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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Ocracoke to St. Augustine?
The direct drive from Ocracoke to St. Augustine is 656 mi (1,056 km), and should have a drive time of 12 hrs 55 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Ocracoke to St. Augustine, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Savannah, Jacksonville, Raleigh, Durham, Columbia, Beaufort, Fernandina Beach, North Charleston, Fayetteville, and Chapel Hill, as well as top places to visit like Fort Macon State Park and North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, or the ever-popular North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace.
The top cities between Ocracoke and St. Augustine are Savannah, Jacksonville, Raleigh, Durham, Columbia, Beaufort, Fernandina Beach, North Charleston, Fayetteville, and Chapel Hill. Savannah is the most popular city on the route. It's 10 hours from Ocracoke and 3 hours from St. Augustine.
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.
17% as popular as Savannah
25 minutes off the main route, 44% of way to St. Augustine
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.
12% as popular as Savannah
46 minutes off the main route, 44% of way to St. Augustine
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Chapel Hill is a town in North Carolina. It's home to a campus of the University of North Carolina, which is known for its basketball team. The Ackland Art Museum exhibits European and Asian art. The North Carolina Botanical Garden has nature trails and themed gardens. The Morehead Planetarium & Science Center runs a program of live demonstrations. Franklin Street is lined with shops, restaurants and bars.
2% as popular as Savannah
53 minutes off the main route, 44% of way to St. Augustine
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 Savannah
2 minutes off the main route, 48% of way to St. Augustine
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.
11% as popular as Savannah
32 minutes off the main route, 62% of way to St. Augustine
I'll never travel to St. Augustine without this trip planner again
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 Savannah
35 minutes off the main route, 64% of way to St. Augustine
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.
7% as popular as Savannah
22 minutes off the main route, 72% of way to St. Augustine
Savannah, a charming coastal city in Georgia, is famous for its well-maintained parks, horse-drawn carriages, and historic architecture. The city's historic district features cobblestone squares and picturesque parks like Forsyth Park with its oak trees draped in Spanish moss. The Gothic-Revival Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist stands at the heart of this area.
Most popular city on this route
9 minutes off the main route, 77% of way to St. Augustine
Fernandina Beach, located on Amelia Island in Florida, is the county seat of Nassau County and the northernmost city on Florida's Atlantic coast. It is part of Greater Jacksonville and was originally inhabited by the Timucuan Indians.
7% as popular as Savannah
22 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to St. Augustine
Jacksonville, the most populous city in Florida, is situated on the Atlantic coast of northeastern Florida and serves as the seat of Duval County. Known for its vast area, it offers a diverse range of experiences from coastal enclaves to downtown attractions along the St. Johns River. The city's consolidation with Duval County in 1968 expanded its reach, making it the largest city by area in the contiguous United States.
18% as popular as Savannah
1 minute off the main route, 94% of way to St. Augustine
Best stops along Ocracoke to St. Augustine drive
The top stops along the way from Ocracoke to St. Augustine (with short detours) are Savannah Historic District, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. Other popular stops include Coligny Beach Park, Fort Clinch State Park, and Driftwood Beach.
The North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace is a modern and family-friendly museum that offers hands-on displays about NC history. Visitors can explore the exhibits, watch rotating films, listen to depictions from individuals in James City, and interact with various gadgets. The museum also features a waterfront cafe and a store for visitors to enjoy. It's an informative place of historical contentment where one can learn about the state's past through guided tours and educational experiences.
Fans of history will enjoy this museum and the Tyron Palace tour. The tour of the interior was about an hour long. I enjoyed our excellent guide “the Englishman” who was both knowledgeable and comedic. The grounds are well kept and I enjoyed walking the gardens on a sunny but chilly December day. Not sure that I would recommend this for very young children, but historically curious kids who are entertained by learning would likely enjoy this visit. The gift shop has a nice selection of interesting trinkets and books. The indoor museum galleries offer interesting facts and perspectives on the natural and human history of the area. I spent about 3 hours here, including the 1 hr palace tour, as an individual. I would visit again to read the galleries in further detail.
Ashley Sweeney — Google review
A definite must do if you love history. We enjoyed our time here. We learned a lot taking the guided tour.
Tracy Witzigman — Google review
Amazing history! The museum was pretty incredible, they have done an absolutely wonderful job curating the artifacts here. The history of this location is very interesting and there was so much more than we ever thought. If you have kids the Time Machine and hands on area alone is worth the visit. WOW!! Y'all have done an awesome job here! Thank you so much for sharing this with the public.
Jeff Grant — Google review
Enjoyed looking at all the historical places and items. Walked thru the quaint little shops downtown and had a lovely lunch. Also enjoyed a scoop of honemade ice cream in a waffle cone.
Darlene Bass — Google review
Neat little place to find out more about Tryon palace and some side activities that cost a little extra but give you a more in-depth look into history.
Alicia Hesser — Google review
Absolutely wonderful experience. The house itself is extremely beautiful and somewhat cosy despite its grandeur. The best part of the visit was the guides themselves. Extremely interesting commentary. Their work really brings history to life. The centre itself is a little more lowkey but remains very interesting and educational.
Vavabeille — Google review
Super, super informative history museum. I literally spent a few hours here watching the film they have playing in rotation, listening to actual depictions of individuals from James City, and any other interactive gadgets I could find. I read every single word this museum had to offer. I had the absolute best time ever! I was at a place of historical contentment.
Deidra — Google review
A wonderful way to spend the afternoon! The gardens are a must see! Take your time and read the plaques, it's worth it.
Ali Likes To Write — Google review
I organize an automotive tour that takes place in the spring and fall each year. We arranged to make the Palace a stop for our group and they absolutely enjoyed it. Arranging our stop was easy and the sales staff was a joy to work with. We had a very knowledgeable tour guide who was flat out awesome! He was more than happy to answer questions and did so in period correct costume. I highly recommend this location as it was one of the highlights of our trip! Everyone in our group had nothing but great things to say abut our visit.
Tony “Tony's Driven” Intrieri — Google review
We had such a great time at this museum after touring Tryon Palace!! They have an interactive portion where you can “print a newspaper”, help make roast duck and other receipts, steer a ship, make a quilt, and make turpentine.
Erika Dobbins — Google review
Fun afternoon adventure. Learned a lot of fun facts and history. The staff and recreations were beyond my expectations.
1.5 miles of ocean beach for swimming & hiking, fishing inlets & tours of a restored Civil War fort.
Great place to bring the kids to learn about history and runoff some extra energy and it’s free! I return to this beautiful state park at the end of the crystal coast time and time again with my young children and they enjoy it every time.
The well kept grassy areas around the top of the Fort and the mysterious arched tunnel ways and large brick rooms are always fun to traverse.
The cannons and munitions all around are interesting and fun for the children to climb on and explore. Sunsets at the fort are incredibly beautiful.
Justin Porto — Google review
The park surrounding the fort has nature trails and beach access. There is plenty of free parking and restrooms are available at the fort, the focal point of the park. You can easily spend a half day here, touring the fort, walking the trails and/or lounging or fishing on the beach, which offers nice views of the Beaufort inlet. Everything in the park is clean and well kept.
Alan Marshall — Google review
History with a gorgeous view! We are locals but we always take our guests here. Everyone enjoys it because there’s a fort, a beach, and walking trails—something for everyone. We especially love to take our dogs to walk on the beach or the outstanding nature trails during the off season.
Esther Bonardi — Google review
Visited in late February. Its a cool park with a lot of history. Decent amount of area to walk around; inside there's a small interpretive area, outside there is the main fort building as well as some other trails.
The inside area is OK. The displays seemed a bit low effort and were geared more towards children.
The outside was better. However if you're going on a self guided tour beware that depending on the time of year many of the exhibits in the actual fort may be closed.
Exercise caution with children, there's a lot of areas to trip, fall, and otherwise be injured.
If you're in the area, it's worth a stop.
M — Google review
This was a great stop on a work trip before leaving to head home. Historical places are something I just enjoy and this is a great one. And it's free to explore! Definitely keep an eye on little ones if you have them with you due to no safety rails around the top. Posted a few of the pics from the trip but definitely couldn't post them all. So much history to learn here! Will definitely visit again!
J — Google review
So clean. Easy parking. Offers clean changing rooms with showers and bathrooms. The beach was clean! Affordable concessions and the staff was very friendly. They also handled a situation that involved an intoxicated woman and a child incredibly well.
Lori H — Google review
Fun place to take kids. They do a shooting demonstration, you can walk through the rooms and bunkers, there are informational rooms with ac to cool down between walking and they offer tours. The beach is located right off the parking lot so it’s a great place to stop for two attractions at once! Stairs are steep in some sections but it is handicap accessible.
William Perry — Google review
Ft Macon is fantastic! Don't miss the experience,it will thrill you! Imagine yourself defending the NC coast during that particular time period....a very dangerous situation indeed,it took plenty of courage & commitment, that's what Patriots do.....
Felix Mirabal — Google review
Fort Macon is a really cool place to visit. The fort is in excellent condition and has been well-preserved. You can see how the fort would have looked when it was in use - certain rooms in the fort have been set up to look like they would have during the war. There are cannons set up on the top of the fort, too. There is a visitor's center that has been built in recent years that is really neat. You can learn more about the history of the fort as well as the surrounding habitat. There is a gift store inside offering lots of things, such as children's toys, clothing, books and souvenirs. After exploring the fort, you can walk across the parking lot to get to the beach. It's a great place to hang out, and kids will love it too.
Erinn Drake — Google review
This is an awesome historical landmark to explore! It was rainy on the day we visited and we still braved the weather to explore every nook and cranny. The main building has some nice exhibits and staff to answer questions as well as a store. The fort itself also has exhibits and lots to explore! Fun for kids and adults—just supervise children as some of the steps are very steep. If it is wet, and you really want to explore, make sure you have appropriate footwear for puddles and a little bit of mud.
Ashley Rodgers — Google review
Great place for the family. We came here on vacation and the walk and beach area are amazing with wonderful ocean views. The bunker/museum area was absolutely wonderful and they made it great for all ages. I highly recommend going here, and it's free. Such an educational experience.
Kellie Wohlford — Google review
Great place to visit especially if you are a history buff. The fort is in excellent condition. The separate visitors center has a nice gift shop as well as a museum. Definitely worth the visit but I strongly recommend bringing bug spray.
Eagle Mountain — Google review
Absolutely Awesome Experience! It was a great time and adventure to go there and learn all the history. The scenery of the beaches was beautiful. And it felt so enjoyable to take in the scenery of exploring the fort. Without any doubt going to Fort Macon is an awesome, fun, and great opportunity to take advantage of! Have a great day!!!😃☀️🇺🇸⚓️🌊
Jack Carello — Google review
A great place to visit for history enthusiasts and all. Nice walking trails and beach areas also.
Sandra Sudduth — Google review
While I'm not a history buff and I don't usually seek out Forts, this place is really cool and worth a visit if you're in the area.
The construction of Fort itself is really interesting and the park service has done an excellent job utilizing the space with historic exhibitions and artifacts.
Outside of the Fort, there's beach access (No swimming as the currentsare too strong) for fishing, and access to a nature trail.
Charity Jules — Google review
Fort Macon was built to protect trade decades ago & now is a superb rebuild of how the 5 Star designed fort’s were built for coastal protection.
Fishing, walking, beach activities can all be found here. And around the Fort itself, lots of mosquitos. Bring & use your big spray.
It is a great day trip if you want history, museum & relaxing on the coast.
Restrooms, gift shop, ADA accessible to all areas here.
David Danner — Google review
Early spring in coastal NC? Nothing compares! Lovely beach and nice short dog friendly walking trail. We will be back!
Marina Bonaventura — Google review
Easy access from parking lot: has a ramp and stairs.
Well maintained and clean sand (no trash/no broken glass) with lots of sea shells.
Beautiful experience.
We went at 6:00pm, an hour before closing one October evening and there were not many people.
GREAT for a simple walk on the beach in the Fall.
Bill — Google review
4.8
(6000)
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5.0
(1073)
2303 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, USA
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.
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!!
Sarah P. Duke Gardens is a large botanical garden with many attractions, including a wildlife garden, koi pond, and amphitheater. The gardens are located on the Duke University campus in Durham, North Carolina.
It's absolutely stunning, and it's a fantastic spot for a scenic stroll and photography. There's a lot to see, so you'll probably need to come back a couple of times depending on your mood for a long, long walk. A beautiful body of water with this adorable red bridge is only a small part of the scenic beauty that this park has to offer. It's also completely free. ( Parking is only $2/hr) unfortunately gift shop was closed because of private even.
nitish deshpande — Google review
This place is amazing! Fun for the whole family if they are able to appreciate beauty. Notice: Wear walking or supportive sportswear because there's lots of different attractions and trails. Might be too large of a walking area for toddler's and young children.
paisleygirl — Google review
Probably one of the most well laid out parks I’ve visited, and this was my first time visiting. The only bummer was that there were some areas closed off due to landscaping so I wasn’t able to get photos there, but this park is a nature enthusiast or photographer’s dream. There’s such a broad spectrum of plants throughout the garden that you just have to see. The ground along the paths are pretty even which makes for comfortable walking since you will find something eye catching down every path. I wasn’t planning on going on a misty day, but the photos I took still came out amazing. Would love to do photoshoots in this location.
