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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Washington DC to Savannah?
The direct drive from Washington DC to Savannah is 581 mi (935 km), and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 49 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Washington DC to Savannah, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Charleston, Richmond, Raleigh, Durham, Columbia, Beaufort, Fredericksburg, Fayetteville, and North Charleston, as well as top places to visit like Manassas National Battlefield Park and National Museum of the Marine Corps, or the ever-popular Drum Point Lighthouse.
The top cities between Washington DC and Savannah are Charleston, Richmond, Raleigh, Durham, Columbia, Beaufort, Fredericksburg, Fayetteville, and North Charleston. Charleston is the most popular city on the route. It's 8 hours from Washington DC and 2 hours from Savannah.
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Fredericksburg
Mentioned on
Fredericksburg, located in Virginia along the Rappahannock River, is a city steeped in colonial and Civil War history. The area is home to the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, which encompasses four battlefields including Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania Court House. Additionally, the park features the Fredericksburg National Cemetery where thousands of Union soldiers are laid to rest.
5% as popular as Charleston
7 minutes off the main route, 11% of way to Savannah
Richmond, one of the earliest major cities in America and the capital of Virginia, holds significant historical importance. St. John's Church in Richmond witnessed Patrick Henry’s famous “Give me liberty or give me death” speech that played a key role in starting the Revolutionary War. The Court End neighborhood now houses a museum which was once home to Confederate President Jefferson Davis during the Civil War. This area is renowned for its Federal-style mansions and is an attractive tourist destination for history enthusiasts.
29% as popular as Charleston
2 minutes off the main route, 19% of way to Savannah
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Durham is located in the northern part of North Carolina and forms an integral part of the Research Triangle Region. The area is renowned for its technology firms and academic establishments. Duke University, situated within Durham, boasts two prominent attractions- the Duke Chapel, built-in neo-Gothic style, and the Nasher Museum of Art showcasing pieces by contemporary artists such as Christian Marclay and Ai Weiwei.
14% as popular as Charleston
16 minutes off the main route, 43% of way to Savannah
The city of Raleigh, located in North Carolina, is recognized for its educational institutions, such as North Carolina State University. The Research Triangle area surrounding Raleigh, Chapel Hill and Durham is renowned for its various technology and academic organizations. The North Carolina State Capitol is a historic building with Greek Revival architecture from the 1800s. Its rotunda features a statue of George Washington dressed in the attire of a Roman commander.
20% as popular as Charleston
14 minutes off the main route, 46% of way to Savannah
Fayetteville, located in North Carolina, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. The Airborne and Special Operations Museum offers an immersive experience into U.S. Army history with its motion simulator. Visitors can explore the diverse plant species at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, including a dedicated children's garden.
3% as popular as Charleston
3 minutes off the main route, 55% of way to Savannah
I'll never travel to Savannah without this trip planner again
Columbia, the largest city in South Carolina, serves as the state's capital. The area boasts a number of notable attractions including the South Carolina State House, which is characterized by its Greek Revival architecture and accompanied by an array of monuments. For those interested in wildlife and nature, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden offers expansive animal enclosures as well as stunning botanical gardens.
12% as popular as Charleston
34 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Savannah
North Charleston, located in South Carolina, is a vibrant city with a population of over 114,000 people. It is the third-most populous city in the state and offers a diverse range of activities for residents and visitors alike. One popular spot is Edmunds Oast Brewing Co., where sports enthusiasts can enjoy watching various games on TV while soaking up the energetic atmosphere.
3% as popular as Charleston
42 minutes off the main route, 77% of way to Savannah
Charleston, a seaport in South Carolina that was established in 1670, is characterized by its paved streets, horse-drawn carriages and colorful antebellum homes, particularly in the sophisticated French Quarter and Battery areas. The Battery walkway and Waterfront Park both provide views of Charleston Harbor, while Fort Sumter - a federal fortress where the initial shots of the Civil War were fired - is located on the opposite shore.
Most popular city on this route
49 minutes off the main route, 77% of way to Savannah
Beaufort, located on Port Royal Island in South Carolina, is a charming city renowned for its collection of antebellum mansions, particularly in the downtown historic district. One of the most notable landmarks is the John Mark Verdier House Museum, an elegant Federal-style mansion from the early 1800s showcasing period furniture and exhibits detailing local history. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the Beaufort River and Woods Memorial Bridge from Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.
9% as popular as Charleston
22 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Savannah
Best stops along Washington DC to Savannah drive
The top stops along the way from Washington DC to Savannah (with short detours) are Charleston City Market, Historic Jamestowne, and Middleton Place. Other popular stops include Shelter Cove Community Park, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, and Joe Riley Waterfront Park.
Very cool to see a piece of history in such a great preserved state. It’s like taking a step back in time when you enter the lighthouse. Very neat and very educational.
Helen B — Google review
I love this lighthouse. You actually get to see where they lived! I am a big lighthouse person and this one was a highlight for me as well as the Calvert maritime museum. A must see!
Lili Schachter — Google review
Loving this area. It is a real peaceful place to live.
Meet Miss Sallyy — Google review
I have been here a couple of times. The tour is very informative and the views are great. The museum is fantastic. If you can take advantage of the boat tour and see the area from the water. Great places to eat all around.
Glen Maylone — Google review
Came to visit Solomons Island for my first time in 52 years! I was not disappointed and the CMM and the lighthouse turned out to be the unsung hero of the visit. Take the time if you're in Solomons to visit this landmark. You'll be glad you did!
Mike Cavey — Google review
I went to the museum and lighthouse with my mom while she was in town visiting. She couldn't climb the steep stairs into the lighthouse but the docent was very nice and told he all about it while I went up and looked around. It was surprisingly big and quite livable inside! I really enjoyed the museum and lighthouse. We went to the lotus cafe for lunch and came back for the boat tour that departs next to the light house. Highly recommend!
Anica Landreneau — Google review
Nice place to visit and learn about the lighthouse and people who watched over it. Surprised at how roomy the place felt.
John Espinosa — Google review
This is a really cool historic lighthouse that was relocated to the adjacent museum. Not currently in use. It has been completely renovated and restored to how it would have looked when in-use 100 years ago. You can climb all the way up the stairs to see the light lenses - a 4th order Fresnel lens. Note - entry to the lighthouse is only accessible through the Marine Museum, which costs $11 to enter.
Joel Keralis — Google review
Cool place even if you have mobility issues. Staff are pretty sharp too . If you go be sure to explore and find the Ark.
Le Ann Goodman — Google review
Such a cool museum . The lighthouse tour is super cool.
Eagles Fan — Google review
Fun for the whole family, otters, fish, jellyfish, and be sure to tour the Light house
William Sammons — Google review
Lots to see and do here. The Lighthouse is part of the Calvert Maritime Museum. One low price gets you into everything. There are exhibits on ships as well as Marine Life - make sure to stop by the Discovery room to see the Rays and Skates!
You can go inside the Lighthouse, but the steps may not be for everyone and the opening to get to the 2nd floor is a bit narrow.
You can also purchase tickets for a boat ride, but space is limited and there are only 1 or 2 rides most days. The Museum is open slightly longer than the Lighthouse.
Laura Inglis — Google review
A very nice museum!
J Michael Galway — Google review
4.8
(217)
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4.5
(435)
14150 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688, USA
Manassas National Battlefield Park, also known as Bull Run, is a historical site where significant battles between the Confederates and Union occurred during the Civil War. It was won by the Confederacy in 1861 and 1862. The park features fields marking these victories and a statue of Thomas Stonewall Jackson. There are ranger tours available at the Robinson farm which provide intriguing information about the area's history.
I went there February 19 2022. The wind was blowing about 25 mph and temperatures of 40 degrees. The ranger tour of the Robinson farm was intriguing. The statue of Thomas Stonewall Jackson was very impressive. This place has the best information video I have ever seen at a national park. They have a good junior ranger program but no longer have a Bark Ranger for dogs. I wish it had been a little warmer
Moving on with Old Man River Old man river — Google review
This was such a great way to learn about history. We did the tour guide with the Park Ranger and it was great. She lead us through what happened. The tour was about 45 minutes long. It is a great place to bring children. Since it is outdoors our boys could explore. The museum was very well done. There is also an interactive map that gives a layout of the battle.
Janie Bowerbank — Google review
Loved it! I am NOT a Civil War buff but I did enjoy the visit. They have a great film that is shown hourly. We also downloaded the audio and video clips from the park’s app. That helped to explain what we were seeing as we toured the battlefield.
Jeffrey Hyde — Google review
I had an enjoyable experience exploring the battlefield on a Monday in early March. I took the walking tour with the ranger, I don’t remember his name but he was very knowledgeable and a great story teller. There was plenty of parking. Restrooms in the visitors center. I watched the movie after the walking tour. I drove to the stone bridge and the unfinished railroad sites because I was running out of time. You could definitely spend an entire day here.
Miss Val — Google review
This was a visit that brought a lot of history to life. To have been at the Battlefield Park at the end of September 2023, with the heavy clouds, was really a rich experience. I also purchased a two books from the book store, one of which is slave narratives.
Jennyfer Ambe — Google review
I've come here multiple times to hike- it never fails to amuse me. Full of rich history everywhere. There are 2 places to park: one that is placed in the middle and there is the main parking. I like that the huge chunk of the area is preserved. You'll always find something new. There are various trails to choose from.
Litzy Aguilar — Google review
Fascinating testament to the stupidity of war. Many young men died on this field because some adults wanted to own people.
Having said that, the artifacts on display give one a better understanding of the battles.
Ricardo Munoz — Google review
Beautiful and underrated. Great museum in the visitors center with a fantastic presentation on the battle complete with lights. Miles of open land and places to walk.
Serena Rice — Google review
Manassas Battlefield Park is beautiful maintained. The Visitor Center is excellent. Highly recommend the movie prior to touring the Battlefield. Very clean restrooms. The gift shop has an excellent variety of books. Recommend doing the driving tour if this is your first visit. Recommend a visit to Mathew Hill to see the two naval 12 pound howitzers that was used during the battle.
Sharon Mcfarland — Google review
Really beautiful place, especially considering the history here. It's amazing that something so brutal and bloody could happen at such a beautiful place.
I'm a fan of history, from all periods and places. This place has a very informative museum; as well as buildings from the period, period cannons, a cemetery, and several monuments dedicated to the battle.
This place is kept up really well, and because it's spread out over so many acres you don't have to worry about it being too crowded. I hope it's around for many years to come so that it can teach people about its' history.
Beverly Patrick — Google review
The battlefield was beautiful! The park rangers and the staff were so friendly and knowledgeable. My only con was that the driving tour was not as easy for me to follow as it is in Gettysburg. But I would definitely recommend and return.
Carissa — Google review
It was ok. Probably the most interesting part was the museum at the visitor center. There is one semi-trail walk, all in the sun, that goes around a field. One confederate statue, some cool cannons and a wooden house. Around 40 parking spots.
Vlad Gorshkov — Google review
We took the grand kids to explore the battlefield. The guided tour was terrific. The ranger was enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the battle, especially the context (our tour covered the 1st Battle of Bull Run). The visitor center has a great museum and the movie about the battles was extremely well done. I would caution that the scenes are very graphic and parents may want to discuss the movie before/after if your kids are 14 and younger.
Dan Noble — Google review
We walked the 5.2 mile First Battle of Manassas Trail Loop. On the AllTrails app, it suggests the average walk time is 2 hours. Allot more time to stop and read the informative signs at the waypoints. It makes the trip more robust when you can understand what things are and the battles that were fought in the very place you are standing. The trail is well maintained, there are shortcuts along the way if you choose not to do the full loop, the bridge crossing Bull Run is out so we crossed through the water on rocks, and about half is in the woods (shaded) while the rest is out in the open. Be aware: the small parking lot was almost full when we arrived.
Heather Burrell — Google review
Interesting, historically accurate and moving. Gazing upon the area you can feel the spirit, the camaraderie and the dedication of the brave soldiers who lost their lives fighting for freedom.
Cheyanne Gentry — Google review
This is a nice simple park to spend time at. There's a lot of history associated with it and they play a movie in the visitor center. The staff is friendly and there's a big parking lot. I wouldn't go out of my way to come here but if you're in the area, it's certainly worth a visit. Would recommend!
Arnav Agarwal — Google review
museum with movie at every hour
animated map of the battleground inside
free guided 45 min tour.
Ask for starting time ( today 2pm )
Karlpeter Schroeder — Google review
Took the kids and got there early, did the educational film (45 min) in the visitor center, stamped passports etc and did the first Manassas loop. Took us about 2 hours (with kids) to do 4.5 miles so not bad. So much to see along the way, and the stone house was open so we got a nice little break to look around, talk to the rangers, and get their ranger pins.
The National Museum of the Marine Corps is a modern facility located near Marine Corps Base Quantico, showcasing the rich history of the military branch. With an impressive glass atrium and over 118,000 square feet of space, visitors can explore exhibits that honor those who have served and sacrificed for their country. The museum also hosts retirement ceremonies for Marines who have dedicated over 24 years to their service.
I loved the life-size displays. They had a multitude of rooms displaying the history of the Marines from the revolutionary War to the present. A couple of theaters gave you a feel for the basic training experience. The water color art and s ulptures were awesome.
Kathleen Coleman — Google review
Beautiful facility all around. Depend on it taking you a couple of hours inside and probably nearly that long outside. The guides within the museum are very helpful and enthusiastic about their jobs. Take the walk and check out the outside monuments as well. You won’t be disappointed. And don’t miss Chesty!
BcOneSeven — Google review
Loved this museum! Didn't realize how big it was from the outside until I went in. Expect to spend several hours there. They have a restaurant and bar inside and a great walking trail outside. Will definitely be back!
A Brooks — Google review
One of the best museums I have visited so far, which was a pleasant surprise. The layout makes sense and will take you through the eras the Marine Corps has served our nation. Each exhibit is chock full of valuable information and amazing artifacts. Children will especially love the tanks, planes, helicopters, and other military vehicles they have on display here. There’s even two more sections that will be opening within the next year, so definitely stop by if you’re in the area or enjoy military memorabilia.
Justin Anderson — Google review
All staff made you feel welcome. It's always spotless throughout the building. Great variety of gifts in the shop. All the displays and exhibits are so amazing. They make you feel like you're there.
Wendy E — Google review
My son retired from the USMC after serving his country for more than 24 years. His retirement ceremony was held at the USMC museum. It was like being in the presence of greatness... looking around the museum and then the way the ceremony is carried out is simply fantastic. You can't help but think of all the men and women that have retired before and the ones to come later. That leads to thoughts of the ones that didn't make it home. There are so many that served but didn't make a career of it... but they are also very important.
Robin R — Google review
Price: Free
Duration: 1-3hours
Parking: ample free parking
An architecturally beautiful building filled with a high quality Museum dedicated to the United States Marine corps. The main lobby is filled with military equipment and realistic military displays. The museum exhibits line the outer rim of the lobby. Highly recommend starting at the beginning here sign and then working your way around the circle so that it flows in chronological order.
If you're interested in the military or have close family that have served in the Marine corps you could likely spend many hours in the museum. If you're just stopping by 1:00 to 3 hours or likely to be sufficient. Highly recommend at least walking through every single exhibit just to see the fantastic displays.
Unfortunately the war on terrorism and the modern day Marine corps exhibit was closed when we visited in November 2022
Lou Fegans — Google review
Amazing! I'm not a Marine, or even military for that matter, although I fully appreciate the sacrifices that have been made. But this museum is a must see for everyone. Extremely well done exhibits done in multiple different ways. Some very powerful with the voices of people who were in the battles. Walk into rooms with recreations of battle voices and sounds with explosions coming from every direction. You can walk through into an amphibious landing vehicle or a troop helicopter. And so much more. The place is huge and very modern. Take the kids, it's really not graphic or scary but drives the message home. And it's free. Don't miss this one!
charlie sliwoski — Google review
Plan to spend the day! So much to see, read, and experience (inside and out), you'll probably still have to plan more visits to take it all in. There is the Tun Tavern and a place for burgers to keep you going! And a gift shop with all things Marine.
This museum is an amazing tribute honoring the United States Marine Corps. A must-see.
Kerry Ferguson — Google review
I go every year for the Marine Corps birthday on Nov. 10th with some of my brothers. It's definitely the best museum I've ever been to. There is plenty of history and things to read about. Tons of real artifacts, and they use real people to model their mannequins. I'm very proud of this museum. A must-see for everyone.
jasmine Torres — Google review
The exhibits were well done. You can tell the work that was put into it. I thought the combat environments were great especially for others to get a glimpse into the chaos of war. I was thinking that maybe there would be a warning on the glass, for those with PTSD or kids...but I think it's okay without the warning...I mean, this is what Marines do. I am a big fan of art and I wish there was a way that we could buy original works of the combat artists from the gallery. Please continue to have Marine Corps art displayed. I live it. My favorite thing in the entire museum was the sculpture of the Marine Rifleman with different Marine Corps things coming out of its body. Amazing museum. I intend to make a donation to the museum.
Dan B — Google review
Very informative museum with great exhibits. You could spend an hour there briefly understanding the history or you could spend many hours there reading and seeing everything. Some exhibits are more immersive with auditory and visual aids to help you understand the environment or the situation. Highly recommend.
Cinara — Google review
Amazing museum with lots of exhibits on the history of the US Marines. There is a lot to check out. You can watch a movie about the Marines and how they serve us. There is also a lot of tanks and airplanes. I like how each exhibit is organized into sections about a certain war. It is very clean and the I especially like the architecture of the museum. It’s very nice how the admission is free and there is so much to see here. There is a new exhibit opening soon about the Iraq war and I will definitely come back and check it out once it’s open. In my opinion this museum is overlooked and you should definitely go check it out if you are in the DC area!
Kiet TT — Google review
It's amazing even though there were a lot of people it didn't feel crowded walk the grounds it's something to see
Tamara Myers — Google review
Visited with my Family, however they were closed because of water shortage. We met a lovely sheriff with 35 years of service.
We went and try entry on the 6th of August and what a good time we had!
Kinds and the whole family had a great time.
Entry is free and good are good priced.
If you are in the area please visit this, you will not regret it.
William Bastemeyer — Google review
Wonderful museum! My 5 yr old son absolutely loved it and me being a son of a Marine and a history buff I was very pleased with the displays, the layout of the museum and can’t wait for its completion. Plus the outdoor walking paths were peaceful and beautiful and I’m proud to say my father will have a brick honoring him alongside all the other heroes.
Robert Laing — Google review
Excellent museum, the guides were eager to share their knowledge with those in attendance but weren't pushy about it. The displays are layed out in a nice chronological order of the various time periods that have changed the Marines, however, each area is set off from a main corridor so you can go to a specific era if you want.
JD Zakerski — Google review
Purchased a brick for my Dad and presented the certificate to him several years ago. Dad passed in 2018, and this was the first time we had the opportunity to visit. The entire walk to locate his brick was humbling, like being at the National Cemetary in DC. Beautiful grounds and the museum requires more than one day to visit.
Donald Hofstetter — Google review
Such a cool place, we are navy but I think this place is amazing. They have so much information here and a gift shop that has tons of stuff to buy.
A restaurant that was pretty good we had fish and chips and a Greek salad. Everything was pretty good.
Tons of picture explains what stuff is
People there to help with questions it is a double floor establishment, but they have an elevator if you don’t want to climb the stairs or if you can climb the stairs. Love all the history here, we didn’t have time to walk the grounds but those looked amazing as well.
We will come back and walk the grounds on another day.
You must come check this place out and bring the kids.
Lisa piner — Google review
Gem of a museum tucked away off 95. Not busy at all even on a Saturday but a fantastic collection of objects, great history. Well worth a trip.
Matthew Briney — Google review
The museum was a pleasant surprise. It is a lot bigger than it appears, and the exhibits are very informative. The gift shop has excellent choices of memorabilia to remember your visit. There's only one suggestion allow ample time to enjoy your experience.
H Taylor — Google review
Family time at the museum, age levels from 5 to 80, we all enjoyed the many exhibits and story lines, not only of the wars but the history of the armament, uniforms, vehicles, and other equipment used. We watched the film on the history of the Marines, very well done, and Gene Hackman as the narrator was spot on. I'd encourage all to take a couple of hours and visit and learn or relearn about a part of American history.
Dina Poulin — Google review
Beautiful. Bring your tissues. I love the layout of the museum. Very informative everyone there was super friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. The We Are Marines movie was so incredibly well done. My kids especially liked the interactive part of the museum.
Loren Pacheco Miille — Google review
Our visit to The Mariners' Museum and Park in VA was fantastic! Plenty of parking, spotless restrooms, and captivating exhibits made for a memorable experience. The staff's friendliness and expertise enhanced our journey through maritime history. The park's picturesque surroundings provided a tranquil retreat. Notably, the entrance fee is unbelievably reasonable at just $1.00 – making it an absolute must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking an enjoyable day out. Ohh Yaa! The value for the experience is truly remarkable.
Awesome Nature — Google review
Free admission. Gift shop and restaurant called Tub Tavern inside. Huge museum with so much American history to see and learn about. Displays and artifacts from the founding of the Marine Corps to predent day.Exterior architectural asthetic is beautiful. Very well maintained. Staff was knowledgeable, courteous, and professional.
Heather L — Google review
Truly amazing museum to visit and free admission. Every one working in the museum was very friendly and informative. Very clean with gift shop and eateries.
Corey — Google review
Awesome, Inspiring, Inspirational, proud to be an American. This Nation Landmark exemplifies the dedication, sacrifice, the honor of our men and women who have given themselves the ultimate service to our Nation. Thank you to all that have served and especially to those that have given their lives to protect our freedoms.
Chuck Y — Google review
The museum is well structured. There's a theatre which displays a video of the Marine Corps history. Upon exiting, you begin the first exhibit. Each one takes you thru a specific time line of events that occurred during a war and conflict. The upper level has a display of artwork created by veterans. The outer grounds has multiple interpretive walking trails
Ranger Travels (Rangertravels.com) — Google review
Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park is a well-maintained historic site that offers visitors the opportunity to explore U.S Civil War battlefields, trails, and buildings. The park includes a cemetery and hosts living history events to educate visitors about significant locations of the battle. With informative signage around the facilities, navigating through this national park is made easy for visitors unfamiliar with Fredericksburg. Additionally, knowledgeable ranger staff are available to provide assistance and information to those who need it.
Excellent place to walk and get a little history education.
Angela Ziebarth — Google review
This is specifically for the visitor's center and Sunken Rd self guided tour at the Fredericksburg Battlefield.
The visitor's center is very nice. The exhibits have been kept up to date and are legible. There is a lot of great information, too.
The self guided trail is nice and easy going. We had a great time!
Manuela Daniels — Google review
Definitely a place to go for any history lover. Great visitor center and informative signs across the property.
Jeanne L — Google review
This place is a must see. You can stop by the gift shop and get the information on a guided tour via your phone. The house that is still standing on this battlefield still has bullet holes in it you can see on the outside and inside thru the windows. General Cobb was killed in this battle, the spot is marked with a stone.
Mindy Garland — Google review
Main center for most information on Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania battlefields. Visitors Center, located at site of Sunken Road/Stone Wall, has small museum with well-done short movie on Fredericksburg battle. National Cemetery sits atop adjacent Marye's Heights.
Mike — Google review
A lot of history, it's hard to believe that so many died here. A nice visitor center with movie presentations, you can take a self or ranger lead tour of the grands. The gift shop offers souvenirs and National Park passport stamps.
Kaja SWIEB — Google review
Very informative. Great place for a self guided walking tour.
Steven LeFaivre — Google review
Solid museum and gift shop too.
The grounds are definitely worth the walk. We live close by so I frequent here and love seeing the sunrise over the cemetery on Mary's Hill.
Matthew Fish — Google review
Visitor Center is always well stocked and have wonderful staff. No snack area but they sell bottled water. Restrooms are clean. The Innes house is interesting. It was not open today but I have been through it in the past. With the amount of damage from the battle is amazing it still stands and is in good shape.
teresa marcano — Google review
Great video showing how the battle played out. Loved all the exhibits. The greeters were very helpful
Tami Large — Google review
Wonderful park full of history! My family and I enjoyed the walking trail throughout, although unfortunately were there when the Visitor Center was still under construction. Luckily, the table set up outside and the signs around the park were more than enough to make up for it. Great for a quick day trip!
Evan B. — Google review
Long, paved road through the whole battlefield park. Seating area, replica cannons at Spotsylvania end. Multiple trails through the woods, beautiful walking in all seasons. Been coming here for a long time and we just love it!
Dana B. — Google review
The physical facility is well maintained and the staff very friendly and helpful. A 600yd walking tour includes a number of significant locations of the battle. Very convenient. The signage around the facility is extremely helpful to a visitor unfamiliar with Fredericksburg. But the Ranger staff are the real gems here.
Gary Connor — Google review
4.7
(1369)
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4.5
(557)
1013 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, USA
Kings Dominion is a large theme park featuring thrilling roller coasters, exciting rides, and even a water park. The park has recently upgraded its dining options, offering new culinary experiences for visitors to enjoy. It's known for its aggressive rides like the Intimidator 305 and offers a variety of attractions from different manufacturers. While the food is considered good, it can be pricey with an average meal cost of around $17.
An absolute delight to visit with an impressive arsenal of rides to choose between for chill riders and adrenaline junkies alike! Visited with my good friends all the way up from TN and we were thrilled with the turnout.
That Viking ship was legendary, and usually I just brag about coasters. Had to ride twice to rotate my brain back where it needed to be 😂
Danny Rader — Google review
First visit here, but have visited other Cedar Fair parks. It’s a beautiful park! Landscaping and shade are top notch. Planet Snoopy was a big hit for my son. The coasters and other rides were a huge hit for me. Overall I enjoyed it very much. However, I did find majority of staff to be rude and so were many of the guest clientele there on our visit. I encountered a lot of line cutting. I also found some issues with finding decent food/dining options that day due to a lot not being open. What options we did visit typically had rude customer service. With that stated, I still am a Cedar Fair parks fan and would both recommend this as well as utilize my pass to visit again. Video version is up on my channel on YouTube.
Hammocks to Coasters — Google review
Kings Dominion has been a great place to make memories for my brother and I for over 30 years. It is very clean for an amusement park and not too big either. The rides are fun, and the lines are very manageable. I highly recommend it!
Chad Stecker — Google review
Kings Dominion is a coaster lovers dream! Great atmosphere for a Cedar Fair park. We loved the unique parts of the park for example the mushrooms, jungle themed area, candy apple lane and Twisted Timbers. Definitely will be back soon once they add some more awesome rides. This park could use a Beast Style ride going out into the wilderness and some more unique dark rides.
Kyle Smith — Google review
Very Amazing place! I've been on all of the coasters and I'd just like to say they were were all superb! The food there was great and there were a bunch of fun things to do there. There employees were super nice and helpful on where to go if you needed to find a place. I've gotten year passes with my family for 2 years now and haven't regretted a bit of it!
Cal Robertson — Google review
Best park for close to MD. If you enjoy more aggressive rides this park has one of the most aggressive, Intimidator 305. They have a good variety of rides from different manufacturers.
The food is really good, but really expensive for food in general, average price $17 per meal. Water park is good and included with the ticket price. Got a season pass for the last 2 years. Good value for the single park and car parking. Only need to go 2x to make it worth the cost $100 for the basic season pass.
Monica M — Google review
We went to this park on Wednesday and it was the best decision. The park was busy but not as bad as it would be on the weekend. We were able to ride multiple times and enjoyed the water park Soak City for a long time. It was fun to play the games and my Love ended up winning a basketball. We got the cups that let us get refills which I highly recommend. It gets hot. Overall this was a fun day for us . We are thinking about getting season passes.
Balloon Artist — Google review
This is a great amusement park. There is so much to do here. Nice selection of rides for all ages. The park is beautiful! Very clean and well taken care of. Many performances throughout the park to keep you entertained if you need a break from rides. The food is good. The lines are not bad they more along quickly
Angie Kyle — Google review
Great place to hangout and enjoy. One day will not be enough on weekends as queues are lengthy and need to walk bit distances. Love ❤️ the thrilling rides. The beauty is toddlers and kids have separate zone for pool and rides, they don’t miss anything. We have now opted for annual pass and trying to cover everything slowly. Outside food is allowed, inside it is over priced. Pack minimal food for kids.
