Swan Lake Iris Gardens

The park is two city blocks, separated by a major thoroughfare but joined by an elevated walkway (handicap access by elevators at each end). Except for the road noise, it's a fabulous place. The lake in the southern half is large and beautiful, surrounded by cypress forest; the stream in the northern half is equally attractive. And throughout the park are swans. Swans, swans, swans. Had no idea there were so many different kinds of swans.

It's a very gorgeous little spot to visit. There are a number of different plants and swans living there. It's always very clean and well maintained.

What a awesome place. Will be back.

Website says open 'til dusk, but the park was closed at 6:30 when we tried to go...sunset wasn't 'til after 8:30.

I got to visit in the early winter and it was still very pretty not too cold and the sun was out

I used to live in Sumter and I loved coming here to let my little one play in some grass and let him observe some wildlife local to the area (with the exception of the beautiful collection of swans). We even saw a beaver one time. TONS of turtles and lots of ducks/geese/swans. My only advice is to avoid summer time around the main pond, as the heat makes the smell too much for some people with sensitive noses. But fall and spring are my favorite times to go. Beautiful and great spots for pictures, and even weddings. Free any time of the year and sometimes, if you can beat out a crowd by going during the week and during normal work/school hours, incredibly tranquil. The plants are amazing subjects of drawing, and they have quite a collection. The chocolate garden is also a wonder to the senses. If you are ever in Sumter, this is definitely a place to go.

A nice stop. There are lots of little informational stops where recorded voices tell you about the foliage and vegetation. Tons of ducks and swans. Our time was cut short by a thunderstorm but I was impressed at how nice the place was. Free of charge as well, if you want to just wander around the lake.