Dana Dane — Google review
This botanical garden took me by surprise! It looks small from the road but it is quite large with plenty of walking paths. Even though it was moderately busy when i went it didn’t feel like it since there’s so much space to walk around in!
All the flowers, bushes, and other plants are meticulously maintained and it truly is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens I’ve ever been to.
Tayler T — Google review
Nice walk through various regions themed gardens and woodland. Not busy, pay to park. Staff very helpful and polite. It has a children's discovery area with staff supervision indoors and out.
Great place to chill with tree coverage providing shade.
John Turnbull — Google review
This place is such a beauty to behold! You literally feel like you enter a place of enchantment. There's various gardens with different themes. Many places to sit and enjoy your surroundings during your exploration. The gardens are massive, so rest areas are great! There's workers riding golf carts who you periodically see to answer any questions and give directions. Definitely an amazing experience.
Deidra — Google review
*LOVED* this place!! We moved here from Idaho in September and have been exploring a lot. This has been our favorite place so far. If you are from here, you might not realize how special it is to have banana trees and bamboo just growing outside in nature under pine trees and elms and maple trees. In Idaho, there was only pine so you didn't see leaves change colors with the seasons at all. I can't believe how colorful everything is here!! It's the thing I had been looking forward to the most, and it didn't disappoint.
There's a smell outside as you walk around. It's this earthy tree smell that is my absolute favorite smell in the whole world (tied for the #1 spot with my daughter's head and my dog's feet). It was a 76 degree day with a light breeze and it felt like walking around in a rainbow heaven. The grounds are beautiful and there's lots to see. I'm certain we'll come back frequently.
That being said, I will give one suggestion. It's a little bit hard to get around with my daughter's wheelchair and it would be helpful if paths were marked with arrows showing which way to go if you're in a wheelchair. They had an info both but it was busy so we skipped it, and I'm sure they could have told us where to go. Alas! We had to backtrack a little bit here and there, but there were other ways to get around. We took a detour to the chapel which was about an 8 minute walk from the gardens, and we did have to go up some stairs for that part. It was so pretty though and barely out of the way. Worth seeing. I expected only one chapel, but the university has tons of buildings that look like ancient mini castles. I didn't expect it to be so utterly breathtaking.
Back to the gardens, there were some gravel areas inside the gardens that we decided to skip. Otherwise, the majority of the gardens were very accessible. We all loved this place so much.
Holly — Google review
Beautiful garden .My wife and I visited in February and we couldn't believe how fragrant everything was at that time of year. We will definitely return in spring. Very nice walking paths with maps and signage. Dogs allowed in yhe mornings and evenings, which is awesome.
Highly recommend.
Brian Maynard — Google review
One of my favorite gardens! So beautiful and much bigger than I anticipated. I loved the educational section on growing produce/farming for children. If I lived in Durham, I’d come here all the time to read, picnic, and take a stroll. And it’s free! (Just $2/hr for parking). Photos were taken 10/31/21, so some of the flowers weren’t blooming. Would visit again in the Spring.
Greeshma James — Google review
Beautiful gardens with even more various colors of flowers and plants all over the place. Gardens is maintained well and walking through gives you good feel all the way through. It's most famous for its natural light and scenery views for capturing your beautiful memories of any events or occasions😍 better carry strollers if you going with kids or toddlers as the walk can be easy with it instead of carrying them all the time.definitely makes you feel good and worth visiting this place.
B Keerthi Naragoni — Google review
Yes, please go there and enjoy the breathtaking gardens. Different plants and flowers, they decorate everything in a beautiful way. It was super hot, but we enjoyed every single stop. The entry is free, but you have to pay 2 dollars/ hour for the parking.
Areen dhoon — Google review
Wow!! We were blown away by how beautiful and well kept everything was. You do have to have cash for parking. It was $2.00 per hour.
It would be a great place for family pictures and can’t wait to go back to have a picnic there. Lot’s of shade and areas to place picnic blanket and sit with the family.
They do have restrooms around the area and it is very helpful with little ones.
Arelys Delgado — Google review
Duke Gardens are a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of Durham, North Carolina. The gardens are home to a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees, from the Japanese Garden to the Discovery Garden. There are also walking trails, a lake, and a chapel.
The Japanese Garden was particularly stunning, with its koi pond, waterfalls, and bamboo groves. The Discovery Garden was also a lot of fun, with its interactive exhibits and play areas.
The gardens are free to visit, but there is a fee for parking. There is a small parking lot at the entrance to the gardens, but it can fill up quickly. There is also street parking available, but it can be difficult to find.
If you are visiting the gardens in the off-season, be aware that some of the trees may be dry and without flowers. However, the gardens are still worth a visit, as the beauty of the architecture and landscaping is still evident.
Sasank Gadiko — Google review
Visited with my boyfriend last Spring and the scenery was gorgeous. Lots of different kinds of flowers to view, as well as walking trails. We also stopped at the little shop and bought popsicles to cool down. Great place to visit and lots you can do!
Lilie Wilkinson — Google review
The visit to the Duke Gardens on the campus of Duke University was spectacular. Much of the gardens were still in bloom. The staff, volunteers and workers were quite pleasant, very knowledgeable as well as helpful. It was a beautiful day to spend walking amid such floral beauty. We brought a simple picnic lunch to enjoy at the conclusion of our walk. If you are in the area, leave at least an hour or more to enjoy this treasure.
Michael Cohen — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. Visited twice while in town and still didn't get to see everything because it was so big. My favorite was the vegetable garden which consisted of a compost and watering system and a bee keeping section. The workers and volunteers were super nice. There was a little building that sold snack and wraps that were delicious,fresh and reasonably priced. They also had a gift shop and area where you could purchase plants. The garden is free but you have to pay to park but the parking fee is reasonable but parking fills up quick.
Jacque 3777 — Google review
A most beautiful and delicate "World" of beauty, wonderment, joys, and serenity... filled with colors and textures and the miracles of Nature to feed our souls and hearts... while also offering to our eyes delightfully labeled plants and flowers to educate our minds as well...
Go there to walk around... or lay down on the grass... and rejoice in beauty and serenity all at once...
I so love that little heaven on earth...
Enjoy ❤️
Pascal Monmoine — Google review
Good place for relaxing. Lots of Verities of trees, flowers and plants. Good walking trail. Parking online $2 per hour. You can use free parking a few blocks away. Must visit between March 15 to 30 to see the full blossoms of cherry. 2 toilets, one in the main building and another in the middle of the park. A few free drinkable water fountains too.
Blaise C — Google review
I love Duke Gardens. It's my favorite garden in NC. I've been there many times in summer, fall, and spring. Every season has a different charm. The Asiatic Arboretum is my favorite part. It's like you're in Japan, walking around the pond, where you'll see a lot of wildlife: turtles, ducks, and I even saw a great blue heron, which was amazing!
I went there today 3/14/24 the cherry blossom trees at the entrance are in full bloom! It was so beautiful, like a cloud of blossoms. The blooms should stay intact for about a week, depending on the weather. I recommend stopping by for photographs no later than next week and also visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowd. No entrance fees!
Topsail Island is a barrier island accessible by car, spanning 26 meters in length. It boasts of maritime forests and a sea turtle sanctuary, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The pier on the island provides breathtaking views and features soft sand beaches that are less crowded, making it a great spot for surfing and swimming among fish. Visitors can find plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, and ice cream parlors in the area for their convenience.
This is the nicest, most beautiful beach I have ever been to. It is family-friendly, accessible, and fun! There are turtle sightings daily, little fish, and nice little shops downtown.
Greta Gage — Google review
I’ve been coming here since I was a few months old. Probably one of the best beaches in the coast of North Carolina! Very peaceful and family like. This is like my second home :)
Kim Romero — Google review
South Topsail Island is a great getaway from the hustle bustle of life. Beach is nice, only a couple hotels, couple of restaurants. Breezeway Inn is clean, easy walk to the beach, restaurant is good.
Kim B — Google review
Great place to vacation. Beaches are nice, and plenty of food in the area.
Karsten Peterson — Google review
Have been coming to Topsail Island for many years. It has grown a lot. Some of that is good but other times I wish it would have stayed smaller and more charming but it is my favorite beach. The beach itself is the best anywhere. The people are friendly and the restaurants offer the best seafood around. Love this place.
Cindy Lindsey — Google review
Great beach. Not too crowded
Drenna Alexander — Google review
My ”boyfriend” took me down here as a “family vacation” and turned it into a proposal on the beach!! 🥹 This place was absolutely amazing and the places were all nice too! Everything about this place is magical and I hope one day we could have our own beach house on the same beach he proposed! We’re currently married and enjoying life!
(Went there back in 2021- we were both 18 at the time and fresh outta HS) I HIGHLY recommend coming here for ANY vacation! It’s just so fun!!!
Jordan Shotts — Google review
Been going to Topsail for almost 40 years. It’s my family’s bit of heaven. We spend quality time with our family. The beaches are beautiful. Sunrises are amazing. Great places to eat and shop
Ann Harazin — Google review
Love that it's still an old-timey beach in some locations!
Jeannette Lanier — Google review
Visit Topsail 🐠🐟
Breathtaking views from the pier
with beautiful soft sand beaches that are less crowded ⛱☀️
A great spot to surf 🏄♀️ and swim between the waves 🌊 among all the fishies 🐠.
There are plenty of restaurants, coffee and ice cream 🍦 shops around the area.
There’s a $1.00 entrance fee to the pier unless you’re fishing 🎣 ($10.00)
Parking was easy to find when we visited.
We had an epic 🤙🏼 time here!
Jennifer Garcia — Google review
Great vacation spot! It's not too crowded and it's very relaxing. The locals are super friendly and the stores and restaurants are reasonably priced.
Christianna OReilly — Google review
I went down to topsail island to take photos for my business RedSky Images Photography. I love it there! It’s a great place to visit and a great place to photograph! I recommend everyone take a trip here at least once!
Scotti Dunn — Google review
I don't want to share this beautiful place.its a five in my heart but I'm rating it a one so it retains it's charm. It's lovely and mostly quiet except for the occasional military aircraft. Gorgeous beaches. North topsail is where you want to be to literally get away from it all. No nearby stores. Surf City is about 20 min down the island.
Ali G — Google review
This is a beautiful beach. One of our last trips to see My late Great Aunt Lila Ingram in North Carolina, we visited Topsail Beach after church. The beach is peaceful and serene.
Island Gurl Dat — Google review
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North Topsail Beach, NC 28460, USA
8
South of the Border Motor Inn
Motel
Water & Amusement Parks
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.
The State House is a famous tourist destination and the capital of South Carolina. It is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture and was built in 1851. The highly-regarded design work of John Niernsee makes it one of the most beautiful state government offices in the country. The grounds include monuments to historical figures such as George Washington and S.C. Senators, as well as fallen State Law Enforcement Officers.
A friend of ours who lives in the area took us on a tour of the grounds and then we went into the building for a quick peek inside.
The grounds are well kept with a lot of statues/monuments and history. We especially loved their African American History Monument - long overdue.
The picture of the “ship” etched into the ground is an eye opener. You can see the way the laves were transported side by each and crammed in there. The way they were treated is horrible and the story needs to be told.
The State Building had gone through a long renovation and it is beautiful inside.
We loved the law enforcement memorial and it is very cool that the blue lights leading up to it from the walkway light up at night.
Sheri Lucas — Google review
My first time visiting and I enjoyed walking the grounds of the SC State House. The staff on-site were very friendly and informative. I wish I could of stayed to explore more, but it was a hot day.. and my children were not very thrilled to be walking around in the heat. We will be back though once the weather cools down a bit.
Dina — Google review
Definitely recommend a stop here. There is also a parking garage near by and a short walk to the main street area as well. We spent a solid hour just outside walking around the grounds. Very beautiful building and interesting history here. Lots of it. The stairs and view outside is worth going to view alone. When facing the building from main street the original building was a little to the right until it was burnt down in a war. The city was great to view and enjoy for the bringing in of the new year. The fireworks were great and wonderful to watch from the middle of main street and the oldest streets in the city.
brittany hemingway — Google review
Beautiful state capital. The grounds and all the history present is wonderful. So proud that the South Carolina state capital counties to honor the citizens of its past . Beautiful Confederate monuments on grounds. Love showing my family our countries history. Great job !
