Airlie Gardens

Airlie Gardens is a beautiful public garden tucked away in Wilmington NC. This 67-acre oasis is home to stunning natural gardens and eye-catching artworks.

It’s a place where time seems to stop. Where tidal creeks churn and birds call. Where flowers bloom and trees flourish. And where the massive Airlie Oak, dripping with Spanish moss, stands guard over all. You can return to our home page.

67 Acres of Stunning Gardens

Airlie Gardens is home to a collection of intricate and eye-catching natural gardens and eye-popping artworks that continue to impress generations of locals and visitors. The garden’s landscape is dotted with more than 100,000 red, white, and magenta-hued azalea bushes, as well as camellias, magnolias, and wisteria that thrive in the warm coastal climate.

The 67-acre lush oasis is maintained by dedicated staff and dotted with walking trails, freshwater lakes, historic structures, and sculptures. The gardens are also a haven for wildlife with birds, butterflies, and many other species calling the grounds home.

When you step inside Airlie, it is easy to feel transported back in time. The past and present merge seamlessly as you stroll through the lush gardens. A beautiful venue for weddings or a special day out.

Spectacular Azaleas & Camellias

Spectacular azaleas and camellias are the big draw at Airlie Gardens. These hardy flowers bloom during the cool months of fall and winter, adding color to the garden when most other plants are dormant. They also pair well with hellebores (Helleborus) that flower a month or so earlier with their pristine white to pink-tinged blossoms.

Airlie Gardens is a beautiful, 67-acre botanical garden filled with walking trails, freshwater lakes, and spectacular trees including mighty Southern live oaks and majestic wisteria. It is a popular place for weddings and has a number of historic structures. A non-profit, it is open to the public for a small fee. Memberships are available with benefits including free admission to the garden. Visit another area in town here.

Freshwater Lakes

The tidal creek, forest, and freshwater lake ecosystems at Airlie are home to more than 160 species of wildlife. Birding is a favorite activity for guests, and a dedicated staff leads guided walks to introduce visitors to this rich environment.

Airlie is also a popular venue for weddings and other private events. The garden’s historic structures and 10 acres of lakes are a beautiful backdrop for ceremonies or receptions. The Airlie Oak Lawn, draped with Spanish moss, creates the perfect setting for large, tented affairs.

During the holidays, the gardens come alive with thousands of sparkling lights at Enchanted Airlie. This popular event includes a self-guided tour of the grounds at night. Tickets are available online or onsite. All ticket options include onsite parking.

Historic Chapel & Cemetery

New Hanover County has a rich history that comes to life in many places. A visit to the Wilmington Railroad Museum and a walk along the historic district with its 230 blocks of homes, restaurants, museums, and galleries all offer glimpses into a local past.

One of the hidden treasures is the cemetery at Airlie Gardens, with its mighty oaks draped in Spanish moss. It’s the final resting place of Cornelius Harnett, leader of the 1766 Stamp Tax Rebellion. The headstone reads “Known in Eternity,” but not the man’s full name, offering an aura of mystery that’s only further fueled by the fact that it’s the only grave at the cemetery.

The garden also has a chapel built from wood and an old church at the entrance to the property.

Walking Tours

A variety of educational and recreational activities take place at the gardens throughout the year. The 67-acre garden features a butterfly house, freshwater Airlie Lake, historic structures, walking trails, sculptures, and more.

During the spring, guests can enjoy the massive Azalea Festival. Throughout the year, guests can also visit the serene and tranquil Minnie Evans Glass Sculpture Garden or the beautiful Mount Lebanon Chapel.

Airlie is home to many popular events, including a summer concert series and Enchanted Airlie around the holidays. During these events, visitors can stroll through the garden at dusk and tour lighted displays.

In order to attend these events, guests should purchase tickets in advance online or at the ticket window. This is especially important for those visiting during peak seasons like spring or Christmas. Check Out This Info.

 

Driving directions from Crystal Clear Shine to Airlie Gardens

Driving directions from Airlie Gardens to Ogden Park