Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, provides a captivating blend of art, history, and nature. Visitors can admire impressive sculptures, explore vast botanical gardens, and visit a dedicated zoo. Set on historic grounds, it’s an ideal destination for art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families alike.
Conveniently located near Huntington State Beach Park and Atalaya Castle, these attractions make an ideal combination of places to visit during a trip to Murrells Inlet, allowing visitors to enjoy both cultural and natural attractions in one outing. After you’ve booked your family a place to stay, it’s time to start planning your trip.
Let’s check out the many things to do in Brookgreen Gardens.
1. Explore the Renowned Sculpture Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens boasts the largest collection of American figurative sculptures in the nation, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. With over 2,000 pieces created by around 430 artists, the sculpture gardens offer a rich tapestry of styles and themes that reflect the diversity and creativity of American sculpture. Each piece tells a story, inviting visitors to delve deeper into the artist’s vision and the era in which it was created.
What truly elevates the experience is how the sculptures are seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape of Brookgreen Gardens. The careful design ensures that each piece enhances the surrounding flora, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature that captivates the senses. Whether you are an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the sculpture gardens at Brookgreen offer a tranquil and inspiring escape from the ordinary.
2. Experience the Lowcountry Zoo
A visit to Brookgreen Gardens would be incomplete without exploring the Lowcountry Zoo. This popular zoo provides a safe haven to protect its animals while offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation.
One of the highlights of the zoo is the ‘Mother Nature’s Cafe’ tour, a guided experience that lasts about 50 minutes and allows visitors to observe animal feeding behaviors. This tour not only provides fascinating insights into the lives of the animals but also showcases the dedication and passion of the zoo staff in ensuring the well-being of their residents.
The Lowcountry Zoo is more than just an attraction; it’s a testament to Brookgreen Gardens’ commitment to wildlife conservation and education.
3. Wander Through the Botanical Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens is not just about art and wildlife; it is also home to expansive botanical gardens that cover nearly 10,000 acres. These gardens are a haven for nature lovers, offering a diverse array of plant species and beautifully landscaped areas that invite visitors to explore and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Whether you are a botany enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the botanical gardens at Brookgreen provide a perfect setting for relaxation and reflection. The ideal time to visit for a peaceful experience is early morning, when the gardens are at their most serene.
A stroll through the botanical gardens is a feast for the senses. From vibrant flower beds to majestic trees and serene water features, every corner of the gardens offers something new to discover.
4. Join a Creek Excursion
From March 8 through November 23, visitors to Brookgreen Gardens can embark on a scenic Creek Excursion aboard a 48-foot pontoon boat.
This approximately 45-minute tour cruises through serene creeks, passing historic rice fields that have transformed into habitats for alligators, waterfowl, and osprey. An interpreter accompanies the excursion, offering insights into the distinctive landscape of the rice plantations and the significant role enslaved Africans played in cultivating rice and shaping the Lowcountry’s history.
Tickets for the Creek Excursion are priced at $12 for adults and $8 for children, in addition to general Gardens admission. Due to high demand and limited availability, boat ride tickets often sell out quickly, so it is strongly recommended to purchase them as soon as you arrive. Tickets can be bought same-day at the Gardener’s Cottage Information Center and the Lowcountry Center Information Desk, with purchases required at least one hour before the tour at Gardener’s Cottage and 15 minutes prior at the Lowcountry Center.
5. Attend Nighttime Events
The magic of Brookgreen Gardens doesn’t end when the sun sets. One of the most popular winter events is the Nights of a Thousand Candles, where over 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of sparkling lights transform the gardens into a winter wonderland. Guests can enjoy holiday music and evening acoustic performances from local bands, while a nightly tree lighting ceremony creates a festive and enchanting atmosphere.
In addition to this, Brookgreen Gardens hosts other nighttime events such as Art After Hours, which showcases illuminated art pieces and encourages visitors to enjoy dinner at Harvest Restaurant after the event. These special events offer a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty and creativity of Brookgreen Gardens under the night sky.
6. Savor Local Dining Options
No visit to Brookgreen Gardens is complete without savoring the diverse dining options available. Visitors can choose from several eateries, each offering a unique culinary experience. The Courtyard Cafe, located in the Lowcountry Center, serves a variety of salads, sandwiches, and wraps, making it a perfect spot for a light and refreshing meal.
For those looking for a more relaxed dining experience, The Old Kitchen offers a cozy porch area that overlooks the property gardens, providing a serene setting to enjoy a tasty meal.
Austin’s Harvest Restaurant, on the other hand, provides a full-service dining experience with both indoor and outdoor seating. Featuring fresh seafood, decadent meats, and Lowcountry specialties, Harvest Restaurant is ideal for those looking to indulge in a more elaborate meal.
7. Visit the Pollinator Playground
The Pollinator Playground at Brookgreen Gardens is an interactive area dedicated to educating visitors about the importance of pollinators in our ecosystem.
Accessible from May to September, this seasonal attraction provides families with a hands-on learning experience, highlighting how pollinators contribute to our environment. Activities include navigating a maze and participating in challenges that simulate the actions of various pollinators, making it both fun and educational.
Visiting the Pollinator Playground is a great way for families to connect with nature and understand the vital role of pollinators. This interactive space not only educates but also engages visitors, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the delicate balance required to sustain it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours for Brookgreen Gardens?
Brookgreen Gardens operates daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM, with gates closing at 4:30 PM for daytime admission.
Can I purchase tickets for the creek tour online?
Tickets for the boat tour must be purchased in person on the day of the tour, as they are not available for online or telephone sales.
What dining options are available in Brookgreen Gardens?
Brookgreen Gardens offers visitors a variety of dining options, including The Courtyard Cafe, The Old Kitchen, and Harvest Restaurant, each providing distinct culinary experiences ranging from light fare to full-service dining featuring fresh seafood and Lowcountry specialties.
When is the best time to visit the botanical gardens for a peaceful experience?
The best time to visit the botanical gardens for a peaceful experience is early morning, as this period offers a serene atmosphere with fewer visitors.
What makes the Nights of a Thousand Candles event so special?
The Nights of a Thousand Candles event is special due to its enchanting atmosphere, highlighted by over 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of lights. This magical experience, complemented by holiday music and live performances, captivates visitors, making it a memorable celebration.
Enjoy Your Visit to Brookgreen Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens is a treasure trove of experiences that seamlessly blend art, history, and nature. From the awe-inspiring sculpture gardens and captivating Lowcountry Zoo to the tranquil botanical gardens and engaging educational programs, there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re attending a special event, savoring the diverse dining options, or exploring unique exhibitions, Brookgreen Gardens offers a memorable adventure that leaves a lasting impression. Plan your visit today and discover the beauty and wonder that await you at Brookgreen Gardens.
Looking for more fun things to do in Murrells Inlet? Read our in-depth guide to the area.