C Davis — Google review
Highlight of my Columbia visit. Awesome grounds very well kept. Nice statuary and interesting stories about origins and age of trees planted. The capital building itself had great architecture and artwork. Stained glass windows were awesome pictures cant do justice. Lawmakers were not in session so we could look anywhere there wasn't a locked door. Well worth visit. Don,t bring any knives, guard took my swiss army and held it at guard station til done looking around, nice polite man too.
dan theman — Google review
Visited the State House on Saturday after visiting the Soda City Market a block away. The security guard was very friendly & courteous. We removed our personal belongings to be x-rayed & walked through the metal detector without issue. We did not take the free tour, but wandered around on our own. 3 floors & not all rooms are open. There’s a gift shop on exit. Make sure you walk around the grounds outside. Very nice state house.
Hung Do — Google review
By far South Carolina State Capital grounds were the prettiest we’ve seen out of 30+ Capitals that we’ve been to 🏢⛪️ 🌸🌼🌺🌷
N M — Google review
I live nearby to the State house itself. We generally go for walks there. The state house is a tourist attraction which show cases the African American history. It’s a must see place for everyone who visits Columbia, South Carolina.
They have great architecture and have statues of important personnel. Also, the place is well lit for Christmas.
It is Located in downtown Columbia, Visitors can take free guided and self-guided tours of the South Carolina State House. It is open Mon-Sat until 5pm
Sai Yaswanth — Google review
Exquisite architecture, paintings, history and workmanship at this state house. Beautiful grounds. Statues and monuments outside. Inside there is a very nice gift shop. You can take a guided tour or if you have watched the interesting and detailed video on the dot gov site, you will have gotten a good background on the state house, so that you can tour yourself with a sufficient understanding of the place.
V Mars — Google review
The South Carolina capitol was quite busy and festive. We had to wait our turn to take a photo with the huge Christmas tree. There were other festive displays that people were taking pictures with. There is a parking lot across the street that wasn't busy and offered metered parking.
Felicia Forletta — Google review
The grounds of the State House and the building itself are worth a visit. Both are impressive and filled with history, but we really like walking around the grounds. There is a scavenger hunt sheet and map on their website that can be downloaded, and it is filled with interesting facts about the monuments and gardens. There is a lot to see here. If you visit on the weekends, there are usually parking spaces on Sumter Street right next to the grounds available.
Beth McK — Google review
Had a good time at the State House on yesterday. Received a tour around some parts of the building. I will tell you to wear good shoes. I got my exercise in yesterday!! There are soo many stairs to climb. My legs are screaming today. Great experience if you get a chance to stop by.
Hope McGill — Google review
Absolutely amazing to see the architectural beauty this building has to offer. Off street parking and easy to walk around the property to explore the area. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Jennifer Rowlinson — Google review
The state house is open for the public. You can enter from the left side of the building just go through the security check. There is guided tour or you can just go around with the pamphlet. The three storey building is a magnificent piece of art. Kids were super excited to see the inside and got to take lots of pictures too. Definitely worth visiting if you are around the area.
Babita — Google review
Beautiful state house - arrived too late to get to see the inside on this trip although I’ve been in previously. Can spend a solid hour looking at the various monuments and beautiful landscaping surrounding the building. Kids loved running up and down the steps.
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.
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.
The Angel Oak is a venerable Southern live oak tree believed to be at least 400 years old that towers over its surroundings in Johns Island Park near Charleston, South Carolina. Visitors can get up close and take photos of the majestic tree with its wide canopy. The park protects the tree from nearby development and educates visitors about the tree's history and importance.
This may have been the most powerful spiritual experiences I've ever felt. Something about this tree just called to me. It drew me in beyond being in awe of its beauty. It felt like I had been there before a million times. It felt so familiar and I can't explain why. It drew me overcoming me with the feeling to put my hands on it. As I stood below it looking up through its many branches into the small amount of light above it. A wave of calm and peace washed over me and I couldn't help but to start crying never knowing why. It was a great way to end our South Carolina adventure and I can't wait to go back.
Tony Woodruff — Google review
Free attractions. Pretty popular. Pets are welcome but not appreciated to go past a certain spot. Informative signs about the tree. Down fall is all the other signs with rules and saying to not touch/sit etc, which is understandable but takes away from the natural beauty. Gift shop and bathrooms located at the tree. Road is rough getting back to tree, any car could make it, just a lot of pot holes so be careful and go slow. Enjoy and be respectful. Donations.
Blizzard 152 — Google review
What a beautiful experience to see the Angel Oak Tree! There were a ton of people there, so all your pics will have others in them unless you are there early, I assume. There was someone painting a pic of the tree, which was really interesting. The tree itself is magnificent! Truly majestic! Tiny parking lot, but ample parking on the road, where most everyone parks. Tiny gift shop with limited t-shirts and some pics of the tree and some other gifts as well. We didn't stay long, just long enough to take some pictures. However, this was absolutely, absolutely worth the trip!
Lynne L — Google review
Very cool place to see one of the live oaks. This tree is a grouping of three trees that grew together and somehow had last around 300 years. This is a high tourist area so parking will be tricky but it’s worth seeing it. You can see that many other trees have grown off of this old tree. It’s worth the drive.
Steven deSteuben — Google review
To see such an amazing site was awesome. 4 to 500 yrs old tree. Big shout out to the city of Charleston for protecting and preserving. We need to hold onto treasures Like these or all we'll have is pictures and memories
Steven J — Google review
I absolutely love trees and The Angel Tree did not disappoint!! It was awesome strikingly Beautiful, all the twist and turns of the 400 year old limbs. Oh..... the History it could tell❤️
Teresa Rogers — Google review
First time ever experiencing a tree this old and close where I was able to gently touch and take beautiful pictures. I would definitely recommend for you to come out and check it out, I’m from Miami and you don’t see nature like this out in the city life.
ELVIS ESPINOZA (Elvis Credit King) — Google review
Very quiet and relaxing place to visit. The tree is not just a tree, it’s an experience. The whole layout is amazing and it’s a must see. Plus it’s free. They have a gift shop but it’s all overpriced and the woman who was working there when I stopped, 12.2.12, was on her phone yelling at the person on the other end. Oh well. It didn’t take away from the experience.
Adam — Google review
Beautiful spot. The tree is massive and truly a site. It's very hard to get pictures without getting random people in them as well. With it being 400+yrs old it makes you wonder what kind of horror and beauty it's seen.
Ryan — Google review
Free attractions and absolutely beautiful to see in person! Pay attention to the rules and saying to not touch/sit under the tree or near, you will get in trouble, which is understandable but the rules are getting a bit outrageous and take away from being able to enjoy the tree.. I feel as if the rules are so strict they might as well not allow people to go near the tree but to just see it from the outside of the fence….
Ash — Google review
One of the finest natural beauty you’ll ever see in USA.
While visiting SC we had this place in our to go list and it was just amazing, the road taking you to this oak tree, the surroundings, the trees all are giving a awe of how powerful the nature can be.
We went there before it was supposed to be open as on Sunday it opens around 1 PM.
Even from outside the view was just breath taking.
It’s a short trip and you won’t spend more than 15-20 minutes.
It’s one of those trip moments which you’ll remember for a long time.
Asim Nabi — Google review
The Angel Oak Tree is a must-stop if you are visiting Charleston. This ancient tree is absolutely spectacular to look at. Take extra time and slowly walk around it. With every step, you will see a different perspective of this magnificent tree. Parking is a bit challenging, especially on busy days. And there is a small gift shop that you can walk through before you leave.
Chris Trethewey — Google review
As you walk up to it, you get a grasp of its age due to it's sheer size. It's 400 years old and just imagining the history this thing has lived through is amazing. They also have a little live oak sapling growing from an acorn they planted from it.
They have cordoned the trunk off due to people carving their names in it but you are able to touch and feel it. No sitting or hanging off it is allowed, and I'm all for it. It is a must see when visiting Johns Island.
No fee to see and they have a donation box set up if you're feeling generous.
Tom Mitchell — Google review
The tree itself is amazing.
But the rest of the site is pitiful.
So many signs and fencing which take away from the beauty and history.
Restrooms were disgusting. Don't skim over that part.. disgusting.
Unkept dirt road is sad and will leave your car in need of a bath.
The "gift shop" was staffed by an inattentive and uninterested woman. Rude short answers to questions in order to get back to her text session on her phone.
I am thankful that it's free, because aside from a beautiful old tree....the visit, location, and staff own lots of opportunities for improvement.
Sorry, not sorry.
Martin L. German — Google review
This place is special. If you are in Charleston and wondering what to see i would highly recommend taking the time to come here. It is free and during the week it is not too crowded. It is such a cool and majestic tree and they have done a great job preserving it.
kenneth webber — Google review
Very interesting spot to check out a really cool old tree! Word to the wise, you don’t have to do a u-turn when your ready to leave as there is an exit at both ends. The road is a bit rough and narrow so be patient and take your time. Pretty cool spot to get out and stretch your legs for a minute and get some cool pictures for the gram.
Chris Bruce — Google review
Free experience with available parking. Unfortunately, the atmosphere is very deterring. As soon as your enter, 5 red signs read DO NOT ENTER. There are several other signs that say WRONG WAY or NO ENTRY. It does not feel welcoming at all. A sign that simply says, Welcome, This Way would suffice. Not one picture could be taken without bright red, orange or yellow caution pieces being visible.
Renee Crawford — Google review
The Angel Oak Tree is a 400 year old oak tree. The oak tree has grown tall, wide, and sprawling. It is definitely a unique natural wonder in Charleston SC. While it may seem a little drive out of the way from downtown, you can look at beautiful scenery on the ride there. You can easily spend 30 minutes or more admiring it. If you love nature, trees, or the environment, then put the Angel Oak Tree on your Charleston list of things to see.
Fuller Insurance - Santa Rosa Bch — Google review
The staff were SO RUDE. Maybe were just leaving because of the staff and didn't want to take the time to stay. The play was covered in signs everywhere on what you can't do. The shop was covered in signs like "don't be on your phone when at counter ","don't complain to us, this place is free". The beautiful tree was buried in a pile of signs and rude employees. Here is a small collection of signs which is honestly 1% of them...
Daniel U — Google review
A definite must see. Unbelievably beautiful. We visited on a Sunday and waited for the park to open. Sadly, it has to be protected with a fence and a security guard. And even though there are signs everywhere, people were still sitting on the branches. Come on, people! Very little parking on a narrow dirt road.
Beth McK — Google review
A beautiful peaceful place. Gorgeous tree. It’s worth a quick stop. Free to enter. Dogs are allowed in certain areas near the tree but not up close to it. There are porta potty type bathrooms available
Jaime Kessler-Gengler — Google review
It's a big oak tree. Looks nice.
Lot of threatening signs around, there's a small gift shop too. No pictures due to registration of the images used on the magnets, prints, etc.
Old large branches held up by log posts. Seems precarious, but I guess that's why there's so many warning signs not to mess with the tree.
It's free to visit, parking is free too, just may take a while to find a spot. But it's a quick visit so spots open up quickly.
Peyton Hu — Google review
We got there about 4:45PM today and they called closing time about 3 minutes later. Be sure to research open/closing times. Parking was a nightmare and there were so many people there, even at the later time of day. It was still a quick and enjoyable visit, especially for my 14 year old who couldn’t believe the size of the tree.
Brandi W — Google review
This place is 30 min away from Charleston city center.
Less parking spots are available. You need to be a little patient.
Lovely to watch this tree from different angles look very artistic. Appreciate the preservation of this heritage.
A huge crowd was there to watch!
Divya Agrawal — Google review
We drove a couple of hours to see The Angle Oak. My mistake was not knowing if MLK day would effect it being opened or not, it was not. You could still see the tree from outside the fence. Yes there is a 10ft fence all the way around the grounds. It is a beautiful tree and it is worth visiting if you are in the area. It is a very old oak 300 to 400 years old.
Paul Moore — Google review
This is a free natural attraction that's worth every moment of your visit. The tree is considered the largest east of the Mississippi. It's a beautiful tree. You can park along the dirt road and enter for free. There's a small gift shop on the grounds, and the parking next to it is all handicapped accessible. Tripods are allowed as long as you're behind the yellow chain area - near the picnic tables and benches. You can walk everywhere around the tree but you can't step or climb on the tree.
Michael Barton — Google review
The viewing of this amazing miracle of God I’d breathtaking. So many people were talking group pictures and selfies.
I purchased at the small craft/country store some recommend Red Rice. There were simple souvenirs from local artists mixed with few Charleston and John’s Islands mugs and magnets. Very old fashioned feel. Service was nice and friendly.
Worth the trip to see and learn about this Majestic work of God.