Aishu's — Google review
Had an amazing New Year's Eve at Kings Dominion Park! Quick check-in despite our late arrival. Tickets for the 31st night celebrations were reasonably priced at $26, plus $30 for parking. The park was beautifully decorated with a festive Christmas vibe. Food options were decent, and the various performances added to the lively atmosphere. The fireworks at midnight were spectacular, and the additional performances were a great touch. Overall, a fantastic experience – definitely a 5-star celebration!
Shashank — Google review
Had a blast at Kings Dominion. Definitely want to come back; it redeemed the disappointment of a day spent at Busch Gardens. Tickets were under $40 per person, and fast lane was not needed. The ride ops were sometimes fast, and other times took a little longer, but it looked to be due to trying to get guests to listen and put ALL the items in the bin/station. Park was clean, staff had energy, and was just a bit tricky navigating at first since there is like a "coaster alley" that doesn't form a circle in the park; it's a branch path. Lockers for some rides, others you could store in bins at stations, but lockers not free. Very confusing. I wish ALL rides had bins/station option, or all had FREE lockers. Universal does it based on the rides' wait time before charging for the locker. Overall great experience.
Kody B — Google review
A nice fun experience, alone, with someone or your family, much better price if you buy online beforehand and the golden pass is more convenient if you want to go more than once for example for Halloween or some other occasion. Convenient to included the drink on the input value. The wave pool closes at 5 so schedule your visit so you can enjoy some time on there and in the water games that are very fun if you go with the small children it has pool for them too. The lockers are rented and the price according to the size there is a discount with the golden pass. There is not much public in weekdays. I have gone Monday and I did not wait long to enter to the games.
Ceci Morera — Google review
Kings dominion is always great...fun rides good service. Fast lane is crazy expensive but worth it, food and drinks crazy expensive and not worth it. That expected at any theme park though. Overall great time.
Robert Andrews — Google review
We went to Kings Dominion in one of the week days and we had an amazing experience. There was no crowd and there was barely 10 min wait to get on the rides on the regular tickets. They have Soak City where they have kids and adults water play area. They have roller coasters and staff members do make sure that the person sitting on the coasters are in appropriate height. For kiddie rides they have Planet Snoopy with 10 plus rides 3 yrs old can easily ride on them. They have indoor arcades as well outdoor. In terms of dinning they have great variety of options to choose from. If you want to spend a day full of fun bring your family, you will not be disappointed.
Mariam — Google review
King's Dominion is a great experience. I went with friends in the middle of the week on a Wednesday and that's definitely the way to go.
There was hardly a 5-10 wait for any of the rides allowing us to ride multiple times, the place still had a decent number of folks so it didn't feel deserted, and there was a respectable amount of shade so even though there was a heat advisory warning it wasn't unbearable. We weren't able (or willing) to hit everything in the park (sorry, Planet Snoopy) but we had a great time.
There's a few rides that require you to not have anything in your pockets. You can have someone sit out and just hold your stuff, but I recommend paying for a locker. You can pay for one option for the ability to change locations, so you pay once for the day and you can retrieve your stuff and move it to the lockers outside of another ride as many times as you need to throughout the day.
The food is at the prices you'd expect, which is to say high, but I avoided eating all day at the park (which I don't recommend during a heat wave), but it was definitely a day well spent. I'd highly recommend going, especially if you can go on a Wednesday when the crowds hardly exist.
Steven Fox — Google review
Always have a great time with kids especially around holidays. So much to do, so much fun. Buy tickets in advance to save time in line or get a season pass and enjoy free parking and food discounts year round. They have buffet, Starbucks, grill, special foods around holidays, sweet frog ice cream and much more. I like that they have family house so if you are there with little ones , you can enjoy quite place where you can feed them, play with them. change clothes/diapers.
Eugene S — Google review
One of the best theme parks, if you are looking for a fun theme park, then this is the place. It has some amazing rides, I highly recommend twisted Timbers and flight of fear because they are some awesome roller coasters. don’t spend your money with extremely expensive options like Disney world when this place is almost as awesome!!!
NZ B — Google review
Winterfest was amazing! The park was beautiful - at times we just stood still so we could take it all in. The only holiday lights I’ve seen as incredible as this display was at the Spectacle of Lights at Disney World that was ended 5 years ago. This is the perfect replacement for us! The lights, shows, music, food were all wonderful, but the live animals were the icing on the cake. We could’ve stayed there for an hour just watching the smiles and laughter of the children as they touched the animals. The adults were just as delighted! We will not only return to Winterfest next year, but hopefully go more than just once. This is now our new favorite holiday activity, one which we hope will become a family tradition for many years to come!
Sara W — Google review
Decent experience overall. We came during Christmas time, so it was very pretty and a really festive atmosphere. However, it was v e r y cold, so if you're going during the winter, BRING WARM CLOTHES. There were performances on the streets, which were really fun, but none of the roller coasters were operational, as it was too cold outside. Me and my friend ended up riding the drop tower about a million times, but I would definitely recommend coming during the summer when the rides are open, along with the water park! The water park is what really sells it to me, I love the whole thing so much. Even though I didn't get what I may have been expecting this trip, it was still great and we had a great time.
Jaydon Bigler — Google review
Amazing place to visit, I’ll recommend to get the fast lane bands, it’s a little bit pricey but worth it, most of the rides are complete thrills but there are a lot for kids too, fun stuff for kids, adult, family, 55+ and so on
Prices for beverages and snacks are a little bit high, no smoking area ( couple years ago there was about 5 designated smoking areas)
It’s probably impossible to win a big toy prize at games but medium and small size is manageable
A lot of parking lots, for cars, buses and rv
Personal is very nice, all of them are pretty young which makes me happy that upcoming generations are involved in hard work
Radu Matran — Google review
This is my first time visiting as an adult and had an enjoyable time. They had Halloween decorations up and doing their evening Halloween special. We attended during the day stayed 5 hours, road a few rides. Park employees are generally friendly and helpful.
Anita Mick — Google review
This park continues to improve! I’m sure it will become a 5-star park in my eyes once they complete the Jungle X-Pedition land and open the new ride & plaza next year. This park has a certain charm to it, with some great rides. One train operations across the entire park weren’t fun on my last visit, but I’m sure that’ll change as the year progresses.
Tay Sports — Google review
Winterfest was great! Excellent for the family, get tickets online and they are only 25$ per person in advance. A lot of things to do for the kids, rides are open. Great Christmas shows and food/drinks. Highly recommended!
Luis — Google review
One of the rides never got running. The weather cleared up and it was a great day for the other rides. The bathrooms were very clean. The lines were perfect during the day but heavy in the evening. Overall, very satisfying trip.
Lizzy Lorenzo — Google review
Great time at Winterfest! The air was chilly and filled with cheer and the cocoa was hot and sweet. Loved the decorations, ice skating rink but most of all enjoyed decorating cookies in Mrs Clause’s kitchen. Such a cute experience and great way to meet the cast/characters. Made it in time to see a show which was by far the best I have seen at KD in quite some time. Overall an amazing experience, I got “pinned” with a hint saying “Find the Mayor” ended up finding the “Mayor of Candyland” which was pretty cool!
Cameron Lawson — Google review
Kids love it. Teens love it. Nice way to spend the day as a family. We went for the Haunt. It was pretty awesome. It was a Saturday evening. A lot of people and long lines for the rides. We had fun.
Cyndi Greer — Google review
The park was alot of fun, the food was good. Pricey, but goo's. There were some rides closed but the park was so big we didn't get to ride everything anyways. There were a few annoying employees at the drink stop and the pig resturant. The park could use some direction. But it was so much fun.
Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that recreates the European settlement of 1607, featuring three ships and a Powhatan village. Visitors can take guided tours of the outdoor exhibits, which are led by knowledgeable and personable guides while interpreters provide an entertaining experience. The highlight of the museum includes the ships and Fort. The indoor exhibits are also well curated and maintained. Suitable for all ages, it is recommended to visit in winter on a weekday to avoid peak season crowds.
Awesome piece of history. Enjoyed every moment of being here - from the introduction video played, to the galleries, to the settlement, native village, and ships. The folks working here were very knowledgeable and friendly as well. Definitely recommend taking the time
to check this place out. I added a few pics below to show what’s available outside, but I’ll leave the indoor galleries for the visitor to see !
Andr? Thibodeaux — Google review
Very nice museum both inside and out! We ended up skipping the videos, spent about 3 hours walking around looking at the exhibits. There are quite a bit of interactive displays inside; and the people dressed in role player costumes are extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and present with sincere enthusiasm.
B.D. Olsen — Google review
This was a great place to bring kids and learn important historical info about the first American settlement. They did a great job with all the recreations and all the actors that were dressed up were very informative and stayed in character. The indoor museum and gift shop were also very well laid out and interesting. Highly recommend!
Travis and Kristina Rhodes — Google review
Nice museum! There are two fun movies to watch, interesting things inside and outside. There's a restaurant near the entrance with nice food. We had a fun time! A few hours was more than enough
Kirsten vdM — Google review
Very interesting place to visit if you want to understand the history of the settlers in the United States. It was fascinating seeing how people built and lived in a community before modern technology. This is a nice place to stroll leisurely through history. I highly recommend visiting this historical location and seeing what it took to survive in a transitional period.
Bryan Hill — Google review
Jamestown was a great experience, especially for the kids. There's a lot to take in but the kids can touch a lot of it which makes it feel like a real experience. The kids loved putting on the armor and hats and really enjoyed the ship. The indoor exhibit was insightful and interesting as well. The people who were giving demonstrations were great at telling their stories and showing us what the tools were used for, how the bartering system worked and more. You need at least half a day to see and be able to appreciate the whole experience. The cafe had a lot of options to choose from. There are deli sandwiches, hot grilled food, salads, desserts and even snack items for quick bites. The gift shop near the entrance of the lobby when you first arrive is very nice. There was a lot of things to look at and the kids loved looking around and picking out their gifts. There are so many neat toys and books for the little ones.
C Drake — Google review
Interesting place to spend a few hours. Replicas of the ships the first settlers to the United States used, people in period correct costumes sharing knowledge, a village, shot tower, and an indoor museum going back to pre-settlement.
Excellent for children and adults alike.
carl graybeal — Google review
This place was amazing! There is so much to see and do! One of the highlights going with 2 kids and my mother was the abundance of air conditioning options (and cafe) if it gets too hot! The actors were really friendly and informative. Everything was clean and wasn't hard to locate at all! We loved the interactive games outside also! While we were there it wasn't overly crowded. We got in at 9 and we're able to get front row parking and had time to see the entire place before it started filling up with people! Even after, it is a great experience!
Amanda Meyer — Google review
It was an amazing experience. Looking back to history. Visualizing how British has started colonization in North America. Understanding and thinking about those old days how people survived. Overall it was a great experience.
Rahman Afrin — Google review
Excellent activity. Ships, fort, and museum are a must visit in this area. The cafeteria food was excellent and reasonably priced for a tourist area. Also offered a veteran’s discount.
James Simon — Google review
Loved every second of my four hour visit here. Could have stayed longer. At first I wasn't sure about having to take a guided tour for the outdoor exhibits (in certain weeks in winter they don't allow you to meander around), but I am actually really happy I was offered a tour. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and personable, the interpreters were fantastic fun and I didn't want to leave. The ships and the Fort were definitely highlights. The indoor exhibits are also well done and everything is spotless. Great for all ages. It looks like they experience large crowds in peak season, if that's not your thing plan a visit on a winter weekday and you won't be disappointed.
Sarah Longmore — Google review
It was a great experience. We purchased the american historic triangle tickets for multiple places and it was the best bang for the buck. The town, fort and ships were awesome!
Mike Michetti — Google review
Wonderful museum. It really gives you a well rounded view of the history. My favorite "thing" was the obelisk. It's an interesting celebration erected at the 350 year anniversary. The Cafe was also liked by our group.
Gunnar Larson — Google review
We had such a great time. We enjoyed touring the inside of the boat. The native Indian live exhibit is a must see. It's respectfully done and so interesting. It's like stepping back into their village. The Jamestown settlement was a little more sparsely done that I would have thought with a lot less actors but the ones there were excellent and informative. The facilities were clean and well maintained. The museum portion was excellent.
Marian Miller — Google review
It is interesting to see. Is it worth the money, not really. Kids love it. We brought our now 25 year old here when he was 8 and it was great. It seems ever here they have downgraded the entertainment aspect of it. The museum is interesting.
Lora Jacobson — Google review
I had a fantastic experience at the Jamestown settlement. The museum is beautifully curated, offering a rich historical insight. The outdoor activities, paired with captivating performances, added a lively and engaging dimension to the visit. Highly recommend!
Tatsiana Nelipovich — Google review
Wow. I was super impressed. Definitely exceeded my expectations. Great place for children and adults alike. And teens that enjoy history. I love how the enhibits were interactive and tactile. Lots of great films. You can walk or drive down to the Glasshouse after and finish by riding the ferry to the fort and back. Definitely worth visiting!
Justine Vild — Google review
We had a wonderful time! The galleries were much more extensive than I was expecting, with so many artifacts. All the exhibits were displayed so well.
The Native American village, ships, and fort really let you experience what life must have been like in 1607.
Carolyn Mason — Google review
Great place to visit and learn about our country's history. Between the gallery indoors and the outdoor recreations (villages and ships) we easily spent 3.5 hours. They do offer a military discount and a multi location discount to visit all 3 main museums of history.
Dacia Zimmer — Google review
This was a fun adventure. There was a walk through education center with all sorts of exhibits. The Jamestown replica stronghold was nice and informative. The Native American village was informative. All the staff were friendly, informative and, all around amazing. The 3 boats on the water were very informative. Crazy to think how small they are and that they (are replicas) crossed the ocean. A good place to spend some time and see a lil early Americana.
C M — Google review
I love history, and this is a wonderful place to see and learn. I wish we could have been there at opening time. We got there late in the afternoon and missed the outdoor area. Call for info before you buy the tickets. A bonus is that they do offer military and first responders a discount.
Gloria Rodriguez — Google review
Amazing museum that is interactive and a fun place to explore. They have a couple of shows to watch, a few demonstrations of musket firing, blacksmithing, cooking and sailing. I recommend getting the combo pass so you get into Yorktown as well with the price of one. All in all, a great experience for the family.
Historic Jamestowne is an intriguing site managed by the NPS, serving as the original location of the first permanent English settlement in North America. The settlement's remains were discovered in 1994, and visitors can explore the excavations on a free guided tour. Additionally, there is an archaeology museum called Archaearium that harbors over 4000 artifacts and features an exhibit called 'World of Pocahontas, Unearthed.
This was such a cool place to go visit. All the artifacts and information in the museums really help you get a clear picture of what life was like here. It's very cool to walk on the same land where English settlers walked 400 years ago, and also a bit sobering to know that many of the settlers died on that very land. The nearby musuem and replicas of the ships and Fort James are also very interesting and worth a look. All in all, a very cool experience.
Tristan Diekman — Google review
It was incredible to see the area first colonized in the USA. The day was perfect, weather-wise, and there was so much to see. The best part was the gentleman native American explaining how he was making an arrowhead in the traditional way. He showed and explained the tools he was using and how he was using them. He even explained the action to flake off pieces of stone to shape and sharpen it.
You enter through the main building and purchase tickets. They give you a sticker to wear as proof you paid. It's dog friendly and there is a gift shop/ post office inside. After passing through the building you walk across a long walking bridge. The tall obelisk is the first thing you see, then just beyond it is the church and you walk into the original Jamestown settlement. Beyond it is the building with artifacts.
There are plenty of benches to sit and rest while you watch the ferries go by. It was cool with the breeze coming off the water.
Laura Wright — Google review
Absolutely amazing place. It's so interesting to see the remnants of this country's origins. The archaeologists love taking questions and everyone there is so well-informed and just eager to share with you. Some of the archaeologists had actually found a couple of pieces while we were there and they showed them to us. It was a wonderful experience.
Tyrell Miller — Google review
Historic Jamestown is maintained by the National Park Service. Excavations are ongoing. Jamestown is the beginning of America. It is another story of the early struggles of the first settlers. There are lots to see and learn. The first fort on American soil is here. The first mansions are here. It is the story of people coming from all nations for a new beginning and contributing what they bring to the development of a new nation. I wholly recommend this tour.
Larry Henry — Google review
I would give it 5 stars but they have fenced off the best parts of the historic areas requiring a separate $15.00 entry fee. I was told this started in October 2023. Sort of a shame what the powers to be did here.
BILLY BOONE JR — Google review
The kids had a blast taking in our nation's history. What a fun way to bring our texts books to life! I would recommend good walking shoes as most is gravel and a good refillable water bottle. Restrooms are clean but not all around so potty before heading to the sites! Bring a camera the views are amazing.
tim taylor — Google review
Very well cared for park. Plenty of educational materials posted around the grounds. It was fun to see active archeological activities still occurring. The Park Ranger talk was very informative and engaging. It wasn't overly crowded even on a holiday weekend. Definitely recommend a visit.
Laura Jones — Google review
This is an awesome place just to walk the grounds to see everything restored and preserved from over 400 years ago. The view of the James River is beautiful, and it must have been very interesting starting the first permanent English settlement in North America back in 1607.
Mike McGuire — Google review
I haven't been back here for 30 years since I was a child, and I returned today with my kid and got to relive my childhood. Place looks so much better than what I remember as far as the museum areas go, and I'm happy they got as much going on as they do as this is an excellent place to preserve. Would highly recommend and I'm more than likely to come back with the family to tour the grounds a little more slowly. Had a wonderful time!
Jonathan Hartzell — Google review
This is the original Jamestown settlement. There is the US National Park and the Preservation Virginia area. There are two separate admissions. The Preservation Virginia side host the Archaearium Archaeology Museum, the Memorial Church, statues of John Smith and Pocahontas, and a fort replica. The National Park side has an obelisk monument and the grounds of the new Jamestown Settlement.
Michael Silas — Google review
If you are a military family the entrance will be free for all of the member of the family. That itself deserves a five star!
Most of the interesting things to see are outside so if you are afraid of Covid, go there confident. At the entrance of the welcome center, someone is at the ready to answer any questions before you buy your tickets.
We experienced NO wait, maybe because we traveled there before Christmas and during weekday.
Inside the welcoming center, there is a very cute souvenir store. There is also like a video room but that was closed — probably due to Covid restrictions.
Outside was lots of fun. The kids loved it. The excavation site was fascinating for them. They also simply loved running around and see the canon and statue of the first governor of Virginia.
I recommend that outing.
virginie gimenez — Google review
So awe-inspiring. To see where a nation first began is a piece of history you cannot replace. The interpreters are amazing and full of so much information. To think that the first English settlers also walked around here is thought-provoking. Well kept and rebuilt pieces of history.
Laura Gibson — Google review
The location has so much historical significance and they have done such a wonderful job exploring and preserving and presenting it. We were there for 5 hours and could have spent much longer. They currently have ranger lead programs 10, 1:30 & 3:30, but they said to call beforehand as the schedule changes daily. The National park pass receives 50% off admission.
Emily Anne — Google review
It's great to see the oldest English settlement in America. Much of the fort has been recreated for you to visit and there are a few original areas including some stone foundations, early graves, and some brickwork.
The museum included lots of original artifacts and also some skeletons from original settlers who had been identified using historical records and scientific analysis.
The cafe was FANTASTIC. Really great soups and sandwiches.
Overall, this was great value - about half the price of visiting Williamsburg, and much more interesting in my opinion. Also, kids get in for free!
Everyone was friendly and helpful. The ticket staff helped my parents obtain a discount.
Oliver Warne — Google review
Loved this place it has 2 museums one tou walk through to get to the out side settlement and one just off to the side in the settlement. They also have a live archeology dig they let you(kids) help with.its right by the water and just a nice place to walk in the grounds flat so it's not a hard walk. It's not to bad of a distance to walk neither with lots of shady spots to set and rest.i highly recommend to get a pass such as the triangle pass. But if that to high they offer other opinions. It covers all museums ,reenactment , and touts.
ray oliver — Google review
It was cool. Where comfy shoes, not saddles bc it is quite a walk to see all the exhibits and lots of gravel pathways. I appreciate how much available seating sprinkled about so when you get tired from walking and need a break, a bench isn't far away.
You can tell they took care and time setting up the exhibits. It is easy to understand the history that took place here.
Megan Villanueva — Google review
The site itself is pretty cool, albeit presented without much fanfare. Favorite part is definitely the archaeological museum that they have, whose staff are top notch knowledgeable and very interesting to listen to - in particular one Native speaker, I believe his name was also Daniel, gave one of the most in depth looks into the history of the first peoples here I'd ever heard.
Daniel Li — Google review
Great park to walk around and enjoy views of the river and learn the founding history of Virginia and the US. Dog-friendly in the outdoor areas only. Military families are welcomed for free!
Christina Patten — Google review
Came for the history. Stayed for the history. Left cause the pork and beans.
Great place. BYOF (Bring your own food!)
Military is free. But also, free for up to 3 adult guests w/ each military personnel as well. They don’t say that on the website.
Ben Crayne — Google review
Probably the weakest link of the Colonial Triangle, but still a fascinating place to visit. The Church is probably the focal point of the site, but there is still a lot of history to be seen here, and ongoing archaeological work being done to unearth even more. There is also a Wildlife Loop on the site with some very beautiful scenery, and 3 old graves.
Coming Judgement — Google review
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!! This is a MUST for schools whether local, or even out of state!! The knowledge found here for children and adults is beyond comprehension! This information is HISTORY IN THE MAKING!! To have visited today and having met a few of the archaeological team currently digging to continuously unearth artifacts dating back some 400+ years to earlier settlers of the Colonial Era when John Smith uprooted the Fort there at Jamestown, and well, … it quite breathtaking for a historian such as I to be standing in a place where the first democracy took shape. There are absolutely no words to express the surrealism of standing in this place. But then to turn and see the name of your ancestors on the wall or yet the very root of your family’s last name and thus your heritage, right there … it’s astounding!! When visiting Williamsburg, VA I recommend staying at Aldrich Bed & Breakfast where you have the opportunity of selecting several personal guided tours from Mr. Tom Patton, he and his wife Sue Patton are the Innkeepers. Mr. Patton is a Licensed Tour Guide. You have the opportunity of selecting a tour of Jamestown Island, Colonial Williamsburg, and/or Yorktown with Mr. Tom Patton. Feel free to visit their website aldrichhouse dot com. Mr. Patton has a knack for making the history of Williamsburg come alive as you tour, ITS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. You literally feel as though you are there during that period!
Cindy Burgener — Google review
Love the Jamestowne settlement attractions. The National Parks did a great job as always. The Jamestowne Settlement is also a great place to visit. (2 different places)
The actors did a great job in character and the tour guides were great also.
There is so much to see and learn.
Amazing to be there and learn the history. Loved it!
Jason Sargent — Google review
Very interesting historical place. Our guide Mark was phenomenal. We actually stayed all day to hear his afternoon tour
Christy Werley — Google review
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1368 Colonial Nat'l Historical Pkwy, Jamestown, VA 23081, USA
The White House of the Confederacy is a museum containing the largest collection of Confederate artifacts and memorabilia during the years of the Civil War. It is located in Richmond, Virginia, and is open to visitors year-round. The museum was created by war veterans and Confederate leaders themselves, as a way to preserve their personal belongings and memories of the war.
I enjoyed the tour a lot. They did an excellent work restoring the historical accuracy of the house and preserving it. White House of the Confederacy is a unique place to learn about American history and plunge into the everyday life and work of Jefferson Davis and his family. Although our tour guide was great, I would suggest adding more content on the history & politics of the American South and reducing the amount of information about their everyday routine. Potentially, they could run several tours for those who are interested to learn about various aspects of that era. Their souvenir shop deserves special attention! Make sure to check it out because they have some extraordinary artifacts that are not so easy to purchase online these days.
Victor Oleynik — Google review
Had a really fun time at this small museum. My husband and I wanted to kill some time in Richmond and came upon this & we were blown away. The museum is smack dab in downtown in between the hospitals. We parked at the hospital parking lot and it was a quick 3 minute walk.
Andy was a delightful tour guide and she was very well versed on all things President Jefferson Davis.
This tour took around an hour and I definitely recommend it.
Rachel C — Google review
Under renovation so we were unable to visit, tickets for tours need to be purchased online in advance. It’s unfortunate that the city choose to build a hospital surrounding this historic site. It detracts from its significance.
Sarah Hartman — Google review
Tour guide Andrea was knowledgeable with a friendly vibe. The house was beautiful. It gives a sweet glimpse into its time hosting the Davis family and also hints at its time before and after.
Alexandria Virginia — Google review
I was surprised to stumble across something so infamous as the home of the President of the Confederacy right in the heart of Richmond. I did not get a tour of the inside but spent some time reading historic markers about the building on the outside. It was dark when I got here so it gave a real eerie vibe to the area. Would love to learn more about the building next time I visit.
Collin Marshall — Google review
A great museum if you are into American history. Admission is with guided tours only, and it makes sense - the house isn't big, and a guided tour provides you with the history of the house. Great souvenir shop. We enjoyed our tour, our only suggestion is to focus more on the history of the Confederacy rather than on personal stories. We were disappointed that the third floor was closed to the public. The museum is worth visiting.
Alexey Gorbachev — Google review
Well worth the visit! As Civil War history buffs, we're always skeptical of anything owned and operated by a private group. This was a fantastic tour. The tour guide, Charlie, was extremely knowledgeable and did a fantastic job. You need to reserve your time slot online and purchase tickets in advance. It's an excellent tour. We were so impressed that we came back the next day with our family who were traveling with us. They do a fantastic job of presenting a fairly unbiased view of the Civil War and the history of the Confederate White House as well as its occupants. We'd go again!
Arden Chambers — Google review
The entire experience is ruined by the fact that it's glory is blocked by the giant hospital. This is absolutely disgraceful to such a historic place. The city of Richmond should be ashamed.
Margareta — Google review
Fantastic tour! Beautiful restoration and interiors. We enjoyed this a lot and definitely recommend!
Jill Morgan — Google review
Very interesting home to a few people, one president and for a period, a public school. Our tour guide, Charlie, was exceptional and knew a great deal about Pres Davis and his family, etc. The only downside was parking, which is atrocious. Plan in 30 minutes prior to starting the tour just to find
Alex Diebold — Google review
Excellent tour. Highly recommend. It was definitely interesting to hear more about the Davis family. Before today, I knew nothing but the name of Jefferson Davis. The museum is located smack dab in the middle of a hospital complex, and parking can be a little tricky. Tours are limited to 18 people each. Definitely recommend booking in advance. We went on a Thursday at 10:30am and our tour had 10 people in it, so I could see later in the day and weekends booking up.
Jenifer Fosnaugh — Google review
Excellent small museum you should visit when you're in town. As others have said, it's hidden in a world of hospitals and parking garages and can get lost very easily - but it's still there.
Nathan gave an excellent tour and the staff is full of knowledge and unique informational tid bits about the site.
Definitely give yourself plenty of time to find some parking if you are coming on a scheduled tour, the people coming in and out of the parking garages for the medical center can be slower than molasses - then the elevator somehow decides it can go even slower. Plus if you're driving in from out of town - it's a sea of one ways - be prepared for that while you're following the GPS, ensuring you're on the right street *AND* watching out for all the pedestrians.
Gavin Hamilton — Google review
A true piece of American history presented by a great tour guide (included in ticket price), highly recommended. Great for history buffs as well as design/decoration gourmands, beautiful interiors rich with historical details.
Aari Lemmik — Google review
Roured the old Confeferate capital building and enjoyed the experance. They have some but not all of the original items. They have done a good job restoring the building. It first served as a privet house, then the Confedetate capital building ,after that Union headquarters for 5 years. It then became a school and finally a museum.
Moving on with Old man river — Google review
Amazing tour guide who is obviously quite passionate about their job. Very informative and non-biased tour.
Wiaczeslaw Kubarev — Google review
100% recommend. Our tour guides name is Charlie and I could of easily spent all day listening to all the knowledge that he has. Beyond incredible. We went for girl scouts and we had a large group. We were able to ask questions. Well worth the time and money.
Amanda Selkirk — Google review
This is a beautiful building that is hidden right in the middle of VCU hospital. Google directions might confuse you trying to find it. The gift shop was closed. Tours are by appointment, so I was unable to go into the building.
Hollywood Cemetery is a beautiful, historical cemetery in Richmond, Virginia. Famous people such as two American presidents, six Virginia governors, and two Supreme Court justices are buried there. It's also a popular tourist destination with great views of the river and city skyline.
I absolutely love visiting cemeteries! This one definitely wowed me. So much history and it is beautiful! Photos do not do it justice! If you’re ever in the area give it a visit!
