Apart from the state parks and beaches, there's another hidden gem in South Carolina for all travel enthusiasts. The Swan Lake and Iris Garden in Sumter SC. The Swan Lake and Iris Garden is a 120-acre park located on West Liberty Street in the heart of Sumter, South Carolina, offering visitors a peaceful and calming atmosphere.
The picturesque combination of swan-occupied lake and beautiful flower beds attracts visitors from all over the world. This charming park has many attractions to offer, and in this blog post, we are here to explore them all.
Explore Swan Lake and Iris Garden in Sumter SC.
Spot all the swans and more.
Swan Lake and Iris Garden have all 8 swan species in one lake. This is the only public park in the United States that offers this. There are other water birds that like to use the lake too. You will see ducks and Canadian Geese too. Below is the list of the 8 species of swans.
Black Swans
Mute Swans
Whooper Swans
Black Neck Swans
Tundra Swans
Bewick's Swans
Trumpeter Swans
Coscoroba Swans
I love black swans, I always have but have only in my life seen 2 swans in the wild, they were white and in West Virginia. I was very happy to see the black swan and others here in Sumter, SC.
Fun Fact: Swans typically live for 20 to 30 years and mate for life.
History of Swan Lake and Iris Garden
The park was established in 1927 and was privately owned by a local businessman who was wealthy. Hamilton Bland began landscaping his garden with Japanese Iris plants. Rumor has it that the Irises failed so Mr. Bland ordered his staff to dig them up and toss them into the lake. The following year, the Irises bloomed and attracted attention from locals. This is when the area began to be known as The Iris Garden. Later in 1935, it was re-established by the Sumter Garden Club and renovated as Swan Lake and Iris Gardens after the pair of resident swans in the lake. Finally in 1949 the area was deeded to the city of Sumter.
Attractions at Swan Lake and Iris Garden
The park is known for its serene walking trails and stunning display of irises. You can stroll around the gardens and enjoy the beauty of the abundant flowers. This is one of the most beautiful places to walk, but as you can tell one of the park's main attractions is the swans that glide around the lake. Visitors can feed them or even rent paddle boats and view them from a closer distance. The park also features over 150 varieties of irises, including Japanese Irises and the rarest species of black iris.
There are more than just irises on show here, you will spot Japanese Magnolias, and Cypress Trees. Plus walking the property with the cute small bridges just makes this place picture perfect.
One of my favorite attractions is the section called Chocolate Garden. It smells so sweet. Who knew there were beautiful chocolate flowers. From Chocolate Daisies to Chocolate Cherry Tomatoes (Yes, I am with you, I didn't even know they existed), you will smell the lovely, sweet smell that will make you crave some chocolate. If you are a chocolate lover this is a great place to visit.
Another attraction in the garden is the Butterfly House or also known as the butterfly garden, where visitors can observe the lifecycle of the butterflies. The Butterfly House is open during the summer months and attracts visitors of all ages. Events and Activities at Swan Lake and Iris Garden Swan Lake and Iris Garden is known for hosting beautiful weddings. The garden offers a romantic and serene wedding location for couples, with the lake and beautiful flowers as a backdrop to the ceremony. The park also has several walking trails that allow visitors to take in the picturesque beauty of the park. Stroll around the park, take photos, and picnic with friends and family. This is a perfect place for family reunions. The walking trails lead to the many other attractions throughout the park.
The garden also hosts annual events like the spring plant sale and the Garden Festival in April. Don't forget the Easter Egg Hunt at Easter also. If you visit during late May or early June, you will be just in time for the annual iris festival. The festival is an event that showcases the collection of irises and offers food, drinks, and entertainment all day.
After spending all day admiring the beautiful lake and gardens you might be hungry or need a place to lay your head. Here is a little list below to help you with that in case you need it. Check below the pictures for a continued list of restaurants and accommodations.
Restaurants
You'll be seduced by the scent of smoky barbeque from The Bar-b-Que Hut, a local institution renowned for its fall-off-the-bone tender ribs and finger-lickin' good sauce.
Eggs Up Grill has the best breakfast in the area. From big city brunch to the classics, you cannot go wrong with this place. The coffee is great too.
Who could resist the irresistible allure of Baker Sweets, a sweet haven where every bite takes you on a journey of buttery crusts and luscious fillings? So come, explore Sumter; your gastronomic adventure awaits! The coffee is great too.
Look for the Palmetto Oyster House. This aquatic-themed eatery serves not just the freshest catch of the day, but it's also a testament to South Carolina's coastal heritage. The locally sourced oysters and hand-breaded shrimp are the stars here, and they're so succulent and juicy, you'll hear the ocean with every bite. Also, you have to try the unique Po House Alligator Cheesecake appetizer.
And then there's Willie Sues a cozy nook for great food and a great bar selection. Take your pick from a variety of items on the menu, from Sandwiches to Flounder, they have it all.
Accommodations
Fancy a quaint inn with a side of history? Try the iconic 1912 Bed and Breakfast, a beautifully restored Southern manor.
For those seeking the comforts of a modern setup, the Hyatt Place Sumter/Downtown offers chic rooms and a rooftop bar with stunning city views.
Let's not forget the budget-friendly Hampton Inn Sumter, known for its hearty breakfast and friendly staff.
If a bustling city vibe is more your style, check out Tru by Hilton Downtown Sumter Apartment, a stylish and modern space located in the heart of the city.
And of course, for those who love the rustic allure of camping, you can't go wrong with the Poinsett State Park Campground, where the sights and sounds of nature are your welcoming committee.
Sumter, South Carolina's Swan Lake and Iris Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and flowers. The park offers a serene and calm atmosphere, perfect for a daytime escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From the swans to the elaborate flower beds, the Butterfly House to the different walking trails, there's something for everyone at Swan Lake and Iris Garden. Plan your next trip to Sumter and unwind at this hidden gem in beautiful South Carolina.
Thanks to my friend, Lauren Simmons for letting me know about this wonderful place.
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