Membership
Why Become a Member?
Free Parking
For you and everyone in the vehicle.
Access
65 acres of cultivated gardens, 10+ miles of trails, and Arboretum events.
Discounts
At the Arbor Eatery, Gift Shop, Winter Lights, and Youth and Adult Education programs.
Reciprocal Benefits
Visit 380+ gardens in the American Horticultural Society Network and The North Carolina Zoo.
Become a Member or Renew Today
Select Your Membership Level
Individual
- Free parking for a personal/standard vehicle. Members are welcome to bring guests with them.
- Discounts at the Arbor Eatery, Gift Shop, Winter Lights, and Youth and Adult Education programs.
- Reciprocal admissions program through the American Horticultural Society to 380+ gardens throughout North America.
- Reciprocal admission to the NC Zoo.
- Free admission to Arbor Evenings summer music series.
- Arboretum Insider: Bi-monthly Membership e-newsletter
Household
- All Individual benefits
- For two adults living in the same household.
- Household level memberships will receive two membership cards.
Rhododendron
- All Household benefits
- Early access to plant sales
- Invitation to Members Night at Winter Lights. Members Night is date specific.
- Complimentary membership tote bag
Laurel
- All Rhododendron benefits
- Invitation to exclusive members-only events
Holly
- All Laurel benefits
- Invitation to Winter Lights Preview Night
Leadership & Giving Circles
For those who want to make an even greater impact on conservation and education.
Circle Level Memberships
Join a circle of philanthropic supporters dedicated to making a meaningful difference.
Circle-level memberships include all benefits of lower levels plus behind-the-scenes tours, Winter Lights ticket member presale, two complimentary Adult Education classes, and two complimentary parking passes to share.
Are You a Local Nonprofit?
Eligible 501c3 nonprofit organizations that plan to visit the Arboretum multiple times throughout the year may apply for a Nonprofit Organization Membership Pass. Call 828-412-8529 for more information.
Your Membership Makes a Difference
Membership donations to The North Carolina Arboretum Society, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
All memberships are valid for a full year from the time you join.
Member benefits are subject to change.
Memberships are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply my parking receipt towards a membership?
Yes! Visit the Membership Kiosk located in the Baker Exhibit Center on the day of your visit and we will deduct the parking fee from the cost of your membership. Visited us yesterday? Please hang on to your parking receipt and call us within 24 hours of your visit at 828-665-2492. Please note, parking fees cannot be applied to an online membership purchase.
Can I bring guests?
Yes! Members are welcome to bring additional guests in their standard vehicle for no additional cost. A member must be in the vehicle with a current membership card for entry.
I just became a member. What happens next?
- You will receive a receipt e-mail confirmation of your membership purchase if you joined or renewed online.
- You may use your receipt as proof of membership to receive your temporary card(s) during your next visit, and you may use your temporary card(s) until your permanent membership card(s) arrive by mail, usually within 10-14 days.
- You will begin receiving the Arboretum’s bi-monthly e-newsletter, Arboretum Insider. The e-newsletter contains timely information about events, classes, exhibits and other happenings at the Arboretum.
Can I visit before I receive my membership card?
Yes! Just bring your photo ID, receipt, or confirmation email if you purchased your membership online, and the Arboretum will issue you a temporary membership card. If you have already received a temporary membership card, you can continue to use it until you receive your permanent card in the mail. You will receive your permanent card within 10-14 days.
How do I use my NC Arboretum membership at other gardens?
The North Carolina Arboretum is a member of the American Horticultural Society’s Garden Network, which includes more than 380 gardens and arboreta across the U.S. and Canada. Please visit their website for the most up-to-date listings. Please note that reciprocal privileges are for the member(s) named on the card only; at most gardens, you will be required to show your Arboretum membership card and a photo ID.
How do I use my NC Arboretum membership at The North Carolina Zoo?
Arboretum members have reciprocal privileges at The North Carolina Zoo, located in Asheboro, N.C. Please note: reciprocal privileges are for the member(s) named on the card only, and you may be required to show photo ID, along with your Arboretum membership card. Please note: The Western North Carolina (WNC) Nature Center does not have a reciprocal benefit with the Arboretum.
Can I lend my membership card to a friend or family member?
No. Memberships are non-transferable and are valid only for the person whose name appears on the card. Supporting photo ID may be required for entrance.
How do I contact the Membership Team?
You can reach us at membership@ncarboretum.org or by phone at 828-665-2492 seven days a week between 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.