Welcoming the changing of seasons at the Dallas Arboretum; photo by Vicki Baker
Vicki Baker
As the days of summer faded away and cooler weather set in, the gardens at the Dallas Arboretum were transformed with wonderful fall colors of deep red, yellow, purple and orange. The moment Road Runners stepped into the botanical garden we knew we were in for a treat in this breathtaking location.
The botanical garden, built on the DeGolyer Estate, opened in 1984 encompassing 66 acres of mature trees, annual and perennial borders alongside sweeping lawns and water in the form of sculptures, falls, streams and formal ponds all bordering a small lake. And every fall the Arboretum pulls out all the stops with deep, rich color, in-season plants and plenty of pumpkins, squashes and assorted gourds.
During fall the pumpkins were out, and it became a magical place. We walked leisurely among fall blooming flowers including chrysanthemums, salvia, coleus, ornamental grasses and impatiens. The highlight of the gardens was the Pumpkin Village created with more than 75,000 pumpkins, gourds and squashes.
Some of us lunched on the outdoor patio at the DeGolyer Estate under the shade of an umbrella. The patio overlooked gardens and the shore of White Rock Lake. The gentle sound of music was played by the nearby pianist, which added to the tranquility.
But as with any great beginning the day came to an end. We were astonished to see such beauty in the middle of the city, and this provided the perfect respite for our often busy and hurried lives. For more information on upcoming trips with Road Runners, visit our website at www.rrrrclub.com.