Walter Hunnewell Arboretum

The Walter Hunnewell Arboretum spreads along Lake Waban and displays more than 500 species of woody plants from over 50 botanical families. The grounds combine extensive collections with maintained paths, greenhouses, and lawns that flow around the lake in an organized layout.

H. H. Hunnewell established this horticultural estate in 1843 and brought over 2,000 trees from England in the following years. The family then expanded the property and has maintained it through six generations to the present day.

The grounds feature the first topiary garden in the United States, where Eastern white pine and Eastern arborvitae are shaped into geometric patterns. These sculptured forms represent a European gardening tradition that took root here in the mid-1800s.

The grounds are walkable with marked paths that guide you through different collection areas. Visitors should be prepared for varying terrain, as the property features open lawns alongside wooded sections.

A pinetum was created in 1867 and contains rare conifer species like Torreya nucifera and a weeping Canadian hemlock. This specialized collection displays varieties rarely found elsewhere in New England.

GPS coordinates: 42.28500,-71.30700

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:03