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Bellingrath Gardens & Home: A Southern Masterpiece

Experience Southern charm at Bellingrath Gardens & Home: 65 acres of floral beauty and historic elegance on Alabama's Gulf Coast.

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Bellingrath Gardens & Home, located in Theodore, Alabama, is a 65-acre estate garden and historic home offering a blend of natural beauty and Southern charm. Originally a fishing camp purchased by Coca-Cola bottler Walter Bellingrath, it was transformed into stunning gardens by his wife Bessie. Today, visitors can explore themed gardens, tour the Bellingrath Home, and enjoy seasonal events.

A brief summary to Bellingrath Gardens & Home

  • Monday 8 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-9 pm
  • Friday 8 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-9 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during November through early April for the best weather and most diverse array of blooming flowers.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to walk through the gardens, with an extra half-hour if you plan to tour the Bellingrath Home.
  • Take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service from the parking lot to the main entrance if needed.
  • Check the Bellingrath Gardens website for seasonal events and special programs before your visit.
  • Pets are not allowed in the gardens, but a free 'pet motel' is available at the parking area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Bellingrath Gardens & Home is located southwest of Mobile, Alabama. From downtown Mobile, take I-10 West to exit 15A (Highway 90/Theodore). Travel west on US-90 for approximately 2.8 miles, then turn left onto Bellingrath Road (County Highway 59). Continue for 6 miles, then turn left onto Bellingrath Gardens Road. Follow the signs to the parking lot. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation options directly to Bellingrath Gardens are limited, you can take Mobile Transit's Route 14 bus towards Theodore. Disembark at the closest stop to the intersection of US-43 and Bellingrath Gardens Road. From there, it's approximately a 1-mile walk to the gardens. A one-way bus fare is approximately $1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    For a direct and convenient option, consider using a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Simply enter 'Bellingrath Gardens & Home' as your destination. Depending on your location in Mobile or surrounding areas, the fare could range from $20 to $40.

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Discover more about Bellingrath Gardens & Home

Bellingrath Gardens & Home is a captivating destination that showcases the beauty of the American South. What began in 1917 as a simple fishing camp for Walter Bellingrath, Mobile's first Coca-Cola bottler, evolved into a world-renowned garden under the vision of his wife, Bessie. Bessie, with the help of architect George Bigelow Rogers, began developing the gardens in 1927. The gardens officially opened to the public in 1932, quickly becoming a beloved attraction. The 65-acre estate features a variety of themed gardens, each with its unique charm. The Rose Garden, a tribute to the Rotary Club of Mobile, displays over 2,000 roses. The Asian-American Garden provides a tranquil space with unique flora and design elements. Other highlights include the Conservatory, Butterfly Garden, and Great Lawn, each contributing to the garden's diverse appeal. The Bellingrath Home, completed in 1935, is a 10,500-square-foot museum showcasing the Bellingrath's original furnishings. The home's architecture blends Georgian, French, and Mediterranean styles, incorporating salvaged materials from historic Mobile buildings. Throughout the year, Bellingrath Gardens hosts seasonal events, including the Magic Christmas in Lights, a dazzling display of over 3 million lights. Visitors can also enjoy lunch at the Magnolia Café and shop for souvenirs at the gift shop. A cell phone audio tour provides interpretation of stops within the gardens. Bellingrath Gardens & Home is dedicated to ensuring accessibility for all visitors, with paved paths, accessible restrooms, and a complimentary shuttle service from the parking lot to the main entrance. Wheelchairs and scooters are available for rent.

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