Charleston is a beautiful city that attracts many visitors. A lot of them come to see the historic houses and museums.
If you have the time, you can also visit one of the many plantations near Charleston. They are all different and provide a fantastic look at the history of the area.
Drayton Hall
Drayton Hall, one of the most important elite plantations in colonial America and a Conde Nast Traveler Best Place to See In South Carolina, is an amazing example of Georgian Palladian architecture. Begun in 1738, it was owned by the Drayton family for seven generations and remains a historic site today.
This magnificent estate is known for its meticulous preservation, which makes it a must-visit for history buffs. Tours are offered several times a day, and you’ll be able to learn about the house and its surrounding landscape.
Visitors love how knowledgeable the tour guides are, and say that the house has a very authentic feel to it. In addition to professionally guided tours, you can also take a self-guided nature walk.
In 1974, the National Trust for Historic Preservation purchased Drayton Hall, and it’s been preserved in its original condition — without modern amenities such as plumbing and electricity. This unique conservation technique has been adopted by many historic sites and has allowed the plantation to remain a monument to American heritage.
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens is a must-see for visitors to Charleston. Not only is it a beautiful display of Southern culture, but it also serves as a historical relic of enslaved peoples in America.
The historic plantation is also home to a butterfly pavilion, a petting zoo and u-pick strawberry fields. It's a popular destination for families as well as a place to take in some fresh air!
One of the most impressive features on the Boone Hall property is the Avenue of Oaks. About 88 live oak trees were planted in two, evenly spaced rows that stretch a quarter mile along the plantation's main road leading to the main house.
The massive oaks, draped in Spanish moss, are so stunning that they were a key backdrop to the set of Gone With the Wind. Movie producers used a painting of the tree-lined drive as an inspiration for the Twelve Oaks plantation where Ashley Wilkes lived.
The French Quarter
The French Quarter is one of the most romantic areas in Charleston, perfect for leisurely walks to immerse yourself in centuries-old history. This neighborhood features charming cobblestone streets and a variety of historic buildings, churches, art galleries and restaurants.
This historic borough is named after its high concentration of French merchants who settled here in the 17th century and left their mark on the area. Bounded by Broad Street, Meeting Street and the Cooper River, it was once bustling with maritime activity and tradesmen's workshops.
While the name French Quarter originated in 1973 when preservation efforts began for warehouses along Lodge Alley, the borough was thriving long before it was named. It is home to several historic buildings and churches, including the Dock Street Theatre, Pink House Tavern, and St. Phillips Episcopal Church, the oldest congregation in Charleston.
Located on Church Street, the French Quarter Inn offers luxury accommodations for your stay in this historic district. Guests enjoy champagne upon arrival, afternoon reception, evening nightcap and an artisan continental breakfast each morning.
The Charleston Music Hall
The Charleston Music Hall, located in historic downtown, is one of the city’s best live music venues. It has a great selection of local, regional and national talent.
- With a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, this venue offers an exceptional experience. It’s also an affordable option to catch a show in the city.
- Another must-visit in Charleston is The Charleston Museum, which exhibits artifacts from the city’s rich history, as well as the natural world. It is a must-see for all tourists and a great stop before heading back to Charleston’s many historic attractions.
- The Charleston Music Hall has been operated by Frank Productions for the last six years, and now it’s managed by National Shows 2. The company focuses on booking a wider variety of shows.
