Magnolia Plantation
Charleston, SC
Steeped in Southern charm and spanning centuries of heritage, Magnolia Plantation invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in its lush gardens and historic grounds. Magnolia Plantation is more than just a destination; it’s a journey through time, where history, nature, and Southern hospitality meet to create an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Our afternoon
We started our afternoon on the Hop-On Hop-Off Nature Train. The guide was very knowledgeable of the plantation and its history. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is nestled along the tranquil banks of the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina. The plantation’s former rice impoundments are now a wildlife refuge, where native plants and animals thrive.
Visitors can expect to see alligators, turtles, herons, egrets, and other waterfowl. You might even encounter otters, rabbits, possums, snakes, bobcats, hawks, owls, and eagles.
We loved seeing this beautiful hawk perched on a birdhouse.
And a lovely egret.
But nothing was cooler than seeing these big guys sunning themselves on a ramp.
Or these adorable turtles taking a break from swimming.
I would love to go back and tour the old slave cabins and learn all about the history.
 When you think of a swamp, you don’t often think of beauty, but it really is a majestic, stunning sight.
The dripping Spanish moss (which we learned were neither Spanish nor moss) made the trees look elegant.
And every once in a while, we would see a shocking burst of color from a flowering bush that is hinting at what’s to come in the months ahead.
The actual plantation house is not original to the property but it is still lovely.
After getting our bearings, we decided to explore the plantation on our own. We found this beautiful green bridge.
Across the water we were looking at these beautiful birds, turtles, and statue and noticed there was also an alligator with them.
Keep your eyes peeled because as we were walking and chatting, we didn’t realize that in the water right in front of us was this guy.
As well as this one. I nearly jumped when I saw how close to us they were from the path.
It is a lovely place to explore and take in the beauty of nature.
I’d love to visit later in the season when everything is blooming.
And make sure you find this stunning white bridge to take some pictures. Talk about Southern charm!
Make sure you look around because you will find hidden statues
Gazebos
And gorgeous views all around you.
Our next stop was the Wildlife Center, home to rescued animals. We saw some adorable animals including the friendliest goat we’ve ever met.
As well as some deer that loved to be pet.
The animals all looked so comfortable at the Wildlife Center. Just look how adorable this duck is.
And how grand this peacock is.
There were great horned owls
And eastern copperhead snakes
 When can you visit?
Sun – Sat:
9am – 5pm (holiday schedules vary)
How much are tickets?
Where can you buy tickets?
Click HERE to purchase tickets.
Tips for a Great Day
General admission tickets: include access to the grounds, walking and biking trails, Historic Gardens, Wildlife Center, the Wildlife Observation Tower, hop-on hop-off Nature Train, Audubon Swamp walk, Slavery to Freedom Tour and cabins.
Guided Tours: Magnolia House and Boat Tour are sold separately.
Parking Information: They offer free parking.
Feeling Hungry? Peacock Café opens at 10:00am and sells a variety of sandwiches, sweets, snacks, and beverages including wine and beer.
Gift shop: Their gift shop has beautiful souvenirs and also has snacks and beverages available for purchase.
Pets? Leashed dogs are welcome on our grounds, in our gardens, and in our Audubon Swamp. Dogs are NOT permitted in our Wildlife Center, Gift Shop, or on any of the guided tours.
Want more info?
Click HERE to get to their website.
Give them a follow
3550 Ashley River Road
Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 571-1266
A warm thank you to Magnolia Plantation for having us as your guests. It was a fun way to spend an afternoon in Charleston. The plantation is lovely and we can’t wait to return. As always, all opinions are 100% of MyTravelingKids.com.