Even though Isle of Palms is a beloved coastal destination, did you know that the area is central to some historic Charleston local plantations and gardens? In just a short drive from the Isle of Palms, you can find some of Charleston’s most captivating historical plantations and gardens, giving you a glimpse into the past with its beautiful landscapes.
From the vast grounds of Boone Hall Plantation to the picturesque Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, each location provides an unforgettable experience. And after a day of exploring these remarkable sites, you can come home to a comfortable and luxurious rental from Carroll Realty – your trusted partner in finding the perfect home away from home on the Isle of Palms!
Boone Hall Plantation
One of the most famous and photographed plantations in the Charleston area is Boone Hall Plantation. Established in 1681, this plantation is one of America’s oldest working plantations and has been continuously producing crops for over 320 years. At Boone Hall, you can tour the historic mansion, explore the original slave cabins, and learn about the lives of the people who lived and worked on the plantation. Experience the Gullah culture through storytelling and performances shown at the Gullah Theater
As you make your way into Boone Hall, you’ll be met by the iconic Avenue of Oaks, a road lined with centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Come experience the seasonal events like U-Pick fields, and the popular pumpkin patch and corn maze.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Another must-visit destination is Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. This is one of the most famous botanical gardens in the country! It was founded in 1676 by the Drayton family and is home to the oldest public gardens in America. Magnolia Plantation offers several ways to explore its spectacular grounds. Wander through the lush, romantic-style gardens that feature azaleas, camellias, and different plants that bloom throughout the seasons.
Take a guided tour of the historic house or go on a Nature Tram Tour that takes you through the plantation’s wetlands, forests, and marshes, where you may spot local wildlife such as alligators, herons, and egrets. Coming to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens makes for the perfect day trip, where you can learn about the area’s history, spend time in nature, and get to know the heart of the Lowcountry.
Middleton Place
Come to Middleton Place to learn the story of one of the most prominent families in South Carolina history. The gardens of Middleton Place were first planted in the 1740s, putting them right on up there with some of America’s oldest landscaped gardens. As you make your way around, you’ll notice that the gardens were designed in a classic French style – with their terraced lawns, reflecting pools, and winding pathways.
Middleton Place also offers a glimpse into plantation life through its House Museum. Here you can observe different family heirlooms and artifacts. Explore the Stableyards, where you can watch demonstrations of historic trades such as blacksmithing and pottery. Grab a bite to eat at the The Middleton Place Restaurant for fresh farm-to-table menu options using ingredients grown on the plantation. Sample the best of traditional Lowcountry cuisine!
Drayton Hall
Drayton Hall is a Georgian Palladian plantation house, built in 1738. It’s the oldest preserved plantation house in America that is open to the public. Unlike many other historic homes, Drayton Hall has been carefully preserved rather than restored. This means you can actually see the house the way it was hundreds of years ago! Take a guided tour to learn about the family who inhabited this home, observe the rich architecture and gain insight to the experiences of slaves who worked on this plantation. The African American Cemetery on the property is one of the oldest burial grounds in the nation.
Charles Pinckney National Historic Site
Located just minutes from the Isle of Palms, the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site will give you an intimate exploration of one of America’s Founding Fathers. Charles Pinckney was a principal author and signer of the U.S. Constitution, and this site preserves a portion of his plantation, Snee Farm.
Come tour the museum, which contains exhibits about Pinckney’s life, the history of the plantation, and the contributions of enslaved African Americans to the plantation’s success. The site also features nature trails where you can enjoy a peaceful walk through the Lowcountry landscape.
Charleston Tea Garden
The Charleston Tea Garden is the only tea plantation in North America! It can be found on Wadmalaw Island which is another short drive from Isle of Palms. Visiting this garden gives you a fascinating look at how tea is grown and processed. You can take a Trolley Tour of the tea fields, visit the factory to see how tea leaves are transformed into tea, and enjoy a complimentary glass of iced tea at the end of your tour!
Cypress Gardens
This 170-acre preserve features swamplands, walking trails, and a butterfly house, giving you a peaceful getaway into the heart of South Carolina’s great outdoors. A highlight of Cypress Gardens is the boat tours that take you through the swamps, where you’ll glide past tall cypress trees and spot alligators, turtles, and birds. The gardens have also been featured in several films, including “The Notebook,” making it a perfect spot for a photo-op.
Stay with Carroll Realty Inc.
After a day of exploring the rich history and natural beauty of these local plantations & gardens in Charleston SC, there’s nothing better than returning to a relaxing and comfortable vacation rental from Carroll Realty Inc. Book your stay today!