Paradise Garden is Howard Finster’s art environment at 200 North Lewis Street in Summerville, Georgia. Its 2.5-acre setting brings together colorful works made from varied materials, and it is about a five-minute drive from Coach Inn, a Summerville hotel.
- Location: 200 North Lewis Street, Summerville, GA 30747.
- Opening pattern: Open Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday
- General admission: $15 for adults, $10 for seniors age 62 and older, and $6 for students.
- Getting there: Follow Highway 27 to just past mile marker 13, then turn onto Rena Street.
Where Is Paradise Garden in Summerville?
Paradise Garden sits at 200 North Lewis Street, about 3 miles north of downtown Summerville and two blocks south of Walmart in Trion. It is an art environment created by Howard Finster, set in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
To place the garden in the wider area, you can also read what to know about Summerville city centre.
What Can You See at the Garden?
The garden combines colorful works made from varied materials, with themes that include people, mechanical objects, Christian faith and nature. Finster began the garden in 1961, and it was the focus of his work for more than 30 years. Chattooga County says he created more than 46,000 original artworks.
The garden’s self-guided tours let you explore at your own pace. On-site amenities include parking, a gift shop and public restrooms.
When Is Paradise Garden Open, and How Much Are Tickets?
Paradise Garden is open year-round, rain or shine. General admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors age 62 and older, and $6 for students. Children 12 and under, Chattooga County residents and Paradise Garden members enter free.
Opening hours
- Tuesday to Sunday: 11 AM–5 PM
- Monday: closed
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
For group visits and field trips, contact the foundation about rates at info@paradisegardenfoundation.org or 706-808-0800. Hours and admission can change, so check the official site before you go.
How Do You Get to Paradise Garden from Summerville?
For the approach, follow Highway 27 to just past mile marker 13, turn right onto Rena Street, then continue three blocks to the dead end of Lewis Street.
Take care with navigation: Google Maps may direct you to the northern part of Lewis Street. The foundation says the correct entrance is not the previous entrance at Knox Street.
How Should You Plan a Visit?
Check the opening pattern before setting out, then use the Highway 27 approach and confirm you are heading to the Lewis Street entrance. Since the garden offers self-guided tours, you can explore its outdoor art environment independently.
Parking and public restrooms are available on site. For another area outing, James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park has its own guide to what to know before you go.
FAQs
Where is Paradise Garden?
It is at 200 North Lewis Street, Summerville, GA 30747, about 3 miles north of downtown Summerville.
Is Paradise Garden open every day?
Open Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday.
Who gets free admission?
Children 12 and under, Chattooga County residents and Paradise Garden members enter free.
What is Paradise Garden known for?
It is Howard Finster’s art environment, with colorful works made from varied materials and themes including people, mechanical objects, Christian faith and nature.