Whether here for an event or just enjoying an evening walk, or a day trip with the family, Leila Arboretum has so many attractions! Stoll through the paths and enjoy the beautiful landscaping or simply sit on one of the many benches throughout the Arboretum listening to the sounds of nature. Whatever your reason for visiting, we are glad you are here!
Miss Iva Doty Native Wildflower Garden
Miss Iva Doty grew up in Battle Creek in the early 1900s with a passion for nature and wildflowers. Her dream was to provide support for a native wildflower garden on the ground of the Arboretum for generations to enjoy. In 2001, this dream became a reality.
All of the plants in this garden are native to the Great Lakes Basin and began growing long before European settlers arrived. Native plants are low maintenance and provide food and shelter for local wildlife. Because they are so well suited to their locale, native plants are extremely hardy and look great in a traditional garden or in natural settings.
Labyrinth
Designed by Brett Myers in the summer of 2001, the Peace Labyrinth is set in a hillside to the left as you enter the Arboretum and is available for individuals or groups to gather for a time of spiritual unity or exploration. Guided events can also be arranged.
The Labyrinth consists of perennial plantings along the path including daffodils, glory of the snow, biokovo geranium, ceasar’s brother siberian iris, little bunny fountain grass, soapwort, falduglut sedum, tricolor sedum, wooly thyme, baby sister siberian iris baby’s breath, and sedum.
Disc Golf
Leila Arboretum’s disc golf course is an 18 hole course.
Established in 2013, the over 7500 feet course goes through the hilly and wooded Arboretum to provide fun for disc golfers of all skill levels. Learn more.
Kaleidoscope Garden
The Kaleidoscope Garden is a 1.5 acre enclosed garden and pavilion designed specifically for our younger enthusiasts. A variety of educational programs are offered within the Kaleidoscope Garden as well as a perfect location for corporate and family picnics, birthday parties and weddings. Hours of Operation: 9-5 Weekdays, June – October
Fantasy Forest
The Fantasy Forest is a mythical area of the Leila Arboretum that is filled with wizards, castles, dragons, and other creatures. Carved from tree trunks, these 25 carvings were transformed into works of art in 2015 and 2016 from 100 year old ash trees that were killed by the Emerald Ash Borer insect.
Visitors to the Fantasy Forest can enjoy these unique sculptures daily from dawn to dusk. The Fantasy Forest is also host to our annual Chainsaw Carving Festival each fall as well as other outdoor events. Thousands of visitors from all across the United States have been able to enjoy this FREE Sculpture Garden.
