Arboretums are for Everyone Whether you have a deep admiration for the great outdoors, want to inspire an appreciation for nature, or you just need socially distancing alternatives during a pandemic, the many arboretums in South Korea are fun for people of all ages. They are often free or have affordable admission rates. Additionally, each arboretum is unique. How to Prepare for an Arboretum Visit To truly appreciate the distinctive characteristics of the arboretums in South Korea, I would recommend bringing comfortable shoes, drinking water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen, and, of course, your camera. Make sure you do not leave any trash behind. Some of these arboretums have insect repellent dispensers, if you see one, they’re usually free for use. The arboretums may not have printed maps, so take a picture of the map at the entrance, just in case. Entrance Fees Some of the arboretums in South Korea may be either publicly or privately owned. Also, the majority of the arboretums will have a fee between 2,000 and 15,000 won per person depending. You can contact 1330 to confirm the entrance fees. Pets Arboretums do not usually allow pets, however, you can confirm the pet policy of each arboretum by contacting 1330. They will confrim the pet policy for the arboretums you wish to visit. 7 Wonderful Arboretums in South Korea These are seven arboretums I personally enjoy visiting. There are many other arboretums as this list includes my personal favorites and is not comprehensive of all of Korea.T Yeonginsan Natural Forest (less than 30 minutes from Humphreys) Just over a 5k hike with a stream, waterfall pond, gardens, grassy areas for the kids, and gorgeous mountain views. Yeonginsan National Forest also has a sports area with a water park, basketball, volleyball, and badminton courts. You need to bring your own supplies but you may rent a net. Campgrounds and zipline, too! Samseonsan Arboretum (45 minutes from Humphreys) Samseonsan Arboretum has he expansive, mountainous hike which you can do barefoot. Walk around barefoot as most of the mountain trails are “carpeted.” There are also foot-rinsing spots. Your kids will also love this location because there are a variety of playgrounds here for kids of all ages and climbing levels. While there are many picnic spots, you won’t really find any restaurants or cafes in this arboretum. Challipo Arboretum (Mallipo Botanical Gardens) (1.5 hr drive from Humphreys) The South of Seoul app refers to Challipo Arboretum Mallipo Botanical Gardens. With Challipo Beach on one side, pampas grass, flower gardens, and a pond, this arboretum is perfect for romantic and meditative walks. Not a lot for the kids but there is a children’s garden with swings and Hobbit holes. However, the fascinating piece of history for this location is that it was founded by a U.S. expatriate who was later naturalized as a Korean citizen. There’s a cafe and shop at the entrance and another cafe along the walk. This location may be best paired with another activity in the area as it’s not as large as some of the other arboretums. Cheongsan Arboretum (about 1.5 hrs from Humphreys) As a popular filming location for KDramas, if you love taking Instagram-able pics, this is the arboretum for you. From pampas grass, the Millet Art Garden, to the flower maze, you’ll definitely find an amazing shot. The restaurant is currently closed because of the pandemic, but there is a cafe. Food is not allowed in this arboretum. However, small dogs (under 5kg) are welcome. Anmyeondo Island Arboretum (just under 2 hr drive from Humphreys) Recommended for couples or those who need time for self-healing and meditative thought. Expansive hike through a pine forest. Many photo zones and a variety of trails. Greenhouse, flower gardens, fish ponds, grassy areas for the kids who like to run, and a Dinosaur landscape area. Sejong National Arboretum (2hr drive from Humphreys) Expansive garden with a large conservatory. We spent hours just walking around the greenhouse, including getting lunch at the restaurant and drinks at two of their cafes. The greenhouse also has rotating art exhibits and a coloring station. For example, one season it was decorated with an Alice in Wonderland theme and another year there was a light fantasy exhibit. This location is more of a full-day experience and, since there’s food on location, it’s easy to enjoy the day here. Additionally, there are large, grassy areas for kids who love to run. Deokpyeong Dinosaur Arboretum (2 hr drive from Humphreys) Expansive garden but be prepared for a few uphill walks while you’re surrounded by creatures from another time, possibly another world. If the dinosaurs aren’t engaging enough, there’s also a petting zoo, playground, waterfall, and greenhouse. In addition, there’s a restaurant and shop at the entrance and a cafe further in. The cafe has an amazing view so be sure to stop there. Join the Pyeongtaek Travelers Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Travelers. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly travelers (most of who live in Pyeongtaek, South Korea) sharing their adventures across the country. Volunteer with South of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. LeaDan Yee, M.EdLeaDan Yee holds a Master’s in Education with a focus in Secondary Education and Teaching – Language Arts and Bachelor’s in Psychology, with a minor in Speech. As a Cultural Liaison and Content Creator at South of Seoul, Ms. Yee focuses on creating content for families interested in traveling and those with toddlers.  She is especially interested in opportunities to share her Native Hawaiian background and empower others to be cultural ambassadors. Prior to joining South of Seoul, LeaDan worked as a High School Speech Teacher and Adjunct Communications Professor. She specializes in Public Speaking, Argumentation and Debate, Team Management, and Event Planning.