Tucked away 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, Cypress Gardens is a breathtaking 175-acre nature preserveknown for its serene blackwater swamp, lush gardens, and cypress-lined trails. If it looks like a movie set—it’s because it is! This otherworldly landscape has been featured in films like The Notebook, The Patriot, and Cold Mountain. Whether you’re looking to paddle through moss-draped cypress trees, spot wildlife, or take in the seasonal blooms, Cypress Gardens is a must-visit for nature lovers.

🌿 The Swamp: Paddle Through a Real-Life Movie Scene

The star of Cypress Gardens is its gorgeous blackwater swamp, where towering cypress and tupelo trees reflect perfectly on the dark, glassy water.

🚣‍♀️ Self-Guided or Guided Boat Rides – Rent a flat-bottomed boat (included in admission) and paddle yourself through winding water trails, or join a guided tour for a deeper dive into the swamp’s ecosystem.

🎥 Movie Buff? – The rowboat scene in The Notebook was filmed right here, making it a popular spot for romantic photos.

🦆 Wildlife Watching – Spot herons, egrets, turtles, frogs, and even alligators basking on logs. Springtime often brings baby gators and ducklings, making for adorable wildlife sightings.

🌸 The Gardens: Blooming Beauty Year-Round

The gardens surrounding the swamp are just as magical, filled with azaleas, camellias, daffodils, and magnolias that bloom in different seasons.

🌺 Azaleas & Camellias (Spring – March-April) – Bright pinks, purples, and reds fill the landscape, making it a stunning time to visit.

🌿 Lush Greenery & Lily Pads (Summer – May-August) – The swamp is at its most vibrant, with dense greenery and floating lily pads adding to the scenery.

🍂 Golden Leaves & Crisp Air (Fall – September-November) – The perfect time for a leisurely walk on the garden trails.

🏛️ A Place Full of History

Originally a rice plantation, Cypress Gardens was transformed in the 1930s into a public garden and nature preserve. Today, it remains one of the most picturesque spots in the Lowcountry, showcasing the natural beauty of South Carolina’s swamps.

🐊 What Else to Do at Cypress Gardens?

🌿 Explore the Walking Trails – 3 miles of shaded trails wind through the gardens and along the swamp’s edge.

🦋 Visit the Butterfly House & Swamparium – See butterflies, exotic plants, reptiles, fish, and alligators up close.

📸 Take Stunning Photos – Whether it’s reflections on the water, Spanish moss-draped trees, or colorful blooms, every angle is picture-perfect.

🎣 Go Fishing – If you have a South Carolina fishing license, you can fish from designated areas.

📍 Pro Tips for Visiting

🎟️ Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for kids (ages 6-17), and free for children under 6.

🚗 Parking: Free, with plenty of space.

⏳ Time Needed: 2-3 hours minimum to fully enjoy the swamp and trails.

☀️ Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-April) for peak blooms, fall (September-November) for cooler weather, and early mornings in summer to avoid the heat.

🐊 Alligators? Yes, but they keep to themselves—just admire from a distance!

✨ The Real Reason to Visit?

Cypress Gardens is one of the most peaceful and beautiful spots in the Lowcountry, offering a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re gliding through the swamp in a rowboat, strolling under mossy oaks, or spotting wildlife, it’s a magical, must-visit experience just outside Charleston.