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The Community Arboretum

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Welcome to the Community Arboretum in Roanoke, VA, a serene 2.5-acre public garden situated on the picturesque campus of Virginia Western Community College. The purpose of the arboretum is to provide a living laboratory for students and the community to further understand ecological processes, botanical relationships, and horticultural practices in a beautiful setting.

The arboretum features ten separate gardens and plant collections that surround a centrally located amphitheater, home to approximately 700 labeled plant taxa. The garden collections include a Children’s Garden with a plant maze and plant zoo, a vibrant butterfly garden, a fragrant herb garden, and stunning perennial borders, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and horticulture lovers alike.

As a living laboratory, the Community Arboretum offers an educational platform for horticulture students while providing the community a tranquil retreat. Visitors can enjoy educational programs, workshops, and seasonal events designed to inspire and educate about horticulture and sustainable gardening practices.

Open to the public with free admission every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, the Community Arboretum is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy its beauty.

Discover more about the Community Arboretum in Roanoke, VA, and plan a visit today!

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Directions
Directions
  • Directions: I-81 to Exit 143 (Route 581/220). Take Colonial Avenue exit. Turn left at light onto Colonial Avenue. Go through 2 stoplights. VWCC campus is located on both sides of Colonial Avenue.
  • Major Access Routes: I-581, US 220
Facility Info
Meeting Rooms
Facility Info
  • DescriptionVWCC has several facilities available for rental, including: classrooms, Community Arboretum, computer labs, conference rooms, gymnasium, Natural Science Center, & the Whitman Theater.
  • Reception Capacity75
  • Theatre Capacity300
  • Type of Space Indoor & Outdoor Space
  • Banquet Capacity50
  • Number of Rooms2
  • Classroom Capacity40
Whitman Auditorium
  • Theater Capacity: 270
  • Amphitheater Present:
Charles Downs Natural Science Center
  • Theater Capacity: 75
  • Classroom Capacity: 50
  • Banquet Capacity: 35
Gymnasium
  • Theater Capacity: 400
Community Aboritum
  • Banquet Capacity: 150