Amber Carroll — Google review
Google maps directed us through some weird streets but finally got us there. Located on the banks of the James River with hills, valleys and large trees, this garden cemetery is a beautiful and serene place to walk around. Various tours are offered here, but self guided tours can be taken by downloading a map or getting a map from the visitor center for $1. This is the burial place of two Presidents of the United States and 6 Governors of Virginia. There are many headstones that are works of art. We also came across some animal statues beside a few headstones.
Seeta — Google review
Finally fulfilled my lifelong dream of seeing David Brockie's grave. I had a moment where I transported through space and time and felt really connected to the punk and metal scene in Richmond. Additionally, the cemetery itself was really beautiful and well taken care of. Lots of history and great place for a snack. Would be buried here. Worth the trip. Hail Oderus.
Mike Kennedy — Google review
Simply serene. Beautiful riverside cemetery that has lots to contemplate. It is welcoming but invites personal exploration and contemplation. Dogs are welcome.
Jean Westcott — Google review
Very peaceful and historical cemetery. You can choose to walk or drive through. Some of the paths are pretty steep.
Shannon Wheeler — Google review
If there is only one historical cemetery you ever visit in your lifetime, it must be this one! It is vast, extensively, beautifully landscaped, and tended to meticulously. Park-like in its atmosphere, it feels more like an outdoor museum of sorts, as people walk the myriad paths for exercise as well as to browse the many headstones, monuments, and mausoleums, old to newer. The views of Richmond are picturesque, and you can drive thru the cemetery if you don't wish to walk. It is immense, so my folks and I drove along and stopped where we chose to get out and view graves as we went. This place is a must see!
Ronna Richmond — Google review
Hollywood Cemetery is beautiful and well-maintained. It only has one entrance/exit that wasn't locked, which didn't register in Google when we were trying to exit. If you're going to walk here, bring a water bottle. It's very interesting to see people that were important to Richmond's history, the gravestones are mostly clear and legible, and the walking path is smooth. It's a little hilly, which looks lovely, but keep it in mind if you've got poor knees. You're able to drive the whole park if walking it isn't an option for you.
Lukas G. — Google review
Went to visit historical sites and teach my kids about American History. We enjoyed our time there and the kids were more interested in the Richmond Vampire W.W. Pool but they did learn a lot! We also got to see deer running through the cemetery
C Ware — Google review
Beautiful cemetery. Went to see the Presidents' burial places. Monroe and Tyler.
Sarah Harris — Google review
Photos do not do Hollywood Cemetery justice, ditto, as so many others have said the same thing. Leave your car at the entrance and just wander under the canopy of trees. You will not be able to see the whole place in one visit so just enjoy the time you do have to wander, to read the headstones, to see the care and love given to the selection of each site. It is very hilly and you will lose your breath, but you won't regret walking.
Irma Almazan — Google review
I think this is a must visit in Richmond. Beautiful grounds and the views from near Presidents circle of the river and city are unmatched. Cemeteries usually freak me out but the feeling here is somehow more upbeat. There is a ton of history there and the visitors appreciate it. I encourage anyone to give it a visit, preferentially in the daytime, I am not brave enough to traverse these hollowed grounds in the dark.
Joseph Moran — Google review
A beautiful place to lay loved ones to rest. This is by far the coolest cemetery I have ever seen. We drove for almost 2 hours to visit. Iy's a shame it was raining the entire day but we still walked around and explored this enormous place. I feel like my words do it no justice so I will end this here. May all those souls rest in peace.
Berkeley Plantation is a historic site located on the James River that dates back to 1726. It features a Georgian-style brick house with 18th-century furnishings, surrounded by beautiful gardens and farmland. The plantation was home to Benjamin Harrison V, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and his son William Henry Harrison, who later became the US President.
My wife and I spent part of the afternoon here earlier today. Absolutely worth the visit! Definitely recommend you stop by for a couple of hours, walk around the grounds, and go on the house tour!
Jeff — Google review
This place was amazing!!! Love the history and the architecture is amazing!!! The tour guide was great, and extremely knowledgeable!! This place is amazing, and we’ll worth the visit! Even after this first visit, there is so much more to see! This is a must visit for those that have interest in history!! The current owners and their ancestors have done a wonderful job of preserving the history, and presenting it to the public.
Joshua Ray Ogletree — Google review
My wife, cousin, and I visited Berkeley Plantation last Summer. It was a great place to visit. The history of the property is rather remarkable. If you love history, this place is worth visiting. Many Presidents visited this property. I will let the tour guides tell you the rest of the interesting facts.
Curtis McGhee Jr. — Google review
Had a great time. The woman in the gift shop was friendly and very knowledgeable. The tour guide was great very friendly knowledgeable. I highly recommend you see this if in the area.
LaRae G — Google review
It was absolutely amazing. I'm really into history so we paid for the tour. I went with my Dad&my 15yr old daughter. Shane was our tour guide&my Dad was beyond impressed. We spent a few hours enjoying the property&walking around. The tour is well worth it.
Becky O'Brien — Google review
A step back in time, Berkeley Plantation, with an interesting history of changing ownership over the years. We toured the house with Clarence, a fantastic guide, bright-spirited and very knowledgeable. Beautiful house and grounds. Allow an hour to walk around, another hour for the tour. Eye opening family tree - don’t miss it - in the building with bathrooms where a (dated) film runs. The mansion’s entrance hall was used for dancing in the early days, and how I would love to bring my Colonial dance club there!
Andrea Larson — Google review
We did a paranormal ghost hunt so a lot of what we saw was in the dark but the history here is amazing! Shane was so full of information and my husband loved picking his brain. The grounds were beautiful and we now need to go back and see the whole place in the daytime.
Alicia Ruiz — Google review
We went on a rainy afternoon, not sure what we would find. Found the most informative, animated and engaging guide! He brought history to life and was a wealth of information. If it had been sunny, there would have been more people....GO! AMAZING
Michelle DeBord — Google review
We walked through the door, to the moment we left this place was awesome. The lady in the front office was very friendly and helpful and also gave us our tour. She was so sweet and even brought the cat George over to see us.
The grounds are very clean and well kept. The house is magical! The history is inspiring...
There is a monument about taps that will absolutely pull your heart strings.
Will be going back
Jessica Jazz — Google review
Beautiful property rich in history. The guided tour was insightful and lasted around thirty minutes. We walked the grounds and went down to the river where the boats would dock to pick up and drop off visitors.
Tom Yenk — Google review
Had a wonderful experience at Berkeley Plantation. Such an historic destination with an unbelievably rich history. Would recommend to anyone wanting to learn more about the origins of this country. The tour guide we had was just awesome.
W.R. Rose — Google review
Loved this plantation. Really enjoyed our guide, I can't quite remember her name but she was really nice, friendly, and informative! She made the tour fun and even had the kids attention the whole time as well. They have a dog there named Chief who roams around the property and he is a super cool friendly loving dog. He toured with us for most of it which was pretty cool.
Adam Brock — Google review
Good tour though guide had dry or bored humor. Could tell he had given tour thousands of times.
But extremely knowledgeable and interesting post tour, one on one.
We arrived in time for last tour of the day so very little time to explore on our own the grounds and extras. Happy with what we had time for!
End of season, last week open.
Tammy — Google review
4.7
(657)
•
4.5
(501)
12602 Harrison Landing Rd, Charles City, VA 23030, USA
Durham Performing Arts Center is an incredibly modern and well-known theater in the American Tobacco Historic District. It regularly showcases Broadway shows and major performing artists, like Hamilton. The theater has a capacity of 2,800, making it one of the top attractions in Durham.
Amazingly beautiful venue, not a bad seat in the house. Very clean. Lots upon lots upon lots of the color RED. Sound system was great. Bathrooms were clean, drinks were easily accessible and a wide variety of drink choices. I also like that the venue is within walking distance of good food.
Business AsUsual — Google review
I had to take away another star for the seating and the fact that they ran out of pretzels within minutes of the 20 minute break. The seats are definitely not good. They hurt your butt after about 30 minute so I definitely recommend a seat crushing come with you.
Had to take away a star because someone decided to kick and beat my seat. Not happy with that.
Show is good so far, though.
Very nice, crazy but nice.
The bathroom is definitely nice. Complimentary lady products are available in the bathroom also. The entrance is crazy definitely going through a good search.
Drug dog
Metal detector
Tickets scanned
People are available to help around every corner
Erica Hill — Google review
I was there for the recent STYX concert and my family and I have no complaints. The staff was extremely kind and helpful. We were pretty much escorted to my handicap spot and my wife and son were shown the seats in front of me. Heck, I even had one of the staff, a bubbly, cheerful woman on the second floor interior of venue help me pull on my concert t-shirt I bought. I usually have to complain about handicapped service because it's just not very good most places. Here I felt just like another concert goer. They saw me the person and not the guy in a wheelchair.
Soulful Archer — Google review
This is such a nice venue. There really is NO bad seat in this place! We sat in Section 10, Row A which was the 2 level balcony for the musical WICKED. It was fantastic.
The parking deck was very close to the venue with only a short walk. And checking in was seamless.
Loni Aycock — Google review
First time guest here, and this venue has the most amazing customer service of any concert hall I have been to. Top notch all the way. Beer and food were very reasonably priced as well. Most places like this, you’re just another customer, but DPAC was so welcoming and made me feel like an appreciated guest! THANK YOU!!
MARY CAY — Google review
My husband and I drove 2.5 hours to see Bert Kreisher perform here. It was totally worth it! Entering the venue was a breeze and so was finding our seats. The servers at the concession stands were very friendly and the food and drinks were pretty good! The bathrooms were also very clean and the venue staff were very helpful with guiding us out of the venue towards the parking lot. We will certainly return here!
Brittany Zorn — Google review
The first picture is the orchestra pit. The second one is the stage for Hamilton. What an amazing show. The theater is of course fairly new and just beautiful on the outside. They have several parking lots, so parking was easy. The interior is beautiful also oh, and very very clean, and very secure, with lots of service people two man the food and refreshment stands. Drinks and food all right bit cheaper then they would be at the Ballpark. All the employees are extremely helpful. And friendly. I'd go there all the time if I could afford a season pass.
Patrick Nalley — Google review
Beautiful venue. Parking was so easy. They had all kinds of snacks, clothing apparel for WICKED. We went with a group. Seating was very comfortable. Staff was Amazing.
Martha Martel — Google review
DPAC is a nice venue, the staff is friendly and everything moved smoothly before we were seated. They offer drinks and simple snacks, there are alcoholic beverages from beer to a bar as well as a coffee station. The seats were nice and the bathrooms were clean. My husband and I really enjoyed our experience!
Abby Normal — Google review
Got great tickets to the jinx and dela holiday show. The show was right up my alley, a parody about religion, politics, consumerism, climate, miserable conflict, and people forgetting to look out for others... everything that make people appear and be ignorant. DPAC staff are super pleasant and helpful, crowd is fun and eclectic, and the view is pretty good from the lower levels, even the side section 4/Q/213. There seems to be complimentary coffee and tea. Bathrooms are big and clean. Multiple entrances and exits. The venue holds a huge crowd. The volume is a little too loud so that some of the singing numbers are difficult to understand and distinguish. Parking is nearby for $12, but honestly you can find street parking free just a few blocks around. It's nice to arrive to park around 45 minutes before the show, though this one started 10 minutes late, and lasted a total of 1 hr. 45 min.
Neha Patel — Google review
Came to see the Nutcracker for a Christmas present. It was a well put on show, beautiful costumes and sets. The doors opened about 10 min later than it said so that felt a little frustrating as it became more of a mad dash frenzy to get to seats. However everything is clearly marked, so it was easy to find where you were supposed to go.
The staff was friendly and attentive, happy to help and answer questions.
It was nice that DPAC sent out quite a few emails in the days before the show regarding parking and traffic with specific rates and locations. I’m sure we could’ve found some free street parking, but we used one of the parking garages for $10 and it was safe and easy to get in and out.
Tayler T — Google review
First here for Kem concert featuring Niito Band for Mother's Day! My mom, sister, and I had a phenomenal time. Beautiful place and great sound system. The concert was awesome! We are already looking at the next concert to come back!
LaTonya A. — Google review
Fantastic venue for an extraordinary 2Cellos Concert! All the staff were efficient, friendly and welcoming and the area of Durham was great. Had dinner at Tobacco Road Cafe and the food was plentiful and delicious!
Sherry Bevins — Google review
This was my first time seeing a musical. I didn't know what to expect.
This place is super nice and so clean! The lone tends to build during intermission but it went pretty quickly. They direct you which stall to go to and have hygiene products available. We were were on the third row on the balcony and we loved our seats! We could see everything. There were a few moments when I couldn't hear the audio. The cast and music was phenomenal. One thing to note about the stairs: they can be hard to maneuver. I am an aptuee and they made me nervous. Not unsafe... Just nervous. Wonderful time and sweet staff! Huge range of snacks and drinks. Highly recommend. I am getting a pretzel next time! They looked SO good.
Tiffany Anderson — Google review
Convenient and they have the most amazing acts that come to perform never disappointed! We just saw Wicked, it held up to performances I've seen in New York. Can't wait for our next adventure there.
Lysa Britt — Google review
Great venue, not a bad seat in the house. Very affordable garage parking $7, they didn’t take cash 10/14/23. Coming back, only one elevator was working and the line was long. If you are using the elevators at the theater, usually a long line, and it may take 4-5 waits until you can board, so plan the extra time. Staff are always friendly and helpful. Used the vending machine to get soda, 20 ounce bottle, charged $5. And don’t forget to visit the box office if buying tickets to other shows to save the extreme handling online fees from TM.
E M — Google review
I personally feel it isn't a bad seat in this facility. I sat in the Grand tier for this event. I have truly enjoyed all the events I've gone to here. The staff is awesome. Here are some pics of Dru Hill from the Ladies R&B Kickback Concert Part 2 last night.
Karen Warrick — Google review
Just outstanding! We saw the Lion King. Great location. All seats are good. The acoustics were excellent! Highly recommend.
kenneth & belinda Holley — Google review
What a superb venue!! I saw an amazing musical done so well!! The people here are incredible, from waving us into the parking area, to scanning tickets or ushering us to our seats...everyone was super friendly and pleasant! Loved that you could bring food and beverages into the theater to eat at your seat. Rows are situated at a height where the rows below do not obstruct your view. Great place!
Karina Romanelli — Google review
Great place for live music and musicals. The facility is very comfortable with good views and acoustics except for the occasional big head in front of you. Try for seats near the middle sections 5 and 6 of the Grand Tier for the best value but the balcony view is also very good.
Brian Hammill — Google review
I went to see The Grinch The musical and everything was awesome! I really enjoyed watching an amazing performance. Please be kind and explain to children that it is rude to kick those sitting in front of you. Educate your children before you take them to an event. And don't start getting in the way when the performers are still on stage, I was impressed to see how many people started to leave when the performers were saying goodbye.
Noelia Bautista — Google review
This place is beautiful inside and out, so easy to navigate and so many bathrooms and food counters. The acoustics were great! All you could hear was the performer, not a peep could be heard from the raucous crowd while the music was playing. A lovely place to enjoy a concert.
Alana Schmitt — Google review
This marked my inaugural visit to the DPAC, driving from Greensboro to catch the performance by Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith. Despite having secured tickets months in advance, a curveball came our way when my wife required foot surgery just 1 1/2 weeks prior to the concert. Concerns loomed over logistical challenges, including drop-off/pick-up and navigating her limited mobility at the venue.
Our apprehensions swiftly dissipated thanks to the extraordinary assistance of Nancy, an outstanding parking attendant. Addressing all my questions, she guided us to optimal parking to ensure proximity to the front door. Even before entering, multiple staff members inquired about our needs, offering to provide a wheelchair or any necessary assistance. Upon entering, we were efficiently ushered to the elevator and directed to our seats.
Enter Donna – truly exceptional! She engaged with us, discussing options to enhance my wife's comfort and guiding us to the most convenient route to the restroom. I cannot praise her enough for the stellar service provided. From beginning to end, it felt like a Red Carpet experience. And, of course, the show was nothing short of amazing in this fantastic venue. :)
Jared NoneYa — Google review
Ledisi tour was great. Saw her a few years ago. She really gives a great performance. Her new music is on target for today.
Looking glamorous and sounding even better than soft butter on perfectly brown toast.
Gail Bryant — Google review
Good acoustics, great show, the typical tight rows of seating. No enforcement of not using cellular devices during the show. My neighbor was watching gymnastics throughout the first act, the filter did not make it less distracting.
Reuben Moore — Google review
Well, we came to see JP and when I bought the tickets, I didn't see anything indicating a handicapped or companion, so I bought aisle seats thinking I could be ok there. I didn't realize there were stairs leading to the seats when I bought them and was stuck. Fast forward to our wonderful usher, ZEDA, coming over to ask if we needed any help. She immediately took charge, radioed to the others and asked if there were any more open handi spots and got us situated in no time flat. Plus, I inquired about what spots to book for future shows since this was our first time here and she pointed them all out!! She went above and beyond to help us and I will be booking many more shows here just because of her. Y'all made a wonderful choice hiring this young lady and even though we didn't converse with many other ushers, they all seemed very happy to help when necessary. Thank you for making this a wonderful evening!!
Durham Bulls Athletic Park is a well-known baseball stadium in Durham, North Carolina. The 10,000 seat venue has a unique bull statue on top and impressive architecture that matches the original Durham Bulls stadium. The ballpark is home to the Durham Bulls minor league baseball team and provides an unforgettable fan experience.
Beautiful ballpark within a great setting. Not a bad seat in the house. Plenty of services for food, drink, and souvenirs. Parking was easy with multiple parking garages close by. A must see park for AAA baseball fans.
Theodore Melton — Google review
We used to love going to the DBAP multiple times each season. Since covid, things have changed for the worse in my opinion. DBAP has gone cashless.
My first minor issue was at the parking deck, getting slowed down by paying with a card because my card tap didn't work. When attempting to enter the park, we were close to an opening that we weren't allowed to enter through. We later exited though those gates. Would have been more convenient to have a ticket scanner there at the beginning. We had to walk halfway around to another entrance where there was a ticket scanner.
Moving on to food ordering..keep in mind that we are 36 & 43, so we are familiar with electronics and screens. Our tickets were preloaded with $5 so we attempted to order at one of the first few stations we saw. There are now screens to replace people. 👎 We selected our orders and tried scanning our tickets multiple times and it wouldn't work. My husband tried and still couldn't get it to scan. We ended up cancelling after being there several minutes and moving on to another area since no one was there to help. We actually found an area where a person took our orders, but we forgot to order a drink and were looking for the discounted Bull Durham beer (on Thursdays), which wasn't available at the normal food places. Wasted a few more minutes getting one soda and the tickets actually scanned there. Discount beer wasn't available there either. There was a little area with fridges on the opposite side as the food places (near a bar), which had the discounted canned Bull Durham beer. This was the 4th stop we made! Ridiculous.
Once you make it to the seats, everything was perfect. The opposing team (Jumbo Shrimp) would throw a ball over the net after each inning for the kids to catch. My son loved this, but wasn't able to catch one. He later walked up to their dugout and was handed a ball. Very nice guys! We noticed the the Durham Bulls quickly went inside, not allowing time for signatures, but the Jumbo Shrimp remained outside for a little while. If we had a marker, we would have asked them to sign the ball.
After we walked back the the parking deck, we saw that we were unable to exit. Parking deck was gridlocked at our location (level 5) and cars blocked us in. We decided to go back down the stairs and took some photos near the Lucky Strike towers and the water. There must have been some event at the neighboring DPAC, which led to an extremely congested exit. We took about 20 minutes down near the water and it was clear when we returned to the deck.
Overall, this is still a great family experience, but not cheap if you're on a limited budget. On discounted food Thursday, this was still about $120 with tickets.
Francesca — Google review
Great facility to see a game, so much energy in the crowd. Love the atmosphere the organization and the guy that gets the crowd involved during the game is awesome. Day there was the kids got to run the field. Also as a fan of the movie, you won't be disappointed of the experience. WAY TO GO BULL'S... ya bunch of lollygaggers!!!!!🦬⚾️🧢
Matthew Le Sage — Google review
Amazing ballpark and atmosphere. For being a AAA ball club, this place is a lot of fun. There are a ton of food options as well as lots of draft beer stands. You will not be disappointed coming to a ball game here, every seat in the house is fantastic. Next time you are in or around the Durham area, definitely plan a trip here! 10/10
Tyler Tubbs — Google review
The seats were great and the concession has great selection of food and drinks.
It's a fun and great atmosphere to take a family and friends out to enjoy a nice game during the weekdays or over the weekend.
The Athletic park has great access and walkway from the parking structure located on each side. The fountain on the main entrance was great spot to meet and take photos.
Sam Fantaye — Google review
I LOVE going to see the Bulls play! I grew up in Durham and have been going to games my whole life. The field and stadium are very nice. The eating areas, seating, and bathrooms are clean. They have a lot of activities for kids and adults. The fireworks on Fridays nights are awesome.
Ashley S. — Google review
Great stadium, felt like a major league ball game! 😃 The prices are super reasonable. There isn't a bad seat in the stadium. The view of the park is spectacular from any angle. We decided to not sit in our seats and stood in all different areas during the game and it was great being able to walk the whole park and see the game form all different ways. It was one of the last games of the season and it was almost sold out, but the layout made it not seem that croweded. It is wide open and spacious. Great night of baseball and a fun spot to take the family for a night of entertaiment that won't break the bank!
Michelle — Google review
I have been to this baseball stadium twice with my brother. The atmosphere has been great. I played baseball as a kid. The Bulls mascot Wool E. Bull is loved by the fans. If you are ever in North Carolina during baseball season this is a fun place with great food.
Ken Harris — Google review
Had a great time. It was dog night! How fun to see all of the dogs! Such a great idea! Mine will come next time for sure! He loves being out in public. The weather was perfect! Parking was easy.
Amy Hodge — Google review
This stadium is one of my favorite places to be. No matter who plays, the atmosphere, food, beer, and of course the Game are just the best experience ever. I get 10 game passes every year now and don't regret any of them! I pray Durham can get this mess with the MLB handled so we can continue to enjoy visiting!
Chazney — Google review
This is a great family friendly place! The staff is always friendly and helpful! I been going to Bulls game for many years and there is always a great time!!! Even when it's not a MLB game it feels like it and before/after the game there are may options around!!! If you haven't already seen them playing, I'll highly recommend you to try it!!! It's worth it!!! Friday night games always have fireworks!!!
Luis Marcano — Google review
We love the Durham Bulls. And we made it a girls night out. The hubby could not make it. We had great seats but all the seats are great in the stadium. We enjoyed the fireworks at the end of the game. The Durham Bulls is a great family, group or company outing. Win or lose the game is a joy to watch.. Go Bulls!!!
Brenda Gilliam — Google review
Nice upper end minor league park. Opened in '95 and has been continuously upgraded since. Bathrooms are decent, access is good, seeing is good from the box seating to the grass field GA in the outfield. Good concession variety at a ok price. One major restaurant can be frequented over behind left field above the "blue monster".
Joseph “Joe” Caruth — Google review
Bulls games are fun for even casual baseball fans like me. The ball park is beautiful, food options are plentiful, attractive extras like post-game fireworks are frequent, & attendees are usually cheerful & pleasant to be around. My family typically attends a few games each season, & we always enjoy ourselves. Going as a group is a terrific outing for a church group
Kathryn Sobel — Google review
We love love the ballpark. Lots of parking garages. Well managed exterior and interior. Right next to American Tobacco complex. So many food options. Watching the Durham Bulls is quickly becoming my favorite leisure activity
RobertsMom NC — Google review
What a wonderful night of baseball (even thou the Bulls lost😔)! Easy parking at the South lot with prepaid tickets - worth buying ahead. We had dinner at Tobacco Road Sports Cafe above left field. When we were done we just walked through the small gate in the patio - showed our tickets and walked down stairs and into the stands. We were in Section 207 Row T under the overhang which put us between home plate and 3rd base. The stadium was clean with plenty of staff if you needed assistance. Great place for families and anyone wanting a reasonably priced night out to enjoy some ⚾️!!
Diane Mason — Google review
We picked the perfect night for a game on May 11. Slightly cool and low humidity, just perfect for a night out for baseball. And the Bulls started like a rocket with 5 runs in the first including a grand slam. It doesn't get much better. This is still America's pastime with folks of all ages and lots of families. Highly recommend.
Jim Williamson — Google review
We had not been in years. They have added whole new sections to the ball park! Many are suited to those that don't want to sit through a whole game. Great addition. Adds more views of the ball park too.
This night the home team lost but a fun time was still had by all! Hats off for the Durham Bulls! Thanks for autographs and posing for pictures. And thanks for a banging fireworks display!!
Louise Martin-Carpenter — Google review
Great stadium with a good selection of typical ballpark food options. Free admission for military, just show your ID at the ticket window. Parking was $10 at all the parking decks around the area and it was easy to get in and out with minimal traffic or delays.
Warren Korges — Google review
The Durham Bulls is an absolute MUST for anyone passing through the triangle. I've recently seen several games here and can't wait for next season! Food, drinks, and service are all exceptional and the atmosphere is very family friendly.
John-Stuart O'Neill — Google review
Probably one of the best minor league parks and experiences around. I've been to games with my kids over the past few years. This year we hosted 22 5th graders for my son's 11th birthday and the group sales folks were amazing. Highly recommend for birthdays, group parties etc.
Peter Weishaar — Google review
The most beautiful stadium I have ever been to. It is such a fun environment and we have been lucky that the Bulls have also been very good in recent history. Makes going to games even more fun when the home team wins. Also really cool to see players who will almost certainly be playing in the major leagues in just a few years. Even if you don’t live watching baseball, the his is just a fun experience. I highly recommended
Brennan — Google review
One of the best Minor League parks around. Not a bad seat in the house. Besides the usual ball game food, you have got to try the pulled pork bbq and a margarita. Great venue for the whole family.
Damon Taylor — Google review
They are the most iconic minor league team for a reason.
They have their own "Bull Durham" beer available at the grab and go kiosks throughout the park. They also have dollar dog nights on Thursdays. I like to get one of the $10 outfield tickets and just roam around and post up at some of the bar/picnic areas.
The Friday and Saturday night fireworks shows are better than some of the major league parks I've been to. Wool E. Bull is also the best mascot in the league!
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the largest museum of its kind in the southeast and dedicated to natural sciences. It features a collection of 1.7 million specimens from every animal species and is spread across three campuses.
A large, poignant, nicely arranged collection of NC natural history from prehistoric time to now and beyond. So much to read and see and great interactive screens in Building 2 (don't miss going!) The building is really nice and well-planned. Nice customer service. Clean bathrooms. Great for all ages. Free and handicap-accessible. Free parking. In a great area close to other attractions.
Michael Stephens — Google review
This place has definitely improved over the years! It's definitely worth your time going. It's free to enter and the paid events are not expensive at all. The best part is, you could spend all day there and still not see everything! I especially love their dinosaur exhibit. My only complaint is I wish the dinosaur exhibit was larger and more interactive for $10 a person. But I was surprised that they move!
Ariel — Google review
Outstanding museum that continues to thrive and innovate. Currently under construction which is a testament to their constant growth. Big dinosaur stuff on the way! So informative and interactive. The exhibits truly come to life. The museum is free however certain exhibits are ticketed. Membership is less than $100 for families! You can’t beat that. A beautiful place to learn and grow. I highly recommend and look forward to coming back, I’ve been visiting this museum since I was a kid! I admire the progress and look forward to more knowledge and creativity. Stop by when you can!
MJ Worldwide — Google review
What a great museum North Carolina had! I could spent a whole day here just looking how amazing they created the space. It’s spacious,detailed, and neat, and clean. The museum also has special exhibitions to interact with the visitors. With the amount of what they provide, it’s amazing that they don’t charge visitors to enter the museum. It’s a great place to learn and bring kiddos to explore.
They have a cafe if you want to rest a bit and enjoy a cup of coffee while waiting for the kids to explore 😃
Nelly Febrina Kembaren — Google review
This is a free museum that is open to people of all ages. I was so impressed by their collections. It’s a 4-story museum with a breezeway that connects to research labs that are currently in operation. They have interactive exhibits that are so fun for the kids and adults alike. Watch for special exhibits that they are rotating through. Be sure to keep an eye out for some unique finds that are native to North Carolina and even more rare finds that exist only in this museum. The staff is very friendly and helpful!
