What a beautiful and amazing place to visit. Being a tropical plant person this was worth the trip. I believe it's about a 3 mile walk through the gardens but it's easy. All the paths are beautiful. Didn't tour the house but next time. This is a must visit if you're into gardens and plants. Have to see the lights as well another time in the evening. read more

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We were in the Mobile area and decided to visit this expansive estate. Azaleas and camellia were the primary bloomers in mid-March, but there were other things to see in the gardens. Bellingrath is not among the gardens giving reciprocal admissions. After we paid, we were given a map and a brief explanation. Many of the garden paths are shady, while others are wide open. There are areas where there are lots of mosquitoes. Sunscreen and bug repellant are recommended for your visit. We enjoyed the water features, bridges, and the beautiful reflections. The so-called Asian-American garden near the end of the tour had some interesting hardscape but wasn't well maintained. The greenhouses were definitely worth a visit. There were lots of plants for sale during our visit. We didn't visit the Bellingrath Home Museum, which had an extra charge. All in all, we got some exercise and saw beautiful scenery during our visit. I'm guessing the gardens will be much nicer beginning in May. Hopefully the roses will be blooming by then. read more

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It's inexpensive but not very expansive. For anyone traveling from out of state it's nice but nothing incredibly memorable. There are some attractive water features and trees but a lot of the other plants will be garden flowers. It takes about an hour or so to walk through. If possible, avoid during the evening because even during the winter there will be mosquitoes unless it's actually cold. A nice walk and not that expensive so it's worth a trip if you're in the area. read more

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Very lovely. Spring plant sake this morning with lots to select from at very good prices. Azaleas are in full bloom. Special in the cafe today was fried catfish. read more

Bellingrath Gardens and Home - Museums Near Me - Theodore, Alabama

This place was absolutely beautiful and I would definitely visit it again - if I'm in the area or traveling through. There is a mix of actual plant life and artificial along with the Bellingrath Home and Bayou. I visited during the day when it was nice and sunny, if you don't want to burn up I suggest going at night - they do a light show at night and I heard that it was absolutely gorgeous. There is plenty of parking, a cafe for bite to eat and a very nice gift shop with a nice variety of items to choose from. My only minor complaint was that the poor older lady was running her head off trying to take care of everyone in the cafe and the young girl was kinda disinterested, telling the older lady to get her things. I hope this pretty older (not meaning to insult, she was GREAT) lady gets a raise (visited 4/8/25 around noon time). read more

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What a beautiful place! I wish I had more time to explore the many acres of land. But we arrived late, due to traffic, so we just wandered what we could in the gardens. Then it started pouring. And although we got drenched in the hurricane like rains and winds, we had a blast! We loved the green lawn, the greenhouse, rose garden, walkways, bridges, and big old trees. Such a picturesque spot! Despite it being in June, the temps weren't too high and with the sprinkle of rain here and there (til the end), we were quite comfortable walking around the gardens. read more

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The grounds are beautiful!! I went Friday, May 9th . The Weather held off til the very end which We were Thankful for. I'm pretty sure in the Summer it's very hot in the sun. The employees were friendly. Some of the activities were not open but We were fine with that. They also have the option for an additional charge to go on a guided tour of the house. We declined that only because We don't like crowds. There are a few interactive exhibits for the kids sprinkled throughout. They also have the grounds decorated for the evening with different lights. Unfortunately it's too far away from my home to see it . I bet it's lovely though. Just the Garden option is pretty reasonable. I will show you the receipt for 3 Adults. I think it was worth it to see it. They do have a gift shop and a little cafeteria. There was plenty of parking. **There are a few things that noone has discussed so let me touch on them. I keep it honest- They need more bathrooms. A porta potty is not cutting it. There is plenty of room to build an additional one . The only bathroom is by the gift shop in the front.** This means you have to go all the way back to the front unless you want to use the one Porta potty they have. I don't use Porta potties and I'm assuming you aren't so keen on them either. It wasn't ideal but I made it work. Second This place is not Handicapped accessible period. I understand this property wasn't built with that in mind but I just wanted people to know this. For most of us it's a bit of a drive so I try to tell you things to help you make the best decision that you can make for your circumstances. For all of this it is a very stunning place for those who love Beauty and Nature:) I took so many Beautiful pics that I can't post them all read more

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It is amazing place BEAUTIFUL so many flowers and plant it like a fair tail but the are a lot of wasp and bats but is amazing please go check it out read more

Wonderful Christmas displays! We have been coming here for years and absolutely love it! read more

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Really enjoyed this garden however the price on website is not up to date. $19 per person today without the light show. But the experience was good coupled with good weather. I would come back for the light show next year. read more

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The gardens and the Christmas lights are very good, as most other reviews discuss. But you will absolutely pay for the experience. "Save Money by Purchasing Your Tickets Online," is the message on a banner over the entrance. But I did just that, paying about $30 per ticket for just the Christmas lights. And the price people were paying at the entrance? $28. No discounts for anybody for the Christmas lights. And for anything you buy within the park (coffee, hot chocolate, water, etc.) you're going to pay high prices. For a family of four plus my daughter's boyfriend, we spent a total of about $220.00 for a 2 1/2 hour experience. read more

The only reason for 4 stars is there are parts of the walking path closed that is need of repair. This is a beautiful garden and everyone needs to see the house once. The home tour is a great place to learn some local history if you are from the area. read more

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Amazing place, haven't been there since middle 70s for my birthday, dad and mom An my grandmother went with me . The flowers and plants were beautiful. Loved the boardwalk over the water . read more

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Wonderful experience. Beautiful gardens and home with historical charm and beauty. The gardens are expansive and will take several hours to view. The home tour was great and the host David was very knowledgeable and friendly. We enjoyed the visit so much that we decided to get the annual membership. We highly recommend you visit read more

Always beautiful very well kept. The flowers are beautiful especially the azaleas this time of year.

I came on Presidents Day 2024 for a tour of the house and gardens. The price for both was very reasonable. The only bad part was the portion to include a gratuity. This was at the desk when you first walk in, and it's not like I was getting a guided tour for the gardens, only the house, and it is easy to slip the tour guide of the house a few dollars for a tip. That aside, this was a lovely time. I am glad I came when the temperatures were cool. There is a lot of grounds to cover. If this were the summer time, I would not have done it with the high temperatures of the gulf coast. The seasonal flowers were blooming and beautiful. There were a few gardeners around refreshing the grounds. Everyone was friendly. The house was beautiful. The chapel was quaint, and the pottery was exquisite. I would recommend this for anyone in the area. It is beautifully maintained. read more

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Such a great Alabama treasure! If you've never visited, it's well worth the time. The holiday light show is really top notch and on a cold winter evening, it really helps bring out the holiday spirit. The walk is easy, maybe a mile at the most, but a great time with lots of beautiful scenes and lights. They have hot chocolate as well as other drinks and snacks if you'd like to partake. Sad to say, but I've only visited at Christmas time, but I'm sure it's also fantastic in the spring. If you're anywhere near during the holidays, Bellingrath Gardens should be on your list! read more

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Is a very nice place to visit any time of the year. Beautiful when the flowers are blooming and beautiful christmas lights during the holidays. A very nice gift shop with lots of unique gifts too! read more

One sorry ass organization. I drove from Fairhope, Al. To visit this place. Their brochure was in my hot little hand. When I got there, it was closed, which was contrary to what their hours of operation stated. I asked them why that was and they could just say "we are sorry we have a special thing going tonight". No accommodations for putting me out. Wasted gas money. No exceptions to allow me to walk around the grounds, even though they would be opening again several hours later. just straight up punks. read more

Wonderful place to visit...seemed every corner was "Jaw droppingly" gorgeous! Highly recommend visiting! read more

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This place is pretty spectacular! We had a weekend of adventure lined up and this was one of the places at the top of our list. We arrived a little after 1:00 pm late July 2021. Why is this significant, well, I'd probably recommend showing up when they open if you can - especially if it's in the heat of summer. The humidity was off the charts while we were here and the green house was another level of insane when we went inside. Now that the humidity conversation is out of the way, this place is pretty awesome. The grounds are immaculate! Love how they have paths that wind through the property and the different gardens that they have. If you are a fan of flowers, lush green lawns, bamboo (really cool how much they had) and those types of things, this is a great place to carve out some time to explore. On the top of the hour they give tours of the home. The guided tour takes about 30 minutes (I'm guessing kind of, I really didn't look at the time when we were done). The tour gives great perspective of the time and what it was like to live in Alabama during those days. Also, great job on the history of the family. I would have actually preferred being able to go through the home at my own pace - not guided, but I totally understand the reason they don't want people to go through without a tour guide - if you go you'll understand. Price of admission was $22 and included the gardens and home. There is a less expensive option that is just for the garden. If you're limited on time, that would probably be the way to go. I think that option was $15. Staff were really friendly and the grounds were kept spotless. A small cafe and gift store are available at the exit. They have some really nice pieces you can get as a souvenir of your visit. Prices aren't bad - especially for some of the plants. We would recommend checking this place out if you get a chance. read more

