Handbook of South Carolina's Gardens

Azalea Park

Boone Hall Plantation

Brookgreen Gardens

Brookgreen Gardens is a National Historic Landmark with one of the most significant collections of figurative sculpture by American artists in the world.

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

Charles Towne Landing has several small gardens scattered throughout the park.

Cypress Gardens

Located near Goose Creek and Moncks Corner, the Cypress Gardens offer visitors the experience of being with nature as they explore the swamp on flat bottom boats or wander on meandering trails.

Edisto Memorial Gardens

Just west of downtown Orangeburg are the Edisto Memorial Gardens, which feature hundreds of species of roses, as well as wisteria, dogwoods, azaleas, and crape myrtle. There is plenty to see and do here.

Falls Park

This recreation area has several gardens, terraces, walking paths, and an amphitheater.

Glencairn Garden

Located in a residential section of Rock Hill, SC is a very attractive botanical garden with fountains, bridges, grassy areas, trees, flowers, and walking paths. The peak bloom period runs from the last week of March to the middle of April.

Hampton Park

Hopelands Gardens

When you first step into Hopelands Gardens, you immediately get the feeling that you are in a different world. Magnificent old trees tower over the main entrance path, where you can see grassy fields, flower beds, Magnolia trees, and an old horse stable. From there, many miles of paths lead you around the park thru a wide variety of environments. Along the way, you will find ponds, fountains, wetlands, old houses, museums, amphitheaters, and a rope swing. There is even a touch-and-feel walkway with braille signs.

Kalmia Gardens

The Kalmia Gardens in Hartsville feature many species of plants, flowers, herbs, and greenery. Just behind them is a series of trails and boardwalks where you can view the Black Creek and the swamp.

Lucas Park

Located in an upscale neighborhood, Lucas Park offers a pleasant landscape of trees, gardens and nature trails. Timrod Park is only a few blocks away.

Mepkin Abbey

The Nancy Bryan Luce Gardens at Mepkin Abbey offer guests a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the views.

Middleton Place

On the banks of the Ashley River you will find Middleton Place, a carefully preserved plantation dating from the 18^th century. You can visit the house and the stableyards, and also see America's oldest landscaped gardens.

Riverbanks Botanical Garden

The world-famous Riverbanks Zoo and Garden features dozens of species of plants, with brick walkways, a flowing waterfall, a fountain, and a pavillion. There is also a rose garden.

Swan Lake — Iris Gardens

The Swan Lake and Iris Gardens combine twenty-five species of Japanese irises and swans from around the world in a natural setting. From late May into June is usually the best time to view the iris.

Timrod Park

Timrod Park includes picnic areas, a gazebo, gardens, interpretive nature trails, and much more. Lucas Park is only a few blocks away.

Waterfront Park

This very attractive park in downtown Charleston has a spectacular view of the Cooper River.

Wells Japanese Garden

This is a very small but attractive park in downtown Newberry, SC. Originally built as a private garden, it features two ponds with ornamental bridges and plants.

White Point Gardens and the Battery

Located in the heart of Charleston's historic district, this prominent landmark provides a spectacular view of Charleston Harbor, where the Ashley and Cooper Rivers empty into the Atlantic Ocean. It was first used as a public garden in 1837.