Tails on the Trails at The Morton Arboretum 2026

Naperville dog owners, mark your calendars: Sunday, September 13, 2026 brings a tail-wagging highlight to the DuPage County calendar. Tails on the Trails at The Morton Arboretum lets you and your four-legged companion explore 16 miles of scenic trails while browsing a seasonal pet expo on the East Side.

From 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the arboretum transforms into a dog-friendly haven with local vendors, adoption opportunities, and plenty of space to sniff, stroll, and socialize—all within easy reach of downtown Naperville and the Riverwalk.

Why You Can't Miss Tails on the Trails at The Morton Arboretum 2026

This annual event at 4100 Illinois Route 53 in Lisle gives Naperville residents a perfect excuse to load up the car and enjoy one of the region’s most beautiful natural settings with their pups. The Morton Arboretum’s East Side—specifically Meadow Lake and Arbor Court—hosts the pet expo right next to the Visitor Center, making it simple to combine shopping, learning, and trail time.

• Shop dog-focused vendors for treats, gear, grooming supplies, and accessories from local businesses
• Connect with area shelters about adoptions and volunteer opportunities
• Enjoy the arboretum’s trails from a dog’s perspective—16 miles of smells, sights, and fresh air

What to Expect

The pet expo runs 9:00 AM–4:00 PM with vendors and organizations set up in Arbor Court and along the south side of Meadow Lake. Dogs are welcome on the marked trails until sunset, so you can extend your visit beyond the expo hours if you like.

• A list of participating vendors will be posted closer to the date on the official Morton Arboretum site
• Opportunities to learn about training, adoption, and local animal-welfare groups
• Photo-worthy moments amid the arboretum’s beautiful grounds

Rules for a Smooth Visit with Your Dog

The Morton Arboretum keeps things safe and enjoyable for everyone by enforcing clear guidelines on Dog Admission Days.

• Dogs must remain on a leash and attended at all times; stay on marked trails only
• Updated vaccinations and registrations are required
• Clean up after your pet—waste bags are available at the Visitor Center
• Dogs are not permitted in the Children’s Garden, Maze Garden, Visitor Center, Thornhill Educational Center, Administration and Research Center, May T. Watts Reading Garden, or Firefly Pavilion
• Portable restrooms that accommodate dogs are located at multiple parking lots including P-1, P-4, and others

Plan Your Visit

General admission is required for people (members enter free with their card). Dog admission tickets cost $7 per dog or $6 for Arboretum members. Buy online in advance to save $2 on human tickets and guarantee entry.

• Closest parking for the expo is lot P-1 on the East Side
• The arboretum is roughly a 15–20 minute drive from downtown Naperville via IL-53 or I-88
• Service animals are always welcome; notify gatehouse staff upon arrival
• Tickets and full details: https://buy.acmeticketing.com/orders/480/tickets?eventId=65e5e93f6354180243245266&cdEventIds=65e5e93f6354180243245266&date=2026-09-13T00:00:00 or visit mortonarb.org

Whether you’re a longtime Naperville dog parent or visiting DuPage County for the first time, Tails on the Trails offers a relaxed, tail-wagging way to enjoy early fall outdoors. Grab your leash, pack the waste bags and water bowl, and head to The Morton Arboretum on September 13.

Event Details At-A-Glance

• When: Sunday, September 13, 2026, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Where: The Morton Arboretum (Meadow Lake & Arbor Court, East Side)
• Address: 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532, United States
• Admission: $6–$7
• Organizer: The Morton Arboretum
• Tickets / info: Get details

Dates, times, and pricing can change. Confirm the latest details on the official event page before making plans.

Looking for more? Explore other things to do in Naperville or browse the full Naperville events calendar.