Courtesy of Jim Stewart

Photos courtesy of Jim Stewart

The Arboretum - State Botanical Garden of Kentucky is located on the campus of the University of Kentucky was created in 1991 as a joint effort between the University of Kentucky and the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government. In March 2000, The Arboretum was named the “Official State Botanical Garden for the Commonwealth of Kentucky”.

 The Arboretum is set upon 100 acres of that was intended to serve as a community center for environmental education, horticulture, and for urban forest renewal. The Arboretum celebrates the ideals of fostering an understanding of relationships between humans and their natural world.

Visit the Official Web Site of the Arboretum


500 Alumni Drive
Lexington, KY 40503
Between Nicholasville & Tates Creek Rd. [map]

Lot parking is available on either side of the Arboretum on Alumni Drive. We suggest parking on the West side of the Arboretum in front of the Greg Page Apartments. From Tates Creek Rd: pass the main entrance to the Arboretum and take the next left onto Commonwealth Drive. From Nicholasville Rd: turn right onto Commonwealth Drive immediately across from Commonwealth Stadium. [map]

General admission ticket holders should bring their own blankets and chairs to be placed in designated areas. Reserved blanket area ticket holders should also bring their own blankets to place over the provided tarp. Chairs are provided for reserved chair ticketholders.
We are located in a beautiful open field surrounded by forest, gardens, and a walking path. Concessions are available and patrons are encouraged to bring their own picnic dinners and snacks. Alcohol is permitted but not sold within the festival. Guests should consider bringing sunscreen and bug spray.