By 2 Comments on Magnolia Plantation And Gardens – Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is one of America’s most beautiful and historic cities. With so much to see and do, picking a favorite Charleston landmark is an impossible task. But if I were forced to choose, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens might top the list.

Located along the Ashley River, just 15 miles from Charleston’s historic district, Magnolia Plantation is home to America’s oldest public gardens. Founded in 1676 by the Drayton family, Magnolia Plantation was first opened to the public in 1870, making it one of America’s oldest paid attractions.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Magnolia Plantation – The plantation was founded in 1676 by the Drayton family.

The gardens have constantly evolved since Magnolia was first founded, but there are sections that have remained largely unchanged for over 325 years. Unlike the more traditional formal gardens that are common to historic homes, Magnolia Plantation features Romantic style gardens, which don’t try to control nature.

The distinction between formal and romantic style gardens may sound trivial, but the aesthetics are totally different. The way Magnolia Gardens blend together with nature, make for a unique viewing experience.

One of the best examples of formal gardens in America, is the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. The Biltmore gardens are spectacular in their own right. But having now experienced both, I’m a convert to the romantic style. Don’t get me wrong, both styles are beautiful, but the romantic style has an immersive quality that formal gardens can’t match.

There are several ponds throughout the gardens, all featuring beautiful bridges. The water appears black because of tanic acid released from cypress trees.

Rather than blather on about how beautiful the gardens are, I’ll keep this short and let you flip through some of the photos. Take a look and decide for yourself which style of garden you prefer. Whichever side you come out on, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens are worth a visit. There’s plenty to see in Charleston, but Magnolia Plantation might be my favorite.

The lakes and ponds were created hundreds of years ago, when levees were built for rice cultivation. No one knows exactly when the levees were built, but it was surely before the Revolutionary War.


Unlike more traditional formal gardens, the Romantic Garden style doesn’t try to control nature but rather embraces it.
The Drayton Family tomb, built in the late 1600’s.


The gardens at Magnolia Plantation have been evolving since it was founded. Some sections of the garden are over 325 years old.
Magnolia Plantation is located along the Ashley River. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy views of the river.

2 Replies to “Magnolia Plantation And Gardens – Charleston, South Carolina”

  1. I made a quick trip through Charleston when my niece, Andrea, was going to the College of Charleston. Her brother, Mark, happened to be in town so that made for a party! We had lunch in the downtown area and I had just enough time to do a little driving tour around town before I had to hit the road.
    Here’s a tip for travelers… skip New Orleans, it’s pretty dumpy. Go to Charleston. It’s clean, beautiful, and has the same look from an era you’ll see in New Orleans without the filth. And… those gardens look like a can’t miss. Once again, Zach, you have found the diamond in the rough!

  2. So glad I got to experience this with you and Samantha. Truly a beautiful place with so much history. Definitely worth a visit for anyone traveling through Charleston.

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