Duke Gardens strives to welcome all visitors.
Accessibility During Construction
The Garden Gateway is a transformational expansion and renovation project that will greatly enhance accessibility at Duke Gardens. Construction is now underway and expected to be finished in Spring 2026.
During the construction period, the grounds of Duke Gardens are open, but the main entrance at 420 Anderson Street is closed and there is no access to the Doris Duke Center and the Gardens’ parking lots. Public parking is available to visitors on weekends only in the nearby Duke University H lot, located on Anderson Street and Yearby Avenue.
Accommodation Assistance
Duke Gardens is working with Duke Access and Accommodation Services to provide accessible accommodations during the construction period. If you are planning a visit and need accommodation assistance, please email us at gardens@duke.edu at least 5 days ahead of your visit.
Garden Access
Duke Gardens is located in a ravine and was designed, for the most part, decades ago, so there are many changes in slope throughout the gardens. Some path slope changes exceed the 5 percent standard set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Some areas have steps, and some paths with loose gravel may be difficult for people who use wheelchairs. Duke Gardens does not provide mobility assistance devices for visitor use.
Before entering the Gardens, please be sure to stop by our visitor kiosk for a map that shows the most accessible routes among the Gardens’ 5 miles of allées, walks and pathways. We have improved our accessibility considerably in the last few years, including the entry allée, and we will continue to make the Gardens increasingly accessible and enjoyable for all visitors.
Labels of various plants and foliage are easily visible. There are shaded benches throughout the gardens, as well as drinking fountains at the Fish Pool, in the Ruth Mary Meyer Japanese Garden and in the Charlotte Brody Discovery Garden. Duke Gardens does not offer wheelchair rentals.
Restrooms equipped with accessible features are located next to the Lewis St. pedestrian entrance.
Questions about accessibility at Duke Gardens?
Please contact us at 919-684-3698 or gardens@duke.edu.