The Dawes Arboretum

Over the weekend Zac and I went to the Dawes Arboretum in Newark, Ohio. I bought him a Groupon in February for Valentine’s and we finally made time to go. The Groupon gave us a one year membership to the arboretum as well as a snazzy little discount to their gift shop. We’ve had a few really busy weekends so we (and the dogs) needed some time away from the hussle of the city.

We parked the car near the gift shop and walked the whole trail from start to finish. Visitors can also drive or cycle to each area of the park on a paved trail, that is separated from the walking trail, called the Auto Tour. The Dawes is spread over 1149 acres and is segmented into different zones that each have their own special attraction. The lake was particularly charming, the giant hedges shaped into the words “Dawes Arboretum”. You can also pay a visit to the Dawes memorial where the founders, their children, and extended family are buried.

The Dawes Arboretum’s mission was passed down from its founders Beman and Bertie Dawes who created the arboretum. They simply dedicated it to “increasing the love and knowledge of trees, history, and the natural world.” Though I normally recommend the state or city parks because of a personal motivation to support Columbus in the creation of upkeep of green spaces I am planning on visiting The Dawes again and again. There is no admission charge but, after you visit, please consider membership. Like all privately owned parks the Dawes runs a membership program that you can learn more about here.

Founded in 1929 the arboretum has become a beautiful must see attraction in the Columbus area that draws people looking for a simple and beautiful escape from the city. Each visit to The Dawes is going to be different and I can’t wait to experience it again and again as the seasons change.