About Us
Cultivating connections between people, plants and places. The North Carolina Arboretum is a world-class institution nestled in one of the most botanically diverse natural settings in America.
A Legacy of Conservation
Established in 1986 by the General Assembly as an affiliate of the University of North Carolina System, the Arboretum was founded to serve as a center for education, conservation, and economic development. Our 434-acre campus draws its design inspiration from Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of American landscape architecture.
“We envision a world where people are deeply connected to nature, understanding its value and working collectively to protect and preserve our botanical heritage for generations to come.”
Today, the Arboretum serves more than 600,000 visitors annually, offering extensive garden exhibits, miles of forested trails, and comprehensive educational programs for all ages. We stand as a testament to the region’s rich botanical heritage and a beacon for environmental stewardship.
The Baker Exhibit Center serves as the gateway to the Arboretum’s gardens and trails.
Our Mission in Action
Through world-class horticultural exhibits, comprehensive educational programs, and active conservation efforts, we are dedicated to protecting the biological diversity of the Southern Appalachians while fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world among all our visitors.
Arboretum at a Glance
Size & Scope
434 acres of public gardens and trails
Established
1986 by the NC General Assembly
Annual Visitors
Over 600,000 guests from around the globe
Our Impact
65+
Acres of Cultivated Gardens
10+
Miles of Hiking Trails
20k
Students Reached Annually
100+
Bonsai Specimens
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Adult Education
Continuing education classes in horticulture, art, and natural sciences.
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Exhibitions
Rotating science and art exhibits that explore our connection to nature.
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Volunteer Programs
Join our dedicated team of volunteers and make a difference.
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Open Bids (click title to view pdf)
In its support of economic development, The North Carolina Arboretum posts open bids for services on this page. Bids are in a downloadable PDF format and the closing dates are posted above each PDF icon.
Property Fencing Repair – Bid Advertisement – March 11, 2026
Property Fencing Repair – Project Manual
If you have questions about a posted bid, please email bids@ncarboretum.org.
Experience the Arboretum
Ready to explore our 434 acres of gardens and trails? Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Southern Appalachians.