The arboretum was established to demonstrate the feasibility of growing varied ornamental trees on Long Island soil.
The property was formerly the private estate of William Bayard Cutting, a wealthy lawyer and developer.
The mansion, Westwood, was designed by architect Charles C. Haight.
It maintains one of the largest collections of evergreens on Long Island.
The site includes a significant collection of dwarf conifers located near the manor house.
The park is officially designated as a New York State Historic Site.
Bayard Cutting Arboretum is a 691-acre park located on the Connetquot River, originally designed in 1887 by Frederick Law Olmsted. The estate features the Westwood mansion, a notable example of Tudor-style architecture that houses a cafe and seasonal exhibits. The grounds are organized into distinct woodland walks and formal garden areas showcasing a vast collection of conifers and exotic trees. Visitors can explore the park via a network of trails that trace the riverfront and wind through dense, mature tree groves. It is managed by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The arboretum serves as both a site for botanical research and a public recreational space. The property was donated by William Bayard Cutting's family to the state in 1952. The landscape design emphasizes the integration of native Long Island flora with imported specimen trees.
The wide riverfront lawn overlooking the Connetquot River with the manor house in the background.
Bring a pair of binoculars to observe the diverse bird species that inhabit the riverfront woodlands.
Visit the Hidden Pond for a quieter, secluded walking experience away from the main manor house area.
Check the official website for current garden walking tours or botanical workshops scheduled during your visit.
Do not attempt to feed the wildlife, as the park enforces strict policies to protect the natural ecosystem.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive plant specimens; professional photography requires a permit.
