In the spring, the North Carolina Arboretum is full of natural beauty. Garden upon garden of blooming flowers, a newly planted Quilt Garden ready for the new season, a special immersive exhibit "Bloom with a View," hands-on educational programs, and azaleas in their breathtaking full bloom certainly make these gardens a great trip from Greenville, SC and the surrounding areas.
The North Carolina Arboretum
The arboretum was established in 1986 as a facility of the University of North Carolina. It has a rich history dating back to the vision of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who wished to create an arboretum near the Biltmore Estate at the turn of the 20th century. To this day, the arboretum is a botanical wonderland that offers miles of trails for exploration, beautiful gardens, educational programs and exhibits all year round. A statue of the founding father can be seen on the main promenade, framed by mountain peaks in the background.
Azalea Blooming Season
Starting in mid to late April, the Azalea Garden is a sight to behold when native azaleas begin to bloom. If you are lucky enough to visit in late spring, you are in for a visual treat. Pinkshell, Piedmont, Pinksterbloom, Oconee and Florida azaleas are the first to start drawing attention with their divine scent and vibrant color. With warmer spring weather, more blossoms will follow. The latest azalea to bloom is the coastal azalea. The blooms are typically white and famed for their fragrance. I hope you have the opportunity to visit the Azalea Collection in spring. It's truly a joy to watch as the garden comes alive for the season.
Quilt Garden
As you walk through the garden closer to the fountain, a big carpet of artfully arranged flowers catches your eye - Quilt Garden. Upon closer inspection, you'll see it comprises of 24 squares that make up a unique floral theme. It gets transformed into a new quilt pattern every season with thousands of bright blooms and a consistent design. So, it's always a unique experience and worth visiting year after year.
Bloom with a View
Dates: May 4-19, 2024
Experience an absolute explosion of color and life at the gardens with the exquisite installation, "Bloom with a View." As you traverse through the grounds, you'll be treated to an extravagant display of myriad flowers, all meticulously arranged in festive flower planters.
Each step you take will bring you closer to thousands of vibrant blooms. As if plucked from a dream, this spectacular installation invites you to wander and immerse yourself in the unrivaled beauty of nature.
Mountain Science Expo
When: 4/27/2024, annually
Admission: Included in the parking ticket
Mountain Science Expo is a free annual STEM-oriented science festival that brings together science educators and budding naturalists. This event provides a unique opportunity for attendees of all ages to expand their scientific knowledge and experience in a hands-on environment. Kids will get the chance to interact with experts, delve into nature, and rekindle their curiosity about the world around us.
The expo features many exhibits from a diverse range of organizations, including the creative minds from Asheville Makers, the daring explorers of ecoEXPLORE, and the ambitious scholars of Project Explore. Also participating are The National Center for Environmental Information, The North Carolina Department of Air Quality, UNCA STEAM Labs, RiverLink, Blue Ridge Audubon Chapter, FIND Outdoors and more.
This isn't just an ordinary garden visit. Getting lost amidst a sea of flowers, with the
refreshing scent of blossoms filling the air and vibrant colors meeting
your eyes at every turn is an extraordinary journey that engages all your senses and leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Each season has something special to celebrate in the gardens. Spring draws attention to native azaleas, summer fills the grounds with live music, and the holiday season is illuminated by winter lights. And no matter the season, the gardens are always a source of joy that invites you to wander, explore and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of nature.
Visitors can also enjoy the onsite bistro, gift shop and ever-changing exhibits at the visitor center. With no admission charge, the North Carolina Arboretum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in botany, nature and outdoor activities.
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