Experts' Choice Award Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
What the experts agree on
America's oldest public gardens showcase centuries-old azaleas and magnolias across 200 acres, paired with a pre-Revolutionary plantation house filled with Drayton family heirlooms and antiques. Multiple tour options (swamp, boat, house) suit
“With its roots dating back to the 1680’s, Magnolia Plantation was one of the first ancestral homes of the Draytons, a prominent Lowcountry plantation family.”
– Condé Nast Traveler
Travel + Leisure "This 1676 spread has welcomed visitors since shortly after the end of the Civil War." Full review
Fodor's "Pick and choose from a variety of entertainments at Magnolia Plantation, established in the 1670s by Thomas Drayton." Full review
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And be sure to visit the 19th-century plantation house, which originally stood near Summerville.
Afar Magazine "Beautiful! Petting zoo... house tours, swamp tours, boat tours, bus tours." Full review
Michelin Guide 1 Star
"This popular, partly wild botanical garden (200ha) is renowned for its spring-blooming azaleas, and a plantation house, Magnolia Plantation, that was part of Thomas Drayton's estate in the 17C." Full review
Where "Tour a pre-Revolutionary War Plantation House and experience ten rooms filled with antiques, quilts and family heirlooms from the 19th century." Full review
Travel + Leisure "The centuries old plantation, the oldest public gardens in America, is home to thousands of beautiful flowers and plants creating a tranquil landscape"
Charleston Travel Guide
March 1, 2021
Frommer's "The house is filled with museum-quality Early American furniture, porcelain, quilts, and other Drayton family heirlooms." Full review
National Geographic
