Step into South Carolina’s past with captivating plantation tours at Hopsewee. Discover rich history, scenic river views, and holiday traditions that bring the region’s story to life.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels; comfortable footwear recommended.
Wildlife
History
Hopsewee Plantation was established in the 1740s and played a significant role in South Carolina’s rice economy and antebellum history.
Conservation
The site actively preserves its historic structures and natural environment, promoting sustainable tourism.
Hopsewee Plantation
Step into South Carolina’s past with captivating plantation tours at Hopsewee. Discover rich history, scenic river views, and holiday traditions that bring the region’s story to life.
Hopsewee Plantation in Georgetown, South Carolina, is a mid-18th century colonial rice plantation and historic house museum open to visitors.
The site preserves the original house, heirlooms, and outbuildings, and interprets the lives of families and the enslaved people who lived and worked on the estate.
Hopsewee offers guided Historic Landmark House Tours, self-guided museum visits focused on enslaved history, and the Hopsewee Inclusive Experience highlighting the birthplace of a South Carolina signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Visitors can relax at the River Oak Cottage Tea Room for Southern-inspired lunches and a Hopsewee Blend House Tea, participate in hands-on programs such as the Art of Indigo Dyeing Workshop, or attend seasonal Wine by the River events by the North Santee.
Group Event options include touring, tearoom dining, and the supplemental Gullah Presentation led by local Cultural Historians. Special accommodations for accessibility and dietary needs are available for group visits.
On the grounds, guests can walk shaded paths, view the river, explore original enslaved dwellings, and browse a gift shop that features local authors during events.
Hopsewee also hosts seasonal programs like Hopsewee Hallows, which pairs historic storytelling with riverfront reception. Interpretation emphasizes factual history and cultural context, and staff and guides work with scholars and community historians to present responsible programming.
The site provides both timed guided tours and untimed, self-paced museum admission for flexible visiting. Seasonal author appearances and signed books are offered in the gift shop during special events and public programs throughout the calendar year annually.
Location
Georgetown, SC
Situated on the North Santee River
Historic Era
Mid-18th century
Colonial home and historic landmark
Tours & Experiences
10 experiences
Guided tours, workshops, museum, events
Visit Flexibility
Untimed museum
Self-guided museum and grounds access
Reserve a Historic Landmark House Tour, book the River Oak Cottage Tea Room, or inquire about group events, workshops, and accessibility accommodations.
Arrive early for the best experience
Getting there early ensures you can enjoy the grounds and secure a good spot for the storytelling.
Dress comfortably for the weather
Historic sites involve walking and outdoor time, so wear suitable clothing.
Bring a notebook or camera
Capture the stories and scenery to remember your visit long after the tour.
Participate in holiday traditions
Engage fully with the Christmas themes to get a deeper appreciation of regional customs.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic views and storytelling moments of the tour.
Warm layers
Be prepared for cooler weather during seasonal festivities.
winter
Notebook and pen
Jot down interesting stories or details shared during the tour.
Comfortable walking shoes
Explore historic grounds comfortably during the tour.