Is the Student House Tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and provides engaging stories that can capture the interest of children and adults alike.

Are there any physical accessibility options?

While some areas have uneven surfaces typical of historic sites, Drayton Hall makes efforts to accommodate visitors with mobility concerns where possible.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Photography is allowed on the grounds and exterior, but flash photography and tripods are prohibited inside the historic buildings.

How can I book a private group tour?

Private tours can be booked directly through the Drayton Hall website or using the provided referral link to secure your preferred date and time.

Are pets allowed on the tour?

Pets are not permitted inside the buildings or on the trails except for service animals.

What should I do in case of rain?

The tour continues rain or shine; bringing a raincoat or umbrella is recommended to stay comfortable during outdoor portions.

Student House Tour | History Tour in Charleston, South Carolina

Explore America's colonial past with a private Student House Tour hosted by the Drayton Hall Preservation Trust. This exclusive history tour invites you to step inside one of the finest examples of Georgian-Palladian architecture in the United States, located just outside Charleston, South Carolina. Designed for curious minds and history enthusiasts alike, the tour offers an intimate look at how students lived and learned centuries ago within beautifully preserved historic buildings. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the house’s students, their daily routines, and education in the colonial era. Alongside rich architectural details, you’ll gain insight into the broader historical context of the region, including the lives of the people who shaped early American society. The tranquil grounds surrounding Drayton Hall create a perfect setting for reflection and photography, making this experience both educational and visually inspiring. Whether you're a history buff or looking for a unique cultural excursion, the Student House Tour brings the past to life in a private, immersive format that’s perfect for families, school groups, or individuals seeking a focused adventure.

About Drayton Hall Preservation Trust

Drayton Hall Preservation Trust stewards Drayton Hall, a nationally significant historic property located on the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina. The Trust preserves America’s earliest unrestored Palladian house—often described as the nation's oldest preserved plantation house—and interprets its architectural, cultural, and archaeological stories for the public.

Programming includes daily and seasonal guided tours such as the one-hour Signature Experience Tour that visits the cellar, main, and second floors and features the Steven and Laura Gates Exhibit Gallery and the Lenhardt Courtyard Garden. Educator-led Student House Tours provide 45–60 minute curriculum-based experiences exploring African American history, architectural preservation, and onsite archaeology. Evening offerings range from Candlelight Tours that illuminate 18th-century spaces to special events like Drayton Hall at Night with live lawn music and archaeological presentations. Seasonal and community events include the popular Annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast, holiday concerts such as African American Spirituals with Ann Caldwell and The Magnolia Singers, and hands-on workshops like the Wreath Building Workshop led by local florist Lela Solomon. The Trust also collaborates with nearby institutions to offer combination itineraries—for example, joint tours and package days with Middleton Place and Charleston Strolls walking tours—giving visitors economical ways to experience Lowcountry gardens, houses, and historic streets. Interpreters and guides emphasize preservation, authenticity, and historical context. Many ticketed experiences have limited capacity, so visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure a place.

Public programming supports conservation of the house, landscape, and archaeological collections through admission and membership, and community engagement efforts nationwide.