Charlotte, NC – Is your day-after-Christmas feeling a little day-after-ish? Here’s an idea to brighten this day… um, literally.
The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont, NC (just outside of Charlotte, NC).
Even having lived in Charlotte for years, I had never visited this spot. It was while I stopped into the Matthews Police Department to learn both car seats are incorrectly installed, the policemen suggested I take the children to Daniel Stowe.
So off we went!
And I will remember that night forever. It was that good.
The gardens are composed of more than 300 acres, 10 of which are cultivated/manicured gardens. And the best part of all? They are wrapped in thousands of lights. THOUSANDS.
And many of the lights are designed to create flower, wisteria vines,vineyards and other flora themed displays.
The lights are woven around the fantastic water features throughout the gardens.
And at the fire pit, memories to be made with s’more kits. If there is one downer to this visit – it was the price of the s’more kids around 14 bucks for enough fixin’s to make about six s’mores. GASP! You can either look at this as a way to support a non-profit or you can just bring your own marshmallows, crackers and chocolate. There are plenty of sticks around to use for roasting.
C and his G.G. roasting marshmallows
You will buy your tickets inside at the visitor pavilion. Directly behind the ticket counter is an enormous Christmas tree made up of orchids and ferns. Magnificent.
A cafe offers hot chocolate, coffee and sweet treats and a model train display to entertain you.
Running though acres of beautifully and artistically arranged Christmas lights was a delight for us all!
Enjoy!
Anna