The Frelinghuysen Arboretum

Nestled in the heart of Morristown, New Jersey, The Frelinghuysen Arboretum stands as a true gem, a sprawling 127-acre botanical garden that offers a serene escape and a vibrant hub for horticultural education and appreciation. This beautifully maintained public arboretum, once the private summer estate of George and Sara Frelinghuysen, invites visitors to immerse themselves in a world of natural beauty. With its diverse collections of trees and shrubs, exquisite formal gardens, tranquil woodlands, and expansive meadows, it's a place where every visit offers something new to discover. Locals consistently praise its immaculate grounds, charming historic mansion, and magnificent floral displays, making it a highly recommended destination for anyone seeking peace, inspiration, or simply a beautiful day out in New Jersey. The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is not just a collection of plants; it's a living museum, a community resource, and a testament to the enduring beauty of nature right here in Morris County.

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is conveniently located at 353 E Hanover Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA. Its central New Jersey location makes it easily accessible for residents across the state and beyond. For those arriving by car, ample parking is available on-site.

One of the notable aspects of The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is its commitment to accessibility. The areas around the Joseph F. Haggerty Education Center and the historic Mansion are wheelchair accessible, encompassing many of the main gardens and scenic spots. The Haggerty Center itself features ramp access and an elevator, ensuring that educational programs and events are open to everyone. While some of the more rustic trails further afield may have uneven terrain and elevation changes, the core areas around the main buildings offer paved paths and cut curbs at crossing points, making them comfortable for strollers and wheelchairs alike. This dedication to inclusivity means that individuals of all mobility levels can enjoy the stunning beauty and tranquility of the arboretum.

• Horticultural Education Programs: The Arboretum is a regional center for horticultural activities, offering a wide array of educational programs for all ages, from gardening classes for adults to engaging workshops and camps for children.
• Special Tours: Guided tours of the gardens are available, providing insights into the diverse plant collections and the history of the estate. Self-guided cellphone tours are also offered seasonally for independent exploration.
• Group Tours: Organized group tours can be arranged for a tailored experience, perfect for garden clubs, school groups, or other organizations.
• Event Hosting: The Frelinghuysen Arboretum provides stunning settings for a variety of special events, including weddings, engagement parties, bridal showers, and corporate gatherings. Options range from lush garden spaces to the elegant Auditorium at the Haggerty Education Center and the charming Matilda's Cottage. A large tent area is also reservable for events.
• Photography Sessions: The picturesque landscapes and diverse gardens make the arboretum an ideal backdrop for professional and personal photography sessions, from wedding photos to family portraits.
• Picnic Areas: Visitors are welcome to enjoy picnics on the manicured Great Lawn or at designated picnic areas equipped with tables and benches.
• Community Garden: The Arboretum supports a community garden, fostering local engagement in horticulture.
• Horticulture Therapy Programs: Customizable horticulture therapy programs are offered, utilizing the healing power of plants and nature. Raised beds are available for wheelchair accessibility in the therapy garden.
• Comprehensive Botanical Literature Collection: The arboretum houses a valuable collection of botanical literature for enthusiasts and researchers.

• Diverse Plant Collections: The arboretum boasts nearly 2,000 specimen trees and plantings, encompassing over 3,200 different species of flowering plants and trees. These include thematic collections like ornamental grasses, spring-blooming shrubs and perennials, and a significant conifer collection known as the Pinetum.
• Formal Gardens: Explore a variety of meticulously designed formal gardens, each with its unique character. Highlights include:
  • The Classic Geometric Rose Garden: Featuring fragrant English, Shrub, and Climbing Roses, with peak blooms in early June and continuous color until frost. It also includes a Wisteria-covered arbor and a soothing clamshell wall fountain.
  • Craig Garden: An elegant outdoor room with an arch entry and a pond with four fountains, perfect for relaxation or intimate ceremonies.
  • Margaret O'Neil Knot Garden: A classic interwoven design of plants located directly outside the Craig Garden.
  • Anne D'Olier Klippstein's Blue Garden: Showcasing herbaceous plants and bulbs with beautiful blue flowers, offering depth to the landscape.
  • Mary Lindner Cottage Garden: Adjacent to Matilda's Cottage, this garden features a rich combination of woody, perennial, and annual flowering and foliage plants designed to provide layers of color from May/June until frost.
  • Gravel Garden and Crevice Gardens: Unique areas demonstrating drought-tolerant planting techniques.
  • The All-American Garden: Marking the entry into the Haggerty Center, this garden features a seasonally appropriate display of annuals, tropicals, and bulbs, updated yearly.
  • Larry Barkman Vegetable Garden: A functional and educational vegetable garden.
• Historic Mansion: The magnificent Colonial Revival mansion, built in 1891, serves as the centerpiece of the arboretum, offering a glimpse into late Victorian-era Morristown and providing a stunning backdrop to the gardens.
• Woodlands and Meadows: Beyond the formal gardens, visitors can explore serene woodlands and expansive meadows, offering peaceful walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
• Walking Trails: Numerous paved and unpaved trails wind through the property, including a Braille Nature Trail in a small wooded hollow designed for hands-on exploration. The Patriots' Path, a network of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, also links to the arboretum.
• Joseph F. Haggerty Education Center: This modern facility houses educational exhibits and workshops, serving as a hub for horticultural learning and community events.

