Leila Arboretum Society

Leila Arboretum Society offers 72 acres of beautiful gardens and natural spaces perfect for getting kids outdoors and exploring nature. With free admission, excellent walking trails, a playground, and sprawling picnic areas, it's an ideal spot for families to enjoy fresh air while children discover seasonal blooms, trees, and wildlife in a safe, accessible environment.

• ✓Well-maintained playground perfect for burning energy between garden walks
• ✓Miles of walking trails ranging from paved paths to natural woodland trails
• ✓Seasonal flower displays that change throughout the year
• ✓Wide open spaces ideal for running, playing catch, or flying kites
• ✓Educational opportunities to learn about native Michigan plants and trees

1. 1.Bring a nature scavenger hunt checklist to keep kids engaged while exploring the different garden sections and tree varieties.
2. 2.Pack a picnic lunch and use one of the many picnic areas. The playground is centrally located, making it easy to eat and play.
3. 3.Visit early in the morning (right when gates open at 6:00 AM) for peaceful trails and possible wildlife sightings that excite young nature lovers.
4. 4.Wear comfortable walking shoes as the 72 acres offer plenty of ground to cover, and bring a wagon for tired little legs.
5. 5.Download a tree or plant identification app before your visit to turn your walk into an educational adventure.

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most spectacular displays with blooming flowers and colorful foliage. Weekday mornings are less crowded than weekends, and the cooler morning temperatures make for more comfortable exploration with active kids.

Admission is completely free, making this an excellent budget-friendly family outing. The arboretum has accessible paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, though some natural trails may be uneven. Bring your own snacks and drinks as there are no food vendors on site.

Open year-round with gates open 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Spring brings tulips and flowering trees, summer offers lush greenery, fall showcases beautiful foliage, and winter provides peaceful snowy landscapes (dress warmly and check for icy conditions). Some garden areas may look sparse in winter months.

Head to Arcadia Brewing Company (about 5 minutes away) for craft root beer and kid-friendly pub fare, or visit Clara's on the River for casual American dining with a kids menu in a unique train station setting.