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Amazing garden! We were there in mid March, so not too much blooming yet but the grounds and plantings were beautiful. Tulips and other spring flowers were in bloom. The house tour was well organized and informative; the home was absolutely beautiful. The price for package- home tour and garden visit was pricey for us as seniors, though, and our only complaint. read more

Anne was our tour guide through the house and she was fantastic! Because there were only 2 of us and her last tour of the day, we took advantage and asked all kinds of information! The gardens were beautiful and we could imagine how much more amazing they'd be in season! read more

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Bellingrath Gardens is one of the most recognizable places to spend a few hours if you're visiting the city of Mobile, Alabama. Although technically it's about 23 miles away from Mobile...still if you're interested in getting away from reality for a little while...then I think this place is great. For my first time ever coming to the Mobile area...what I actually did was head to the coast of Alabama and explored around Dauphin Island and historic Fort Gaines. Then I drove north for 17 miles to here at Bellingrath Gardens, and then back to Mobile to the famous USS Alabama Memorial and Park. So...if anyone's looking for a fulfilling way to enjoy a Saturday or Sunday in the fall or springtime, I'd recommend this little day itinerary... 1. Dauphin Island and Fort Gaines 2. Bellingrath Gardens 3. Mobile - USS Alabama This way you sort of get the best of everything. The Gulf Coast and beach shores, beautiful flowers, gardens, nature and then finally enjoying some history about the United States and the famous battleship. Back to why Bellingrath Gardens was so worthwhile. Well...while I was here...they were hosting a wedding ceremony. So, as you can imagine...the setting was wonderful. The surroundings offered plenty of moments to enjoy colorful flowers and walking trails...all set among ya know...that old fashioned, picturesque, southern charm feel. I am originally form New York. So just being at Bellingrath Gardens...and appreciating what makes Alabama so special (because I haven't really seen much of Alabama) I enjoyed my time walking around and breathing in the fresh air. Plus...who doesn't love terrific photo opportunities of flowers, gardens and strolling the walking paths? I stopped on by in early October on a Saturday and it was very sunny and warm outside...the perfect day for touring among the gardens. I couldn't have asked for a better day to be here! It's $22 admission for both the Gardens and Bellingrath Museum Home Package. But for me...I simply chose walking along the grounds at my own leisure, which was called the Gardens-Only Package for $14! During this virus pandemic, they just asked me to wear a mask whenever possible, which was understandable. When it came time to take a picture, I took my mask off and put it back on in respect for others. I was very excited to be here, ready for ample picture opportunities with my selfie stick and tripod, lol. Upon walking around, there were so many different directions to go towards. There were signs leading me around and I just went with the flow. For this Saturday, it wasn't even crowded or busy. This place was like a therapeutic getaway. I truly had no worries in the world and just got lost among the tranquil setting. Starting out right away there's a Greenhouse and Garden to explore. From there, some other interesting areas included.... - Rose Garden - simply a chance to browse around an abundance of roses and flowers. - Boehm Gallery - Bellingrath Home - in the $22 package, but you can still appreciate the surroundings without going inside. - River Front - walking along the banks of the waters was very scenic. - Mirror Lake - here, yeah, mirror says it all...on this clear day I was here, the trees reflected perfectly onto the lake's waters offering a magical mirror image...ideal for good pictures! - Pedestrian Bridge - this walking bridge allowed for a photo showing how pleasant the overall scene was. - Boardwalk - not photogenic here but good for spotting wandering animals and birds. Finally, as you leave towards the exit there's a cafe and gift shop. They were both open (during this pandemic) if you wanted to grab a bite to eat and or souvenir. Overall, Bellingrath Gardens was a fantastic way for me to spend a few hours of my weekend getting away from the "hustle and bustle". Hanging out in the southern part of the state of Alabama for the very first time was memorable for me...sort of getting out of my comfort zone where I'm so used to hiking and exploring mountains in the national parks. This was an entirely different element to being outdoors. Now I better understand how being a nature enthusiast can include visiting all different parts of the country. Ultimately having time to walk around without distractions just witnessing flowers, gardens, grass, trees and lakes set among calm and charming surroundings makes Bellingrath Gardens as good as it gets. It is justifiable as to why it is so recommended when visiting the area outside of Mobile. read more

