Planting Fields Arboretum
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park is one of Long Island’s most magnificent public gardens and historic estates, located in Oyster Bay. Spread across over 400 acres of rolling lawns, rare trees, greenhouses, and historic architecture, Planting Fields blends the legacy of Long Island’s Gold Coast era with world-class horticulture and welcoming parkland for all to enjoy.
History & Origins
Planting Fields dates back to the early 20th century:
- The estate was developed by William Robertson Coe, a prominent insurance and railroad executive, and his wife, Mai Rogers Coe, heiress to a Standard Oil fortune.
- Originally purchased in 1913 as a country retreat, the Coes transformed the property into a grand horticultural showcase, inspired by England’s great estates.
The Coe Hall Mansion
At the heart of Planting Fields stands Coe Hall:
- Built between 1918 and 1921, this Tudor Revival mansion is a marvel of period architecture, with ornate interiors, medieval-inspired halls, and rooms filled with historic furnishings and art.
- Guided tours and exhibits introduce visitors to the lives of the Coe family and the opulent world of Long Island’s Gold Coast.
Gardens & Collections
Planting Fields is renowned for its extraordinary horticultural displays:
- Formal Gardens: The Italian Garden, Cloister Garden, and Synoptic Garden boast vibrant seasonal color, classic design, and rare plantings.
- Greenhouses: The historic Main Greenhouse (Camellia House), one of the largest collections of camellias in the Northeast, alongside extensive tropical, cactus, and orchid collections.
- Woodlands & Arboretum: Stately specimen trees, azaleas, rhododendrons, and miles of wooded paths give Planting Fields a park-like atmosphere perfect for exploring in any season.
Events & Community Programs
Planting Fields serves as a living classroom and cultural center:
- Seasonal Events: Popular happenings include spring and holiday festivals, outdoor concerts, and horticulture classes.
- Educational Initiatives: Programs for all ages focus on gardening, botany, and environmental stewardship, including school visits and family workshops.
- Art & Music: Coe Hall hosts changing art exhibitions and performances, connecting the estate’s history with contemporary creativity.
Visitor Information
Located at 1395 Planting Fields Road in Oyster Bay, Planting Fields Arboretum is open year-round:
- Facilities include picnic areas, walking trails, visitor center, gift shop, and accessible restrooms.
- Grounds and gardens offer beauty in all seasons, from winter’s camellias to spring bulbs, summer roses, and brilliant autumn foliage.
- Admission fees support preservation and educational activities.
Planting Fields Arboretum Quick Info
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 409 acres |
| Established | 1913 (estate); 1949 (state park) |
| Landmark | Coe Hall, Tudor Revival mansion |
| Gardens | Italian Garden, Cloister Garden, Camellia House & greenhouses |
| Notable Collections | Rare trees, camellias, orchids, tropicals, rhododendrons |
| Location | 1395 Planting Fields Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771 |
| Programs | Tours, classes, concerts, art exhibits, school field trips |
| Fun Fact | Planting Fields boasts one of the largest collections of camellias in the Northeast |
Experience Planting Fields
Whether you’re a garden lover, history enthusiast, or just seeking a scenic spot to relax, Planting Fields Arboretum offers something for everyone. Wander through colorful borders, explore the stately rooms of Coe Hall, and enjoy a tranquil retreat surrounded by the living legacy of Long Island’s Gold Coast.
