Arborcrest Gardens Grand Reopening Summer 2026
Thank you for your support last year. Arborcrest Gardens is currently closed to all visitors. We look forward to welcoming you back in Summer 2026. Please stay tuned for updates on our reopening by following us on social media and checking our website regularly.
Welcome to Arborcrest Gardens, a 26-acre botanical research garden nestled at the base of Howard's Knob Mountain in Boone, NC, just minutes from Appalachian State University. As a dedicated 501(c)(3) non-profit, we open our doors for guided tours on Fridays by advance reservation.
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Founded in 1989 by Ron and Cheryl Stanley as a modest home garden, Arborcrest Gardens has since evolved into a pivotal resource for both amateur and professional gardeners. Join us as we contribute to the global botanical community with our research and expertise. Learn more about our journey and mission here.
Glimpse Of The Gardens
Plant Research and Evaluation
We evaluate various plant species and cultivars for their ornamental value, disease resistance, and overall performance in diverse environments. Through research and observation, we aim to identify and promote the best plants for both aesthetic appeal and resilience, ensuring that our garden is not only beautiful but also contributes to the advancement of horticultural knowledge.
14 Days
This photo was captured on September 13, 2024—exactly 14 days before Hurricane Helene.
Arborcrest had just been celebrated in Our State magazine. In an instant, the landscape we spent 35 years cultivating was forever changed. But while the storm reshaped us, it did not break our mission.
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We invite you to visit our Hurricane Helene Restoration page to see the full story of the storm’s impact on Arborcrest.
Stay Connected With Us
Together We Grow
Arborcrest is working to actively engage with the community through educational programs, landscaping for local churches and schools, and providing guided educational electric shuttle tours for all. You can be a part of our mission by learning more about our efforts and considering a donation.
Visit the Gardens
We offer free admission, supported by suggested donations of $30 per person for riding tours and $15 for walking tours. Open from March through November, we provide 1.5-hour guided electric shuttle tours and self-guided walking tours, with advanced reservations needed due to limited parking. Explore a large variety of unique species, seasonal blooms, and rare plants. Select one of the tours below to discover more details and make your reservation.
Preserving Nature's Beauty
Our Conservation Mission
At Arborcrest, we're committed to the conservation and preservation of Southern Appalachian native plants. Our garden works to safeguard these species through research, cultivation, and education. By selecting plants based on their adaptability to our region, we monitor their growth and health while exploring new propagation techniques. Discover what we're doing to conserve nature and support our mission today.
Vegetable Garden & Greenhouse
The vegetable garden is the heart and soul of Arborcrest. This space contains a rich variety of seasonal vegetables, herbs, and fruits, inviting visitors to explore the connection between nature and nutrition. The garden not only serves as a source of fresh ingredients but also educates guests on sustainable gardening practices and the importance of local, small-scale food systems.
Arborcrest In The News
