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One of the best-kept secrets in Milledgeville is Lockerly Arboretum, a 50-acre property one mile south of our historic downtown. There are a plethora of ways to explore this museum of trees, and you may just find your new favorite escape.
Know before you go: The grounds are free to enter and are open to the public Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and from 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. on Saturday from March 1st to November 15th.
The arboretum, a botanical garden of trees, was founded by Mr. Edward Grassman who owned a large Kaolin mining operation in the neighboring town of Sandersville, Georgia, among other investments across the United States. Grassman was interested in experiential horticulture and botanicals rather than an immaculate garden. The Lockerly Arboretum Foundation was created in 1965 in an effort to create a plan for the longevity of the property.
1. Enjoy a Picnic on the Property
Whether you prefer a secluded spot on the 50-acre property or a table by the pond, Lockerly Arboretum offers the perfect setting for a peaceful picnic. Spread out a blanket in the meadow overlooking the water, or settle in at a shaded table while enjoying takeout from a local restaurant or a packed meal. As you dine, take in the sights and sounds of nature, from birds flying overhead to the gentle rustle of the breeze.
2. Look at the Seasonal Plants
Throughout the year, Lockerly Arboretum’s landscape transforms with each season, bringing fresh beauty to its gardens. In winter, camellias bloom in vibrant shades, adding color to the cooler months. Spring welcomes an abundance of new growth, with azaleas creating a striking display. As autumn arrives, the sweet fragrance of tea olives fills the air. Year-round varieties and greenhouse collections further enrich the ever-changing landscape. Explore the full range of plant collections on the Lockerly Arboretum website.
3. Admire Rose Hill
At the forefront of the property stands Rose Hill, a stunning home built in 1853 by Daniel Reece Tucker after a fire destroyed the original wooden structure of the same name. This Greek Revival and Georgian-style house features prominent columns, a central hallway floor plan, and symmetrical details that showcase its architectural beauty. Guided tours of Rose Hill are available on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with tickets priced at $5 per person.
4. Stop in the Woods Museum
The Woods Museum, located near the trail loop, is a former tenant house just right of Rose Hill. It features exhibits on native and non-native reptiles, a massive cross-cut slab from a 300-year-old Bald Cypress, and displays on 13 hardwood trees. Reggie, an American Alligator, and Teedo, a Ball Python, call the museum home. On Tuesdays and Saturdays starting in March, kids can join half-hour sessions to learn about and meet the reptiles.
5. Take a Scenic Walk
As temperatures start to drop, outdoor walks become more attractive and the mile loop through the property has excellent scenery with multiple collections of plants identified with markers. The Ann King Native Plant Garden, displays over 50 species of native shrubs and trees. This collection serves as an educational opportunity to explore many key naturally occurring plants in our region. Part of the loop is through a forested area and the trees provide an ample amount of shade.
6. Attend an Event at Lockerly Arboretum
Lockerly hosts a variety of events each year, with some of the most anticipated happening in the spring. On April 25th and 26th, the annual Plant Sale invites guests to browse a diverse selection of plants, from vibrant daylilies and elegant Japanese maples to lush camellias and more. New for 2025, Lockerly is introducing Deep Dive, a thought-provoking series of book talks and speaker events exploring history, nature, and human psychology.
7. Look for Native Wildlife
A variety of wildlife calls the Lockerly property home. You will surely see a variety of birds, reptiles and insects that live in the forest. There are also catfish in the pond at the beginning of the main trail, and Koi fish in the Koi pond at the front of Rose Hill that you can catch a glimpse of. You can also see a variety of insects or evidence of them. The end of summer is the best time to find empty unique cicada shells in the forest that have been left behind. Visitors can also join weekly Nature Rambles to learn about the plants and wildlife blooming and thriving at Lockerly, guided by an expert.
8. Bring Your Furry Friend
Your favorite furry friend is also welcome at Lockerly on a hike through the beautiful shady woods. Your dog will be busy sniffing all of their flowering shrubs such as camellias and azaleas, and a variety of trees including oaks, magnolias and an expansive Pinetum collection hosting a range of plants from the common Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) to ornamental conifers like the Coastal Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens). This collection offers a year-round worldly display of color and diversity. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash and clean up as though you were never there.
9. Find a Quiet Spot to work
Lockerly Arboretum offers a peaceful retreat for remote workers and college students seeking a refreshing place to work or study. With shaded picnic tables, quiet garden paths, and scenic views, it’s an ideal setting to focus and recharge. The natural surroundings create a calm atmosphere, perfect for reading, writing, or tackling assignments. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape from campus or a change of pace from your usual workspace, Lockerly provides a beautiful and inspiring environment to stay productive.
Whether you're exploring the trails, admiring the gardens, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the pond, Lockerly Arboretum offers a refreshing escape into nature. With its blend of history, beauty, and peaceful spaces, it’s a destination that invites visitors to slow down and soak in the surroundings.
