Walk or cycle one of the many trails adjacent to the forest in the North Carolina Arboretum. Attend an exhibit or plant show and admire the natural surroundings of this stunning public garden. View an art show at the Baker Exhibit Center, where displays rotate year-round. At the Education Center, artists and crafters demonstrate the region’s cultural and craft traditions. Catch plant shows at the arboretum on a seasonal basis.
Join a guided trail walk, with trained volunteers leading small groups along the woodland trails. Learn about flora identification, wildflowers and the history of the North Carolina Arboretum. Take in the beauty on your own with a cell phone tour getting information at multiple tour stops throughout the main garden area. These trails are suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels and provide great views of the surrounding wilderness.
Admire the arboretum's impressive bonsai trees. Established in 1992, the collection includes about 100 specimens on display. View the American and non-native hollies in the Cliff and Betty Dickinson Holly Garden. See the ornamental patterns in the Quilt Garden, an arrangement of flowers reflecting quilt designs of the southern Appalachian region.
Explore the Heritage Garden, a demonstration garden for plants used in basketry, dye making and broom making. Distance learning classes offer training in natural dye making.
Browse the Connections Gallery and gift shop, located in the Baker Exhibit Center. Find a selection of high-quality arts and crafts relating to the changing exhibits. Buy a gift for a friend or find something for yourself in the diverse selection of prints, artworks, postcards and other North Carolina Arboretum memorabilia.
The arboretum is located within the Bent Creek Experimental Forest of the Pisgah National Forest. Entry to the arboretum is free, though some parking fees apply. Opening and closing times, exhibits and plant shows vary depending on the time of the year so check the official website when planning a visit.
Enjoy local and organic dining options at the North Carolina Arboretum’s café, located in the Education Center. Plan a very special Green Wedding at the arboretum’s facilities.
