Donald E. Davis Arboretum: A Native Plant Sanctuary
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at Auburn University's Donald E. Davis Arboretum, a free, 13.5-acre sanctuary of native plants and ecosystems.
Nestled on the Auburn University campus, the Donald E. Davis Arboretum offers a serene escape into the natural beauty of Alabama. Established in 1963, this 13.5-acre arboretum is dedicated to preserving and displaying the native plant life of the Southeast. It serves as a living museum, outdoor classroom, and conservation center, inviting visitors to explore the region's diverse flora. The arboretum features a variety of themed gardens and natural habitats, each showcasing a unique aspect of the region's botanical treasures. Explore collections of oaks, carnivorous plants, and native azaleas. Wander through representations of Alabama's coastal dunes, blackbelt prairies, longleaf pine savannas, and pitcher plant bogs. The Arboretum's oak collection contains all 39 of Alabama's oak species plus two more from Tennessee and Arkansas. More than a mile of interwoven walking trails meander through the arboretum, providing access to its diverse plant collections. The Arboretum also serves as a testing ground for sustainable practices and offers a self-guided tour on stormwater management. The Donald E. Davis Arboretum is open 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset and admission is free.
Local tips
- Visit during the spring to witness the vibrant display of native azaleas in full bloom.
- Pick up a brochure at the Davis Arboretum Pavilion for a self-guided tour of the plant collections and sustainable stormwater management practices.
- Check the Auburn University event calendar for seasonal events like plant sales, workshops, and family-friendly activities.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the arboretum's mile of trails, and bring water, especially during warmer months.
A brief summary to Donald E. Davis Arboretum
- 181 Garden Dr, Auburn, Alabama, 36849, US
- +1334-844-5770
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
- Thursday 6 am-7 pm
- Friday 6 am-7 pm
- Saturday 6 am-7 pm
- Sunday 6 am-7 pm
Getting There
-
Walking
From the heart of Auburn University's campus, such as the Student Center or Samford Hall, the Donald E. Davis Arboretum is easily accessible by foot. Head east along Roosevelt Drive, then turn right onto Garden Drive. The arboretum entrance will be on your left, a short walk from the intersection. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking to the arboretum.
-
Public Transport
The Auburn University transit system provides several bus routes that stop near the arboretum. Check the university's Tiger Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Disembark at a stop along Roosevelt Drive or near the intersection of Roosevelt Drive and Garden Drive. From there, it's a short walk to the arboretum entrance. Bus transit is free.
-
Driving
The Donald E. Davis Arboretum is located at 181 Garden Dr, Auburn, AL 36849. Parking is available near the entrances on three sides: Along Lem Morrison and the Poultry Science parking lot, along Garden Drive and in the Arboretum parking lot off Garden Drive. During the week you must have an Auburn University parking hangtag or a visitor permit from the AU Parking Service to use these spaces. Parking passes are not required on weekends and holidays.
