1 / 10

Polly Hill Arboretum

4.8

·145 reviews·West Tisbury, United States

A serene 60-acre botanical landmark preserving Martha's Vineyard's natural beauty with diverse trees and seasonal flowers.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Loading map...

Polly Hill Arboretum

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 60-acre botanical landmark preserving Martha's Vineyard's natural beauty with diverse trees and seasonal flowers.

4.8

(145 reviews)

"This place is an island treasure, and the result of the work of a visionary horticulturist."

TIP

Check Opening Dates

Arboretum typically opens in May. Confirm dates before your visit!

Embrace Natural Beauty

Enjoy the preserved pre-colonial landscape; it's a unique historical glimpse.

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 145 reviews

Type

Botanical Garden

Address

809 State Rd, West Tisbury, MA 02575, USA

Website

pollyhillarboretum.org

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monkey Puzzle Tree

Argentina Section

Marvel at the unique, ancient-looking 'Monkey Puzzle' tree, a striking specimen from Argentina.

Historic Sheep Farm Landscape

Throughout the Arboretum

Wander through fields preserved in their pre-colonial state, offering a glimpse into the island's past.

Seasonal Blooms

Various Gardens

Experience the vibrant colors of diverse trees and seasonal flowers, especially stunning in the fall.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Seasonal Beauty & Opening Dates

Polly Hill Arboretum is a seasonal gem, typically opening in May. While beautiful year-round, check their official opening dates before planning your visit, especially if traveling in early spring. The arboretum showcases different blooms and foliage throughout the seasons, making it a unique experience each time.

Embrace the Natural Landscape

The arboretum preserves Martha's Vineyard's pre-colonial landscape, so expect natural fields and woodlands rather than manicured lawns. This offers a unique glimpse into the island's history and ecology. Remember, dogs are not permitted to help maintain this natural environment.

Best Times

When

Fall mornings

Why

Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

Crowd

Low

When

Spring afternoons

Why

Seasonal blooms emerge

Crowd

Medium

When

Summer weekdays

Why

Pleasant weather, fewer visitors

Crowd

Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Another cute nature escape for all! :> there is several trails to walk and explore as well as some ponds and even a nature center and playscape :)) last time I saw an armadillo so be on the lookout ! Admission is free but the parking is $6.50 except on Thursdays when is free :) they hold events here too so I recommend checking their website ! :) as always stay safe ! #nature #naturehike #houstont...

@r8ckst4r

44.6K likes • 320.7K views

Check Opening Dates

Arboretum typically opens in May. Confirm dates before your visit!

Embrace Natural Beauty

Enjoy the preserved pre-colonial landscape; it's a unique historical glimpse.

📍Morris Arboretum & Gardens 100 E Northwestern Ave Philadelphia, PA 19118 i can’t believe i haven’t found this place sooner. definitely the cutest trail in the area! #phillyactivities #morrisarboretum #gardensoftiktok #secretgarden #phillytiktok

@avinomnom

28.7K likes • 327.4K views

Polly Hill Arboretum, Martha's Vineyard✨ Basically a museum of cool trees (the coolest IMO was the “monkey puzzle” from Argentina) but it's also on the National Register of Historic Places because it's the same as it was way back in the day. It was a sheep farm! Polly started her plant-career-life when she was around 50 years old.... you can do anything you want at any time... no rules. She plante...

alainapinto

429 likes • 18.5K views

No Dogs Allowed

To protect the natural environment, leave your furry friends at home.

Affordable Admission

A small fee ($5) grants access to this island treasure.

Another exciting video from @alainapinto - have you checked out Polly Hill Arboretum, on the Vineyard? ✨ Unfortunately it’s not open until May 2024, but is one of our favorite ways to get on Island Time - come see us before you go check it out next season 😇💨 #pollyhill #pollyhillarboretum #arboretum #marthasvineyard #edgartown #vineyardhaven #oakbluffs #chilmark #aquinnah #westtisbury #newengla...

island.time.mv

40 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Opening Dates

Arboretum typically opens in May. Confirm dates before your visit!

