DAY TRIPS TO PLANTATIONS Throughout South Carolina’s Lowcountry, sprawling plantations were once major producers of cash crops such as rice and indigo, produced and cultivated by enslaved Africans who were trafficked to the American South through the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Venture to these countryside properties to learn about this pre-Civil War era, and spend the day exploring the vast grounds of these sites, which hold important stories about our past. MAGNOLIA PLANTATION & GARDENS This estate in Charleston that dates back to 1679 is a significant historical, cultural and horticultural site and spans hundreds of acres along the Ashley River. LEARN: Delve into the lives of the people who lived and worked on the former rice plantation, first as enslaved laborers and then as paid staff, on the From Slavery to Freedom Tour , featuring numerous restored cabins. WILDLIFE-WATCHING: Peek at local critters, from red fox to turtles, at the Wildlife Center, or spot marsh-dwelling creatures in their natural habitat on a seasonal Wildlife Boat Tour. STROLL: Explore six miles of walking trails, romantic-style gardens with a world-renowned camellia collection, and boardwalks and bridges through the Audubon Swamp along the Ashley River. SHOP & EAT: Stop for a sandwich and an iced tea at the Peacock Café, and browse locally made food items and books at the gift shop. ROSE HILL PLANTATION STATE HISTORIC SITE This property in Union was an active cotton plantation for 128 years (both during and after slavery) and the South Carolina State Park Service acquired the property in 1960, preserving the site as an important historical destination. LEARN: Take a guided tour of the historic house once occupied by the family of William Henry Gist, Governor of South Carolina (1858–1860), and learn about the cotton boom, secession, Civil War, Reconstruction era and other important themes of the time. STROLL: Explore the gravestones at the Gist family cemetery and the unmarked stones at an African American cemetery. See heirloom roses in the historic gardens and walk two short nature trails. SHOP: In the brick kitchen behind the museum, browse the park store and gift shop for historical reproductions, books and other items related to regional history. From left to right: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Charleston; Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site, Union 36
South Carolina Vacation Guide SC 2025: Page 36
