mansions to tour in south carolina

Visit These 9 Historic Plantations In South Carolina For An Unforgettable Experience

Robin Jarvis

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From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, South Carolina has several historic plantations that are open for tours. You may recognize a few of these and others may be newly added to your radar. Each wonderful property has major history behind it, as well as just being beautiful and interesting to visit. Tour all of these historic plantations in South Carolina for unforgettable experiences.

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South Carolinians have done a wonderful job of preserving so much of the plantation history in the Palmetto State. Visit any one, or ALL, of these historic plantations for an experience you’ll never forget.

Have you toured any of these yet? And which is your favorite? We’d love to know in our comments.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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10 Most Beautiful Historic Southern Plantation Homes You Can Visit

Southern charm: 10 of the most historical southern plantation homes.

With their historic architecture and stunning gardens, historical Southern plantation homes are full of old-world charm and beauty. More importantly, they have rich stories to tell because they played significant roles in our nation’s history.  If experiencing the storied history and architectural beauty of a southern plantation home is in your future, then these charming historical Southern plantations should not be missed:

Pebble Hill Plantation

Located in Thomasville, Georgia, this antebellum plantation and museum was first established when Thomas Jefferson Johnson purchased the land in 1825. Johnson first raised cotton and then introduced rice, a profitable crop in Georgia during the 19th century.

After Johnson’s death, the plantation was inherited by his daughter, Julia Ann. In 1850, a lovely plantation home was built upon the property by English architect John Wind.

Julia and her husband struggled with the property during Reconstruction in the South, and the property was purchased by Thomas Melville Hanna in 1896. After his death, Pebble Hill passed to his daughter, Kate, who turned it into a hunting estate, which were popular during the mid-1880s.

Kate’s daughter, Elisabeth, inherited the plantation after her mother’s death in 1936 and decided to turn the plantation into a museum for all to enjoy. Today, the grounds are well-maintained and feature beautiful gardens that are worth exploring.

Evergreen Plantation

If Evergreen Plantation seems familiar, you might have seen it featured in Quentin Tarantino’s 2012 film, “Django Unchained” . The stunning Greek Revival style building and plantation grounds were used as a backdrop to shoot some of the film’s scenes.

Located in Edgar, Louisiana, just outside New Orleans, the plantation is considered the most intact plantation in the South and still produces sugar cane to this day. As you explore the grounds, be sure to check out the 22 intact slave cabins, which are arranged in a double row along its oak alley.

Whitney Plantation

Whitney Plantation, located in Wallace, Louisiana, was also featured in “Django Unchained” — but this isn’t your typical historical Southern plantation. In 2014, the 2,000-acre property was converted into the first slavery museum in America.

Unlike other plantations, Whitney Plantation doesn’t sugarcoat the lives of enslaved Africans who worked the former indigo and sugar farm. Jim Cummings, the owner of Whitney Plantation, has spent millions on the museum’s artifacts and restoration to give visitors a true sense of life in the antebellum South.

Shirley Plantation

Dating back to 1614, Shirley Plantation is the oldest plantation in America . Located in Charles City County, Virginia, the plantation once produced tobacco that was sent around the colonies and shipped to England.

Although the land was originally settled in 1613, a portion of the land was granted to Edward Hill in 1638. Anne Hill Carter, who was born on the plantation, was the mother of Confederate General Robert E. Lee.

In fact, Hill’s direct descendants continue to own and operate the plantation to this day, making it the oldest family-owned business in North America.

Nottoway Plantation

Nottoway Plantation in White Castle, Louisiana, is home to the South’s largest antebellum mansion. The ornate, Greek and Italianate style mansion is bursting with opulence and demonstrates the vast wealth of prestigious sugarcane planter John Hampden Randolph.

Built in 1859, the jaw-dropping mansion has three floors and a total of 64 rooms, 165 doors, 12 hand-carved Italian marble fireplaces and 200 windows. The spectacular home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is now a resort destination.

Belle Meade Plantation

Located in Belle Meade, Tennessee, the Belle Meade Plantation is a beautiful Greek Revival mansion that now operates as a museum. The land was originally purchased by John Harding in 1806 and used to produce cotton.

Harding quickly became one of the largest slave holders in the Nashville area. With his new fortune, he built a brick house on a small hill, which he called “Belle Meadow.”

What started as a 250-acre property would become a 5,300-acre farm that raised thoroughbred horses. The farm survived the Civil War and was passed down through generations of the Harding family until they ran into serious debt in 1893. The plantation was sold in 1906 and was converted into an educational non-profit organization in 1953.

Magnolia Plantation

Founded in 1676 by Thomas Drayton, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is renowned for its beautiful gardens and rich history. Located along the banks of the Ashley River near Historic Charleston, S.C., the 464-acre property has survived natural disasters, as well as both the American Revolution and Civil War.

There is much to see and do at Magnolia, so be sure to carve out a couple hours to walk through all the gardens, take a tour of the magnificent plantation home and let the kids enjoy the petting zoo.

If you’re visiting the wonderful city of Charleston, you can’t miss Boone Hall. Located across the Cooper River in Mount Pleasant, S.C., Boone Hall is America’s oldest working plantation and the most photographed in the country.

People from across the world come to Boone Hall to see its famous Avenue of Oaks, explore the working plantation and Georgian-style home and experience the only live presentation of Gullah culture at The Gullah Theater. Educational and awe-inspiring, it’s easy to see why this historical Southern plantation draws thousands of visitors each year.

Destrehan Plantation

Established in 1787, Destrehan Plantation was originally a thriving indigo plantation and sugarcane farm. Situated 25 miles from New Orleans, this antebellum mansion is noted for its French Colonial style architecture, which was later modified with Greek Revival style elements.

Destrehan Plantation has a fascinating history that starts with the plantation’s second owner, Jean-Noel Destrehan, who was deeply involved in the state’s politics, serving on the Orleans Territorial Council and as a U.S. senator until he resigned after a month.

Destrehan paved the way for the Creole system of slave labor, in which head slaves were appointed to oversee tasks on sugarcane plantations. Although the history is dark, the plantation’s costumed historical interpreters do an excellent job of telling the rich stories of the Destrehan family and the slaves who worked there.

Belle Grove Plantation

A trip to Belle Grove Plantation gives visitors the opportunity to venture into the past and see what life was like for early settlers in Shenandoah Valley. Located near Middletown, Virginia, the 1797 antebellum plantation is still farmed today and features a large limestone manor house in Federal style architecture.

The impressive manor was built by Major Isaac Hite and his wife, Nelly Madison Hite, the sister of President James Madison. The home was originally named after Nelly’s grandmother’s home in Port Conway, Virginia, which is the site where James Madison was born.

Now a historic house museum, visitors can tour the large manor, an 1815 icehouse and smokehouse, a slave cemetery and a heritage apple orchard — all set against a stunning mountain backdrop.

Full of History and Charm

Before the outbreak of the Civil War, there were more than 500,000 plantations and farms in the South. Although many did not survive reconstruction, those Southern plantation homes that have remained well-preserved now offer an invaluable glimpse into our country’s storied past.

*************************************** About The Author:    Traci Magnus was raised on the Charleston Coast and attended the College of Charleston before moving to New York City in the mid 1990s. Her first job in the Big Apple was with the renowned NYC real estate brokerage Douglas Elliman. For the next decade, she honed her marketing skills at some of Madison Avenue’s top advertising agencies. In 2006, she returned to Charleston along with her husband Glenn and their son Max. She joined the  Dunes Properties  team in early 2008 as Director of Marketing. ***************************************

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Tour of Historic Plantations & Homes

By prince george winyah church women.

For over 75 years, the Prince George Winyah Church Women have hosted the Tour of Historic Plantations and Homes each spring. In this self-guided tour, visitors have a unique opportunity to tour select historic plantations, town homes, and gardens located in and around Georgetown County, South Carolina. Tickets are required, and we recommend you purchase them in advance. All money raised by the Tour is allocated to community outreach and the preservation of our historic church buildings. The success of the Tour has made a difference in the lives of the poor, the friendless, and the needy in our community, which continues to be our prayerful aim in this endeavor.

Save the Date

March 28-29, 20 25, georgetown, south carolina.

“Phenomenal! The sheer number and variety of homes and plantations we visit is incredible, but it is the irresistible southern hospitality of this community that has me hooked."

Plan Your Tour

While the tour of homes is the main event, we offer several other tour features to enhance your time on tour. 

Founded in 1729, Georgetown, South Carolina, is located in the heart of the South Carolina lowcountry. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the region became home to many indigo and rice planters who once exported so much rice that Georgetown County was once the wealthiest county in the United States. Though indigo and rice are no longer major exports for the region, many of the plantations, town houses, and gardens left by the planters remain and have been preserved by Georgetown's present-day residents. The Tour of Historic Homes and Plantations is self-guided and gives tour-goers a unique opportunity to tour properties, many of which are generally closed to the public, at their own leisure.

