Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

With a garden straight out of a romantic novel, Magnolia is at the top of the list if you want to experience the wealth and beauty of southern living.

A Garden of Surprises 

Around every corner of the garden is something different to see. You could spend an entire day just wandering through the gardens. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens has several tours you could go on. If you do have all day, these are worthwhile but be aware that each tour costs extra.  If you only have a half day we recommend just walking through the garden. Although this sounds simple, get ready to do some serious strolling. The gardens are huge and there are several paths to take at every turn. Honestly, if you can walk every trail, props to you, that is some serious mileage. Fear not though because you will be given a map at the entrance. The main attractions are labeled on the map so if you want to just see the 20+ highlights follow the map in numerical order. But wandering off occasionally to the enjoy the flowers in solitude isn’t a bad way to go either.

None of us have a green thumb so we can’t tell you much about the flowers other than they are pretty. That’s usually all people care about and if you’re like most people then go in the Springtime (March-May) to see all the flowers in bloom. Admission to just the garden is only $15/person so this is a big bang for your buck.

Your Being Followed…By Colorful Birds?

Peacocks make great photography subjects but get a little feisty if they feel cornered. They are free roaming throughout the gardens so if you get that eerie feeling like your being followed check behind you for these colorful birds.

Although its best to let the animals be if you do want to get up close and personal there is a petting zoo worth checking out. This is a penned area but you and the animals are walking freely. You can pet Goats, Deer, Ponies, Peacocks, Squirrels and other creatures native to the area. Don’t bring in any food! Unless you want a pack of overly curious doe following you the whole time.

Bridges to Nowhere

Magnolia Plantation is famous for it’s White Bridge. It is the backdrop to almost every wedding photo in South Carolina. Alright, that may be an exaggeration but once you lay eyes on it you will understand. This is your postcard shot but it isn’t the only picturesque bridge on the grounds.

There are several other bridges that are worthy of admiration. If you follow the map mentioned earlier you will cross over most of them. But some bridges you don’t cross simply because they don’t actually lead to anywhere. Nonetheless, they are pretty to look at.

Gators

At the far end of the gardens is an observation deck. This 3-story watchtower lets you look out over all the trees towards the adjacent waters. From here it is easy to spot large alligators resting in the mud. It is worth the stair climb, trust me.

Overall

There is never-ending exploration at Magnolia Plantation, but your time is best spent admiring the gardens, watching the wildlife and taking in the southern charm.

Website: Magnolia Plantation

Address For Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414

If you are looking for a more historical approach to the plantations check out Boone Hall Plantation!

Chad Albright

Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.