The Lewis Vaughn Botanical Gardens is Rockdale County's only large arboretum, with over 100 species of unusual, exotic plants that were not originally native to North America. The arboretum, named for the county parks department's first superintendent, is a terrific spot for folks to get away from their stressful life and enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of nature.

People come here for a variety of purposes, including admiring rare plant species, taking pictures, eating lunch on a bench in the shade of big trees, walking their dogs, or just getting away from it all for a time.

Louis Vaughn, a Rockdale County pioneer, formerly lived in the library. His home was built in 1852 and became known as Vaughn's Folly since it was not completed until three years after his death. Lewis Vaughn Botanical Gardens is open from sunrise to dark every day. The library, located on the grounds' east side, is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.

The Lewis Vaughn Botanical Gardens opened in 1959 as a result of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Vaughn's donation of 200 acres of property to the Rockdale County Board of Education for educational, recreational, and horticultural purposes. It is a magnificent site to visit for an hour or all day, with its gorgeous landscaping, walking pathways, gazebo, arbors, benches, rock walls, and waterfalls.

Many events are held in the Lewis Vaughn Botanical Gardens throughout the year, including Harvest Days in October, Lights of Christmas in December, Spring Fling in April, Founder's Day in May, and the Museum Showcase in September. All of which are free for people of all ages to attend. There are also docent-led tours offered throughout the year, as well as senior discounts.

This information is provided by The Homestar Group.