Best Plantations to tour...savannah vs charleston

Question

We are headed on a short trip from Charleston to Savannah to St Augustine and would love to visit one or two plantations. What would be your top 2 choices between those three cities? Interested in the history and beauty. Thank you

Answer

Plantations in the Lowcountry are an essential part of the history and beauty of the Charleston, Savannah, and St. Augustine areas, offering a unique look into the region's history, architecture, and landscape. Since you're visiting Charleston, Savannah, and St. Augustine, here are my top two recommendations for plantation tours that highlight both history and natural beauty:

1. Middleton Place (Charleston, SC): Middleton Place is one of the most iconic plantations in the Charleston area. It's famous for its stunning gardens, which are the oldest landscaped gardens in the United States. The plantation offers a deep dive into history, showcasing both the beauty of the property and the complex history of slavery and the antebellum South. The house itself is a well-preserved example of the time period, and the site includes exhibits on the lives of the enslaved people who worked the land. The gardens are a perfect place to stroll, and the live demonstrations and guided tours offer rich historical context.

History & Beauty: Known for its well-preserved gardens and the history of the Middleton family, the plantation provides a powerful look at Southern history and is a beautiful place to explore.
Highlights: The gardens, the plantation house, the horse-drawn carriage tours, and the history of the enslaved people who lived and worked on the plantation.

2. Wormsloe Historic Site (Savannah, GA): Wormsloe is one of the most beautiful plantations in the Savannah area, with its stunning avenue of live oak trees creating one of the most iconic images of the South. It’s a bit different from the traditional plantation tour because the focus here is on the colonial history of Georgia. The site includes the ruins of the Wormsloe estate, which was originally established by Noble Jones, one of the colony’s first settlers. The historic site offers a more laid-back experience, with trails through the forest, interactive exhibits, and beautiful views of the landscape. While the history of slavery is touched on, the main focus is on the early colonial history of Georgia.

History & Beauty: Known for its beautiful avenue of oaks and historic ruins, Wormsloe gives a more scenic, nature-focused experience with a glimpse into early colonial life.
Highlights: The oak-lined avenue, ruins of the plantation house, trails, and the history of Georgia’s founding and the role of Noble Jones in the early years of the colony.

Other Notable Plantations: While Middleton Place and Wormsloe are my top picks for a combination of history and beauty, there are other great plantations in the region worth considering if you have time:

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens (Charleston, SC): Another beautiful plantation in Charleston with famous gardens, wildlife tours, and a rich history of the enslaved community.
Boone Hall Plantation (Charleston, SC): Famous for its "Avenue of Oaks" and a more detailed look at the role of enslaved people on the plantation.
St. Augustine's Tolomato Cemetery and the Ximenez-Fatio House: Although not a plantation, St. Augustine offers some fascinating history related to early colonial life in Florida, if you have time during your trip.

Each of these plantations provides a unique perspective on history, beauty, and the culture of the South, making them all excellent choices for your trip. Enjoy your visit, and be sure to take in the stunning scenery and rich history of each site!

Best Plantations to tour...savannah vs charleston

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