Explore Oak Lawn
Our Arboretum
A lovingly manicured natural park for all to experience, enjoy, and learn from.
An arboretum is a special place whose mission is to collect trees, shrubs, and woody plants for the benefit of science, conservation, and the public. Based on our extraordinary variety, Oak Lawn carries the unique distinction of being the first cemetery in the state of Connecticut to be honored as an arboretum. Visitors will see many rare indigenous and imported trees, including the stately White Oak, of course, once regarded as a symbol of immortality.
Being an arboretum adds stunning beauty to our peaceful property. It's what sets us apart, and there's no better way to experience Oak Lawn than to walk the trails yourself. Once here, nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to catch a glimpse of many migratory birds. Did we mention we also have a working apiary? We welcome all to take advantage of this unique arboretum. Visit Oak Lawn today and enjoy our trees, birds, and bees.
Tree Tour
Looking to explore the arboretum? Choose from these 3 natural experiences.
Many of our trees have been tagged with botanical signs. They're easy to locate with a copy of our Tree Tour brochure, which outlines the walking tour and includes a helpful map. Green arrows have also been placed along the tour route to direct you. The walking tour is 0.7 miles and can usually be completed within 30 minutes.
Audio Tour
Join in and listen, as we provide a guided audio tour of many of the legacy trees on our grounds. Listeners will also view and learn about the burial plots of local prominent figures.
Tree Tour Brochure
This guide is designed as a self-walking tour of notable Oak Lawn trees. Download a PDF of the brochure or visit our main office during regular hours for a printed copy.
Guided Tours
Looking for a more personalized experience? Occasionally, Oak Lawn will provide a guided walking tour that brings visitors through the arboretum. Find out when our next guided tour is.
Trees of Interest
Explore some of our rare tree specimens recognized in our Arboretum
Birds & Bees
Visiting the arboretum is an opportunity to get an up-close glimpse of nature's creations.
Working Apiary
Oak Lawn Cemetery & Arboretum has enjoyed a long association with The Fairfield Garden Club and the Ogden House, an 18th century saltbox that stands next to the cemetery and is owned by the Fairfield Museum & History Center. This partnership has continued the tradition of conservation and education.
The role of pollinators is recognized as crucial to the ecosystem and our food chain. In response to Honeybee Colony Collapse Disorder, the Fairfield Garden Club created an apiary. This joint project now consists of two apiaries, and the presence of these pollinators help to ensure our productive flower and pollinator gardens. They are maintained by the garden club, and the honey is harvested and jarred by club members, with the assistance of Oak Lawn employees. Buy a jar at The Fairfield Museum!
Bird Watching
In 1898, Mabel Osgood Wright founded the CT Audubon Society. In 1914, with help from Annie Burr Jennings, Osgood Wright created the Birdcraft Sanctuary. Both organizations were the first of their kind. The Birdcraft Sanctuary has since documented over 181 different bird species, earning Oak Lawn the coveted distinction of an Important Bird Area. It remains an educational center and has been designated a National Historic Landmark.
Because of special organizations like these, CT has an active birding community. No doubt, they make Oak Lawn a popular destination. As part of our community outreach, we conduct bird and nature walks led by well-known ornithologists and arborists. Please visit our Article & Events page to see when our next bird and nature walk will take place.
Community Outreach
Oak Lawn’s community outreach centers on inviting the public to engage with our arboretum, dedicated memorials, historical gravesites, and more. We often partner with local organizations such as the Fairfield Garden Club and the Fairfield Museum and History Center, among many others. Oak Lawns hosts guided walks, birding events, and educational activities that connect residents with conservation and local history. Programs like these allow Oak Lawn to strengthen its role as a cultural and environmental resource for the community.
Photo Gallery
A quick glance at our beautiful sanctuary, as it exists today.