300 Broad Street, Georgetown, SC 29440

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10 Best Historic House Tours in Charleston

By Allston McCrady

Charleston's history is central to its experience, and the city's Historic Charleston Foundation, along with several other organizations, maintain several historic homes and properties that will give you a deep dive into the area's background. Here, our list of some of the most informative, professional, and enriching ones to check out.

Joseph Manigault House Arrow

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Arrow

Heyward-Washington House Arrow

Nathaniel Russell House Arrow

Jessica Chapel

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

McLeod Plantation Historic Site Arrow

Aiken-Rhett House Arrow

Philip Simmons Foundation Arrow

This is certainly an unusual house museum in Charleston, but it is one absolutely worth visiting. Not only does it provide a pleasing contrast to the grand residences South of Broad, it also tells the story of those whose skills and determination formed the backbone of Charleston’s built environment.

Edmondston-Alston House Arrow

Drayton Hall Arrow

Middleton Place Arrow

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Notice: The Robert Mills House (Henderson Street) gravel parking lot will be unavailable on Sunday, June 9. Please utilize street parking when visiting. 

Historic Columbia

Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens

Built in 1818, the Hampton-Preston Mansion has long been associated with the elite antebellum families who are its namesakes. Today, visitors learn about the experiences of all the people who lived and worked at this site during its 200-year history.

Times & Tickets

Tours of the Hampton-Preston Mansion are available:  Wednesday – Saturday at 12 p.m. and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. 

Tickets may be purchased in advance online up until midnight the day prior to the tour, OR tickets may be purchased the day of the tour at the Robert Mills Gift Shop.  All tours begin at the Robert Mills Gift Shop , 1616 Blanding Street; please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Tours are guided and last approximately 60 minutes.

1615 Blanding Street  Columbia, SC 29201 

All tours begin at the Gift Shop at Robert Mills . 

The Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion provide a picturesque setting for your special event! 

Venue Pictures and Details

The Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion are open to the public and were recently renovated in 2018. Our horticulture experts have cataloged every plant on our six historic properties— view the garden database .

Garden Hours  10 a.m. –  4 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday | 1 – 4 p.m. Sunday 

Wealthy Columbia merchant Ainsley Hall and his wife, Sarah, had this mansion built in 1818. They lived here briefly, until 1823, when Ainsley sold it to Wade Hampton I, who was known as one of the South's richest planters and at one time its largest enslaver. For the next 50 years, the estate grew to be Columbia's grandest residence under his wife, Mary Cantey Hampton, and daughter, Caroline Hampton Preston. Preston’s husband, John Smith Preston, oversaw an expansion of the mansion that doubled its size. The family’s vast material wealth was directly tied to their enslavement of hundreds of adults and children in both Louisiana and South Carolina.      In the 100 years following the Civil War, the mansion and its famed gardens passed through several owners, including the Presbyterian College for Women, Chicora College, and the proprietors of the Hampton-Preston Tourist Home. After an extensive rehabilitation that included the demolition of the antebellum addition, the property opened to the public in 1970 as the Midlands Tricentennial Exposition Center. To commemorate the 200th anniversary in 2018, Historic Columbia updated the property , with new exhibits, hands-on interactive elements, expanded public gardens, and a new exterior paint scheme. garden

The gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion have undergone numerous enhancements and expansions over the last decade, culminating in the recently completed Boyd Horticultural Center in 2022. Modeled after the Italianate estate gardens that the Hampton and Preston families frequented on their travels, the modern re-installation of the gardens is now beginning to capture the intimate and exotic feel of the antebellum landscape. 

The Hampton and Preston families ensured that the four-acre grounds around the mansion signaled their extensive wealth and influence. Enslaved workers transformed the landscape into regionally acclaimed gardens that contained a remarkable collection of native varieties and plants from around the world.  With the generous support of the Susan and Darnall Boyd Foundation Historic Columbia  has re-established the sprawling gardens based on extensive historic documentation. Themed gardens on the grounds include the Henry Michael Powell Children’s Garden, the Hiram Powers Fountain Garden, the East and West Arboretums, and finally the Boyd Horticultural Center. Completed in winter 2022, the Boyd Horticultural Center is anchored by a historically informed multi-use glasshouse, which serves several roles including the center of Historic Columbia’s horticultural operations, an interpretive greenhouse, and a space for educational, programmatic, and rental activities.    Our horticulture experts have cataloged every plant on our six historic properties— view the garden database .

Photo Gallery

Boyd Foundation Horticultural Center

Historic Columbia's hub for horticultural research and propagation

The new Boyd Foundation Horticultural Center , a state-of-the-art greenhouse located on the northwest section of the Hampton-Preston Mansion grounds, completes a decades-long vision to transform the property into a hub for horticultural research, propagation, interpretation and programming. This facility provides the organization an enhanced capacity to care for the 14 acres of grounds and gardens under its care, while interpreting the role that talented gardeners, horticulturists and garden enthusiasts—Black, white, enslaved and free—have played in shaping the capital city, which historically was (and increasingly continues to be) acknowledged for its physical beauty throughout the seasons. The greenhouse, gatehouse, and past improvements to the property and gardens have been made possible through the generosity of the Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Foundation .

Photos Courtesy of Cohn Corporation by Todd Lista with Park Avenue Photography

494 Hopsewee Rd., Georgetown, SC 29440 | Phone: (843) 546-7891

Call to book • Book online • Email us • Get directions

Join us TUESDAY, Jan. 16 AS WE REOPEN FOR the 2024 Season!

Photo by Alan Sherlock

Experience Southern History at Hopsewee Plantation

Built circa 1740, some 40 years before the American Revolutionary War, Hopsewee Plantation was one of the South’s major rice plantations and the birthplace of Thomas Lynch, Jr., one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Now privately owned, this National Historic Landmark—midway between Myrtle Beach and Charleston in the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry—reopens to the public for the 2024 season Tuesday, Jan. 16 until mid-December. We close for weddings and special events , so please check our calendar when booking for availability.

book online

CAll to book

Take two popular tours together and save with our new package deal!

Brand new hopsewee house tour and gullah geechee presentation package deal 1 hour 45 minutes; tues–sat at 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 1:15 pm &  2:15 pm.

Historic House Tour Explore the home from room to room, including the two original slave cabins that still stand on the grounds. Learn about the rich history of Hopsewee, its previous families as well as its current owners, the Beatties, and the enslaved who lived and worked on the plantation.

Gullah Geechee Presentation Join us as we expand the narrative about the experience of the enslaved West Africans on this historic plantation to include their contributions to the wealth and influence of colonial South Carolina through their knowledge, ingenuity, and labor that helped build our nation.

Buy tickets online or call (843) 546-7891 . Please contact us for groups of 10 or more.

Hopsewee Historic Landmark House Tour 50 minutes; Tues.–Sat., 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, 2 pm, & 3 pm

Explore the home from room to room, including the two original slave cabins that still stand on the grounds. Learn about the rich history of Hopsewee, its previous families as well as its current owners, the Beatties, and the enslaved who lived and worked on the plantation. During your visit, make sure to enjoy the mossy oaks and river vista. Afterwards, enjoy lunch or tea at our River Oak Cottage , ranked as one of the state's top tea rooms. Buy tickets online or call (843) 546-7891 . Please contact us for groups of 10 or more.

NEW ! Hopsewee Historical Museum Self-guided; Tues.–Sat., 10 am-4 pm

Learn about the enslaved individuals who lived here as we present some of Hopsewee’s missing history through archaeological investigation and research. What we have learned is presented here so that all may have a better understanding of what life was like for those who were forcefully brought here, who were born here, who lived, loved, labored and died here and even, perhaps, sometimes laughed here. Click to learn more or make a reservation .

BOOK ONLINE

Gullah Geechee presentation 30 minutes; Tues.–Sat., 11:15 am, 12:15 pm, 1:15 pm, & 2:15 pm Takes place in our Slave Cabin Dwelling

Join historians Vennie Deas Moore as we expand the narrative about the experience of the enslaved West Africans on this historic plantation to include their contributions to the wealth and influence of colonial South Carolina and how their knowledge, ingenuity, and labor help to build this nation.

Folklorist and cultural preservationist Deas Moore is the 2020 winner of South Carolina’s 2020 Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Award recognizing the work of those in the state keeping traditional arts alive. Her presentation focuses on the experience of the West African enslaved rice growers in the plantation’s fields.

Sweetgrass Basketweaving CLASS

3 hours; Thursdays at 1:00 pm

Sweetgrass baskets are a Lowcountry tradition dating back to the 1700s, when they were brought to the United States by West African slaves. Handmade of tightly coiled strands of bundled grass, these strong yet supple baskets played an important role on southern rice plantations and today are treasured for their artistry and cultural significance.

Discover more about sweetgrass baskets and learn this unique craft in a hands-on class with instructor Vera Manigault . An eighth-generation weaver and Gullah descendant, Manigault is from Mount Pleasant, SC, one of the main areas where baskets are still made, and has been featured in national magazines and on television shows. Read more about her in an article about this important art form .

Hopsewee Ghost Tours

50 minutes; Wednesdays at 5:00 pm

Go back in time and experience Haunted Tales at Hopsewee Plantation, presenting stories of author and storyteller Elizabeth Robertson Huntsinger . She’s given hundreds of programs on the history and ghostly legends of Georgetown County as a Historical Interpreter for over 25 years. She has several books to date as author of Ghosts of Georgetown , More Ghosts of Georgetown , and Georgetown Mysteries and Legends , which you can buy in our gift shop or in our online shop .

Arrive a little earlier for Wine by the River Wednesdays ! Enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres as you browse the Hopsewee gift shop and get your book purchases signed by the authors.

Art of Indigo Dyeing Workshop 2.5 hours; Thursdays and Saturdays at 11:00 am

Experience the magic of creating with all-natural indigo! Learn more about this important part of Lowcountry culture and history, right here at the Hopsewee, built by indigo baron and Winyah Indigo Society’s first president Thomas Lynch, Sr.

Rice was the second major crop at Hopsewee. Indigo was the first cash crop for the plantation, the dye from which was used to color the uniforms of English soldiers. All-natural indigo dyeing basics are covered as you create a bandanna, a tea towel and a tote to take home.

Eat and Drink

English tradition meets southern charm at the  River Oak Cottage Tea Room , with a full menu of Lowcountry favorites, sweet and savory treats and a variety of teas. Reservations recommended.

Plan an Event

With beautiful and bucolic wooded grounds along the peaceful North Santee River, historic Hopsewee provides the picture-perfect backdrop for private parties or your special bridal occasion .

#1 of 51 Things to Do i n Georgetown, SC

According to TripAdvisor Travelers as of November 2023

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Drayton Hall Preservation Trust fosters a deeper understanding of colonial America and the evolution of life in the South by discovering, researching, conserving, and interpreting the history, context, and culture of Drayton Hall. Learn More

Explore The Estate

Drayton Hall’s preservation philosophy was groundbreaking for its time and is unique among historic sites today.

Drayton Hall is one of the most remarkable houses in North America; in fact, it is the earliest and finest example of Palladian architecture in the United States.

The long-admired landscape of Drayton Hall shows how influences of the past have sculpted the features of the present.

Thanks to multidisciplinary research, we can understand how Drayton Hall’s creators and inhabitants lived their lives and shaped the Atlantic World.

Drayton Hall’s collections include fine arts and historical artifacts that tell the site’s story from its prehistory to the present.

Collections

Rare 18th-century objects.

(843) 769-2600 info@draytonhall.org

3380 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414

Drayton Hall's main house and landscape are open to the public daily from 9 am to 5:00pm* (gate closes at 3:30 pm). The gate will accept no cash transactions.

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16 Best South Carolina Plantations & Historic Houses

Last Updated By VI on February 1, 2024

Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

Charleston tea garden, drayton hall.

• Complete List & Map

SC Highway 88, 3 miles east of downtown Pendleton, Pendleton, SC 29630, Phone: 864-646-3782

1235 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, Phone: 843-884-4371

6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, Phone: 843-559-0383

3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414-7126, Phone: 843-769-2600

Frampton Plantation House

1 Low Country Ln, Yemassee , SC 29945, Phone: 843-717-3090

Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

1950 Rutledge Rd, McClellanville, SC 29458, Phone: 843-546-9361 , ( website link )

Hopsewee Plantation

494 Hopsewee Rd, Georgetown, SC 29440-5598, Phone: 843-546-7891

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, Phone: 843-571-1266

Mansfield Plantation Bed & Breakfast

1776 Mansfield Rd, Georgetown, SC 29440, Phone: 843-546-6961

McLeod Plantation Historic Site

325 Country Club Dr, Charleston, SC 29412-2215, Phone: 843-762-9514 , ( website link )

Middleton Place

4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414-7206, Phone: 843-556-6020

Millford Historic Site

7320 Milford Plantation Rd, Pinewood, SC 29125, Phone: 803-452-5282

Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site

181 Redcliffe Rd, Beech Island, SC 29842-9535, Phone: 803-827-1473

Robert W. Roper House

9 E Battery St; Charleston, South Carolina 29401, Phone: 843-225-0111

Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site

2677 Sardis Rd, Union, SC 29379-7904, Phone: 864-427-5966

Woodburn Historic House

130 History Ln, Pendleton, SC 29670-8700, Phone: 864-646-7249

• 1. Ashtabula
• 2. Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
• 3. Charleston Tea Garden
• 4. Drayton Hall
• 5. Frampton Plantation House
• 6. Hampton Plantation State Historic Site
• 7. Hopsewee Plantation
• 8. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
• 9. Mansfield Plantation Bed & Breakfast
• 10. McLeod Plantation Historic Site
• 11. Middleton Place
• 12. Millford Historic Site
• 13. Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site
• 14. Robert W. Roper House
• 15. Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site
• 16. Woodburn Historic House

More South Carolina Getaways:

Resources: South Carolina Tourism , National Parks , State Parks

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25 Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC

16 Best Things to Do in Clemson, SC

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What are the best Charleston House Tours?

Where are the best Charleston homes to tour?  While perusing the streets of downtown and exploring the Holy City, make sure these Charleston historic house tours are on your must-do list. 

Charleston’s rich architectural history dates back to the 17th century. The Old Exchange Building represents the early, Colonial style. The Georgian period is characterized by symmetrical facades with a centered front entrance and 5 windows facing frontward. The Heyward Washington House is a great example. Beginning in the late 1700s this style gained in popularity and may be seen in many residences.  The Federalist period followed the Revolutionary war. Home designs incorporated lavish elements such as balconies, shutters, and palladium windows. The Rhett-Aiken House is a noted example of the Federalist architectural period.  As Charlestonians gained wealth they embraced the NeoClassical architectural style and constructed homes of considerable grandeur. This design period gained popularity in the years leading up to the Civil War. Neoclassical architecture is characterized by columns, smooth walls, and arched windows. The Charleston County Courthouse at the “Four Corners of Law” offers a good example of the Neoclassical architectural style in Charleston, South Carolina. 

Gothic Revival, Italianate, Victorian, and Art Deco periods followed. Few cities in the United States are as diversely represented in architectural styles as Charleston, SC. These multiple examples of design are a significant contributor to the rich historical tapestry of the city’s character and charm.

Step back in time, and plan a day to enjoy Charleston historic house tours. See our list of locally recommended Charleston Historic Home Tours below!

The Best Historic Home Tours in Charleston, SC

1. heyward-washington house.

Begin your tour at the infamous Heyward-Washington House . This Georgian-style double home offers the only glimpse at a kitchen building of this period. The home was constructed in 1772. This historically significant dwelling was the home of Thomas Heyward, Jr., one of the four South Carolina signers of the Declaration of Independence. 

George Washington was a guest here during a visit to Charleston in 1791. This home served as the first home in the city to become a museum. The Heyward-Washington garden is a hidden gem behind the enclosed, brick walls.

Meticulously maintained, the garden is an excellent representation of 18th gardening in Charleston. 

• Tours of the Heyward Washington House are available daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Sunday tours are afternoon only, from noon to 5 pm

2. Nathaniel Russell House

The Nathaniel Russell House , a national historic landmark in Charleston, SC is considered one of America’s most important dwellings.

It incorporates elements of Georgian and Neoclassical design.

Wealthy Charleston merchant Nathaniel Russell built the home for his family in 1808. The three story cantilevered staircase is a stunning centerpiece in this exceptional residence on the High Battery in Charleston.   

• Tours of the Nathaniel Russel House, an elite 19th-century home are available daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

3. Aiken-Rhett House

After your visit at the Nathaniel Russell House, you must also visit the Aiken-Rhett House . This complex offers an important, and educational perspective of life in the 1800s.

The back buildings, where slaves lived, offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn of the conditions and life endured by enslaved African peoples. This antebellum home was once owned by the powerful and wealthy Governor William Aiken.

T oday, the Aiken-Rhett House is one of the best-preserved townhouse complexes in the United States. 

• Tours are available daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. If you would like to save money on house tours at Nathaniel Russell and Aiken-Rhett, buy a combination ticket .

4. Edmondston-Alston House

When visitors think of Charleston, homes on the High Battery evoke an iconic image. The Edmondston-Alston house’s waterfront location commands stunning views of Charleston Harbor.

The Edmondston-Alston House has survived hurricanes, the earthquake of 1888 and the Civil War.

Add this one for a perfect waterside museum tour. Many period pieces of furniture, artwork, and silver are original to the owners of this historic residence.

• Tours are limited so plan in advance.
• Monday's from 1 pm - 4 pm
• Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm

5. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

No list of Charleston house tours is complete without Magnolia Plantation and Gardens . Recently, Travel + Leisure named Magnolia one of America’s most beautiful gardens.

