Bellingrath Gardens & Home: A Southern Sanctuary

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, blossomed into a 65-acre garden estate thanks to his wife, Bessie. Bessie's passion for gardening, combined with architect George Bigelow Rogers' vision, transformed the property into a showcase of diverse flora and elegant design, opening to the public in 1932. The gardens themselves are a spectacle throughout the year, with each season bringing its unique highlights. Spring boasts over 250,000 azaleas in full bloom, while the rose garden, established in 1936, features 2,000 plants across 75 varieties. In the fall, chrysanthemums take center stage, and winter brings the dazzling 'Magic Christmas in Lights' display. Other garden areas include the Oriental-American Garden, a conservatory, and Mirror Lake, offering varied landscapes to explore. The Bellingrath Home, completed in 1935, is a 10,500-square-foot mansion designed in an 'English Renaissance' style. It incorporates salvaged materials, such as bricks from the birthplace of Alva Smith Vanderbilt Belmont and ironwork from Mobile's Southern Hotel, adding to its historical significance. Inside, visitors can admire Bessie Bellingrath's collections of antique furniture, silver, and porcelain. Hourly guided tours provide insights into the Bellingrath family and the home's unique architectural features.