Quick Details
Starting from
Adult
Ages 12+
$ 80
Child
Ages 4-11
$ 45
Visit America’s First Public Gardens
Welcome to the South, y’all! Get the true Lowcountry experience with Adventure Sightseeing on a guided Magnolia Plantation and Gardens Tour, and experience of one of America’s first tourist attractions and America’s first public gardens.
Dating from 1676 and open to the public since 1870, this plantation and its world-famous gardens have been owned by the Drayton family for 12 generations.
On this 4.5-hour, half-day tour:
- Enjoy a guided walk through America’s last large-scale Romantic garden.
- Experience history on a 45-minute narrated nature tram ride through the Audubon swamp gardens.
- See wildlife such as alligators, egrets, herons, and turtles on the nearly 600-acre plantation.
- Go back in time with a 30-minute tour of the Magnolia Plantation Home.
- Round-trip transportation in our climate controlled buses and all gate fees are included in the price of the tour!
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Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Advance purchase is highly recommended and tours often sell out in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance. Tickets can be purchased with Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.
What’s not included?
If you wish to purchase food, souvenirs, or drinks while at Magnolia, the cost of those items is not included in the tour price. Gratuities are not included, nor required, but always appreciated for a job well done!
Is there a cancellation policy?
Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.
What if it rains?
The plantation tour will still go out rain or shine! A good portion of the day is spent outdoors, so please dress accordingly.
What kind of vehicle will we be traveling in?
You will be traveling on a 25-passenger climate-controlled bus or in a 15-passenger climate-controlled van. The vehicle we use for this tour varies.
Are children allowed? What type of ticket should I buy?
Yes, and there is a reduced price for children’s tickets. While we welcome children of all ages on the tour, the tour is not recommended for small children. We have reduced price tickets for children ages 4 to 11. Children ages 3 and younger can come for free with an accompanying adult ticket and must sit on their parent’s lap.
Can I bring food or beverages?
While you cannot eat or drink on our vehicles, we suggest packing snacks or a light lunch along to eat while at the plantation.
Is lunch included in the tour?
Lunch is NOT included in the tour, and the tour is tightly scheduled once you arrive at the plantation. Before you depart the plantation, there is a short window of time at the end of the guided tours to purchase food at the Magnolia Plantation snack bar. It can take them a long time to prepare the food during their busy season! We suggest eating a big breakfast before you depart in the morning, and bringing light snacks or a small lunch to enjoy at the plantation. Keep in mind, you cannot eat or drink while on the vehicle, only when you arrive to the plantation. You will arrive back at the Visitors Center at approximately 2:45 p.m.
Do you run year-round?
Yes, we operate tours seven days a week year-round except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Seasonal hours apply, so please check our calendar for the most up-to-date schedule information.
Is the vehicle air conditioned?
Yes, the vehicle is air conditioned.
Is the tour guided?
Yes, the plantation tour is guided.
Is there a restroom on the tour vehicle?
No, but restrooms are located at the meeting location and at Magnolia Plantation. We highly recommend using the bathrooms at the starting location before the tour.
Can I carry luggage or other large items on the tour vehicle?
No. We do not have space for large items such as luggage, wheelchairs, or strollers. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Is there assigned seating?
No, the seats are on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are traveling with a large group, you may want to arrive 15 – 20 minutes prior to departure.
How should I dress for the tour?
Check the forecast. A good portion of the day is spent outdoors, so please dress accordingly. We definitely suggest that comfortable walking shoes are part of your ensemble!
Is the tour vehicle handicap accessible?
At present, we cannot accommodate wheelchairs, but we can accommodate those with limited mobility if they can be assisted by a companion.
Will locals enjoy the tour, or is it mostly for tourists?
Absolutely! Whether you are looking for a way to entertain out-of-town guests, have a team-building exercise, just want to see the plantation without having to drive, or you just want to learn more about the Magnolia Plantation, this is the tour for you!
Will we be able to purchase souvenirs or shop during the tour?
Adventure Sightseeing T-shirts are available through our sister company, Charleston Harbor Tours. There is a gift shop located at the Charleston Maritime Center with other various items.
Are pets allowed?
No. Service animals are allowed, however.
Does the tour start and end in the same place?
The tour starts and ends at the same location.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is parking at the Visitor’s Center at the surface lot or in the parking garage next door. There is a fee of $2 per hour.
Are gratuities included?
Gratuities are not included in the ticket price. While not required, gratuities are accepted and always appreciated by the tour guides.
Is smoking allowed on the tour?
No, smoking is not allowed.
Is the tour only offered in English?
Yes, the tour is only offered in English.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes! We can accommodate a variety of special requests. Please reach out to our sales department at 843-722-1112 or sales@adventuresightseeing.com