Are you looking for the ultimate outdoor adventure? Discover Mother Nature like never before at The Holden Arboretum. The enchanted forest is host to a canopy walk, fragrant gardens, a 120-foot tall tower, and so much more. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Northeast Ohio with a trip to this one-of-a-kind arboretum.
For even more recommendations on things to do and what to see on the shores of Lake Erie, be sure to access our complimentary Vacation Guide. The exclusive, on-the-go guide is the perfect source for planning your next getaway!
Everything You Need to Know About The Holden Arboretum
If you’re ready to get off the water and into the woods, The Holden Arboretum is the place for you. See the lake like never before from the treetops and learn the history of Ohio’s oldest inhabitants. What are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your next adventure.
Murch Canopy Walk and Kalberer Emergent Tower
Stroll over treetops with a canopy walk and soar above the clouds at the observation tower of Kalberer Emergent Tower. The swaying canopy walk is 500-feet long and 65-feet above the forest floor. Discover all of the furry friends that call these old, oak trees home and enjoy an exclusive bird watch from the top of the tower.
You’ll want to pick a sunny day to explore the treetops at Holden’s canopy walk and emergent tower. When it’s clear, visitors can see all the to Lake Erie. If you don’t see anything else at the arboretum, don’t miss these exceptional sights.
The Gardens
- The arboretum has a dedicated 200 acres to its gardens. After coming through Corning Visitor Center, Arlene and Arthur S. Holden Jr. Butterfly Garden is your first stop. The garden is buzzing with hummingbirds, bumblebees, and of course, colorful butterflies.
- The nine-acre Display Garden is a fully sustainable, four-season garden. The gardens are essentially flawless and are hand-pruned and maintained. Bring your walking shoes and be sure to take your time searching for waterfowl on Lotus Pond and taking in the scents of the lilacs.
- There are two Rhododendron gardens onsite—the Eliot and Linda Paine Discovery Garden and the Helen S. Layer Garden. Both offer immersive experiences with Ohio’s native plant.
- If you’ve already explored the tops of the forest, get on the ground with the Henry Norweb Jr. Tree Allée. Escape the heat in the shade of the evergreens and listen to the songs of the robins. This is one of Holden’s newest exhibits and is nearly untouched by the outside.
- The Myrtle S. Holden Wildflower Garden is just that—a garden brimming with Ohio’s most primitive and beautiful wildflowers. The garden has been in existence since 1968 and has bloomed to full blossom since then. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the state.
Buckeye Bud’s Adventure Woods
Buckeye Bud’s is a spot for your children to discover nature on their own terms. Build a log shelter, work through the obstacle course, or act out their favorite movie at the woodland theater. The play area even provides a smaller observation tower which overlooks Buttonbush Bog. It’s the perfect spot to spy on the turtles, frogs, lizards, and fish.
Rest Your Feet at The Lakehouse Inn Resort
After a day of exploring at The Holden Arboretum, you’ll be ready to kick your shoes off and unwind in the comforts of The Lakehouse Inn. Stay in some of the lake’s most tranquil accommodations, the Lake Erie Suite. The suite is completely surrounded by lake views and boasts a king-size bed, sitting room, and two-person whirlpool tub.
Get your vacation off on the right foot with a local cheese board and a bottle of house-made wine. Enjoy it on our large, lakeside patio and enjoy views that only The Lakehouse Inn can offer. We can’t wait to indulge you!