Plan a Visit
Accessibility
ADA paths, wheelchair loans at front desk
Pets
Leashed dogs welcome on trails, not in buildings
Parking Fee
$25/vehicle
Directions
20 Frederick Law Olmsted Way Asheville, NC 28806-9315
I-26 W to Exit 33, NC 191 S to Blue Ridge Parkway
Hours
8 AM – 7 PM (Apr–Oct)
8 AM – 5 PM (Nov–Mar)
Why Visit The Arboretum?
Guided Tours
Expert-led exploration of our 434-acre public garden and trails.
Curriculum Aligned
Educational programs designed to meet state learning standards.
Outdoor Classrooms
Immersive nature experiences in our dedicated learning spaces.
Hands-on Activities
Interactive botanical and environmental science workshops.
The North Carolina Arboretum 101
Easily accessible via the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway or Interstate 26, the Arboretum is surrounded by the lush, botanically-diverse Southern Appalachian Mountains, allowing visitors to connect personally with nature in ways that are as unique and rich as the land itself.
Why should you visit The North Carolina Arboretum? Here are a few reasons why visitors continue to come back time and time again:
- 65 acres of cultivated gardens, including the Bonsai Exhibition Garden and the National Native Azalea Collection accredited by the Plant Collections Network.
- 10+ miles of hiking and biking trails ranging from easy to moderate/difficult.
- A variety of family-friendly nature activities, including self-guided nature explorations and an EcoLab containing live reptiles and amphibians.
- Rotating art, science and educational exhibits displayed year-round.
- On-site bistro and indoor/outdoor dining area offering local, fresh ingredients made to order.
- A gift shop featuring a vibrant selection of hand-made craft items created by local and regional artists.
Things to Do in Asheville
Looking for help in planning your trip to Asheville? Visit ExploreAsheville.com for a list of Asheville-area activities, events, restaurants, tours, hotels and more!
Discounted Hotel Rates
Thanks in part to the Arboretum’s Community Partner Biltmore Farms Hotels, Arboretum guests can enjoy a special rate at the following hotels:
- Hilton Biltmore Park
- DoubleTree Biltmore Village
- Hampton Inn & Suites Biltmore Village
- Residence Inn Biltmore
Extend Your Visit with a Year-Long Membership!
From special events and traveling exhibits to seasonal changes in our carefully-cultivated gardens and the stunning Appalachian landscape, there is always something new happening at The North Carolina Arboretum. By joining The North Carolina Arboretum Society or gifting a membership, you or someone you love can experience a full year of what the Arboretum has to offer, with benefits that include free parking, access to special events, discounts and more.
Garden Etiquette
The North Carolina Arboretum is a stunning, tranquil garden located in beautiful Western North Carolina. We ask that you please be considerate of the following rules so that visitors, plants and animals alike can continue to enjoy this wonderful area:
- Leashed dogs and pets are welcome on property (except during Winter Lights and other specified events). Only service animals are permitted inside buildings and the Bonsai Exhibition Garden. Please be mindful of the gardens and other guests by picking up after your pet.
- Bicycles, roller blades and skateboards are not permitted in the main gardens and Bonsai Exhibition Garden.
- Picnics and outside food and drinks are allowed, however; please be sure to dispose of waste and recyclables in the appropriate receptacles.
- No firearms or outside alcohol are allowed on property.
- Personal photography is allowed. Please visit the photography policy page for more details regarding commercial photography and permits.
For any other questions regarding your visit to The North Carolina Arboretum, please contact us.
Accessibility
The Arboretum’s Education Center, Baker Exhibit Center and main garden areas are wheelchair accessible. If you have a request or question, please contact the Arboretum at 828-665-2492.
Firearms Policy
It is a violation of State criminal law (NCGS 14-269.2) and The N.C. Arboretum Campus policy to possess or carry any Weapon on the Arboretum campus, except under the following circumstances:
- Law enforcement personnel, firefighters, emergency service personnel, and military personnel, carrying out their official duties
- A person who has a legally valid concealed handgun permit or who is exempt from obtaining such a permit under State law, who has a handgun in a closed compartment or container within the person’s locked Vehicle or in a locked container securely affixed to the person’s Vehicle. A person may unlock the Vehicle to enter or exit the Vehicle, provided the handgun remains in the closed compartment at all times and the Vehicle is immediately following the entrance or exit, as provided in NCGS 14-269.2(k). Any such Vehicle, when locked, must be parked in accordance with applicable Arboretum policies.
Group Visit Request
Fill out the form below to begin planning your visit. Our education team will respond within 2 business days.
Our Promise
Expert instruction from certified environmental educators
Inclusive programs adaptable for all ability levels
Safe, maintained trails and learning environments
Flexible scheduling to meet your group's needs
Need Help?
Have questions before booking? Our education team is here to assist you.
More Ways to Connect
Volunteer With Us
Join our community of dedicated volunteers.
Newsletter Signup
Get updates on upcoming programs and events.
Donate
Support our mission of education and conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book my group visit?
We recommend booking at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially for visits during our peak spring and fall seasons. This ensures availability of guides and educational spaces.
What is the minimum group size?
A minimum of 15 participants is required to qualify for our group rates and specialized educational programming.
Where do buses park?
We have dedicated motorcoach and school bus parking near the main entrance. Instructions will be provided in your confirmation packet.
Can we bring our own lunches?
Yes! Groups are welcome to bring bagged lunches to enjoy at our designated picnic areas. We also offer boxed lunch catering options through our on-site café.
What happens if it rains?
Programs run rain or shine! We adapt activities for light rain, and have indoor greenhouse and classroom spaces available for severe weather.
We look forward to welcoming your group!
For immediate assistance, call us at (828) 665-2492.