Cypress Gardens
A magical swamp garden near Charleston, famous for 'The Notebook' rowboat scenes and lush cypress trees.
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Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Cypress Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical swamp garden near Charleston, famous for 'The Notebook' rowboat scenes and lush cypress trees.
"Experience the romance of 'The Notebook' with a serene rowboat ride through a stunning cypress swamp."
🎯 Arrive Early for Boats
Long waits for rowboats are common, especially on weekends. Get there at opening!
💧 Beat the Heat
The Carolina heat can be intense. Visit in the morning or late afternoon.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Notebook Rowboat Scene
Swamp waterways
Recreate iconic movie moments by paddling through the serene cypress swamp.
Butterfly House
Immerse yourself in a vibrant sanctuary filled with fluttering butterflies.
Nature Trails
Wander scenic paths surrounded by towering cypress trees and diverse wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & the Crowds
+2Boat Tour Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Boats
Long waits for rowboats are common, especially on weekends. Get there at opening!
💧 Beat the Heat
The Carolina heat can be intense. Visit in the morning or late afternoon.
💰 Affordable Admission
Entry is just $10 per person, offering great value for the experience.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Perfect spot for photographers, especially those inspired by 'The Notebook'.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Boats
Long waits for rowboats are common, especially on weekends. Get there at opening!
💧 Beat the Heat
The Carolina heat can be intense. Visit in the morning or late afternoon.
💰 Affordable Admission
Entry is just $10 per person, offering great value for the experience.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Perfect spot for photographers, especially those inspired by 'The Notebook'.
🧺 Picnic Friendly
Bring your own food and enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cypress Gardens for its natural beauty, affordability, and the unique 'Notebook' rowboat experience. Many highlight the serene atmosphere and the chance to see local wildlife. However, long wait times for the popular rowboats and the intense heat during summer can be drawbacks for some.
"We really enjoyed our visit! The 1.6-mile hike was beautiful, surrounded by cypress trees at every turn. We considered the boat rides, which looked amazing, but opted for the paved trail instead. The path eventually turns to gravel, but it was still stroller-friendly.
At the entrance, there’s a nice play area for kids and toddlers to burn off some energy. After purchasing tickets, we didn’t need to show them again. The entrance area also has a small gift shop, bathrooms, a butterfly room, a reptile room, and more.
We spent about two hours here and had a great time!"
Andrew Leizens
"This was our second visit to the Cypress Gardens and it was wonderful. The facilities and grounds are beautiful and maintained nicely. To me, for a family, this is a great day trip with just enough to do to never get bored, but also not so overwhelming that you feel you have to skip activities. Additionally, plenty of areas to bring your own food in and have a picnic, surrounded by beautiful scenery (but please, clean up after yourself!) The playground is very nice for most ages and the added splash pad looks adorable (though we did not use this time). We love to walk the trails and then end on a visit to the butterfly house and the serpentarium. I will say, we have never taken a boat out; on our first visit, it was rainy and my daughter didn't feel up to it. This time, the boats were booked up with a 3 hour wait, though they did tell us at the entrance before paying which was very helpful on their part. We did expect this though as it was Labor Day and we were sure they'd be packed. All this to say, SC is gorgeous and Cypress Gardens does terrific job of showcasing its natural beauty!"
Melissa Fairchild
"Make sure you arrive early if you want to do the rowboats. The paid boats were sold out by 12:30 so we put our name on the list for the free self guided ones. We were told it would probably take ~5 hours to get to the front of the list from spot 60. A lot of people must have canceled because we managed to get on the very last boat after waiting 3 hours. The staff by the rowboats was amazing and helped keep spirits high! Dickie was really great - he was friendly and patient. He answered all of our questions. My number one birthday wish was riding in a rowboat and they made it happen.
The rowboat was by far my favorite part of Cypress Gardens, but I loved walking around the swamp and the butterfly gardens as well. The reptile exhibit had a lot of cool animals."
Kiernan Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cypress Gardens is conveniently located about 30-40 minutes north of Charleston, South Carolina, making it an easy day trip.
From Charleston, take US-52 N/US-17 N and then follow signs for Cypress Gardens Road. It's a straightforward drive.
Public transportation options are limited. Driving is the most practical way to reach Cypress Gardens.
Parking is available on-site and is generally ample, though it can fill up during peak times.
Yes, many Charleston-based tour operators include Cypress Gardens as a stop, often combining it with other local attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically $10 per person. This grants access to the gardens and the self-guided boat tours.
While the general admission is $10, some reviews mention $5 for kids, so it's best to check their official website for current pricing.
Advance booking is not usually required for general admission, but it's wise to check their website during peak seasons or holidays.
Hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Cypress Gardens website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times.
Yes, self-guided boat tours are included with the general admission fee. Guided tours may have an additional cost.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond the iconic rowboat tours, explore the Butterfly House, reptile exhibits, nature trails, and a playground.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the gardens, trails, and attractions.
Yes, guided boat tours are offered and can be a great option if you want to learn more about the swamp's ecosystem.
Absolutely! Keep an eye out for alligators, turtles, various bird species, and other swamp inhabitants.
Many of the main paths are paved and stroller-friendly, though some trails may be gravel.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited food options on-site, usually a small gift shop with snacks. It's recommended to bring your own food for a picnic.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy picnics in designated areas. Please clean up after yourselves.
Yes, picnic tables are available throughout the grounds, offering scenic spots to enjoy your meal.
Nearby Moncks Corner and Charleston offer a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining.
Typically, alcohol is not permitted within the park grounds. It's best to confirm their specific policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic rowboat scenes, the Spanish moss-draped cypress trees, and the Butterfly House offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! Its romantic, natural beauty makes it a popular choice for engagement and wedding photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural parks and preserves. It's advisable to check Cypress Gardens' specific drone policy.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing a magical atmosphere.
Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the rowboats are popular, consider the wait times. If the heat or wait is a concern, the nature trails and other attractions provide plenty of fun. Bringing a picnic is also a great way to keep everyone happy and fed without breaking the bank.
📸 Photographers & Film Buffs
Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the most dramatic lighting. Be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment to capture the best shots.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The tranquil atmosphere and picturesque scenery make it an ideal spot for a romantic escape. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, or simply stroll hand-in-hand along the nature trails. The gardens offer a peaceful and beautiful setting for quality time together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Notebook' Connection
+2While the rowboat experience is a major draw, remember that it's a natural swamp environment. The beauty lies in its wild, untamed charm, which perfectly complements the film's romantic narrative. Be prepared for the humidity and the unique ecosystem that makes this place so special.
Navigating the Rowboat Experience
To manage expectations, visitors often suggest arriving at opening or opting for a guided tour. Guided tours provide insights from a knowledgeable guide and eliminate the wait for a self-guided boat. Some visitors found the guided tour to be a more relaxed and informative experience, especially in the heat.
Beyond the Boats: Exploring the Gardens
For those who prefer to stay on land, the nature trails provide a beautiful way to explore the park. These trails wind through the cypress swamp, offering opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The grounds are also well-maintained, with picnic areas perfect for a family outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit