Chatham Arboretum

Chatham University’s Shadyside Campus is one of the most idyllic locations in the City of Pittsburgh. The campus dates to 1869, and includes elements of the original Andrew Mellon estate.

Chatham Arboretum

A best-kept secret in Pittsburgh

What many visitors to our campus don’t know is that it is home to a 32-acre arboretum. Featuring more than 115 different varieties of trees, including Japanese flowering crabapple, river birch, Kentucky coffeetree, and eleven species of maple, the Arboretum is an inviting place to stroll or to meditate. Being such a unique resource, it provides an outdoor classroom suitable for any age or interest—from younger students on class trips, to visiting scientists, to the university’s own students.

In 1997, Chatham joined the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta (AABGA), now known as the American Public Garden Association (APGA). 2017 marks the twentieth anniversary of our arboretum gaining this designation. The APGA is the association for North American public gardens and their professional staff. Its mission is to serve and strengthen public gardens throughout North America by supporting and promoting their work, value, and achievements in horticultural display, education, research, and plant conservation. Chatham is honored to be a member, as we hope we can showcase our campus for its unique history and beauty to an even wider audience. The Arboretum is part of the Pittsburgh Garden Trail. 

Download the Tree Guide and Walking Map

Hours

Monday thru Friday: 9:00am to 7:00pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00am to 5:00pm

Admission

The Chatham Arboretum is free and open to the public.

Group Tours

  • Motor coach parking available — Please contact prior to visit
  • Guided tours are available — Please contact prior to visit
  • Food services are available

Amenities

  • Universal parking spaces
  • Universal and transgender restroom facilities available
  • Assistive devices/accommodations for hearing and vision impaired are available — Please contact prior to visit
Redbrick academic buildings on Chatham University's Shadyside campus are framed by colorful budding trees and green grass.

What Can an Arboretum Do for You?

What is an arboretum, anyway? Simply put, an arboretum is designated space for trees and other plants to be cultivated for scientific and educational purposes. Chatham’s Shadyside Campus was designated an arboretum in 1998, and since then, has received the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree Campus USA designation for seven consecutive years.

Read the Story : Slide 1 - What Can an Arboretum Do for You?