Boone County Arboretum Autumn Nature & Tree Discovery for Families

About this adventure

Located within Central Park in Union, Kentucky, the Boone County Arboretum spans 121 beautifully manicured acres and holds the distinction of being the first arboretum in the nation designed within an active public recreation park. Home to more than 3,600 labeled trees and woody shrubs, the arboretum serves as a living museum where families can discover botanical species from around the world. Over Thanksgiving week, visitors can stroll along the 2.2-mile paved walking trail that winds through themed plant collections, perennial gardens, and native wetland boardwalks. Educational labels invite kids to compare leaf shapes, bark textures, and colorful autumn seed pods. Adjacent park grounds feature expansive children's playgrounds and open ballfields. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: The entire 2.2-mile main walking loop is paved with smooth asphalt, completely free of stairs, and wide enough for side-by-side family pushchairs and wagons. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Clean, heated public restrooms with baby changing counters are conveniently located at the Central Park visitor plaza and arboretum trailheads. • Age Suitability: All ages. The paved path makes walking effortless for toddlers, while older kids enjoy identifying botanical species and racing along the playground equipment. • Sensory Tips: Peaceful suburban greenway atmosphere with birdsong, rustling autumn foliage, and aromatic pine groves. Bench seating is provided at regular intervals along the trail.