The plantation was founded in 1676 by the Drayton family and is the oldest public garden in America.

Not only can you tour the gardens, but you can also tour the Plantation House where the Drayton family once lived. 

• Tours of Magnolia's Plantation House run daily from 10 am - 3:30 pm

Mansions in Charleston, SC

6. joseph manigault house.

The Manigaults became one of South Carolina’s leading families, working as rice planters and merchants in the 18th Century after fleeing religious persecution in Europe in the 1600’s.

Constructed in 1803, the Joseph Manigault House represents the urban lifestyle of a wealthy Southern rice plantation family.

This brick antebellum residence was designed by the Scottish, Neoclassical architect Robert Adam.

The exterior features a two story porch, elaborate windows and exterior doors. Inside, the interior is crafted in rich woodwork details as seen in the fireplace mantels, cornices, and doors. You’ll find period pieces and furniture from France, Europe and America as well as original color schemes throughout the rooms.  

The Joseph Manigault House, also referred to as Charleston’s Huguenot House was threatened with demolition, but a group of caring Charlestonians organized to save the home. It was purchased by the Charleston Museum in 1933 for purposes of preservation. 

This was the birth of the Preservation Society of Charleston . 

• Tours begin daily at 10:00 am. 
• If you’re looking to tour The Charleston Museum, The Heyward Washington House and the Joesph Manigault House, buy the 3 site ticket . The more you see, the more you save!

7. Calhoun Mansion

Calhoun Mansion is one of Charleston’s most unique house tours. As you wander the halls and rooms of this 19th-century home, you will discover historic art collections, antiques, furniture, and more.  

Not only is the mansion stunning, but the relics inside of it give visitors a glimpse into the lives of the people of Old Charleston. 

• All Tours of the Calhoun Mansion are currently cancelled during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
• When the Calhoun Mansion resumes we’ll update tour offerings and times here. 

Interesting Facts About Charleston History

Charleston's history is riddled with important political figures, unique heritage, devastating fires, and costly wars. Throughout the course of American history, Charleston has played a vital role in our country’s development.

Here are just a few Charleston history facts you’ll learn on a vacation to the area:

• The first theater in America, the Dock Street Theater, was built in colonial Charleston in 1736. It is located on iconic Church Street, Charleston SC.
• America’s first museum is The Charleston Museum, founded in 1773.
• Four Charleston natives – Thomas Heyward Jr., Thomas Lynch Jr., Arthur Middleton, and Edward Rutledge, signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Take a tour around the city and you’ll recognize these old Charleston family names!
• Charleston was the site of the Battle of Fort Sullivan, the first decisive victory in the Revolutionary War
• The first game of golf played in America was in Charleston in 1788
• The Ordinance of Secession, which led to the Civil War, was signed in Charleston in 1860.
• The first shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor in 1861

How to Learn More about Charleston History

With so many great ways to learn about the Holy City, there is something for everyone in Charleston. You’ll find a wide variety of historic places to visit and educational things to do. Here are just a few recommendations:

Take A Charleston Sightseeing Tour

Charleston sightseeing tours are an easy and fun way to learn about Charleston from an expert. Many of the area’s local guides are Charlestonians with ties to the city that go back 5, 8, or even 10 generations! Others are historians who have developed an extensive knowledge of the Lowcountry through years and years of study. Whether you take a guided walking tour, fun boating excursion, classic carriage ride, or unique and spooky ghost tour, these options provide education and excitement all in one.

Visit a Historic Site or Museum

Another great way to learn about Charleston is by visiting a historic site or museum. The Charleston Museum, America’s first museum, is a great place to start. Then, head to any of these other  great museums in downtown Charleston :

• The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
• The Gibbes Museum of Art
• Old Slave Mart Museum
• Postal Museum
• Karpeles Manuscript Museum
• The North Charleston and American LaFrance Fire Museum and Education Center

In addition, Charleston has a wide variety of important forts and military sites, original historic homes, and century-old buildings to explore. Whether you take a ferry onto the Charleston Harbor, or you wander Charleston’s old, cobbled streets, you can visit these educational sites near downtown Charleston:

• Historic Charleston City Market
• Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
• Fort Sumter or Fort Moultrie

If you are looking for fun ways to explore the Charleston peninsula, read our blog on the city’s best walking tours !  If your dreams include owning a piece of Charleston history, contact Pam Harrington Exclusives for a current list of historic Charleston homes for sale.

Historic Homes in Charleston, SC for Sale

Owning a historic home in Charleston offers a unique opportunity to be a part of America’s history. You are helping to continue and preserve the historical charm of Charleston.

Pam Harrington Exclusives is a leader in Charleston real estate , serving historic Charleston and the islands for over 45 years.

When it comes to buying a historic home in Charleston, it is vital to work with a realtor who understands the nuances of historic home ownership from the Charleston BAR building restrictions, to historic tax credits, and other specialty considerations.

When you are ready to become a part of our history, we are here to assist you.

Meet Our Sales Team

Charleston Real Estate

Historic City Tour & Southern Mansion Combo

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 hours
• Map Marker Departure Location: 375 Meeting St, Charleston, SC

Checkmark Easy Cancellations!

Charleston Mansion & City Tour

Take a journey through Charleston’s 300 years of living history with our licensed tour guides. Experience the Old Market area and the historic homes and churches where generations of Charlestonians worked, lived, and worshiped.

Step out of the air-conditioned minibus onto the famous Battery Seawall. See and hear about Fort Sumter, the Harbor of History, and the Aircraft Carrier Yorktown at Patriots Point.

PLUS enjoy a tour through the elegant interior of a fully-restored historic home – the Joseph Manigault House. Come and enjoy the beauty and hospitality of one of America’s most historic cities.

Your Ticket Includes

• 90-minute guided tour of historic Charleston
• Tour of the fully restored historic home
• Charleston’s Historic Home
• The Battery Sea Wall
• Historic Churches
• Old Market Area
• The Four Corners of Law
• Rainbow Row
• Tour a Restored Historic Home (Joseph Manigault House)

Please Note

• Please confirm date and times before submitting reservation.
• Please note that booking times are exact and not an arrival window.
• Changes may be made on a space-available basis.
• Departs from the Visitors Center at 375 Meeting Street starting at 10:00 a.m. with the final departure of the day at 3:00 p.m.
• Must cancel scheduled tour 24 hours prior to tour departure time in order to receive a full refund.
• Please note the City of Charleston does not allow hop-on-hop-off services.
• House & buses are not handicap-accessible.
• Please note there are no restrooms available on the house tour.
• We are committed to responsible tourism and traveler safety.
• No concealed weapons allowed on any bus or van.

Related Sightseeing Tours

• Most Popular!
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Historic City Tour

Enjoy your tour through the beautiful city of Charleston and discover over 300 years of history in the streets of this must-visit location on a Gray Line bus tour.

Historic City Tour & Charleston Museum

Enjoy your tour of Charleston as your guide points out important sights, and visit the Charleston Museum to learn all about the South Carolina Lowcountry and natural history.

• Hour Glass 5 hours

Historic City Tour and Fort Sumter Tour

Tour Fort Sumter, “where the Civil War began,” plus visit historic areas around Charleston on this combo bus tour. Points of interest include Battery Seawall & more.

The Mansion

When you tour the Burt-Stark Mansion, you step into an era gone by. As you walk into this historic home, you feel the Old South and experience the emotion of the War Between the States. You feel the power of the meeting room where Jefferson Davis changed history.

Experience the Nature of the Old South

It has been said that the works of nature speak without words. The historic grounds of the Burt-Stark Mansion have much to say about life as it happened 100 years ago. The hands-on communing with nature will allow you to touch and feel the trees, shrubs and flowers that give the South the aura of gracious outdoor living. The tour is a must for garden clubs and garden lovers. It also includes the complete guided tour of the mansion.

Antiques, Furniture and Artifacts

Take a close look at the furniture and decorative items displayed in the mansion. Learn the specific history, style, and colorful anecdotes of the period of the War Between the States. The lovely fine china, porcelain and silver will make you experience the charm and splendor of yesteryear’s Southern style.

The Kitchen of the 1830s

Learn about primitive cooking and the implements that make it possible. You’ll grow in your understanding of why Southern cooks and their recipes continue to be held in such high esteem.

Regular Tour Schedule

Friday, 1:30pm – 4:30pm Saturday, 1:30pm – 4:30pm

Before visiting the Burt-Stark Mansion, please check our voicemail at (864) 366-0166 for any weekly changes to this schedule.

Thank you for your interest in the Burt-Stark Mansion and we look forward to your visit soon!

Individual Tours

Individual tours $10 per person, group tours, groups of 10 or more $8 per person, school groups.

We make special arrangements for school groups. Contact us online or by calling (864) 366-0166 if you are a teacher or school administrator and would like to plan an educational tour for your students.

