The North Carolina Arboretum: A Botanical Oasis in Asheville
Explore the North Carolina Arboretum, a serene botanical garden in Asheville with stunning landscapes, diverse plant collections, and scenic trails.
Discover the North Carolina Arboretum, a stunning botanical garden nestled in the heart of Asheville. With breathtaking landscapes, diverse plant collections, and miles of scenic trails, this arboretum offers a perfect escape into nature for tourists and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to The North Carolina Arboretum
- 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, North Carolina, 28806, US
- +1828-665-2492
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-9 pm
- Thursday 8 am-9 pm
- Friday 8 am-9 pm
- Saturday 8 am-9 pm
- Sunday 8 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Check the schedule for seasonal events and workshops to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the trails can vary in difficulty and length.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and unique plant life.
- Don’t miss the Bonsai Exhibition Garden for a unique botanical experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, take US-276 South. Follow US-276 for approximately 15 miles until you reach the intersection with I-40. Merge onto I-40 East toward Asheville. After about 5 miles, take exit 47 for NC-191 South toward Brevard. Continue on NC-191 for about 5 miles, then turn left onto Frederick Law Olmsted Way. The North Carolina Arboretum will be on your right after about 1 mile. Parking is available on-site and is free.
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Public Transportation
While public transportation options are limited in the mountainous areas, you can take the Asheville Transit System (ART) from downtown Asheville. Take route 1 (Blue Line) towards the Biltmore Estate and get off at the stop at Biltmore Village. From there, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach The North Carolina Arboretum, which is about a 15-minute drive (approximately 8 miles). Be aware that rideshare fares may vary.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, biking to The North Carolina Arboretum is also an option. From Asheville, head west on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The ride is approximately 10 miles and offers beautiful scenery. You can access the arboretum from the parkway by taking NC-191 South and then Frederick Law Olmsted Way. Ensure you wear a helmet and follow all local biking regulations.
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Taxi/Rideshare
If you prefer not to drive, you can easily hail a taxi or use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft from anywhere in the Blue Ridge Mountains to The North Carolina Arboretum. The fare will depend on your starting point, but it typically ranges from $15 to $30 from Asheville. Make sure to confirm the estimated fare in the app before confirming your ride.
Discover more about The North Carolina Arboretum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Biltmore Legacy
7.0 km
Explore the Biltmore Legacy in Asheville, NC, and uncover the rich history that has shaped this vibrant Southern city.
Fernihurst Mansion
9.3 km
Explore the historic Fernihurst Mansion in Asheville, NC, an architectural masterpiece surrounded by lush gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Thomas Jarrett House
9.4 km
Discover the architectural charm and historical significance of the Thomas Jarrett House, a true gem in Asheville's rich heritage.
New Morning Gallery
9.7 km
Explore New Morning Gallery in Biltmore Village for a diverse selection of local art, handcrafted treasures, and a vibrant cultural experience in Asheville.
McGeahy Building
9.7 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of the McGeahy Building, a historic landmark in Biltmore Village, Asheville, North Carolina.
Biltmore Village Cottage District
9.7 km
Explore the historic charm of Biltmore Village Cottage District, where stunning architecture meets vibrant local culture in Asheville, NC.
Biltmore Hardware Building
9.7 km
Explore the Biltmore Hardware Building in Asheville, a stunning historical landmark that embodies the region's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Biltmore Village Commercial Buildings
9.8 km
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Biltmore Historic Village Hl
9.8 km
Experience the charm of Biltmore Historic Village, where history meets artisanal shopping and stunning architecture in Asheville, North Carolina.
Riverside Industrial Historic District
10.6 km
Explore Asheville's Riverside Industrial Historic District, where history meets natural beauty along the French Broad River in North Carolina.
French Broad River Greenway Railroad Bridge
11.1 km
Explore Asheville's historical gem, the French Broad River Greenway Railroad Bridge, where nature and heritage beautifully intertwine.
Asheville Tourists
11.3 km
Catch the excitement of Minor League Baseball at Asheville Tourists Stadium, a vibrant hub for sports, community, and unforgettable experiences in North Carolina.
Hominy Valley Overlook
11.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene nature at Hominy Valley Overlook, a stunning spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Asheville Emporium
11.9 km
Explore Asheville Emporium: Your ultimate destination for unique gifts, local art, and unforgettable souvenirs in Downtown Asheville.
Breakout Games - Asheville
11.9 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at Breakout Games in Asheville - where puzzles, teamwork, and excitement await in immersive escape rooms.
Unmissable attractions to see
Biltmore Waterfall
6.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Biltmore Waterfall, a serene spot within Asheville's stunning Biltmore Estate, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Lake Julian Park
6.2 km
Explore Lake Julian Park in Arden, NC - a tranquil retreat featuring scenic lake views, recreational activities, and beautiful picnic areas.
Biltmore Rose Garden
6.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Biltmore Rose Garden, featuring over 250 varieties of roses amidst the historic charm of Asheville, North Carolina.
Biltmore Estate
6.9 km
Experience the majestic beauty and rich history of Biltmore Estate, the largest privately-owned home in the U.S., set in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.
Land Rover Experience Biltmore
7.0 km
Discover thrilling off-roading adventures at Land Rover Experience Biltmore in Asheville, where adventure meets breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable memories.
Biltmore Estate Rooftop Tour
7.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Biltmore Estate Rooftop Tour, a must-visit landmark in Asheville, North Carolina.
Biltmore
7.4 km
Discover the grandeur of Biltmore Estate, America's largest privately-owned home, nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Blue Ridge Parkway
7.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and historical significance of the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic drive through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.
Carrier Park
8.1 km
Explore Carrier Park in Asheville, a perfect blend of nature and recreation in North Carolina's beautiful landscapes. Enjoy trails, sports, and serene views.
12 Bones Brewing
8.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of craft beer and BBQ at 12 Bones Brewing in Arden, North Carolina, a true gem for beer lovers and foodies alike.
French Broad River Park
9.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of French Broad River Park in Asheville, NC, a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Awesome mural
9.3 km
Discover the Awesome Mural in Asheville, NC, a stunning representation of local artistry and vibrant culture, perfect for art enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Stony Bald Overlook
9.3 km
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plēb urban winery
9.5 km
Experience the essence of Asheville's wine culture at plēb urban winery, where local artistry meets exceptional wine craftsmanship.
Asheville Radio Museum
9.5 km
Discover the fascinating history of radio technology at Asheville Radio Museum, a unique tourist attraction in Asheville, NC.
Essential places to dine
131 MAIN Restaurant
4.5 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at 131 MAIN Restaurant in Asheville - where fresh flavors meet fine dining.
Moose Cafe
6.5 km
Experience the heart of Southern hospitality with delicious breakfast delights at Moose Cafe in Asheville.
Cedric's Tavern
7.0 km
Experience classic American flavors at Cedric's Tavern in Asheville – where history meets delicious cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
7.3 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar in Asheville – where tradition meets modern dining.
Culver’s
8.6 km
Experience the best of American comfort food at Culver’s in Arden – where buttery burgers meet rich frozen custard!
Jargon
9.2 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine and handcrafted cocktails at Jargon in Asheville - where flavor meets creativity.
The Admiral
9.4 km
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Ruth's Chris Steak House
9.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Asheville – where sizzling steaks meet refined elegance.
Village Social
9.6 km
Discover Village Social in Asheville: A family-friendly restaurant offering delicious meals in a cozy atmosphere perfect for all ages.
Red Stag Grill
9.6 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine in an upscale setting at Red Stag Grill in Asheville's Grand Bohemian Hotel.
RosaBees
9.7 km
Experience authentic Hawaiian flavors in Asheville's River Arts District at RosaBees - where every bite transports you to paradise.
Andaaz
9.7 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine in Asheville's finest dining setting at Andaaz – where flavor meets elegance.
Corner Kitchen
9.7 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Corner Kitchen in Asheville's charming Biltmore Village - where every meal tells a story.
12 Bones Smokehouse RIVER
9.8 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at 12 Bones Smokehouse RIVER in Asheville's River Arts District - where flavor meets creativity.
The Cantina At Historic Biltmore Village
9.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at The Cantina in Historic Biltmore Village - perfect for families and food enthusiasts alike.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Smoky Mountain Creations
6.5 km
Explore the charm of Smoky Mountain Creations, Asheville's best souvenir store for unique handmade crafts and local artistry.
Biltmore Carriage House Shop
7.0 km
Explore the Biltmore Carriage House Shop for unique gifts, local artisans, and Biltmore-themed souvenirs in the heart of Asheville's stunning estate.
Instant Karma Asheville
9.2 km
Explore a vibrant gift shop in Asheville featuring unique clothing, candles, and metaphysical supplies to bring home a piece of local culture.
Whist
9.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Whist, Asheville's charming gift shop that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship.
Peace & Nice Boutique
9.5 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Peace & Nice Boutique in Asheville's Biltmore Village, where style meets charm in a delightful shopping experience.
Gate House Gift Shop
9.5 km
Explore exclusive Biltmore gifts and local crafts at the Gate House Gift Shop, a charming destination for souvenirs and unique finds.
Splurge
9.6 km
Explore Splurge in Asheville's River Arts District for unique antiques, local art, and timeless treasures that celebrate the city's rich heritage.
Wildflowers Vintage
9.7 km
Explore Wildflowers Vintage in Asheville's River Arts District for unique, sustainable fashion treasures that celebrate individuality and creativity.
House of Kismet
9.7 km
Explore unique vintage clothing for all ages at House of Kismet in Asheville's artistic River Arts District, where style meets nostalgia.
Scout Boutique
9.7 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Scout Boutique in Asheville's Biltmore Village, blending local charm with contemporary style.
Collected - Home, Gifts, Vintage
9.7 km
Explore the charm of Asheville at Collected, where vintage finds and unique home decor await in a cozy boutique setting.
Provisions Mercantile — Biltmore Village
9.7 km
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Olde World Christmas Shoppe
9.7 km
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Southern Highland Craft Guild, Biltmore Village
9.8 km
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Life Styled
9.8 km
Discover unique high-end fashion and accessories at Life Styled, Asheville’s premier boutique in the charming Biltmore Village.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stone Ridge Tavern
3.4 km
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Cascade Lounge
8.4 km
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Blue Ridge Tavern
9.1 km
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Westville Pub / All Sevens Brewing
9.3 km
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Desoto Lounge
9.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Desoto Lounge, Asheville's favorite bar and grill, offering delicious food, drinks, and live music.
The Double Crown
9.4 km
Experience Asheville's vibrant nightlife at The Double Crown, a dive bar known for its affordable drinks and welcoming atmosphere.
The Odd
9.6 km
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Breezeway Bar
9.7 km
Experience the charm of Asheville at the Breezeway Bar, where relaxation meets a delightful beverage selection in a cozy atmosphere.
All Souls Grotto - Craft Beer, CBD, Delta 8, THCa, & Mushrooms
9.7 km
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Village Pub
10.0 km
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Azalea Bar & Kitchen
10.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Asheville at Azalea Bar & Kitchen, where small plates and a lively bar create the perfect dining atmosphere.
Crucible
10.6 km
Discover Crucible, Asheville's vibrant bar known for exceptional cocktails, local brews, and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding after exploring the city.
Sovereign Kava Bar
11.1 km
Experience the unique flavors of kava in a vibrant Asheville bar with live music, table tennis, and a welcoming lounge atmosphere.
The Prospect
11.3 km
Discover The Prospect, a vibrant bar in Asheville's South Slope Brewing District, offering a fantastic selection of local craft beverages and a welcoming atmosphere.
Antidote at Chemist Spirits
11.3 km
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