Discover the fascinating history of colonial and Civil War-era Charleston at Drayton Hall. This well-preserved plantation offers an authentic glimpse into America's past, with stunning architecture and scenic grounds.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Open to all fitness levels, mostly walking on level ground
Wildlife
History
Drayton Hall was built in 1738 and has survived numerous hurricanes and war conflicts without extensive restoration, making it a rare preservation site.
Conservation
The site actively maintains its original structure with minimal intervention to preserve its historical integrity and encourages visitors to leave no trace.
Charleston History Tours
Discover the fascinating history of colonial and Civil War-era Charleston at Drayton Hall. This well-preserved plantation offers an authentic glimpse into America's past, with stunning architecture and scenic grounds.
Charleston History Tours offers guided experiences that explore the architecture, culture, and historic landscapes of Charleston, South Carolina. Founded to showcase the city’s layered past, the company operates a variety of public and private tours across the Historic District, French Quarter, Battery, and nearby plantations.
Tour options include daily walking tours (departure at 10:00 AM), multi-hour photography tours (3- and 4-hour options), private motorized tours with convenient pick-up and drop-off, and specialized plantation excursions to sites such as Boone Hall, Drayton Hall, Middleton Place, Magnolia Plantation, and McCloud Plantation. Several tours highlight iconic downtown landmarks including Rainbow Row, the Old Exchange Building, Dock Street Theater, St. Philip’s Church, and The Citadel.
Charleston History Tours provides both group and private formats, including a dedicated “Step On” guide service for visiting groups and a PetiteKeep 2-hour private walking option for more intimate exploration. Photography tours are structured for a range of skill levels and focus on quieter alleyways, architectural details, and distinctive viewpoints.
Guides emphasize historical context and on-foot discovery; motorized tours add comfort and convenience for longer itineraries. Boone Hall tours offered through Charleston History Tours include interpretive presentations about the lives and culture of enslaved African people at that site. All tour descriptions and itineraries reflect the company’s focus on local history, walking exploration, and curated plantation visits in and around Charleston.
Tours Offered
13
City and plantation tours
Daily Tour
10:00 AM
Daily walking tour time
Photography Tours
2 durations
3- and 4-hour options
Plantation Visits
5 plantations
Drayton, Boone Hall, more
Book a walking, photography, private motorized, or plantation tour — daily departures and private options available.
Bring comfortable walking shoes
The grounds are expansive and paved pathways may be uneven in some areas, so wear sturdy shoes to explore comfortably.
Visit during early morning or late afternoon
The lighting is especially good for photos and the crowds are lighter, making for a more intimate experience.
Take extra water and sun protection
Despite shaded areas, Charleston can be hot; stay hydrated and wear sunblock to enjoy your visit comfortably.
Check for special tours or events
Look at the schedule ahead of your visit for themed tours or Civil War reenactments that can enrich your experience.
Comfortable walking shoes
Sturdy, comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the expansive grounds.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protect yourself from sun exposure during outdoor tours.
summer
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while exploring the historic site.
summer
Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic views and historic architecture.