A unique Boulder resource, Andrews Arboretum was established in 1948 by Maud Reed, a former botany teacher at Boulder High School.

Miss Reed used the open land as an outdoor classroom for several years and persuaded the school district to purchase it shortly before her retirement. At her request, the arboretum was named after Darwin M. Andrews, an internationally recognized horticulturist from Boulder. The arboretum was acquired by the City of Boulder Parks and Recreation Department in 1989 and is managed by the Parks Division.

Today, the Andrews Arboretum provides a peaceful haven of green in the heart of the city. Thoughtfully crafted combinations of plants surround the visitor: native evergreens, cultivated shrubs, groundcovers, exotic trees and more. A stroll down the arboretum’s central path provides a diverse display of plant life and a relaxing lunch at one of the quiet seating areas is a welcome reprieve during the workday.