Located behind the Science Center, EMU's Eden Arboretum is a one-acre plot where ecology, biology education and international agriculture students put textbook learning into action. The second part of the arboretum is Park Woods, a 13-acre partially restored oak-hickory climax forest with mature stands of native trees and understory.

The smaller section of the arboretum contains the Peace Park, plantings of natives, perennials, ground covers, and ornamental grasses that offer alternatives to homeowners and landscapers to the use of turf and lawn chemicals.

The Kansas Garden displays a variety of prairie plants which are suitable for use in drought-prone areas of Virginia, and the Acker Nut Grove is an endowed experimental garden by Ernest Acker for research on native and commercially viable hazelnut varieties in the east.

Adjacent to the Peace Park and Science Center is EMU's greenhouse, another place for hands-on student work, research, and relaxation.