Alabama · Est. 1932
Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Experience the timeless beauty and Southern charm of Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a horticultural masterpiece on the Fowl River.
Founded
1932
Size
65 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 8b
Best Season
Spring
About Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Bellingrath Gardens and Home is a 65-acre public garden and historic estate located near Mobile, Alabama. Founded by Walter and Bessie Bellingrath, it showcases a stunning array of plants and flowers throughout the year, including a renowned collection of azaleas and chrysanthemums. The estate also features the historic Bellingrath Home, a 1935 mansion filled with original furnishings and decorative arts, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
History & Heritage
The property was initially purchased in 1917 by Walter Bellingrath, one of the first Coca-Cola bottlers in the Southeast, as a fishing camp. His wife, Bessie Mae Morse Bellingrath, began developing the gardens with architect George Bigelow Rogers in 1927. The gardens first opened to the public on April 7, 1932, and the 15-room Bellingrath Home, constructed in 1935, became a museum in 1956 after Walter Bellingrath's death in 1955. The Bellingrath-Morse Foundation, established in 1950, continues to oversee the gardens and support educational institutions.
Signature Feature
The Magic Christmas in Lights
During the holiday season, Bellingrath Gardens transforms into a dazzling spectacle with 'Magic Christmas in Lights,' featuring over 3 million lights and 1,000 set pieces across 13 themed scenes. This award-winning display, which began in 1995, has been recognized nationally as one of the best public light displays in America.
Bloom-planning note
Best Time to See Blooms at Bellingrath Gardens and Home
The strongest overall display is typically Spring (for azaleas), Fall (for chrysanthemums), and Winter (for Magic Christmas in Lights).. That window combines the garden's major collections with the regional sequence of flowering trees, bulbs, perennials, and seasonal color.
In the broader Deep South season, warm conditions bring an early spring and a long growing season, with camellias and magnolias followed by azaleas, roses, and tropical color.
Timing changes with weather, elevation, and individual collection conditions. Confirm bloom progress directly with the garden before planning a special visit.
Photo Gallery
A vibrant display of azaleas in full bloom.
The serene Mirror Lake reflecting the surrounding flora.
The historic Bellingrath Home, a testament to timeless elegance.
Notable Collections
Azalea Collection
Home to over 300 varieties of azaleas, with more than 250,000 plants blooming in spring, creating a breathtaking display of color.
Chrysanthemum Collection
Features over 8,000 bedded, potted, and cascading chrysanthemums, providing a spectacular floral show in the fall.
Boehm Porcelain Collection
Housed in the Delchamps Gallery, this is the largest public display of Edward Marshall Boehm porcelain in the United States, showcasing exquisite bird and animal sculptures.
Rose Garden
Boasts over 2,000 roses, offering continuous blooms and fragrant beauty throughout the summer months.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
Open daily, year-round, 8 AM to 5 PM. Last daytime general admission ticket sold at 3:00 PM, last Home tour ticket sold at 2:30 PM.
Best seasonal window: Spring (for azaleas), Fall (for chrysanthemums), and Winter (for Magic Christmas in Lights).
Parking & Arrival
Ample free parking available on-site.
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
Gardens are largely accessible, with paved pathways. Wheelchairs are available for rent. The Bellingrath Home is accessible via a ramp.
Contact the garden before visiting to discuss route conditions, mobility equipment, or support needs.
Visitor details are reviewed from the garden's public information and were last checked May 2026. Policies, prices, and route conditions can change; confirm final arrangements directly with the garden.
Recognition & Awards
- USA Today's 10 Best Public Light Displays in America (2014)
- Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage (1977)
- National Register of Historic Places (1982)
Editorial Standards
This profile was prepared by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial research desk using official garden pages and other named sources where available. Hours, admission, and access details can change; confirm them with the garden before a special trip. This profile was last reviewed May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
Spring (for azaleas), Fall (for chrysanthemums), and Winter (for Magic Christmas in Lights).
Address
12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore, AL 36582
Phone
251-427-3367
Hours
Open daily, year-round, 8 AM to 5 PM. Last daytime general admission ticket sold at 3:00 PM, last Home tour ticket sold at 2:30 PM.
Admission
Check website for current pricing, as rates vary by season and special events.
Parking
Ample free parking available on-site.
Accessibility
Gardens are largely accessible, with paved pathways. Wheelchairs are available for rent. The Bellingrath Home is accessible via a ramp.
Insider Tips
- 1Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the expansive 65-acre gardens.
- 2Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully experience both the gardens and the historic home.
- 3Visit during a special event like Magic Christmas in Lights for a unique experience.
- 4Check the 'What's in Bloom' section on the website to see seasonal highlights before your visit.
Nearby Attractions
- USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park (approx. 20 miles)
- Dauphin Island Sea Lab Estuarium (approx. 25 miles)
- Historic Blakeley State Park (approx. 30 miles)