See the oldest American plantation house still open to public--Drayton Hall--a typical Palladian style edifice, inspired by ancient Greek and Roman temples. It has remained in close-to-original condition, since the mid-18th century when it was built. Hear about seven generations of Draytons who lived on the property, about their servants, and about slavery. The teapots they used and the marble-topped tables are still there. So are the copper slave tags. Walk through the Victorian gardens and see the reflection pond. Take a guided tour, and have a camera ready. Use our Charleston online road trip planner to arrange your visit to Drayton Hall and other attractions in Charleston.
Create a full itinerary - for free!
Drayton Hall reviews
-
Over the years, I've toured at least half a dozen historic plantations, if not more, all in a restored state depicting life during the pre- Civil War era. This was probably my favorite. Rather than.... more
Over the years, I've toured at least half a dozen historic plantations, if not more, all in a restored state depicting life during the pre- Civil War era. This was probably my favorite. Rather than.... more »
-
This plantation is the only original standing plantation from before the Civil War. The audio tour alows you to go at your own pace and explains the history of the family and the house...
This plantation is the only original standing plantation from before the Civil War. The audio tour alows you to go at your own pace and explains the history of the family and the house... more »
-
My husband and I had a day to spend in Charleston, and we checked out this plantation/museum. We did a self guided walking tour with audio on our phone, however curators were waiting in certain areas to answer any questions we had. I unfortunately don't remember their names but the two ladies we encountered were so friendly and knowledgeable about the property and history of the Drayton family. Constant construction is happening so don't be surprised if you cannot see everything (we were unable to see the upstairs). The exterior of this property is gorgeous with historic oak trees and path to the Ashley river.
-
Beautiful plantation home with interesting history. We did not do the audio tour but explored the space on our own. The details on the home are amazing. The craftsmanship can’t be found today. It was interesting to see the graffiti from 1874. The staff is very attentive and helpful. They are currently working to put supports in so there is construction equipment on the ground floor.
Plan your trip to Charleston
best routes and schedules
Popular things to do in Charleston
Side trips from Charleston
Hidden gems in Charleston
Museums in Charleston
Historic Sites in Charleston
Nearby attractions in Charleston
Trips in Drayton Hall by other users
5 days in Charleston
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Photography Tours
Fort Sumter National Monument
29 days in Charleston
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Shem Creek Park
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
10 days in Charleston
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Dolphin & Whale Watching
Photography Tours
Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours
60 days in United States
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Corolla
Washington DC
Baltimore
60 days in East Coast of USA, East End & East Tennessee
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
New York City
Boston
East End
12 days in Georgia, South Carolina & Greensboro
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Atlanta
Savannah
Charleston