Charles Pinckney is responsible for helping to fortify the foundation of the United States government. He is also considered a key, yet unsung, contributor to the U.S. Constitution. The interactive historical site takes visitors through a portion of 715-acre Snee Farm, Pinckney's plantation, providing an introspective glance into his life and the climate of the country. The park also features a Gullah heritage celebration, and film series in February and March.
Recognized as America's most photographed plantation, Boone Hall is still an active plantation producing strawberries, pumpkins and tomatoes. It is currently owned and operated by members of the McRae family, who are committed to providing a 1800s plantation atmosphere for visitors. Admission includes the "Exploring Gullah Culture" performance, butterfly pavilion and plantation house tour.
Brookgreen Gardens located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, a short drive south of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a sculpture and botanical garden popular with residents and visitors alike. Stroll the property drinking in the ever changing seasonal blooms and view their art collection comprised of over 1,400 works of art from 350 sculptors ranging from the nineteenth century to the present. A wildlife zoo, nature trails, and low country excursions add to the experience.
Parking and Public Transportation to Brookgreen Gardens
The best way to reach Brookgreen Gardens is traveling by car. It is located just off U.S. 17 in Murrells Inlet, SC, south of Myrtle Beach. Parking on-site is free with paid garden admission.
Best and worst and time to go to Brookgreen Gardens
While they're open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., the best time to visit Brookgreen Gardens is in the morning, before the gardens get too crowded. During the spring and summer seasons, the gardens stay open later for events and special occasions. Check their website prior to visiting for more information.
Admission to Brookgreen Gardens
Children ages three and under are free when accompanied by an adult, while admission prices vary from $7-$15 for children ages four and up, seniors and adults. Admission price includes entrance for seven consecutive days and includes free on-site parking, admission to the gardens, Lowcountry Center and Trail, Native Wildlife Zoo, and Enchanted Storybook Forest. Additional excursions and classes are available for additional fees.
Must see/do at Brookgreen Gardens
Intermixed with the gardens, guests can view numerous sculptures on display, with notable works by American sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington. Brookgreen Gardens also hosts a wildlife zoo featuring alligators, bald eagles, owls, river otters and much more. Throughout the year, they also host a variety of live music events, historical seminars and classes.
Other places to visit near Brookgreen Gardens
Just across U.S. 17 is Huntington Beach State Park, a great place to spend the day exploring Atalaya Castle, home to Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, biking, camping, or combing the beach for seashells.
Insider tip for visitors to Brookgreen Gardens
During the holiday season, Brookgreen Gardens hosts Night of a Thousand Candles. This family friendly event is held in the evening and features the gardens alight with sparking lights and 5,500 hand-lit candles. A must see!
Author's bio: Rebecca S. Robertson has called Myrtle Beach home for the past seven years. She has written for a variety of local and national publications.