The only way to experience the Burt-Stark Mansion is to visit and take it in for yourself. Contact us online  or call (864) 366-0166 to book your tour today!

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This Is My South

A travel guide to the Southern USA

6 Historic Homes in Charleston You Can Actually Visit

January 3, 2020 By Caroline Eubanks Leave a Comment

Many visitors to Charleston come to see the historic buildings that date back to the early days of the city’s founding. While the plantations along the Ashley River are popular, you can also get a look inside some of the lavish homes downtown.

While many are private residences, some are now house museums in Charleston, run by the Charleston Museum, Historic Charleston Foundation, or through independent trusts. Others are open during the seasonal tours of homes . Add these Charleston house museums to your next trip itinerary.

A Note On Plantations:  These homes have a dark history that shouldn’t be ignored. Only you can decide whether this is something you’re interested in doing. Read  this post  for more perspectives on both sides of the debate.

This post contains affiliate links.

Charleston House Tours and Tickets

Each of these homes has its own ticketing process, but you can also purchase combination tickets. For example, the Heyward-Washington and Joseph Manigault houses have combined tickets with the Charleston Museum .

You can also get entry during promotions for Charleston’s Museum Mile like Mile Month. The TourPass Charleston also provides entry into many of these homes at one price. And tours like Charleston’s Alleys and Hidden Passages give a glimpse into the streets behind the famous mansions.

Historic Charleston House Museums

Aiken-rhett house.

The Aiken-Rhett House was built in 1820 in what is now the Mazyck-Wraggborough neighborhood of Charleston for merchant John Robinson.

It was later acquired by William Aiken Sr., a railroad magnate, who passed it on to his son William Aiken, Jr., who was later the South Carolina governor.

Aiken Jr. and his wife expanded the home in the 1830s and it continued to pass down through his family for over 140 years. Around 1975, it was sold to the Charleston Museum and it subsequently opened as a museum. The Historic Charleston Foundation now oversees it.

The Aikens owned slaves and their stories are told on the tours. Among the outbuildings are a kitchen, the original slave quarters, and a carriage block. A number of the original furnishings also survive.

Tickets are $12 for adults and can be purchased in combination with tickets to the Nathaniel Russell House. Tours are self-guided and offered daily from 10 am to 5 pm. The Aiken-Rhett House is located at 48 Elizabeth Street, a short walk from the visitor’s center.

Calhoun Mansion

The Calhoun Mansion was built in 1873 for businessman George W. Williams in the Victorian style. It was constructed with over 30 rooms and a large ballroom.

After Williams’ death, it was inherited by his son-in-law Patrick Calhoun, the grandson of statesman John C. Calhoun. In 1914, it operated as a hotel and in 1932, portions of the property were subdivided. In 1976, it was purchased and restored.

In 2004, it began operating as a museum. It’s also been used in films like North and South and The Notebook . It is decorated in the Gilded Age style and contains artifacts from the period.

Tickets are $17 for adults while children under 11 are free. Tours are held from 11 am to 5 pm every half hour, lasting around 30 minutes. The Calhoun Mansion is located at 16 Meeting Street near The Battery.

Visit the home on the High Society of Charleston tour , which ends at the Calhoun Mansion.

Edmonston-Alston House

The Edmonston-Alston House was built in 1825 for Scottish immigrant Charles Edmondston on the ruins of a fort alongside a sea wall. The modified single house was purchased by rice planter Charles Alston in 1838 and the third story was added.

A number of the Alston family details still remain, including the family crest on the rooftop railing and the dining room table. There are brief mentions of the enslaved people that lived here but the focus is on the high society family.

On the brink of the Civil War, General P.G.T. Beauregard watched from the house as shots were fired from Fort Sumter. The home later passed to Alston’s daughter Susan, who then gave it to cousin Henry Augustus Middleton Smith in 1922. It became a museum in 1973, operated by Middleton Place Plantation. It was recently featured on Outer Banks .

Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students and children and combination tickets are available with Middleton Place. Tours are held on Sunday and Monday from 1 to 4:30 pm and Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4:30 pm and last 30 minutes. The Edmonston-Alston House is located at 21 East Battery.

Get your Edmondston-Alston House Admission before you go or book a spot on The Edmonston-Alston House Walking Tour .

Heyward-Washington House

The Heyward-Washington House was built in 1772 for Thomas Heyward, Jr., one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. George Washington was even hosted here during his 1791 tour.

Heyward and his family lived here until 1794 and his descendant, DuBose Heyward, wrote the novel Porgy that George Gershwin developed into Porgy and Bess .

He sold it to the Grimke family in 1794 and it became home to soldier John and his family, including daughters, and future suffragettes and abolitionists, Sarah and Angeline. The home was purchased by the Charleston Museum in 1929 and opened in 1930 as the city’s first historic house museum.

Among the pieces of Charleston-made furnishings in the house is the Holmes Bookcase, a fine example of colonial furniture. There’s also a 1740s kitchen building and formal gardens.

Tickets are $12 and combination tickets are available with the Charleston Museum and the Joseph Manigault House. Tours are offered Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 12 to 5 pm. The Heyward-Washington House is located at 87 Church Street, a block from the Nathaniel Russell House.

Visit this home on the Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour , but entry is not included.

Joseph Manigault House

The Joseph Manigault House was built in 1803 in the Adams style and designed by brother Gabriel Manigault. Joseph was a wealthy rice planter and French Huguenot who came to America to escape religious persecution. He inherited many plantations and hundreds of slaves from his grandfather, securing his wealth.

It contains intact outbuildings like the kitchen and slave quarters, stable, and privy as well as fine furniture from Europe and beyond. The dramatic staircase is another incredible feature.

After Manigault’s death, the home was sold in 1852 to George N. Reynolds Jr. before passing to John S. Riggs in 1864. By 1920, the home was slated for demolition, but a group of locals formed the Preservation Society of Charleston to save it. The Charleston Museum purchased it in 1933.

Tickets are $12 and combination tickets are available with the Charleston Museum and the Heyward-Washington House. Tours are offered Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 12 to 5 pm. The Joseph Manigault House is located at 350 Meeting Street alongside the Charleston Museum.

Visit on the Historic City and Southern Mansion Combo Tour .

Nathaniel Russell House

The Nathaniel Russell House was built in 1808 for slave trader and merchant Nathaniel Russell in Neoclassical design. The townhouse was home to Russell, his wife, two daughters, and likely eighteen slaves to run the household.

Russell wanted only the finest home and had a number of architectural details installed like elaborate plasterwork, heart pine floors, formal gardens, and a grand three-story cantilevered staircase.

In 1857, it was purchased by Robert Allston, governor of South Carolina, and he lived there until his death. From 1870 to 1905, it operated as a boarding school before again becoming a private residence.

In 1955, the Historic Charleston Foundation was created to save the property. It remains one of the best house museums in Charleston.

Tickets are $12 for adults and can be purchased in combination with tickets to the Aiken-Rhett House. Tours are offered daily from 10 am to 5 pm and are led by docents. The Nathaniel Russell House is located at 51 Meeting Street, around the corner from Rainbow Row.

Visit the home on the Badass Broads of Charleston tour , which ends at the house.

Looking for a place to stay during your trip to Charleston’s house museums? The Wentworth Mansion and the John Rutledge House Inn are both historic homes turned inns with modern amenities like daily breakfast and WiFi.

About Caroline Eubanks

Caroline Eubanks is the editor of this website, a Lowell Thomas award-winning travel writer, and the author of This Is My South: The Essential Travel Guide to the Southern States. Her stories from the South have appeared in National Geographic Traveler, Afar, Thrillist, Roads and Kingdoms, and BBC Travel.

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102 THINGS TO DO IN MYRTLE BEACH 42. Historic Sites & Plantations Near Myrtle Beach

Overview historic sites & plantations near myrtle beach.

Located just south of the Grand Strand, South Carolina’s Lowcountry is one of the most scenic and history-rich regions in the country. And while Myrtle Beach is not technically part of the Lowcountry, it’s just a short drive away from some of the area’s most unique cultural gems. The best part is that, if you plan it out right, you can experience several of the region’s attractions in one day trip, and still have time to enjoy a great Lowcountry meal for dinner. These sites are must-see’s for anyone interested in American and Southern history.

Brookgreen Gardens

This former plantation near Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular attractions along the Grand Strand, and its beautiful botanical gardens host one of the largest outdoor sculpture museums in the US. After plantation days were over, Brookgreen Gardens was founded by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington in 1931 and is a designated National Historic Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This site near Myrtle Beach covers 1,600 acres and includes three historic 18th- and 19th-century plantations.

Kaminski House Museum

The Kaminski House stands out among the more than 60 antebellum homes in Georgetown, South Carolina . Originally built by the “King of Georgetown,” Paul Trapier, this house overlooking the Sampit River is steeped in history. The home is open for group, school, and individual tours. Docent-guided tours for individuals are offered Monday through Saturday during three time slots each day. Call to reserve your spot to see this historical site just 35 miles from Myrtle Beach.