Maegan Bull — Google review
Loved it. This place was massive and free. Two buildings, one was four floors and the other was three floors it took us about 5 hrs to go though the whole building and see everything. The bug exhibit was amazing especially with the terrariums of live bugs. Sadly the butterfly room was closed but we did see the sloth that was in their and got to watch him eat. They also had live feedings during the week. They also have a nice little Cafe next to the butterfly house on the fourth floor so you can watch the butterflies while eating.
Stephanie Vollmer — Google review
Amazing Place! I took my family here for the first time and had quite the adventure. There are countless things to see and do and I only wish I could've done more. They have almost everything you can imagine in a museum. From the Paleontology Lab to the Living Conservatory, From the Biodiversity Lab to the 3D Cinema, this place has it all. Whether you're taking your kids there to learn something new or just looking for a little bit of nostalgia. No matter the reason, this place certainly has what every adult and child needs.
Jared E — Google review
This museum is in downtown Raleigh and offers a nice variety of things to view and learn about. It is free to get in. The museum also has movies and special exhibits that require payment. Some of the areas close sooner than others. However, whether young or old, this place has something to educate anyone of any age. It is two buildings with multiple floors. There is a parking deck close by to park in, and it's just a short walk to the entrance.
Lettie C — Google review
First of all, this place is educational. Probably will learn more here than from a teacher. Second, it’s entertaining and can brighten your schedule. Lastly, it’s free, which makes it a wonder without any price that you have you pay. Located in the heart of Raleigh, this place is a must for any visiting people.
Harvey Shao — Google review
Very impressed with the amount of exhibits considering the admission is free. My small children loved it. Worth the visit and your donations. The staff at the Microbe viewing station were awesome. They let me 3 year old use a microscope. He loved every second of it. Very knowledgeable and engaging.
Robert K — Google review
We took our kids here while on vacation in North Carolina. They had such a great time looking at the dinosaur models. I was very impressed that such a neat place was free to visit. You can tell that all of the models were very expensive and well made. My favorite part was learning about space and all of the space rocks they have on display. They also have a really pretty butterfly botanical garden that is also home to a sloth. Sadly this area was closed to visitors being able to go inside. Overall a 5/5 experience, perfect for learning! I can't wait to go back when the kids are a little older and can really appreciate what it has to offer.
Angelica Denham — Google review
Little disappointed that alot of the interactive labs and displays weren't working on the nature side. We originally went here 5 years ago and now again in 2023. As an adult nothing has changed much. Kids enjoyed it as they were to young to remember our first visit. If you do want to do labs do them first as they close at 3.
michael newman — Google review
What an amazing place!! Lots of natural science exhibits from reptiles to dinosaurs with great staff available to answer questions and help with the hands-on displays. Something for all ages from toddlers to adults and there is no cost to get in to see the exhibits. There are some things like movies and such that do have a charge, but with everything to see on multiple levels, we didn't have a need to see any of that. Every time I come to North Carolina, I am more impressed with the states commitment to quality of life for the residents here, and this free museum is a great example.
Tom Holley — Google review
Great museum! We spent about an hour there but could have spent the whole day. Lots of exhibits to check out, and lots to learn. There were lots of families walking around and enjoying the experience! They have some dinosaurs, spiders, bugs, geology, history, etc. very well laid out among the 4 floors with a cafe on the fourth floor. There is also a Sloth that you may be lucky enough to see like we did!
Jason Martin — Google review
Free admission. Worth your time. 5 floors of a very diverse exhibition. Very kid friendly. Cafe on the 4th floor for a quick snack. Bathrooms everywhere. Easy to navigate. Loads of parking nearby.
Staff is very friendly, the mood is great. Variety of live animals (bugs, butterfly, etc)
Must visit in Raleigh. Also a great alternative to
Marbles just down the road.
Brian “CoFii” Adams — Google review
Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, this museum is an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a weekday excursion with kids. It boasts an impressive collection of live insects on the top floor, other floors included snakes such as copperheads, cottonmouths, rat snakes, and other snakes commonly found in North Carolina. The dinosaur exhibits were a big hit with the children.
We also decided to explore the spider exhibit, but I wouldn't recommend it. There are far more captivating displays and a 3D film to enjoy elsewhere.
What's even better is that there's no admission fee, and the place wasn't crowded during our visit. I wholeheartedly recommend this museum for families, kids, or anyone with a passion for spending quality time exploring.
Parking is available in public areas, and even on a weekend, we found ample street parking.
Ajesh Rn — Google review
We go to this museum all the time! We have never been during Bugfest. It was absolutely amazing!! One of the ladies that work there told us it’s the biggest event of the year. They offer several insects for you to see and touch, they also have lots of vendor set ups outside, you’ll get to see people dressed up in costumes, face painting, and just a lot of education on the several different kinds of insects . My kids loved it. We had so much fun and look forward to going next year.
Shonda T. — Google review
the museum is rich in exhibits 3 or 4 floors, for all ages. About 2 hr walk through. You are your own tour guide. Best part is its no cost at all. You'll learn a bit of history on wildlife and science. The dinosaur exhibit was pretty cool. I was to scared to get in there with the butterflies though, it would be a nice experience if you aren't squirmish like me. Quite fascinating. Something fun to do if you're already in the area. I wouldn't suggest traveling more that 2 hours to get here. I don't like that there's certain life wildlife displayed in cases that aren't the appropriate length requirements for them to thrive in. I hope they are taken out at night or something, but don't believe they are. But overall all great experience.
Courtney — Google review
Fun and educational place with lots of great exhibits. It was surprise for us knowing the museum is absolutely free to the public. Clean and very well maintained place. They also have canteen with good sandwiches and other snacks. Our favourite section was butterfly dome where we saw several species of butterflies. Love to visit this place again.
The North Carolina Museum of Art is a world-renowned art museum located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The museum attracts more than two million visitors annually and houses a permanent collection spanning 5,000 years. The museum also features traveling exhibits and an outdoor monument park and amphitheater.
What a nice community resource! The grounds are lovely. This is both an indoor and outdoor experience. The West Building has the permanent collection, and it's very decent with a few big names (Raphael, Monet, Rodin). Loved that everything is free. Lots of outdoor space designated for events and short walks/hikes.
Michael Stephens — Google review
Gorgeous place! We usually go there to walk outside and there is lots of space to spread out from other people. What I especially love is that the grass is all natural (not an urban desert like many people’s lawns) and they have wild flowers planted throughout the area. Not only the wild environment looks absolutely stunning but it also supports bees and other insects. If you look closely, the grass has wild clover mixed in which is a native flower and feeds rabbits and other wildlife plus it’s drought resistant and stays green all summer long. It doesn’t grow long so you don’t have to mow as often if at all. We need more (or all) lawns to be natural to support our wildlife. Plus it’s healthier for people too.
Another great thing - the NC Museum of Art is dog-friendly! There is a creek in the woods so dogs can quench their thirst there if you forgot water. I recommend all people who are travelling and need a place to stop and stretch their legs and give a break to their dogs/kids to stop at this place! Take advantage of this beautiful place and don’t forget to take pictures!
Love this place! Breathe fresh air not pesticides!
Katya ????? — Google review
Amazing outdoor art in rolling hills where one can picnic, fly kites etc. New building is big glass metal one, old is brown one. Both incredible with insane amount of very famous art. Great to go hang out and do own sketches/art of what you see or feel. They have wee seats one can borrow as well a wheelchairs and walkers for those with impairments
Amanda Babuin — Google review
Beautiful museum. We came for the Dutch Art exhibit- it was spectacular. I generally prefer 1-2 hours at the museum, here I was happy to stay for several hours to take it all in and I’d happily return. Our local family purchased memberships which seem really worth it. Cafe was decent- great cappuccino, sandwiches were not bad, salad had great dressing. The outdoor grounds are beautiful and lots of fun for kids and adults!
elana woolf — Google review
This place is free all throughout the week The common ground is the free access. there are paid parts of the museum there are paid exhibits. But there is enough there to view for 3 hours of free fun and that's not including outside or reading all of the notes we came in about 12:00 and still left as they were closing. We had a great time. There are also two different buildings that have different exhibits in them. Will definitely be back soon. My favorite part was probably the cigarette machine or the old Roman statues. The cigarette machine has several different artists concept of art. It can arrange from pictures to portraits to sculptures. Definitely read signs around the exhibits some say don't touch some even say do not enter PLEASE READ THE SIGNS AS WE DEFINITELY MADE SOME MISTAKES AS WE WALKED AROUND THE MUSEUM FOR OUR FIRST TIME.
Anthony Conwell — Google review
The entire experience at this museum was exceptional!
Outdoor areas are great, very peaceful and lots of sculptures. There is a lot of walking involved, so wear comfortable shoes.
There are multiple nature trails as well as the outdoor exhibits, they are very relaxing and you can rent a bike. We also had lunch at the cafe and would recommend.
The indoor exhibits are simply amazing! There is something for everyone, from Renaissance portraits to the ancient Egyptian collection to the Roman mosaic to the modern art. There is so much to look at and I would have spent a whole week there wandering around. There is also an interactive area that is fun for little and big kids, and even adults.
Everything about this museum is great, and I would definitely recommend this for any art lover.
Maya Brogan (MayaB) — Google review
This art museum was under construction when we went but they still had a lot to see. We saw the very cool exhibits inside and they have a vending machine to purchase little handmade art pieces, which was a lot of fun and we got some cute things. The best part was the outdoor exhibits. They have amazing architecture and I want to return soon! It is also a great walking track for families and pets. Tons of parking.
Brave Root — Google review
This is a fabulous walking area. Dog and bike friendly too. There are benches and vistas aplenty.
A gorgeous combination of meadow, shady woodlands, pond, hills, and resting spots with large scale sculptures and native floral. There is a lovely bee garden with hives and plenty of healthy activity.
A must if you are in the area. Open dawn to dusk, plenty of parking. Over 5 miles of trails, I didn't even cover half.
The general art museum is free as well, but I didn't have enough time for that.
Sarah B — Google review
Absolutely beautiful museum with stunning outdoor spaces. Saw a family having a picnic and people strolling (and biking) around. I was fortunate enough to see Ruth E Carters exhibit and it was so captivating to see her career accomplishments laid out with thorough background information. The amount of research she does for her costume design is above & beyond. I ran out of time to finish seeing the exhibits in the second building, so I'll have to return!
Roars — Google review
Free admission !! Best museum I have ever been to. There are so much rare ancient pieces in the West building. There’s also a large park outside where you can walk around, or ride bicycle. Huge parking lot with some shaded trees. You can spend the whole day there. Highly recommend it, we really love it there.
Khem Eamolarn — Google review
We had a great time at this museum! We went with a school group with the Expedition School. The focus was on art made by women and on art made of recycled and found objects. The NC Art Museum offered a excellent docent who taught us about many of the works on display. Our teacher had worked with the museum in advance to create a scavenger hunt for the kids to find the art that will fit into their future science, ELA and Art projects. I’ve been to this museum many times before on my own, but I really appreciated how they handled having a slew of middle school kids trying to navigate their assignment. Excellent space and we loved the art!!
Amy Gelber — Google review
An awesome experience if you're looking for something free to do during the week. The art selection is diverse so I feel like there is something for everyone. Take a moment to enjoy the artwork and then head outside for a walk around the museum park pathways. Any day of the week you will find locals going for walks, having picnics, or hanging out with friends.
Renee Adamonis — Google review
Easily one of the most incredible museums I’ve ever been to! Top 5 for sure. Such a hidden gem. Really thoughtful curation, juxtaposing contemporary & classical art with interesting text. Gorgeous space. Epic permanent collection.
Miriam Carothers — Google review
This place is free? I just don't understand how this huge place is free for all to enjoy. Amazing grounds, fun sculptures, interactive art,nature beautifully maintained, extensive walking trails... I could go on about the unique gem that this place is, but instead I say go see for yourself.
All the amenities too, free parking, access to a cafe, bicycle rental, great places to relax and take a break.
The only thing that it might be worth knowing before going is if you mainly want to stay indoors call before you go, on our particular visit the west building was closed and the east building has a large number of exhibits getting redone, so if you plan was not to be outside and walking around talking it all in you may not have enjoyed it as much as there would be limited things to see.
Simi — Google review
We went to see one exhibit and quickly realized we should have allowed more time to see the rest of the museum. Loved Afrofuturism. We also had tickets to the outdoor concert featuring Samara Joy. Rain was predicted for the day and hours before the concert was to start I got an email that arrangements were made to change the venue indoors. Brilliant! Bravo to the museum and staff for making this happen.
ericha thompson — Google review
This is a great thing to explore with your family in Raleigh. They have a lot of knowledgeable staff that works here as well. There is a never ending amount of things you can learn about in these museums. It’s very clean and very cool. It is also free entrance so if you have a big family and looking for something cheap/free to do. I would highly recommend the art and science museums!
In the science museum there is a live butterfly exhibit!!
Anna Fox — Google review
We honestly only walked around outside. But it is a beautiful stroll with plenty to see, read, and do. You can bring your little ones and see sculptures and nature combined for free. It was a great walk on a fall day.
Ariel Smith — Google review
Came here with my boyfriend about a month ago and had a great time. Their were two different buildings, one consisting mainly of art, and the other with a dining area, store, and more art. There were also several outside areas to explore. All the art was very unique and engaging. I would like to mention, their is no admittance fee or anything, unless you want to view the private room. Would definitely like to come back and see more of what the outdoor areas have to offer.
Lilie Wilkinson — Google review
Art in bloom was spectacular! My nephew blessed me with behind the scenes experience. A lot of work, but worth every smile you saw!
Rosa Tilley — Google review
A multifaceted place with both indoor and outdoor options. It was just a tad cold for us, so we did not explore the trails (but would very much like to.) It definitely seemed like a regular destination for local folks to visit for outdoor walks with families and with their dogs!
Inside it has both the formal/historical, and the more current/local, types of exhibits —in the west and east buildings, respectively.
The range of the formal presentations is impressive (I.e., African, European, American, Egyptian). Also, their use of unified/simplified large digital touchscreen displays is both very attractive (less clutter) and very effective. They have even used technology to make ordering food at the restaurant/cafeteria easy, right from your seat. Pretty cool.
Being slightly out of town makes them easy to get to and easy to park, all for free.
If you like museums at all, this is an easy choice to be sure to include in your visit to Raleigh.
e baerwald — Google review
Awesome museum. Today, I visited the park that's next to the museum. It's prom season, kids flying kites and dogs being walked on a gorgeous 70 degree day.
Norika Fisher — Google review
For a free place to visit it was outstanding. I was shocked to see so much art from so many different places and times. Requires quite a lot of time to properly enjoy it all. Nice grounds too, for a good walk
Alex Voronov — Google review
This museum is amazing. We didn't realize how big it was, and came after 12 pm on a Saturday and only had time for the West building. We came back on Sunday and spent the whole day doing the East building and outdoors. You can easily spend days here. There's so much to look at, and the paths outside are great, mostly all paved, and extensive.
The bathrooms are clean, and each building has a free locker area to lock up your jackets/bags while you're walking around.
Dani Drugan — Google review
Absolutely stunning. I was impressed, both by the exhibitions and the park. You'll need a full day if you really want to delve into the collections. The staff is extremely friendly and the lighting is most of the time ideal, which really stimulates our contemplation of the pieces of art on display. Plus we were warmly welcomed, we really appreciated the passion that the staff showed.
Leopold Bouzard — Google review
From history to modern art, paintings to sculptures, metal to fabric, visuals to audio, indoor and outdoor - here's a little of everything! Must visit for a rejuvenating experience. Choose a day when the temperatures are comfortable for a long walk outdoors to make the most of your day
Sneha H S — Google review
Visited during my first time in Raleigh and I was blown away by the quality and the quantity
of art on display. While the more contemporary artists were my favorites (especially Kehinde Wiley's Judith and Holofernes), there are also ancient and classical works as well. That includes a few Monet paintings, a Botticelli, and others.
Rain prevented us from checking out the sculpture garden, but I'd love to go back and see it on a future visit. The café and gift shop were nice as well. The best part is that admission is free!
Hal Hughes — Google review
A museum that hits WAY above its weight. 🎨 10/10 worth going, not least because it's 🆓! (Donation suggested) Great variety of art. It has a surprising amount of antiquities too. It's a beautiful place to take a stroll around the museum grounds.
Located in downtown Raleigh, Pullen Park is home to a carousel, miniature train, and many other attractions for the whole family to enjoy. It has been in operation since 1887 and is one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States.
Beautiful park with a large playground for kids of all ages. The train around the park was more fun than I thought and great for taking pictures. There is also a place to eat and a carousel here as well, and plenty of restrooms. You can even take a paddle boat out on the lake!
Anthony Ferguson Jr — Google review
Beautiful public park with a great history. The old rides are really nice. I love how they have preserved the carousel, It feels like stepping back in time. Very family friendly with lots of activities. The rides I felt were reasonably priced at $2 each.
Liam Dobbie — Google review
This park is beautiful! Love the different types of activity you can do with your kids. The playground is huge and if you want to go for a nice walk, they have various paths you can do that with. Definitely recommend for a nice family day!
Kaini Feller — Google review
Amazing park rides are so dang cheap… kids will have a lot of fun.. each ride is like $2 to $4.
We went on a weekend and the park was crowded.. but all the rides are fun.. my kid love the carasol..
We went on the boat ride and it was super hot that day.. save your energy if you want it boat ride.. they give you 30 mins but you will be done in 15 mins..
The train ride takes you around the park which give you a good view of the park..
You can buy tickets online and no need to wait in line for the tickets.. Park is small and easy to walk around.. which I really like and you dnt get tired…
Vinay K — Google review
What a great park! I was in town and wanted a park to go to with the weather being so nice and I saw that there was a lot of reviews for this one and I decided to check it out! It was AMAZING! My daughter absolutely loved how versatile that park was! The coolest part of the park had to be the Marry-go-round! The paths are paved so they are stroller friendly. There was a lot of shade and places to sit and have lunch. There was even a little food hut in the park! We didn’t eat there but many people did! The coolest part was the music that was playing near the restrooms, gave retro vibes to the area and made you feel like you stepped back a few decades
Jaclyn Kliest — Google review
Great!!! Awesomely beautiful park. Great views, great breeze. Good for family, couple ‘s day. A day with the kids. Picnic. Anything. If you visit NC you HAVE TO VISIT THIS PARK. Super recommended
L — Google review
Very beautiful peaceful park with gorgeous nature and playgrounds. Cool thing that it’s close to the city and can be easily driven to in 15 minutes. Haven’t been there at the busiest , parking was really easy to find . There is a beautiful small lake on premises as well . Overall pretty park for relaxing
Dmitry Trishkin — Google review
Pullen Park is North Carolina’s oldest public park, and the 5th oldest operating amusement park in the US.
There are lots of flowers and gorgeous landscaping to enjoy while strolling around the park.
And there is a little train you can ride that circles the park.
The real highlight here however is the Gustave A. Dentzel Carousel which dates back to 1911. I may or may not have pushed some children aside to make sure we got on the cats! There were also giraffes, goats, bunnies and of course plenty of horses. Took me right back to childhood. Well worth the $2 ticket price.Swan shaped paddle boats are also available for rent. Plus plenty of play areas for kids and some other interesting things to see like a retired train car.
David Ethridge — Google review
Randomly stopped after noticing this park as we drove past. Very pleasant discovery for us. A historical park, with wonderful landscaping, paved paths, rides, fountains, playground, and signage for the history. We were too late for the attractions to be open, but everything was beautiful.
William ?Maclind? Coley — Google review
Pristine park within the city of Raleigh NC. It is beautifully landscaped around ancient trees. It has plenty of paved pathways and bridges with benches and seating areas to enjoy the beauty from. There is plenty to do. You can ride a train, a carousel and paddle boats. There are picnic areas and playgrounds for toddlers to older children.
Eagle Mountain — Google review
We had such a good time at Pullen Park. I enjoyed riding in a paddle boat; you will see beautiful scenery around the park while paddling. There’s no long wait on weekday afternoons. The park offers many attractions for kids and families, including carousels, a train, paddle boats, and playgrounds. There are also some picnic areas, or you can enjoy walking around, and tickets are not expensive.
Nook Hanklang — Google review
This is a 5 star park but only gave it 4 star due to lack of parking spaces. Otherwise beautiful serene peaceful park with natural beauty surrounding it. Definitely highly recommend taking the train!
MindfulLiving Bellevue — Google review
This is a great park, not just because of the attractions and play area, but the history also. It makes it all the more enchanting. The train and the historic carousel absolutely delight my toddler, as do the paddle boats. Be prepared to wait if you go on a weekend, though. There's pretty much no wait on weekdays. There's picnic shelters and grills, and a great playground, with stuff for kids of all ages. The concession stand also has great food and treats, and the restrooms are very clean.
Allie Thurkill (Sock Thief) — Google review
Awesome park. There a lot of activities to do for all ages like train ride, playground, carousel, kiddie boat ride, Paddle boat and alot more. Definitely recommended. Buy tickets online to beat the croud. Lots of parking. Clean restrooms. Mist stations & water filling stations located throughout the park. Cafe inside the park.
Deepak P — Google review
A fun park for all ages. Rode the train which runs along the park boundary, it was a short lovely ride. This beautiful park has a lake with fountain and boat riding activity, walking paths, bridges, playing areas, kids activities, carousel, shelters, benches, kiddies boat ride etc. Well maintained restrooms. Parking available but may gets busy on weekends. It has no entry fee but activities are chargeable.
Chanchal — Google review
Had a lovely experience at Pullen Park over Labor Day weekend. We were able to ride the train, carousel and Kiddie boats. The cost is $2 per ticket and it's easiest to use your smartphone to buy tickets in advance. There are several different playground areas all designated to fit different ages. Gorgeous flowers and plants. Beautiful landscaping. They also have paddle boats for rent and a nice walking trail around the lake.
Chelsy L — Google review
Kids love this park! Can’t ask for more. A full playground, a train that you can ride around the park, a carousel, and a concession stand! During the warmer months there’s boats and other activities that we weren’t able to do, while visiting during January but there’s still a good amount of attractions for kids of younger ages.
Park is extremely clean, staff is friendly. A good place to come and take a stroll too. Dogs can’t come into the playground area but it would be a nice place to walk them around the pond.
Katie Bevacqua — Google review
Our favorite park in the triangle! $2 tickets per person for the rides (train, boats, and carousel). And a fun play area for kids. The peddle boats in the pond were not open when we went at the end of March even though it was a warm day.
Allyson Urling — Google review
The park is beautiful and I'm absolutely in love with the cypress trees around the grounds. However, one really big problem that we encountered is that there was music playing over a loud speaker. I imagine that for most kids, that would be fine. Unfortunately for us, my daughter is autistic and music triggers meltdowns. It's a sensory thing. We were trying to walk to the park area to see if we could get her to play a little bit, and as we got closer to the music she got upset and we had to leave. It took over an hour to calm her down. I know that our experience isn't normal, but it would be amazing if more places considered children that aren't neurotypical and maybe could skip the music or have sensory friendly days or times without it. It's so hard to go anywhere outside of our home and parks are usually a safe place.
I don't imagine that we'll be back because of this.
That being said, it's a lovely little park and I think most kids would really enjoy it.
Holly — Google review
Beautiful family park. There is 3 mins train ride, kids boat ride, carousal within park.
Manoj Jagtap — Google review
a beautiful place to walk around… the train ride was $2/person - if you go during the week, the wait isn’t long at all.
the big swans are picture worth as well.
the playground looked great, but we didn’t have anyone with us to test it!
Brittani Atkins — Google review
Excellent place to bring the family.Clean and well kept. Lots to do and the employees were super friendly and helpful. Carousel, train, paddleboats and a kiddie boat ride. The playgrounds are awesome too!
Dina Hanson — Google review
We came here in mid February. The playground is very crowded yet a place to cool down. Train ride is entertaining with kids, and the same with the carousel. At this time, the carnival games were closed, but I’m sure they are as good as everything else. A great way to relieve your kids, and having fun yourself at the same time.
Simple rooms in a Mexican-themed resort with a theme park & a sombrero-shaped observation tower.
Keep on coming back to this wonderland. I Love it and my grandchildren do too. Love the Dog run by the Public restrooms. My dog enjoyed the freedom it had being able to drink water and do his business with out a leash.
Public restrooms are cleaner than most establishments we visited. The attendant was very helpful, knowledgeable, and Super Sweet.
South of the Border is a Gem. It offers the little things that makes your life a little easier when traveling. This stop excels where others fail. Hope you enjoy it, as we did.
Blessings to All. Stay safe.
A Gonzalez — Google review
I'm a trucker and didn't do the motel, I did the steak house, the little joint at the fuel desk is no more.. I don't get here often and didn't know it'd closed. The steak house was pricey, compared to what I intended to do. I rarely go to places like that, so I splurged and ordered a porterhouse.. it was prepared perfectly and the baked potato was as good as they come, salted husk etc.. but to be clear.. very clear.. it was a pretty good T-Bone, it in no way was a Porterhouse. If it hadn't been prepared as well as it was and an excellent salad bar I might add, I'd probably have fussed at them, I surely would have written a scathing review as well.. the young lady who waited on me was very pleasant to.. so there you go.. armed with my perspective.. I'll do it again, as a treat.. not a quick meal ever..
Eric Davis — Google review
Stopped in for the night. Our first stay. Stayed in a room adjacent to the outdoor pool. Rooms were bare basic but updated and clean. Shower mat could use a scrubbing and when we came into the room the shower faucet was leaking which they remedied. Our family enjoyed using both the indoor and outdoor pools. Outdoor was a salt water pool and indoor was chlorinated. Both mattresses in our double bed room were not the same. One was older with springs you could feel covered over with a padded mattress topper and the mattress on the other bed was newer and more comfortable or less squeaky. Didn’t realize this until I had put my children to bed in the more comfortable one. I could have slept better.
Overall not a bad stay by any means at a good price point. Really enjoyed the pools!
Gavin Dehler — Google review
South of the Border is in need of some work to upgrade. Yes you can get gas, and yes there is an RV park. But fix the buildings. I bet most of the shops have been there without upgrading from when my mom and dad stopped there when we were children on our way to Homestead, Fla. My dogs have a place to stop and eat. I do appreciate that small luxury.
Reginald Pittman — Google review
My family told me to stop at this place on my way back to Florida and I’m so glad I did. It’s funky and fun, loved it! We shopped for a good hour, so many random things. Everyone left with a free things. Worth the stop!!!
Lacey Elmange — Google review
We got to spend the night at South Of The Border for our first time ever and we have to that we definitely enjoyed our experience.
The check in staff was friendly and helpful. The room was small with no modern conveniences but we didn't need anything like that we were happy to have a place to rest for the night.
It was quiet over night so we got our good night's sleep.
We look forward to coming back again.
Ricardo Alcaraz — Google review
It is not new, nor fancy, but it clean, a reasonable rate, there is plenty to do. The staff was great. The restaurant food, I was only to one location and had a cheeseburger, was cheaper grade. The hamburger patty was one of those patties that was made with every part of the cow, and was small. Again, even in the restaurant, the staff was great. I would definitely stay there a again, but next time I will bring a coffee maker.
Tom O'Malley — Google review
Our first time trying this place and it was nice. The room was clean. The bed and pillows very comfortable. The water was very hot for baths and showers. They also have a nice heated pool! Check in and check out was pleasant. It is a motel so you do hear noise from outside people and cars. The Peddler Steakhouse was great and the ice cream shop at Sombrero room was yummy.
Mary Nelson — Google review
During our family annual 1000 mile road trip to and from Florida...South of the border is always a welcome site and indicator that we are half way there! The lights and sight always brings excitement. With plenty of food, souvenir shops and I must mention CLEAN bathrooms (which are always a huge plus when you really have to Gooooo...this is a must pit stop to refuel, re-energize and to stretch weary legs.
Lawrence haliday — Google review
Gas was very affordable and the customer service was excellent! Bathrooms are always so clean! Great place to make a pit stop! Never had the food but I've heard great things. The souvenir shops are awesome as well. Everyone is so friendly!
Golden Goddess — Google review
We got there super late into the night. The front desk was helpful and sweet. She hooked up us with accommodation that were right for our party and the taste was completely affordable.
The bed was comfortable and the pillows were soft. Not very long after climbing into bed, I was sound asleep.
My only regret was that we were unable to stay longer and explore more.
