Gain a deeper understanding of the plants, history and ecology of Duke Gardens through guided trolley and walking tours led by experienced docents.
Experience the beauty of the Gardens during this one-hour private trolley tour with a volunteer docent. You’ll see seasonal highlights and learn about the plants, history and ecology of the Gardens.
This tour provides an accessible way to experience the 55 acres of Duke Gardens. However, if you use a mobility assistance device, you must be able to transfer yourself independently into the trolley.
$60 flat fee
1-5 participants
Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
March to November availability
Please note that most trolley tours are booked months in advance.
Duke Gardens is not booking public trolley tours for the remainder of 2024. We apologize for the inconvenience.
If you have questions, please contact us at 919-668-1707 or GardensEducation@duke.edu.
Explore Duke Gardens on this one-hour walking tour with a volunteer docent. You’ll see seasonal highlights and learn about the plants, history and ecology of the Gardens. Tours may be booked in advance, and walk-ins are accepted March-May.
$15 per person
Maximum of 15 participants
Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.*
*1 p.m. tours are not available in July or August.
Duke Gardens is not booking public walking tours for the remainder of 2024. We apologize for the inconvenience.
If you have questions, please contact us at 919-668-1707 or GardensEducation@duke.edu.
Duke Gardens is working to increase accommodations for all visitors. Trained service animals are permitted on tours. All restrooms are accessible.
Yes! If the tour you want is booked, please sign up for the waitlist and you will be notified if the slot becomes available.
We suggest you bring a water bottle, sun protection and comfortable walking shoes.
We accept cancellations up to three days in advance of your reservation. You can change or cancel your reservation by selecting the “Add, change or cancel your tour reservation” link on the top right of the reservation page. Be prepared to fill in your email address and the confirmation number that you received by email when you registered for your previous tour. To receive a refund, you must contact us at 919-668-1707 or email your request to GardensEducation@duke.edu.
If you or any person in your group are experiencing any flu, Covid or other viral respiratory symptoms, please notify us immediately and we will reschedule or cancel your tour.
Tours will proceed rain or shine, with the exception of lightning. Please dress accordingly. Staff will reach out if the tour has been canceled due to weather. In the event of a cancellation, we will work with you to reschedule or refund your fee.
Registrants can pay online with a credit card. If you do not enter your payment information, you have not booked a tour. Payment is required. If your confirmation email does not include a tour date and time, then you have not paid for your tour.
Parking is available but limited. Duke University Parking & Transportation charges $2 per hour, daily, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Learn more on our parking information page.
Please email GardensEducation@duke.edu or call 919-668-1707.
Please contact us at 919-668-1707 or GardensEducation@duke.edu.