Adventure Collective
Charleston City & Magnolia Plantation Guided Tour - Charleston

Charleston City & Magnolia Plantation Guided Tour

Charlestoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

5–7 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; involves walking at a steady but moderate pace over uneven terrain.

Overview

Experience Charleston’s rich history and stunning Magnolia Plantation gardens on this combined guided tour. Discover historic landmarks and diverse wildlife on a full-day journey through South Carolina’s iconic locale.

Charleston, South Carolina

Combo: City & Magnolia Plantation

Includes the Magnolia Plantation Bus Tour & a 90 minute city bus tour!

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Adventure Photos

Combo: City & Magnolia Plantation photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the charm of the South with Adventure Sightseeing's guided tour of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, one of America's oldest attractions. Explore stunning gardens, encounter diverse wildlife, and delve into history with a tour of the plantation house. Complete your day with a captivating city tour of historic Charleston.

Welcome to the South, y'all! Get the true lowcountry experience with Adventure Sightseeing on this guided tour of one of America's first tourist attractions, the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Dating from 1676 and open to the public since 1870, this plantation and it's world famous gardens have been owned by the Drayton family for 15 generations.

On this full day tour, you will: • Walk through one of America's oldest gardens • Experience a tram tour through the Audubon swamp gardens • See wildlife such as alligators, egrets, herons, and turtles on the nearly 600 acre plantation • Go back in time with a 30 minute tour of the plantation house!
• Round trip transportation in our climate controlled buses and all gate fees are included in the price of the tour!

When you return from Magnolia Plantation, enjoy our 3:30 90 Minute City Tour. This is usually with the same driver, but they will direct you if not. On this top rated City Tour you will hear • Select stories from 350 years of Charleston history • Beautiful architecture in the historic district • Drive through The Citadel, the South's most famous military academy • The Old City Market, lovely gardens, wrought iron art, and many of the city's 210 churches are just some of the sights you will see! • Tour around the Battery and stop for a photo opportunity with Fort Sumter in the background • Many other historic sights of Charleston!

Want more Charleston? Check out what is included with our tours FOR FREE! • The Powder Magazine- South Carolina's oldest public building. Exhibits focus on South Carolina's colonial military history!


What is not included:

Gratuities are not included, nor required, but always appreciated for a job well done!


FAQ

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is highly recommended and tours often sell out in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance. Tickets can be purchased with Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.

Are children allowed?

Yes, and there is a reduced price for children's tickets.

What type of ticket should I buy if I'm bringing a very young child?

While we welcome children of all ages on the tour, the tour is not recommended for small children. We have reduced price tickets for children ages 4 to 11. Children ages 3 and younger are free with an accompanying adult ticket.

Is there parking?

Yes, there is parking at the Visitor's Center at the surface lot or in the parking garage next door. There is a fee of $2 per hour.

Is the bus handicap accessible?

At present we cannot accommodate wheelchairs, but the bus is accessible for those with limited mobility if they can be assisted by a companion.

Can I bring food or beverages on the bus?

Food and drinks are not allowed on the bus. However, lunch will be available for purchase at Magnolia Plantation.

Do you run year-round?

Yes, we operate tours seven days a week year-round except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, & New Year's Day. Seasonal hours apply so please check our calendar for the most up to date schedule information.

Does the tour start and end at the same place?

The tour starts and ends at the same location. There will be the option to get off the bus towards the end of the tour at the Market. Transportation is provided back to the meeting location if you choose to not get off at the Market.

Is the bus air conditioned?

Yes.

Is the tour narrated?

Yes, the tour is fully narrated by a licensed, professional tour guide.

Is there a restroom on the bus?

No, but restrooms are located at the Visitors Center.

Can I carry luggage or other large items on the bus?

No. We do not have space on the bus for large items such as luggage, wheelchairs, or strollers.

Are pets allowed?

No. Service animals are allowed, however.

Are gift certificates available for the Adventure Sightseeing trips?

Yes, gift certificates are available for purchase and make excellent gifts.To purchase or get information about gift certificates, please click the "Contact bustourssc" link on the left.

**How is my gift certificate delivered? Can I print it out now and give it to the recipient myself?

Yes, you can! When you purchase your gift certificate online, you will be presented immediately with your gift certificate so that you can print it out and deliver it. If you buy it over the phone, a link to your gift certificate will be emailed to you as soon as your purchase is completed.

What if I want the gift certificate emailed to the recipient instead?

That's no problem, either! When you purchase your gift certificate, just select the option to have the certificate emailed directly to the recipient and provide their email address. You'll even be able to decide whether you want the email sent immediately or if you'd prefer to schedule it to be emailed on a future date. (For instance, if you want to buy it today so you don't forget, but you don't want it emailed to the recipient until their special day!)

Can I book a private tour?

Yes! We can accommodate a variety of special requests.

Adventure Tips

Arrive early to Magnolia Plantation

Morning visits help avoid crowds and catch wildlife at their most active near the wetlands.

Wear comfortable shoes

Expect moderate walking on garden paths and city streets, some uneven surfaces may appear.

Bring water and sun protection

Charleston’s subtropical climate means sun exposure; pack sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated.

Respect historical sites

Follow tour guidelines to preserve plantation grounds and historic buildings for future visitors.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Great Blue Heron
  • American Alligator

History

Magnolia Plantation was established in 1676, making it one of the earliest plantations with a long-standing horticultural legacy.

Conservation

Magnolia Plantation actively supports wetland preservation efforts to protect native species and maintain garden biodiversity.

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Adventure Hotspots in Charleston

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Needed for navigating garden paths and city sidewalks comfortably.

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin during sunny spring days in Charleston.

spring specific

Wide-brimmed hat

Provides shade and reduces heat exposure in summer’s strong sun.

summer specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated throughout the 5-7 hour combined tour.