JeniBean79 — Google review
In my opinion, this place is stuck in the 70's. The past 4 times we've stoped here gave us an Erie feeling. It was always empty, I mean the whole place, felt alone no matter what time we stopped there. It was like entering an abandoned town that you just want to hurry up and get out of there quickly. If you like going back in time, this is for you
Mark Bruno Domina — Google review
So, we have driven past S.O.B for years and never had the opportunity to visit or stay, well that changed last night. We couldn't resist the lights and lore of this famous roadside landmark.
I reserved online for a standard King room, approximately $107 with 50% down with deposit. When I received my email confirmation, it said that "check in time is 3pm" and "after 7pm, the reservation will be released", so I called the desk to inform them we wouldn't be arriving until 8:30pm or so. When we arrived, the reservation was still there. We paid the balance at check-in. The room was a decent size, clean with tile floor (no carpet). Only one side of the bed had an accessible outlet for charging phones. And a mattress upgrade wouldn't be a bad idea, IMHO The Sombrero restaurant was open until 11pm. Very clean, good hot food, and very friendly staff. After dinner, we went into Polanco's Bar, which was also open until 11pm. Tasty margaritas and friendly bartender. In the morning, we returned to the Sombrero for breakfast, again, good hot food and friendly wait staff. Next stop was Reptile Lagoon, because that was on our travel list (to see alligators). There's a lot to see in there, and for only $8/adult, you can't beat the price.
Jennifer Ann Warner — Google review
Place was spacious, nice and clean. The TV was kinda small for the size of the room. They advertise a heated pool but the pool was cold so we didn't spend about 5 minutes in it. If you go after 6 pm every thing was closed except a place that served a little bit of food. If we would have known that there was a Waffle House on the other side of the interstate we would have gone there instead. Other than that a nice souvenir shops and a great fireworks selection.
Paul Saums — Google review
Cool place. Lots of stuff to see if you are passing through. We loved the Reptile Lagoon. Nicely kept, well fed and fun to look at. Tons of different species! super cheap and a fantastic place to stretch your legs!
R Berg — Google review
Nice safe tourist trap of a small town. I really couldn’t find any negatives for the price I paid. Room was spacious compared to many motels, every room has a parking spot in front of it, no pet fee was a big plus for me. Service was very friendly and professional. Overall a good place to stay if you need to stop and sleep along 95. Would come back for sure.
Abraham Castillo — Google review
I haven't been here since I was a kid, and I don't think it's changed at all. The only criticisms I have is that tiles are cracked in the rooms and a lot of the decor is aged... It's dated, yes, but that's the allure. It's also aged and could use some repair... But it's still wonderful. The staff was friendly, rates are cheap, the room was very clean and even pet-friendly. Absolutely loved the place, would definitely recommend to anyone passing through
Scott LaCroix — Google review
My husband brought me here 7 years ago for the first time, for me, and this was the 2nd with our kids. It is a great souvenir spot. It is a little outdated, but the souvenirs are good, and there are a lot of them. There are several businesses here. Some are food, and some are just souvenir shops. It is a great place for the kids to see and take pics. It's located around Florence, SC.
Carrie Willeford — Google review
The updated rooms are nice. The room we stayed in last night was outdated, but clean. The water in the tub ran all night though. (Not a trickle, it ran. Would not shut off.) We got in too late to really care though. (We just kept the bathroom door closed so we didn't hear it.) The employees are very friendly and the prices are reasonable as well. There's lots to do on the area as well.
Karen Hannis — Google review
Hotel stay was sub-par, we got in so late, no energy to really complain. Hotel staff secured us an “updated” accommodation, however the room itself left a lot to be desired. Hotel pricing was very reasonable, but, may not be worth just sleeping in your truck. Walls are paper-thin, shower water pressure and heat were meh. Truck parking is ample if you get there early enough. Best joint on the compound is “Polanco’s Bar” by and far, Michelle is a sweetheart. We’ve eaten at “The Peddler Steak House” several times, it’s just OK, price point high for what it is (but not much else in the area for “home-cooked” style meal)
T. Nguyen — Google review
We are there off-season, so I'm sure that's why there were no crowds. The places a little bit dated. However, however, it is absolutely sweet. The shops the gift shops, wonderful merchandise, very authentic stuff. Prices are more than reasonable staff and all the locations are great. I hope this place that's better with a little bit of investments of money. A few different rides and attractions. This place would be a destination point all year round.
Thomas Rooney — Google review
Everything was very clean, staff was friendly and the food was very good.
Kinda got stuck here because we had the rig and were just too tired to drive any further, but we ended up being pleasantly surprised. Dinner at the steak house was excellent (really didn't expect that), breakfast at a different restaurant was very good and was 20% off for booking a room.
The rooms were just fine. They even came with their own little car ports. They each have 2 doors. 1 to the car port and 1 to the pool. I wouldn't call it fancy, (it's not supposed to be), but it was clean, the food was great and we had so much fun! (All the statues in various places made for fun pictures.) We will 100% be back on future trips.
Suzie Burns — Google review
We love it here! My family has been staying here often for several years. The staff at the front desk is always extremely helpful and kind. They are pet friendly and make you feel at home here.
SOB is friendly to veterans and military as well as their families. We really appreciate this!
Security patrols the whole place keeping an eye out. There is lots of room to walk around and look at all of the neat attractions. Several places to eat, including a fancy steakhouse.
For the price it can’t be beat! Rooms are spacious, but basic. Some have refrigerators and coffee pots but others do not. You would have to ask when you check in.
Two nice pools are available to you.
Pit Bull Mama — Google review
This has been a half way poit when driving to flordia. Everytime we go the bathrooms are horrendous the workers in there complaining about how it's not worth working there which it shows because the hand dryers don't work and honestly has become a place I don't want to stop by anymore. Yeah shops are nice but really hope they update this place soon I remember being a kid and it was full of life but not anymore.
Joanna Gardner — Google review
Stopping by South of the Border was an unexpected blast from the past, triggering a flood of childhood nostalgia from those classic I95 road trips. This iconic roadside attraction is more than just a pit stop – it's a journey through time, filled with quirky charm and vibrant colors that transport you back to simpler days.
From the towering Pedro statues to the neon signs and souvenir shops, every corner of South of the Border is steeped in history and Americana. It's impossible not to feel a sense of excitement and wonder as you explore this roadside oasis, rediscovering beloved attractions like the Sombrero Tower and the Reptile Lagoon.
Whether you're reliving old memories or creating new ones, a visit to South of the Border is an experience like no other. So next time you're cruising down I95, make sure to take a detour and immerse yourself in the magic of this timeless roadside gem!
-Marisa Balletti-Lavoie
Marisa B — Google review
Wonderful place and area to stop to visit while traveling. Seems like little mexico. Wonderful shops, food and accessibility. Something to keep the whole family entertained while you relax ,stretch out, and unwind on your brief break from your travels. GREAT REST STOP!!!
James James — Google review
Rooms were spacious but creepy, dark and wet feeling. Clean but oddly uncomfortable. Front desk was polite. No cdl discounts despite being right next to truck stop. $107 for a room. Just not worth the money. This poor place is just a “has been”. They have soooo many rules posted for everything that it seems like it would take the fun out of the place. Would not return.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is a family-friendly zoo with African and Australian animals, reptile galleries, a bird house, a farm, and botanical gardens. The zoo features a splash pad with rubber surfaces that has been upgraded in the summer. There are also playhouses, treehouses, a large field with toys and games, a waterfall and 2 splash pads.
Riverbanks zoo reminds of Animal Kingdom set in good old Disney World without the financial hard ship going there. Riverbanks is simply an amazing zoo. I would recommend setting aside 3-4 hours to see everything, this of course is set with a two old in mind. We stopped and saw just about everything and even petted some very friendly goats. Some stuff does cost extra, $20 on the zoo card will be more than enough for two children.The giraffe feeding stops at 1:30pm so if that is on your agenda I would get in line early. We went on a Sunday and the crowds were not too bad. We will definitely become frequent visitors. 10/10 I highly recommend.
Tai Sanders — Google review
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is fabulous! We absolutely love it here and have been visiting regularly for 10+ years. The animal variety is second to none. The layout of the zoo flows very nice to ensure you can enjoy each stop to see all that it offers during your visits. The staff do a great job of keeping the zoo very clean and safe. They are very, attentive, and provide excellent service every time we are there. The expansions keep coming and continue improving and evolving this Zoo into one of the best visits you and your family can make.
If I was going to provide a critique, I would recommend more fans through out the park. South Carolina (especially in the midlands) can get very hot and humid during the summer months and that heat can make visiting the park a less than pleasant experience if you are not use to the heat down here (heck even if you are 😂). More fans through out the park would add to the already amazing atmosphere and help create some more much needed cool zones through out.
One last add. Please visit during the Halloween and Christmas events. They are fantastic and highly recommended. For adults the Brew at the Zoo is one of the best attractions around. Enjoy!
Jacob Gillen — Google review
This was an amazing experience! The $5 parking is worth it if you are wanting to go to the botanical gardens/splash pad first or last on your visit. The prices were fair for adults at $26 for how big of a zoo it is! There were some of every animal including giraffes you can feed, a kangaroo exhibit you can walk through, and sea lions you can stand next to. Animals included monkeys, gorillas, lions, tigers, snakes, birds of all kinds, goats, alpacas, bears, otters, tortoises, penguins, tropical fish, jellyfish, sea turtles, koalas, sloths, and so much more. I even tried out the ropes course within the zoo (requires shoes w/ heel strap) which was priced at $7 for non-members. It was a good ropes course for the price! I do recommend having a parent or older sibling go up with a younger child if they're new to ropes courses. The height can be a fear factor and the way the harness is attached to the top of the course can make it harder for smaller kids to reach in order to move around the course. As an adult, it's a fun add-on especially if you're looking for some more thrill with your zoo experience. The botanical gardens were gorgeous! They were located right next to the $5 parking and the tram. Overall, I really enjoyed visiting the Riverbanks Zoo and all of the staff here were polite and happy.
Michelle Luna — Google review
Wild Nights was awesome! Really looked great from the front gate fungi/coral to the animated creatures. Went on Black Friday with family in town for the holidays. Highly recommend buying tickets in advance as another group mentioned it was already sold out when we arrived right after 5pm. The kids loved that the train and carousel were both running.
The person at the gate was very helpful as we had multiple ticket purchases across several confirmation emails. Would definitely go again.
Jeremy Lane — Google review
A place where families can come and witness animals from around the world in a protected and safe environment. The Riverbanks Zoo rescues animals from around the globe to rehabilitate them and care for them with such love. The zoo is filled with a variety of animals ranging from tigers, lions, gorillas, and birds from all countries. This place is clean, family friendly, and caters to all ages. If you're ever in Columbia, SC, I would definitely recommend this place for a fun family outing. If you wish to take friends, you can purchase yearly passes that give you 4-8 guest passes, depending on your choice of yearly pass.
Alexander Nunez (Alex) — Google review
The zoo is well maintained, clean, and organized.
There’s a $5 dollar fee for the parking and they have plenty of parking spaces.
You can book in advance “behind the scenes” to pet some of the animals. (Check their website).
If you go early in the morning you can feed the giraffes.
There are plenty of restrooms around, some of them smell bad and are messy, specially
If the zoo is pretty busy.
The bird part smells bad but is just the smell of the birds. Just be aware.
They rent strollers
Gift shop available
They have photographers at the entrance with a giant green screen.
They have an interactive farm for kids, a carousel, and more.
Food and drinks from outside are not allowed.
Veronica — Google review
we love this place! this is my fourth time at the riverbanks zoo, and it's never failed to please. easy access, plenty of parking, affordable ticket prices (I recommend getting the extended bracelet deal, feeding the giraffes is part of it, and it's really worth it). the animals seem to be well taken care of, and if you go earlier in the day, you'll be able to see everyone waking up and hanging out (the otters were especially excited for the sunshine and company). definitely dress comfy and bring plenty of water! there's lots of shade and several drinking fountains, but it was nice to have our own on hand. this was our first time making it up to the gardens, and that was also really worth the trip up. the waterfall splash area is great for the kiddos in the heat. I believe there's a lot on the west side where you can park and the access is much easier for the gardens and play area. all around great time!
Heather Hitz — Google review
The zoo was awesome! There were a lot of nice animals, and the enclosures/habitats were more than adequate for the animals. Healthy animals! My favorite places to visit had the flamingos and the lions. They had a grizzly bear, which I had not seen before. The botanical gardens were nice, as well. Small, but nice. There is a tram that takes you from the zoo to the garden. It took me and my partner about 3.5 hours to do the zoo and the garden.
Mar Pepin — Google review
I visited her in the spring, and it was fantastic. We enjoyed feeding the giraffes. We were able to get up close to the gorillas even though their enclosure is going through renovations. I loved the sea lion exhibit. The aquarium had just recently opened back up and was super crowded. We were not able to check that out, but it looked super nice from the outside. My daughter and nephew loved all the activities this zoo offers. This zoo is very well kept, and the animals looked happy and healthy.
Marsha Dowdle — Google review
Went this past week with my nieces (1 yo) and they had a blast. There are lots of exhibits and we saw all of them and stayed for about 2 hours total. We were able to see all of the animals except the tiger(s). My nieces especially loved the aquarium and the penguin exhibit. We got to see them performing maintenance/cleaning in one of the aquarium tanks which was pretty cool. Also got to see a couple of young gorillas nursing. I would recommend bringing some bug spray and sunscreen. There’s a lot of tree cover and canopies at exhibits providing shade throughout the park but there are also areas in direct sunlight at many of the exhibits. The park overall was very clean and there was lots to do. Also recommend going during the week/off season as the temperature is cooler so you’re able to see more animals and it is WAY less busy. There were maybe a max of 5 other people at an exhibit with us. Did not see or visit the garden this time, but definitely have plans to visit next time. This was our 2nd time making the trip to this zoo and we will definitely be back!
Faith Lide — Google review
Beautiful and spacious zoo. There are unique animals that live here, that are not at a typical zoo. Lots of shade to keep you cool while viewing the animals. And very, very clean!
The enclosures have lots of space and the animals seemed happy and energetic, compared to other zoos I’ve visited. There are friendly zookeepers posted around the zoo to share interesting information on the animals. They were well informed and were able to answer all the questions we asked. My favorite part was visiting the Kangaroos. You are able to actually go inside the enclosure (while staying on the path) to view the kangaroos from a short distance without any fence or obstruction blocking your view. The experience felt up close, but was a safe distance away.
We enjoyed the trek up the trail to the garden through dense trees that felt like it’s own separate space from the zoo. The garden is well taken care of and has a calming atmosphere. We then rode the tram back down the trail where we were brought back to the zoo. It is nice the facility offers the tram at no extra cost.
Overall, we had a great time! This is probably my favorite zoo now.
Gabi Bambach — Google review
I visited with my kids here during the Christmas holidays. The weather was pleasant.
There was no wait line at the ticket counter.
The charges for kids and adults are almost the same.
It's not very big zoo but there are lots of animals and well maintained.
There are more than one lion, tiger, orangutan and many more.
There are different animal talk times for more information.
With special bands you can go near few animals like giraffe, feed birds and play games.
Sometimes the layout gets confusing but it's small enough to trace the steps back.
The alligator 🐊 was not there.
There are lots of picnic tables.
I could go near kangaroo 🦘.
Zoo rangers are always nearby and helpful with information or directions.
There are many eating outlets.
It's a good to spend with kids.
Archie — Google review
The zoo was pretty big, and had a good selection of animals. Compared to other zoos I've visited, it was ok. Animals were on the smaller size, and the one grizzly bear we saw looked like he had mange (fur was patchy in several places). The plus for me was that you can take the free tram to the botanical gardens which was included in the ticket price. That was my favorite part. Walking through the gardens was a nice outing, and there were places with seating, food, activities, and a splash park for kids. Overall I enjoyed it.
Tonya — Google review
I would recommend getting here EARLY and leaving before 1-2pm. It gets extremely busy after lunch time, but aside from that I had a wonderful time! I had to bring my service dog with me and the staff were respectful and understanding! There are some places you aren’t allowed to go with a service animal but that is understandable and totally fine! Bathrooms were kept clean and smelled fine, there wasn’t trash or debris everywhere. The animals confinements looked clean and well taken care of which was a favorite of mine! I will say it took a while to get our food when we went up to a food truck. This was at lunch time and the place was getting pretty crowded by then. I had an absolute blast here and will definitely come back.
Jayden Cash — Google review
I dropped in unexpectedly, looking to get some steps in. Lots of trails and flora. Many places to sit and take a load off.
You can walk from the garden to the zoo, it's only 3/10 mile. Zoo was a bit more crowded, but pretty cool....and they sell beer 😁.
Check out Saluda Ruins, BEAUTIFUL walk and an interesting story. I was there for about 2 hours and got in my 10k steps.
Erik Summers — Google review
Well worth the visit! I went with my wife and 2 kiddos, oldest is 9. We really liked the aquarium with a wide variety of up close exhibits. The ocean exhibit had numerous "Coming Soon" attractions. Note that to ride the carousel or do the climbing wall, you must buy extra tickets like at a carnival, but the prices are not ridiculous. When we went, the carousel cost $2 per ride. We also let our daughter try the high ropes obstacle course. This was another fee ($7 per person) but well worth it. Mom and Dad enjoyed the bridge and trails to the botanical gardens, which was included with the zoo admission. Great family outing!
Jarrod Reed — Google review
Free zoo map is available. I was able to see all the animals so close. Was also able to feed a giraffe and brush the goats. They are very cute. Don't forget to get some merchandises too on the way to the parking lot.
Andita Meilyana — Google review
I've always loved the zoo, and now I get the joy of taking my girls. I do suggest a membership as it pays for itself and tickets are pricey but it's worth it. We usually take snacks with us and we have the souvenir cups. We love doing boo at the zoo and the lights at the zoo
Angel Watters — Google review
Such a great place to bring the family to! The kids loved seeing the animals and learning about all them. Love their aquarium area too! So neat to see them all and watch the kids eyes light up with joy over seeing how they live. If you haven’t gone yet I’d strongly suggest going asap!
Danielle Ortega — Google review
Beautiful zoo, kept clean, prices are as you'd expect going to any big park these days. Good food variety, as well as snacks, drinks. Tons of animal exhibits, overall great for the fam & everyone!
Great parking options.
C Price — Google review
Took advantage of the last free Friday for this month. First time at the zoo and was not disappointed. Only spent about 2 1/2 hours but really enjoyed. I pretty much stuck to one side of the zoo this time and will explore the other half later on. Highly recommend. The only thing I wish they had was more food options but I’m not complaining because i know how that goes but I went prepared! Took my own food!
Annie Maiden Gipson — Google review
Very well put together Zoo and Gardens. There is a lot of various animals to see, such as gorillas, giraffes, kangaroos, grizzly bear, sea lions and so forth. I recommend you bring some water for your walk around this zoo you will be doing a lot of walking especially if you want to walk across the pedestrian bridge.
There are a couple different options you can take to get to and from the Zoo side and the Botanical Garden side. One way is taking the Woodland Trail beginning on the garden side. Next would be taking the walking path that runs along the Tram Road it is rather steep. Finally is the Tram with are two Ford Super Duty Pickups with three “wagons” attached behind each pickup it will take you to and from the Zoo side and the Garden side. There however is usually a wait for the Tram. We chose to walk the path along the Tram road.
This Zoo was extremely crowded. It is probably best if you try to go on a weekday. We went on a Saturday it was extremely busy. I highly recommend checking out the gift shop and buying a souvenir. This is one of the best Zoos I have been to.
Jake Young — Google review
We had a great time,animals were cool food was good and wait times were a bit long on a few things but other wise it was great, it’s very nice and nothing is to far apart so it’s not that bad when walking from place to place extra things were very affordable being 2 dollars a person just so you know the zoo does a coin system kind of so if you want to do an extra and you had 3 people it would 6 dollars with each coin being 1 dollar a piece,extras were very cool with the extras being feeding giraffes,feeding birds and other things. I would recommend getting to the zoo as early as possible because it gets crowded very fast you could get to see more things actually moving and running around and that’s just a few things to keep in mind.
Mc Bojangles — Google review
God have us an absolutely perfect day for our visit! It was 75°, partly cloudy, and a gentle breeze. Although it was fairly busy, everyone moved along through all the exhibits quickly. I'd have to say that our group's highlights were feeding the Coconut Lorikeet, walking among the kangaroos, and visiting the botanical garden (took the tram up). It's a great place for kids of all ages. The garden has quite a few play areas of all different themes and many water features. The kids were having a blast in the water activities. They even have a cabana for bathing suit changes. It's a "must see" if you're in the area. We'll be visiting again in the future.
Patricia Vasko — Google review
Came to the zoo in the morning. Most animals were out as breakfast was being served to some of the animals. It was pleasant that the weather was cool, so a light coat or long sleeves did the trick. By the time it was 11 a.m., it warmed up. Not very crowded, it was nice to walk through and take some time to see the animals starting their day. Since it was 9:30 am when I got in, not many food/drink places were available until closer to 11, so I purchased a bottle of water from one of the vending machines and kept exploring. If you're looking for a slower pace to venture, I recommend the morning, I enjoyed it.
Ari George — Google review
"Love taking the kids here! Awesome zoo with aquarium and aviaries. Large habitats are great but animals can be shy. Park lacked water due to a break on a hot day, $4 for water bottles is steep. Offering cheap bottles until boil mandate lifted would've helped. Kids enjoyed feeding birds and the sky high safari was a highlight!"
Cobey Riley — Google review
Riverbank zoo is a all day adventure for the family! I recommend buying tickets online as somedays it's packed here. Always building new and exciting exhibits for the animals. This is definitely a all day trip for all ages. Many many animals to see and multiple locations thay are indoors and cooled when you get too hot. There is also petting zoo areas and small rides like a train and carousel for the little ones. They do sell food and drinks there but they are very very expensive. We bring food and eat it outside on the benches then go back inside.
Tony Goehring — Google review
Riverbanks Zoo is always a fun day for the kids. Even after multiple visits, it never gets old. A great way for the kids to get their energy out. They absolutely love it when Waterfall Junction is open and love the giraffe feeding, too! The grounds and gardens are always beautiful!
Deanna Breivik — Google review
This is a great Zoo. Downside is make sure you get the wristbands to actually participate in feeding the 🦒 and doing a good amount of things the kids will want to do. Downside was we didn't see the large tortoise or many monkeys. There were no cats available to view either as a lot of exhibits were being renovated. The food is definitely not great, everything costs so much these days. Expect to spend at least $160 for a few hours and 2 people. Clean, well staffed and easy to find.
Ree C — Google review
Here visiting for the weekend and came on a Friday. Really enjoyed this zoo! I think it is very kid friendly and has a lot of activities for them to do, not just see the animals. We came at a good time (10 am) so most of the animals were pretty active. We enjoyed seeing the reptiles and Gorillas the most. It was definitely busy that day due to many schools having field trips to the zoo. They only really had snacks around the park, which is expected at a zoo. I do recommend doing to Tuskers if you real food while visiting though. We also really enjoyed walking the Garden trails. I highly recommend checking out this zoo!
Lauren Lowell — Google review
Other than the number of people, we had a great time. The staff was nice and all the animals were out. Can't wait to go on a weekday and be able to take our time watching the animals.
Lydia Dean — Google review
We got there at 1pm and had enough time to stop by most the exhibits, but many of the animals were sleeping. I'd recommend getting there earlier so you can go back to see the animals you missed on the first round. The zoo itself was not very big, so you can easily make a couple laps. The parking lot was hectic when we got there (1pm on a Saturday), but once we got past the entrance, we found many open spots, while others were fighting for closer parking.
Congaree National Park boasts an expansive hardwood forest with abundant opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing and fishing. Volunteer-led programs attract weekend visitors while ranger-led programs are more frequent during peak season. While the educational sections of the park's center are partially closed, numerous items can be purchased at its gift shop. This newly developed park caters to urban enthusiasts and is highly recommended for experiencing the firefly season.
I almost hesitate to review because we LOVED it so much and don't want it to become over crowded. This is one of our favorite hiking spots! The 2.6 Mile boardwalk was easily doable with me and my elementary aged kids. It feels like an adventure but also quite safe and clean. We also picnicked in one of the many, shady spots by the lodge. After lunch we were a bit more adventurous with off boardwalk trails. There are many and they're rated by difficulty with listed distances so you can easily determine what's the best fit for you/your group. The staff was AMAZING! We availed ourselves of the gift shop for a few items. We also picked up our junior ranger books, completed the activities during our adventures, and were then sworn in as junior rangers! Including me ☺️ We got beautiful Congaree ranger badges that absolutely thrilled them. We will return as soon as we are able! It is a little more than 2 hours each way for us and totally worth it!!
Katy Beebe — Google review
A nice national park to go to. The board walk was definitely worth it with a nice raised path and information markers along the way. A good 2.5 mile hike and took about an hour. It is in a swampy area so depending on the time of year might be a little buggy and or muggy; so come prepared with water and bug repellent. But a very nice and easy walk with great information along the way and plenty of wildlife to observe!
Paige Vickers — Google review
Very cool National Park, right here in South Carolina. Swampy and buggy, so bring your bug spray, but its nice to see nature other than beach or mountains - this is how the entire southeastern US looked before Europeans settled here and deforested this brautiful place.
kerri hatcher — Google review
I had never heard of this park before planning this trip, but I am very glad that I went out of my way to come here! Very beautiful park with the informative Boardwalk Trail and easy breezy paths around the visitor center. I'm not much of a hiker, but all the trails in and around the visitor center were very walkable.
An Pham — Google review
Free admission National park. Good for a day-trip hike. They are known for fireflies at night. There are multiple trails to hike. Some were flooded because its low altitude. Park rangers were friendly and helpful. It’s a beautiful and serene park. It’s very close to Columbia, SC. Restrooms were clean. The famous boardwalk was nice and handicap accessible.
Wind Napol — Google review
Went here and did the boardwalk trail, although much of it was flooded, so do be aware of park closures. It is a nice and peaceful walk in nature, although nothing outstanding like many of the other national parks are. Probably wouldn’t go back, unless I lived close by or in the area.
Gabriella — Google review
The park was so popular on the weekends, which included volunteers led programs. The ranger led programs are more concentrated during the peak season. The center was partially closed, mostly educational sections, however, they have a lot of stuff for purchasing and for sales. You could tell that this park is very new and geared towards urban people. I recommend to come for the firefly season. Would love to do kayaking programs with the rangers in this park too. But it's super popular and hard for accessibility.
Aaron Yang — Google review
We've visited many national parks over the years. But this was our first swamp! It was nothing like I'd ever experienced. We went late may, so the weather was perfect, and the mosquitoes were non-existent. We saw a wild hogs body, and several alligators swimming in the distance. The trails are all boardwalks, making it super easy to walk miles around the park.
Naomi Cardoza — Google review
An amazing place. Nice Ada accessible board walk. 2.8 miles. Lots to see with different animals , plants and layouts within a few biomes. Lots of hiking trails. Visitors center.
escott bergren — Google review
We always see something interesting here. This time it was 3 snakes, 4 turtles, and tons of fish. There are lots of trails and they are well marked, but it is easy to get off trail if you are not careful. Staying on the boardwalk is great with small kids. We always see water snakes in the summer, but this time we saw a Cottonmouth and a Rattler. Check the website before you go - sometimes it is flooded and only a few trails will be open.
Beth McK — Google review
Little known National Park that offers a lot of natural history of area vegetation and native wildlife. Great walking paths. The 2.5 mile boardwalk offers easy walking but not much to offer for younger kids.
Larry Taylor — Google review
This place was amazing. Part of the boardwalk was flooded about 4-8 inches which made for a really cool barefoot hike ! Weather was perfect (end of march) and this place was just beautiful. Lots of little reptiles and massive trees (100+ft) very simple hike on the boardwalk. Even saw someone with an electric wheelchair out there. Absolutely recommend this place!! And entry is free !!!
Jonathon Hutton — Google review
Took my sisters here for their first hike and their first National Park trip, and they had an absolute blast. The rangers were super kind and helpful, the hikes we found were easy to follow (especially for first-timers), and the place is absolutely gorgeous. Would definitely recommend for camping as well.
It is safe to say that I have successfully recruited them into the world of collecting National Park cancellation stamps, and it's largely due to the great time exploring this awesome park.
Aniyah Pendleton — Google review
Great hidden gem! I took my young kids and we did the boardwalk trail. Felt very safe clean and sturdy for being in a swamp. It was so peaceful. Park ranger was very friendly and informative. Will definitely come back when the weather is more cooperative to explore the other trails!
Sara Miskin — Google review
It is such a shame this is one of the least visited national parks. And its free!
