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Bellingrath Gardens & Home: A Southern Treasure

Discover Southern charm at Bellingrath Gardens & Home, a 65-acre paradise of floral beauty and historic elegance in Theodore, Alabama.

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Bellingrath Gardens & Home, located in Theodore, Alabama, is a stunning 65-acre estate featuring magnificent gardens and a historic home museum. Once a simple fishing camp, it was transformed by Walter and Bessie Bellingrath into a world-renowned attraction, showcasing a diverse array of plants and flowers throughout the year.

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 different seasons to experience the unique floral displays, from azaleas in spring to chrysanthemums in the fall.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the 65-acre gardens.
  • Check the 'What's in Bloom' page on the Bellingrath Gardens website to plan your visit around your favorite flowers.
  • Take advantage of the free 'pet motel' if you're traveling with pets, as they are not allowed on the garden grounds.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to stroll through the gardens, with an additional half-hour if you plan to tour the Bellingrath Museum Home.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Bellingrath Gardens & Home is located at 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore, AL 36582. From Mobile, take I-10 West to Exit 15A (Highway 90/Theodore). Travel west on US-90 for approximately 2 miles, then turn left onto Bellingrath Road. Continue for 6 miles and turn left onto Bellingrath Gardens Road; follow the signs to the parking area. Parking is free.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Mobile, a taxi or ride-share service to Bellingrath Gardens & Home takes approximately 37 minutes and typically costs $55-$65. Services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Mobile area and can provide transportation to the gardens. Be sure to confirm the fare and estimated time of arrival before starting your trip.

Unlock the Best of Bellingrath Gardens & Home

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Discover more about Bellingrath Gardens & Home

Bellingrath Gardens & Home is a captivating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The story began in 1917 when Walter Bellingrath, a Coca-Cola bottling magnate, sought a peaceful retreat from his busy life. He purchased land on the Fowl River, initially using it as a fishing camp. His wife, Bessie, envisioned a beautiful garden on the property, and together they transformed the site into what is now known as Bellingrath Gardens & Home. The gardens first opened to the public in 1932 and quickly gained popularity. The gardens showcase a variety of themed areas, including a rose garden, an Asian garden, and a conservatory. Visitors can explore the grounds via a network of paved paths, ensuring accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers. The gardens are known for their seasonal displays, with azaleas in the spring, roses in the summer, chrysanthemums in the fall, and Christmas lights during the holiday season. The Bellingrath Home, completed in 1935, is a 10,500-square-foot mansion that reflects a mix of architectural styles. The home is constructed with bricks salvaged from the 1852 birthplace of Alva Smith Vanderbilt Belmont and features ironwork from the demolished Southern Hotel in Mobile. Inside, visitors can admire the Bellingraths' original antique furnishings, as well as collections of art, silver, china, and crystal. The Delchamps Gallery of Boehm Porcelain, added in 1967, features a collection of Boehm porcelains. Bellingrath Gardens & Home is more than just a beautiful place; it's a testament to the vision and dedication of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath. After Bessie's death, Walter established the Bellingrath-Morse Foundation to ensure the gardens would continue to thrive and benefit the community. Today, the gardens continue to operate as a nonprofit organization, welcoming visitors from around the world.

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