There’s nothing better than waking up on a warm day to the calm, refreshing scent of blooming flowers. Bursting with all the colors of the rainbow, the many gardens in Georgia offer guests the opportunity to experience this kind of peace and relaxation almost year-round. The mild climate and abundant native species provide the perfect setting for strolling through the flowers and bonding with nature. Be sure to visit some of these stunning areas on your next trip to the North Georgia Mountains!
Visit the Breathtaking Gardens in Georgia
Hamilton Gardens
Located at Lake Chatuge, Hamilton Gardens is the only public botanical garden in the area. This paradise bursts with dogwood, native azaleas, wildflowers, trillium, and rhododendron – over 3,000 plants. Peak viewing season usually occurs early April through late May, when guests can experience fragrant flowers, stunning views of Lake Chatuge, and the majestic rise of Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak.
Gibbs Gardens
Beginning in March and continuing to mid-April, Gibbs Gardens explodes with over 20 million daffodils in 100 different varieties. Though these beauties steal the show, there are tons of gorgeous plants to see throughout the year, including azaleas, rhododendron, and roses in the spring, daylilies, and crape myrtle in the summer, and Japanese maples and wildflowers in the fall. After you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to check out the Arbor Café for a delicious lunch or snack surrounded by the harmony of nature. You can even check their website for a “bloom update” before you plan to visit!
Smith-Gilbert Gardens
With over 3,000 species of plants, the historic Hiram Butler Home, and 31 sculptures, the Smith-Gilbert Gardens have something for everyone. Sixteen serene acres offer different fascination areas, including a Bonsai exhibit, Palladino Camellia garden, tea house, waterfall area, rose garden, and conifer display. Guests can take a tour of the grounds, visit the gift shop and plant sale, or stroll through the gardens for a truly relaxing day out in the fresh air.
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia
Located an hour and a half from the mountains in Athens, GA, The State Botanical Garden of Georgia is home to a stunning range of collections, displays, and trails, as well as over 300,000 plant life species. This facility is dedicated to teaching children, students, and the general public about the importance of a healthy environment. It offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.
Explore the Gardens at Glen-Ella Springs
Feel free to spend the day exploring the many gorgeous gardens of Georgia, then head back to Glen-Ella Springs Inn, where you can have a magical experience just steps from your room! Our guests enjoy the gardens so much that many have even tied the knot here! Our gardener, Marilla Martin, has been the essence of dedication for the last 14 years. She gently cares for each plant, from the glorious flowers to the unassuming shrubs, so that our guests can enjoy a beautiful display of endless color from April through November. Glen-Ella’s gardens are truly magnificent thanks to Marilla, and they are just waiting to be discovered by you! Check our availability today to start planning your magical getaway.
