Airlie Gardens, Wilmington, NC

The Airlie Gardens have been part of the North Carolina culture since 1901. They represent the formal gardens of the old south. The main attraction at Airlie Gardens is the 462 year old Airlie Oak tree. Through a grant by the Clean Water Management Trust Fund and local residents the Airlie Gardens have been preserved for future generations. Bradley Creek meanders near the gardens that include walking paths and many varieties of wildlife.

Airlie began as a grant from King George II. The Ogden brothers were the recipients of the King's gratitude in 1735. However, Joshua Grainger Wright gained ownership of the property in the 1800's. In 1901 Pembroke and Sarah Jones began designing what is today Airlie Gardens. Once they bought the property, they gave exclusive parties at the estate. A renowned German landscaper, Rudolph Topel was commissioned to complete the gardens for the Jones family.

New Hanover County holds the sixty seven acre Airlie Gardens. The purchase of Airlie Gardens continues with Wilmington's commitment to the culture of the south and their protection of the environment. The blooming of the azaleas and camellias bring visitors through the gates in both the winter and spring. Flowering plants are changed with the seasons so that Airlie Garden is in constant bloom.

Miles of trails are incorporated throughout the gardens. This offers visitors a chance to view the many sculptures. Airlie Gardens provides a haven for over a hundred classifications of birds. The coastal nature of the gardens ensures that many different types migrate throughout the year.

Enjoy a slow stroll through the gardens when you take a self guided tour. A map is included in the admission price. For guests that may need assistance, there are golf carts that can be reserved forty eight hours before arrival. The paths that encompass the Airlie Gardens will take you past freshwater lakes.

Airlie Gardens honors its commitment to on- going education through it many programs. They open their gates to summer camps as well as schools. Many opportunities exist for the guests of the gardens to enjoy specially designed programs. The Airlie Bird Hike is just one of the popular programs that take place during the spring of the year.

Mount Lebanon Chapel is available for weddings. Prospective brides can contact St. James Church in Wilmington to book this beautiful venue. Other areas that provide a wonderful setting are the Pergola Garden and the Bottle Chapel lawn area. The Airlie Gardens are a very popular site for weddings, so you must secure a date eighteen months in advance.

Pricing for the gardens is $5.00 for adults and only $3.00 for children ages 6 -12. There are seasonal hours for viewing the gardens. During the winter January 2 - March 19, they are open six days a week, from 9:00 am to 5:00pm Mon - Sat. The Spring Season which is April 3 - May 17 has the gardens open seven days;Sunday to Wednesday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and they keep longer hours Thursday - Saturday 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.