A Guide to Historic Sites in South Carolina

South Carolina is a state steeped in history, from its colonial beginnings to the Civil War that changed its landscape forever. Visitors to the Palmetto State are guaranteed to find a wealth of interesting sites and attractions to explore, including some of America’s most iconic historic sites. From old plantations to war memorials, here is a comprehensive guide to the most interesting and significant historical sites in South Carolina.

Charleston Historic District

The Charleston Historic District is the oldest neighborhood in Charleston, and it is one of the most well-preserved colonial-era neighborhoods in the United States. Established in 1783, the district features a mix of Georgian and Federal style architecture, along with cobblestone streets and gas lamps. It is home to some of the city’s most significant sites, such as the Old Slave Mart Museum, the Charleston Museum, and the Aiken-Rhett House. Visitors can tour the district on foot or by horse-drawn carriage, and can experience the culture and history of the city’s earliest days.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic plantation located in Charleston. Founded in 1676, the plantation is one of the oldest in the state, and has been managed by the same family for more than 350 years. Visitors to the plantation can explore the grounds and its gardens, which are filled with centuries-old live oaks, gardens of camellias, azaleas, and other flowers, and a nature trail. The plantation also houses an antebellum mansion, which has been preserved in its original state, and offers tours and educational programs year round.

Fort Sumter National Monument

Fort Sumter is one of the most iconic sites related to the Civil War. Located in Charleston Harbor, the fort was the site of the first shots of the war, which began on April 12, 1861. Today, the fort is owned by the National Park Service and is open to the public. Visitors can tour the fort and its grounds, and learn more about the events that led to the start of the Civil War. There is also a museum and a bookstore on site, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and books about the fort and its history.

Middleton Place

Middleton Place is a historic plantation located in Charleston. Established in 1741, the plantation was home to the Middleton family, who were some of the most influential people in the state. Today, the plantation is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and it is open to the public. Visitors can explore the grounds, which are filled with centuries-old live oaks and gardens, and tour the Middleton House, which is filled with antiques and art. The plantation also offers educational programs and events year round.

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park is located in central South Carolina, and it is home to the largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including some rare and endangered species, and visitors can explore the park on foot, by canoe, or by kayak. The park also offers educational programs and events year round, and visitors can learn more about the area’s history and environment.

Cowpens National Battlefield

Cowpens National Battlefield is located in Spartanburg County, and it is one of the most significant sites related to the Revolutionary War. The site was the site of a major battle between the American and British forces in 1781, and it is the only site in South Carolina to be named a National Historic Landmark. Visitors to the site can explore the grounds and learn more about the battle, as well as the history of the area. There is also a museum and a bookstore on site, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and books about the area’s history.

Kings Mountain National Military Park

Kings Mountain National Military Park is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it is one of the most significant sites related to the Revolutionary War. The park is home to the site of a major battle between the American and British forces in 1780, and it is the only site in South Carolina to be named a National Historic Landmark. Visitors to the park can explore the grounds and learn more about the battle, as well as the history of the area. There is also a museum and a bookstore on site, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and books about the area’s history.

Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site

The Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site is located in Summerville, and it is the site of an abandoned colonial village. Established in 1697, the village was abandoned by its residents in 1776 due to the encroaching British forces during the Revolutionary War. Today, the site is owned by the South Carolina State Park Service, and visitors can explore the grounds, which are filled with centuries-old live oaks and gardens, as well as the ruins of the original village. There is also a museum and a bookstore on site, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and books about the area’s history.

Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park is located in Murrells Inlet, and it is one of the most scenic parks in the state. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including some rare and endangered species, and visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or by boat. There is also a museum and a bookstore on site, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and books about the area’s history. The park also features a nature center, which offers educational programs and events year round.

Cypress Gardens

Cypress Gardens is located in Monck’s Corner, and it is home to one of the most beautiful gardens in the state. The garden is filled with centuries-old live oaks and gardens, and visitors can explore the grounds on foot or by boat. There is also a museum and a bookstore on site, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and books about the area’s history. The garden also offers educational programs and events year round, and visitors can learn more about the area’s flora and fauna.

The Market at Grelen

The Market at Grelen is located in Somerset, and it is the site of a former plantation. Established in 1740, the plantation was home to the Grelen family, who were some of the most influential people in the state. Today, the plantation is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and it is open to the public. Visitors can explore the grounds, which are filled with centuries-old live oaks and gardens, and tour the Grelen House, which is filled with antiques and art. The plantation also offers educational programs and events year round.

Edisto Island Historic District

The Edisto Island Historic District is located in Edisto Island, and it is one of the most well-preserved colonial-era neighborhoods in the United States. Established in 1675, the district features a mix of Georgian and Federal style architecture, along with cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and many of the original houses. Visitors can tour the district on foot or by horse-drawn carriage, and can experience the culture and history of the area’s earliest days. There is also a museum and a bookstore on site, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and books about the area’s history.

South Carolina is filled with historic sites and attractions that are sure to delight and educate visitors of all ages. From old plantations to war memorials, there is something for everyone to explore in the Palmetto State. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, this comprehensive guide to the most interesting and significant historic sites in South Carolina is sure to provide you with plenty of ideas for your next adventure.