New Hanover County Arboretum
A free, 7-acre oasis in Wilmington featuring diverse specialty gardens, a serene Japanese garden, a koi pond, and art installations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Plant sales & fewer crowds
New Hanover County Arboretum
Best Time
Plant sales & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, 7-acre oasis in Wilmington featuring diverse specialty gardens, a serene Japanese garden, a koi pond, and art installations.
"Super cute (& FREE) spot to visit while in Wilmington. Many places to just sit and enjoy the views."
🎯 Bring Quarters for Fish Food
Feed the giant koi fish! Bring quarters to purchase food on-site.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the greenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Japanese Garden Oasis
Northwest corner of the arboretum
Discover a serene Japanese Garden with a large koi pond and a picturesque red bridge. A true hidden gem for peaceful reflection.
Whimsical Frog Sculptures
Near the Cooperative Extension building
Admire charming frog sculptures created by local artist Andy Cobb, adding a touch of playful art to the natural landscape.
Vibrant Butterfly Garden
Designated garden area
In warmer months, this garden bursts with color and life, attracting a variety of beautiful butterflies.
Gigantic Koi Fish
Main pond
Feed the impressively large koi fish in the main pond; they'll swim right up to the surface, especially in summer. Bring quarters!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Admission
+3Timing is Key for Plant Sales
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Quarters for Fish Food
Feed the giant koi fish! Bring quarters to purchase food on-site.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the greenery.
📚 Free Book Boxes
Discover free book boxes scattered throughout the grounds for a relaxing read amidst nature.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The arboretum is a photographer's delight, with diverse gardens and art installations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Quarters for Fish Food
Feed the giant koi fish! Bring quarters to purchase food on-site.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the greenery.
📚 Free Book Boxes
Discover free book boxes scattered throughout the grounds for a relaxing read amidst nature.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The arboretum is a photographer's delight, with diverse gardens and art installations.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots, making for a delightful afternoon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the New Hanover County Arboretum as a beautiful, well-maintained, and peaceful 'hidden gem' in Wilmington. Its free admission is a major draw, offering a delightful escape with diverse gardens, a charming Japanese section, and impressive koi fish. While some find it smaller than other arboretums, its compact nature packs a lot of beauty and tranquility into a visit.
"Super cute (& FREE) spot to visit while in Wilmington. Our dog was staying in the hospital across the street and this place gave me a little bit of peace during that stressful time. Many places to just sit and enjoy the views and honestly a lot to see even though it’s not super big. Plenty of parking, we visited mid day on a weekday though so it could be busy weekend days. Overall, it’s a very nice place to visit and it’s well maintained!"
Kelsey Poje
"It was my first time visiting an Arboretum since I moved back to NC and it was a bit smaller than what I was used to in KY but it was so beautiful as soon as you walk in a big beautiful pond with a ton of fishes that swam right up to the surface. They also have plant sales on Saturdays. The day I visited sadly wasn't a Saturday, I may go back to visit just to get the Mother of Millions succulent."
Deborah Dawson
"So peaceful and quiet. Lovely place for some meditation or to clear your thoughts. The garden layout is very nice and there are plenty of spots to sit in the shade and enjoy a book or just sit there contemplating nature and if you forgot to bring a book then you can pick one up at one of the free book boxes on the property. The koi fish are gigantic and fun to watch."
David Colón
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The arboretum is conveniently located in Wilmington, NC, just off Oleander Drive. It's easily accessible by car and has plenty of parking available.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the arboretum, making it easy for visitors to access the grounds.
Information on public transportation routes to the arboretum can be found on the local transit authority's website.
The arboretum generally offers accessible pathways, allowing visitors with mobility challenges to enjoy the gardens.
The arboretum is typically open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any seasonal changes or special event hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the New Hanover County Arboretum is completely free! It's a wonderful, budget-friendly attraction.
The arboretum hosts monthly plant sales, often on Saturdays. These are great opportunities to buy unique plants.
Since admission is free, no advance booking is required. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
The arboretum occasionally hosts events and workshops. Check their official calendar for upcoming activities.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic, but please do not bring outside food for the fish.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the tranquil Japanese Garden, the vibrant Butterfly Garden, and the impressive koi pond. The art installations also add a unique touch. +1
Yes, the arboretum is family-friendly and features a kids' play area, making it enjoyable for younger visitors.
Absolutely! Leashed dogs are welcome, so you can bring your furry friends along to explore the gardens.
The arboretum showcases a variety of native plants suited for southeastern North Carolina, along with seasonal specialty flowers.
Yes, with its diverse gardens, water features, and art, it's a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no on-site dining facilities, but you are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas.
The arboretum is located near various restaurants and cafes in Wilmington, offering a range of dining choices.
While there are no concessions, there is a coconut carbon-filtered water dispenser for refilling reusable bottles.
📸 📸 Photography
The Japanese Garden with its red bridge and koi pond, the colorful butterfly garden, and areas with art installations offer excellent photo opportunities.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with the arboretum administration for their specific policy.
Generally, personal photography is encouraged. However, commercial photography may require special permission.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Yes, the art installations are part of the arboretum's appeal and are generally fine to photograph.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The highlight for many children is feeding the gigantic koi fish in the pond – just remember to bring quarters for the fish food! Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the greenery, making for a full and enjoyable afternoon. The free admission and ample parking make it an easy and accessible choice for a family day out in Wilmington.
💰 Budget Travelers
+4 This makes it an ideal activity for those looking to experience Wilmington's natural beauty affordably.To maximize your visit without spending money, pack your own picnic lunch and snacks.
You can also take advantage of the free book boxes scattered throughout the grounds for some leisurely reading. 🐶 Pet Owners
You can bring your leashed canine companions to explore the beautiful grounds alongside you. This allows for a shared outdoor experience, making it a great option for travelers who don't want to leave their pets behind.Remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times and be mindful of other visitors and the delicate garden environments. It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the arboretum's tranquility with your furry friend by your side.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Specialty Gardens
Beyond the Japanese Garden, keep an eye out for the butterfly garden, which becomes a vibrant spectacle when in bloom, attracting a flurry of winged visitors. The arboretum also highlights the region's unique flora, providing educational insights for plant enthusiasts. Even in winter, the camellias offer a splash of color, demonstrating the year-round appeal of this green space.
For those interested in specific plant varieties, the monthly plant sales are a must-attend event. These sales are a fantastic opportunity to acquire succulents, native plants, and other horticultural treasures directly from the source, often featuring plants like the 'Mother of Millions'.
Family Fun and Relaxation
The overall atmosphere is peaceful and inviting, making it an ideal spot for families to enjoy a leisurely outing. The presence of gigantic koi fish in the main pond is a particular hit with children, who can delight in feeding them (remember to bring quarters!). Beyond the play area, the arboretum provides numerous quiet spots to sit and contemplate nature. Whether you bring a book to read from one of the free book boxes or simply wish to enjoy the scenery, there are plenty of benches and shaded areas. This makes it a perfect place for parents to relax while the children play or for anyone seeking a moment of calm.
Artistic Touches and Community Spirit
These artistic touches provide delightful surprises as you wander through the gardens, offering both visual interest and conversation starters. The arboretum also fosters a strong sense of community. It serves as a 'horticultural laboratory' for the on-site Cooperative Extension staff, contributing to local horticultural knowledge.
The monthly plant sales are a testament to this community spirit, bringing together plant enthusiasts and offering a chance to support local horticulture. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit