Elizabethan Gardens Manteo
A 10-acre living memorial on Roanoke Island, offering a tranquil escape with historical significance and stunning botanical displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak blooms & butterfly releases
Elizabethan Gardens Manteo
Best Time
Peak blooms & butterfly releases
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 10-acre living memorial on Roanoke Island, offering a tranquil escape with historical significance and stunning botanical displays.
"A must-see for visitors and locals alike, offering a tranquil and shaded reprieve."
🦋 Butterfly Release Magic
Catch the summer butterfly releases twice weekly for a truly enchanting experience!
☀️ Shade on Hot Days
The gardens offer a welcome, shaded respite from the Outer Banks sun. Perfect for a break.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Queen Elizabeth & Virginia Dare Statue
Near the entrance
A poignant tribute to the historical figures connected to the Lost Colony. A must-see for history buffs.
The Sunken Garden
Central area
A beautifully designed formal garden with fountains and intricate landscaping, offering a serene atmosphere.
Butterfly Release
Various garden areas
Witness hundreds of butterflies take flight during summer releases – a magical experience for all ages.
Waterfront Overlook
Along the Sound
Enjoy tranquil views of the Roanoke Sound, a perfect spot for quiet reflection and scenic photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦋 Butterfly Release Magic
Catch the summer butterfly releases twice weekly for a truly enchanting experience!
☀️ Shade on Hot Days
The gardens offer a welcome, shaded respite from the Outer Banks sun. Perfect for a break.
🎶 Enchanting Music
Enjoy the subtle classical music piped throughout the grounds for an upscale, tranquil vibe.
🌿 Plant Sales Available
The on-site greenhouse and nursery often sell plants to the public. Take a piece of the gardens home!
Tips
from all over the internet
🦋 Butterfly Release Magic
Catch the summer butterfly releases twice weekly for a truly enchanting experience!
☀️ Shade on Hot Days
The gardens offer a welcome, shaded respite from the Outer Banks sun. Perfect for a break.
🎶 Enchanting Music
Enjoy the subtle classical music piped throughout the grounds for an upscale, tranquil vibe.
🌿 Plant Sales Available
The on-site greenhouse and nursery often sell plants to the public. Take a piece of the gardens home!
✨ Winterlights Spectacle
Don't miss the stunning Winterlights display during the holiday season; it's a Manteo gem!
🚶♀️ Explore with a Map
Grab a map to help navigate the expansive grounds and identify the diverse plant species.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Elizabethan Gardens' tranquil beauty, historical significance, and meticulous upkeep. It's a highly recommended peaceful escape from the beach, offering shade and a serene atmosphere with lovely seasonal events like the Winterlights and butterfly releases.
"Amazing established gardens with 60 plus years of work! This place is tranquil and shaded for a reprieve on a hot, sunny day. Well worth the admission and also loaded with history of the flora and fauna as well as the people and events that shaped the gardens. There is a very nice waterfront overlooking the Sound. Also the greenhouse and nursery sells many plants to the public if you are interested. The staff has all the answers if you have questions about anything related to the gardens or history of the place. A must see for visitors and locals alike!"
Sam Mott
"I would have rated my visit at 5 stars, but sadly I was there at the beginning of April when most things were not in bloom.
The facility has some lovely grounds with loads of different trees, flowers, and plant species. The flowers that were in bloom were lovely and all the grounds were clean and tidy. I did enjoy the fact that they piped classical music around the grounds, giving a very upscale vibe."
John Hunter
"I absolutely loved my walk through these fabulous gardens. Well designed (of course), well maintained and a joy to adventure through or just saunter and breathe. And a nice diversion from the beach - salt life. And I loved all the fountains & the faint fairy music playing along the trail."
Lyl Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Elizabethan Gardens are located in Manteo, North Carolina, on Roanoke Island. They are easily accessible by car and are often visited as part of a broader Outer Banks trip. Parking is available on-site.
Public transportation options directly to the Elizabethan Gardens are limited. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or as part of a guided tour. It's best to check local Manteo transit schedules if relying on public transport.
Yes, the gardens are a popular stop for visitors staying in various Outer Banks towns. It's a scenic drive from Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, and Hatteras.
Many visitors combine a trip to the Elizabethan Gardens with a visit to the NC Aquarium, Festival Park, or the shops in downtown Manteo.
Yes, Manteo offers several charming inns and hotels, including waterfront suites, making it convenient to stay close to the gardens.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for entry to the Elizabethan Gardens. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Elizabethan Gardens website for their current hours of operation before your visit.
While not always explicitly stated, purchasing tickets online in advance is often a good strategy for popular attractions to save time. Check the official website for online booking options.
Yes, special events like the Winterlights display often have separate admission fees or require advance booking. Keep an eye on their event calendar.
Parking is typically available on-site and is often included with admission, but it's always best to confirm upon arrival or check their website.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Explore 10 acres of themed gardens, historical statues, fountains, and a waterfront overlook. Enjoy audio tours and learn about the flora and fauna.
Absolutely! Kids often enjoy the butterfly releases, the statues, and the general exploration. The 'Dunn-Gourds' activity is a fun way for children to connect with nature.
Yes, photography is encouraged! The gardens offer numerous picturesque spots. Some visitors have even used innovative tech like smart glasses for filming. 
Audio tours are available, providing in-depth information about the gardens' history and plant life. Staff are also often on hand to answer questions.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be exploring the grounds. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, especially during warmer months.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Elizabethan Gardens primarily focuses on the botanical experience. While there might not be a full-service restaurant on-site, nearby Manteo offers a variety of dining options.
Picnics are generally allowed in designated areas of many gardens, but it's best to check the specific rules for the Elizabethan Gardens regarding outside food and beverages.
Manteo's downtown area, a short drive away, has numerous restaurants offering seafood, casual fare, and local specialties.
Information about on-site cafes or snack bars is not widely available. It's advisable to plan for meals before or after your visit.
Manteo's diverse culinary scene likely offers vegetarian and vegan options. Exploring local restaurant menus online is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner offers a photo opportunity! The Sunken Garden, the waterfront, the statues, and the diverse plant life provide stunning backdrops.
Regulations regarding drone usage can be strict at historical and botanical sites. It's essential to check the Elizabethan Gardens' specific policy on drones before flying.
For professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the gardens in advance to inquire about permits or specific guidelines.
Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer beautiful, soft light. Midday can be harsh, but the shaded areas provide some relief.
Yes, photographing the diverse plant species is a highlight for many visitors. Just be mindful of other guests and the delicate nature of the plants.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The gardens also offer a fun activity called 'Dunn-Gourds', which helps children connect with nature in an engaging way. Beyond the special events, the sheer exploration of the 10-acre site, with its statues, fountains, and diverse plant life, provides plenty of wonder. It's a great place for children to burn off energy in a beautiful, safe environment, offering a welcome break from the beach. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for little feet!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1The waterfront overlook provides stunning views of the Roanoke Sound, perfect for landscape shots. Early morning and late afternoon 'golden hours' offer the most flattering light. Be sure to check the gardens' policy on drone usage if you plan to capture aerial perspectives.
🌿 Garden & Nature Lovers
Beyond the visual appeal, the gardens offer a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, a perfect antidote to the salt and sun of the Outer Banks. The gentle sounds of fountains and classical music enhance the serene experience. Don't forget to visit the on-site nursery, where you might find a special plant to take home.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Memorial: History of the Gardens
Visitors can explore themed areas that reflect different aspects of this historical period. Key features include statues of Queen Elizabeth and Virginia Dare, America's first English child born in the New World. The gardens also showcase a variety of plants that would have been common during that time, alongside contemporary flora, creating a rich tapestry of history and nature. Audio tours are available to provide deeper insights into the historical context and the specific plants found within the grounds.
This dedication to historical accuracy and preservation makes the Elizabethan Gardens a unique destination. It offers a tranquil escape while simultaneously serving as an educational journey into a pivotal chapter of American history. The ongoing care and development by dedicated staff and volunteers ensure that the gardens remain a vibrant and meaningful tribute for generations to come.
Experiencing the Gardens: Tips from Visitors
+1Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the 10-acre site offers plenty to explore. Visitors also highlight the benefit of the gardens' natural shade, making it an ideal spot to escape the midday sun. The inclusion of classical music piped throughout the grounds adds to the serene and upscale ambiance, a detail frequently mentioned in reviews.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the on-site greenhouse and nursery, where you can purchase plants. For those interested in history, utilizing the audio tours or engaging with the knowledgeable staff can significantly enhance the experience, providing context for the flora, fauna, and historical significance of the site.
Seasonal Delights: Beyond Spring Blooms
As the weather cools, the gardens transform for the holiday season with the spectacular Winterlights event. This display is a local favorite, often cited as one of the best in the area, featuring elaborate light installations throughout the grounds.
Even in the off-season, like early spring or fall, the gardens offer a peaceful and well-maintained environment. While some flowers may not be in full bloom, the structured landscaping, diverse trees, and historical elements still provide a rewarding visit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit