Brookgreen Gardens

The Basics

Brookgreen Gardens is equal parts botanical garden, American sculpture garden, and zoological park. A general admission ticket gets you into all areas, including the Lowcountry Zoo where native animals of South Carolina’s swamps and woods—alligators, red foxes, river otters, and white-tailed deer—live in enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. With some 2,000 sculptures by 425 artists, the Brookgreen Gardens collection represents the largest and most comprehensive American figurative sculpture collection in the United States.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Brookgreen Gardens is great for couples, families traveling with kids, and nature lovers.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.

• Don’t forget to bring sun protection and insect repellent.

• The garden is wheelchair accessible, but wheelchairs are not available to rent.

How to Get There

The gardens are located off US Highway 17 Bypass between Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island. The closest international airport is in Myrtle Beach, 13 miles (21 kilometers) northwest of Murrells Inlet.

When to Get There

The gardens are open daily throughout the year, and there’s always something in bloom no matter the season. Spring is typically the most popular time to visit, when azaleas, daffodils, poppies, and snapdragons are in bloom. If you visit during the summer, plan to arrive early while temperatures are still cool.

Lowcountry History and Wildlife Preserve

The land occupied by Brookgreen Gardens once comprised four Lowcountry rice plantations during the 1800s. These thousands of acres are now part of a history and wildlife preserve overseen by the garden, where visitors can learn about the natural and human history of the area by walking The Lowcountry Trail or taking a boat or vehicle excursion into the park.

How long of a walk is Brookgreen Gardens?

The Brookgreen Gardens Loop is 1.4 miles long (2.25km), and it takes most walkers about 30 minutes to complete. That being said, Brookgreen Gardens has dozens of short walks that maze through the grounds, and you could spend several hours strolling the gardens, the art sculptures, the wildlife exhibits, and more.

What is the best time to visit Brookgreen Gardens?

The best time to visit Brookgreen Gardens is spring, many say. Around April, the gardens’ fantastic dogwoods and azaleas bloom, and spring ephemerals can be caught with any luck. Temperatures are warm but not hot, the sun is usually shining, and Myrtle Beach’s summer crowds are yet to arrive.

How long do people spend at Brookgreen Gardens?

Many visitors spend roughly 2 hours at Brookgreen Gardens, though it’s best to allot 3–4 hours for your visit just in case. Between the gardens, the wildlife exhibits, and the sculptures, there’s a lot to see and take in. Moreover, some visitors spend multiple days; tickets are good for one week.

Can you bring food into Brookgreen Gardens?

Yes, you can bring food to Brookgreen Gardens. There are two designated picnic areas on the grounds, and wandering the exhibits with a snack is allowed, too. There are also three dining options onsite: The Courtyard Cafe (grab-and-go fare, plus beer and wine), The Old Kitchen (light fare), and the Harvest Restaurant (full-service).

Can I bring my dog to Brookgreen Gardens?

No, you’re not allowed to bring your dog to Brookgreen Gardens. That’s for the safety of your pup and the other creatures, as Brookgreen does contain a sizeable zoo—with animals not used to dogs. Pets are also not allowed to be left in your car.

Are picnics allowed at Brookgreen Gardens?

Yes, picnics are allowed at Brookgreen Gardens. There are two designated picnic areas: one near the Russell Holliday Cottage and one near the zoo—both are scenic and a great spot for a bite. There are also three onsite dining options if you’d like your picnic supplemented with beer, wine, dessert, or snacks.

Ways to explore

A general admission ticket gets you into the botanical garden, American sculpture garden, and Lowcountry Zoo. Interpreter tours with animal feedings are included with admission. Upgrade your ticket to include a guided tour, with options focused on the park’s history, wildlife, or an overview of its top hits. These guided tours can only be purchased on the day of your visit. The gardens are also included on some sightseeing tours from Myrtle Beach that show you more of the Hammock Coast.

Accessibility

The garden is wheelchair accessible, but wheelchairs are not available to rent.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sun protection, insect repellent, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking over uneven surfaces.

Not allowed

Pets, picking flowers, feeding wildlife

Amenities

Restrooms, dining options, free Wi-Fi

Address 

The gardens are located off US Highway 17 Bypass between Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island, roughly 30 minutes from Myrtle Beach. The easiest way to get there is by car.

Driving

From Myrtle Beach, take US 17 south for about 25 minutes, then turn right on Brookgreen Drive. Follow the road for about five minutes until you reach the parking area.

Public transportation

There is no public transportation to Brookgreen Gardens. If you don’t have your own car, use a rideshare app or visit as part of a guided tour that includes transit.

Best times to visit

For the most peaceful visit, arrive close to when the gardens open, typically at 9:30am.

Best days to visit

If you want to avoid crowds, don’t visit on a holiday or weekend. Aim for midweek instead.

Best months to visit

While there’s something in bloom year-round, many consider April to be the best month, as the gardens’ dogwoods, azaleas, and spring ephemerals are in bloom.

Special events

Brookgreen Gardens hosts regular events for children and adults throughout the year, from history talks to gardening workshops. Check the website to see what’s on the schedule for your visit.