A flowing stream passes through the valley, azaleas and mountain laurels blossom, springs burst forth, and dogwoods stretch high at the world-class Gibbs Gardens in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. Founded by Jim Gibbs, who wanted to pass down gardening from his grandparents to his children and grandchildren, Gibbs Gardens: Seasons of Color is a special place to visit on your next vacation to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Considered one of the nation’s largest residential gardens, Gibbs Gardens is split between the Valley Gardens and Manor House Gardens. Nestled on 300+ acres just north of Atlanta in Ball Ground, GA, Gibbs Gardens grows 16 gardens along with 3 feature gardens — the Manor House Garden, Japanese Garden, and Waterlily Garden.
Explore miles of walkways, 24 ponds, 19 waterfalls, 32 bridges, garden rooms, millions of naturalized ferns, a gift shop, and a cafe. It takes about 3-4 hours to get the full Gibbs Gardens experience, or you can just visit one section of the beautiful botanical gardens for 1-2 hours. Come feast your eyes on the gorgeous and mesmerizing Gibbs Gardens: Seasons of Color!
Valley Gardens
Just off the garden entrance is the Valley Gardens area that features the welcome center, The Seasons Gift Store, and the Arbor Café. Wander through Waterlily Garden and cross the Monet Bridge before coming across 7 more beautiful bridge crossings and reaching the enchanting Grandchildren’s Sculpture Garden.
Further ahead, you’ll come across a traditional Torii gate that leads into the Japanese Garden. Enter the Fern Dell, stroll over the zigzag bridge, and snap a selfie at the gazebo. Further out, you can check out the cherry blossoms, daffodil gardens, Japanese maples, roses, daylilies, tulips, and crape myrtles. And don’t forget the Wildflower Meadow and Butterfly Gardens!
Note: Some areas within Valley Gardens are wheelchair accessible, including the Waterlily Garden, Grandchildren’s Sculpture Garden, and Japanese Garden. There are also 126 benches to rest and enjoy the natural beauty.
Manor House Gardens
Further into Gibbs Gardens lies Manor House Gardens that features a mixed-European manor, a summerhouse, gazebo, cabana, pool, and mountain view. You can begin your journey from the second entrance or continue from the Valley Gardens area. Starting from the previous journey, you’ll turn into the Inspiration Garden that features the Dwarf Conifer Garden plus encore and native azaleas.
Next up is the Woodland Garden, then the featured Manor House Gardens with the great lawn that leads to the rose arbor, fish pool, and waterfall. You can peel off to visit the rhododendrons and hydrangeas before checking out the Green & White Garden and Sunken Garden. Finally, you’ll come across an overlook to view the lush gardens from a different perspective.
The Details
Hours
Currently closed for winter + reopens mid-February 2022
Admission
Adult — $20
Senior — $18
Child — $10
Location
1987 Gibbs Dr
Ball Ground, GA 30107
Contact
Gibbs Gardens: Seasons of Color
info@gibbsgardens.com
770.893.1880
Where to Stay
When planning your Gibbs Gardens adventure in North Georgia, consider staying at a local cabin rental to add to your experience. Georgia Cabins for YOU features cabins of all shapes, sizes, and budgets to suit your vacation style. Our cabins also boast gorgeous views, from fantastic fall colors to a winter wonderland. You can also visit local wineries, Appalachian restaurants, seasonal events, fun attractions, the nearby Hamilton Gardens, and the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Whether you want a classic cabin with a mountain view from the hot tub, a large group lodge to host your family reunion, or a romantic getaway for 2 with all the trimmings, we have the cabin for YOU! Check out our selection of cozy cabin rentals in Blue Ridge and Ellijay, GA, and feel free to reach out with any questions at 1.800.580.5524 today.
Ready to explore the world-class Gibbs Gardens with family and friends? Book a nearby cabin and make it a vacation to remember!
