When we visited Winter Lights at the UMN Arboretum last weekend we were impressed with the lights on the grounds as we parked… and entered the brightly illuminated and decorated visitor center.
But we weren’t at the real display yet. I later figured out that the key was these were all clear lights… the ‘real’ displays were beautifully colored, creating a dazzling glow.
The lighted arches over the pathway into the gardens behind the visitor center welcome visitors to stunning displays and photo opportunities along every turn. According to the Arboretum, five of the twenty displays feature plants that the University researchers are working on to create plants that will continue to thrive as our climate changes.
We were there on a Sunday evening when it wasn’t too crowded, but even then parking was limited although we found a parking space in their regular lots. They encourage using free SouthWest Transit shuttles every Friday and Saturday… or carpooling whenever possible.
Learn more about Winter Lights here.
- Open Fridays, Saturday and Sundays
- Nov 22, 2019 – Jan 5, 2020
- 5-9 pm
- Open additional days during the holidays
- Dec 23, 26, 30 and Jan 1-2
