The North Carolina Arboretum

This is one of the most beautiful garden settings I’ve ever seen. There are many activities and educational programs that go on here.
Before I start, let me tell you that dogs are welcome. However, they are not welcome inside of the Baker visitor center.
there are many beautiful native trails that are surrounded by plants and trees. The trails are nicely cared for and just about anyone could hike them.
There’s an amphitheater, A gift shop, dining and picnics. A waterway and a pond escape. There’s an education center and a bonsai exhibit.
I could go on and on. If you love trailing, botanical things, trees,taking pictures and being outside you could spend the whole day here.
Have a great adventure ♥

You have to pay for parking, but entry to the NC Arboretum itself is free. I didn't mind the parking fee at all, because I'm sure it goes toward caring for the grounds and the people who work there. I took my mom through here and we both enjoyed it. I wheeled Mom around in her wheelchair very easily. There were so many different types of flowers, shrubs, and trees. There's also a small train track and town display. We could've spent so much more time just taking in all of the beauty, but it began to sprinkle, so we went inside to grab gifts and we were on our way. We took lots of photos and will have fun looking back on the memories. The bonsai tree displays had my imagination running wild!

The staff were all very kind, other guests were polite, and everything was clean and well cared for. This is a must see, if you're in the area. We had a blast!!

Loved the winter lights show! A massive amount of colored lights which was a perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit. We got there early on a Thursday so it wasn’t too busy! As the crowd picked up it was still a very comfortable crowd level. Highly recommended!

We love coming here. So many beautiful lights. Everyone will definitely love it. There's plenty of room to walk around. The little ones will love the trains. There's hot chocolate, soft drinks, food, gift shops, and restrooms. Lots to enjoy and see .

Last night's visit to the NC Arboretum's Winter Lights event in Asheville was nothing short of magical. The drive to the Arboretum was picturesque and set the tone for the evening. Despite it being a busy night, the atmosphere was lively yet comfortable, enhancing the experience rather than overwhelming it.

The array of lights and displays was breathtaking, offering countless opportunities to create lasting memories with family. Each exhibit was thoughtfully designed and beautifully illuminated, capturing the essence of the winter season in a vibrant display of colors.

The overall organization of the event was commendable, with every detail meticulously planned to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors. It was especially impressive how the event managed to cater to both the young and the young at heart, making it a perfect family outing.

In terms of value, the ticket price was absolutely justified by the quality and extent of the displays. The time spent wandering through the enchanting lights was well worth it, offering an immersive experience that went beyond just viewing the lights.

Overall, the NC Arboretum's Winter Lights event is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the magic of the winter season in a spectacular setting. It's a wonderful way to spend an evening out with family, enveloped in the warmth and joy of the holiday spirit. DRESS WARM!!

We most recently visited the Arboretum for the Winter Lights event. Preordering tickets online was super easy and we able to get in quickly and park with ease. Everyone working was very friendly and helpful. The lights were amazing and I will definitely go back next year!

We loved this place! The gardens were beautifully designed by Frank Law Olmstead and have to be seen to be believed. Beautiful nature trails wind through the entire area and there are plenty of benches to take a break or just take in the scenery. This place is magical. We were fortunate to spot a mother bear, her two cubs and a copperhead on the trail. The trails are well marked and pretty easy to traverse. If I lived here I would be hiking at the Arboretum several days a week. The bistro served a great lunch - The Hungry Hiker Salad with a scoop of curried chicken salad was delicious! Don’t miss the bonsai exhibit!

Beautiful and massive Christmas light show, a wonderful experience for all ages. The volunteer staff keep wood fires lit around the grounds and are very cheery and friendly. It's not the most wheelchair/stroller accessible site, but (steep) ramps are available to most of the areas.

Very beautiful walk thru (not drive through , which was awesome!) light show! Best we’ve seen this year! Multiple clean restrooms in the park, s’mores fire pit area, easy parking with attendants, great gift shops, beverage areas and wonderful model train area!
My family and I enjoyed it very much!
Fun for all ages!! Great walk paths for strollers, wide open areas so even if it’s busy you don’t feel crowded!

We had an incredible day here. The gardens are beautiful, and the bonsai collection outstanding. There was an exhibit about the manufacturing of perfume, related to flower cultivation that is a real treat for the senses. There are "sniffer" tubes set up, so that you can smell different perfume scent sources. A harp trio played in the garden, and the tranquility was so pleasant. What a place to unwind, and get in touch with your soul! Go there!

I’m so glad we stopped here on a trip to Asheville. It was beautiful and we especially loved the bonsai tree exhibit. We plan to come back and utilize the walking trails. It’s $20 a vehicle and tons of parking.

Very nice lights with some neat little additions like roasting marshmallows and hot cider and cocoa. Only mistake we made was not dressing quite warm enough! I highly recommend dressing warm and layered and remove a layer if needed!

This was a magical, creative, and fabulous exhibition withe use of lights and music. Storytime for the children was nostalgic. Once my grandchildren are old enough I would love to make this trip again.

Such a beautiful and peaceful place. We walked some of the trails and went through most of the garden area. It is absolutely stunning and I can't recommend this place enough.

Beautiful gardens, very well designed and maintained. Gorgeous trails with several levels of difficulty. Easy access to the welcome center and parking lot and courteous staff. Highly recommended!

We visited the NC Arboretum for an afternoon. It's a very well maintained facility and the staff are friendly and informative! Admission is technically free but parking is $20 per car so pile in everyone you know!

Amazing bonsai exhibit!

The trails were amazing too.

It's a 20$ parking fee, so come in 1 car if you can! The parking is the only thing you have to pay for.

It was a mild, early evening. No colder than 55°. The Holiday Lights lit and danced as festive background music played. Many people, self included, sipped on cocoa, with a dollup of marshmallow. Such an enjoyable evening!

One of the most beautiful and well kept gardens anywhere! Immaculate care of everything. Don't miss the Bonsai Garden or miniature train area with Thomas and amazing the Bonsai plants in railroad area. Amazing and varied walking trails. Great gift shop. Nearly every plant or tree has marker description. Just amazing for $20.00 car entry fee.

We’ve been here twice and we loved it both times. So much to see! There are easy and difficult hikes. Everything is well marked. The staff is always so helpful. We love the bonsai exhibit. First Tuesday of the month is half price!