Welcome Center
The Dawes Arboretum is breaking ground on a new $17 million Welcome Center in 2026.
This project was fully funded by The Arboretum's endowment, trustees and staff.
Please note, all artist renderings of the Welcome Center are conceptual and subject to change.
Expanded Amenities
The Welcome Center will provide expanded amenities for every visitor to enjoy.
It will have triple the amount of restrooms available in the current Visitors Center, a 50% increase in retail space, a fireplace, a quick food service area and a casual seating area. It will have an expansive deck overlooking the Japanese Garden, perfect for relaxing during a visit at The Arboretum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the designer of this project?
The designer of this project is MA Design.
When is Dawes breaking ground on this project?
Dawes will be breaking ground on the Welcome Center in late summer or early fall of 2026.
How long is the project going to take?
This project is estimated to take 18-24 months to complete.
What will happen to the current Visitors Center?
The current Visitors Center will be reimagined as a Discovery Center with educational and programming opportunities.
What will happen to the plants and trees that surround the area of the Welcome Center?
The Dawes Arboretum is committed to keeping as many trees as possible. Any large trees that must be removed are being salvaged for building materials. For the plants that need to be moved, they will be transplanted to different areas on the grounds.
What were Beman and Bertie’s thoughts about admission?
Beman Dawes never commented directly about admission. To learn more about why The Dawes Arboretums started charging admission, please visit here.
How is this being funded?
This project was funded through staff, trustees and The Arboretum’s endowment that was created by Beman and Bertie Dawes.
Are community tax dollars or state funding being used to fund this project?
No community tax dollars or state funding are being used to fund this project. This project is fully funded from The Arboretum's staff, trustees and endowment. Dawes is investing in Dawes for the benefit of the public.