Day Trips to Charleston

This tour company offers day trips to Charleston, South Carolina, to see the city’s historic sites during an all-inclusive tour. The bus departs right from Myrtle Beach resorts and offers tours Monday through Saturday. This all-inclusive package includes bus transportation, a carriage tour of the city, a boat tour of Charleston Harbor, a tour of Fort Sumter, and a tour of Boone Hall Plantation, and you’ll have time for shopping and lunch. These tours start at $149 per person.

Explore the historic coastal city of Charleston, South Carolina, with the experienced guidance of Charleston Harbor Tours. They provide transportation to and from Myrtle Beach. The trip includes options for a carriage ride or shopping at the Charleston City Market, plus a 90-minute Charleston Harbor Tour, and a tour at Boone Hall Plantation. This excursion departs from Myrtle Beach.

Waccamaw Lady Plantation River Tours

These two-hour scenic boat tours set off from Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Climb aboard the Waccamaw Lady riverboat and enjoy a local historian’s narration of the area as you cruise by six rice plantations and observe trunk gates along the fields, and see slave cabins around Myrtle Beach. The scenic surroundings in these wildlife areas also afford glimpses of alligators, eagles, osprey, and other natural sights.

Hobcaw Barony

This plantation is just south of Pawleys Island in Georgetown, South Carolina. Set on 16,000 acres of land, this historic site near Myrtle Beach is the former winter retreat of Wall Street financier and presidential advisor Bernard Baruch. The property is now a nature preserve, but the caretakers also offer tours of the property and mansion and the 19th Century slave village. The 1,800-square-foot Discovery Center offers a look at the history and ecology of the land through artifacts and photographs.

Hopsewee Plantation

A visit to this Revolutionary War-era plantation near Myrtle Beach is a step back in time like no other in the area. Preserved but not restored, the original brick and black Cypress house (circa 1735) still stands on the grounds. Visitors can also take a stroll through the natural grounds where plenty of moss-covered live oaks add to the serene sense of history the plantation offers.

The Rice Museum

Here’s a little known fact: In 1840, Georgetown produced almost half of the American rice crop and the  region’s output was vital not only to the rest of the colonies but also to other countries. In addition to the permanent collection and rotating exhibits that feature the works of local artists, the Museum is also home to the Browns Ferry Vessel, the oldest vessel on display in the nation.

Atalaya Castle at Huntington Beach State Park

Atalaya is a former castle located at Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. The castle served as a winter home for Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, founders of Brookgreen Gardens. This National Historic Landmark is available for tours Wednesday through Saturday during daily hour-long time slots. 

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More Things To Do You Might Also Enjoy...

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41. Art Museums & Galleries

In addition to being a picturesque seaside destination, Myrtle Beach is also home to several venues where fine visual art is on display throughout the year. From handmade work by local artists to exhibits by renowned painters, photographers, and sculptors …

28. Myrtle Beach Zoos & Wildlife Attractions

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40. Halls of Fame

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A Thoughtful and Inclusive Tour of Historic Charleston Plantations

At sprawling plantations in south carolina’s largest city, you’ll discover renowned architecture, award-winning gardens—and a growing awareness of the importance of centering black voices..

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Middleton Place

It’s no secret that Charleston and its most beautiful estates have a complicated past. With 40 percent of all the enslaved who were brought to America coming through the Holy City, many ended up at the plantations that are now historic destinations. Traditionally, plantation tours focused on the opulence of the houses and tended to highlight the perspectives of wealthy white inhabitants. Today, this is changing, as nearly all the plantation sites in the Charleston area feature tours of slave quarters, African American history exhibits, and immersive Gullah Geechee culture programs, a distinctive group of African Americans whose ancestors were enslaved in the Lowcountry.

Because of these educational, contemplative experiences, visiting Charleston’s plantations can feel more rewarding and insightful than ever before. Walk in the footsteps of the enslaved and see where they slept, worked, and worshiped. Listen to moving stories and songs from true descendants of the Gullah Geechee people. Visit the headquarters for the Freedmen’s Bureau, an important early Reconstruction agency that worked to secure the freedom of African Americans. Here are some ways you can discover the full history behind Charleston’s plantations, while honoring the people who were enslaved there.

Boone Hall Plantation

Christopher Shane 2014

Experience Gullah Geechee culture with the people who know it best

The only plantation in Charleston to offer a live exploration of Gullah Geechee culture, Boone Hall Plantation helps to preserve these distinctive, meaningful traditions. During the presentation, Gullah Geechee descendants share their history, allowing guests to experience their enlightening and moving storytelling, song, and dance firsthand.

A visit to Boone Hall also provides an in-depth look at the lives of the enslaved and African Americans. Its Black History in America exhibit, staged throughout nine of the estate’s historic dwellings, illustrates different periods from slave ships arriving to the struggle for civil rights up to present day. While touring the sprawling grounds, visitors have an opportunity to witness the living quarters, historic relics, and lifestyle of the enslaved who lived at Boone Hall, in addition to house tours and the stunning Avenue Of Oaks, a three-quarter mile stretch of 270-year-old giant live oaks draped with Spanish moss.

Discover the unabridged truth of an important heritage site

Established in 1851, McLeod Plantation Historic Site is an award-winning Gullah Geechee heritage site, carefully preserved in recognition of generations of enslaved people. Originally a 1,693-acre labor camp, the estate has played many roles, including hospital for the Confederates, burial ground for Union soldiers, and headquarters for the Freedmen’s Bureau. Today, the 37-acre plantation hosts guided interpretive tours that illuminate the lives of the men, women, and children who lived and worked here before and after slavery.

Most of all, McLeod focuses on the African Americans who lived on the property well into the late 20th century. Compare the McLeod family home with those built for enslaved families, explore the meaning of spirituality in the lives of McLeod Plantation’s residents, and trace the emergence of Gullah culture in the Lowcountry.

McLeod Plantation Historic Site

Explore the African American history of three different plantations

Spend your day outside of downtown Charleston visiting these three neighboring plantations that are just down the road from one another. Drayton Hall , built in 1738, is the oldest unrestored plantation house in America still open to the public. With no plumbing, electric lighting, or furnishings in the main house, it allows a rare opportunity to appreciate the original architecture of a late 18th-century home. Visitors to Drayton Hall can view an interactive exhibit on Black history, the largest documented African American cemetery in North America (and the oldest still in use), and a collection of 17th- to 19th-century artifacts that were recovered during excavations, providing insight into the undocumented lives of both the African and Native Americans who were enslaved here.

Nearby, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens , the oldest public garden in America and a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, invites guests to embark on a variety of naturalist-guided tours, including a boat excursion on the “Ashley River and the Nature Tram” tour, where you’ll be able to spot alligators, turtles, and birds like blue herons, ibises, and egrets. “From Slavery to Freedom: The Magnolia Cabin Project Tour” instead focuses on the stories of the African American families who were once enslaved here, as well as Black history from the segregation era through today’s modern civil rights. Visitors board an open-air shuttle that transports them to former slave dwellings (four cabins built in the 1850s and a smokehouse from circa 1900) where free men and women who worked to design and maintain the gardens, and served as Magnolia’s first tour guides, also lived after the Civil War.

Finally, see history come alive at Middleton Place , home to some of America’s oldest and most significant landscaped gardens. Craftspeople in the stable yards demonstrate the skills employed by enslaved people, from sewing clothing to making tools in the blacksmith shop. Eliza’s House, a Reconstruction-era African American freedman’s dwelling named for its last resident Eliza Leach, contains a permanent exhibit on slavery that provides a glimpse of the everyday life of the plantation’s enslaved people.

Drayton Hall

Dig deeper into the past

Looking for a little more guidance or simply don’t want to do any driving? Leave it to Gullah Tours , operated by Alphonso Brown, a lecturer on the Gullah language and Black history of Charleston, and Sites & Insights operated by Al Miller, an author and community historian. As the area’s premier tours related to Gullah Culture, you’ll visits a variety of sites like Catfish Row, the Sea Islands, and the historic Battery, adding invaluable insight to topics like Gullah Geechee culture, the Stono Rebellion, and important African American figures.

800 Richland Street, Columbia, 29201

South Carolina Is Home to 76 National Historic Landmarks… These 5 Are the Best Ones to Visit

B eginning in 1935, the United States began an increased effort to preserve important historical places around the country. It took until 1960 for the National Historic Landmark program to come to fruition under the authority of the National Park Service and, later, as a segment of the National Register of Historic Places. Today, there are over 2,600 National Historic Landmarks (NHLs) throughout the country. According to the National Park Service , “The designation of a property as an NHL:

• Preserves the stories of nationally important historic events, places, and people for all Americans.
• Helps to protect the historic character of the property from any federal action.
• Might facilitate eligibility for grants, tax credits, and other opportunities to maintain its historic character.”

