Ranger conducts a tour of the grounds at Frederick Law Olmstead National Historic Site
The grounds of Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site are open daily from dawn to dusk for self exploration. However, for those who want to learn more about Olmsted and his landscaping philosophy, Rangers lead 30-minute Cultural Landscape Tours of the grounds on Fridays and Saturdays from April through December. For the latest schedule, be sure to check the National Park Service’s official Operating Hours and Seasons web page for the park.
When the National Park Service took over the Olmstead property in 1979, the place was a mess. A swimming pool had been installed on the south lawn, and vegetation had been growing unchecked for years. With the aid of photographs and design plans that still existed, during the early 1990s the landscape was restored to its 1930s appearance, including the removal of the swimming pool. By the 1930s, all construction of additional office space had ceased, so by re-creating the landscape of this time period, none of the buildings had to be torn down.
The Hollow, Frederick Law Olmsted’s secret garden, Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site
The landscaping is atypical of residential landscaping, which is usually garden-like. Olmstead was trying to recreate the natural look of a forest, so while much of the vegetation appears unruly, this is done on purpose. His idea was to create an experience of walking in the woods, not walking in an urban area or residential neighborhood.
Walking path through the Olmsted grounds at Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site
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Last updated on June 3, 2026
