Maryland Life Magazine recently named Adkins Arboretum the Mid-Shore winner of the “Finest Family Fun” award in the magazine’s “Free State’s Finest” contest. Maryland Life readers decided the winners of the contest, which celebrates excellence around the state. The awards were published in the magazine’s April 2011 issue.

“The Arboretum’s recognition as one of the Free State’s Finest speaks to the great loyalty and support of its many members and visitors,” said Executive Director Ellie Altman. “We are honored to be recognized as a favorite affordable place for families to enjoy the outdoors and grateful to everyone who helps make it possible for Adkins Arboretum to be open every day.”

As one of Caroline County’s most-visited attractions, welcoming more than 20,000 visitors annually, the Arboretum offers year-round conservation-based education programs for children and adults of all ages; a Native Plant Nursery selling ornamental native plants throughout the growing season; indoor and outdoor art installations; five miles of walking and biking paths through forests, meadows, wetlands and gardens; guided, self-guided and audio tours; and family-friendly events throughout the year. The Arboretum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.adkinsarboretum.org or call 410-634-2847.

Adkins Arboretum is a 400-acre native garden and preserve at the headwaters of the Tuckahoe Creek in Caroline County. Open year round, the Arboretum offers educational programs for all ages about nature and gardening. Through its Campaign to Build a Green Legacy, the Arboretum will build a new LEED-certified Arboretum Center and entranceway to broaden educational offerings and research initiatives promoting best practices in conservation and land stewardship. For additional information about Arboretum programs, visit www.adkinsarboretum.org or call 410-634-2847, ext. 0.