Some states naturally have more NHLs than others, with a majority clustered on the East Coast where early colonists jumpstarted American history. South Carolina , as one of the original 13 colonies with a rich history, is home to 76 NHLs. With so many to visit, we’ve rounded up the top five best sites to explore on your next trip to the Palmetto State .

1. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum — Mount Pleasant, SC

Okay, this first location is a bit of a cheat. The museum itself isn’t recognized as an NHL, but several of the ships featured on the naval base are. With a single stop, you can visit two vessels listed as NHLs: both the U.S.S. Laffey and U.S.S. Yorktown rest at anchor in the Charleston Harbor.

The destroyer Laffey served in the D-Day invasion in 1944, the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, the blockade of Korea in 1952, and Cold War efforts between 1957 and 1964, earning the nickname “The Ship That Would Not Die.”

Yorktown , an aircraft carrier also known as the “Fighting Lady,” played a large role in the World War II offensive in the Pacific between 1943 and 1945, as well as during the Vietnam War between 1965 and 1968. She also rescued the crew and capsule from the Apollo 8 space mission in 1968.

The National Park Service designated both ships as NHLs in 1986, and both continue to serve as museum ships to educate and entertain visitors.

2. St. Philip’s Episcopal Church — Charleston, SC

St. Philip’s represents the oldest congregation in South Carolina and, in fact, the oldest congregation south of Virginia . The original wooden church took shape in 1681 at the current location of the St. Michael’s Episcopal Church on Broad and Meeting. The current St. Philip’s is now located on Church Street, a few blocks away, after being damaged in a hurricane and moved.

The rebuilt church features Tuscan porticoes and Roman columns, which contribute to a larger-than-life feeling within the church. The steeple, the last part of the church to be completed in 1850, stands tall enough to be used as a lighthouse that helped guide sailors into Charleson’s harbor until 1915. The church was designated an NHL in 1973 to protect its history and significance. 

3. Beaufort Historic District — Beaufort, SC

The second-oldest town in the state, Beaufort took shape on Port Royal Island in 1711. Many of the classic homes here take visitors back in time, before the Civil War. Most residents had already fled by the time Civil War armies reached the town, so they converted the buildings into hospitals, offices, and other useful purposes rather than destroy them. As such, historic Beaufort features breathtaking examples of antebellum construction, with homes designed in Federal, neoclassical, Greek Revival, and Queen Anne styles. Live oak trees hung with Spanish moss add to the atmosphere, as do the many graveyards, chapels, and businesses.

The National Register of Historic Places recognizes both the district as a whole and individual properties, including the Anchorage, the Barnwell-Gough House, Tabby Manse, and more. The district was recognized as an NHL in 1973, with two houses — the Marshlands and the Robert Smalls House — also recognized individually in 1973.

4. Burt-Stark Mansion — Abbeville, SC

The Burt-Stark Mansion goes by multiple other names, including the Armistead Burt House and “The Deathbed of the Confederacy.” This Greek Revival-style home was built in the 1830s and had seven owners before its donation to the Abbeville Historic Preservation Commission. Confederate President Jefferson Davis held his last council of the Civil War in the Burt-Stark Mansion in 1865, where he admitted the Confederacy had lost. After this meeting, the Confederacy dispersed.

The house was named a NHL in 1992 and continues to operate as a museum to the Old South. Period-accurate antiques, furniture, and artifacts fill the home, creating a time capsule for visitors to enjoy.

5. Atalaya and Brookgreen Gardens — Murrells Inlet, SC

Home of America’s first and largest formal sculpture garden, Atalaya and Brookgreen Gardens offer beautiful views for visitors. Atalaya, the expansive home on the property, features Spanish Revival architecture that echoes the styles found in coastal Spain . The house also includes the large studio space used by celebrated sculptor and philanthropist Anna Hyatt Huntington and where she produced much of her art.

Brookgreen Gardens encompasses more than 9,000 acres as a nature preserve, including 550 acres used as sculpture garden that showcases a wide breadth of Huntington’s sculptures alongside those of her contemporaries. The property’s designation as a NHL, which came in 1992, only includes the 550 acres of sculpture garden and the Atalaya buildings.

South Carolina contains many houses, buildings, and properties that contributed to the creation and formation of the United States. While we could only highlight a few here today, there are many more to explore, especially within Charleston. The beautiful historic homes, plantations, churches, and other areas help remind us of our history and commemorate our past in a way worth celebrating. Thankfully, projects like the National Historic Landmark program aim to preserve these places for all to learn from and enjoy.

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• South Carolina's Best Small Towns for a Weekend Escape

If life has been stressful and you know the cure is a weekend escape, then let us help you find the location that will help you relax the most. The tea capital of the US is the perfect place to start. These seven charming small towns in South Carolina offer the perfect southern hospitality and relaxation that you can imagine. Get a jump start on packing that overnight bag, and let’s get to it.

This coastal town sits right by the Atlantic Ocean. Not only will you get a weekend away, but you will also get to enjoy the salty air of the beach with sand in between your toes. This exquisite town has plenty for you to do by the beachside.

Along with the traditional swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles, you can also get the full wildlife experience as well. Beaufort has dolphins, sea turtles, various bird species, and dozens of fish to be seen.

Get an escape away from the beach in the tucked-away Beaufort Inn that is in the center of their historical district. Prices start at an affordable $239 per weekend night and climb in prices depending on what you’re looking for.

Georgetown , the famous spot for shopping in South Carolina is lined with shops in town and on the waterfront district. Fun fact, Georgetown is the third-oldest town in South Carolina, dating as far back as 1729.

This historic town is the perfect getaway for a weekend of shopping. The famous Georgetown Harborwalk is a four-block stroll that is filled with shops, local eateries, and plenty of scenery to experience.

The George Hotel is the coziest little spot for tourists to escape to. These hotel rooms bring the character of Georgetown to life with their historical artifacts and brick look on the outside. This hotel sits comfortably on the water to make your sunrises and sunsets the most enjoyable.

Aiken has deep equestrian roots that date back to the 19th century. This town is famous for being the home away from home for wealthy northerners who house their horses during the winter up north.

Aiken has large sporting events each year that center around horses. So, if you are a lover of horses, pick a weekend where you can see some of the best horses in the world race. The Aiken Spring Steeplechase is a popular sporting event held annually.

Experience horseback riding for yourself through the trails of the Hitchcock Woods or simply just enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Book your weekend adventure at the Willcox Hotel. This magnificent building is gleaming with US pride as it closely resembles the White House from the outside. Enjoy a fully stocked bar, unique food menus, and a relaxing pool with several waterfalls.

If you’re a war aficionado then look no further than Camden, South Carolina. Camden is known for its Revolutionary War history and historical sights throughout this small town. During the American Revolutionary War, Camden was the site of two battles known as the Battle of Camden in 1780 and the Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill in 1781.

There is an outdoor museum known as the Living History Museum. It is 107 acres and is a reconstructed village to showcase the military and 18th-century life that was there. They also offer tours of the Kershaw-Cornwallis House, which is a remade version of the home of a local war patriot that was alive during the battles.

Don’t wait any longer, step back in time and book your next weekend getaway to Camden at the Bloomsbury Inn. This is ranked as one of the best bed and breakfasts that has been preserved since 1854.

If you’re looking for complete peace and quiet, then take a trip down to Bluffton , South Carolina. This quaint town is known for its breathtaking views and arts scene. Bluffton carries the scenic views of the May River , which is about a 15-mile stretch of crystal green waters.

Take a stab at their love for seafood and try out the town's famous the Bluffton Oyster Company. Whether you enjoy your oysters raw or chargrilled, this location has you covered. They offer panoramic views of their waterfront dining.

Crawl away to this weekend getaway to the Old Town Bluffton Inn. This inn sits three stories high and provides the most amazing sunrises that you’ve ever seen. And the best part is they have the best rate guarantee according to their website.

Edisto Beach

Maybe you’re looking to get out of the office life and enjoy the natural beauty that nature offers us. Edisto Beach, South Carolina is the spot for you. As the name suggests Edisto Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the water, but without the crowds. Enjoy time alone listening to the waves and seagulls circling above.

The Edisto State Park is the perfect place for you to enjoy your weekend getaway with the 1,255 acres of pure natural beauty. From walking, hiking, and birdwatching, to kayaking and outdoor camping, this spot has it all in store for you.

Enjoy your stay at the classic Wyndham Ocean Ridge which offers a comfortable stay with beachfront views. Also, you can enjoy the cool crisp dip of an afternoon swim in their pool. Rates are flexible depending on your overnight needs.

Last but certainly not least, Walhalla offers the small-town feel that is sure to bring the Southern charm right to your heart. This town offers a rich German history dating back to the mid-19th century. This cute town offers festivals and cultural traditions that honor their German ancestry.

