Peony Bloom

W.E. Upjohn Peony Garden At Nichols Arboretum

Late May Through Early June - 1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI​

With nearly 800 plants and more than 10,000 blooms at peak, the Peony Garden features 350 heirloom varieties dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. Shades of pink, red, and white fill the garden, each flower a piece of the garden’s long history.

Plan Your Peony Day

Morning: Coffee & a Bite

Head into downtown Ann Arbor for a cozy café stop. Whether you’re craving a flaky pastry, a hearty brunch, or just a really good cup of coffee, you’ll find plenty of welcoming spots to settle in and recharge. Find a Breakfast Spot. 

Mid-Morning: Wander the Peony Garden

Take your time strolling the garden paths, pausing for photos, and breathing in that light floral fragrance. Venture beyond the peonies for a quiet walk along the Huron River or up the rolling trails, there’s a peaceful rhythm to the Arb that invites you to linger. Explore the Arb. 

Afternoon: Shop, Stroll & Discover

Spend the afternoon exploring our downtown districts. Stop into Kerrytown Market & Shops, where local character shines. Browse indie bookstores, peek into art galleries, and wander through Nickels Arcade for unique finds and local goods. Browse our Shops. 

Mid-Afternoon Treat

No spring day is complete without something sweet. Grab an ice cream at Michigan Creamery or a refreshing drink and take it to-go—perfect for a sunny stroll or a quick park stop. Browse our Sweet Treats. 

Evening: Dinner & Drinks

As the day winds down, settle in for dinner at one of Ann Arbor’s many restaurants, whether you’re in the mood for global flavors, elevated comfort food, or something a little unexpected. Browse our Restaurants. 

Cap it off with a cocktail or local craft brew. Patio season is in full swing, and there’s something special about toasting the day as the evening light settles in. Browse out Bars & Breweries. 

Know Before You Go

Where to Park?

There is limited parking available at U-M lot M-28 on Washington Heights, after 5 pm weekdays, and all day on Sundays. In front of The Arb, Washington Heights and Observatory Street have metered street parking. Throughout Ann Arbor, street meters are available with a charge from 8 am-6 pm Monday through Saturday.  

Is there a Shuttle? 

There is FREE weekend shuttle service available on May 23 & 24, May 30 & 31, and June 6 & 7, 2026! It will be picking up visitors at Mitchell Field, 1900 Fuller Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, and running about every 15 minutes from 10 AM-5 PM.

Can I walk? 

Pedestrians from both the U-M Hospital and U-M Central Campus can reach the Arboretum’s Washington Heights entrance by using the sidewalks along East Medical Center Drive.

Please note that the Geddes Avenue entrance to the Arb (designated by wrought iron gates with the letters “UM” is about a 15 minute walk from the Peony Garden. 

What To Bring?

Charge your phone, bring sunscreen and maybe some bug spray, and wear your comfiest walking shoes! And do not forget your wallet for all that shopping and dining after your day at The Arb. 

Looking for more in Ann Arbor? We have got you covered! Check out our outdoor recreation, food + drink, and shopping pages.