| Story and photos by Beverly Hurley |
From Murphy to Manteo, North Carolina is home to a variety of vibrant cities, each with its own unique charm. Whenever I travel across the state, I seek out places with gardens to enjoy. Here are just a few favorites.
CHARLOTTE: A GARDEN ESCAPE AMID THE URBAN BUZZ
Known for its iconic skyline, culinary scene, and major league sports, Charlotte is also a city rich in botanical beauty. A must-see on my list is the Elizabeth Lawrence House & Garden, the former home and botanical laboratory of this pioneering garden writer and landscape architect. Lawrence, the first woman to graduate with a landscape architecture degree from NC State, filled her garden with 1,500 plant varieties. I love the way the pathways intersect, guiding me through the garden where plants spill over the beds in a seemingly natural way.
Just down the street, Wing Haven Garden & Bird Sanctuary awaits. This charming garden was once the home of Elizabeth and Edwin Clarkson, and it continues to thrive as a sanctuary for bird and plant lovers alike. Brick paths lead visitors through lush landscapes filled with azaleas, camellias, weeping cherries, and chaste trees. The springtime burst of color is breathtaking. Wing Haven will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026…