If you’re looking for a place that feels like stepping into a living postcard—complete with storybook gardens, marble statues, and slow-moving butterflies—Brookgreen Gardens is it. Nestled between Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island, this 9,000-acre cultural and botanical treasure is part sculpture garden, part wildlife preserve, and part historic rice plantation, all rolled into one awe-inspiring Lowcountry escape.
It’s the kind of place where you’ll find a bronze ballerina mid-pirouette in a field of blooming azaleas, or a heron gliding over a misty pond at sunrise. Brookgreen isn’t just a walk in the park—it’s a full-on sensory experience, rich with Southern charm, quiet wonder, and more than a few unexpected surprises.
What We Love
Stunning Sculpture Trails
Brookgreen is home to the largest collection of American figurative sculpture in the country. You’ll stroll past fountains, reflecting pools, and grand lawns dotted with over 2,000 works of art—from classical nudes to whimsical animals—all seamlessly woven into the landscape.
Seasonal Blooms And Botanical Magic
Each season brings its own burst of color. Come spring, the gardens explode with daffodils, dogwoods, and wisteria. Summer means roses and hydrangeas, while fall shows off vibrant foliage. Even winter has its charm with crisp air and moss-draped trees.
The Lowcountry Zoo
Yes, there’s a zoo—and it’s no afterthought. Brookgreen’s accredited wildlife exhibit focuses on native species like alligators, red foxes, river otters, and owls. It’s a quiet, shaded loop where animals roam in large, natural habitats, and it’s especially perfect for families.
Creek Cruises With A Story
Hop aboard a pontoon boat for a narrated ride through historic rice fields turned tidal creeks. You’ll spot osprey, gators, and maybe even dolphins, all while learning how this land helped shape Southern history.
Evening Events And Seasonal Sparkle
From summer night garden walks to the beloved “Nights of a Thousand Candles” holiday event, Brookgreen lights up—literally. If you time your visit right, the already enchanting grounds become downright magical after dark.
Atmosphere & Setting
There’s a timeless calm that settles over Brookgreen Gardens. Spanish moss sways in the breeze, birds sing from the treetops, and classical music sometimes drifts softly from hidden speakers. The grounds are immaculately maintained but never feel fussy—more like an elegant secret garden than a formal estate. You’ll wander past ancient oaks, quiet reflecting pools, and wide lawns that seem made for picnics and pause-worthy moments. It’s peaceful, poetic, and just a little bit mysterious.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Tickets are around $22 for adults, and your admission is good for seven consecutive days—an excellent deal considering the size and scope of what’s offered. You can spend as little as two hours or stretch it into multiple days with garden strolls, boat rides, and zoo visits. It’s especially great for couples, day-trippers, photographers, retirees, and families with older kids who enjoy slow-paced exploration.
Trip Advisor / Destination_Partners
Other Considerations
Bring good walking shoes—the gardens are expansive, and while there are trams, much of the magic is on foot. Shade is plentiful, but summer heat and bugs can be intense, so pack sunscreen, water, and repellent. The on-site restaurant offers solid Southern fare, and there’s a lovely gift shop worth browsing. Brookgreen is mostly wheelchair-accessible, and friendly volunteers are always nearby to help or share a story.
Whether you’re chasing blooms, beauty, or just a break from the beach crowds, Brookgreen Gardens offers a graceful escape into the natural and artistic soul of the South. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to revisit—and each time, you’ll find something new.
Brookgreen Gardens
📍 1931 Brookgreen Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576-5072