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The University of Alabama Arboretum: A Natural Escape

Discover Alabama's natural beauty at the University of Alabama Arboretum: walking trails, diverse gardens, and tranquil woodlands await!

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The University of Alabama Arboretum, a 60-acre haven established in 1958, offers a tranquil escape with walking trails showcasing Alabama's native flora and fauna. Visitors can explore diverse gardens, greenhouses, and natural woodlands, all free of charge.

A brief summary to The University of Alabama Arboretum

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails, which range from easy to moderate.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited water fountains along the trails.
  • Check the Arboretum's website for upcoming events, plant sales, and workshops.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for the best weather and to see the wildflowers in bloom or the fall foliage.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The University of Alabama Arboretum is located at 4801 Arboretum Way, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404. From the University of Alabama campus, head east on 15th Street/Veterans Memorial Parkway. Turn right onto Pelham Loop Road, and the Arboretum entrance will be on your right. The main visitor parking lot is located uphill from the pavilion. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    The Tuscaloosa Transit Authority provides bus service in the city. Check the Tuscaloosa Transit Authority website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules to determine the closest bus stop to the Arboretum. A fixed route fare is $1 for adults. From the bus stop, you may need to walk or take a taxi/rideshare to reach the Arboretum entrance.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From the University of Alabama campus or downtown Tuscaloosa, taxi and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. A 5-mile taxi ride in Tuscaloosa would cost approximately $19. The ride to the Arboretum from the University of Alabama is approximately 4 miles. Expect to pay around $15-$20 for a one-way trip, depending on demand.

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Discover more about The University of Alabama Arboretum

The University of Alabama Arboretum, a 60-acre sanctuary near the intersection of Veterans Memorial Parkway and Pelham Loop Road in Tuscaloosa, has been a cherished part of the University and the Tuscaloosa communities for over 50 years. Established in 1958, the Arboretum's primary emphasis is on Alabama’s native flora and fauna, offering unique opportunities for teaching, research, and outreach. The Arboretum features 2.5 miles of walking trails through native piney woods and oak-hickory climax forest. A wildflower garden displays more than 250 species, alongside collections of ornamental plants and an experimental garden. Explore a bog garden, an open-air pavilion, and a children's garden. Two greenhouses house collections of orchids, cacti, and tropical plants. The Arboretum is part of the University of Alabama Museums, which also include the Alabama Museum of Natural History, Gorgas House, Moundville Archaeological Museum, the Office of Archaeological Research, and Paul W. Bryant Museum. It serves as a vital resource for botanical education, research, and the appreciation of Alabama's natural heritage. The Arboretum is also part of a national network that shares plant information with scientists, students, and the public. Whether you're a student, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the University of Alabama Arboretum offers a refreshing escape into the beauty of the natural world.

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