Beginning March 1. 2026, the parking fee at The North Carolina Arboretum is changing to $25 per vehicle.
Changes to the parking fee at the Arboretum are generally reviewed every two years by the Arboretum’s Board of Directors. This review is intended to ensure that the costs of operating the Arboretum and offering exceptional programming are reflected in revenues from the parking fee.
The previous review was delayed by two years due to COVID-19, before being implemented in 2023. Then in 2025, another review was postponed in recognition of the community-wide economic impacts of Hurricane Helene.
With the Arboretum’s continued expansion of programming and the increased challenges of property maintenance following Helene, the Board has approved a change in the gate fee for one-time visitors to $25 for a personal vehicle effective March 1.
Membership rates remain unchanged, and visitation is still possible using a Zoom pass through local library branches.
On the first Tuesday of every month, the Arboretum also offers $10 off personal vehicle parking.
The North Carolina Arboretum is grateful for all of the guests and members that make it possible for it to offer a connection with the natural world and distinctive events and educational programs.