Step into more than 300 years of Southern history on a guided tour of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Experience scenic tram rides through lush gardens and rich wildlife in historic Charleston.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most visitors with moderate walking ability
Wildlife
History
Magnolia Plantation was founded in 1676 and contains one of the oldest curated gardens in the US, blending antebellum history with natural preservation.
Conservation
The plantation practices sustainable gardening and habitat restoration to protect native species and maintain the historic landscape's integrity.
Adventure Sightseeing
Step into more than 300 years of Southern history on a guided tour of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Experience scenic tram rides through lush gardens and rich wildlife in historic Charleston.
Adventure Sightseeing operates guided tours in and around Charleston, South Carolina, offering a curated mix of city tours, plantation visits, harbor cruises and seasonal events. The company presents a 90-minute "See It All" city tour in climate-controlled minibuses that highlights 350 years of Charleston history, architecture, The Citadel and the Battery. Plantation options include guided house tours and garden visits at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and Boone Hall Plantation—Boone Hall dates to 1681 and is noted by USA Today as the "Best Plantation in the Charleston Area"—with Slave Street presentations and narrated tram rides through swamp and wildlife areas. Harbor experiences feature the Carolina Belle harbor cruise, a scenic trip past Fort Sumter and more than 75 landmarks, plus a dedicated Patriot's Point excursion aboard a comfortable mini bus to explore the USS Yorktown and South Carolina’s largest maritime museum. Combo itineraries combine city, plantation and harbor elements for half-day or full-day touring; transportation options include air-conditioned coaches and guided transfers from downtown Charleston. Seasonal offerings include the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park with over 700 displays and two million lights, complete with transportation and a s'more kit. Guides are described as knowledgeable and professional, and tours emphasize historical context, natural beauty and accessibility for families. Adventure Sightseeing focuses on reliable logistics, comfortable vehicles and curated itineraries that connect travelers with Charleston’s most iconic sites. Advance reservations are recommended to secure seats on popular dates and seasonal events, ensuring timely departures and seamless experiences for groups.
Tours Offered
13 tours
Guided city, plantation, harbor combos
Tour Lengths
90 min–4.5 hr
Half-day and full-day options
Harbor Cruises
Carolina Belle
Tour includes 75+ landmarks
Holiday Lights
2 million lights
Festival of Lights at James Island
Choose city, plantation, harbor or combo tours—select dates, reserve seats, and experience Charleston’s top attractions.
Bring insect repellent
The gardens and marshlands attract mosquitoes, especially in warmer months—repellent helps keep bites at bay.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes
Paths can be uneven through the gardens and marsh areas; proper footwear ensures ease and safety during your tour.
Arrive early for tram rides
Tram tours fill quickly during peak season; arriving early helps you secure a seat and get the full experience.
Stay hydrated on warm days
Charleston’s subtropical climate can get hot; bringing water is key to staying comfortable throughout your visit.
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes common during spring visits.
spring
Sunhat
Provides shade during sunny summer tram rides.
summer
Light jacket
Useful for cooler fall mornings and evenings.
fall
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for navigating garden paths and uneven terrain.