Paulette — Google review
The Angel Tree is gorgeous. You should go see it if you are ever in Charleston. It is estimated to be 400 years old, so older than our country. It's not a fancy tourist stop. In fact, the road is rutted and difficult to traverse. There is no parking lot. The surrounding area looks aged and rustic. There is a small gift shop to purchase mementos. It is humbling to know the tree will likely be here long after we are gone from this earth.
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!
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!
Pam Cook — Google review
4.7
(377)
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4.5
(2355)
South Carolina 29920, USA
15
Old Sheldon Church Ruins
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
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 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
(1136)
•
5.0
(2815)
39 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
Coligny Beach Park is an oceanfront recreational area featuring well-maintained walking and biking paths, as well as amenities like Wi-Fi, swings, and the option to rent beach equipment. It is a popular destination for families as it is conveniently located near a playground and the Hilton Head Island Children's Museum. Locals also frequent Islanders Beach, where they can enjoy grilling facilities and picnic pavilions in addition to swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.
I love this beach park. The trees are so beautiful and the water was so clear. They have lots of pine trees and the bright green leave plants. I also love that parking was easy, at least when we went in December. They also have bathrooms and showers.
Atche Portillo — Google review
Free public access to the Atlantic Ocean in a Hilton Head Island, SC! Beautiful boardwalk bringing you into the heart of the park. Clean restrooms, rinse off area, changing rooms and lots of shaded seating stops. Wheel chair and scooter accessible mat also available. Beach with lifeguards is very clean with several umbrella chairs and prime seating for families enjoying the day at the beach. Would definitely return!
Elizabeth Kibby — Google review
Beautiful beach with all amenities like washrooms, foot wash, changing rooms, showers, parking.
Walk to the beach is a pathway with beautiful trees, you can take your carts along with beach chairs.
During the day beach was quite jammed but when I went in the morning around 7am it was much less crowded and looking more peaceful and beautiful then the day.
Water of the beach is very very salty so if you skin allergies take precautions.
You get Chairs along with umbrella shed on rent but I did not take it so don’t know the rent.
P.S- I would request to each of you reading the review not to leave your plastic cans/items near the beach( I saw many during the day visit). Also other request would be to minimize the use of plastic so that our oceans don’t get destroyed.
Arpita ABhatia — Google review
Wonderful beach! Very clean and well maintained. We loved the walk up to the beach. There is plenty of seating where you can just rest and admire the beauty of the park. Just a short ways from the main Coligny Beach Park entrance, there is tons of safe, free parking. People (tourists and locals) are very friendly and will guide you if you need help. We particularly loved the outdoor changing area because we visited the beach again on the day we had checked out of our hotel. We were able to let the kids get in the ocean and play in the sand, and then come and rinse off and change into dry clothes right at the park. This extended our trip and gave us another day to enjoy the beach as we still had a safe area to get dressed. The park is close to tons of restaurants and shops. Just leave your car in the free lot and go explore. It’s worth it!
Renita Taylor — Google review
I live in Atlanta and don’t mind driving here because it’s clean, family-friendly, has free parking, and it really is beautiful. I love this beach! Lovely place to spend the day with my family
Nurse Yana — Google review
This place is really nice. The beach is usually very clean and well maintained. Has a nice long wide mat that makes it easy to get through the soft sand. There are some nice shops and places to eat. All of which are within walking distance from the beach and where you park. Definitely recommend coming here. FYI It does get crazy busy during tourist season
John — Google review
Beautiful place, flat beach area, soft sand nice to walk in the area that close to the water, not crowded, there is clean station and toilets. Pretty nice and clean side walk. Ocean water is pretty cold right now. friendly wave all day long..
AnVe 2021 — Google review
Cool beach, gets busy during hot days for swimming.
Many people around so it's mostly safe.
Nice sunrises over the Atlantic and decent sunsets.
Oceans can be flat as pancake or have 4-5 foot choppers in the same day. High and low tides add about 20 yards to beach area.
Fun place to people watch
M Caff — Google review
This was our first time coming here. Making our way to Florida. This park is actually really nice & convenient! So many wash off showers, bathrooms are decent, swings to sit down and chill. The beach sand was so nice, there was some trash here and there. The waters are warm!! I've never felt the waters that warm before. I recommend this park though, it's a nice place to take the family.
Katie Kramer — Google review
FREE PARKING!
HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE right down to the ocean! There are mats lining the path that wheelchairs can roll on easily.
This place is stunning.
Very little shells on the beach. It's nice to see a city put so much into public access. Restrooms, showers, water faucets and more! The water was good and cold from the fountain which is a surprise.
The sunrise was pretty even if that one cloud blocked it a little.
Plenty of restaurants within walking distance too!
Ray Smith — Google review
A beautiful park with lovely bench swings on the walkway to the beach. We were there in December and the temps were in the mid 50s. It was warm on the swings and cooler on the beach, where it was windy. If you dress for the wind it is a beautiful walk along the beach and not very crowded this time.if year.
Hadassa 1 — Google review
A good beach access point for the public. It has all the necessary after beach clean up facilities. The restrooms were kept as clean as possible for a public restroom. There was good enough sanitations. The park had several shops and restaurants which were unfortunately all closed as I visited on Christmas day.
Abhish Abraham — Google review
Coligny Beach Park on Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for both solo travelers and families alike, the boardwalk leading to the expansive beach offers an intoxicating blend of natural beauty and modern convenience.
The crown jewels of this picturesque location are the enormous live oaks that shade the park's well-maintained boardwalk that transforms the park into a cool retreat even in the peak summer heat. They're not just functional – these age-old guardians of the island possess a rustic beauty that adds a unique charm to the landscape.
The park's splash pads are a real delight, particularly for children. A fine mist keeps visitors cool under the South Carolinian sun, adding an element of fun to the soothing serenity of the beach. The area is kept clean and is perfectly safe, making it an ideal spot for families to create lasting memories.
Adding to the park's tranquility are the numerous swings scattered throughout the park. There's nothing quite as relaxing as swinging gently under the protective canopy of the oaks, enjoying the soft sea breeze and the hypnotic rhythm of the nearby ocean waves.
Coligny Beach Park is a harmonious blend of leisure and nature.
Lisa Medford — Google review
Best beach to spend an afternoon with friends. Very clean beach. Found sand dollars and starfish. Life guards and helicopter kept eyes on water for any potential threat of sharks. Warnings were given and everyone had to get out of the water. It was about 30 minutes. Then the all clear was given. Clean bathrooms. Definitely my favorite beach!
Spedrock W — Google review
Beautiful beach, easy access and lovely rest area with water spigots to wash off your feet as well as showers to rinse off completely. Could use more parking but there isn't anywhere to add it - plus, it's walkable from many of the condos nearby. The sand was perfect and waterntemp was cold but bearable for an October sunrise.
Patricia Batchelor — Google review
Love the fact if you are in a wheelchair you can go and see the beach with no problem. Also if you have a hard time walking in the sand they have a cover over the sand in which makes it easier to get there. The cover doesn't get hot either.
MeLinda R — Google review
Out of all my visits to this magnificent island, I never once had been to this beach access in Coligny Plaza, as I always have beach access inside Sea Pines, so I decided to try something new. What sort of local guide would I be if I didn't?
As far as the actual beachline goes, it's a beach, so everything there was what I expected it to be, but as far as the entrance, it was well-maintained and there were enough restrooms around! The beach itself also extends quite largely, so there's plenty of room for everyone!
beastlycharizard13 — Google review
Looks like a well maintained area, clean with restrooms, showers, swings, and short easy walk to the beach. parking upfront was easy to find as we went during winter. Parking was free. We didn't stay for very long but enjoyed the area quite a lot..there is shopping nearly and restaurants too. We saw lot of people with dogs too.
Sanjeeta Pai — Google review
Great beach with a lot of space to set up chairs, blankets or whatever. A lot of walkable or bikeable stores and restaurants close by. Stations to wash off feet, showers and bathrooms. There is a wheelchair accessible mat at the entrance that brings you to the beach as well as beach wheelchairs you can borrow for free.
Hannah Montroy — Google review
Coligny Beach is a high quality spot with nice facilities, including restrooms and changing cabanas. It’s a great walking beach, especially at sunrise. You can rent chairs and umbrellas ‘in season’. There is plenty of parking nearby.
Keith Moore — Google review
The first time I had been there and it was very clean. It had a lot of added family touches. Share toys and clean up area for the beach. The changing rooms and the restrooms were very clean. I loved the porch swings as well.
Dustie Brown — Google review
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1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
Tybee Island is a small city and barrier island situated near Savannah in Georgia. It is famous for its extensive sandy beaches, including South Beach with its pier and pavilion. The northern part of the island houses Fort Screven, which boasts 19th-century concrete gun batteries and the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. The light station has been rebuilt several times over the years, while the museum located in Battery Garland focuses on local history.
Fort Pulaski National Monument is a significant landmark from the Civil War era that offers ranger-led tours, musket and cannon firing displays, and scenic hiking and biking trails along the riverfront. The fort was built in 1829 and played a prominent role during the war, enduring a 30-hour siege under Robert E. Lee's command by Union forces. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as Tybee Island Lighthouse or embark on a dolphin tour for more leisurely sightseeing.
This is an incredible fort with a ton to see. It helps if you have a national park pass as they do charge admission here. Once there go to the visitors center and you can see the great exhibits and get some advice from the rangers before heading out. The fort is a great place to explore with different exhibits throughout. After that you can take other trails around the grounds all of which are wonderful. Great place for everyone.
Maxwell Lent — Google review
I go to a lot of these old forts and this one was AWESOME! Starting off, the young lady at the little booth at the entrance was polite, efficient, and cheerful. The parking lot is paved, well laid out, and as close to the fort and visitor's center as could be expected. The restrooms were clean and included a water fountain with a bottle filling feature. They also had bowls nearby for dogs. The visitor's center was small but informative. The moat around the fort was well kept. The water was clear enough to see lots of fish swimming around. The fort itself was also well kept. Both levels had things to see and there were boards posted all over the place giving information about the construction of the fort, uses of various rooms/ areas, historical information as to people who lived and worked there and nearby as well as events that happened there. I love the old brickwork and the arches. There are also some trails on the premises. One leads to an observation point near an old lighthouse. You can't get to it though. Unless you really like lighthouses I wouldn't recommend the 1+ mile(?) walk out there.
Don Doty — Google review
What an impressive structure with defensive engineering well displayed. We have been to a few old forts up the coast and this one is in amazing shape. Plenty of placards and labels explaining each room and each location of the fort. An excellent way to walk off lunch and gather some knowledge about our history. ✌️😎
Aaron Bonewitz — Google review
Fort Pulaski is a great National Monument just outside Savannah. It's deserves half a day of attention and exploration. Try timing your visit to a ranger talk to really appreciate the history and engineering of the fort. The inside of the fort is very open. You're able to explore almost every room including the upper ramparts. Outside the fort is a restroom, visitors center, but the gift shop is inside the fort. There are a few trails outside around the fort near the water front that give the park a little added variety. Spend some time here as it's worth your driving!
Michael Barton — Google review
This is a National Park that I think is worth the visit. There is a lot of colonial and antebellum history in this structure and visitors should really plan for 2 - 3 hours to fully see all the rooms and areas in the fort. It’s a very unique structure with a moat, drawbridge and several underground tunnels and walkways. There are park rangers on site to answer questions and the facility provides a self-guided tour throughout all the rooms. With plenty of displays and placards to read, this is a neat stop and well worth the price of admission.
Jim McNab — Google review
This was an amazing experience a must do for history buffs and tourists. Love the costumes they encourage you to dress up in and do photos. Grandson wanted to be a proper lady and a union soldier. Very fun. The mote and tunnels and the cannons, all of it I loved! Even saw a alligator...can you find it in my photos?
Jherie LaCorte — Google review
Fun for families (but hold on to your toddler’s hand tight if you venture to see the overlooks - no railing). So much history to be learned here! The gift shop is cute and has some refreshing beverages if you visit on a hot day like I did. Be prepared to walk around for at least an hour to really see it all!
Angela Highsmith — Google review
What a great site to see. Administered by the National Park Service, it offers a unique history experience similar to national parks but much more accessible for a quick day trip. The history presented and the historic preservation visible is quite amazing. The NPS does a great job. Parking was easy, facilities were good, displays well maintained and it was just fun to explore the fort and island. If I had had more time, I would have walked on some of the trails especially to get a closer view of the adjacent lighthouse. My husband and kids even had fun here! Definitely plan a visit!
Annie Dowling — Google review
Tons of history here for this National Monument. It costs but if you have any interest in America history, you'll enjoy this place. Try to catch a ranger talk and if you like hiking, there are some neat trails here, too.
Michael Kustermann — Google review
Very cool place. Kinda pricey admission if you don't have a NPS pass, but it's how these places are able to survive, and ultimately it's worth the price. Beautiful grounds and a very well preserved structure, lots of park staff/rangers available for questions etc. Gorgeous views!
