Named after the first dean of the Bowling Green State University Firelands college, the James H. McBride Arboretum covers 50 flowing acres at the Bowling Green State University Firelands Campus and features a variety of ever changing formal and ornamental gardens. Highlights feature over 300 species of trees, including a vast collection of over 52 varieties of crabapple trees brilliantly blooming in May. A paved pathway surrounds William J. Parker Lake which supports resident swans and is a stopover for migratory birds. Walkways lead to the Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden and Winter Garden. The Mary Sue Memorial Labyrinth for peaceful meditation is at the north end of the arboretum.

The Deering Terrace, an uncovered, multi-leveled deck on the south edge of the two-acre Parker Lake, and an open air pavilion are available by reservation. They are ideal for weddings, meetings, or other gatherings. There are no provisions for picnicking in the arboretum.

Open daily, year-round, 8 am to dusk, the arboretum has about 3 miles of paved natural surfaced trails leading around the waters edge and flower gardens and through Sawmill Creek Woods. Parking is in adjacent campus parking areas. Restrooms and drinking water are available on site. Restrooms, located off of Boos Road, are available seasonally. Admission to the arboretum is free, and guided horticultural tours can be arranged. Pets are not permitted with the arboretum.

McBride Arboretum was created in 1984.