University of Illinois Arboretum

Waffles Edited 5 months ago

I visited the University of Illinois Arboretum while exploring the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus and really enjoyed the experience. The arboretum is beautiful and spacious, with plenty of open areas to walk around, relax, and take in nature. It’s a peaceful escape from busier parts of campus, and there are multiple spots that feel great for slowing down and just enjoying the surroundings. I also loved that Japan House is nearby—it adds to the overall experience and makes the area feel even more special. I visited expecting to see more flowers in bloom, but learned from the signage that most planting begins after the last frost (mid-May), with peak blooms lasting until the fall. Given the recent weather fluctuations, it made sense why things weren’t fully in bloom yet. Even so, it was still a great place to walk around, and I noticed several photography sessions happening, which speaks to how visually appealing the space is. Parking is available via nearby street parking and a lot, but it’s worth noting that it’s only free on weekends—permits are required during the week. Overall, this is a lovely spot to visit, especially if you’re already on campus or looking

Ashley a year ago

This place is an absolute gem and one of the many reasons CU is lucky to have yhe university! I love to come here and escape into nature. I don't have a car and getting away from the noise of cars is hard even at Crystal Lake, but here? I can't hear cars in the gardens.

Sarah Jaarsma a year ago

Beautiful gardens. Much of it currently under construction, but still lovely and makes for a wonderful walk. The Master Gardener section is truly a work of art

Priya Sathya Moorthi 2 years ago

Arborettum is an amazing green expanse where you can take lungfulls of fresh pure oxygen. With huge trees and green manicured lawns, it is a good place to break the monotony of the day. You can choose to stretch your legs and take a walk, lie down on the grass and look up at the blue sky, sit under a tree, gaze at turtles in the pond, explore Japan house and enjoy a tea ceremony. Japan house was closed for summer so we missed that part. A quiet green place to be enjoyed. The place is vast so please make sure not to get lost. It is just green all around as far as the eyes can see. We went in the afternoon, so not sure if the place is lit at night. Make sure to wear good shoes to walk around and explore comfortably.

Tamra Parker Edited a year ago

The arboretum is amazing. Beautifully done and cared for. It is constantly changing with the work the students do there. The Japan House and the grounds surrounding it are tranquil, beautiful, and amazing. There are quiet walking trails and ponds with snapping turtles and koi. There are many places to sit in the grass or on benches to enjoy the day. It is a true treasure.