This park is beautiful. The cypress trees provide great shade but it can be humid and hot in the summer. But there are lots of bugs everywhere playing bumper cars with your face!
There are many trails to hike depending on your level of experience and appetite for adventure. We did the boardwalk trail which was easy. We wanted to hike the weston lake trail but saw gators and water moccasins close to the banks of the lake and decided not to for precaution. Trails are marked throughout.
However, I can see why this is one of the least visited parks. The visitor center was lacking pizzazz. It would be better if there were more interactions between the park ranger and visitors through educational programs or ranger talks. But rangers do not approach you and try to talk to you.
I am not sure I would come back again but am glad I had the chance to stop by while in the area.
j h — Google review
We visited the park after 5pm so didn’t get to see visitor center. About 1 of 2.5 miles of boardwalk was under water but we managed to walk it all the way (barefooted, kneedeep). On the trail we saw Otters, Snakes, leaches and an Owl (real up close, see video). Despite the flood it was a great experience
maarten van Lier — Google review
We went for the boardwalk trail. It was a really nice walk. We saw a lot of animals on the way, including alligator and turtles! For those who are going first time, don't forget to take a paper trail guide as there are many interesting points a long the trail. There are available at visitor center.
Justyna — Google review
One of more unknown and underrated National Parks, Congaree was a pleasant surprise. Start at the visitor center, where there is free parking, picnic tables and grills, restrooms and the gift shop. The visitor center is a little dated and could use a refresh, especially the restrooms.
The boardwalk trail was lovely and has a lot to look at. It does get crowded on the weekends because it’s great for families. If you want more of a secluded longer hike, we did the Weston Lake Loop, which took a couple of hours but it was worth it.
Chris Listenfelt — Google review
The biodiversity is this floodplain is amazing. From trees(bald cypress) having swollen trunk base to knees(roots that rise above ground) to support trees during floods to switch canes because elevation rise by only a few inches, and tallest deciduous trees (130-150 feet) in the world, and dwarf palmetto, to how the area was used by slaves to hide away and bootleggers to make alcohol during the ban. Do hike the Weston lake and oak ridge trails to get a chance to see some wildlife.
Shalin Rathi — Google review
Such a great park!
Plenty of trails, ranging from easy to difficult, Short to long.
Very clean, nice, restrooms on site at visitors center.
Boardwalk trail is fantastic, shaded, smooth. Little under 3 miles but not bad at all. Wheelchair accessible.
Absolutely wonderful park, kept up with.
Free entry.
Campsites available
Kind staff & helpful people.
C Price — Google review
Fun! We waded through the Swamp to make it all the way around the boardwalk. Not many people. It was nice that pets were allowed.
We were grateful for the time of year we visited because I'm sure mosquitoes are terrible when it's hot!
Amanda Gresiak — Google review
A beautiful and unique national park experience - specifically if you take a canoe or kayak to explore it.. highly recommended to book a guided canoe tour, to include no worries about getting lost in the swamp!
Ryan Smith — Google review
Great! Went 3/21 about a week after rain. Boardwalks were fine. You could see how high the water was! A great little place for also bringing kids and dogs! If I were to go again I would want to kayak/canoe!
A — Google review
Congaree National Park was free to enter, and parking was plentiful. I went on a weekday perhaps, that's why it wasn't busy. The main attraction in the park is the board walk. It's about 2 miles, and it's a loop that ends where you began. I was pretty excited to see a swamp, having never seen one before. However, after the first few hundred feet, it quickly becomes redundant. The visitor center gives you a small map that tells you about the different numbered signs along the walk.
I believe every national park is worth visiting. This one was probably the most uneventful national park I have been to, though. Or maybe swamps aren't my thing.
Dan Stewart — Google review
Such a lovely national park. Part of the boardwalk trail was flooded out, but there was still plenty to see and experience. We definitely want to return!
Allison Rensberger — Google review
We came here during flood season but it was still fun. There's a few trails you can take while it's flooded, and it's kind of nice to see that side of the park. If you want to avoid flood season, I Believe you need to go in the summer and fall. The park rangers are so nice and helpful, and there were no mosquitos.
Dani Drugan — Google review
A smaller National Park but a unique ecosystem. This park is basically a large swamp. The boardwalk trail is 2.4 miles and is very easy to walk. You can walk through an old growth hardwood forest that includes native bald cypress, beech, tupelo, and loblolly pine. Water was high this visit due to recent storms but not quite at flood level. The great thing about visiting in March, no mosquitoes. I hear they can be quite thick in the summer. If you are a National Park enthusiast like I am, this is a great place to experience something different. Unlike other parks, there were no crowds, and we enjoyed the solitude during the hike. There is off boardwalk hiking but did not attempt because of the high waters.
Steve Karl — Google review
This park isn't going to "wow" you with views and geological structures. Enchanted forest feel. Old growth trees are amazing. Very quiet and peaceful place. Boardwalk is a great hike. Entrance to the park is free.
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, completed in 2005, is a bridge that spans the Cooper River between downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. The bridge has a bike/walking lane and is illuminated at night. It replaced the Pearman Bridge and offers expansive panoramic views of the Charleston peninsula, Charleston harbor, and Mount Pleasant marina.
Must-do for visitors and locals alike! This iconic bridge is Charleston. Either driving across (at night is magical), or walking/running/biking, or on a boat on the water below; you’ll never get tired of taking in the Holy City from this vantage point. If you want to cross without a car, free car park is beneath and a very short walk to get on the starting point. It’s very safe despite the cars whizzing by. It is very windy most of the time as a heads up. So a sun hat, or loose items are not recommended. You will not be disappointed making this stop on your list!
Miss Positivity — Google review
I definitely recommend walking, biking, running, anything over this bridge. This bridge. The breeze was amazing and the views were incredible. My 9-year-old and I walked across to the USS Yorktown exhibit, and then walked back. It's 2 and 1/2 mi one way and a cool way to get some exercise in.
Christopher Nelson — Google review
Very beautiful and scenic. Amazing views! This area has many treasures to explore. Be careful, it's a highly trafficked highway. Taking in the scenes can cause a10 car pile up.
Dezi Dez — Google review
Such a cool bridge to run or bike over! My kids and I ran ( ok they walked ) over it a few times. Lots of other people doing the same and super safe even with lots of traffic speeding past.
Great way to get 5miles run in from one side to the other and back
Lee Barker — Google review
One of my best experiences during my visit to Charleston. The bridge itself is magnificent and an engineering marvel. If I lived here, I'd want to walk across it daily. Here are a few observations if you're planning to visit:
Parking: I did a search for Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park on Google. There are a lot of parking spots located right under the bridge giving you easy access to the path. This is on the Mount pleasant side.
Timing: The bridge is 2.5 miles long in one direction. There is an incline as you go up. Plan your timing accordingly based on your level of fitness and if you want to take a lot of photos.
Weather: Three miles into the five mile trek, a massive storm blew in and I was soaked. There is nowhere to shelter (not a complaint...... This isn't something you'd expect on a bridge crossing). Check the weather before.
The wind picks up very strongly at times so don't wear loose clothing etc.
N Maharaj — Google review
Love driving over this bridge it always amazes me of the view of whole City of Charleston. Can’t wait for this years 2022 Bridge Run! See ya out there runners! Also anywhere you drive in Charleston you can see the big diamonds.
Bobby Kalman — Google review
Fantastic bridge with even better views. Walking, running, jogging, or biking trail that's separated from bridge vehicle traffic. Fun place to run and catch great views.
Carter Carson — Google review
What a great walk, run or bike! 2 1/2 miles one way, park and get your exercise in. Highly recommended.
Gregory McDermott — Google review
Fantastic suspension bridge. Unique triangles dominate the horizon from every direction. See lots of people getting their walk or run in on the Mt Pleasant side of the bridge. Highly visible from the deck of the docked carrier vessel CV-10.
TK Cloonan — Google review
This is an espectacular and cool bridge to run, walk or bike. The views and the scenery are amazing, I walked during sunset and it’s just a beautiful place to do your morning or evening routine. There are water fountains and the begging, mid point and the end of the route just in case you forgot your water bottle. If you’re in the Charleston area this is a must to do during your visit and it’s free !
Ismael D — Google review
A short walk from either side of the bridge and your view is picturesque. Walk, run, bike, scooter, or skate the length of the bridge if you want a bit of exercise. We took a casual walk 1/2 way and back. Then spent the rest off the evening walking in the park and in the pier. You can definitely make an afternoon or evening out of a visit to the bridge.
There is a visitor center, cafe, gift shop, lots of riverfront seating all over, open grass areas and a gated playground for the kiddos.
Tina H — Google review
Hadn't been on this bridge in many years. Caught a few shots from a nearby parking lot before driving across the bridge yesterday, Tuesday 01-23-24.
N A — Google review
I recommend parking on the Mount Pleasant side of the bridge. Parking is free just beyond the visitors center and there is easy access to the trail to the bridge
Lee Herbst — Google review
The Bridge stands as an architectural masterpiece, seamlessly connecting communities with its sleek design and efficient traffic flow. Beyond its utilitarian purpose, it serves as a symbol of unity and resilience, captivating all who traverse its span. With its towering steel columns and intricate lattice work, this magnificent structure leaves an indelible mark on the landscape and in the hearts of all who behold it.
prince — Google review
This is such an awesome experience. I stopped here and walk the bridge every time I come to Charleston South Carolina.
Josh Vaughan — Google review
Work of engineering! Great for scenic walk or run. You can also enjoy waters edge below. The bridge walk is amazing with 50 mile views
Jeff Whitesides — Google review
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Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge, Charleston, SC 29403, USA
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic plantation dating back to the early 1700s, with gardens which are popular with visitors for their lovely natural surroundings and fascinating history. Besides the garden itself, there are attractions such as an animal zoo and nature center. There's also a train that takes visitors around the grounds, as well as boat tours.
This was our first plantation tour. We had a great time. We did not tour inside the big house, but went on the tram tour and the From Slave to Freedom cabin tour. I recommend both very highly. After the tours we went though some of the gardens and around the ponds. Great scenery and views. We were surprised to come upon two large alligators near a walking path alongside one of the ponds. We were told there were many alligators on the property, but did not expect this encounter and left expediently. They made no aggressive moves, but we did not hang around. The rest of our walk was very nice and relaxing.
Daniel Brown — Google review
My family had a lovely visit to Magnolia Plantation. We came early on a Wednesday, and were able to quickly purchase tickets and get started with exploring the grounds.
The plantation’s massive Live Oak trees are picturesque, and the house itself is well maintained. While waiting for our tour, we visited the conservatory which was lovely. We ended our tour in the gift shop which had a wide assortment of lovely items.
We chose to pay for the Nature Tram since we had folks in our group who couldn’t walk far. It was a great choice since we were able to see the grounds and gain some historical perspective without walking a lot. On the tram we were able to see the slave houses, several rice fields, and many wild animals including alligators, birds, and turtles!
Although we didn’t go into the house or take the From Slavery to Freedom tour, I imagine these are as well done as the Nature Tram and well worth their money!
Dana B (WI - MN - TN) — Google review
What a beautiful place! So glad we went to visit. The grounds were gorgeous! There was a wedding there yesterday, so the various vendors were there tearing down their set ups. Other than that, all areas were open. We spotted many gators, so be mindful when walking near ponds and waterways. Lots of turtles too. The magnolias were so fragrant while we were walking around. We just did the house tour, but they had other tours available too. Those can be booked ahead of time right online. Lovely visit.
Lynne L — Google review
Magnolia was one of the best experiences we had while visiting Charleston. The tour guides were all very knowledgeable about the plantation. We did the house tour, train tour, and the Slavery to Freedom tour. The tour guide for Slavery to Freedom was Vanessa and she was absolutely amazing. I would recommend more then 4 hours for the entirety of the plantation. We only were able to do our tours and visit the gift shop in the four hours we were there. We wish we would have had more time to explore the gardens because this place is absolutely amazing. They also have an app that was extremely helpful for navigating the grounds and location the tours and restrooms.
Kierra Thiry — Google review
The plantation is absolutely gorgeous. The scenery and flowers were breathtaking and the farm animals made the experience so much fun for the kids. When walking the different gardens, the signs leading there could have been more clear. Most importantly, be prepared to be completely devoured by herds of mosquitos, so prepare accordingly. Otherwise, the experience was top notch! Highly recommended.
Hussein Fayad — Google review
Such a nice way to spend the day. The house is smaller than you’d guess, but the tour was one of my favorites. Full of history and interesting facts. The Slavery to Freedom tour literally made my eyes tear up with emotion, the guide couldn’t have been more perfect, it is clear that she loves her job and takes the history seriously. The grounds are beautiful. And my favorite part - the wild gators were all out and sunbathing, not at all phased by the visitors.
Kirsten C — Google review
This is a truly special place. We visited on a Thursday in late March. We took the train around the gardens and walked around some of the trails. There are many benches to sit on if you get tired easily. Bikes are allowed on some of the trails. There are so many great photo ops, so definitely bring a camera. There's plenty of parking and a bathhouse by the ticket booth. There's also a cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks. You download the Magnolia app on your phone and it has a map and info on events. There's a "From Slavery to Freedom" talk and a guided tour of the house. There's a very nice gift shop in the ground floor of the house. I bought an art print, Gullah seagrass basket and a cool candy on a stick for my son.
Amber Connell — Google review
Extensive gardens and large tracks of natural habitat. The Ashley river runs along the edge of the property providing beautiful views from the gardens. There are interesting trees to be found including redwood. There is a biblical garden as well as a conservatory. There are places with picnic tables and benches to rest at. There is a petting zoo. And children's garden. We did see little blue herons, great egrets, alligators and turtles. There is an excellent presentation "from slave to freedom" that takes about 30 minutes. Takes place at the remaining original slave quarters on the plantation. Gives a good snapshot of what life was through the decades from 1850s to 1990, they were still in use by the grounds people. All these can make for an entertaining and informative day.
JMcCoy McCoy — Google review
Had a nice afternoon here with the family. It wasn't peak bloom for anything in late September but there were still plenty of flowers and the overall scenery with the Spanish moss draped trees was stunning.
We did the rice field boat tour, which was very informative. The rice fields were given back to nature and are now just wetlands with a few remnants of the old farm. We saw tons of beautiful birds and alligators. The pontoon boat had a roof, so we were out of the sun.
Definitely should be on your Charleston list. If you are a local, call ahead to learn about what's in bloom and what time of year is best to visit.
M B — Google review
Beautiful grounds and rich in history. Great stop on way to Charleston for a bit of a walk and some lovely pictures! Bring bug spray and pack a lunch. Bit pricey but if you have more time it is well worth the money.
Waterfall Yoga Therapy — Google review
It's definitely a beautiful place filled with lovely flowers, plants and trees. The slavery to freedom tour and petting zoo are included in admission. Personally, I think for the price, everything should be included. There shouldn't be "add ons."
The guide for the freedom tour was exceptional and he deserves a raise. He told the raw history which needs to be said.
Alexa Wallbrown — Google review
A beautiful old world plantation garden. The many acres of the gardens offer many photo opportunities, including the long white bridge and the bamboo garden. There is also a little zoo area with several cool animals to visit with.
Evan Bair — Google review
Unfortunately for me it was a big disappointment. I love flowering plants but the azaleas and camellias had 95% finished blooming. So little to no color except for the plantings at the entrance. Pretty much if you miss the spring blooms you are just strolling through the woods.
There were multiple bus loads of people being dropped off. I felt sorry for those standing in long lines to get food at the small cafe.
There were miles of trails, most of which were not well marked, so we wondered aimlessly until we found our way back.
There were several small ponds and bridges with a couple of alligators floating around.
The entry fee seemed very high at $35. We did not take the house tour or tram tour. Overall disappointing.
Cathie Bales — Google review
I had an amazing time here, it was super beautiful and a really enjoyable experience overall. The "train" tour is nice because you're able to see a lot of the area with a lot of wildlife. The boat ride is also fun and you see a lot of gators. There are also many birds throughout the plantation along with flowers along various paths.
Jawand S. — Google review
Our family had a great time here! It was so nice to get up close to so many animals. We enjoyed our train tour and learned a lot! I only wish it was easier to take pictures during the tour. The cafe had great options for food. The gardens were lovely! We didn’t have time to do the silvery to freedom tour, but we will definitely be back to do it.
Jess W — Google review
Beautiful Plantation with so much to see and do! We loved going over to the “look out platform” and seeing over the whole area! We also saw SO MANY alligators in the ponds! SO cool!
We also LOVED the zoo! It had the coolest animals and was so fun to walk around and see them all up close!
We visited the last week of May and noticed that none of the flowers in the gardens were blooming (could’ve just been an off and cold year for the flowers).
RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Bring Bug spray! We were a little unprepared and got EATEN ALIVE
- Look up the tour times! The grounds are beautiful, but each segment (ex: house, garden, train tour etc) costs money and most of the segments have specific your hours! Look up your times to get the most out of your experience
Hannah Upham — Google review
This tour provided real and accurate information about slavery. No sugar coating, Gone With The Wind, it wasn't that bad narrative. Beautiful and breathtaking gardens, swamp and scenery. We did the big house, train and "From Slavery to Freedom" tours. We spent 3.5 hours and could have walked the garden more but, the 🦟 🦟 🦟 were hungry so we left 😂 A great tour and educational experience!
Margra Ferrier — Google review
Beautiful gardens and worth the visit on fresh day, with a chance to see alligators during train ride.
From slavery to freedom tour was
disappointing by our opinion. It was mostly self tour with 20 minutes story while you have to sit in the pavilion.
Guide was rude with kids (not mine but it felt wrong), taking into account that even our kids were bored and didn’t want to sit calmly who are big fun’s of any kid of excursion.
Olga Stryia — Google review
On the west side of the Ashley river are three plantations all within close proximity to one another and around a 20 minutes drive from historic Charleston, one of them being Magnolia. While originally a working rice plantation, Magnolia has now evolved into more of a naturalistic park with a large number of pathways and various types of foliage on display. Like other plantations there is a manor home which tours are offered for (at an additional cost) as well as a complimentary tram ride around the property that is quite pleasant and offers a nice respite from all the walking you would do. A worth stop if visiting the area. Enjoy!
Craig Bromberg — Google review
Terrific gardens!
Lots to see. Excellent variety of azaleas and camellias.
Lots of trails. Enjoy the birds and alligators and snakes.
Swamp boardwalk a huge plus.
So many photo ops.
Can't wait to return!
Mark Shuford — Google review
As a nature lover this was my favorite thing I did while visiting Charleston. Absolutely beautiful grounds with lots of wildlife and flowers to see. I also enjoyed the Slavery to Freedom Tour as it was informative and gave me a better understanding of the property and the hardships slaves faced. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I would recommend going in the morning as it started to get more crowded during the day. Bathrooms are easily accessible and very clean. They have a nice cafe as well.
Morgan — Google review
I have never seen anything like this. It’s so beautiful, it looks unreal. The gardens and trails are absolutely breathtaking. We toured the house and the guide was so pleasant.
I still can’t get over how beautiful everything is!
Debbie Collins — Google review
Very enjoyable experience! We took the train through the swamp area and later returned on foot to hike the trail through the swamp. We saw many birds, alligators, and turtles. Very unique atmosphere with an almost mystical quality
Ann Telma — Google review
Visited on a Tuesday afternoon, and there were quite a lot of guests during that time.
It was $38/person to access the gardens, Wildlife Center, Slavery to Freedom Tour, Wildlife Tour, and swamps.
We enjoyed walking through the swamps - alligators, turtles, birds.
Wildlife Tour - very squeaky tram to where we could barely hear the tour guide and definitely couldn't enjoy the sounds of nature.
Slavery to Freedom Tour - very quick history from the guide + Q&A. Didn't get very deep into it and have had better experiences in other cities.
Wildlife Center - small sanctuary with several species (alligator, peacock, goat, deer, owls, racoons, reptiles, fox, turtles, and more)
Gardens - decent views and nice walking paths.
Overall, we enjoyed our day but felt it was overpriced for the experience and offerings.
The Joe Riley Waterfront Park on the east side of Charleston provides sweeping views of the harbor and is a popular spot for people to relax, picnic, and take in the sights. There are drinking fountains scattered throughout the park and wireless Internet access.
This park is set along the ocean and calls you to remember the history of the area as you walk along its paths.
Flowers & Majestic Trees line the walking routes that eventually guide you to the the famous Pineapple fountain ⛲️ and the pier.
Lots of restaurants and shopping close by.
A relaxing way to spend a few hours or all day.
Laura Lockhart — Google review
Such an amazing place to walk around and have a nice evening stroll. Lots of benches to sit down and take a moment to relax. Beautiful fountains (including the famous Pineapple fountain) down here! The boardwalk is right next to the water and leads all the way to the water taxi pickup. The grove of trees is like walking through a green tunnel, especially gorgeous close to sunset with the suns rays penetrating the leaves.
Ajimon Thomas — Google review
Here is a Google traveler review for Joe Riley Waterfront Park:
Pros:
Beautiful waterfront location with stunning views of the Cooper River
Large, open spaces with plenty of room to walk, run, or bike
Several playgrounds and splash pads for kids
Picnic areas with grills and tables
Public restrooms
Free parking
Cons:
Can get crowded during peak times
No shade in some areas
Not much shade for picnicking
No food or drink vendors on-site
Overall:
Joe Riley Waterfront Park is a great place to relax, enjoy the outdoors, and get some exercise. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so be prepared for crowds. If you're looking for a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this might not be the park for you. But if you're looking for a beautiful, well-maintained park with plenty of activities to keep you busy, then Joe Riley Waterfront Park is definitely worth a visit.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Date of visit: June 21, 2023
Time of visit: 10:00 AM
Weather: Sunny, 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Overall impression: I really enjoyed my visit to Joe Riley Waterfront Park. The views of the Cooper River are amazing, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. I would definitely recommend this park to anyone visiting Charleston.
Eduardo Jasso — Google review
We visited on a weekday afternoon in the spring. It was fairly busy with spring break tourists. It was difficult finding parking. We had to circle a lot before we found a lot with open spaces. There are two fountains and a boardwalk. People are allowed to play in the fountains! No one was in them due to the cooler weather. The pier has a covered picnic area and bench swings. My kid loved the swings! There's a Carnival Cruise Line dock next door and there was a ship there! The pineapple fountain was gorgeous. It was much more detailed than I expected. There's an area with benches close by shaded by many live oaks. Just beautiful.
Amber Connell — Google review
A staple must do on your Charleston visit!
Enjoy the park with trails under oaks or along the marsh, benches, swings on the dock leading to the marsh, a dock by the Tug Boats, and of course infamous Pineapple Fountain.
One of the best views of the Charleston area bay and especially for sunrise!
You can find me here occasionally doing my morning rucks or on the docks enjoying the sea!
We hope you enjoy our beautiful city of Charleston!
- The Pirate Hunter
Justin Myers — Google review
Super cool cool park. We felt like we were in a Jane Austin book taking a turn around the gardens. It was incredible beautiful and well cared for. We wish we had more time to just come and chill. This is a must got for a quiet place to rest. It’s very peaceful. Now should be mentioned it’s not a park for kids to run or dogs to be walked etc. even a sign that says no running. It’s a tranquil park. Which is what brings some of it awesomeness.
Steven deSteuben — Google review
Beautiful water front park with lots of trees, benches and great views. Check out the pineapple and other fountain. Kids should wear their bathing suits, and adults can dip their toes too! A few restaurants and an ice cream shop are nearby.
Steve Tishko — Google review
Nice walking area along the water. There are 2 fountains that the kids are allowed to play in and cool off, dont forget to bring a towel. I fountain is called the pineapple fountain which looks like a pineapple. The pier is nice, has a shaded area with a couple of swings. Grandchild was able to ride her bike along the path.
Joy Berthiaume — Google review
Beautiful waterfront location with stunning views of the river. The park is full of large, open spaces with plenty of room to walk. Although some of the sidewalks were under water today due to rain. There are several playgrounds and splash areas for kids. There are picnic areas with grills and tables,
Free parking if you can find a spot.
Kelly Biastre (KellyBee) — Google review
Gorgeous park with lot of area to walk, sit and relax, take photos, etc. Loved going here with family and had an amazing time.
Jacks — Google review
We visited in late March when it is chilly in the mornings but warms to 70’s in the afternoon, perfect time to visit these outdoor locations in Charleston. Flowers were starting bloom and spread through the park. There are two walkways one that is the pier and one the has elaborate homes, lined with huge oak trees. Several cute places to sit and watch the pier or to have a nice picnic. The fountain was beautiful.
Savanna Huffman — Google review
AWESOOOOME! SUCH a gorgeous place to walk around and have a nice evening stroll. Beautiful fountains down here! And the boardwalk right next to the water…and the grove of trees is like walking through a tunnel. So beautiful, such a nice little pretty spot. If I lived in Charleston, I’d be down here every week! A MUST VISIT if you ever find yourself in historic Charleston! 👍👍
Dan Thompson — Google review
This park is a great place to take a break from the touring and activity of the city proper. There was a lovely breeze and shade so it was refreshing. It is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy watching the sailboats in the harbor or the kids playing in the fountains.
Cris Letourneau — Google review
Wow. What a beautiful park. The fountains are the main attractions in the park other than the view of Fort Sumter. Great place for kids to dip themselves in the fountains on a hot summer day. Had sail boats floating by. Plenty of shady places to cool off while walking the surrounding area. The swings on the dock are the best. So much to do here. You won't regret giving this beautiful part of Charleston SC a gander. Will definitely be back for more.
Frankie Rodriguez — Google review
Joe Riley Waterfront Park is an easy walk from King Street and City Market. This beautiful and pristine park overlooks the Charleston Harbor. Stop at the Pineapple Fountain, slip off your shoes, and wade in the water. Stroll along the tree-lined pathway and enjoy the beauty of Charleston.
Chris Trethewey — Google review
We had a beautiful day. October is a perfect time to visit. Nice place to take a break and rest. You can reflect, watch sail boats, and listen to street artists.
Laura Mantooth — Google review
If you are looking to take an early morning or late evening stroll, this is the perfect spot. There are plenty of benches if you want to grab a book to read, have a picnic, or just take in the scenery and enjoy nature.
Kevin Guy — Google review
Beautiful waterfront park in downtown Charleston. We got to see a cruise ship docked nearby. Perfect place to admire the fountains, sit on swings or benches and relax or visit with friends, have a picnic. Very nice park with water views. We enjoyed it.
Brandi W — Google review
Wonderful waterfront park! We went end of March 2024 and there was a ton of construction which made getting there with a wheelchair a tough experience but once we did it was great! The paths were not very wheelchair friendly because roots had grown under the bricks (not unexpected) so I would suggest having someone assist a wheelchair user. We did see a dolphin on the peer! Swings were busy so we didn’t get to try those. Will return again in warmer months!
Sandy Reamer — Google review
This park is awesome, it's got the pineapple fountain you can put your feet in and it's also got the splash pad, there is the pier that is a must go to, it's where you can find the famous swings.
Trey .M. — Google review
Beautiful park for family and friends. It’s an easy walk from city market, plenty of spots for taking pictures and relaxing at the park . It has nice pier, fountains, eco rock, benches along the big trees etc. We enjoyed walking around and took some nice pictures here.
Chanchal — Google review
Beautiful park with two water fountains overlooking river, with lots of benches for your evening enjoyment.
Chanbo Keo — Google review
Wow what a beautiful place to spend a few hours!! Beautiful sights and walkways! Lots of benches and places to sit & soak up some South Carolina sunshine also🌞
Callie Paige — Google review
This place is really nice. Easy to spot dolphins. I saw a dolphin couple. We took a really nice walk. It's also really nice to rent a bike and ride. Pineapple fountain is also really beautiful.
Krishna singh — Google review
4.7
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4.5
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Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
The Charleston City Market, a market complex located in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, has a rich history dating back over 200 years. Spanning four blocks, this historic market offers a diverse array of food vendors and artisans selling various crafts such as sweetgrass baskets. The Market Hall, an architecturally significant building that faces Meeting Street, serves as the centerpiece of the market. Stretching from Market Hall to East Bay Street are a series of one-story market sheds that complete the complex.
I went to this beautiful gallery of art. I was told that Jonathan Green was one of the best artist in town. Great Customer Service. Willie was very nice, neat and charming. Great Prices too!!🙂
tawana gadsden — Google review
I loved visiting this market. It was fairly big for the area that it’s in. I was expecting a much smaller market and was pleasantly surprised. There was so much to see and buy. I bought some prints, little gifts, jewelry, candies and had to buy some of the beautiful grass woven art pieces. There is lots more to do outside of the market that is very close and I loved that aspect also. It was a tight squeeze but we went on a weekend so maybe it’s less crowded during the weekdays. You are going to love it, but pack your comfy shoes for sure.
