Brookgreen Gardens

Nestled amidst the moss-draped charm of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, lies a jewel where art and nature intertwine. Brookgreen Gardens, a haven just a short drive (about 17 miles) from the bustling beaches of North Myrtle Beach, unfolds across a breathtaking 9,000 acres. Designated a National Historic Landmark, it’s a tapestry woven with vibrant native flora, fascinating fauna, and the soul-stirring artistry of American sculpture.

Drive through the grand entrance marked by the iconic “Fighting Stallions,” sculpted by founder Anna Hyatt Huntington herself. Within, a world unfolds, where history whispers through the Lowcountry landscapes. Immerse yourself in the world’s most significant collection of figurative sculpture by American artists, displayed in the lush botanical gardens, and four galleries. Each piece tells a story, capturing the essence of the nation’s artistic spirit.

Journey back in time as you explore the remnants of 1800s rice plantations and delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of enslaved Africans who shaped the region’s history. Walk the Lowcountry Trail and visit the Floyd Family Farm exhibit to see domestic animal breeds that would have been found on farms in the 1800s.

But Brookgreen Gardens offers more than just a glimpse into the past. The Lowcountry Zoo Native Animal Habitat provides guests a chance to encounter the wonders of the South’s wildlife. For little adventurers, the Butterfly House, Children’s Storybook Forest, and the Peace Garden Room for Children offer enchanting discoveries. Let them chase butterflies, explore hidden pathways, and lose themselves in the joy of nature’s playground.

Explore the gardens at your own pace, be it on foot, by boat tour, or on one of our excursions into the surrounding nature preserves.

Beyond the natural beauty, Brookgreen Gardens comes alive with seasonal celebrations and events. Check out Summer Light: Art By Night, the annual Harvest Home Weekend in October, or witness the magical Nights of a Thousand Candles in December. (Get your tickets early – sales begin in August and the event sells out fast!)

So, escape the ordinary and step into a world of artistic expression and natural wonders. Brookgreen Gardens awaits, a sanctuary for the soul, beckoning you to explore, discover, and reconnect with the beauty that surrounds us.