Bayard Cutting Arboretum was donated to the Long Island State Park Region by Mrs. William Bayard Cutting and her daughter, Mrs. Olivia James, in memory of her husband, William Bayard Cutting. The intent of the donation was “to provide an oasis of beauty and quiet for the pleasure, rest and refreshment of those who delight in outdoor beauty; and to bring about a greater appreciation and understanding of the value and importance of informal planting.”
Parking is $8 for the day, or free with an Empire Pass. The former Cutting residence is the main house near parking containing many fireplaces, stained glass windows, woodworking and a small natural history display. There are no pets, no biking, no sports, no games, or swimming.
The Hidden Oak Cafe is located inside the Manor House, offering a varied menu of freshly prepared foods including sandwiches, quiche, soups, pies, and other desserts. They also offer “Victorian Tea” with finger sandwiches, scones, and fresh tea (make reservations 24 hours in advance).
There are 13 distinct walking areas with various collections of trees and gardens. Many of the areas were closed due to COVID and the “Paradise Island Native Woodland” was closed due to an eagle nest. We walked along the “River Walk” which follows a path along the Connetquot River. There were many ospreys flying overhead. You can watch them building nests and catching fish.
If you follow the River Walk past the Paradise Island Native Woodland you will hit the farm and dahlia garden. The CSA Farm is a self- sustaining three acre Community Sponsored Agriculture Farm which started in 2012. Watch the honeybees and smell the herb garden. Visit the chicken coop and watch the chickens scurry about the yard, pecking for worms and insects.
The dahlia garden is beautiful. We watched many bees and butterflies fluttering around the flowers.
The New Pinetum and Pinetum Extension contain furs, spruce and pines as part of a collection of rare shrubs and trees. Walk along the path leading around the conifers and magnolias. Step under the trees and look up through the Blue Atlas Cedars and Blue China Furs.
Check out the Bayard Cutting Arboretum website for the calendar of events. They offer art workshops, cocktail benefits, horticulture internships, school programs, tree workshops, yoga & meditation, tours, adult education, and more.
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