Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Walk the magnificent gardens that surround the 464 acres of Magnolia Plantation. Established in 1676 by Thomas Drayton, Magnolia hugs the Ashley River where cotton and indigo were cash crops of the time. Preserved are the manor house and slave quarters where highly regarded informational tours are available to the public. Magnolia Plantation is also home to a wonderful zoo where animals freely roam. This idyllic setting offers the perfect place to host a wedding or other affair.

As a volunteer, I never tire of the beauty that awaits each day. Going there is a freeing experience that makes me feel rejuvenated. You will feel that way too! There are so many fun events Magnolia hosts throughout the year and the landscape changes with each season. That’s why becoming a member is such a great idea. I love to watch the animals and pet the dogs that come for a stroll. The Swamp Garden features a beautiful selection of birds not seen many other places. This is why bird watching and photography groups have made Magnolia their home. Magnolia Plantation is a wonderful place for families of all ages. Trolley tours are available for those who do not wish to hike, and boat tours are often scheduled.

Gilliard Garden Center

The Gilliard Garden Center is where I volunteer to help cultivate unique, high-quality plants, trees, and shrubs unlike others in the Charleston area. Beautiful pottery, wind chimes, and birdhouses are available to accent low-country gardens. Discover vignettes of beautiful gardens showcasing how they can be designed for shade, part-shade, or full sun. Access to Gilliard Garden Center is free to all and you’ll find the prices are great.

We feature rare perennials, top-quality fruit trees, beautiful roses, and reblooming azaleas.  And, of course you can count on Gilliard Garden Center to sell the best camellias!

Want to keep up-to-date with the latest events at Magnolia Plantation?  Visit their Facebook page.  Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is located at 3550 Ashley River Rd Charleston, SC 29414.  

 

Angel Oak

Angel Oak

Yes, I am recommending everyone see a tree, but don’t worry, it’s free. Saying the Angel Oak is just a tree is like saying the Grand Canyon is just a hole in the ground. The Angel Oak is so mammoth, no picture can show what a marvel of beauty it is. The 500 year-old tree is located on 3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455.

Drayton Hall Plantation

Drayton Hall Plantation

The plantations surrounding Charleston provide a wonderful opportunity to step back in time and learn about the historic roots that made this city so special. Guests to the area are in awe of the vast number and variety of sites to choose from. If you favor ‘preservation over restoration’ check out Drayton Hall. This 18th-century plantation is an excellent example of Palladian architecture and the only plantation house to survive intact through both the Revolutionary and Civil wars. 

Drayton Hall is located at 3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414

Posted by Barbara Hopper