Hopelands Gardens is a 14-acre public garden in Aiken, South Carolina. The estate was donated to the city by Mrs. C. Oliver Iselin and opened in 1969. The gardens feature a network of paths shaded by 100-year-old live oaks and deodar cedars. The paths and garden borders lead visitors through a variety of experiences.
The gardens include a camellia species garden, a collection of rare trees, shrubs, and other plants, a duck pond, and the Doll House, which is open when it does. The gardens also include a former winter colony home, Rye Patch, that sits on 10 more acres of history and tranquility.
Hopelands Gardens is family-friendly and has picnic tables, brick trails, and free hot cider and hot cocoa. Some say the gardens have a huge parking lot that can accommodate small and large vehicles.
Hopelands Gardens is also a venue that can be used for weddings, with starting prices of $2,697 for 50 guests.