Probably one of the most well laid out parks I’ve visited, and this was my first time visiting. The only bummer was that there were some areas closed off due to landscaping so I wasn’t able to get photos there, but this park is a nature enthusiast or photographer’s dream. There’s such a broad spectrum of plants throughout the garden that you just have to see. The ground along the paths are pretty even which makes for comfortable walking since you will find something eye catching down every path. I wasn’t planning on going on a misty day, but the photos I took still came out amazing. Would love to do photoshoots in this location.
Sasank Gadiko
Jul 31, 2023
5
Duke Gardens are a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of Durham, North Carolina. The gardens are home to a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees, from the Japanese Garden to the Discovery Garden. There are also walking trails, a lake, and a chapel.
The Japanese Garden was particularly stunning, with its koi pond, waterfalls, and bamboo groves. The Discovery Garden was also a lot of fun, with its interactive exhibits and play areas.
The gardens are free to visit, but there is a fee for parking. There is a small parking lot at the entrance to the gardens, but it can fill up quickly. There is also street parking available, but it can be difficult to find.
If you are visiting the gardens in the off-season, be aware that some of the trees may be dry and without flowers. However, the gardens are still worth a visit, as the beauty of the architecture and landscaping is still evident.
FayzieKay Wolf
Jul 23, 2023
5
Beautiful and expensive garden with an amazing variety of plants.
It's truly a paradise nestled in Durham.
Some water fountains located through our the park, lots of because for resting and observing the beauty surrounding you.
We strolled through the park for about 2 hours and saw most of the park.
Park is free, parking is $2 an hour
Sarah Mansell
Jul 20, 2023
5
The most beautiful botanical garden I have ever seen. If you’re visiting Durham, this is a MUST. My absolute favorite place for a nice long walk on nature, I am partial to the Japanese gardens. The grounds are maintained immaculately! Bring your dogs during off-peak hours, morning and evenings.
Chanchal
Jul 15, 2023
5
This place is awesome. Beautiful gardens and well decorated with various plants, flowers, birds, ponds, butterflies throughout the walk. A lovely pond with fishes and lotus. There is lake and great walk along the lake. This place is for whole family. Plenty of benches and a lawn. It has a small cafe inside, chapel and gift shop at the entrance. No entry fee but parking is $2 per hour. Restrooms are available. Gets busy during weekend.
John Turnbull
Jul 11, 2023
5
Nice walk through various regions themed gardens and woodland. Not busy, pay to park. Staff very helpful and polite. It has a children's discovery area with staff supervision indoors and out.
Great place to chill with tree coverage providing shade.
Areen dhoon
Jul 1, 2023
5
Yes, please go there and enjoy the breathtaking gardens. Different plants and flowers, they decorate everything in a beautiful way. It was super hot, but we enjoyed every single stop. The entry is free, but you have to pay 2 dollars/ hour for the parking.
paisleygirl
Jun 29, 2023
5
This place is amazing! Fun for the whole family if they are able to appreciate beauty. Notice: Wear walking or supportive sportswear because there's lots of different attractions and trails. Might be too large of a walking area for toddler's and young children.
Scottie Lipa
Jun 27, 2023
5
Went here Saturday before Father’s Day around 10am. Both parking lots at address were full but huge overflow parking just a couple houses down street.
One of the biggest and better botanical gardens we have been too. Lots to see and walk around. Plan 2 hours of walking. Had bathrooms onsite as well!
They should charge admission it’s that amazing, but all you pay is $2 parking. This is a must see for all at cost of free admission.
Benjamin Mangalam
Jun 6, 2023
5
This place was great for the family to walk around and see the growth of Duke Gardens. It's been a long time since I have been but first time for my kids. They really enjoyed the garden, the different flowers, plants, and trees. They really liked the waterfall and the Koi pond. Walking across the red ridge, the kids enjoyed themselves. Running in the grass and seeing the wildlife, the kids really liked how open the area was. The weather was perfect and it was not too crowded. The only cost was for the parking, $2 per hour.
Deidra
May 19, 2023
5
This place is such a beauty to behold! You literally feel like you enter a place of enchantment. There's various gardens with different themes. Many places to sit and enjoy your surroundings during your exploration. The gardens are massive, so rest areas are great! There's workers riding golf carts who you periodically see to answer any questions and give directions. Definitely an amazing experience.
Robin Mehera
May 12, 2023
5
It was a warm and sunny Friday afternoon, we both had off and decided to check out the duke gardens.
There was a few parking lots that were slammed but we were able to find parking without too much difficulty. It was about $4 for 2 hrs, so not terrible.
Upon entry we found out it was no cost to go, which is very cool.
The park overall is about 5 miles of walking if you do the full thing.
Compared to the NC arboretum this is much nicer and cleaner.
Plenty of great views and even a small refreshment shop with snacks and cold beverages.
10 out of 10 recommend, go here!
Arelys Delgado
May 8, 2023
5
Wow!! We were blown away by how beautiful and well kept everything was. You do have to have cash for parking. It was $2.00 per hour.
It would be a great place for family pictures and can’t wait to go back to have a picnic there. Lot’s of shade and areas to place picnic blanket and sit with the family.
They do have restrooms around the area and it is very helpful with little ones.
mustafees khan
Apr 19, 2023
5
I visited Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham, NC. The gardens are expansive, with over 55 acres of beautifully manicured grounds to explore.
Right from the parking, the entrance of the gardens, and once inside, I was able to find my way around and locate the various points of interest. The maps are easy to read and provide helpful information about the different areas of the gardens, including the different types of plants and flowers on display.
Among many other gardens, I really liked the iconic Rose Garden or the serene Japanese Garden. There is also a gift shop at the entrance.
The gardens are located in close proximity of the chapel and walk on the boulevard leading to Chapel will surely be something to cherish for years to come.