R Snyder — Google review
We were able to get a great deal on our admission price. My mother, who is a senior, bought a National Park Pass for $20, which allows 4 adults to come with her for no additional cost. So, we paid $20 for 5 adults to enter, instead of the $10 each, which would have set us back $50.
The fort itself is an incredible opportunity to see an important part of America's history. Be very careful as there is no railing on the top level of the fort. It is a straight drop down, so it probably wouldn't be good for people who have a problem with heights. We really enjoyed our time here and snagged a magnet in the gift shop on the way out.
Be aware also that the only bathroom is by the round brick building as you first come in that serves as their Visitor Center.
Suomirakastaa — Google review
This National Monument had a bit for all to enjoy. A 15min movie gave a great history lesson. We caught the ranger led tour that was informative and guided us through different areas of the fort. The views can be taken in at all angles. Once you’re done exploring the fort take a stroll down to the Cockspur lighthouse. The trial is flat and very easy to navigate.
Kelly Champion-Smith — Google review
We weren't sure what to expected and made a last minute decision to go to Fort Pulaski and it was great. There is great signage for individuals to go at their own pace and see what is available and so much history to try to soak up. The displays and exhibits were tasteful and not overly done. The amount of guns that the fort had was amazing and after walking through I had a much better idea of how the fort worked and some of the issues that had to be dealt with on a regular basis. The employees and volunteers were helpful and happy. We spent about two hours here in the morning and had enough time to drive back to town by noon for the 1pm Riverboat Cruise.
If you aren't sure which fort to visit, I recommend Fort Pulaski. It big, has something for everyone, and was am active location that was surprisingly beat by the Union Army.
Kirsten Barnes — Google review
What an amazing walk through history. Everything is very well kept and tidy. It is magnificent to be able to admire each of the rooms, the hospital, the church, the prison, the kitchens and of course the cannons. Everything about the history of this fort is very well explained on each educational poster. On a day as hot as today, we have found a cool breeze entering between the corridors through the guard windows. There is a trail, a gift shop, very clean restrooms, a small museum, and very friendly staff. Definitely a must visit if you are in this area.
Mariangeles Doctor — Google review
This particular historical site is well preserved and much larger than I thought it would be. And all of the park rangers were a wealth of information. You can easily spend several hours walking the site and reading historical markers.
Walking the magazines, grounds, cannon emplacements of different size, and upper walls is a must.
Veterans have proof of veteran status on your person. This can be ID card, driver's license with veteran status indicated and possibly VA card for park access. Speak with the park rangers about the veterans park access benefits.
Enjoy the site!
Seth Schwartz — Google review
It was so hot and we had our fluffy shih tau with us so we didn't hike the trails. The grounds were nicely mowed and info signs were very interesting. Pets not allowed inside visitor center, FYI. We just took turns. the water bowls provided we're thoughtful. We enjoyed what we saw!
Robin Schmitz — Google review
We had a blast at this place. I was about 3 months pregnant with my daughter then My kids and I went. We loved it. They had so much fun learning about the War and how people lived before them. They also loved the walk out to the small beach they have. We enjoyed seeing where the ships used to come in to drop off goods. I definitely recommend this place. BIG PLUS!! IF YOU ARE A SERVICE MEMBER YOU AND YOUR FAMILY GET IN FOR FREE! (We were there in 2018-2019)
Tierani Wilkinson — Google review
Admission is $10 per person and provides access to the walking trails around the fort in addition to the fort proper. If you want to walk out to see Georgia’s smallest lighthouse, you’ll need to access it from
Fort Pulaski National Monument.
The fort itself is interesting and explains the architecture, structure, and history. There is a recently (2012) erected marker commemorating Confederate soldiers which is the first thing you see when entering the parking lot…
The walk to Cockspur Island Lighthouse’s viewing path is labeled and requires walking behind the fort and then down a dirt path. It’s about 1.5 miles round trip. We saw lots of freighters on our walk.
The gift shop is inside the fort itself, not the visitor center. It’s really well curated, and it has a better, higher quality selection of items than most other NPS stores I’ve visited.
Jordan Freeman — Google review
Came here while on a road trip in the area. We stopped at a few forts, and this one was my favorite. I think it's so cool that there's a moat and a drawbridge that needs to be lowered like one in a castle. It felt like I was in a movie, I loved that! And it's really cool that some of the history here ties in with one of the forts we went to in South Carolina. There's a bunch of cool walking trails too, so there's a lot more to see besides the fort.
Zachary Frieben — Google review
Bit of a line to get in at 9AM but the fort only had a couple of visitors by the time I made it in. Rangers and staff were friendly and helpful. Great views from the top of the fort and interesting history inside of it. Can't wait to go back and visit the lighthouse.
Craig Woodruff — Google review
Really cool Fort to walk around up and downstairs. Various tunnels, rooms, cannons, history. Takes a couple hours to explore casually. There is also a 1.7 mi trail on the outside to go closer to the Cockspur lighthouse. Didn't get to do that trail this trip though.
Lindy W — Google review
Very worthwhile visit. We spent 5 hours there, and still didn't see everything! I definitely recommend bringing water, binoculars, wearing good walking shoes and of course sunscreen and/or a hat. It was busy but not crowded on a weekday. I liked that the admission gives you the ability to come and go for multiple days. We'll probably go back before we leave the area and see the couple of things we missed. The kids were very engaged with the Junior Ranger book. I was pleasantly surprised at how much it helped all of us learn and interact.
The visitor center and fort are accessible. The fort floor is uneven. There are picnic areas by the entrance and by the visitor center. Restrooms are only by the visitor center, so definitely plan ahead if you're going to do the trails.
There are some recorded cannon sounds in the visitor center, and the fort echoes. But it wasn't loud or bothersome for our noise sensitive kids.
I did see several dogs there, and a water bowl outside of the gift store. Again, plan ahead because the dogs are not allowed in the
Angela Shiring — Google review
Very beautiful place to visit. The fort itself is one of the best preserved from that time period and the walk around the grounds was great, especially if the weather is gorgeous.
Dennis Frye — Google review
Great place. Love the fact that they restored some of the cannons instead of just letting them be while they left areas of the fort structure look natural. Good contrast. They have many story boards around the fort explaining different areas.
National Park pass works here.
The picturesque River Street in downtown Savannah, Georgia is famous for its quaint shops, cafes, and bars. The street runs along the banks of the Savannah River and is a popular spot to eat and relax.
Beautiful area to explore in Savannah
Sharon Hughes — Google review
Love e river side. A lot of things to do around. Restaurants, shops, bars, creamery stores…. Don’t miss it 💖
Ingrid Baez — Google review
Lots of stuff activity going on over here.
Thadd F. — Google review
Spooky place at night. Cobblestone makes for tricky walking so be careful. Leave the heels at home boys and girls. Put on a good pair of boots or sneakers. I promise you'll turn an ankle and/or end up barefoot otherwise. Lots of neat old haunted places through this section of Savannah. Must see at night in my opinion. Stay alert though. It's not terribly dangerous but you can easily find yourself trapped if you take the wrong stairs or wander too far by yourself. You can take your car on River St but I wouldn't do it . In fact avoid your car altogether in Savannah if possible. The city itself is razy confusing. And historically speaking I can only imagine the horror River street had experienced for hundreds of years present day for the most part excluded. If those bricks could talk I don't think I could bare to hear their voice. Chilling to think that you actually might just hear River St talking to you if you're walking along at night. In fact I was certain River Street was speaking but then I realized that it was a homeless guy and he was talking to nobody about "needing his damn sunglasses" . So maybe River Street and this man were having a conversation. Not sure, I did not try to join the back and forth. So keep your heads up at night somehow while also looking at your feet so you don't fall and look like an a$$.
MK Regrah — Google review
Well kept historic street full of shops, bars, eclectic restaurants all following the river. Bonus:.lots of friendly cops everywhere. You'll feel safe
Jeffrey M — Google review
Cool place to see with restaurants and a variety of shops and things to see
Jason Semrau — Google review
Lovely place, kid and dog friendly.. cute little boutique shops. A nice view of the river and you get to read about some of our war heroes.
Irene Jayma — Google review
Iconic strip with shops and food scene. Pralines and seafood are something you have to try. Nice get away for a weekend trip.
Yi G — Google review
Nice place to walk along the river
Lots of restaurants and shops
Jose Rodriguez — Google review
Was difficult to find and using Google maps wasn't completely helpful. But what a cool area!!! I didn't realize shops were on both sides at first. Was a little tough getting down the stairs so on the way back up we found a set a little less steep. Having a directory would have been helpful. That way we could have seen what was down there, where bathrooms are, etc.
Wish we had more time.
This is along the river, across from the convention center but on outside of downtown historic area. It's pretty, lots of little shops (loved the candy store, five and dime, and marketplace). 5 and Dime has restrooms. There is a pub type place down there, too. Just a cute area, separate from the stores,.restaurants, etc. In downtown. Cobblestone and treed, very historical looking.
K Rod — Google review
Parking $1.50 per 30 mins. Beautiful view of the river, all kinds of bars, restaurants, gift shops with t-shirts, magnets, etc. Couple pan handlers out there.
Rebecca Smith — Google review
A fun street to walk and shop on, or just enjoy looking at the river.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a neo-gothic Catholic church with elaborate stained glass windows, and music recitals are often held there. It was almost entirely destroyed by a fire in 1898, but was rebuilt the next year and restored to its former glory.
In the heart of Savannah's historic neighborhood, a really well historic church. Some of the stained glass windows are quite lovely. Beautifully constructed church. The church is well-maintained and has a large seating capacity. In Savannah, there is a spot you should go. This church is both cold and peaceful, making it ideal for prayer. It's free to walk in with a suggested donation of $3. The photographs do not do it justice, and the rush of emotion I felt as I went in was unrivaled.
nitish deshpande — Google review
Stunning architecture in the middle of Historic Savannah. Well-kept grounds and interior pristine. One of the beautiful places to visit that should be added to your list.
M — Google review
The guard at the entrance made me feel right at home; he's such a friendly person. Stepping inside feels like entering another dimension, with so much to explore and observe. It's history at its finest, and the architecture is truly breathtaking.
Janet Negron — Google review
It was hard to capture how beautiful this church is. We just don't have historical places like this on the West Coast, so I was in awe. I grew up Catholic, so it brought back comforting memories. I lit a candle and sat in the wood pew to take in the sights, smells, and the beautiful colors of the stained glass with the sun shining through them. I love how they allow the public to come into the church to look around during times when they aren't having mass.
Tammy Schur — Google review
Historical cathedral with a beautiful stained glass windows and expansive alter. It’s a suggested $3 donation to go in. They offered a free tour where the presenter explained the cathedral’s history and pointed out some interesting features. It took about 20 minutes overall and was very informative. It is an active church so do be mindful about people praying. I would recommend coming here for a first-timer to Savannah and spending half an hour!
Shanelle S — Google review
If you've never experienced such an amazing and heavenly place, then you should come here. It is amazing, and the artwork was breathtaking! Even if you are not Catholic, it is wonderful, and it is totally free they only ask for donations. Also, they still have services there as well! I loved this place, and so did my grandkids they were amazed at the grandeur of the church. Now, you might not want to bring kids who are a bit loud, for it needs to be quiet. It's still a church, after all. But really and truly amazing.
Tenita Wilkins — Google review
This Cathedral is Massive and absolutely STUNNING!! 100% worth the stop! They have visiting hours so that you can actually go inside and tour the area and take photos of all of the beautiful stained glass. Beware though: there is no public restroom.
Honor Warren — Google review
There are no words good enough to describe this experience... a must see to know!! The outside is spectacular, but the inside is miraculous! Your mere presence is altered by the surroundings as you sit in reverence!!!
Michael Venning — Google review
Came here on St Patrick's Day. It is one of the biggest churches is Savannah. The church architecture is so beautiful.
The vibe is peaceful and calming. You'll keep admiring the beautiful glass windows and sculptures here.
Please be respectful while taking photos though.
Bhushan — Google review
This Cathedral is stunning. I was here for Mass on Mother's Day, and I was in awe of everything, the liturgy, the music, the atmosphere. The church was decorated with I don't even know how many dozens of roses, giant roses. The choir sounded celestial. The bishop celebrated the Mass - and delivered a wonderful homily. The windows are stunning, especially the Ascension and Immaculate Conception windows. I am a little perplexed by the lack of wounds visible on Christ's hands, but a gorgeous image. As usual, so many details. I especially liked the "Communion of Saints" images around the ceiling.
Nicholas Petrillo — Google review
Beautiful place. Hard to imagine the hours of work in all of the intricate details throughout. Soaring ceilings, beautiful stained glass and extremely detailed carvings throughout. If there is a red sign out front that says worship in process - not the time to go. Usually between 12:30 - 4:30 on weekdays is ideal to visit.
