Many of the 5 miles of allées, walks and pathways are suitable for people with physical challenges, and we are working to increase our accessibility throughout the Gardens.

The entrance allée from the Gothic gates to the Roney Fountain was re-graded in 2011, and the stairwell has been redesigned without its steep ramps. Instead, we have added a new, fully accessible path from the allée into the Rose Garden. We have also eliminated the step previously located in the entry to the Culberson Asiatic Arboretum from the Rose Garden. And we are working to make the Japanese Garden easier to access in a wheelchair.

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 slope changes are greater than 1 inch per foot, which exceeds requirements in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Some areas have steps, and some paths with loose gravel may be difficult for people who use wheelchairs. We would be happy to assist you in determining which paths are the easiest to navigate in a wheelchair.

Labels of various plants and foliage are easily visible. And there are shaded benches throughout the gardens, as well as water fountains in the Blomquist Garden, at the Fish Pool and in the Doris Duke Center.

Parking spaces designated for visitors with disabilities are located in the asphalt parking lot near the main entrance.

If you're interested in a guided tour, please see our tours page.

We hope you enjoy your visit.