Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Magnolia boasts Americas largest and oldest Romantic Garden. Simply, a romantic garden is slightly overgrown, has wandering paths and is designed to make you forget everyday life. Magnolia does just that, inviting the visitor to go back in time and wander its shady lanes. To say the landscaping is mature is an understatement as the gardens were founded in 1676.

If you are local, I recommend getting an annual pass. Visit often. From season to season and in the spring, week to week the gardens offer a different experience. The azaleas are stunning in the spring, the camellias bring color to the winter months. Speaking of azaleas, the gardens have an unrivaled collection of azalea varieties. I know, I personally planted sixty or more myself as a garden volunteer.

Don’t forget your camera, the many bridges combine with water and foliage to create fantastic photo opportunities. A petting zoo is fun for adults and children alike, but the dogs will have to wait outside. Admission is $15 for adults, the home tour, swamp tour, boat tour are all extra. A family membership is well worth the hundred dollars.