Island Stars

Fabulous open air gardens and greenhouse at this location. Rhe Hendrie garden has a teahouse for a light meal (reservations are preferred since its quite busy at times). There's a lovely big fountain off to the right side of the garden by the old gate and a water feature pool in front of the teahouse with lily pads. The garden is sectioned off into several areas for different plants. You can even find a wee Imagination Grove with garden gnomes. It also has a medicinal plant area, several art statues are positioned around the gardens. The greenhouses hold the cactus and succulents in one part and Mediterranean plants in the other part. There is also an outdoor play zone for children to run around in and also learn a bit about some of the plants by playing games to find them. There's a good sized cafe located in the main building for grabbing a meal and a gift shop with plenty of things to look at or buy.

Sunday evening jazz is terrific especially if you are a member. A couple of items though: 1) get there early as it can get busy both in the space and for parking; 2) they have food but not a wide selection and zero options for people with dietary concerns - even easy ones like gluten 3) be aware of the weather. Enjoy your time there.

Can't believe I've never been to this place before, it's stunning. Attended my husband's cousin's wedding here last weekend and it was fabulous. The staff were friendly and accommodating. The manager in charge of the ⛺️ set up or just general manager overseeing everyone was absolutely amazing. I forgot his name but he was so charming and we all had a great conversation. The wedding ceremony went off without a hitch and the photos that followed around the grounds were stunning. I would definitely throw a wedding here or a party 🥳 🎉 And I'm most definitely coming back, this time to as a regular visitor.

Exceptionally beautiful gardens with the unique atmosphere and friendly staff though the same can’t be said about the admission staff of the LAKING GARDEN. They were very rude and unwelcoming. Didn’t even say hi or welcome to us, and when I thanked, she didn’t even reply. So unprofessional and unfriendly!! I would give one star because of their attitude but preferred to withdraw it from the overall rating not to be unfair to the great staff in the other two gardens. Making reservations in advance is recommended though the line up is not usually that long.

There are 3 (maybe 4) gardens. They are about 1.5 km apart from each other. You can use the trail between them. You can also ride between the gardens and park nearby parking area. I liked the rock garden the most. Check which flowers blossom before your visit. Based on your timing it may be more beautiful.

I love botanical gardens! However, it is not always the case that the bigger the better. Most of the garden is more of a large park than an actual garden. Nevertheless, everyone will find something beautiful here. I liked Hendrie Park with its beautiful flower planting and Rock Garden the most. Arboretum and views of Hickory Island are best for a walk. If you want to see it all, you need one whole day for it.

Botanical gardens is worth watching. However you will not be able to visit all sections of the garden in one day for sure as all garden sections are at different locations. Bus ride is available for going from one section to another but I recommend visit one section at each time . I visited in late spring so couldn’t see roses bloom but had wonder sightseeing of Tulips and Lillies . I also saw lilacs in other section little far of from main section. Do carry water bottles and some snacks . Washrooms are available in all sections of the garden.