James Burnham Coldwell Banker Prime Properties — Google review
The cathedral was beautiful! We were there about 20 to 30 min before a service and there was a lady in the back of the church yelling at anyone that wanted to take pictures. I absolutely get it and was respectful and didn't make a peep. Apparently, the cut off walking around the church and taking pictures 30 min before services.... so plan accordingly! I was able to snap a few when she was yelling at others.🙂 It's absolutely worth the trip to see!
Lynne L — Google review
OH MY GOODNESS! This is GORGEOUS! No matter your beliefs, you should check out this BEAUTIFUL cathedral! The architecture is breathtaking and well, just go see for yourself. 💕
I remember thinking it's donation only.
Jessi — Google review
Absolutely Breathtaking.
Eye candy for the soul.
No matter what religion you are, the beauty inside is undeniable, the energy is peaceful and employees are knowledgeable and willing to share.
Definitely take the opportunity to venture inside if they have the doors open.
I've been there 3 times to view and appreciate the outside, but this time was the first time I was able to enter.
It was worth every moment spent there.
It is free, but there is a sign asking for donations.
Laura Lockhart — Google review
The church was beautiful. They asked for a donation but it was not required. To light a candle for a prayer that you had a donation request. I give it a 4 only because in my opinion there is historical importance to the building and some information would have been helpful. Not sure any takes note but the would on Jesus switches sides from one window to the next. Guessing those windows are expensive! It’s all. About the details! Lol
Brian Lee — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous and free although they do take donations. Friendly staff. We went at Christmas and there was a gigantic very detailed nativity scene which was very impressive. I bought a Christmas ornament there with many choices of the stained glass pieces in the church. The organ was specifically made for this church and is a sight to see. Check times before you go because they do shut it down during services.
Kate Martin — Google review
A must see if you’re in this town, a true piece of history. This Cathedral is absolutely massive in size and so beautiful. The stained glass is gorgeous and so detailed. The wood work is stunning with an insane organ. A very unique place to visit.
Aaron Bonewitz — Google review
We always visit this breathtaking cathedral when visiting Savannah. Make it a must-see when you are there! The history and beauty are worth the visit.
Lana Williams — Google review
Always beautiful but extra special at Christmas. The Nativity is impressive! The stained glass, steeples and wood carvings are hypnotizing. Just gorgeous! A must see when visiting Savannah.
Jessica — Google review
Beautiful, beautiful church! I felt like I stepped into a church in Europe! One of the prettiest sights in Savannah!
Atasha Jordan — Google review
Beautiful cathedral that has endured for such a long time. Went to their Christmas service that was very packed . As huge as it was, people still had to stand in the back. I come to this place almost every year to just enjoy the decorations and ceremony. A must see for anyone .
The Savannah Historic District is an area of the city of Savannah that was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966. It is one of the largest urban historic districts in the United States, and it contains a wide variety of architecture from the 18th century through to the early 20th century.
We had some time to check out this historic district in Savannah while staying near bye for a conference. The homes here are historic and the architecture is very nice. My favourite part of this historic district was Forsyth Park and the fountain there as well as the Spanish moss trees all over. The park is a nice place to walk around as well as the area as we walked everywhere.
After seeing the homes and Forsyth Park we enjoyed River Street where there’s lots of restaurants and bars to enjoy something to eat and walk along the river where there were vendors selling things. I would definitely come back if ever in the Savannah, Hilton head area again
Donald hood — Google review
I visited the Savannah Historic District last summer and had a wonderful time! It is such a beautiful area with a plethora of options for food, shopping, and entertainment. Many of the roads or paths I encountered were brick or cobblestone, which are beautiful but can pose issue to those who use wheelchairs or a blind person using a cane. Overall though, the brick walkways were very well kept and didn't seem to pose much of a risk at the time of my visit and there was not a lot of cobblestone. The main roads are paved. There is an area by the riverfront that utilizes a fair amount of stairs spread out, so if someone is in a wheelchair there will need to be a bit of a re-route to get to that specific area of the riverfront. It is a very lively and fun area with a lot of music and lights which is very fun, but if you are someone who struggles with sound sensitivity I would suggest bringing earplugs or your choice of aid to help damped that. Overall, a beautiful, must see area in my opinion, and has few inaccessible areas from my point of view in my visit.
Cada Schmidt — Google review
My favorite place to escape on a long weekend. River Street is vibrant and full of arts, music, tons of little shops and bars/restaurants. The Squares in downtown Savannah are beautiful, historic and so green. If you've never been, I recommend a trolley tour to see the highlights. Then go on foot and find the little treasures of shops, art, food and entertainment.
Misty Lane — Google review
Did trolley tours with two different tour companies; two different days (Thursday and Monday) and experienced many different guides and saw wonderful landmarks. If your a tourist visiting Savanah historic district I highly recommend using a trolley tour. There is so much to see and hear about.
Jherie LaCorte — Google review
What a beautiful city steeped with so much history. We took a 90 minute tour with Old Savannah tours (our tour guide was Hampton- he was fantastic). This is a place we definitely need to come back and spend some time in but if you've got 90 minutes to spare, you should make the detour!
Tanya Hutton — Google review
I'm a huge history buff. The wealth of information and history here was worth the visit alone. Everyone must go to Savannah at least once in a lifetime.
Stephanie Wesson — Google review
Good experience to ride the trolley down town and take the tour around the historic area. We also stopped for food at Spankys on the river. It was a great experience and the gift shops were reasonably priced
Danyetta Butler — Google review
We had a great time visiting the historic district. Many beautiful ancient buildings (build in 19th century) with great architecture, good parks, famous restaurants, beautiful tree tunnel, good river walk, museums, greenery and finally Church with beautiful architecture are the specialities of historic district. If you are visiting for one day, we recommend using old Town trolley tours of Savannah. Based on our experience this trolley service runs at good frequency and have hope off and on facility at major tourist attractions. For an extensive tour, a 2 day visit is needed for covering all the places. If you are coming by car, one major problem will be parking availability.
Siju Kurian John — Google review
Great place to spend a beautiful day walking and taking photos.
With dozens of shops and restaurants to keep anyone entertained. Lot
To do lot to see.
Frank Iverson — Google review
Savannah has a great town with lots of interesting history. We enjoy walking around for a couple hours seeing all the amazing homes and parks/plazas.
Tim Salmonson — Google review
First time visitor. Two days is not enough to experience all the district has to offer. Lots of. Museums and Art Galleries. The history and architecture is amazing. Take the trolley to get an idea of where you want to spend more time. The trolley operators can be fun and entertaining.
Alex Buchanan — Google review
Savannah's spirit is delightful. In each square and around every corner there is a unique experience. Take a quick glance at the city plan then just walk and explore N-S along Bull street and E-W on River Street, Broughton, Oglethorpe, .... all the way to Forsyth Park. The city is dotted with attractions ranging from historic jems to contemporary art galleries and inspiring architectural renovations. Savannah offers a first class experiences in all seasons, no need to wait for popular events or festivities. Just stop by for a day or a few and enjoy hospitality in this energetic southern bell.
E Afifi — Google review
Walk the River than take the Old Town Trolly tour ride around once than hop off & on at any stop our tour guide Sam was great! We Ubered to waterfront cheaper than trying to park. If planning and you want to stay waterfront book in advance.
Karen Meehan — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous. Great walking city. Just watch where you walk cobblestones will trip ya!
Brittney Pickering — Google review
Went for a girl's trip & stayed at the Marshall House! It is Gorgeous! We also went on a tour where we learned about the history of this beautiful area & how everything came about! The driver & his crew were very nice & knowledgeable! They made the tour exciting!! In conclusion, I recommend seeing this Beautiful part of GA. Too amazingly gorgeous to miss.
Mandy “Barts Wife” Burroughs — Google review
Such a fun place to explore! Cute squares of greenery and churches and historic houses. We spent a day here and thoroughly enjoyed.
Limia Mohamed Hamza — Google review
Visited savannah for the first time. Two days are not enough to explore the place. It has got a lot of options and it’s really well developed ❤️
Savannah is known for its real life greenery and ghosts but I didn’t found any so far 😂
Love the place
Small sweet and live
Heema Patel — Google review
This was my first visit to historic Savannah. I only stayed two days, but I had a good time. I used a company called Kelly Tours to get an overview of Savannah. They take everyone through a 90-minute tour first. We had an excellent guide. Then you pick where you want to next. For example, you could call and say I'm at stop 9, I would like to go to stop 5. I called them three times. Each time, it took less than 5 minutes for them to get to me. Some stops were about a 10 minute walk, the weather was nice so I walked some. I feel like I saved so much time, and I saw everything that I wanted to see. I didn't get a lot of good pictures because there are lots of trees and greenspace.
Beverly (Beverly) — Google review
Most site seeing places are entry free, on the river Bank side there was a fireworks 🎆 display for good 20-25 minutes ard 10pm it gets included under Destination fees with ur hotel booking.
Navzy Pal — Google review
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5.0
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301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
Forsyth Park is a 30-acre urban public park in Savannah's historic district and is internationally known for its Forsyth Fountain. The park also includes an outdoor theater, cafe, children's playgrounds, tennis courts, soccer fields, and a Confederate memorial.
This park is the home to the most photographed fountain in Savannah.
This is a large park with a sense of peace and deep history.
The sidewalk circles the outer edge of the park and then cuts through towards the fountain.
Lots of people from all.walks of life visits here and simply hang out just to enjoy the energy it emits.
Definitely worth the visit.
Laura Lockhart — Google review
The park was beautiful and a lovely stroll down the center under the canopy of trees.
Playgrounds were available, tennis courts, plenty of grass to place a blanket and relax.
On our Sunday afternoon there were many homeless and at one end of the park they were having an event offering food and water for the homeless. It got a bit rowdy by a few attendees. A bit of yelling, pushing, throwing of water bottles. But the rest of our visit was pleasant.
We walked down the center as well as on the outside parameters to enjoy the architect of the older homes.
Be smart and be aware of your surrounding while visiting.
Rita Clark — Google review
Loved this park! Easy to walk through and had so many cool things to look at! People were friendly and the architecture was just amazing! If you think you don't have time, you do! It really does not take long to walk through, we walked it before we were able to check in to our hotel, maybe 30 min tops! And we saw a lot in that time frame!
Jenika Turnquist — Google review
Such a beautiful park. Complete with its historic fountain and huge open green fields we didn't want to leave. It's a must stop for anyone who takes a trip to the shining jewel of the south, Savannah GA.
John White — Google review
An absolutely beautiful park to visit, relax, exercise, or whatever you decide to do at that time. Trees are spectacular in their beauty, with lovely old homes surrounding the perimeter. There’s even a restaurant (Collins Quarter) available for eating or an outside coffee/drink window to order beverages. Definitely a “must visit” place while in Savannah.
Sherri R. — Google review
Took my son to play on the playground on a Thursday. There are two playgrounds I found out. Some of the equipment is metal so be careful with the sun heating it up during the day. The equipment was in good shape. There are benches to sit at at the playgrounds. We enjoyed walking to the fountain. It was cool to see some local artists selling their artwork or jewelry along the paths. The restrooms are by the restaurant and it was clean when I used it. There is a fun little hidey garden near the smaller playground with roses and benches. The flowers were in bloom and so beautiful. We did get a parking spot by the tennis courts which is free.
Melody Owen — Google review
It is a beautiful historic park in the city's historic district. I love how the town maintains its beauty, especially its well-kept boardwalks and the water fountain in the park's center, which exudes classic elegance. This is an excellent place for locals and tourists to walk, jog, or relax.
Patrick Min — Google review
Great park in Savannah. We got there in the morning and it was fairly crowded. Has historical statues. Has a lovely fountain. Has public restrooms and a restaurant and Leopold's ice cream parlor. The one at Broughton st usually has a long queue, so this might be a better option for you if you don't want to wait that long. People were enjoying themselves in the park and it was well maintained. I had a good time!!!
Deepak KC — Google review
Great park in Savannah. I frequent visit this park due to it’s attraction. This time I visited in the late morning time and found very less people so feel comfortable to have family photograph.
Don’t forget to buy painting or handmade ornaments (as a memory of park visit) sold by street vendors. You are supporting locals by buying some products .
Park is clean and have public restroom. If you are with kids, they can enjoy in kids zone too
Lila Baniya — Google review
Park was absolutely beautiful! An early morning stroll was magical on this beautiful morning. The park was very clean and I loved looking at the fountain and reading all the statue plaques. I love history and this park is full of it. Statues prompted me to immediately go to google and find out more about the people they were erected for. Early morning is great because not a lot of tourists. Most were runners and walkers which lest the fountain wide open for pictures.