JJ Herman — Google review
The City Market is a must-stop if you are visiting Charleston. This market is packed with all different types of vendors and artisans. The handmade straw baskets are works of art, and the paintings are breathtaking. Different vendors vary throughout the week, so stop in several times.
Chris Trethewey — Google review
Had a great time browsing all the very unique and interesting gifts offered by so many different vendors. Everyone was polite & friendly, the basket weavers even made a rose for our little one which made her day.
david willis — Google review
Starting from the intersection of Meeting Street and Market Street then extending all the way to East Bay Street, the Charleston City Market is a renown location to buy a wide assortment of locally produced goods or at least from certified local vendors. During the day it serves predominantly as tourist market (but still nice) and there are, on certain evenings a Night Market where only locally produced goods are available. In both cases it is worth a visit if you are visiting as you are sure to find a nice memento of your visit here...and you'd be supporting a small local business. Enjoy!
Craig Bromberg — Google review
This was my 2nd visit to Charleston City Marketplace. It's an open-air market with no walls and vendors lining either side of the aisles with all sorts of unique sweet grass baskets, jewelry, clothing, food, books and so much more. I purchased a very unique handmade cane with a silver metal handle for a friend at a very reasonable price. Also, I purchased several pieces of jewelry for gift giving and some sweet grass items. The vendors are generally very friendly and some are the artisans who created the items on display. Three blocks long with lots of parking nearby, both street and lot parking. Each time I've gone, I wish I had more room in my suitcase for additional items. Several restaurants surrounding the market, including Henry's with great food and ambiance, are either at the bar or table seating. There's also an area to get carriage rides within a block. Easy walking area and open 7 days a week.
Micki K Kirkland — Google review
Definitely a must see in Charleston. Although busier, it's probably better to go on a weekend when I would imagine more vendors would be out. But I am not exactly sure how that works. If you are really shopping, it probably takes about 2 hours to get through the entire market. There are plenty of public parking areas. The parking garage we parked at was $4 for 2 hours.
Jordan Yoshimine — Google review
A must see when you visit Charleston! Packed with something for everyone. I bought a book, a few pieces of art, and post cards. Very welcoming. I felt comfortable with my mask on. I would visit here again. From grits, to baskets, to art there is so much to see! Such a beautiful experience. Truly a place worth stopping and experiencing. You can find parking, there are lots and street parking. Also there is a lot of food in the area. Enjoy!
MJ Worldwide — Google review
This was my second time visiting the market while in the state. It was such a lovely time. So much beautiful art and good snacks! Of course, everything is surrounded by the beautiful city with so many different shops. The only downfall is the horse carriage rides, leaves horse poop in the ground in some areas with a fresh scent.
I do recommend going during the week if you can, so it's a little busy.
Lauren LaPinta — Google review
We were looking for something to do before we had to head to the airport. This is an interesting market that has a huge variety of things to look at and shop. There are permanent stores and what appears to be less permanent stalls for local vendors. Most of it is in outdoor covered pavilions with one section indoors and air conditioned. It began to rain hard, which quickly flooded the streets. There were 7 to as much as 12 inches of water between the buildings. I had to take my shoes off and roll my pants up to escape. Would have like to see the whole thing. It was a very memorable experience.
Brent Husband — Google review
Love the Charleston City Market.
There are a lot of interesting shops. Some are handmade items, too.
Wide variety of artworks,spices, etc.
The high ceiling with fans and long 2 buildings are impressive. There are also bathrooms.
Walking down the shops is sure a nice experience. ...
Phia Velasquez — Google review
The Market is great and houses lots of great vendors both day and night with food, artifacts, art, jewelry, bags, clothing, and so much more. Lots of the items are handmade, especially at the night market. The market extends about 3 or more blocks and lots of great eating places and other stores around the market. You definitely want to visit the market! We did twice!! 😃
S Martin — Google review
There seems to be something for everyone. Whether you are looking for handmade jewelry, accessories, candles, hats, fragrance, jellies, cookies, or Charlston themed souvenirs, I am sure you will enjoy your visit. Be sure to visit the numerous nearby shops and horse and carriage tours.
Mario Mccoy — Google review
Marvelous public market in the middle of downtown Charleston. The place has different kind of vendors, from arts and crafts to local shoes designers. Even if you don’t buy anything, I encourage people to talk a walk inside to enjoy its architecture.
Arthur Alexander — Google review
One of my top fave experiences while we were visiting Charleston. Really cool market with all sorts of local stuff to buy and eat. Also just fun to look around. They only have certain hours so make sure to check the site. We caught the tail end of the market so a lot of people were already packing up or gone already for the day. Still a unique experience to find touristy or less touristy m/more unique Charleston items. I bought some delicious pecans roasted in cinnamon sugar. I will say roads are really tight and smaller in this part of town so brace yourself and search for nearby parking.
Chelsea C — Google review
This is definitely a must stop, whether during the day or at night. My friend and I loved walking through the market and perusing all the local vendors and shops. We purchased a couple of gifts for ourselves and for others. I loved some of the unique jewelry and basket shops, and other items like the freeze dried skittles I couldn't quite understand. There's a plethora of things to buy!
Heidi Morales-Hake — Google review
The barn was very clean and smelt nice, and had bathrooms, which we were not expecting. It was easy and fast to get into the wagon as they tell everyone where to sit. We had Jordan, who was a very good coach horse and clearly knew the route. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. We saw a lot of the beautiful back alleys and were told a lot of history.
Julie Jett — Google review
A great place for unique gifts and souvenirs from the Low Country. Authentic, hand made items by local craftsmen, garments, soaps, etc. Sweet grass baskets too. Parking is a bear or the other "B" word. Garages and lots can be $20/day. Place floods during a heavy rainstorm. Closes at 5 with vendors taking all their goods with them. A must see.
Steve Tishko — Google review
Ok so it's getting an average review based on access and walking. Repeat of products and parking. Worth the shopping trip but if you have mobility issues just know it's going to be a challenge. The horse carriage is a mixed thoughts, really hard to get in for some, But such a nice way to hear stories and see the sights. Just wish they had a horses only lane .
Amy Ramses — Google review
My husband and I shopped at Charelston City Market and we bought a beautiful ornament of a Charleston map, put on an oyster shell. It is so unique and beautiful. This wonderful lady sold it to us, she was so nice. I also bought a wallet to match my purse that I bought in Savannah, Georgia. There was so many things to choose from and I love what we bought. My husband also, bought me a beautiful bohemian cover-up with a brooch, it is also reversible.
Kelly Webb — Google review
Open air market with vendor booths amid centuries old buildings. Great walking / touring area. Close to waterfront and historical parks and buildings. I'm not much for markets, but the walk was very nice.
AccuSpect Inspections — Google review
Just steps from the port so best not to go when ships are visiting. Specialty foods and local crafts and kitschy souvenirs. Pick up a pack of benne wafers for a nice gift for friends.
Irene S. Levine — Google review
The market has so many booths with unique items - it took over three hours to see it all. I lucked out and went on the day of the Christmas tree lighting so there was a night market too. I went to the market in the morning and then again for the night market. A lot of different vendors set up for the night market. It wasn’t difficult to find a parking spot for either time. It was a lovely day and I bought many unique items from food items to baskets to jewelry.
Side note: Be careful of the people outside the market trying to “gift” you with a handmade sea grass rose. They are relentless with demands for money. Just be prepared to pay if you accept the “gift”.
Suzanne Symon — Google review
Very cool, large market with lots of local vendors selling many different products. You could purchase belts, paintings, hats, handmade leaf baskets, and much more. We visited at least 2-3 times in our short stay. It was a bit pricey, but it's also a big tourist attraction so it makes sense. It wasn't too busy though, we were able to take our time and got a few souvenirs to bring back.
Caleb Sanchez — Google review
This place is usually on the list of places to go and see on Trip Advisor and Google. I usually go to these to look for unique souvenirs and shot glasses. Yes, it’s a tourist trap and worth walking around to window shop. I didn’t buy anything because I didn’t see anything that interested me and the prices weren’t cheap. People were friendly. You’ll see some weaving baskets, jewelry, clothing, etc.
Nicholas P — Google review
Cool market, lots of vendors and stuff to see and possibly buy. Watch out for the street folks peddling the grass roses though. This kid tried to get my elderly mom to give him money for a "basketball trip to Alpharetta". I told him no thanks and he cussed me out and walked off.
Middleton Place, a sprawling rice plantation on the Ashley River dating back to the 1730s, is located about fifteen miles northwest of Charleston. Once home to the Middleton family, who played significant roles in South Carolina's colonial and antebellum history, this landmark suffered damage during both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Despite being ransacked by British troops and burned by Union soldiers, Middleton Place stands today as a National Historic Landmark District.
We have visited four plantations in the Charleston area. This is our favorite setting and relaxing atmosphere. The grounds are exceptionally maintained. We spent two hours walking the grounds. It is the various buildings that tell the story. One stop shows a very large number of Middleton slaves. Depicted by each location and where they determined their value to the plantations.
The house tour is self guided after a short synopsis of the Middleton family and furnishings.
We had lunch outdoors in a very relaxed setting. Salad with baked chicken breast, green fried tomatoes with sauce and corn fritters with honey butter.
Runnsun — Google review
Lovely grounds. You pull into the gravel parking lot and there is a Cafe/market to the left. Please know that is not the only place to grab a bite. You can access this, as well as the gift shop, prior to your paid entrance. We opted for a tour of the house for an additional $15pp. Not sure if I would do that again. We were maybe in there 15 minutes....maybe. it's self guided but there are volunteers to tell stories or answer questions. If you are expecting a grand southern plantation mansion, this is not it. Its a small 2 story home. The first thing you see upon entering the plantation is the large reflecting pond. Very beautiful. The next thing you'll notice is the livestock running amuck. Namely sheep. So be careful where you walk. 😉 they do have a lovely dining room. It was a very nice plantation. Lots of grounds to explore. Everyone was very nice. Just not that grand southern home. Not sure the livestock gets the best care. Which is why I gave it 4 stars.
Sherri Fischer — Google review
We visited Middleton in late September 2022. Granted, hurricane Ian provided atypical weather, but in general, it’s probably not the best time to visit. Little to nothing was in bloom. The grounds were well kept and people were friendly and helpful. There were a few animals freely roaming - a handful of sheep and some swans. They had horse stables but nothing super interactive. There are some small buildings to showcase how the enslaved lived, but it’s not very detailed. The grounds had easy walking paths - mostly sand-based so if you are wearing sandals, know you’ll get a little
dusty. There’s a restaurant on site which is nice. The beyond the fields tour … wasn’t a tour. You gather around under a tree, sit on benches and listen to a historian explain the enslaved conditions. It was informative, but different than how it was presented. There is a restroom, gift shop and plant shop in the parking area. It’s not a must-see for me. We spent about 2.5 hours here.
Cortney Ayers — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous location. The oak trees are stunning, the gardens are lovely to stroll through, and I love a history lesson. We went to the restaurant last week and enjoyed the drive out, delicious food and cocktails and friendly and helpful staff. Shout out to Maggie who helped us make memorable dish selections. Looking forward to coming back later this fall for a wine stroll. I went last year and enjoyed it so much, I am coming back with girlfriends! I would recommend it as a date or as a nice evening with friends.
BKV — Google review
Middleton Place is really special. First the staff are very helpful. And they are easy to find. Everything is well organized & with the map, it's not hard to get around. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful. There are plenty of beaches to set and enjoy the views. It's nice the restaurant is on the grounds. Having a place to set, cool off and relax helps so much.
K A — Google review
Restaurant had a very good steak, but the locally made cinnamon ice cream, I honestly cannot stop thinking about it. The view outside this restaurant, although "wild" not tamed, alligators were ALL OVER THE PROPERTY, was Southern thick farmland and just spectacular. The property tour was very neat and the history was rich and interesting. The Inn was very different and unique, rooms had ceiling to floor windows showing the lush grounds. An interesting property worth the visit.
cyndi becker — Google review
Breathtaking! This place was the highlight of our honeymoon. The cured gardens and ponds were like a dream. The staff are all very helpful and know their stuff or will send you to someone who does. What a pleasant and enjoyable day. Give yourself a whole day to soak in the history and experience of this estate. Enjoy!
Kevin Keller — Google review
Beautiful grounds and house. Wonderful restaurant on property with absolutely amazing food. House tour was very informative as were the historical interpreters around the grounds. Very relaxing and serene surroundings.
US 1 — Google review
What a wonderful place to visit. It has great trails throughout the property, and it is so peaceful and beautiful. It is truly a step back in time. I loved the trails that were bordering the Ashley River.... phenomenal! A huge Osprey dove down, caught a fish, and flew right by us. So cool! We did not do the house tour, but I was perfectly content outside with the beautiful topography and interacting with all the animals, most excellent visit!
MA B-B — Google review
Great historical place to visit. Beautiful landscapes and the old buildings are amazing. Bring bottled water as it was hot a d humid and there is a lot of walking but, worth every minute of it.
Jeff King — Google review
Absolutely beautiful! Loved getting to walk around and explore the gardens- there were tons of free garden tours or other guides that you could listen to- to learn more information about. But overall it was such a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. It’s pretty far North Charleston- and tons of walking- we got there around 9:30am and didn’t get done until 12:45pm- so allocate for a good chunk of time here!
Kelley — Google review
Absolutely loved it! Amazing grounds and scenery. The house tour was really cool, lots of history in the building. The restaurant waa nice, I didn't eat there, but it smelled amazing. Had a couple drinks at bar, beat Old Fashioned I have had in years! Huge shout out to Colby H.....kudos buddy!
Gloria Worthington — Google review
We booked a tour van out to the estate which included transportation, tour of house and lunch. Self guided tour of grounds and gardens in between the timed tour and lunch.Beautiful place and well preserved house with interesting articles from the Middletons. Gardens are beautifully maintained. All of the staff were extremely helpful and kind. A must if visiting Charleston.
Bernadette Jamieson — Google review
This is a lovely place to spend the day. We went specifically to see the Middleton Oak. The ticket agent was helpful with directions to get to the oak on the shortest route. The grounds are lovely with lots of wooded, shady paths. We saw swans in the reflecting pond and alligators in the flooded rice fields, which my daughter was very excited about. The two gift shops are very nice and well stocked with a variety of items of different price points.
Rhonda Waterhouse — Google review
Visiting from Georgia and this was such a fun outing! Bought student tickets online, quick and easy. The parking is good. The whole estate is very large and worth the price. There are some small trails around the swamp, some by the water, some around the garden. It is all well maintained and beautiful. We were not able to attend any of the tours but there are plenty scheduled throughout the day. The livestock here are very nice and obviously well taken care of. The chickens ran up to us expecting food, which kind of startled my partner. I loved the whole experience here. Though I do recommend coming when the heat of summer isn’t in full affect, we were dripping sweat by the time we were done here in July.
Unknown Inc. — Google review
Middleton has beautiful gardens and grounds along the Ashley River. You can find period reenactment of many of the trades that used to exist on the plantation, along with animals that would have been present during the Middleton family's residency. It has also been the set for movies, such as "The Patriot."
The Foundation that runs Middleton does an excellent job maintaining the property and in recent years has been very open about the tragic reality that the Middleton family owned hundreds of enslaved people. It seems they are trying to do their part to preserve history and acknowledge the failings of the past.
Scott Penick — Google review
Went on a Wednesday night when they were having one of their annual wine walks. Four stations with a red and a white wine as well as a cheese board and finger sandwiches at each station. The grounds were beautiful, not a lot of colorful flowers, but lots of greenery. The ponds had alligators and turtles, made for a magical night. Highly recommend.
Jaime Kessler-Gengler — Google review
Huge property, nicely laid out walking tour of the gardens and working areas. The day we were here, they were doing guided golf cart tours of the rice field.
There is an extra cost to see the home on this site. I would suggest going earlier in the day rather than later due to heat during this late spring and summer.
Leith Britt — Google review
I have been to Middleton multiple times over the years. It has beautiful gardens that you can get lost in. Don't look at the pics here. Just get out and see it. I went to a Creative mornings event that was hosted here and didn't pay but there is usually a fee. There is a cute garden center where you can buy plants, but the big draw is the incredible southern landscape. Enjoy!
Descartes — Google review
Incredible tour with lots to do! My husband and I spent 6 hours walking around the beautiful property, ate an incredible lunch and toured the main house. So many beautiful things to look at and a lot of rich history. Make sure to say hello to Arthur, the resident stable cat!
Miranda Zook — Google review
Amazing plantation with knowledgeable guides and tons of history. We visited early October and the weather was spectacular. Did Beyond the Fields and Guided Garden Tour. Both were included in the admission price. Ate lunch in the restaurant which was wonderful. Our wait staff was engaging and attentive. (No tax on the bill!) Learned so much about slavery and history of the plantation. The trees alone were worth the visit. One was 1,000 years old! I highly recommend.
Robyn Brooks — Google review
Great way to spend the afternoon in Charleston area. This place was brimming with history but had enough to keep all ages occupied. I have 4 kids aged 12-17 and they really enjoyed the grounds. The house tour is an addition that added a lot of context. They have numerous guided tours on the grounds themselves including a garden tour and a stable tour. Beautiful place and worth the trip.
Andrew Jameson — Google review
Magnificent! You could spend all day here and still want to come back for more. The volunteers there are very knowledgeable and helpful, you can tell they love being there. A ton of history to absorb there. Animals are friendly and there is no shortage of picture opportunities. Restaurant on site is good but a little pricey.
Katie Ishee — Google review
Beautiful ❤️ and Natural Surroundings. Please check Flower Blossoms season and you will enjoy it.
Yes, live alligator 🐊 all around the place.
Nestled on Wadmalaw Island, just a scenic drive from Johns Island, the Charleston Tea Garden is a picturesque site with acres of tea plants and offers trolley and factory tours. Established in the late 1700s, it continues the tradition of American grown tea that was invested in by the Lipton Company in the early 1900s. Visitors can explore this historic plantation and sample its renowned American Classic Tea.
This was a wonderful tour. I especially liked that it was very easy and not much walking. We parked right by the factory and gift shop. They have a trolley tour that explains everything about their teas. Our tour guide was funny and enjoyable. I plan to bring friends back for the tour, especially those that don’t want a lot of walking. The tea samples are great. The inside tour is quick and has benches along the way to sit. My recommendation is to go when they are harvesting so you can see the whole process on the tour. We will be back.
B H — Google review
We enjoyed our visit to the tea farm, great tour guide on the trolley and very informative. The factory tour was good and fun to watch. The gift shop had hot and cold teas to try. We had a chance to try the first cut tea of the season which had a rich and buttery flavor. Lots of cute tea items in the shop. They have a wonderful place under trees with picnic tables and nice bathroom facilities.
Terrie White — Google review
We loved this tour. It is such a rare and unique experience to see how tea is grown, harvested, maintained and processed. This is not an Antebellum plantation tour, it is a tour of an active tea plantation. Do not miss the factory tour (which is separate from the trolley tour) and does not have a separate charge. Hopefully you can see the factory in operation, which is most of the time from April to October. It is just down the road from the Angel Oak tree which is very much worth stopping to see as well.
Nicki Athey — Google review
This was the second time my fiancé and I have visited, but the first time with my family. I will always love coming to the Charleston Tea Plantation. There is a free factory tour every 15 minutes on the hour that explains how they process their tea. There is also a trolley tour - $15 per person for ages 12 and up, $7.50 per child ages 4-11. The trolley tour is such an incredible and informative experience. It was fascinating learning about the tea and the history of tea. In addition to the tours, there is also a great gift shop. They have dispensers (hot and cold) so you can try a variety of their teas. I would recommend the Charleston Tea Plantation to anyone wanting to learn more about the history of Charleston!
Jillian Gravizi — Google review
We had the best time visiting on Mother's Day.
We enjoyed the quick factory tour which is about 12 minutes but was very informative. We also had booked, in advance, the trolly tour. Out driver was very nice and provided a good amount of info to supplement the recording. The grounds are fun told walk around. We enjoyed sampling all the different teas for free. If your in the SC area go check them out if your a tea lover.
Debbie Avery — Google review
A must-go if you are a tea fan. Maybe the only large-scale tea plantation in the US. Go on the $15 trolley ride and learn all about tea agriculture. Walk through the free factory tour and learn about processing. Beautiful location, free iced and hot tea tasting, public bathrooms, fun gift shop.
RickK — Google review
A wonderful little experience to fill 2 hours. A cute gift shop with many tea products and free tea samples (hot and cold). A free factory tour that is video led and allows you to see in on the small operation. We paid for the trolley ride through the tea fields with a stop at the greenhouse. It's not super cheap, but a great way to view the only tea farm in North America. We enjoyed it with our kids and would recommend it as something to do during a visit out to see the 400 year old Angel Oak tree and park.
Rebecca McDonald — Google review
This is a good stop if you're in the Charleston area and don't mind doing a little driving, especially if you're a tea fan. There is a large gift shop filled with your standard gift shop items, a free video guided factory tour, and all you can drink hot/cold tea while you're there. I'd say the most impressive thing in their gift shop is tea from their first harvest. Most of the cold tea varieties are sweetened already, and you can find whatever add-ins you may need next to the teas.
They have lots of outdoor seating including picnic tables where you can wait if you're doing the garden trolley tour ($15). The tour was very informative and it included a visit to their greenhouse as well.
Sara O — Google review
The Charleston Tea Garden is such a fun experience. The drive out to it is absolutely serene. Step into the don't shop, where you can browse through a vast collection of craft items, tea, and treats. Sample hot and iced teas of various flavors. (They were all good!) Take a free tour of the factory. It will only take approx. 10-15 minutes. And for $15/person, take the trolley tour of the entire property.
Chris Trethewey — Google review
A must see place if you are a tea lover. It is the only tea farm in the entire region of the country. They process the tea leaves once a week. The trolley tour is really nice. You can sample tea in the gift shop. So many cute things in the gift shop
Eloise J. Li — Google review
Our visit was 28 August 2023 during a family vacation for the week. I am a connoisseur tea drinker, especially for herbal tea varieties. We were a family of 6 women from 80s to 50s. It was nice to ride in the bus with seniors especially in heat. Some of the dust does kick up when it is dry out. We really enjoyed the tour and information provided. The staff were all so pleasant and the sample teas helped in our choices. Yes, we all left with some teas and other items. I am still cherishing the last box of mint tea and apple butter that I have. My two great-nieces enjoy their flower pens. I would recommend a trip to this location. If down with my traveling friends, I would bring them over as well.
Philly Red — Google review
Had the pleasure of visiting the tea garden today. It is a unique to SC experience, offering fascinating history of this one of a kind farm. The spring weather was beautiful for the open window trolly tour. The tour wasn’t terribly long however it included 4-5 stops with explanations, Q and A time, and an audio recording lecture supplemented the drivers speeches. In the gift shop there were hot and cold tea samples available and other items for sale. It was pleasant browsing and the shop attendants were kind and quite knowledgeable. Highly recommend visiting!
Onna Koehn — Google review
The only tea farm in the USA! Free factory tour, free tea tastings, both hot and cold and well stocked gift shop. Restrooms and free parking available. Tour the Tea farm on a tour bus for $15. The tour is about 45 minutes. Our tour guide, Andi, was informative and entertaining. Sara from the gift shop was helpful and took a group photo for us. If you love tea, farming or beautiful scenery, this tour is for you.
Gail Hicks — Google review
One of my favorite places I visited while in Charleston! Our tour guide was hilarious and I learned so much about tea. Who knew green tea and black tea were from the same plant?! The gift shop was full of so many great finds, and there are a few interesting locations to take pictures at. It’s definitely worth the stop!
Kylie — Google review
We very much enjoyed our visit and tour at the Tea Garden. Sally drove us back in to see the fields and greenhouse and gave us some great insights into the industry.
The free tea bar was a treat and the little self guided factory tour was interesting and educational.
Stephen Balza — Google review
This is a great little secret of Charleston. The Charleston Tea Garden is the only location in the US that grows and sells tea. This location has two tour options and a gift shop. As a bonus the gift shop has many cold and hot teas on site that you can enjoy -- unlimited.
The first tour option is free and about 15 minutes long. It takes you through the process of how they process and make different teas. Unless it's bad weather, they generally are harvesting and processing tea daily.
The second tour option has a small fee. I think it was around $15 a person for adults. This is a trolly tour that is covered (great for when it's raining). This tour takes you around their 18 fields and the nursery. You can see first hand how the tea is harvested, learn the history of the tea garden, and quit a lot about tea. The guy giving the tour is fun and knowledgable.
Overall it's a great stop, even if you don't want to take the tour. The tea on site is grown and processed there. The First Flush is the best to get.
brandon dierker — Google review
The Tea Garden is a great place to spend a few hours. It's free to park, walk around, and visit the guest shop plus factory. There are also free restrooms just outside. You can choose to pay for a tour on a bus run by the tea garden. If you choose no to, you can always walk around on your own. It's a pretty place that's worth your time.
Michael Barton — Google review
I did this because I felt it was unique, and I am so grateful. The place itself is beautiful, and our guide, Steve, was knowledgeable and fun. There is a little shop full of cute items and you can, of course, also get some tea. In addition to the gardens and greenhouse, you also get to view the manufacturing area, and they are videos that explain how everything is processed. I learned a lot and really enjoyed my time here!
Nicole Walker — Google review
If you are in the Charleston area, you should not miss this. You’ll learn more than you ever could have imagined about tea.
For example, did you know that all varieties of tea come from the same plant? Yeah, me either.
They have a small little self-guided factory tour, a tasting room with unlimited tea, and a paid trolley tour around the farm. You can spend about a half a day here,and it’s quite educational.
Ben Hendricks — Google review
The Charleston Tea Garden (Plantation) in South Carolina. This is an absolutely BEAUTIFUL plantation. The trolley costs $ and no dogs allowed on it so we didn't ride them but dogs are allowed on the grounds but not image the shop. Parking is FREE, admission is FREE, lots of hot tea and cold tea samples (full cups) inside are FREE, and there is a little self guided tour that's FREE with video and you can see through large windows the factory where they make the Charleston Teas. The gift shop is where the tea tasting is and how you enter the free tour and lots of cool things to buy in there. This is a PERFECT place to go to if you're looking for FREE stuff to do in/around Charleston, SC.
Laura W — Google review
I really enjoyed the trolley tour and tea tasting The charming tour guide was funny and engaging. Seeing the factory inside was also interesting. Even the kids enjoyed it. I never knew there was so much to know about tea. We bought our tickets once we got there and had 45 minutes to taste tea and do the factory tour.
Kim Manning — Google review
Area is comprised of three main activities; main area is the gift shop, behind of which is the free video guided viewing area of a processing factory floor, and the last of which is a trolley tour of the tea plantation. There is no walking around on the plantation nor walking tour permitted.
Gift shop has free tea of varietal flavors in both hot and cold complimentary to sample. Bathroom is outside.
Trolley tour was pretty fun. Had Andie as our tour guide, cracking quirky jokes and tea puns that I assume has been well practiced as she spouted them with great enthusiasm.
Although the tour and videos purport this being the only tea producer in NA, Believe it's really just the largest commercially viable one. Probably due to the historical establishment of the tea plants.
Peyton Hu — Google review
If you know a minimum about tea & always wanted to know more take the time to visit this place. Interesting history & tea processing explained. Endless cups of tea, hot or iced & information to enlighten! Trolly ride around the active farm fields is the only way to see it all. No walking about in the fields on your own allowed as it's an active, working farm. Trolly is worth doing. Enjoyed the ride & the driver was thorough, personable & truly seemed to enjoy sharing his time with us. No question was too large or too small. Gift shop is delightful. Did I say there's endless cups of tea?!!
Dona Brandle-Boylan — Google review
This was a very informative tour and our trolley driver was great! Very informative and passionate about the plantation. The gift shop could use some brighter lights. It's cute and they have a lot of stuff, but some things are hard to read due to lack of light. The tea is good. A different taste than what I'm used to (Numi black breakfast tea), but still very good.
shannon mcferren — Google review
Highly recommended while in Charleston - it's free to visit the site but an additional charge to take the trolley tour.
There is a gift shop with all the tea that you can drink and a factory tour as you walk past a series of recorded video presentations.
