The Story of Stone in the Culberson Asiatic Arboretum

Date: Tue, Nov 17, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Venue: Duke Gardens–Barnes Welcome Center, Durham

Price: $22

Category: Outdoors

Join Paul Jones, founding curator of the Culberson Asiatic Arboretum, for a walking tour of some of the most iconic stone features found in the arboretum. You’ll hear the stories behind the stone, including traditional stone lanterns, pathways, waterfalls and lichen-covered boulders that blend seamlessly into the landscape. Hear why specific boulders were chosen and how they were placed, and learn more about the design intent. You'll discover how a single carefully positioned rock can anchor an entire landscape, and how the interplay of stone, water and plants creates a sense of harmony that feels both timeless and deeply intentional. Fee: $22; free for Duke Gardens members with discount code. Parking: Parking fees apply. Location: Meet at the Barnes Welcome Center. Accessibility: This will be a small group program that takes place outdoors, traveling on a combination of paved and unpaved paths with some uneven surfaces and moderate inclines.