Press Release
TYLER ARBORETUM ANNOUNCES MORE “FRESH AIR” HOURS STARTING MARCH 1
Media, PA (February 11, 2021) – Tyler Arboretum will open daily at 8:00am and remain open until 6:00pm on weekdays, 8:00pm Saturdays and Sundays from March 1 through October 31. The change represents an additional 16 hours per week compared to past summer seasons.
More “fresh air” hours will provide extended time for members, volunteers and the public to enjoy the collections and landscapes unique to Tyler Arboretum and expand activities that inspire stewardship of the natural world. The arboretum’s Executive Director, Mandy Santiago, explained, “We’ve seen a surge in visitors and interest in our online programming during the pandemic, but we recognized that not everyone could make it to Tyler during our traditional opening hours. Between increased screen time and the amount of time we are spending in our homes, we wanted the peace and presence of our natural landscapes to be more accessible. Tyler is a wonderful place to come get fresh air, exercise and learn while enjoying the restorative power of nature in a COVID-safe environment.”
2020 was a tough year for many in our community and signified a time of profound change. According to Santiago, “At Tyler, we were forced to close completely for 6 weeks last spring – during what would have been our peak season. The pandemic led to the cancellation of in-person events and summer camp, and the arboretum was forced to furlough staff.” In the midst of challenge, there was also hope.
Thanks to the generosity of members and donors Tyler Arboretum has been able to navigate the pandemic, rehire its team, and resume operations. “As a small nonprofit, Tyler relies on admission and membership fees, donations, and grant funding. Over the past year, the support from our community has been tremendous,” says Board President Heather Saunders. “More people than ever are coming to walk in the woods, enjoy the gardens, or take a socially-distanced stroll with a friend.”
The bright side of the pandemic is this reconnection many have made to nature and there is science to back up the benefit. According to an article by Sian Beilock in Forbes Magazine, “multiple studies have found that interacting with nature enhances wellbeing and elevates cognitive performance.” Sian calls this reconnection to the natural world “greening our brain”. These extended hours were created to give more opportunity for our community to get out and enjoy all the natural world has to offer at Tyler.
About Tyler Arboretum
Located west of the Borough of Media, in Middletown Township, John J. Tyler Arboretum traces its history as a Quaker family farm back to an original land grant by William Penn in 1681. Today, the arboretum comprises 100 acres of landscaped gardens and historical buildings, as well as an additional 550 acres of natural areas. Visitors of all ages can enjoy renowned horticultural collections, seasonal exhibits such as our treehouses, Lucille’s Garden, Butterfly House, magnificent heritage trees, and 17 miles of hiking trails. The arboretum’s website, www.tylerarboretum.org/calendar, provides details on upcoming events, educational opportunities, volunteer activities, and membership.
Tyler Arboretum:
Mandy Santiago, Executive Director
610-566-9134, ext. 207
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