Charleston , United States

Drayton Hall Plantation Tour

Active

(10 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Chicora Tours is the only tour company in Charleston that provides this experience of Drayton Hall Plantation. We take pride in being able to show our guests the oldest and most authentic plantation house in Charleston. Drayton Hall is one of the most beautiful, historic and aesthetically pleasing places in the entire Charleston area.

Whether you are a history buff, a photographer or an architectural enthusiast, Drayton Hall has something to offer anybody who can appreciate one of the most astounding sites in Charleston.

Available options

Drayton Hall Plantation Tour

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Built in 1738, Drayton Hall plantation is located on the Ashley River. It is one of the best and most preserved examples of Georgian-Palladian architecture in the United States.
While at Drayton Hall, guests will participate in a one-hour guided house tour led by a professionally trained historic interpreter. The tour will take guests through the main floor of the house as well as the cellar, all while exploring the history of Drayton Hall and those who labored and lived on the property. Guests will explore the grounds and galleries and see a variety of significant and historical aspects of Drayton Hall’s past such as furniture, artwork, manuscripts and botanical plantings based on Drayton family documents.
Guests will have the opportunity to ask the interpreter any questions designated to the history of Drayton Hall after the tour. The tour is 3.5 hours with 1 total hour of travel time from the Charleston Visitors Center to Drayton Hall and back after the tour ends.

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

4 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please meet us at the Bus Shed Terminal side of the Charleston Visitors Center at 375 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401. The Bus Shed Terminal is located right outside the Charleston Visitors gift shop and where all the tour busses are parked.

About Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and picturesque waterfront, Charleston offers a unique blend of history, charm, and Southern hospitality.

Top Attractions

Historic Charleston City Market

One of the nation's oldest public markets, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and unique souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Fort Sumter National Monument

The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and learn about its historical significance.

Historical Half-day $24 for adults, $15 for children (includes ferry ride and park entrance)

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature trails, and a zoo. It's one of the oldest public gardens in America.

Nature Half-day to full day $24 for adults, $12 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

She-Crab Soup

A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Popular Activities

Surfing at Folly Beach Kayaking in the Charleston Harbor Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches Spa treatments and wellness retreats Visiting historic sites and museums Attending local festivals and events Boating and sailing in the Charleston Harbor Fishing and crabbing

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Charleston is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Charleston International Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from city center

By bus

Charleston Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of buses. The system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic District Mount Pleasant

Day trips

Folly Beach

8 miles (13 km) • Half-day to full day

A popular beach destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. Folly Beach offers a great escape from the city with its wide sandy shores and ocean views.

Middleton Place

12 miles (19 km) • Half-day

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restored rice mill. Middleton Place offers a glimpse into the lives of plantation owners and enslaved people.

Festivals

Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February

Pro tips

Visit the Historic District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture in a more relaxed atmosphere
Take a food tour to sample the best of Charleston's culinary scene and learn about the city's rich food history
Explore the local markets, such as the Charleston City Market, for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
Consider a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Folly Beach or Middleton Place, for a change of pace and to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry
Attend a local festival or event, such as Spoleto Festival USA or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, for a unique and memorable experience