The Arboretumat Gustavus Adolphus College
The Arboretum provides an enriching environment to educate the mind, revive the spirit, and delight in Minnesota's natural history for both the Gustavus and surrounding Saint Peter communities. As a member driven nonprofit, the Arboretum strives to engage students of all ages, provide opportunities for learning and growth, and inspire interest in and appreciation for the natural world.
Visit the Arboretum
Explore the abundant gardens, natural spaces, and miles of walking trails. The Arboretum is comprised of the three major vegetation communities found throughout Minnesota - the coniferous forest, the tallgrass prairie, and the deciduous forest - in addition to formal gardens and hardy trees from around the world surrounding the Melva Lind Interpretive Center. We invite you to walk the Arboretum trails, experience its special beauty, and enjoy this unique campus sanctuary.
Arboretum Grounds: Free and open to the public during daylight hours all year.
Melva Lind Interpretive Center: Weekdays, 8 am - 5 pm and by appointment.
Learn more to plan your visit.
Arboretum Events and Activities
The Arboretum hosts events throughout the year for Gustavus students, employees, and the wider community. The largest event, is the annual Fall Fest in October happening during Family Weekend. Please take a look through our "Year in Review" for some of the great photos that were taken throughout 2024.
Reservations and Rentals
The Arboretum grounds and Melva Lind Interpretive Center are available for reservations and rental for on-campus and off-campus groups. The indoor and outdoor spaces are a wonderful location for meetings, receptions, family gatherings, weddings, or other private events. Learn more and request a reservation.
Membership
Join Friends of the Arboretum or renew your membership here.
Volunteer in the Arb
Keeping the Arboretum beautiful takes many volunteers. We have a wonderful group of community members and Gustavus students who volunteer in a wide range of time commitments and tasks. LEARN MORE