April is perfect time to make a stop by WRAL Azalea Gardens

The azaleas are in full bloom and the tulips are soaking in the sun, making it the perfect time for a family photo shoot.

Maggie Dauphinais and her grandson, Eric, paid a visit to the gardens to enjoy the sights, smells and sounds.

"It's a very relaxed atmosphere," she said. "You can walk, you can see the tulips, the azaleas. But it's not just azaleas, it is beautiful trees."

The gardens opened in 1959. It was a gift to the community from AJ Fletcher, the founder of WRAL's parent company, Capitol Broadcasting Company.

"It's beauty for beauty's sake, as Mr. Fletcher believed, and that's why he built it in the first place," said John Harris, the company historian.

Fletcher loved azaleas and the gardens was his way of sharing his passion with the public.

The azaleas are blooming now, but a team of staff makes sure the WRAL Azalea Gardens are beautiful year-round.

"If you want to come out and spend a morning or an afternoon in beauty, this is a good way to do it," Harris said.

Dauphinais said while it was her first time visiting, she will definitely be back.

"I love it," she said.