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Swan Lake Iris Gardens
Rating Details »
- Hours:
Mon-Sun. 7:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
7 reviews for Swan Lake Iris Gardens
For Sumter, this place is amazing. i have been enjoying this place, and the bird bites, since I was a kid kicking and screaming my way through the park. The little playground was always fun after feeding the birds and walk around the lake. I love the flowers that bloom here, that it's free, and it is very user friendly. If it is a little smelly and not so great looking, most likely it is from the unkempt visitors and the fact that it is an outdoor LAKE with ANIMALS.
Still awesome is the fire truck on the playground. Much little people fun can be had on that and the entire playground. Have never played tennis here but that is also available. I also have not visited the new visitor center so I cannot vouch for that either.
If you are looking for something to do in Sumter, this is a great venue. Get some sunshine and some exercise and learn something too boot- now we're talking!
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- Useful (1)
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Well...I hate to be the sourpuss, BUT I truly think this place is overrated and awful. Maybe it's because I'm not from SC, but I just don't understand what everyone seems to like. I've been there several times and each time I was taken aback by the nasy water with a foul smell. The water has an awful lot of "gunk" floating in it! The green pic nic area is unsanitary as there is bird feces everywhere (the ground, the tables, etc.) and there are dangerous roots all along the walking path. Graffiti greets you in the above road bridge and the other side of this park is in terrible disrepair. Each time I have ever been to Swan Lake there are small children crying because of being attacked by the geese. They seem very aggressive and violent. Maybe if it were cleaned up, add security and some THING this place would be better. As is....it's merely ok.
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I have fond memories of coming here as a kid to run around and feed the swans and geese. Now, as an adult, I like to wander the paths and take in the lovely scenery. The Bland Gardens across the street (connected by a covered walkway that goes over Liberty Street) are particularly nice for a quiet stroll.
I like to come here sometimes if I want to get a quick getaway from the daily grind. The trees around the park provide shade for most of the walking trail so it's a pleasant trip.
There's a playground off beyond the end of the South (main) parking lot as well as a big open grassy area with some picnic tables for lounging about or letting the kids run around.
This beautiful public pond and garden is Sumter's claim to fame. Walking trails take you around the pond where you will find all eight species of swan (the only public park in the US to feature all 8 species) as well as ducks & other birds. Pavillions are available on a first come first serve basis, great for grilling out next to the park. Restrooms and a snack bar are available as well. Admission is free. Swan Lake is home to the Sumter Iris Festival each May, which is SC's oldest festival, and attracts approximately 10,000 people to Sumter. A covered walkway takes you over Liberty street, to the Bland Memorial Gardens on the North side of the road.
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This park is gorgeous! And the swans and other birds are beautiful until they start attacking you. It was fun!
Great place for exercise on the trail around the lake (1 1/2 miles). Also a great place for the family. You can bring in bread or cereal and feed it to the ducks and swans. They will walk right up to you and take it out of your hand. You will also see many turtles too. For Christmas they put up thousands of lights and decorations and is also free to drive around. It continues on another street with characters from disney to pixar.