I really have a mixed review for this place. Although the Christmas lights were all gorgeous and did not disappoint, we waited in traffic into the entrance for 2 hours! This is not an exaggeration. There was no one controlling traffic and we ended up parking on the road and walking the last mile which was significantly quicker than waiting in the car to reach the entrance. Prepare for long waits if you go for Christmas lights and bring snacks for yourself. read more

Have always wanted to go and did not disappoint! Beautiful even in 110 degree heat! Great tour guid of home! read more

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Awesome light display. We made the trip over from Pensacola and it was well worth it. I can't imagine the amount of work that went into putting this whole thing together. Be sure to do the garden/mansion combo. That said, this is not an inexpensive trip so be prepared for a bit of sticker shock upon arrival. I recommend you make a day of it and spend the day on Dauphin Island and then hit Bellingrath Gardens as the sun goes down. Much fun to be had for the whole family. read more

Such a beautiful spot. Definitely a highlight of Alabama. We went for the blooms and brews festival. The music was amazing and views marvelous. Highly recommend. read more

Bellingrath Gardens is beautiful! I love stuff like this and the gardens and house did not disappoint. Admission fee is $22 per person and parking is free and plentiful. I definitely recommend the combined gardens/house ticket (it was cheaper for just the gardens) as the house is beautiful and the tour is only 30 minutes. I visited in the spring when the azaleas were in bloom. I would love to visit during the fall and winter months as well, I hear the Christmas lights display is amazing! read more

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What an amazing and beautiful estate. I can't even fathom the gargantuan task of taming these acres of swamp and forest into the serene and beautiful Gardens we strolled through. An English rose garden, an incredible waterfall feature on the path to the boathouse, a Japanese garden, a hidden rock pond, a wandering boardwalk over and through the wild edge river, massive oak trees wearing shawls of Spanish moss, and seemingly miles of hydrangeas and hibiscus and other plants of every color and hue. The greenhouse would be worth the entrance fee alone ... the tropical plants - succulents and palms and pineapples and bromeliads - were thriving and absolutely stunning. We also loved touring the grand historic home and learning about Mr. and Mrs. Bell (and it definitely gave us a welcome break from the heat and humidity outside). Luckily most of the gardens are shaded so that helped make the South Alabama summer heat more bearable. The gift shop made me feel like a kid in a candy store: there were souvenirs like magnets and coffee cups, but also home decor, live plants, jewelry, books, candles, and so much more! If you have some gifts to buy this would not be a bad place to pick them up! I would highly recommend a stop at beautiful Bellingrath Gardens to anyone in the Mobile/ Dauphin Island area, including up to an hour drive out of your way... just find a lunch stop nearby and make it an afternoon! PS - I have been advised to come back for an amazing Christmas light festival during the holidays! read more

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The Christmas lights are always amazing. We go every year. Perfect outing for the family. read more

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Heaven. I must have died and gone to heaven. That's what I kept thinking when I went to visit Bellingrath. Out loud I kept saying, "I'm so happy I'm here. I'm so happy to be here. Oh look at how pretty that is. And that. And that!" I know, I'm bit overly enthusiastic. But you guys. This place totally deserves all the overly enthusiastic reviews it can get. It is jaw dropping beautiful. I mean just sinfully gorgeous. 65 acres of gorgeousness. When I came the roses were in bloom which just so happens to be the first area you walk into after paying for the admission price...which, by the way, was super reasonable. ($12.50 for the self guided garden tour.) As I was walking around the rose garden, I knew all that I had envisioned this place to be would even exceed my lofty aspirations. And it did. It just kept getting better and better. I cannot tell you how perfect this place is. The flowers, the trees and the little paths. The koi pond, the waterways, fountains and little waterfalls. Perfection. If this tells you nothing else, know this. I live three hours away from Bellingrath and fell in love with it so hard that I became a member just now just so that I can go as often as I like this summer with my kids. Plan to spend at least two hours there. Don't forget water, sunscreen, a camera and good walking shoes. Also, prepare to fall head over heels in love. read more