Kelly Dale — Google review
This is the one place I wanted to visit on my trip to Savannah and it did not disappoint. Beautiful park! Amazing fountain! It is set up perfectly from the minute you set foot in the park to see the fountain. Trees offer shade everywhere (good thing because we went in July and it was 98), benches for resting were too. It even has a snack bar/restaurant with outdoor seating. I’m not sure if there was indoor since we did not go inside and I have to say the cleanest public park restrooms I have ever seen in my life anywhere….seriously. A park is never complete without playground for kids which it has. It made me wish my Granddaughters were with us, they would of LOVED it! Great place to see, do not skip it and do not forget to take your picture in front of the fountain.
Ina “Michelle” Shaffer — Google review
Had a wonderful morning stroll at Forsyth Park in Savannah, GA. Despite the recent storm, the park remained Lovely! Appreciated the dedicated crew diligently cleaning the sidewalks, enhancing the overall experience. A refreshing and enjoyable outing in January!
Rhonda Fox — Google review
This park is located near downtown Savannah and has very open dog-friendly spaces and fields. Some old monuments are scattered around, which makes for a great Sunday stroll.
We highly recommend checking out the nearby restaurant CQ for a lovely brunch and coffee. (They also have a to-go window that you can walk up to!)
Christopher Estep — Google review
Beautiful Park. I Felt safe there. I didn't see 1 police officer there unfortunately. The take out window staff at the park cafe where not so helpful or friendly. That didn't affect the park overall but next time I will take my money some place else.
Donald Adams — Google review
Park with an area of 10 Acres. Beautiful and well maintained. This park has a beautiful fountain. We enjoyed our time here. There are many vendors selling paintings, souvenirs etc. This park has children's play area. This park has many seats to sit and relax. The park was crowded during our visit as it was saint Patrick's weekend.A must place to visit in Savannah for a cool atmosphere.
Siju Kurian John — Google review
Stunning park that is safe and always well kept. The Farmers Market on Saturdays is great, has tons of food and fresh produce. There are always fun events in the park and Collins Quarter has done a great job with the concessions area. Great to just walk around, it's huge and you'll always find something new. Great to sunbathe and relax as well. The botanical garden is a hidden gem. 2 playgrounds for the kids and at least 2 football fields worth of open grass for sports or exercise. Beautiful full trees provide shade and ombiance.
Nicole Graziani — Google review
This is an amazing park!. It has so much history and the water fountain is phenomenal to watch and enjoy the view. Nice place to come and sit and read a book or have a picnic with your love one's.
Jefe YO Soy — Google review
Very well-maintained beautiful park. Good place for a get-together. Play area and Splash pad are available for kids. I think it's difficult to get a car parking on weekends. The restroom is very clean, but there was a big queue in the ladies rest room.
Vasantharajan Thangaraj — Google review
This has to be one of the most beautiful, peaceful and idyllic places in all of Savannah. The park has lush grass and beautiful walkways lined with ancient trees that are dripping in Spanish moss. Different artists were stationed on one path selling sundries and at the end of the path was a gorgeous fountain. There is a small botanical garden in the park and surrounding the area were rows of gorgeous homes with tall ceilings and wrought iron, long shutters and inviting porches that remind you of the South.
Tiffani Patterson — Google review
Beautiful, serene park. Enjoyed our visit. It is dog friendly. Must see if visiting for the first time. I recommend walking through the park at dusk or early evening. We enjoyed viewing the holiday decorations and historic homes.
J Joyner — Google review
Beautiful park and trees. Public bathrooms. Two playgrounds. Lots of grassy area for sitting and playing. There is a restaurant on site that we did not use. The fountain is gorgeous.
Cindy Minor — Google review
Beautiful! This is a great park with lots of history. It’s a nice place to take your dog for a walk or go on a picnic. It was spread out so it didn’t feel crowded. We parked nearby for free and walked to eat down by the River Front!
Rhonda Gosser — Google review
A must see- nice area, rented scooters and scooted to the fountain from our hotel. The trip there took us through all the squares, and the fountain was really pretty.
Molly Zembko — Google review
This is a great park to stroll if you are visiting Savannah, big trees, fountain, large lawn to play, relax, walk, exercise, it has kids play area, stage etc. There is a restaurant, well maintained park and trails. When we visited, there were people selling their art inside this park on a trail. Restrooms were clean and were pretty busy on weekend. Paid parking around is available, sometimes on a walking distance.
Chanchal — Google review
Love going to Forsyth. Did the 5k walk which was very well organized. The park is great for people watching, enjoying a nice day, walking, events.
Deborah L — Google review
Top notch Park from end to end. Historic monuments pretty much every block for a 12 square block radius. The water fountain is amazing along with the rose garden building you walk in and the aroma of roses just smacks you in the face! I would recommend coming here if you are in the area because it's a nice place to get away from the big city while you're still in the big city.
david floyd — Google review
Went to this place twice. Yesterday it was raining super heavily and found no one
Today morning it was crowded. Nice place to every fortnight/monthly markets here.
They got good stuffs like painting, posters, accessories, eatables, clutches, juices and much more.
Heema Patel — Google review
Lots of open areas to sit. Bring a blanket to layout, no picnic tables to sit at.
The fountain was green. Pretty cool for Saint Patty’s day.
A walking trail & a stately home tour highlight life on this historic antebellum rice plantation.
The history was amazing here and the guided tour phenomenal! Our tour guide took us through the entire home and her stories came from a gentleman who used to work with the original owners. All of the furnishings were left in the house when it was left to the state of Georgia!
Rena Correia — Google review
Amazing afternoon learning about history! Thank you to our lovely tour guide for showing us the main house. A beautiful property for anyone travelling through Georgia. Make a stop...the tours are $8 for an adult and gives you access to walk around the entire Plantation.
Kaitlyn Arlotta — Google review
If you want to visit the old South, this is a good start. Beautiful property with plenty of room for kids to run about. The grove of old oak trees is nice. The plantation home hourly tour is well-done and you can freely wander the property. At one time it was a rice plantation worked by slaves.This location is close to Fort King George and the remains of the Butler plantation.There are a few additional buildings for the old dairy and an old Cutlass Supreme. The park does a large event around Dec 1st.
Burgess Adventures — Google review
A unique part of Southern history with beautiful scenery and without ANY crowds. I learned about rice plantations in school as a kid, so it was neat to finally visit one. Ranger Faye was an excellent docent on the house tour and had a wealth of knowledge. We had the tour to ourselves and could've talked for hours, if only we'd had more time!
Tom Hamilton — Google review
This Plantation of the era of Mount Vernon it seemed appropriate our home tour guide volunteer docent, Linda, should be a Virginian. We are ever fascinated with the complicated frontier history of this great country. On this midday Thursday Linda ably set the stage to get a glimpse Georgia coastal life in an earlier time. A few hours here is well spent. A walk amongst the many magnificent live oaks that date the time the Spanish first set foot on these shores can be a spiritual event.
Rod Patteson — Google review
Beautiful property right past Butler Plantation. You have to pay to visit the mansion but the outside park is free. Didnt visit the mansion so I can only speak on the property and the oaks trees out here are really old. Great place for some family photos with a old Georgia flair.
Nick Barbosa — Google review
We were heading to Fort King George and seen the sign for the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, so we took time to visit and it was absolutely amazing. We loved the grounds and the old buildings were awesome. The tour guide was amazing, she definitely made the trip. There is a lot of walking but there's also places to sit if you want a break. I definitely recommend taking the time to take the guided tour of the house.
william jones — Google review
Faye gave an enriching tour of the home. The grounds, house, out buildings are beautiful. A peaceful place full of 5 generations of rich history. Very friendly helpful staff and nice visitor center.
Kim Hodgson — Google review
I spent an hour or so taking photos and leading a swarm of horseflies around. I can't speak to the tours, but the grounds are beautiful and quiet, with spectacular live oaks and a marsh access. I'm thankful to those involved with preserving our history.
JT Gray — Google review
The plantation is open from M-F 9-5pm
Entrance fee $8.00per person from the museum there’s a 10 minutes walk to the House plantation and about 5 buildings. That you can self explore , The Main house has a tour guide And it’s every hour schedule .
It was a good plantation to explore quite historical and interesting antiquities from the 1700. Most of the furnitures are intact and original on it’s form. it’s a good educational walk from my perspective and you too can explore this place. So enjoy and have fun.
Raco medal — Google review
Amazing piece if history so well preserved that you think you've stepped back in time. Do the tour of the house and get the whole family story, it's so worth it. Absolutely beautiful property.
Matt M — Google review
This place was absolutely amazing! We had a tour guide show us around the house and it was breath taking. After the tour we were allowed to roam around the plantation. There were so many cool places to check out! I definitely recommend bring sunscreen and bug spray! I can not tell you how many times I got but our there by the marsh. I wish I could show you more pictures! I took so many on this trip but sadly I can only give you 50.
Addison Cloud — Google review
Breath taking!!! Lots of history. Really enjoyed the tour and being able to walk the grounds. The tree “Ophelia” was beautiful. Lots and lots of live oaks.
Angelia Wright — Google review
The property is gorgeous. Had a great experience engaging with the park staff. the Story of the plantation is interesting though i felt it was a PG version of events.
Scott Steffen — Google review
We spent very little time here. We had done two other state parks in close proximity, and when we pulled up, we found out that you had to, yet again, pay more money, even with a state park pass to come inside. Really getting sick and tired of Georgia letting you buy a pass and then charging you for 35% of all the other state monuments and parks.
The grounds are perfectly beautiful and the trees, I think they are live oaks, are massive and easily 200 years or older. The grounds are well-maintained. However, we did not find ourselves wanting to spend more money just to go view some more buildings. I think after you visit the King George site, there’s really no need to come here. However, I think I’m probably biased.
It was fine.
Shawn Toole — Google review
We were there on a Tuesday and our tour guide at the house was spectacular!
Leanne Brown — Google review
Plan on spending at least two hours at this location. Tours are given on the hour. The staff here are exceptionally friendly. This destination is a must-see. This site has two live oaks that are 500-800 years old. Be wary that in the summertime, the biting flies and mosquitoes can be exceptionally fierce. Our volunteer docent, Linda, took exceptional pride in her job.
Driftwood Beach, located on the north end of Jekyll Island, is a picturesque and one-of-a-kind beach destination. This beach is known for its numerous driftwood trees that create an impressive and unique sight. The size and number of these trees make them a fascinating subject to walk around and take endless photo opportunities. Driftwood Beach offers a beautiful experience that appeals to both kids and adults alike, as they can climb or sit on top of the driftwood trees to get great pictures.
I am not normally a beach person, but I absolutely love Driftwood Beach! It’s unreal how many trees are there and the size is impressive. It is just fascinating to walk around and the photo opportunities and endless. You really have to go here if you haven’t already. It is truly impressive.
Lee Spoor — Google review
Super cool spot. We just happened to walk out at golden hour before sunset and there were tons of photographers here (and people). Well worth it for the sunset views.
Very cool experience, ample parking (including ADA), and easy to access sand trails to the beach.
gordon devoss — Google review
Wow...WOW!!! We visited at evening and in the early a.m. for the sunrise. Both are great but the sunrise is a MUST!! The gnats were pretty bad in the evening so I would suggest having some bug spray, but other than that--it is definitely a must see, especially if you love sunrises and want to get some unique pictures!
Meaning Builders — Google review
A beautiful and unique beach experience. The trees are fascinating and fun to climb or sit on to get great pictures. Next time we’ll bring our teenagers who would love taking photos here.
Laurel Derry — Google review
This is a really cool site to experience due to it's unique nature. Although you can certainly try to swim here it isn't the best beach for that setup, especially with kids with other places like the dune beach close at hand. The views late or early morning with the shadows on the fallen wood is amazing. Awesome place to enjoy a stroll and nature though.
Joshua Ream — Google review
Really Unique and worth the visit. Great view. We visited in the evening but Could not stay long because of constant mosquito bites. Have some type of mosquito repellent handy. Not sure if mosquitoes are an issue only certain times or always.
vinay raja — Google review
The place where the word "dramatic" never fails. Summer, winter, day or night the place to enjoy and take spectacular photos. It is comforting to know that such places still exist. to live so close by, Blessed!
Sorina.C. Susnea — Google review
I have never seen such a unique type of beach side like this before! The scenery of driftwood, naturally neglected here and there, is spectacular! I'm very satisfied to be here with my husband and my dog. You have to pay $10 at the gate to park inside Jekyll Island, but it's worth it! The water is muddy and not cold and there are things to watch out for. There were so many insects I have never seen before. I was wearing shorts and was bitten by an insect that sucked my blood. I'm sure it wasn't a mosquito, sandfly, or horsefly. It was another large insect. It bit me and made a lot of blood flow from my leg. Be careful and carry insect repellent.
HJ Cox — Google review
It was wonderful experience it was first time visit
It is so fascinating just take a walk along the beach where you find many photo shots opportunities. There are so many dead trees and driftwood around you just need to observe to capture cool pics
I recommend this place for either sunrise or sunsets for photo shots
Need to be careful with all the crabs and mosquitos flies and so many different creatures.
