Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway between mileposts 364 and 365, Craggy Gardens is a must-see, especially in early June, when the Catawba Rhododendron is in full bloom creating a spectacular mountain-sized bouquet of color. A further 2 miles up the Parkway at milepost 367.6 is the Craggy Gardens Picnic Area, ideal for a bite to eat surrounded by gorgeous scenery.

The 380-acre Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden caters to all ages from its Orchid Conservatory filled with beautiful orchids to the child friendly carousel in the Lost Hollows. The well-manicured paths take you through themed gardens with stunning fountains and several benches to sit back and enjoy the surroundings. The garden holds many special events throughout the year, from concerts in the amphitheater to bird and horticultural walks and their famous Holiday At The Garden where the garden magically lights up in the evenings during the holiday season.

Featuring a large variety of rhododendrons and local plants, the Botanical Gardens at UNC is a little known gem in Charlotte. Although located right on campus the Garden seems to be an oasis of tranquility among the hectic university life. Also part of the Garden is the McMillen Greenhouse with its six themed collections, including prehistoric vegetation, carnivorous plants and beautiful orchids.

Adjacent to Pisgah National Forest and just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 393, the North Carolina Arboretum is located in one of the most beautiful settings in the area. Wonderful exhibitions, an extensive bonsai collection and multiple trails let visitors spend a couple of hours at the Arboretum and enjoy the picturesque scenery.