Don’t you have those favorite spots or products you just have to share with everyone because they’re that good?
I do. Whether it’s a place, a product, or an inspiring entrepreneur — if it shows up here, I’ve been there, used it, or bought it (probably more than once).
If something’s sponsored, I’ll tell you. But I only work with brands and people I truly love. Period.
I’m always on the hunt for beautiful places to explore — with my little family, with friends, or solo (because moms need space too, right?).
So, I’d heard whispers about this magical place somewhere near Swansboro. And if you’ve ever driven through Swansboro, you’ll know it already feels like a cozy American movie set — porch swings, cute boutiques, water views, and a whole lot of peace and quiet. But if you just keep going for a bit, you’ll land in Newport, NC, and find a little jungle heaven called:
And wow. Just wow.
This place isn’t just a garden center. It’s a soul-soothing, eye-candy-filled, plant-lover’s dream. A venue. A botanical wonderland. A creative haven. And yes — even the toilet is cute. No joke.
Walk through their gates and you’ll be greeted by room after room, garden after garden, full of stunning plants, trees, pots, and vintage details. But it’s more than aesthetics. It’s a feeling. This family-owned spot — built and run by the Watsons — is infused with creativity, quality, resilience, and love. You feel it.
Their story is one of building dreams in the face of setbacks. Not quitting. Evolving. Creating something better and more beautiful, even when life throws curveballs. And it shows. This is not just a business — it’s a heartbeat.
I’ve visited twice so far.
The first time, I went with my husband. We sat in one of the gardens, drank fresh lemonade and coffee, and devoured what I still declare the best banana bread of my life. The serenity was unreal. The whole place felt like pressing pause on life for a second.
The second time was with a friend and her aunt. She picked out a gorgeous plant to take home (still settling, but vibes are good and I trust my friends planting skills), and of course I went straight for the banana bread again. We found a cozy spot near the koi fish flagstone patio and just exhaled.
Oh, and did I mention the animals? Kids (and let’s be honest, adults too) will love meeting the two alpacas, goats, doves, and even horses that live on the property. My inner five-year-old was living.
And then we saw it: a food truck.
We had to try it. Most. Amazing. Nachos. Ever. The rest of the food? Also incredible.
Because that’s the thing about Carolina Home & Garden — it’s not just a plant paradise. It’s a place that hosts different food trucks, events, workshops, and local happenings. They’ve got a full agenda up on their website so you can check what’s going on before you visit (pro tip: do this — they’re also a wedding venue, and you don’t want to roll up in flip-flops mid-vows).
There’s also a vintage bar where you can order the most delicious botanical cocktails, coffee, fresh lemonade, and a rotating selection of wines and beers. It’s the kind of bar you want to hang out at — barefoot, slightly sun-kissed, maybe with a little dirt under your nails from picking out your next monster.
And guess what? If you’re kid-wrangling, they’ve got you covered too.
Next door is the Grace Adventure Park — a wild and wonderful play area created by one of the Watson sons. Think: treehouses, crafting, animal encounters, family fun and a whole lot of climbing and laughing. It’s perfect for burning off kid energy while you sneak another sip of botanical magic.
And inside the venue? Over 20 vintage arcade games and board games that give a nostalgic peek into how the Watsons grew up. It’s quirky, it’s charming, and it’s authentic. You just feel… welcome.
Want to visit?
You should.
Whether you’re hunting for plants, in need of a peaceful place to work (without kids or clingy husbands), or looking for a weekend outing with the family — Carolina Home & Garden is a little world of its own.
Don’t skip the banana bread.
Don’t skip the bar.
Definitely don’t skip the food truck!
And let me know when you’re going. Maybe I’ll see you there.
📍 Carolina Home & Garden
4778 NC-24, Newport, NC 28570
📞 252-393-9004
🌐 www.carolinahomegarden.com
📲 Find them on Instagram and Facebook
