After the lull of a long winter, nothing is better than the color explosions that happen all over the state as the flowers make their way back to full bloom. South Carolina is loaded with great places to get out and see this transformation. Here are some great hidden gardens in South Carolina to find that color that floats your boat and kickstarts the Spring/Summer season in the Palmetto State.

1. Riverbanks Zoo & Botanical Garden in Columbia

Go ahead and get tickets now for Rhythm & Blooms for an afterhours look at the gorgeous spring blooms at the Botanical Garden. It's on May 5, 2016 from 6p-9p. More info...

2. Hopelands Gardens in Aiken, SC

The City of Aiken kicks off their Summer Concert Series at Hopelands Gardens this Monday, May 2 and every Monday through the summer. The fun begins at 7pm, so grab your honey and head on over. More info...

3. Glencairn Gardens in Rock Hill

The 6th Annual Bloomfest takes place at Glencairn Gardens on Saturday, May 21, 2016. It's the perfect time to check out this great suburban garden and bring the family for all the fun this event has to offer. More info...

4. Magnolia Plantation in Charleston

Ok, so maybe Magnolia Plantation is too well-known to be considered "hidden" as our headline suggests. But did you know about the Audubon Swamp Garden (shown immediately above) at Magnolia Plantation? Take mom for the upcoming Mother's Day Stroll on Sunday May 8, 2016 and she'll get in free. Enjoy live music while you stroll through the 60 beautiful acres at Magnolia, including the Audubon Swamp. More info...

5. Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter

When the weather is this beautiful, there's no time like the present to visit Swan Lake - Iris Gardens. But if you did wait until say, Memorial Day Weekend you'd coincidentally get there during the 76th Annual Sumter Iris Festival. More info at the Iris Festival Facebook Page

6. Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve in Spartanburg

This free public garden is gearing up for a great big garden party Thursday, May 5th. Music, cocktails, dinner and an auction are on tap and there is a fee but it's for a good cause. If the garden party isn't your cup of tea, you can visit the gardens for free. More information about hours can be found here.

7. Edisto Memorial Gardens in Orangeburg

Never been to Edisto Memorial Gardens in Orangeburg? This is a great weekend to go. The Annual Festival of Roses is April 29-May 1, 2016. Go check it out. More info...

8. South Carolina Botanical Garden in Clemson

Every Thursday in May, from 7p-9p the garden is hosting an event called "Wine & Acoustics." Admission to the event is free and wine is $5 per glass. This could be a great way to see all this wonderful garden has to offer! More info...

9. Vereen Memorial Historic Gardens in Little River

This secret spot is actually part of the Horry County Parks and Rec. There's a great new trail opening on June 4th, but in the meantime if you decide to go you can expect to spot some great wild and plant life at Vereen. More info...

10. Kalmia Gardens in Hartsville

Kalmia Gardens is a part of Coker College in Hartsville. The Thomas Hart house, built in the 1800s, is a focal point of this property that used to be a plantation. More info...

11. Azalea Park and Sculpture Garden in Summerville

Visit the park at the center of the annual Flowertown Festival in Summerville. The festival has already passed this year, but you can still enjoy the flowers and sculptures in this beautiful urban garden.

12. Moore Farms Botanical Garden in Lake City

This hidden gem is near Lake City and offers 50 acres of great exploration. Stop if for a tour or roam freely. More info...

13. Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet

Brookgreen Gardens has prominent stature along South Carolina's coastal highway, Highway 17, so maybe it's not so "hidden." But did you know Brookgreen has a butterfly garden house that's full of these beautiful creatures? There are always ongoing events at Brookgreen. More info...

It's the perfect time of year to get out and explore this great state. Have you visited these gardens yet?