Happening upon a local arboretum
21 May
I like to explore on the weekends. On a rain Saturday last month, I was driving around trying to learn my way around Raleigh a little better, when I happened upon the JC Raulston Arboretum.
It was chilly and rainy, but I went inside the visitor’s center to see what it was all about. I was greeted by a sweet woman who briefly explained the whole layout of the gardens, the mission, etc. She handed me a map and I was on my way. 
The Arboretum is part of the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University and is used by students and staff for research and teaching, according to the Arboretum Web site. It’s a neat spot to wander around. Supposedly it’s open 365 days a year (from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. during April through October and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during November through March).
I need to stop back by on a sunny day and see what’s blooming. I also need to make a trip to Duke Gardens sometime soon for a picnic. Last week I told you about the hidden urban garden in Durham that I love. Are there any other cool, local gardens I need to check out?
I absolutely love this place! I get out there almost every week just to unwind. It is the most peaceful place I have found yet here in Raleigh.
My mom used to be curator of the lath house there, once upon a time, so I spent a good chunk of my childhood there.
When you’re at Duke – check out the area between the Chapel and the Bryan Center. Both the terrace and the pathway. And for architecture – check out the French Science Center. I’m not even much of a photographer and I always end up taking pictures of cool stuff in that facility.
sign me up for a visit to both gardens!
You should definitely check out the Rose Garden at the Raleigh Little Theater.
And I also like Fletcher park near Broughton High School.