Do you know what is the most famous and top-visited Charleston Plantation? Here are a couple of clues. It was founded by Thomas and Anne Drayton in 1679 and has been a family tradition for more than 300 years. It also has been owned by the same family for 13 generations! Have you guessed what plantation we are referring to? It is none other than the Magnolia Plantation. Having been built in the 1600s it has witnessed much of the history in this country from the American Revolution through the Civil War and beyond, as you might imagine.
It overlooks the banks of the Ashley River with gardens and landscape that inspire gardeners from around the world. It is home to where the first azaleas and camellias were first introduced to this country. Parts of the garden are over 325 years old! This makes them the oldest unrestored gardens in America. There is a wonderful section on their website that tells what is in bloom each month. So start planning your visit by way of the flower calendar.
If you visit between November 15th through March 15th make sure to get tickets to the “Lights of Magnolia.” This is where you will witness 9 acres of amazing lanterns with 23 themed walk-through displays. There are also family activities and food trucks. It is a fun experience for the whole family to enjoy!
Other attractions to this magnificent plantation are weddings. Imagine getting married in surroundings such as this. It would certainly be a day to remember.
There are also several tours of different sections of Magnolia such as:
The Gardens Tour. Stroll through America’s last large-scale romantic-style garden with countless varieties of flowers. Each generation in the Drayton family has added their own special touches to the gardens. It’s definitely a tour for those interested in botanical gardens.
The Plantation House Tour. This tour is 30 to 45 minutes long and begins on the front porch of the Plantation house. The tours begin at 9 am and run every hour ending at 5 pm and they cost $8 per person with a paid garden admission. Children 6 and under are free. During this tour, you will learn all about the history of the Drayton family as well as the fate of the previous two family homes.
The Nature Tram Tour. This tour lasts 45 minutes and begins at the Nature Tram depot near the main parking lot. It departs every half hour and you will need to check with the admissions gate or office for a daily schedule. The cost is $8 per person with a paid garden admission and children 6 and under are free. This tour will bring alive the historic nature of the property along with the wildlife.
Rice Field Boat Tour. This tour lasts 1 hour and departs from a dock in the historic garden. It operates 7 days a week from March through October and the costs is $8 per person with a paid garden admission and children 6 and under are free. The rice is gone today but you can still imagine what it was like as the boat glides along the Ashley River. It’s also a good break from walking.
From Slavery to Freedom: The Magnolia Cabin Project Tour. This tour lasts 45 minutes and costs $8 per person with a paid garden admission and children 6 and under are free. This tour is an effort to preserve 5 historic structures that date back to 1850. These cabins were former slave dwellings that now serve interest to an award-winning 45-minute program in African American history.
The Zoo and Nature Center. Located adjacent to the Peacock Café near the main parking area. It is open during regular garden areas and the cost is included with the basic admission ticket price. It will take you as long as you like as it is self-guided. You’ll be able to interact with domestic species that are representative of plantation life.
The Swamp Garden. This is open all year from opening until 5:30 pm. Allow 1 hour for a self-guided walk where you will see different wildlife and interesting diverse landscape.
Bird Walks. Every Sunday morning starting at 8:30 am guests are invited to tour the property and take advantage of all the nature waking up on the plantation. It is quite an experience!
Call Infinity Realty To Help You Find A Home Near Magnolia Plantation!
Magnolia Plantation could become a regular spot for you to spend time if you move to Charleston and if you do move to Charleston then make sure to give a call to Infinity Realty. Our team of experts led by Bob Chambers are some the most professional agents you’ll encounter and will give you the easiest home-buying experience imaginable. We can help you determine your top priorities and find a place that accommodates both your tastes and your budget. Our staff knows the Lowcountry well and is acquainted with all of the facilities, resources, and services available in each community. We’ll make sure to fit you with a home you’ll love!