Discover the magic of Drayton Hall at sunset with the exclusive Twilight Tour. Enjoy a private guided walk through the historic grounds as daylight fades and charming evening light transforms this remarkable estate.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the walk is on gentle terrain with slow pacing.
Wildlife
History
Drayton Hall is one of the only plantation houses in the United States still open to the public that retains both its original materials and unfinished state.
Conservation
The Drayton Hall Preservation Trust carefully manages the estate to protect its historic structures and surrounding ecosystem while promoting sustainable tourism.
Drayton Hall Preservation Trust
Discover the magic of Drayton Hall at sunset with the exclusive Twilight Tour. Enjoy a private guided walk through the historic grounds as daylight fades and charming evening light transforms this remarkable estate.
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.
Location
Charleston, SC
Historic Ashley River location
Tours Offered
10 experiences
Signature tours and seasonal events
Historic Status
Unrestored Palladian House
America’s earliest unrestored Palladian house
Annual Events
Deck the Hall Oyster Roast
Seasonal concerts and workshops
Secure tickets for signature tours, workshops, and seasonal events — explore Charleston history with expert interpreters and limited-capacity experiences.
Bring Layers for Changing Temperatures
Evenings can be cool especially after sunset, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the tour.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The tour involves walking over uneven plantation grounds; supportive footwear will help you enjoy the experience fully.
Carry a Flashlight or Headlamp
A small flashlight helps navigate dimmer areas safely without disturbing the natural ambiance.
Respect Wildlife and Historic Structures
Keep noise to a minimum and avoid touching any artifacts or plants to preserve the site and its inhabitants.
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust comfort as temperatures drop during the tour.
fall
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides support and protection on uneven terrain.
Insect Repellent
Helps keep mosquitoes and bugs at bay during warm-weather tours.
summer
Portable Flashlight or Headlamp
Ensures safe navigation as twilight progresses into night.