JC Raulston Arboretum Winter Camellia Collection, Rose Garden & Japanese Garden

About this adventure

Operated by NC State University, the JC Raulston Arboretum is a nationally acclaimed 10-acre botanical garden showcasing one of the most diverse plant collections in the Southeast. While winter puts many gardens to sleep, JC Raulston comes alive with vibrant winter interest: hundreds of blooming winter camellias showing off deep pinks, reds, and whites, sweet-smelling winter daphne, paperbush, colorful winter berry displays, and striking conifer textures. Children love exploring the winding stone pathways of the Japanese Garden, walking across the wooden bridges, and discovering hidden garden rooms. Paved paths make pushing a stroller effortless, and educational plant markers give budding young botanists a fun way to learn about world flora during a gentle, sunny afternoon stroll. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Smoothly paved concrete pathways wind through almost all garden collections, making the arboretum exceptionally stroller and wheelchair accessible. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Ruby C. McSwain Education Center offers climate-controlled seating, clean modern restrooms with changing stations, and garden view benches. • Age Suitability: Delightful for all ages, particularly peaceful for parents with infants and toddlers discovering colors and flowers. • Sensory Tips: Rich sensory experience with sweet winter floral fragrances, rustling bamboo groves, and peaceful running water in the Asian garden.