If you're searching for a mini-vacation outside of Atlanta, Gibbs Gardens is the perfect place to stop and smell the flowers. Just an hour out of town, located in Ball Ground, Georgia, this recent addition to the floral wonderlands of the South is still somewhat of a secret, but your first visit will definitely not be your last.
The gardens are the creation of Jim Gibbs, the retired President and founder of Gibbs Landscape Company and a founder of the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Mr. Gibbs has gardening in his blood and spent six years searching for the perfect spot for this extravagant park. You may even meet Mr. Gibbs during your visit, as he enjoys strolling through his terrain.
The 220 acres of grounds include 16 gardens, 19 waterfalls, and 32 bridge crossings - this is no humble little woodland! Given the size of the park, you may wish to take some time in the Welcome Center and plan your day. Starting March 21, the trams will be running in the park, for visitors who prefer to ride out to the various gardens instead of walking. Also, the web site has a helpful Bloom Calendar which can assist in planning your visit so that you won't miss your favorite fauna. For example, fans of roses won't want to miss the summer Rose Festival, with over 1,000 blooming beauties!
The gardens are open from 9:30 - 5 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays, from March 1 through November.
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