The Fran Hanson Discovery Center

Your gateway to the South Carolina Botanical Garden

FHDC Hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm and Sunday 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Closed University holidays (schedule), home football game Saturdays (schedule), July 4, and Dec. 22 to Jan. 2
Phone: 864-656-3405
Email: scbg@clemson.edu

The Fran Hanson Discovery Center was built in 1998 as "The Wren House," the first Southern Living© Idea House. A collaborative work of architect Keith Summerour and garden designer Ryan Gainey, the house design won awards and attracted visitors from around the country. The home was originally decorated with 85 works of art from 48 local artists, and designer Ann Platz decorated the home with furniture, antiques and decor from local shops. For the first few years of operation, the Wren House served as a Discovery Center for the Mountain Lakes Region of the South Carolina Heritage Corridor. Today it stands as the Fran Hanson Discovery Center, welcoming Garden and Museum visitors and showcasing destinations throughout the Upstate.

Pick up a garden map, a cold drink or a garden souvenir at the Garden Gift Shop located inside the Discovery Center. The Fran Hanson Discovery Center (FHDC) has a Nature Discovery Room with microscopes, resource books on insects and plants, and exhibits on the origins of plants and foods—a great stop for school groups! The FHDC staff will help you get started on your adventure through our 295 acres of woodlands, streams, paths, niche gardens and the Bob Campbell Geology Museum.

Upstairs you'll find art galleries with paintings by Elizabeth Belser Fuller and rotating exhibits by local artists. Visit the Featured Artists Gallery page for information on the current exhibit. The FHDC is also a popular wedding and event venue. Outdoor ramps and an indoor elevator make the building accessible for all of our guests.