Bellingrath Gardens & Home: A Southern Oasis

Bellingrath Gardens & Home is a captivating destination that blends natural beauty with historical charm. What began in 1917 as a humble fishing camp on the Fowl River, purchased by Coca-Cola bottler Walter Bellingrath as a retreat, evolved into a magnificent garden estate thanks to his wife, Bessie. Bessie Bellingrath, with the help of architect George Bigelow Rogers, began developing the gardens in 1927, drawing inspiration from European gardens. The gardens first opened to the public in 1932, quickly gaining popularity and establishing themselves as a major attraction. Today, visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens, including the Asian Garden, Rose Garden, and Conservatory, each showcasing a diverse collection of plants and flowers. The estate offers blooms and beauty every day of the year. The Bellingrath Home, completed in 1935, is a 10,500-square-foot mansion designed in an "English Renaissance" style by George B. Rogers. The home is constructed with salvaged materials from historic Mobile buildings, including bricks from the birthplace of Alva Smith Vanderbilt Belmont and ironwork from the Southern Hotel. The home opened as a museum in 1956 and features the Bellingrath's original furnishings, offering a glimpse into their life and collections of art, silver, china, and crystal. Bellingrath Gardens & Home hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the popular Magic Christmas in Lights, which features millions of lights and festive displays. Other events include the Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival, floral showcases, and holiday celebrations. Visitors can also enjoy dining at the Magnolia Café and shopping at the gift shop. With its stunning gardens, historic home, and year-round events, Bellingrath Gardens & Home offers a memorable experience for all.