The estate was the former residence of William Robertson Coe, an insurance magnate, and Mai Rogers Coe, an heiress.
The interior of Coe Hall features hand-carved wood panels and stained glass windows created by artisan Everett Shinn.
The grounds include a rare 'Synoptic Garden' designed to display a wide variety of plant species for educational identification.
The arboretum collection includes over 600 species of camellias, one of the largest such collections in the northeast.
Many of the original specimen trees on the property were planted during the estate's construction in the early 20th century.
The property contains several 'hidden' landscape features, including a lime walk and a sunken Italian garden.
Planting Fields Arboretum is a 409-acre former Gold Coast estate located on the North Shore of Long Island. The site features the Coe Hall mansion, a Tudor Revival residence designed by Walker & Gillette. The grounds were landscaped by the Olmsted Brothers firm, sons of the designer of Central Park. The property houses extensive formal gardens, including a synoptic garden, dahlia garden, and heather garden. Two large greenhouse complexes, the Main Greenhouse and the Camellia Greenhouse, contain significant botanical collections. The estate is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore various woodland paths and open lawns throughout the park. The site serves as both a public arboretum and a center for cultural and educational events.
The reflecting pool in front of the southern facade of Coe Hall.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the extensive woodland trails and uneven garden paths.
Check the official website for current garden blooming schedules to time your visit with specific floral peaks.
Bring a portable chair or blanket if you intend to spend time in the open lawn areas.
Do not attempt to explore all 409 acres in a single visit without a map, as the estate is significantly larger than a standard local park.
The mansion interior may have limited access during specific restoration periods or private events.
Visitors are prohibited from picking flowers or climbing trees; professional photography requires a permit.