While general admission to The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is free, there are various special events, workshops, and membership opportunities that offer unique experiences and benefits.

• Annual Plant Sale: The Friends of The Frelinghuysen Arboretum host an annual plant sale, typically in early May, offering a vast selection of houseplants, annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees. Members often receive early shopping access, refreshments, and special plant dividends.
• Horticultural Workshops and Classes: Throughout the year, the arboretum offers a schedule of paid workshops and classes on various gardening and horticultural topics, catering to different skill levels. Examples include pruning workshops, floral design, and specialized plant care.
• Seasonal Events: Look out for themed seasonal events such as "Fairy Day" for families, holiday celebrations, and outdoor concerts on the Great Lawn during warmer months. These events often have a per-person or per-activity fee.
• Friends of The Frelinghuysen Arboretum Membership: Becoming a member of the Friends organization provides numerous benefits, including:
  • Discounts at various retail partners: Members can enjoy discounts (typically 10-15%) at a wide range of local garden centers, nurseries, and even some restaurants in New Jersey.
  • Exclusive access to member-only events and previews.
  • Borrowing privileges from the arboretum's botanical library.
  • Support for the arboretum's ongoing maintenance and educational programs.

It is always recommended to check the official Morris County Park Commission website or the Friends of The Frelinghuysen Arboretum website for the most up-to-date information on upcoming events, workshops, and membership details.

Address: 353 E Hanover Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA

Phone: (973) 326-7601

Mobile Phone: +1 973-326-7601

For residents of New Jersey, The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is more than just a public garden; it’s a cherished community asset. Its suitability for locals stems from a variety of factors, making it an ideal destination for diverse interests and needs. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for an enriching outing, or simply seeking a tranquil escape from the daily grind, the arboretum delivers. The consistently positive reviews from visitors underscore its appeal, highlighting its pristine condition, spacious grounds, and the calming atmosphere it provides.

One of the most significant advantages for locals is the arboretum's accessibility and free admission. This makes it an effortless choice for spontaneous visits, leisurely afternoon strolls, or a peaceful picnic amidst stunning scenery. The expansive, well-maintained grounds offer ample space for relaxation, and as many visitors note, it's perfect for a family or friends gathering. The picturesque settings, including the grand mansion and the diverse gardens, are also frequently cited as ideal for special occasions and photography, offering a beautiful backdrop without having to travel far from home.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Frelinghuysen Arboretum serves as a valuable educational resource. Its numerous horticultural programs, workshops, and guided tours provide unparalleled opportunities for learning about plants, gardening, and environmental conservation, catering to both seasoned gardeners and curious beginners. The commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone in the community, regardless of age or physical ability, can partake in these enriching experiences. From children’s camps to adult classes, the arboretum actively fosters a deeper connection to the natural world.

Furthermore, the arboretum's vibrant calendar of events, including plant sales and seasonal celebrations, creates a dynamic environment that encourages repeat visits and strengthens community ties. The existence of the Friends of The Frelinghuysen Arboretum further exemplifies its local suitability, providing avenues for engagement, volunteering, and supporting this vital green space. In essence, The Frelinghuysen Arboretum offers a unique blend of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and community spirit, making it an indispensable and highly recommended destination for everyone in the New Jersey region.

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum

353 E Hanover Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA