Bellingrath Gardens and Home
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4.4(85)yelp
Historic BuildingNature
Overview
Bellingrath Gardens and Home is a 65-acre public garden and historic home on the Fowl River near Mobile, Alabama, built by Coca-Cola bottler Walter Bellingrath and his wife Bessie. The gardens opened to the public in 1932 and the home is now a museum on the National Register of Historic Places.
Practical Info
Every day8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Suggested DurationAbout 3-4 hours
Best TimeSpring (March-April) is prime time to see the legendary azaleas completely blanket the estate. Late November through December is also famous for the 'Magic Christmas in Lights' spectacular night display.
Getting ThereLocated in Theodore, a rural area southwest of Mobile. Driving is highly recommended: take Exit 15A from I-10, head south on AL-193, and follow the brown signs to the massive free on-site parking lot.
Travel Tips
- Bellingrath Gardens and Home - Visitor Tips & Recommendations
- Includes 10,000 sq ft mansion built of English red brick amid rose gardens
- Home tour ticket required to see 1930s Meissen porcelain, silver, and mahogany antiques with guide
Reviews
Positive
- Ultimate nature artwork—swans, bridges, azaleas in bloom like paradise painting, historic mansion exudes elegance
- Quintessential Southern estate culture
Heads up
- Summer/fall mosquito swarms are legendary—bring strong repellent or regret it