The Natural Wonder in South Carolina Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

The Myrtle Beach area is full of must-see attractions. There's Broadway at the Beach, The Market Common, and the SkyWheel, not to mention the 60 miles of beautiful, sandy beaches that line the coast. When I travel, I like to visit lesser-known attractions in addition to those that are widely appreciated. One hidden gem attraction is a short drive south of Myrtle Beach, in the small town of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Brookgreen Gardens is a spectacular garden that offers an array of activities for visitors.

Brookgreen Gardens, a nonprofit organization, was founded in the 1930s by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. Archer Huntington was extremely wealthy, inheriting a fortune from his stepfather, who worked in the railroad business. Anna Huntington was a renowned sculptor, and the original vision for Brookgreen Gardens included an area dedicated to sculpture display. They hoped the property would showcase sculptures and the region's native plants and animals. Since its founding, the garden has met and exceeded these aspirations.

Now, visitors can explore the 9,100-acre property and enjoy an all-in-one botanical garden, sculpture garden, zoo, and historic site. The botanical garden showcases 250-year-old oak trees, a butterfly garden, a palmetto garden, and a terrace garden. There is always something blooming in the botanical garden; even in mid-November, snapdragons, pansies, and more delight with their colorful blossoms. Art and sculpture are prominent parts of Brookgreen Gardens; the property holds the largest collection of figurative sculpture in the U.S. Many works are beautifully displayed throughout the outdoor gardens as fountain centerpieces and points of interest in the landscapes.

Visitors can also learn about wildlife at Brookgreen Gardens' Lowcountry Zoo. The zoo is home to several native species, including bald eagles, alligators, and river otters. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and only harbors animals that cannot live in the wild. Guests of Brookgreen Gardens can also explore its historical sites. Seasonal tours of the property explore a historic cemetery, a Civil War fort, and more.

Brookgreen Gardens hosts many events throughout the year. Events focus on meditation, photography, history, and art. Nights of a Thousand Candles is a huge holiday event with music, food, and brilliant lights. 

The garden has won several awards in recent years. It was recognized by USA Today as a Top 10 Sculpture Park in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 and Top 10 in the Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights category in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. 

Visit Brookgreen Gardens' website and Facebook page for more information.

Murrells Inlet is a fantastic place to visit. Aside from Brookgreen Gardens, its other notable attractions include the Atalaya Castle and Huntington Beach State Park. It's about a 25-minute drive south of Myrtle Beach, a much larger city and an excellent spot for a weekend getaway. 

If you want to stay near Murrells Inlet, consider this two-bedroom oceanfront Airbnb with picturesque ocean views.