Ryan Smith — Google review
We took the Trolley tour while visiting Charleston and loved it! This place is a gem and the people working there are very passionate about their craft. The garden was beautiful and the tour was very educational. They also had samples of different teas available in the gift shop and a short and free factory tour. I would highly recommend visiting!
Molly Sahler — Google review
Such a quiet and relaxing area. We stop in every time we visit Charleston to pick up loose leaf tea. They have different hit and cold teas to sample while visiting. We enjoy sitting outside in one of the ricking chairs, sipping tea just relaxing. They do offer a tour of the plantation which is very informative as well.
Nancy Benton — Google review
If you like tea, this is the place to stop by. My husband and I went on both the property tour and the factory tour. Both of these were informative and interesting! Our guide was upbeat and kind. We really enjoyed listening to him!
Greek Revival columns, walls & a graveyard from the 1750s stand amid oaks covered in Spanish moss.
Great, Beautiful Place. The owners of the place had to place a fence around it to keep people out, due to individuals taking parts of the church home with them. Just saying... If you come to see the Church, please only take pictures.
Tony Brown — Google review
This place is absolutely AMAZING!!! Ruins are bigger than what I was expecting, and I was unaware that it was in the middle of a cemetery. We did have kind of a creepy experience though. In the southwest corner of the grounds we discovered a white sheet on the ground surrounded by a bunch of burned down white candles. Not sure what this was all about, but it gave me a bit of an uneasy feeling. But we enjoyed the remainder of our visit looking at all the old graves, the wickedly beautiful live oak trees and the church ruins themselves. If you like history, you'll LOVE this place! BRING MOSQUITO REPELLENT!! LOTS OF IT.
Kristyn Michael — Google review
A fun little stop pretty close to 95. The ruins are cool and the grounds are covered in droopy trees draped with moss. The ruins themselves are gated closed, however.
Zac Huber — Google review
This is one of my new favorite hidden gems in the Lowcountry. It's absolutely beautiful and so peaceful out here. And we got lucky when we stopped because the grounds keeper was there and let us in the fence!
malissa greathouse — Google review
Such a beautiful place we randomly came across on our way to Savannah. Seems like an amazing place to take photos with the Spanish moss hanging from the trees and the old pillars in the background. This was a very peaceful place to stop and stretch our legs after being on the interstate for several hours.
Christopher Caudle — Google review
If you love taking pictures this place is picture perfect. It was about 15 min out of our way to Savannah but worth the detour. So old and well preserved. Also a graveyard.
Sally — Google review
Gorgeous stop to or from Beaufort with picnic tables as well. This is definitely worth stopping to see, but ensure you have some bug spray during the summer months. There are a HUGE amount of mosquitos and we found other visitors getting bit up as badly as we did. I do hate that the ruins are fenced off, but I understand why they had to. The history is great to read about and the ruins and gravestones are very humbling as well. Definitely recommend!
Ben McCarter — Google review
Beautiful! Love that this is still standing and you are able to go see it! I recommend to others to take a minute to look around the grounds at the different headstones and at the architecture of what remains of the church!
Kara C — Google review
I really liked this place. It has a special feel about it. The gates were open so able to walk around. Easy parking
Julie Dass — Google review
The ruins of thos church was first burned during the American Revolution. Then rebuilt in the 1820s. As I walkef around the church I noticed that almost all the trees wete leaning towards the church. Thete ate a number of graves dating back to the 1700s. I can recomend for a quick free stop on hwyway 17
Moving on with Old man river — Google review
This is just a very cool place. It won’t take you long to enjoy the epic scenery on this road and at these ruins. You won’t regret making the stop, it’s worth it
The area near here is so beautiful. Southern coastal beauty with tall trees that cover the road at places, dripping with Spanish moss, sun dappling through the trees.
There’s lots of shaded grassy areas where you could sit on the grounds. I can’t remember if there’s picnic tables or not.
Also along that road there’s a little pull off places that you can stop and take pictures or just take in the scenery.
The ruins themself have markers that tell you the history behind the ruins and how they were rebuilt and ruined again.
Melissa Sauls — Google review
An absolute must stop and see when traveling the area!
Serene, beautiful and peaceful
It would have been nice to go in the ruins, but I understand why they fenced it off. You can walk around and see gravestones, too. It’s amazing the history in this place.
NO restrooms at the grounds.
Sarah Weber — Google review
Due to selfish people who have vandalized this beautiful church in the last few years, now they have a gate around it. There is parking across the street, but beware vehicles still go 60 miles an hour down the small little road. They really need a caution light so people don’t get hit. I’m in one of the pictures giving a history lesson to some visitors.
Classy Glass Girl — Google review
Amazing place to come see if you're in the Beaufort area. A lot of history in this area and a must see!
Andrew Rodriguez — Google review
Wow, stunning! If you're driving from Savannah to Charleston (or vice versa) highly recommend the roadside stop for a leg stretch! The ruins are absolutely haunting, well intact, and very interesting. The trees at this stop are particularly gorgeous. We ended up spending almost half an hour. I wouldn't go super far out of my way to see it, but if you're going by it, definitely take a peek :)
Robin Pianosi — Google review
A nice place, on a pretty road, with interesting grave stones. In my own opinion, it's definitely worth detouring a few minutes off the road, if you're on your way to or from Beaufort. But I wouldn't make a long trip just for these ruins.
Mr. Ed — Google review
Super interesting historical location to check out. Dates back to the Revolutionary War when the roof was burned by the British. Wish we could have explored in more detail inside the fence, but I understand the need for protection.
Make sure and know there is parking on the other side of the street, it's on a fairly busy local road that people seem to speed down and it can be hard to drive slowly to look and get your bearings.
David Dorris — Google review
Beautiful and atmospheric. Watch the speed limits carefully when you’ll exit the freeway to get there 😉 we got the speeding ticket.
Anna Morozova — Google review
Gorgeous and somber location. Well worth the stop, but make sure if mosquitoes like you, you have bug spray on! It was a rainy day and that added to the eerie feeling. You can sense the history that lies here. The building and graves tell quite the story.
The Hunting Island Lighthouse, a 19th-century structure, features a winding staircase that provides stunning views of the Atlantic and sandy beaches. Though the lighthouse is currently closed, visitors can still enjoy the park's other amenities. The north beach has been replenished with an enormous expanse of white sand and shells, making it a popular spot for picnics on the charcoal grills provided. Hiking trails are available throughout the park, offering flat terrain typical of South Carolina's lowlands.
The lighthouse is closed for remodeling, but the grounds were well kept and the volunteer guide was AMAZING! He had a wealth of knowledge about the area and history as well. Very interesting and beautiful. The beach was beautiful as well and not crowded at all. There was a fee to get inside the state park but it was very cheap and well worth it. All day ticket was access to miles of beach and not lots of people there.
Jennifer Speed — Google review
Only 4 out of 5 since the light house is closed so no view from above. But 5 stars for the replenished north beach. Enormous expanse of white sand and shells are a bonus. Charcoal grills and picnic area filled fast on Saturday by 10am but lots of fun if you find an open grill.. Hikes were also entertaining but flat as one should expect for the lowlands of SC. The lagoon trail offers plenty of chances to venture toward the ocean and co.e back and continue your hike.. New asphalt paving throughout the park makes driving a breeze around the park.
James Skapars — Google review
Absolutely packed. Had a line coming out on rd. So we rode down to the next 2 which was little hunting state park. A gem!!!! Definitely visit it too.
Steph Pick — Google review
We have been to this park / beach a couple occasions, very nice park, pretty beaches and worth the drive. This place can get busy on weekends. North Beach is great for sun rises! Light house is fun to visit. Clean beaches with decent public restrooms. Enjoyed our time here.
Kyle Byrd — Google review
Hunting Island Lighthouse was a true joy to visit. We got lucky and were the only ones in the Lighthouse on our visit so we were able to take our time and enjoy our experience. The grounds are well kept and clean. There is plenty of parking, a rest area, a spot to get snacks and souvenirs.
The staff is upbeat and friendly. The guide at the Lighthouse was a true joy to visit with. She was very informative.
Auguste — Google review
This is a beautiful historic lighthouse. It is in a fenced area, where you will also find a small museum and you will learn a little about the way of life at that time. You cannot go up to the lighthouse, it is closed for security. But you can enjoy its beauty from the surroundings. There are picnic tables, restrooms, shade, and best of all, the sea is just a few steps away, a wonderful beach where you can cool off. Without a doubt, one of the most beautiful lighthouses.
Mariangeles Doctor — Google review
Other than for some of the roads in being quite rough, this is a beautiful lighthouse and beach. (Not an area I’d want to visit in my motorhome due to narrow, rough roads and tree cover) The lighthouse was well kept and well worth the $2 admission to climb to the top. The beach was quite nice as well. An area I’d want to visit time and time again
Doc & Bre On Yonder Roads — Google review
The ride to the lighthouse was absolutely beautiful! My daughter said she felt like she was in a movie. The beach was nice & not crowded! I would love to have climbed the lighthouse.
S Rodgers — Google review
We took the afternoon to go over and explore the island. Very beautiful, beach was not to busy, they had place to set and enjoy the lighthouse view. We loved the drive into to lighthouse and beach.
Brenda Wilhelm — Google review
Beautiful state park, the light house is not open, but is nice to see it. The beach is beautiful, there are so many sand dollars alive. I was lucky to find one that was dead to keep.
Blanca Petrillo — Google review
I live here and this light house is never available for me to go up! It's closed for reparations as we speak. So check before going! But, who cares! There is a wonderful play area for the kiddos, clean bathrooms and gorgeous sandy beaches! And you just never know what treasures you'll find.
Anne Bukovich — Google review
This was a nice and relaxing visit for the end of a perfect day!!!! Wish we could have EXPLORED more and would love to see the Lighthouse inside!!! Enjoyed walking on the beach and feeling the cool Ocean breeze in my face and the noise of the ocean waves and birds!!!!
Rich Norman — Google review
The lighthouse is temporarily closed for repairs and no notice listed on when it may reopen so call first before driving down if that is your main objective. The outside was nice and right by the beach but I really went only to see the inside of the lighthouse so I didn't take many pictures. They have lots of trails and picnic tables close to the beach and lighthouse. The bathrooms were clean and well kept.
THERESSA THERESSA — Google review
Cool place. The lighthouse was closed the last time we went, but I’ve been at the top once. Good view.
Carson Melton — Google review
Wonderful visit to the Hunting Island State Park and seeing the Lighthouse. Recommended for any group age. Easy access to the beach.
Wioleta Colby — Google review
Unfortunately by the time we got here the sun had set. But we still enjoyed visiting the lighthouse and learning the history.
Kimberlee Walgamotte — Google review
Wonderful park. Drive through to the ocean is beautiful. Well maintained. Wasn't able to go in lighthouse. Under renovation.
David Seward — Google review
Wonderful and beautiful part of the Low Country...Hunting Beach Island and the state park...great location to hike and enjoy all the natural beauty
roger parnell — Google review
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2555 Sea Island Pkwy, St Helena Island, SC 29920, USA
Hunting Island is a state park featuring sandy beaches, marshes, a maritime forest, a saltwater lagoon, and a lighthouse. The park is well-maintained and boasts various historical buildings, two beaches with bath houses and beach gift shops, as well as campgrounds with their own gift shop. Driving through the island feels like entering a rainforest due to its lush vegetation.
my favorite beach ever. it’s so peaceful and quiet, at least the part i went to was!! it was also just so beautiful.
Brenna — Google review
This beach captured my heart like very few other places on earth have. Its pristine sands, crystal-blue waters and serene atmosphere make it my favorite beach in the world. Watching the sunrise here feels like witnessing a masterpiece painting come to life. Each visit feels like the first, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Truly, a hidden gem that deserves all the praise and more.
Ken Yamashiro — Google review
I always love Hunting Island. It's well maintained and the beach is beautiful. There is a light house that you can go up in, various historical buildings, a campground, 2 beaches, bath houses, a beach gift shop, and a campground gift shop.
Christina Smith — Google review
Top campground just meters from beach — good facilities, clean, quiet — some fun trails for cycling/hiking — beware the mosquitoes!
Andrew Hood — Google review
Pretty magical Little Beach. Evidently my family's been coming here for years and I finally realized why, the views are fictitious!
Dylan Wisser — Google review
We enjoyed our visit to the island. The drive into the park was remarkable. It would be easy to get lost if they didn't have signs telling you the way out.
Brenda Wilhelm — Google review
What a beautiful park! Driving through seems as though you're entering a rain forest. Gorgeous beach and amazing lighthouse. We were disappointed to find out upon arrival that the lighthouse is closed.
Mary Richardson — Google review
Tranquil, relaxing beach in October. The water was still warm enough to swim. Clean shoreline and the palm trees behind the sand make a peaceful backdrop.
Phyllis Maclay — Google review
Quiet, relaxing beach. Great for shell hunters. Picnic area for family gatherings,with tables and grills.
Robin Walker — Google review
We went twice in one week. The visitor center is a nice first stop. Lighthouse is at the upper (northern) beach with picnic tables (gnats drove us away from lunch there, however, early March). You can find some shells, but had better luck last year. Saw some people on horseback. Not crowded at all; plenty of room! I explored only a small bit of trails; looks great if you want to hike or bike. The road into the park is also beautiful.
Mark Metcalfe — Google review
This is either the end of the world or it’s beginning. Excellent beaches, inland trails, scenic views, camping / campgrounds, fishing piers, history, etc. etc. If you are in Beaufort, go. If you’re in South Carolina, go. Just go!😀
Carl Wahl — Google review
Gorgeous. Miles of beautiful beach along the Atlantic Ocean. The museum was so informative. Can't wait to visit again. Hopefully the Lighthouse will be open to the public
Stacy Wright — Google review
This was our first time visiting and we loved it!!! Driving to the beach you feel like your in a Jurassic park movie!!! The beach is beautiful, filled with shells!! And the lighthouse is magnificent! Be sure to go see it, and there’s a cute little gift shop too!!! Also…. The boneyard beach is simply amazing!!! I’m sure if you go you will enjoy this beautiful area as much as we did!! ☀️🌴
Lyn S. — Google review
This is our 3rd visit to this South Carolina state park and it doesn’t disappoint! Our campsite was on the perimeter of the campground and backed up to the primitive campsites of which none were occupied during our visit
The RV sites have electric and water, fire pit and picnic table and many are heavily wooded and private. Its more of a hard packed sand rather than gravel site for parking. The store has ice, firewood and other supplies.
There’s a trail that you can walk to from the campsites as well as beach access. Other trails start from the 2 other entrances along Sea Island Parkway as well as a short hike on the sound side which connects small islands out in the marsh via boardwalks. That’s a great place for birding. We saw a river otter and 4 Bufflehead ducks hunting fish in the marsh. The trails all offer a variety of scenery from forest to marsh to beach including the ghost forest at the south end of the island. Its a photographer ‘s paradise !
Hiker Shirl — Google review
One of the few South Carolina beaches. The park is clean and they road leading in is interesting.
Robert Rakosi — Google review
Love this place!!! We have been going every year for 14 years. I enjoy the NOT crowded beach, the lighthouse, spacious sites, unique finds in shells & the wildlife. The last couple years price has went up & have started adding fees per night if you bring a Golfcart-so be sure to check for extra charges-love they added a place to wash & dry clothes!
The Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is a well-known park situated along the Beaufort River in downtown Beaufort. It offers visitors a multi-acre of beautiful green space, along with several recreational amenities including a playground and stage for performances. The park was constructed in the 1970s and underwent renovations from 2006 to 2008, providing breathtaking views of Lady's Island, Port Royal Island, Parris Island, and Woods Memorial Bridge.
Love this waterfront park in Beaufort and always visit when I'm in town. Great walking park with swings for two and picnic tables scattered throughout the park. Kids' area/playground at one end.
Lots of trees and personality. Located right behind downtown and next to the parking area (pay lot). Restrooms near kids' area/playground.
Cynthia Edmonds — Google review
Absolutely marvelous!
Beaufort is impeccably clean. Gorgeous views all around but downtown is a different scenery with plenty shops around, restaurants, ice cream parlors, & the park.
Perfect for the little ones or to keep them busy while the rest of your party shops.
The swings throughout this area are a plus to unwind & enjoy.
Iris D — Google review
Lovely walkway along the water. Little shops along the way to pick up ice cream etc. Playground for the kids with lots of tables and chairs as well as benches. Love the swings facing the water. So enjoyable!
TodayIsOurAdventure — Google review
A huge kudos to both the town and whoever designed this park, which is one of the nicest I've ever seen. Absolutely beautiful and well worth a stroll if you're in town for dining or shopping. The "swing benches" are genius and so inviting on a beautiful day. Felt like we were on a movie set or something.
Patrick Dugan — Google review
Even the thunderstorms are amazing. Waterfront park has been one of my favorite places to relax for more than 25 years. Ahhhhh
T. Gardner — Google review
Beautiful park and playground with equipment for a variety of age ranges and abilities. Several benches and a picnic table are available in the enclosed playground which is situated next to public restrooms and parking.
Elaine Benner — Google review
A very nice place to walk anytime of day. The views are breathtaking, the restaurants and shops are great. There was a band playing and they were great! Great place to come and relax and bring the kids to the play area and get ice cream! Highly enjoyable!
Sarah ?Ace? Jones — Google review
This is such a beautiful part of South Carolina. This park has plenty of room for the kids to run around and play, a playground that my kids both love, plenty of restaurants, Ice-cream and some great sunset views. The swings add such a charm to this quaint riverwalk. This park is very popular and can get crowded but worth the fighting. Great views of historic Woods Memorial swing bridge. My wife and I end up there quite a bit on "Date Night". With the public boat dock, this is a great place to arrive on boat, dock and enjoy! They even offer movies under the stars
Anchors Away Sailing Charters — Google review
Picturesque location. Several shaded swing’s along the waterfront to relax. Good choice of bar’s/ restaurants and picnic tables. Playground and amphitheater. There’s much to partake within a few short blocks. Paid parking available @ $1./ hr.
Quaint little town.
Alan H — Google review
Such a great little park! My husband and I took a break from doing the tourist things, and strolled through this park. We sat at a table for a while and then decided to sit in one of the 'porch' swings. While enjoying the river view a gentleman a few yards from us was fishing and caught a small ray. Bathrooms are available nearby and they were clean. Families with kids were enjoying the playground area.
Robin Walker — Google review
The SHRIMP Festival has begun. Oodles of fun. Check out the Rotary Club of Sea Island-Beaufort tent to purchase your SHRIMP for the race tomorrow.
Ruthe Gleason — Google review
The park is beautiful! Lots of open green lawn. Shade for when you need break from the sun. And plenty of benches! We loved that there are even bench style swings to sit and relax. There is a playground for the kids and they might even get to see the bridge turn to let a ship through. The best thing is it's all very clean!
N — Google review
Cool place to walk around in the Beaufort area. Tons of history and decent sites to see.
Andrew Rodriguez — Google review
This park was absolutely beautiful. The scenery and the activities were amazing. My family and I went to the beach. It was stunning and so much fun! The price was also nice. You can beat the pwrk for hours at a time. You can leave and come back without paying anymore!! 10 out of 10 definitely recommend.
Lourdes Colon — Google review
It is very beautiful and relaxing, people were friendly and a great place to walk your dog or just take a leisurely walk on the waterfront.
Debbie Engler — Google review
Visited Beaufort on American cruise lines ship. What a Beautiful friendly clean waterfront. The shops are fantastic and the views are amazing. Just don't forget the Beaufort wave
Darren Sparks — Google review
This waterfront park is beautiful! It's a great place to catch a vivid Lowcountry sunset from one of the many swings, or watch boats go by, and maybe see the swing bridge open for a larger one. It's also a great venue for the many festivals that Beaufort has throughout the year.
Darcie Osborne — Google review
Relax. Have fun. Get food. Shop.
Public restrooms available. Playground for kids.
Find a bench swing at the waterfront. Great for "sittin' on the dock of the bay watchin' the tide roll away."
Mark Metcalfe — Google review
Wonderful and beautiful and relaxing spot to enjoy the scenery...peruse a little history...and enjoy local bars and restaurants
Shelter Cove Community Park is a popular gathering spot in the city that hosts frequent shows and festivals. In addition to its entertainment value, the park also features green space for sports and fitness activities. The park is well-designed for children to burn off energy, making it an ideal destination for families with young kids. Located in Hilton Head, the park is surrounded by great shopping options including numerous restaurants and small shops.
Shelter cove has some of the best shopping in restaurants hands down. This park was so well designed for the kids. They were able to burn some energy off so they could behave well at the dinner table. We went twice in our week vacation down there in Hilton Head. Highly recommend stopping by here if you have kids. Let them burn some energy off so they don't act up at the store's while shopping lol
Emily Banks — Google review
Beautiful path to walk or bike along the marsh/water. Great for bird watchers. Mixed path - paved and raised wood decking over marsh. Art sculptures too.
Jeanne Louks — Google review
Shelter Cove Community Park is a beautiful park located adjacent to the Shelter Cove Towne Centre. It includes a large grassy area for recreation, a stage for concerts, and an area with playground equipment for children. Plus, it has a gorgeous view of the marshland. It's a beautiful place to run and play or simply to sit and relax.
Greg Squyres — Google review
This is a awesome Greenway that goes put over the edge of the marsh area near shelter cove. There is open parking at the end, and there are two small parks that this takes you to.
One is a veterans memorial park with pavers of some veterans of various wars. I am not sure how the featured veterans were chosen, but still a pretty stop
The 2nd park is behind shelter cove shopping center, and has a playground, and gazebo area as well as easy access to shops and restaurants.
The whole trail is probably about a mile, but might be a nice excursion if you find yourself in the area
Andrew McAllister — Google review
Have been here a couple times while visiting the area.. Nice park with good views. There are stores and small shops. Also a few nice restaurants and club located close by.
john sgrulletta — Google review
Love this park. It's close the restaurants and shopping and has the Memorial park. It's a great place to watch the sunset and to look at the amazing Memorial built for veterans. You can even purchase a brick for a veteran and they will have there name there for ever. They have done such a good job in building a beautiful park. It's a MUST visit while you're in HHI.
Don K — Google review
Cute little park with a community market on Sundays. Location was excellent to do extra shopping after the market. Playground was perfect for kids of different ages to explore and had good benches for parents.
Morgan Melton — Google review
This is new to us. Wonderful amenity. Well laid out paths, nice views, respectful of the natural environment. Nice veterans memorial. Perfect place for sunset pics. Connects to other Shelter Cove paths. Highly recommended
Brian Capron — Google review
Shelter Cove Community Park is a very well-designed shopping center, community park for the whole family to enjoy. All of the photos were taken on our recent visit at Christmas and the park is just beautiful! The playground is great with rubber mulch and very cushioned for wild kids like mine:). Large grass area to run around or picnic with the family. Hilton Head puts on events there all the time such as movie nights under the stars, snow at the beach, 4th of July celebrations etc. Check with the community calendar to make sure you don't miss out on any of the great events going on there. This is a park we often take people that come to the beach to visit us. They always seem to maintain the park very well and we will continue to go there as it is just a great place to hang out, walk around, shop, eat, date night and of course go and see Santa Clause at Christmas!
Anchors Away Sailing Charters — Google review
It's a wonderful community park but there's very little shade along the boardwalk so pick your days carefully and wear lots of sunscreen. The views are absolutely beautiful
Ralph Landi — Google review
Beautiful place to watch the sun set!
SEG — Google review
This was one of our favorite stops as a family on our day-long biking trip! Beautiful waterfront views and a very well put-together park with lots of seating, a very nice playground (with video surveillance), and restrooms. This park is right next to the French Bakery and other good eateries.
Devon McKenzie — Google review
This is a wonderful place to watch the sunset. There are walking trails, picnic benches and a nice playground for kids. Lots of children, families, teens and elderly enjoying the evening. Several people were walking their dogs. This location is near the marsh and is very peaceful. We saw lots of water birds flying overhead heading to the rookery for the night.
Debbie Wilburn — Google review
The best on this side of the island! Free and a playground foe kids with water fountain, restrooms lots of seats and walking for the family. Sunscreens in the bathrooms and lots of cameras around to spy on you! And free wifi however not enough handicap parking.
Cya Vsqz — Google review
4.7
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5.0
(2815)
39 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a protected natural area that offers various activities such as walking paths, boat tours, and an archaeological site constructed with seashells. This wildlife habitat, known as the Sea Pines Shell Ring, has been designated as a historic place and boasts diverse landscapes like bridle paths, wetland boardwalks, bridges, and fishing docks. Visitors can also explore vast areas of untouched nature including rice fields and swamps while observing the local flora and fauna.
We had a wonderful time at both the Walking & Driving areas of the Preserve. If you're not staying at Sea Pines or have a pass already, you will need to purchase one. The day pass was $9.00. The trails on the walking areas were well maintained and marked. The Rice Field Boardwalk was just teeming with wildlife. The Vanishing Swamp boardwalk didn't have much wildlife, but the foliage was gorgeous. The driving area was beautiful with the ponds and wildflower area. Very narrow roadway. Overall a very lovely, well maintained preserve.
Kyriya — Google review
If you enjoy beautiful 3-mile nature walks, you will enjoy Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Well-marked trails meander around several lakes in the preserve, allowing for sightings of turtles, alligators, and assorted birds. Boardwalks navigate over former rice fields and swamp land. Horses travel down designated bridal trails and recreational bicyclers enjoy the preserve on wheels. But it's mostly hikers, more during tourist seasons and rather sparse during the cooler fall and winter months. In the middle of the preserve near Lake Joe is Fish Island, a place with a shelter, picnic tables, grills, drinking water, and portable toilets. And at Lake Mary, Fisherman's Point extends to the center of the lake with a fishing deck. The trails are easy, and families with young children can often be seen enjoying nature together. Maps of the preserve may be picked up at the trail's entrance. There is a charge for non-residents to enter Sea Pines, but there are opportunities in Sea Pines for hiking, biking, shopping, golfing, and dining, all in beautiful settings.
Greg Squyres — Google review
Really pretty location. Lots of easy trails to hike on for hours. We were here in the winter time, so we didn't see too many animals. I'd say the most lacking thing is the restrooms, there just weren't enough of them for the size of the park.
Olivia Rene — Google review
Day pass fee is 9 dollars per car, pretty reasonable I thought. We just did the preserve but there seems to be an entire world back behind that gate! Who knew?? The preserve is very nice, flat trails very well marked. The raised walkways through the swamps are in great shape, we saw tons of Anoles (small lizards), Heron, ducks and other birds and I'm sure in warmer weather there of lots of gators. Great place to walk the dog or kids!
Matt M. — Google review
Nice trails that are marked. There is also a boardwalk. The place is easy to find and plenty of parking as well . To get inside the Sea Pines area, you need a pass that is $9. But you can come and go as many times during that day.
Sanjeeta Pai — Google review
Really beautiful preserve. It was winter (January) but we saw some animals entering the preserve and in the preserve. Shell ring was interesting. It is $9 to enter this part of the island. Thought it was worth it for the day. Perhaps seeing animals made it all the more enjoyable.
Todd Nolan — Google review
The trails here are nice and flat and well maintained. Beautiful scenery. You will pay a $9 charge to enter this portion of the island unless you're a resident or renter in Sea Pines. Signs were very helpful when navigating the preserve. Highly recommend.
Lori Wilson — Google review
FYI - $9 fee to get into Sea Pines. I’m from out of town and didn’t know this until I arrived at the gate.
The forest preserve trails are very well maintained and you’ll hear and see tons of wildlife.
There’s a warning sign for alligators but don’t forgot to keep an eye out for snakes too.
Jesus Leon — Google review
Beautiful and quiet place to take a morning run. A great way to see the flora and fauna of the low country.
Jared Mumley — Google review
It's okay. $9 for a day pass to walk around a kind of average state park. Trails are well maintained and grounds are well kept. Saw a few turtles, a couple gators, a snake, and several cranes. But if you expect a lot nature, you should consider driving the 20 minutes to Pinckney National Preserve. I enjoyed it way more and it was free. Just get there early to get parking.
burbn101 — Google review
lots of loops & hiking to do, wildlife, & some great spots to take a break. Some cool bridges & boardwalks as well.
Celeste — Google review
Great place to visit, we even saw a few alligators. Small admission fee of $9 a car. Lots of other things to do in Sea Pines as well.
Dan Waitt — Google review
The trails were nice, but the weather wasn't so little to no critters out and about. Shell ring was not as expected. Several lakes and different types of trails. Dirt, sand, and boardwalk style.