Brookgreen Gardens
A world-class sculpture garden and botanical oasis, Brookgreen Gardens blends art, history, and nature on a vast, beautiful estate.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light displays
Brookgreen Gardens
Best Time
Magical light displays
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-class sculpture garden and botanical oasis, Brookgreen Gardens blends art, history, and nature on a vast, beautiful estate.
"It's not just a garden — it's this huge mix of art, history, and nature all in one spot."
Book Holiday Tickets Early! :ticket:
Night of a Thousand Candles sells out fast! Book online months in advance for this popular event.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the vast grounds. Prioritize comfort for exploring!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Oaks of Whispering Oaks
Live Oak Allée
Walk beneath ancient, moss-draped live oaks, some over 250 years old, creating a truly enchanting Southern atmosphere.
Sculpture Masterpieces
Various Garden Areas
Discover one of the finest collections of American figurative sculpture in the world, seamlessly integrated into the landscape.
Night of a Thousand Candles
Throughout the Gardens
Experience a breathtaking holiday spectacle with millions of twinkling lights and thousands of hand-lit candles.
The Enchanted Storybook Forest
Children's Area
A whimsical wonderland with fairy-tale themed playhouses, perfect for sparking imagination in young visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Magic
Embrace the Scale and Scope
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Holiday Tickets Early! :ticket:
Night of a Thousand Candles sells out fast! Book online months in advance for this popular event.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the vast grounds. Prioritize comfort for exploring!
Multi-Day Passes Available :calendar:
Tickets are valid for multiple days, allowing you to explore at your own pace without rushing.
QR Codes for Info :iphone:
Scan QR codes throughout the gardens for fascinating details about sculptures and plants.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Holiday Tickets Early! :ticket:
Night of a Thousand Candles sells out fast! Book online months in advance for this popular event.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the vast grounds. Prioritize comfort for exploring!
Multi-Day Passes Available :calendar:
Tickets are valid for multiple days, allowing you to explore at your own pace without rushing.
QR Codes for Info :iphone:
Scan QR codes throughout the gardens for fascinating details about sculptures and plants.
Check for Special Events :sparkles:
Brookgreen hosts various exhibitions and events year-round, from art shows to seasonal light displays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Brookgreen Gardens for its breathtaking beauty, vastness, and the unique blend of art, nature, and history. The well-maintained grounds, informative volunteers, and diverse attractions like the sculpture gardens and zoo are frequently highlighted as major draws. While admission is considered worthwhile, some may find the sheer scale overwhelming for a single visit.
"Brookgreen Gardens is hands down one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. It’s not just a garden — it’s this huge mix of art, history, and nature all in one spot. The sculptures are incredible, and the way they’re placed throughout the gardens makes every turn feel like a surprise. The live oaks draped in Spanish moss give it such a peaceful, Southern charm vibe that you can’t really find anywhere else.
The place is massive, so it’s easy to spend hours wandering around without ever getting bored. Between the botanical gardens, the sculptures, the zoo area, and the history woven into the property, there’s something for everyone. It’s super well maintained, and you can tell a lot of pride goes into keeping it beautiful.
Definitely worth the admission price, and honestly a must-see if you’re anywhere near the Myrtle Beach area. Whether you’re into art, photography, or just want a relaxing day outdoors, Brookgreen Gardens delivers in every way."
Brian Slawson
"Gardens and exhibits were outstanding and should be for $25pp entry price. The variety and history of sculptures are truly staggering. We spent hours exploring the grounds. Most of the volunteers were welcoming, gracious and incredibly informative. Since we don’t agree with animal captivity, we didn’t see the zoo, but understand it to be more of a conservation effort than caged exploitation. Admission passes are good for a week, which is helpful with so much to absorb. A rich experience, highly recommended."
McV
"Absolutely GORGEOUS to see. I've always come to Myrtle since I was a little girl and this is the first time I've gone to see the gardens. We went early evening and stayed to see everything lit up and the giant Lilies bloom. Both beautiful at Night and day. The staff are all super nice and helpful in giving directions and insight about the area or pieces that are a must-see. We will definitely be back to bask in the beauty of these gardens!"
Lilly M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brookgreen Gardens is located at 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, SC. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. It's about a 30-40 minute drive south of Myrtle Beach.
Public transportation options are limited in this area. Driving is the most convenient way to reach Brookgreen Gardens. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
From Myrtle Beach, take US-17 South towards Murrells Inlet. Turn right onto Brookgreen Drive. The gardens will be on your left.
Yes, Brookgreen Gardens offers plentiful free parking for visitors.