Visit the historic St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church that was established in 1858. The sharp steeple and old-timey cemetery lets you take a walk in the past during this weekend getaway. Top your weekend off with German-styled cuisine at a place like Stella’s Southern Bistro.

Get the best southern feel by booking an Airbnb during this trip. Stock up on the best Southern foods, and bring back the joy of cooking and the serenity of nature that surrounds you during your getaway.

So, no matter your reason for needing a weekend getaway. These seven small towns in South Carolina can offer you the type of getaway that you desperately need. Whether you’re looking for a loud weekend getaway at the horse races in Aiken or a quiet homey feel in Bluffton dining on oysters, there is something for everyone. Your bag is packed, simply choose which town is right for you.

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How to plan your summer vacation to South Carolina’s Sea Islands

Jun 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Plan the perfect summer vacation in the Sea Islands with this step-by-step guide © Raquel Lonas / Getty Images

Amid inland  South Carolina 's year-round bliss – in  Charleston , Columbia and Greenville – the state’s shoreline particularly pops come summertime.

South of Myrtle Beach and stretching to the Georgia state line where Savannah awaits, you’ll find South Carolina's Sea Islands, a stretch of islands each with their own unique ambiance and summer flair.

Your options include the family-friendly and golf haven of Hilton Head, the historic downtown of Beaufort and more secluded options for bird-watching and fishing galore. As you finalize your Palmetto State summer itinerary, there are some key logistical must-knows to truly soak it all in. Here’s the scoop on South Carolina's Sea Islands.

First time in South Carolina? Here's everything you need to know before you go

Step 1: Pick a home base

Hilton head island.

Vibes: Consider this your island destination for staying occupied yet tranquil. Hilton Head is renowned for white-sand bliss, a small-town core and big-time resorts. This is the best option for a family vacation, too, with plenty of quirky activities spanning zip-lining its marshes to an extensive go-kart track, all of which you can find at Adventure Hilton Head  and other island spots.

Do: Hilton Head is a golfing destination with nearly 30 courses island-wide. Sea Pines Resort is a top pick, with three courses within its confines, including Harbour Town, which hosts the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage tournament. Otherwise, plop on a beach – Coligny Beach is fully equipped with restrooms, gazebos and benches for a seamless experience.

Stay: The Sweetgrass Inn at Hilton Head Health puts wellness front and center with daily health retreats, nutrition workshops and, for longer stays, a weight loss track, if desired. Beach House is laid-back, with an on-site tiki hut and recently renovated pool.

Eat: Hit Skull Creek Boathouse for a sunset and, within its on-site Dive Bar space, fresh sushi selections. Nectar Farm Kitchen has southern coastal fare down to an art, with sweet potato pancakes and hearty-portioned chicken and waffles.

Folly Beach

Vibes: A 20-minute drive south of Charleston, this is where residents of “the Holy City” head to unwind in the summer. The southern hospitality and general friendliness of Charleston oozes into its beachy neighbor, where locals trade in their bowties and pastel dresses for swim trunks and swimsuits. Its ocean’s edge is dotted with surf shops – like McKevlin’s and Ocean Surf Shop – with a spot known as the Washout being where veteran surfers flock for swells.

Do: For surfing newbies, take a lesson with local mainstays like Isla Surf School or Shaka Surf School , the latter of which hosts kids' summer camps and a Saturday surf and yoga class for women. Folly Beach has a unique saltwater creek and coastal marsh landscape – you can learn all about it and hunt for some shark teeth along the way with a Charleston Outdoor Adventures eco tour .

Stay: For views, each room at the Tides Folly Beach comes with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Its on-site BLU Beach Bar & Grill has a tiki bar and one-of-a-kind vistas of the Folly Beach Pier which juts into the ocean next door. Regatta Inn is the island’s luxe bed-and-breakfast option, with a daily breakfast spread and golf cart shuttle to the beach.

Eat: Folly Beach is loaded with beach bars with fare and booze that run the full spectrum of no-frills to fancy. Lowlife Bar has a daily brunch from 10am to 3pm with a memorable Maryland-style crab cake, chicken and waffles and a pimento cheese plate. Three blocks off the beach, Jack of Cup Saloons serves up craft brews and sake with a variety of Indian and Asian-inspired dishes.

Edisto Island

Vibes: Approximately 50 miles southeast of Charleston, this island is dotted with beachside rentals on stilts, stately plantation abodes and stunning beaches. This is a more relaxed vibe compared to Hilton Head or Folly Beach, with plenty of quirky entertaining things to keep you occupied. An example – and not for the faint of heart – is the Edisto Island Serpentarium , with habitats for a variety of snakes, alligators and turtles.

Do: Edisto Beach State Park is arguably the hot spot for collecting shells in the state. Botany Bay is a marshy, bird-watching paradise where shorebirds, wild turkeys and egrets abound. This is a quiet spot for a sunset cruise, too, with Botany Bay Ecotours being a go-to operator.

Stay: Vacation rentals are the norm here. A conglomerate of rentals owned by Wyndham on the southwestern tip of the island offers the most options in a singular place. For golfers, there is a course – the Plantation Course – in the middle of the complex.

Eat: Cute and homegrown are the general culinary vibes on the island. McConkey’s Jungle Shack serves up wings, burgers, wild rum punch concoctions and a famed local sweet tea. Sea Cow Eatery is an intimate diner that’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (minus Monday when it closes at 2pm). Regardless of what time of day it is, keep an eye on its ever-changing homemade pie selections.

Step 2: Book your accommodations

Vacation rentals abound along South Carolina’s coast. In general, individual owners or operating entities open up summer reservations either a year in advance or six months in advance, though it may vary. VRBO, AirBnb and HomeToGo are statewide favorites for rentals. Additionally, you may want to check the state’s tourism website for additional sanctioned options as well as local chambers of commerce.

Across the board on South Carolina’s sea islands, there are options for plopping it at a resort, within a vacation home or at a bed and breakfast and making memories solely on-property. If you’re looking to keep antsy guests or kids occupied, Hilton Head boasts the most things to do. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is perhaps the best of all worlds – quietly tucked on the northern edge of the island, exuding a casual vibe with a water slide and within minutes of shopping at Shelter Cove Harbour .

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Step 3: Plan your days

Hilton Head is considered a fishing utopia, where spot-tailed trout, flounder, grouper and even sharks abound. Hilton Head is one of the largest breeding grounds for sharks on the East Coast and, yes, you can fish for them, too. You’ll need to charter a fishing boat – ideally with a captain, too, to make it seamless – and for that FishingBooker is trusted and up-to-date.

Beyond the islands, three city visits may be easily pinned to any South Carolina sea islands itinerary. Savannah, Georgia is within a 45-minute drive of Hilton Head Island – saunters through its brick public squares and along its boutique-filled main drag, Broughton Street, are musts. Charleston – closest to Folly Beach – is a cobblestone street wonderland, with a waterfront park overlooking Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter making for a city-meets-tranquil reprieve. Beaufort – located between Hilton Head and Edisto – is on Port Royal Island and has a historic district worthy of a day trip. Its museum selections span the quirky (check out  the Kazoobie Kazoo Factory ) to the reflective – the Beaufort History Museum showcases more than 500 years of history with exhibits on plantation culture, the Spanish American War and more.

Step 4: Choose the best places to eat in South Carolina’s Sea Islands

In Hilton Head, the blue crab reigns supreme – crack some at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks , with vistas of Port Royal Sound and periodic live music. Otherwise, fresh seafood is the way to go along the coast with shrimp and grits, a lowcountry boil and seafood salad being menu norms.

The island towns are also home to some memorable mom-and-pop grocery stores with curated, South Carolina-bred items. Bert’s Market on Folly Beach has it all; stop by for pimento cheese, boiled peanuts and a visit to the deli counter. Palmetto Dunes General Store on Hilton Head Island is a haven for fresh fried chicken and soft-serve ice cream, among other grocery staples.

Step 5: Getting there

Two international airports generally serve as home bases for journeys to these parts. Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is within a 45-minute drive of Hilton Head and more remote adventures in Daufuskie Island. Charleston International Airport is within 30 minutes of Folly Beach and approximately 2 hours north of Hilton Head. Hilton Head Island Airport also offers select domestic flights.

For train travel, Amtrak has a major station in Charleston, with a smaller operation in Yemassee, South Carolina – a taxi ride from the train station to the islands is the seamless option from there.

Step 6: What to pack

Check ahead of time to see what your hotel and/or vacation rental supplies in terms of beach items – they can vary drastically. Depending on what is provided and how much you’d like to pack, it may be wise to bring a cooler, snorkeling gear, goggles, water sports gear and water floats with you. Otherwise, during the summer months, count on using sunscreen, sunglasses, sun protective clothing, sandals and – in swampy areas – insect repellant, daily. Fortunately in the home bases we’ve outlined in (Step 1), souvenir shops sell all of the aforementioned, but count on paying a premium.

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