The Dawes Arboretum
Dawes Arboretum
A large tree arboretum near Newark, best known for its Japanese garden, rhododendron valley, and a giant 'DAWES ARBORETUM' sign formed from hedges.
Dawes Arboretum lies south of Newark. It was founded in 1929 by Beman and Bertie Dawes and covers roughly 800 hectares with more than 10,000 trees. Its signature feature is a sign spelling out 'DAWES ARBORETUM' in hedges, about 600 meters long, which is best seen from the observation tower. Other highlights include a Japanese garden, a rhododendron valley, a bald cypress swamp, and a 6-km loop drive around the grounds. Spring blooms and autumn foliage are at their finest. Admission is free, though some activities are charged. Visitors can drive the loop and park at various points to explore on foot. It is about 45 minutes from Columbus and is often combined with a day trip to the Newark Earthworks.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:00 until sunset
Nearby sights
- Newark Earthworks
- Inniswood Metro Gardens
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Topiary Park
- Columbus Museum of Art
- Ohio History Center & Ohio Village
- German Village
- Ohio Statehouse