The Arboretum’s gardens, trails, woodlands, meadows and streams provide ideal locations for students to experience the wonders of the natural world in a safe environment. Indoor exhibits at the Baker Exhibit Center and Education Center  compliment these outdoor experiences and guarantee each teacher’s curriculum goals are met during the visit.

Two options are available to students who visit the Arboretum.

  • The Guided Visit option includes an educator leading one or more programs.
  • The Self-guided Visit is an option to visit with a teacher or adult leader providing program material.

Project Explore (Experience Promoting Learning Outdoors for Research and Education) is a free, citizen science-driven school outreach initiative developed by The North Carolina Arboretum that provides outdoor education techniques for teachers. Click here to learn more

Project EXPLORE Students Featured on WLOS-TV

Students from Avery's Creek Elementary School in Arden, N.C., showcase the benefits of the Arboretum's Project EXPLORE program and how learning outside helps retain science curriculum.