Escape the hustle and bustle of the Grand Strand and immerse yourself in the beauty of Brookgreen Gardens. Located about 35 minutes south of Dunes Village Resort in Murrells Inlet, the serenity you’ll find at Brookgreen Gardens is worth the drive. Visitors young and old can appreciate the magic of Brookgreen while gallivanting their many gardens, butterfly houses, and an on-site zoo.
Botanical Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens’ main attraction is their charming Botanical Gardens. The gardens are a massive 9,127 acres, with enormous Live Oak Trees, native plants, and blooming flowers year-round. There are several different gardens to explore including the Kitchen Garden, Brenda W. Rosen Carolina Terrace Garden, Palmetto Garden (named after South Carolina’s state tree), Nana and Papa’s garden, the butterfly garden, and the Dorthy P. Peace Garden Room for Children.
American Sculptures
The largest collection of American sculptures in the country resides at Brookgreen Gardens. It features over 2,000 sculptures from over 430 sculptors, from as early as the 19th century. Most of the sculptures can be found at the Bleifeld Gallery, showcasing the work of both historic and contemporary sculptors. Visitors may also want to peruse the Offner Sculpture Learning & Research Center. Once a storage facility for the garden staff, the Offner Sculpture Learning & Research Center, is now a showcase for the many intricate and ornate works of art available for the public to see.
Lowcountry Zoo
The Lowcountry Zoo, just one of the five accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in SC, features native animals that inhabit the woods, swamps, and waters of the south. Visitors will see alligators, foxes, bald eagles, deer, horses, sheep, and more! If you’re looking for an interactive experience, try the “Mother Nature’s Cafe”, a 50-minute guided tour where the resident animals are fed a snack while you observe. Mother Nature’s Cafe is included in the garden’s admission and starts at the plantation barn, along the Lowcountry Trail.
Brookgreen Events
The Butterfly House
During the months of April through October, the Butterfly House is open to visitors. A must-see, the Butterfly House is home to hundreds of different butterfly species floating around the exhibit. Admission into the Butterfly House is not included in general admission. You can purchase admission for an additional $4 per adult and $3 per child.
Night of a Thousand Candles
The event that draws many visitors from far and wide is Night of a Thousand Candles. In December, Brookgreen Gardens come to life in the evening with thousands of hand-lit candles and twinkling lights emitting their glow. Tickets are $20 per adult and $12 per child, be sure to buy your tickets in advance!
Brookgreen Garden is the host to many events throughout the year. Check their event calendar for events happening during your stay!
Frequently Asked Questions:
General admission for Brookgreen Gardens $18 per adult, $10 per child (4-12), and $16 per senior (65+).
The gardens are open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm and typically take up to 3 hours to tour.
While pets are not allowed on the premises, service animals trained to assist disabled persons are welcome.