Embrace Natural Beauty

Enjoy the preserved pre-colonial landscape; it's a unique historical glimpse.

No Dogs Allowed

To protect the natural environment, leave your furry friends at home.

Affordable Admission

A small fee ($5) grants access to this island treasure.

Plant Sale Finds

Take a piece of the arboretum home from the plant sale near the welcome center.

What Travellers Say

4.8

(145 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Polly Hill Arboretum as a peaceful, calming, and beautiful natural escape on Martha's Vineyard. Many appreciate the affordability, the unique pre-colonial landscape preservation, and the knowledgeable, friendly staff. It's considered a hidden gem for plant lovers and those seeking a serene outdoor experience.

"I love visiting Polly Hill any time I’m on MV. It is such a peaceful, calming place with the kindest staff, and beautiful scenery."

Rachel Maragnano

"Great way to kill an hour or so and enjoy the flora of Martha’s Vineyard. Admission is $5 and provides access to a sizeable area filled with a wide variety of trees and other plants. The fields throughout were keep completely natural due to the wishes of the late founder of the arboretum, so people could see how Martha’s Vineyard looked before colonization and settlement. The staff were friendly and informative, and there’s even a plant sale near the welcome center if you want to take something home."

Ben Roth

"Polly Hill arboretum is gem on MV. A great place to some of the most beautiful trees around the world. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Offers wonderful programs for all ages."

Harnek Singh

What People Like

Peaceful and calming atmosphere

Beautiful natural scenery

Affordable admission fee

What People Dislike

No dogs allowed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Polly Hill Arboretum is located on Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is typically by ferry from mainland Massachusetts. Once on the island, you can reach the arboretum by car, taxi, or local bus service. Parking is available on-site.

Yes, local bus services on Martha's Vineyard often have routes that can get you close to the arboretum. It's advisable to check the current bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

There is parking available at the arboretum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.

The arboretum offers accessible trails and pathways, making it a pleasant experience for most visitors. However, due to its natural landscape, some areas might be uneven.

Absolutely! Polly Hill Arboretum is a wonderful, peaceful stop that can easily be incorporated into a day trip, offering a serene escape and a chance to connect with nature.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Polly Hill Arboretum is typically $5 per person, making it an affordable way to enjoy the island's natural beauty.

Polly Hill Arboretum usually opens for the season in May. It's always best to check their official website for the exact opening dates each year.

Operating hours can vary seasonally. Visitors should consult the official Polly Hill Arboretum website for the most current hours of operation before their visit.

Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the arboretum. It's a straightforward process, and advance booking is usually not required.

While the admission is already very affordable, specific discount policies or free admission days are not widely advertised. It's best to check their website for any special announcements.

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and seasonal flowers, including rare species like the 'Monkey Puzzle' tree from Argentina. The focus is on preserving the island's natural flora.

The arboretum often hosts programs and guided walks, especially during peak seasons. Check their website for event schedules and program offerings.

Yes, Polly Hill Arboretum is a fantastic spot for photography, with its diverse plant life, natural landscapes, and seasonal colors providing beautiful backdrops.

The arboretum intentionally maintains its fields in a natural, pre-colonial state to showcase Martha's Vineyard's original landscape before settlement.

While there are beautiful areas to explore, designated picnic areas are not typically highlighted. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the walking paths and natural beauty.

📸 📸 Photography

The 'Monkey Puzzle' tree offers a unique photographic subject. The natural fields, diverse tree collections, and seasonal flower displays also provide stunning opportunities.

Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with the arboretum directly or consult their visitor guidelines to ensure compliance.

Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' often provide the best light for photography, enhancing the natural beauty and colors of the arboretum.

For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to contact the arboretum in advance to inquire about any specific policies or permit requirements.

The arboretum is ideal for nature photography, landscape shots, and capturing the unique flora. The historical aspect of the preserved landscape also offers interesting photographic narratives.