Did you know that when you stroll through the 80+ acres of The Arboretum State Botanical Garden, you're also exploring the seven physiographic regions of Kentucky?

Yep, this isn't your ordinary walk in the park. Here, you're treated to 60 different species of grasses, shrubs, trees, and wildflowers thanks to a concept called Walk Across Kentucky.

The wild native plants were first introduced in 1991, and today, there are over 2,500 trees + shrubs representing different ecosystems across the state. Let's go explore.

The Knobs Region

As you enter The Arboretum through the main entrance at Alumni Drive, you will drive through the Eastern and Western Knobs. Species you'll see:

Tulip trees
Coffeetree
Bald cypress

Cumberland Mountains

While this is the smallest region featured, there is no shortage of foliage with 95+ trees per acre. Species you'll see:

Native grasses
Wildflowers
Magnolia trees

Appalachian Plateau Region

As it does in its real geography, this region borders the Cumberland Mountains in Eastern Kentucky. You won't want to miss the Appalachian wet-woods or the azalea trail. Species you'll see:

Single-flowered hawthorn
Red-chokeberry
Large-flowered raspberry

Find serenity in nature in the heart of UK's campus. | Photo by LEXtoday

Bluegrass Region

One of the largest in the park, this region features large slabs of limestone + various oak trees. Species you'll see:

Prickly pear cactus
False aloe
Native cane

Shawnee Hills

If you love bright colors, check out this region's four-acre wildflower meadow or bop around the sandstone boulders. Species you'll see:

Bluebells
Strawberry bush
False indigo

Mississippi Embayment

Here, you'll find unique flora, as well as a constructed wetland with a boardwalk, island, and pool. Species you'll see:

Water locust
Water tupelo
Wildlife like turtles + ducks

Pennyrile

This region's tallgrass prairie ecosystem makes it a haven for numerous birds + insects seeking shelter and food. Species you'll see:

Carolina buckthorn
Persimmon tree
Sugarberry tree