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The UFO House of Garden City: A Quirky Landmark with an Out-of-This-World History

a couple of lawn chairs sitting on top of a lush green field

Have you ever spotted a UFO in Garden City? If you’re driving south on Waccamaw Drive near The Gulfstream Café, you might just see one—but don’t panic! This UFO isn’t from outer space. It’s the famous “UFO House,” also known as “The Spaceship House,” “The Jetson’s House,” or “The Flying Saucer House.”

A Visionary Design Ahead of Its Time

Built in 1976, this one-of-a-kind structure was the brainchild of Miami-based architect Peter Vander Klout. His goal? To create a futuristic, hurricane-resistant home capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. The result was a home engineered to endure winds of up to 300 mph, a remarkable feat in coastal construction.

The Ultimate Test: Hurricane Hugo

When Hurricane Hugo struck the South Carolina coast in September 1989 as a powerful Category 4 storm, many homes in Garden City suffered severe damage. However, the UFO House remained standing, proving its innovative design was more than just visually unique—it was structurally superior.

A Rare Architectural Gem

While Vander Klout designed several similar homes in South Florida, most of them have since been demolished or left abandoned. That makes the Garden City UFO House a rare surviving example of this futuristic vision—an architectural relic that continues to capture curiosity nearly 50 years after its construction.

Visiting the UFO House

If you’re in the Murrells Inlet or Garden City area, take a drive down Waccamaw Drive to catch a glimpse of this fascinating landmark. Whether you’re a fan of unique architecture, local history, or just love uncovering hidden gems along the Grand Strand, the UFO House is worth the detour.

A Must-See Landmark Along the South Carolina Coast

Garden City is home to many attractions, but few are as intriguing as the UFO House. Its resilience, quirky design, and rare status make it a must-see for locals and visitors alike. Next time you’re in the area, look to the skies—or rather, to the right side of Waccamaw Drive—and spot this otherworldly home for yourself!

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