Located near Putah Creek Lodge and overlooking the newly enhanced Arboretum Waterway, a once-forgotten boathouse is making waves again—but this time, not with canoes. 

Originally built in the 1960s to store boats for student recreation, the structure has been reborn as the Waterway Education Pavilion, a shaded place to pause, take in the view, and learn about two of the Arboretum and Public Garden’s signature initiatives: Learning by Leading™ and the multi-phase Arboretum Waterway Flood Protection and Habitat Enhancement Project.

Inside, recently installed interpretive signs tell stories of transformation—from reintroducing water flow to the once-stagnant channel, to restoring wetland habitat and empowering students to lead climate-resilient change. 

Visitors can get a quick download on the work of Waterway Stewardship interns, how habitat is being shaped for native wildlife like Western pond turtles and Sacramento blackfish, and even why a little algae might be a good thing.

It’s also a great spot to simply rest. Catch some shade, soak up the sounds of birds and water, and reflect on how far this place—and the people caring for it—have come.

Find it near Putah Creek Lodge in the UC Davis Arboretum.