The majority of the grounds were once part of a 44-acre (18 ha) estate known as Rancho Encinal, built for geophysicist Everette Lee DeGolyer and his wife, Nell DeGoyler.

[4] In September 2002, Arboretum facilities were expanded with the opening of the new Visitors Center, named after Dallas developer Trammell Crow.

Built with native Texas limestone and wood and copper sheathing, the structure serves as the gateway to the gardens.

The Margaret Elisabeth Jonsson Color Garden spans 6.5 acres (2.6 ha) and is a horticultural attraction designed by Naud Burnett II.

The garden features seasonal flowers and plants arranged in various beds, creating a visually stunning display.

[6] This two-acre (0.81 ha) garden includes a collection of over 80 varieties of signature Japanese Maples planted along the stream.

Key design elements include an entry off the Paseo de Flores and a gathering plaza that overlooks a re-circulating creek and various waterfalls.

The area also includes a series of paved walkways and a stone bridge connecting the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage to the Magnolia Allee.

Designed by Luis Santana, the path begins at the Trammell Crow Visitor Education Pavilion and concludes near Fogelson Fountain, which was donated by the late Greer Garson in memory of her husband, Buddy.

The central aisle, lined with Italian jardinières, leads down a series of steps toward a grass court surrounded by seasonal plantings.

[12]Nancy's Garden is blanketed by pink crape myrtles and azaleas and is filled seasonally with pastel annual color.

The Bill Dillard Family renovated the plantings and lighting of the area, which included benches as well as the sculpture Thank Heaven for Little Girls by Gary Price.

This natural tunnel leads visitors to the "toad corners" water feature, with two polliwog basins at the Paseo entry.

The Trial Gardens at the Dallas Arboretum were created for the purpose of expanding research efforts and providing information to the public.

The focus of the trial program is to grow and evaluate many different plants in the drastic climate of the Metroplex and North Central Texas.