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Trip Planner:   USA  /  North Carolina  /  North Carolina Coast  /  Wilmington  /  Airlie Gardens

Airlie Gardens, Wilmington

Historic Site · Tourist Spot
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Embark on a self-guided walking tour of the sculpted formal gardens at Airlie Gardens. More than 100,000 azaleas and numerous camellias bloom along the walking trails that weave throughout this garden by the sea. Along the way, you'll get glimpses of Bradley Creek and many freshwater lakes. Look for the ancient, 467-year-old Airlie oak tree. At the butterfly house, watch 11 species of native butterflies as you learn about their life cycle and which plants allow them to thrive. Other features include the Bottle Chapel, Lebanon Chapel, and Mystery Grave, which supposedly belongs to one of Napoleon's marshals. Put Airlie Gardens on your schedule, and learn what else deserves a visit by using our Wilmington route builder tool.
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Airlie Gardens reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
1,122 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • Azalea time! Tulips in bloom. Very beautiful well cared for gardens, Most of the paths are paved and handicapped accessible. The map given when you pay is so general it is almost worthless. There are....  more
    Azalea time! Tulips in bloom. Very beautiful well cared for gardens, Most of the paths are paved and handicapped accessible. The map given when you pay is so general it is almost worthless. There are....  more »
  • Absolutely lovely gardens. Unbelievable. Flowers. Beautiful huge trees. Nice walkways. Great places for taking family photos 
    Absolutely lovely gardens. Unbelievable. Flowers. Beautiful huge trees. Nice walkways. Great places for taking family photos  more »
  • Amazing oaks, peaceful walk. Easy parking, no lines. Quiet. I realize it is out if season, but it was enjoyable and some things were in bloom. I do look forward to seeing it in bloom. Locals say... 
    Amazing oaks, peaceful walk. Easy parking, no lines. Quiet. I realize it is out if season, but it was enjoyable and some things were in bloom. I do look forward to seeing it in bloom. Locals say...  more »
Google
  • Very enjoyable and reasonably priced. I was surprised that bikes and runners were not allowed, neither are pets but after seeing people leave their trash it is understandable that they can only assume they would have to have staff to clean up after them too. The staff was very organized and you are left alone to enjoy your tour unless you ask for a guide. After parking you go inside to scan your prepaid ticket(s) and are given a map, restrooms are clean and at the entry/exit, the walk is enjoyable and there are several.benches in the shade to rest if you need to, the entire walk was well under 10k steps. Beautiful and very photogenic place to visit.
  • This was my first visit here and I was blown away by the sights and sounds. From the initial entry way, to the butterfly house and so much more in between. From time to time they feature select artists and display their art throughout the garden. Lots to see and explore. I saw several different picnic areas and this place is very quiet and tranquil. It's definitely a must see and do, if you're looking for an escape and/or in need of some personal peace. Absolutely loved my time there and would highly recommend it.
  • Had a great time, they have an electric cart to take you around. Driver of the cart served as a tour guide also. Beautiful gardens and wildlife. Butterfly pavilion was great too! Would love to come back for the holiday light display if we could! Highly recommend!
  • Amazing garden with lots to see and walking to do. Family friendly location that is great for a picnic or just a day trip into area. Butterfly house has great design/decor near it. Depending on weather, highly suggested to bring water. Wildlife can be scene in its natural habit and do not seem to be fearful of humans but still wouldn’t advise getting too close to wild animals. Gift shop has plenty of merchandise to remember your visit along with friendly staff.
  • Beautiful walk with the family here. The gardens are very well maintained. This would be a great venue for any sort of out door event, when things are blooming. In addition to the flowers and trees, there is also some wildlife you can come across. Turtles, egrets, osprey, etc. Takes between 1 and 2 hours to casually walk around the grounds. Wish that there had been butterflies in the butterfly house but maybe thats only filled during a certain time of year (wish they had a sign outside so that you knew that before carefully going through the double doors just to find nothing)

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