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I will never, ever get tired of coming here. Bellingrath Gardens and Home was once a private residence that has been welcoming visitors since the 1930's (I learned that on the tour of the home). Some of the sights here are just stunningly beautiful. The gardens still feel to me almost like a well kept secret because they are more than a little off the beaten path. Once you get to the town of Theodore, Alabama and turn onto Bellingrath Road you've still got eight more miles to go. During that drive you will think more than once, "Where am I??" The foliage you'll see depends on the time of year that you visit. I've never been able to make it for the annual Christmas light festival, which I deeply regret. If you take your time and appreciate what you're looking at you could spend hours here. The greenhouse is filled to brim with exotic plants. One of my favorite parts is the area around the private home. There are little streams that have been constructed from stone and they snake through the area past statues and flowers until the water eventually goes downstream into the river. Obviously it wasn't there back when the Bellingraths were alive, but I enjoy walking on the (surprisingly long) boardwalk that circles into the woods and over the body of water near the gardens. The tour of the Bellingrath's private home was really interesting. You couldn't help but wonder what a dinner party would be like here back in the day. We purchased a tour of the house separate from the garden admission ticket. I enjoyed the tour but wouldn't have a reason to do it again. I thought that it was brilliant that they signs throughout the gardens with a number you could call on your cell for more information about what you were looking for. It felt like our private tour of the home continued even after our tour guide left us. My only complaint was that this time the area around Mirror Lake seemed pretty barren. I've seen it many times where it was amazingly decorated, but we could have just hit at a bad time when things weren't blooming yet. read more

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Place was great for my wife for her birthday week. This is her kind of thing and she loved it. House tour was informative and very good. I personally like the history of the place and how Mr Bellingrath lost his man cave to his wife to spend much money on this place. The gardens were unbelievable. His wife placed much thought into the entire place and it also is a great walk. My learning experience was to save your money early and you can purchase a franchise like he did. Paid $1,500.00 and made a ton of money. This kind of stuff should be taught in schools. He was a great man and his wife had great taste. Great way to spend the morning. You will have to watch the weather. We made it back just before the weather hit the place but all was good. Wife spent time in the gift shop and enjoyed herself. read more

Bellingrath Gardens and Home - Mirror lake - Museums Near Me - Theodore, Alabama

The foliage is glorious, walkways well maintained, house tour well organized and no flying teeth or mosquitos. If you walk for your health, I recommend an annual membership. read more

This was a beautiful experience. The grounds are immaculately kept and the flowers are stunning. We spent the day there and also toured the house. The only way to see the house is by tour which is fine but if you like to wonder around on your own you can't in the house. Everything inside is original and interesting to see. Would definitely go back. The staff was friendly and everything was clean so plus plus in my book. read more

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If you are looking for a beautiful return to the splendor of yesteryear, Bellingrath Home and Gardens is designed for you. With its well-manicured gardens; French, Southern, and British inspired architecture; estuaries; and lakes; your imagination quickly takes flight. Take a tour of the 10,000 square foot mansion constructed from historic pieces from Mobile and the South, as well as Philadelphia made iron lace; for an insight into the generous people who lived there. A peaceful escape from modern life. This is our second visit- I definitely recommend it! read more

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We were looking for a way to kill some time one morning of our trip and I am so great full we choose to do that at Bellingrath Gardens!!! This was absolutely my favorite part of our trip! Even though we visited in early November there was still plenty of plants blooming. It was absolutely gorgeous and so peaceful. I hope to come back here some day! A must do stop! read more

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Went for the Magic Christmas in Lights. Stayed for almost 3 hours walking the grounds and taking pictures. The crowds we're moderate, considering this was one of the few dry nights to go see them. The whole grounds we're handicap accessible and my husband was able to take pictures. Had to wait for folks to pass, on occasion, to take some pics and had to go back and retake some but all in all we had a great time and will try to go again next year. read more

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I have waited years to get to visit here. We are in Gulf Shores for a week and the azaleas are so gorgeous right now I knew it would be perfect timing. We took the house tour as well and it is fabulous. I really enjoyed her collections and decorating style. The only negative was that the ferry was down and we had to drive a lot to get there. read more