What to expect at the North Carolina Arboretum

My experience and what to expect at the  North Carolina Arboretum located in Asheville, North Carolina. 65 acres of beautiful gardens and trails.

During my birthday getaway in late April to Asheville, North Carolina I spent the morning at the North Carolina Arboretum. What a lovely place to visit. Located within the Pisgah National Forest, the seasonal gardens and landscapes did not disappoint…not one bit. I stay at the Grove Park Inn every year I go. Best Spa Ever!

What to expect at the North Carolina Arboretum

Location

The North Carolina Arboretum is located about 10 miles outside of downtown Asheville. It is located off the Blue Ridge Parkway and easy to find if you are visiting the area. The 65 acres of gardens include a Bonsai Exhibition, Garden Cliff, Betty Dickinson Holly Garden, and a Heritage Garden that celebrates Southern Appalachian horticulture.

This is the Quilt Garden. It uses traditional quilt block patterns with plants. The designs change every two years and the plants are replaced every spring, summer, and fall. The garden is known to represent close ties between heritage crafts and the contemporary art and craft of quilting in the Southern Appalachian region. My picture doesn’t do it justice and it was huge and beautiful.

Hours of Operation

The Arboretum is open from 9 am-5 pm daily.  You pay a minimal fee ( per car) at the main gate to get access to the gardens and trails.  Affiliated with the University of North Carolina, the gardens also offer more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails that vary in levels of difficulty.

All around the gardens you see interesting pieces of art made by local artisans.

Additional Amenities

Inside the Visitor Center, there is a gift shop that was worth popping into. A  Bistro on the property served a variety of sandwiches snacks and beverages. You can picnic anywhere on the beautiful property.

I got lots of ideas for my own garden, took notes, and came home inspired. More importantly, it was a great day spent with my sister.

Those with or without green thumbs will want to put the North Carolina Arboretum on their to-visit list.

For more travel ideas and tips click here.

Grateful

for a wonderful birthday getaway