Walking Trails & Arboretum
Discover the trees, gardens, and natural life of the Museum’s seven-acre campus, and learn about plans for new walking trails and arboretum accreditation.
Master Plan
A five-phase plan to re-envision the museum campus
Bringing new life to the campus
The goal of the Master Plan is to make the campus more accessible and vibrant for many community activities – from lively festivals to family picnics and contemplative walks.
In September 2025, we opened Willow Grove Cultural Commons, the centerpiece of the Master Plan’s first phase. This 1,800-square-foot addition provides vital free and low-cost rehearsal and program space for our cultural heritage partners and an outdoor amphitheater.
The Cultural Landscape Plan
View the Cultural Landscape Plan (opens in a new tab)
Preliminary trail plan
The Cultural Landscape Plan, the next phase of the Master Plan, will provide new opportunities for recreation, innovative outdoor installations, and more ways to connect with nature right through the museum’s arboretum.
The plan includes a .75-mile loop of walking trails, environmentally sensitive landscaping, improved parking and traffic flow, and functional outdoor artwork.
Explore the campus projects
Functional Art
The Museum’s functional art initiative connects artistic expression with everyday use, creating new ways to gather, rest, and interact with the campus.
Bring the plan to life through naming opportunities
Forest Trail
Two natural-surface loops through the protected forest behind the Museum.
Stepping-Stone Path
A path along the eastern boundary, connecting a full loop around the grounds.
Lawn Trail
A scenic mulch trail beside Bentley Road, near the parking area and art barn.
Outdoor Amphitheater
Audience seating for outdoor performances on Warner Williams Plaza.
Pocket Garden
TAKENA native-plant garden outside Willow Grove Cultural Commons.
The museum has secured public grants for some of this work, but community philanthropic support will be essential to its successful completion. To discuss current opportunities to support the plan, contact Patrick Salami, Director of Development, or call (301) 774-0022 ext. 110.