Duke Gardens, at 420 Anderson Street in Durham, is considered one of the 10 top public gardens in the United States and is free to visit. It’s open every day, 365 days a year, from 8 a.m. to dusk. It features a rose garden, sundial and butterfly garden, terraces and fish pool, and much more.

In addition to the free admission every day (please note that there’s a small charge for parking) the gardens offer many events and some of them are free.

Important Note: Duke Gardens are temporarily closed to visitors. Enjoy the pictures and video in this post as you look forward to returning.

Scroll down to see a list of some of the upcoming free (virtual) events, and to see pictures of Duke Gardens in spring, summer and fall. There’s even a video we took in the winter.

Free Virtual Events with Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Virtual Walk on the Wild Side: Fungal Follow-Up
Thursday, February 4th, 2021
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Free (follow above link to register)

In this online Walk on the Wild Side, Maegan Luckett will expand on her earlier fungal talk by featuring the intersection between people and fungi, considering folklore, medicinal uses, fungal disease and a glimpse into some interesting plans for future use of fungi. Maegan is the horticulturist for the Blomquist Garden of Native Plants.
Free admission with advance registration.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens in the Winter

There’s no wrong time of year to visit Duke Gardens. In the winter, Duke Gardens provide an especially peaceful experience. There are plants in bloom every season, and in the winter you can enjoy them without any crowds.

There are endless paths to explore, and plenty of benches along the way to rest and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

Visiting Duke Gardens in the winter gives you a chance to notice the plants and landscaping that might get overshadowed by the wealth of flowers in the spring and summer.