Cypress Gardens

This 175-acre swamp/garden offers a walk-through Butterfly House with free-flying butterflies, beautiful plants, birds and more. The Swamparium features fish, reptiles and amphibians native to the swamp and nearby waterways. Representative animals from swamps of the world are also displayed. Picnic shelters and a gift shop are other amenities at the park. The swamp/garden is easily accessible with four miles of walking paths and the famous bateaus (flat bottom boats). Once part of Dean Hall Plantation, the gardens are especially lovely in spring when the azaleas, dogwoods, wisteria and daffodils are in bloom. Many movies like "The Patriot" and "The Notebook" have been filmed at this beautiful location. It's well worth the drive – and price.