The New Hanover County Arboretum

One of the most beautiful and tranquil locations in southeastern North Carolina is the New Hanover County Arboretum. Lush landscapes, flowering plants and bushes, verdant lawns, and colorful water features combine to create a community garden that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Arboretum gardens are open from 7am to dusk 365 days of the year unless closed for a private event or weather related event. Admission is FREE, except for ticketed events.

The seven-acre Arboretum has one of the largest water gardens in North Carolina — home to multi-colored koi, turtles and frogs. Parents and grandparents bring children to the Arboretum just to feed the fish. A giant sea serpent stands watch over all.

Paved walkways take you past a lush rose garden and then to a Japanese garden with a tea house and winding stream. Continual along the path to the Arboretum’s picnic area, and then to a magical children’s garden with a miniature cottage at its center.

The Arboretum’s Ability Garden is specially designed to provide opportunities for people of all levels of ability to enjoy gardening.

From its opening in 1989, the Arboretum has served as a horticultural laboratory and education center to demonstrate correct horticultural practices, showcase the many plants that thrive in this area, and research new plant species.

The Arboretum has a knowledgeable staff and many volunteers working to make the gardens beautiful and educational. Come out and discover what makes the Arboretum so extraordinary!