Rip Van Winkle Gardens

For having such a silly name, this place is anything BUT silly. We stayed in Cook's cottage up by the gift shop area. The room was clean and well appointed. We had full access to the gardens after hours when no one but us was there. I cant say enough to describe how beautiful these gardens are. CRAZY!!!! All sorts of exotic bamboos and cycads and fountains and just prettiness everywhere you look! The main house is stunning sitting at the highest point on the property. This morning when we rounded the corner there must have been 10 peacocks sitting on the porch in the sun. I can not say enough good things about this place. The staff that we met were all super friends and very casual. We did not eat at the restaurant so I cant comment on it. Everything was just amazing! I will definitely be going back! Thank you!!!

We were very impressed with the Gardens. Wonderful location for the wedding, the atmosphere was exceptional along the lake. The Reception was very extrordinary, the food was excellent. The service was absolutely wonderful. The Gardens were so beautiful, I wish I had had more time to just linger in the sit down areas. The home was beautiful, but I didn't have time to go inside. Also, I would have loved to visit the gift shop, but will have to make another trip. I have already recommended the trip to several of my friends. We would like to know more of the history of Rip Van Winkle Gardens. Heard the lake was emptied into a salt mine, would like more info. THANKS FOR A WONDERFUL TIME. Audrey and Jerry Casso

The gardens are lovely and the Jefferson House is amazing, but don't bother eating at the cafe. The food is not very good and the service is terrible.

We recently visited Rip Van Winkle Gardens and were so impressed with the huge trees and gardens. It was a nice serene location and the history was astonding. We would definately recommend visiting this location if you are in the area.

I was younger when i visited, and I was still very impressed. I am looking forward to going back one day. It was beautiful and educational. This would be a great family outing or even a romantic place to spend the day with a significant other. I'm not sure on the damages that Hurricane Katrina might have left here so you might consider that. I was probably 11 or so when I went and now I'm 21 so it might be a little different. I hoping its still as beautifull as it was.