Arboretum

The Carleen Bright Arboretum, affectionately known as the “Jewel of Woodway,” is a 16-acre botanical haven located in Woodway, TX, just a short drive southwest from Baylor University. This arboretum is a tribute to Baylor alumna and community leader Carleen Bright and offers a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy nature’s beauty.

Features of the Carleen Bright Arboretum:

– Botanical Gardens: Nearly half of the arboretum’s acreage is developed into stunning botanical gardens, featuring a variety of plant species and beautifully curated landscapes.

– Monarch Waystation: The arboretum is a certified Monarch Waystation, providing a habitat for monarch butterflies during their migration, complete with milkweeds, nectar sources, and shelter.

– Meditation and Demonstration Gardens: Visitors can find solace in the meditation garden or gain insights from the two McLennan County Master Gardener demonstration gardens, which include an award-winning cactus garden, an impressive herb garden, and gorgeous roses.

– Todd Willis Nature Trail: This trail winds through native woodlands and is suitable for explorers of all ages, leading to a teahouse with views of an active creek from a wooden gazebo.

– Water Features: The arboretum boasts a koi pond and fountains, adding to the serene atmosphere and visual appeal.

– Whitehall Center: Serving as the Whitehall Tourist & Community Center, this replica of the first church that serviced the Woodway area is nestled among the gardens and serves as a welcoming point for visitors.

– Pavilion Event Center: A state-of-the-art 10,000 square foot venue, the Pavilion Event Center is surrounded by the arboretum’s grounds and is designed to bring the outdoors inside with large windows. It is a premier destination for weddings, private parties, and corporate events with a capacity of 350 guests.

– Grandy Gazebo & Event Lawn: This outdoor event location offers historic charm and scenic views, perfect for ceremonies and lavish affairs, with a capacity of 300 guests.

– Massey Meditation Grove: A dedicated space for reflection and connection, the Massey Meditation Grove invites visitors to unplug and reconnect with nature, their thoughts, or a higher power.

The Carleen Bright Arboretum is not only a place of natural beauty but also a hub for community events, including the monthly Woodway Farmer’s Market and Acoustic Night. It is a popular location for weddings and other events, thanks to its natural beauty and the Pavilion Event Center.

The arboretum’s grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk, with the Whitehall Visitors Center open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. It is a place where visitors can enjoy a spiritual communion with nature, surrounded by the lush greenery of pecan trees and live oaks.