When it comes to exploring nature, Georgia has got you covered. With its countless sprawling gardens, this southern state offers a unique and beautiful experience for anyone who loves the outdoors. From the historic to the modern, the grandiose to the quaint, Georgia’s gardens come in all shapes and sizes. Here are some of the most stunning green spaces to explore in Georgia.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. This 30-acre garden is home to thousands of plant species, including a stunning array of tropical plants in the garden’s rainforest conservatory. The garden also boasts a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a woodland garden. The garden’s skyline garden is especially impressive, with its towering treetop walkway that offers spectacular views of Midtown.
Callaway Gardens
Just an hour south of Atlanta, Callaway Gardens is a massive complex that covers over 2,500 acres. The gardens offer a range of activities, including hiking trails, golf courses, and a butterfly center. The highlight, of course, is the stunning gardens, which boast a wide range of plant species. Particularly impressive is the azalea garden, which blooms with vibrant colors each spring.
Gibbs Gardens
Gibbs Gardens is a massive private garden that covers over 220 acres in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains. The garden features over 20 waterfalls and 220 varieties of daffodils, making it a particularly special spot during the spring. In the fall, the garden offers stunning foliage as the leaves change colors.
Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens
The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens are a hidden gem located in Savannah. The gardens cover over 50 acres and are situated on the banks of the Savannah River. The gardens offer a range of features, including a bamboo farm, a children’s garden, and a rose garden. The garden’s camellias are especially noteworthy, as they bloom in the winter when most other flowers have gone dormant.
Andalusia
Andalusia is a historic site in Milledgeville that was once the home of author Flannery O’Connor. The site’s gardens are an often-overlooked feature, but they are well worth a visit. The gardens feature a variety of flowers, including azaleas and roses. The standout feature, however, is the massive oak tree that dominates the gardens.
Gibbs Gardens
Gibbs Gardens is a massive private garden that covers over 220 acres in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains. The garden features over 20 waterfalls and 220 varieties of daffodils, making it a particularly special spot during the spring. In the fall, the garden offers stunning foliage as the leaves change colors.
Smith-Gilbert Gardens
Smith-Gilbert Gardens is a small botanical garden located in Kennesaw. The garden features a wide range of plant species, including a collection of rare conifers. The gardens also feature a variety of sculptures and a tranquil koi pond. The garden’s sustainable practices, including the use of rain barrels and composting, make it a true delight for nature lovers.
Conclusion
No matter what your interests or preferences, Georgia’s gardens have something to offer. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a bustling outdoor adventure, the gardens of Georgia are sure to inspire and delight. So why not head out and explore these stunning green spaces for yourself?