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Brookgreen Gardens and its collection

Brookgreen Gardens
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Brookgreen Gardens, located in South Carolina, is a unique blend of art, nature, and history. Founded in 1932 by Archer Milton Huntington and his wife, Anna Hyatt Huntington, the gardens serve as a sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. The couple's vision was to create a space that showcased American figurative sculptures, including works by Anna and her sister Harriet Randolph Hyatt Mayor, among others. Today, the gardens continue to fulfill this vision, offering visitors a chance to explore the beauty of art and nature in one location.

Attractions at Brookgreen Gardens

Spanning over 9,100 acres, Brookgreen Gardens offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. The property includes several themed gardens, each showcasing a different aspect of the region's flora and fauna. Additionally, the Lowcountry Zoo provides a chance to see native wildlife up close. For those interested in exploring the natural beauty of the area, there are trails that wind through various ecosystems within the nature reserves on the property.

Sculpture Collection at Brookgreen Gardens

Brookgreen Gardens holds the distinction of being the country's first public sculpture garden. It boasts the largest collection in the world of figurative sculpture by American artists in an outdoor setting. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to appreciate the art in a natural environment, enhancing the overall experience. The sculptures are linked by walkways and garden paths, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and discover the art in its distinctive garden, fountain, or landscape settings.

Exploring History through the Lowcountry Trail

The Lowcountry Trail at Brookgreen Gardens offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the area's history. This boardwalk crosses the hillside overlooking Mainfield, a restored rice field of the former Brookgreen Plantation. Along the trail, interpretive panels describe life on a rice plantation, providing a glimpse into the past. Additionally, the Lowcountry Trail Audio Tour is a public education program that emphasizes historic preservation, allowing visitors to learn more about the history of the area while enjoying the natural beauty of the gardens.

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Art & Design Art & Design History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Animals Botanical garden Contemporary art Garden & Park Historic house Modern art Open air Zoo

#1 Art & Design in Murrells Inlet #8 Art & Design in South Carolina #38 History & Anthropology in South Carolina #6 Animal museums in South Carolina #4 Botanical gardens in South Carolina #3 Contemporary art museums in South Carolina #8 Gardens & parks in South Carolina #32 Historic houses in South Carolina #3 Modern art museums in South Carolina #2 Open air museums in South Carolina #7 Zoos in South Carolina #168 Open air museums in United States

#1 Art & Design in Murrells Inlet #8 Art & Design in South Carolina #38 History & Anthropology in South Carolina #6 Animal museums in South Carolina #4 Botanical gardens in South Carolina #3 Contemporary art museums in South Carolina #8 Gardens & parks in South Carolina #32 Historic houses in South Carolina #3 Modern art museums in South Carolina #2 Open air museums in South Carolina #7 Zoos in South Carolina #168 Open air museums in United States

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Brookgreen Gardens
1931 Brookgreen Dr
South Carolina

Images of Brookgreen Gardens

Visitor information Brookgreen Gardens

Opening hours

Monday
9:30 – 17:00
Tuesday
9:30 – 17:00
Wednesday
9:30 – 17:00
Thursday
9:30 – 17:00
Friday
9:30 – 17:00
Saturday
9:30 – 17:00
Sunday
9:30 – 17:00
More opening hours

Admission

0 – 3Free
4 – 12$12.00
13 – 64$22.00
65+$20.00
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Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Brookgreen Gardens.

Location & Map

1931 Brookgreen Dr, Murrells Inlet

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Brookgreen Gardens have been found.

Brookgreen Gardens Reviews

Brookgreen Gardens has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, United States, is a highly regarded outdoor museum that combines art, nature, and history. Visitors consistently praise the expansive gardens, which feature a diverse collection of native plants and trees. The sculpture garden is a highlight, showcasing an impressive array of American figurative sculptures set against beautifully landscaped backdrops.

    Many guests appreciate the well-maintained walking paths that wind through various themed gardens, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the grounds. The Lowcountry Zoo and native wildlife exhibits add an educational component, offering insights into local fauna.

    The seasonal events, such as the popular Night of a Thousand Candles during the holiday season, receive high marks for their beauty and atmosphere. Visitors often comment on the knowledgeable staff and volunteers who enhance the experience with informative talks and tours.

    Some visitors note that the size of the gardens can be overwhelming, and recommend allocating plenty of time or planning multiple visits to fully appreciate all the offerings. A few mention that the admission price, while generally considered fair for the experience, might be steep for some budgets.

    The on-site restaurant receives mixed reviews, with some praising the food quality and others finding it average. However, this is a minor point in the overall positive experience.

    In summary, Brookgreen Gardens is widely regarded as a cultural and natural treasure, offering a blend of art, horticulture, and wildlife that appeals to a broad range of interests and ages.

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