Yes, Brookgreen Gardens is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Charleston, making it a feasible day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is around $25 for adults and $17 for children over 3. Children under 3 are free. Prices can vary for special events.
Yes, your admission ticket is typically valid for seven consecutive days, allowing you to revisit and explore more.
While tickets can sometimes be purchased at the gate, it's highly recommended to buy them online in advance, especially for popular events like 'Night of a Thousand Candles,' as they can sell out.
Operating hours vary seasonally and for special events. It's best to check the official Brookgreen Gardens website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Discounts may be available for seniors, military, or groups. Check the official website or inquire at the ticket counter. Local residents often have membership options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Brookgreen Gardens features a world-class sculpture garden, diverse botanical gardens, a Lowcountry zoo focused on native animals, and historical exhibits.
Absolutely! Kids will love the Enchanted Storybook Forest, the zoo area, and the open spaces to run and play.
Yes, photography is encouraged! The gardens and sculptures offer endless beautiful photo opportunities.
Yes, Brookgreen Gardens offers various tours, including garden walks and boat tours, led by knowledgeable guides. Check their schedule for availability.
This is a spectacular holiday event where the gardens are illuminated with millions of lights and thousands of candles, creating a magical atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Brookgreen Gardens has a cafe and a restaurant offering a variety of food and beverages. You can also bring your own picnic to enjoy in designated areas.
The dining options typically include casual fare like sandwiches, salads, and snacks, as well as more substantial meals at the restaurant, often featuring Southern-inspired dishes.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own picnic lunches and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in designated picnic areas.
While menus can change, most cafes and restaurants offer some vegetarian options. It's advisable to check the current menu or ask staff for specific dietary accommodations.
Alcoholic beverages may be available for purchase at the on-site restaurant, especially during special events. Check their policies for details.
📸 📸 Photography
The Live Oak Allée, the Reflection Pool, the various sculpture gardens, and the themed areas like the Enchanted Storybook Forest offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Typically, drone usage is restricted in public gardens and parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check Brookgreen Gardens' specific drone policy.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Evening events like 'Summer Light' and 'Night of a Thousand Candles' provide unique, magical lighting.
While generally welcoming to photographers, professional or commercial shoots may require permits. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing the exhibits.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and sculptures. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the oak trees, and a macro lens is useful for plant details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With vast open spaces, kids have plenty of room to run and explore. The multi-day ticket option is also a plus, allowing families to break up their visit and avoid overexertion. Don't forget to check out the interactive QR codes for fun facts that can engage younger visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light. The evening events, 'Night of a Thousand Candles' and 'Summer Light: Art by Night,' provide unique opportunities for capturing magical, illuminated scenes.
+1Art & History Buffs
The historical significance of the rice plantations that once occupied the land is also palpable. The gardens themselves are a living testament to the region's past, offering a glimpse into the natural and cultural heritage of the Lowcountry. The rotating exhibits in the main gallery add another layer of artistic discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Brookgreen Gardens
Key artists featured include Anna Hyatt Huntington, the founder of Brookgreen, whose works are prominent throughout the grounds. The collection spans various periods and styles, offering a comprehensive look at American sculpture. The placement of each piece is deliberate, designed to enhance both the artwork and its surroundings. Many visitors find the experience of discovering sculptures unexpectedly as they explore the gardens to be a highlight.
Beyond the permanent collection, Brookgreen Gardens also hosts temporary exhibitions and features a main gallery near the entrance that rotates its displays every few months. This ensures that even repeat visitors can discover new artistic treasures. The integration of art with the botanical and historical aspects of the gardens makes for a truly multi-faceted cultural experience.
Exploring the Botanical Wonders
A significant feature is the Live Oak Allée, where ancient live oaks, some over 250 years old, are draped in Spanish moss, creating an iconic and breathtaking Southern landscape. Walking beneath these majestic trees feels like stepping back in time. The gardens are designed to be enjoyed year-round, with different sections coming into their own during various seasons.
For those interested in conservation and native ecosystems, the Lowcountry Zoo within Brookgreen Gardens is a must-visit. It focuses on animals native to the region, providing an educational experience about local wildlife and their habitats. This commitment to native flora and fauna underscores Brookgreen's dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Magical Evening Experiences
+1During the summer months, the 'Summer Light: Art by Night' exhibition offers another magical evening adventure. This event features various light installations scattered throughout the sculpture gardens, turning familiar paths into glowing art displays. It's a unique way to experience the gardens and the art in a completely different light.
+1These evening events are incredibly popular and often sell out, so booking tickets well in advance is crucial. They provide a distinct and memorable way to appreciate the beauty of Brookgreen Gardens, combining natural splendor with artistic illumination.
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