Georgia · Est. 1952
Callaway Gardens
A 2,500-acre resort complex and garden nestled in the southernmost foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
Founded
1952
Size
2,500 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 8a
Best Season
March to May for azalea blooms, and September for the Blue Morpho butterfly month.
About Callaway Gardens
Callaway Resort & Gardens is a 2,500-acre resort complex located near Pine Mountain in Harris County, Georgia. It features the world's largest azalea garden and draws over 750,000 visitors annually. The destination combines natural beauty with family-friendly fun, outdoor adventures, and year-round events.
History & Heritage
Callaway Gardens was originally conceived in 1930 by Cason Callaway after he discovered a rare plumleaf azalea growing in the area. The gardens officially opened on May 21, 1952, as the Ida Cason Gardens, named for the founder's mother. To create the garden, streams were dammed to create 13 lakes, and more than 20,000 trees, shrubs, and native flowers were planted.
Signature Feature
Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center
The Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center is North America's largest glass-enclosed tropical conservatory. It houses over a thousand butterflies of over fifty different species, along with 250 varieties of nectar-producing plants. The center maintains a tropical ecosystem at approximately 80°F and 74% relative humidity.
Photo Gallery
Vibrant flowers blooming in the gardens
Lush greenery and scenic pathways
Beautiful nature scenery around the lakes
Notable Collections
Callaway Brothers Azalea Bowl
A massive 40-acre garden featuring over 3,000 hybrid and native azaleas.
Overlook Azalea Garden
A scenic garden area that opened in 1953, showcasing vibrant azalea blooms.
Cason's Garden
A tribute garden featuring a variety of plants and vegetables.
Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center
A glass-enclosed tropical conservatory housing thousands of butterflies.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
Attractions and indoor facilities are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Best seasonal window: March to May for azalea blooms, and September for the Blue Morpho butterfly month.
Parking & Arrival
Parking is available on-site for visitors and resort guests.
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
The gardens offer accessible pathways and facilities for all visitors.
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
- AAA Four Diamonds (The Lodge and Spa)
- LEED Certified (Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center)
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
March to May for azalea blooms, and September for the Blue Morpho butterfly month.
Address
17800 US Hwy 27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822
Phone
1-800-225-5292
Hours
Attractions and indoor facilities are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Admission
General Admission includes access to the Discovery Center, Butterfly Center, and Memorial Chapel.
Parking
Parking is available on-site for visitors and resort guests.
Accessibility
The gardens offer accessible pathways and facilities for all visitors.
Insider Tips
- 1Visit in the spring to see the world's largest azalea garden in full bloom.
- 2Rent a bicycle to explore the extensive trails throughout the 2,500-acre property.
- 3Don't miss the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, especially on sunny days when butterflies are most active.
- 4Check the calendar for seasonal events like the Fantasy in Lights during the holidays.
Nearby Attractions
- F. D. Roosevelt State Park (5 miles)
- Wild Animal Safari (12 miles)
- Little White House Historic Site (18 miles)