Discover Brookgreen Gardens: Your Hammock Coast Art and Nature Escape

A Living Masterpiece of Art and Nature

Recognized as one of the premier attractions on the Hammock Coast, Brookgreen Gardens is home to the country’s largest and most comprehensive collection of American figurative sculpture. Over 2,000 works of art are thoughtfully placed throughout lush gardens, wooded trails, and expansive lawns. It’s more than a museum—it’s an open-air gallery where every step leads to a new discovery.

One of the most iconic features of the gardens is the Live Oak Allée, a breathtaking path lined with centuries-old live oak trees, originally planted in the early 1700s. As sunlight filters through the draping Spanish moss, the entire space feels timeless—a true embodiment of Southern elegance.

Family-Friendly Fun at the Lowcountry Zoo

After exploring the sculpture gardens, families will want to head to Brookgreen's Lowcountry Zoo where native wildlife takes center stage. The zoo focuses on animals that were once common in the region’s forests, swamps, and rivers, including alligators, red foxes, river otters, herons, and more. It’s a great opportunity for kids and adults alike to learn about local ecosystems and see these creatures in naturalistic habitats.

The zoo isn’t just fun—it’s educational, too. With interpretive talks and feeding demonstrations offered seasonally, visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the Lowcountry’s unique biodiversity.

Plan Your Perfect Day

To get the most out of your visit to Brookgreen Gardens, we recommend starting your morning with a self-guided or docent-led tour of the sculpture garden and botanical trails. The grounds are peaceful in the early hours, and you’ll have time to take in all the textures, colors, and stories behind the art.

When lunchtime rolls around, head to Austin’s Harvest Restaurant, located right on the Brookgreen property. The menu features fresh, seasonal dishes that reflect the flavors of the South—perfect for a mid-day recharge. Whether you opt for a garden-fresh salad or a hearty shrimp and grits, you’ll dine in comfort with views that keep the natural beauty front and center.

In the afternoon, choose your own adventure. Families with little ones may enjoy more time at the zoo, while others may opt for a Creek Excursion—a relaxing pontoon boat ride through historic rice fields and tidal creeks. These guided tours dive into the area’s rich cultural history and showcase the natural landscapes that have shaped the Hammock Coast for centuries.

Stay Close to the Magic with Tidelife

With so much to do at Brookgreen Gardens, it’s a huge bonus that your Tidelife vacation rental is just a short drive away. Whether you're staying in Pawleys Island, Litchfield Beach, or Georgetown, you’ll enjoy the convenience of easy access to one of the Lowcountry’s most beloved attractions.

Our homes provide the perfect place to return to after a day of exploration—think cozy porches, cool coastal breezes, and space to unwind with family or friends. Planning a romantic getaway? The serene atmosphere of the gardens paired with a quiet evening by the beach is pure perfection.

A Year-Round Destination

While late summer offers blooming flowers and warm weather, Brookgreen Gardens is open year-round, with seasonal events, rotating exhibitions, and festive experiences like Nights of a Thousand Candles in winter. That means no matter when you book your Tidelife vacation, Brookgreen can be part of your itinerary.

From its world-class sculpture collection to its native wildlife encounters, Brookgreen Gardens offers something for every traveler—art lovers, history buffs, nature seekers, and curious kids alike. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, take it all in, and leave feeling inspired.

So on your next visit to South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, be sure to carve out a day to experience the wonder of Brookgreen Gardens. Your coastal adventure won’t be complete without it.