Photo: University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum
Photo: M affina
Photo: Steve Hou
University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum
★4.8(2,266 reviews)FreeAdventure
🕑 1.5 to 3 hours👶 Best for ages 2 and up. Toddlers enjoy the gentle paved paths and open meadows for exploring, while elementary-aged kids love hiking the more challenging trails and discovering wildlife. Teens appreciate the scenic overlooks and peaceful natural settings perfect for photography or sketching.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
The University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum offers 123 acres of natural beauty perfect for families who love outdoor exploration. Kids can hike winding trails through diverse landscapes, discover native Michigan plants and flowers, and enjoy wide open spaces for running and playing. The free admission and variety of trail options make it an ideal destination for families with different ages and energy levels.
Highlights
- ✓Over 3 miles of scenic hiking trails suitable for various skill levels
- ✓The famous Peony Garden with hundreds of blooming varieties in late spring
- ✓Huron River overlooks with beautiful views and photo opportunities
- ✓Wide open meadows perfect for picnics and playing
- ✓Diverse plant collections and native Michigan ecosystems to explore
Pro Tips
- 1.Park at the Geddes Avenue entrance for easiest access with strollers and young children, as the paths are more level there.
- 2.Visit the Peony Garden in late May to early June for a spectacular floral display that kids find magical.
- 3.Bring a nature journal and colored pencils so kids can sketch leaves, flowers, and interesting finds along the trails.
- 4.Download a trail map before you go, as cell service can be spotty in some areas of the arboretum.
- 5.Pack bug spray during summer months, especially if you plan to explore near the Huron River areas.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (8:00 AM to 10:00 AM) for the quietest experience and best wildlife spotting opportunities. Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and stunning seasonal changes that keep kids engaged.
What to Know
Admission and parking are completely free. There are no food vendors on site, so pack snacks and water. Restroom facilities are limited, so plan bathroom breaks before arriving.
Seasonal Notes
The arboretum is open year-round, but spring (for wildflowers and peonies) and fall (for colorful foliage) are the most spectacular seasons. Winter visits offer peaceful snowy landscapes, but trails can be icy. The Peony Garden peaks in late May through early June.
Nearby Eats
Head to Madras Masala (1415 S University Ave) for family-friendly Indian cuisine with mild options for kids, or visit Zingerman's Roadhouse (2501 Jackson Ave) for classic American comfort food including a great kids menu with burgers and mac and cheese.
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