North Carolina Botanical Gardens

The North Carolina Botanical Gardens in Chapel Hill has recently reopened to visitors after being closed due to COVID-19. Classified as a Conservation Garden, they focus on protecting natural areas, education, eliminating invasive species, and seed banking, all while using sustainable gardening practices.

In comparison to De Hart Botanical Garden and Juniper Level Botanic Garden, I can definitely see the difference in a conservation garden. The North Carolina Botanical Gardens contained more natural, non-manicured areas than I had see in other gardens, and just seemed more wild overall. The main attraction for us was the Children’s Garden, and was where we spent the majority of our time.

at the entrance to the North Carolina Botanical Gardens

Children’s Garden

We took a quick look at the map posted at the entrance and knew we had to head straight for the Children’s Garden. It was a short dirt path through the brushes and we arrived in a clearing with interactive activities setup for the kids.

The most popular attraction was the sandbox. They were limiting the number of people using it at a time so we didn’t even try to play in there, but it wasn’t crowded so I’m sure you will be able to find some time to play.

Surrounding the sandbox was plenty of seating for the caregivers, plus a unique spider web type feature for weaving. There were some logs and stumps placed strategically for jumping, climbing, and balancing. There was lots of imaginative outdoor play going on over there!

Also located in the children’s garden was a fun photo op cutout and a natural log table and chairs for the kids. It was set back in the trees and my little ones enjoyed playing in their very own hideout! I guess they don’t get to play in the woods that often so it was pretty exciting for them to be hidden by the trees!

There was also a small educational building with pictures of the plants and animals we might see at the garden. I saw a staff member explaining some of the pictures to another group, but I didn’t catch everything that was said. The teacher stayed outside of the building while the group stayed inside so everyone was safely socially distanced.

Display Gardens

After we left the children’s garden we proceeded to stroll through the rest of the display gardens. Many trails were closed off to allow a single directional walk through, so there were parts of the garden we didn’t make it to see. Plus, well… kids! It was hot and humid that day so they just didn’t last that long!

The Education Center was closed, but there was an awesome table setup outside that informed of us the flowers that were currently in bloom at the garden. I like knowing the names of the plants, so this was very helpful and informative.

table that told us what specific plants were in bloom at the garden

Garden Habitats

The garden is divided and categorized by habitat. You will find the coastal plain, mountain, Piedmont, and sandhills habitats as you walk. There’s also an herb garden, water plants garden, and carnivorous plant collection. At the center of everything you will find the gathering circle inside the main courtyard. There was a large, life-sized chess board in the courtyard, but they had removed the pieces due to COVID-19.

Herb Garden

The furthest we walked with the kids was the herb garden. It was a separate section with raised garden beds and art sculptures placed throughout. This spot would be tricky with the stroller since the path got very narrow, but you could probably still manage if you took the right trail.

Programs and Events

During normal operations, the botanical gardens offers many programs and events throughout the year. They have a drop-off class for ages 4 and 5 that help them explore nature through seasonal, hands-on themes and activities. They also have family workshops and camps on their calendar, as well as their Bootanical Family Festival in the fall. It remains to be seen when these events will continue after the pandemic, but we’ll definitely keep an eye out and post them on our tot spot calendar!

Discovery Room

It also appears that they have an indoor discovery room inside the education center that is currently closed during the pandemic, but we can’t wait to visit once it reopens! According to the website the room features a wall-size mural with “I Spy” activity, cozy reading nook with a selection of rotating nature books, three-dimensional tree, an interactive felt wall, nature displays, and much more. Activities and displays will change seasonally, and the room is recommended for children under 10. Regular operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and on Sunday from 1:30-4 p.m.