Nikki D — Google review
This is truly driftwood heaven! It’s surreal walking around these huge driftwood. It’s like a sculpture park from nature. Located on the north end of Jekyll Island, it’s the highlight of our first trip to this island. There is a $10 entrance fee to Jekyllisland past the bridge.
Grace Sadosky — Google review
We loved our visit here! The beach wasn't too crowded and there was enough driftwood to walk and climb around. Really neat and unique experience for both kids and adults.
Sarah Marie Riordan — Google review
Love, love, LOVE visiting this beach!! It's so beautiful and serene. Reminds me of something straight out of a Tim Burton movie. So much to see, very picturesque and looks completely different at night. You also have a terrific view of St. Simon's Island and their lighthouse in the distance. I drive down around twice a month to visit Jekyll and I always go to Driftwood Beach.
Becky Phillips — Google review
Really cool and unique natural environment to see. If you are visiting the golden isles this is a good site on Jeykll Island.
Things to consider bringing your family:
$8 to get on island
You will be driving on a slow paced Island in neighborhoods so 25mph. No rush!
Parking is a free-for-all in grass and other areas.
No amenities so bathroom, food, medical on your own.
No lifeguards, waters can be dangerous.
Not wheelchair or mobility challenged friendly.
Anywhere near 70s the bugs can be vicious.
Can be packed so don't expect to get perfect photos at peak times unless you have one of those new phones that can erase people!
Don't break off any branches. Leave nothing but footprints.
Rob Lachance — Google review
Absolutely spectacular view. One of a kind beach for sure ! Not a place to hang out all day because the 6 foot tide will push you off the little sand that is there at low tide.
So worth the little walk and a beautiful photo opportunity if you're there at the right time. Sunset would be perfect! But the middle of the day was stunning in itself.
Some spots have rocks, and some spots are open for a small swim. Water is not the clearest but is warm. Did see dogs on leashes there.
Toni Lyn Coleman — Google review
It had rained all night - I thought that the beach would be hard/boring to see under overcast skies. I rode a bike there and was thrilled to see how moody it actually was. Very surreal place, with dead trees and branches reaching out and upward. People were picnicing there and it really was a delightful experience.
Theresa St. John — Google review
There's Driftwood and there's Driftwood Beach's Driftwood. This place is incredible! The Driftwood seems like it goes on forever! And these aren't just branches of Driftwood, they're whole trees! Definitely gotta check this place out while in the area!
Zachary Frieben — Google review
Driftwood Beach not only offers a close connection to nature and a serene atmosphere but also welcomes dogs and provides a haven for photography lovers. It is a hidden gem that combines the beauty of rustic driftwood, stunning coastal scenery, and a pet-friendly environment, creating a perfect blend of tranquility and inspiration.
V T — Google review
Great dog friendly beach to take a stroll or have a picnic. The scenery is surreal. I came in the rain & in clear weather each was a great visit.
Refcon — Google review
This is one of my favorite places in Georgia. In the summer, it's the perfect place to go and play in the water. In the winter, it's the perfect place to walk along the beach, look at the shells, and hear the waves slap the sand. Whether you are single, married, or married with kids, Driftwood Beach is an outstanding place to visit.
C Smith — Google review
By far the most unique beach I've ever been to! Don't expect to build sandcastles and lay out for a tan here, but do be prepared for some incredibly unique trees and rock formations!
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is an educational institution dedicated to the study, protection and recovery of sea turtles and their ecosystem. It has a vast store with a diverse range of items associated with the center. The facility offers informative exhibits on sea turtles and rehabilitation services available here. Visitors can also observe the place where injured sea turtles are taken care of outside the building. The center conducts programs like "Meet the Patients" to acquaint visitors with different patients in tanks showcasing its work on marine animal rescue.
Wonderful place! The staff is nice and informative. The information shows are great and get the audience involved. It was crowded but everyone got along and you were able to do all the hands on things in the museum area. The turtle hospital itself is great and they keep it well maintained and clean.
Courtney Carlton — Google review
My kids enjoyed this a lot (11 and 9). It is pretty small, one building has the patients in and has information about them all, the other is more of an information center/museum. There are several hands on displays and you can watch the staff working on injured turtles. This place does great work and is definitely worth supporting.
Gemma Schaefer — Google review
This was a very cool place. The museum had several interactive storyboards. The hospital was opened to the public and they give talks about all the patients. Also, the gift shop had great items. Well worth a visit.
RV Traveler — Google review
I've been wanting to go here for a long time and really enjoyed our visit. As you walk in there's a huge store with a large selection of Georgia Sea Turtle Center merchandise. After the store is a nice exhibit with lots of information about sea turtles and rehabilitation. You can walk outside and visit the area where the sick and injured turtles are being cared for. We attended "Meet the Patients", which was a 20-minute talk about the different patients in the tanks. It's a very nice facility and they do amazing work here. A must visit when on Jekyll Island.
Arthur de Wolf — Google review
Very cool place. With a biology degree and having worked at a zoo, I’m not the biggest fan of most places that house animals unless they are rehabilitation focused. The sea turtle center is the greatest practitioner of what I look for. Their focus is rehabilitation! The pomp and circumstance that you often find with zoos and the like is not present here, but they still do a great job of educating visitors and all money spent for admission and souvenirs go back toward the center. It seems small, and you may not spend much time here, but the work they do is necessary and deserving of every penny you give them.
Zack Williams — Google review
This place is so cute and wonderful. We got to watch vets work on baby turtles, see tons of rehabilitation on sea turtles and some baby box turtles, and even play a few games inside. The gift shop is really lovely too!! Well worth the visit if you’re on Jekyll Island.
Joey Rains — Google review
Kids loved it, parents too! Go to see turtles and give for a good cause! Adults $10, kids $8.
We spent about 75 min enjoying all the information and seeing dozens of turtles.
The turtle hospital is impressive. Information is available on each turtle and the reason for their stay.
The staff is passionate and knowledgeable. Volunteers are dedicated.
Free adjacent parking, follow the white turtles painted on the road.
Large giftshop for best souvenirs on the island and to support a great organization.
Allanah — Google review
I am so happy I brought my kids to visit! I used to drive down while stationed at Fort Stewart (it was much quieter 20 years ago), but sharing this experience with them will be a flashbulb memory. The Staff is patient and kind, plus incredibly knowledgeable.
Jenna J — Google review
Wonderful that this place exists and is able to rescue so many sea turtles, and nurse them back to health. Fantastic volunteers who are super knowledgeable and also very friendly. The center is not very large, but it does offer all the information you could want about sea turtles as well as the challenges they face out in the ocean, and is definitely worth a visit.
Nicole McDonald — Google review
Small but definitely worth a visit. Kids enjoyed this place, but so did we two seniors. If you love nature and love learning, you need to visit and support their efforts to educate and save these beautiful creatures. We met Park Rangers and Volunteers who are working to rehabilitate injured wildlife. Thank you!
Elizabeth DelFranco — Google review
It's a hospital to rehabilitate sea turtles. There is fun informative activities for kids. It's not massive but it feels like you are supporting a neat cause. If there aren't turtles it's good and bad. It's good that there aren't any that need medical attention but you won't get to see any. The staff was super nice and could answer all of our questions.
Rudy Rangel — Google review
Really nice place great for young kids to see a lot of sea turtles up close. They have a great set of guilds that tell you about all the turtles in the rehab area and had viewing window of surgery. They have gators there as well.
Scott Rob — Google review
Kids loved it along with the parents too!
We spent about an hour and a half enjoying all the information and seeing dozens of turtles.
When going inside you walk into the gift shop then head into exhibit. There is a path that leads outside to the hospital which was informative. There is information beside each turtle with their name and the reason for their stay.
We got to see baby turtles that had hatched a week or two prior to our visit!
Cynthia Downey — Google review
This was a little difficult to navigate to so make sure to use GPS. Very little cell service. The museum is a little small but the rehabilitation center is worth it all. Friendly staff and very educational. I spent 2 hours just in the rehab center talking with the volunteers and learning about the turtles they have now.
Courtney Chambers — Google review
This was great and so fun for my toddler (and the adults)! All the staff we met were very friendly and knowledgeable. I loved learning about the rehabilitation process and turtles in general.
Sami Snow — Google review
I enjoyed my visit here but do feel it could do a little more to engage visitors/increase the experience.
Your visit is mostly self guided although someone does speak about the turtles for about 15 minutes inside the rehab. The indoor exhibit has some turtle facts and also a viewing area into the hospital room; they were cleaning a little guys flipper who had recently been brought injured.
The rehab area had a number of pools with turtles inside. Some of the turtles had to be viewed by looking at a mirror and you are a distance away from the turtles so it is kind if hard to see them.
Our visit lasted 30 minutes and that was with us really taking our time- our ticketed time slot was 9a-10a. I thought there would have been more of a presentation/tour. I wouldn't personally go out of your way for this visit.
Trouvaille B — Google review
This is a great place to come see. It is a little small but nice. It is about a hour to two hours to do the whole this. There is three rooms. The gift shop, the information center and the turtle rehab tubs. Lots of information. Do not expect an Aquarium. You will be disappointed. Expect a small facility.
Gabriella King — Google review
Kind of disappointed with the center because the exhibits are mostly reading and lift-the-flaps rather than truly interactive. The rehabilitation area was interesting, however, and we were able to see a few sea turtles swimming in their little “hospital rooms.” The gift shop was nice.
Postcards from Georgia — Google review
My children and I loved visiting the turtle center. Anna was wonderful, explaining to us all about the rescued turtles and doing a great demo of what they eat. We loved it and hope to return on our next visit.
Erika F — Google review
Very cool experience. There is a lot to see from an interactive museum to a sea turtle hospital. Well, worth a visit.
Paul W. Peel — Google review
This place was great, not at all what I expected. I was hoping it was a place that had more interaction with the turtles and closer. The information was great and being able to see and hear about saving the turtles and what all they do to help was great.
Fort Clinch State Park is a large Florida state park that includes the Fort Clinch, built in 1847 after the end of the Second Seminole War. The park features 1,400 acres of natural Florida wildlife and coastal land with trails to explore below the canopy.
This park and the Fort are very nice. This was my first time visiting Amelia island and Fernandina beach. It cost $6 to get in the park and another $3 to enter the fort.
You do a self guided tour of the fort. There are cannons there on the top of the fort walls. The buildings have been restored so you can see how this fort was lived in and used to defend the island.
If you are in the area visit this fort. I did not get to see the park, but it sure looked pretty.
V Bennett — Google review
I Absolutely Love This State Park! Well Maintained and Clean. The Staff are Amazing... Friendly and Happy to Talk about the History of the Fort. The Fort is a Must See and the Beach is So Beautiful. Can't wait to come back when i have more time and walk the long trail. Definitely a must see if you are in the area!
Anita Waters — Google review
Went to this park for the first time recently and it is a great park. There are some amazing beaches with nice easy access as well as the first itself. There are also many campsites for both campers and tents however I didn’t camp overnight so couldn’t speak to the overnight accommodations. As for the fort, it’s definitely worth checking out. I’ve been to several historic forts in Florida and this was definitely my favorite. It’s very in tact compared to what I expected after seeing others.
Matt Rodeghero — Google review
Absolutely love camping here when we can get a spot. It doesn’t matter if you are in the river campground or the beach campground, they are both very close to the beach. Only electric and water at each campsite but the dump station is easily accessible and is not next to any RV sites.
Very clean restrooms that are cleaned daily with bleach. Good ventilation so the floors dry. Campground hosts available for any issues.
Susan Baker — Google review
I love this place so much. The wooded, moss-covered drive to the fort is breathtaking, and the fort itself is absolutely gorgeous and so well-kept! The history is fascinating, and the views are amazing. Kids and adults alike will enjoy Fort Clinch!
Jenny Lundy — Google review
If you were a fan of history this is a must visit. Usually the line of cars waiting to get in are heading to the beach and not to the fort. So you can have a great day out with the family at an attraction like this without the crowds. And then when you’re done it’s a short walk over to the beach. Facilities are limited bring your own picnic lunch and water
Peter Templeton — Google review
This state park is gorgeous. The beach is gorgeous, pristine, and has TONS of shells. The fort is amazing to explore and walk through, and their prices are extremely reasonable. We spent hours here and enjoyed all of it. The fort can take hours to explore, and we spent hours walking the beach and collecting shells. I would visit again in a heartbeat and hope to the next time we make a trip down this way. The restrooms were nice and clean, and the gift shop had great prices. I absolutely loved the fort and being able to walk around in it freely. There are some areas not allowed to be explored, but most of it is, and it's so worth the stop. We stopped as it was the first beach in Florida on our way down, and our daughter wanted to see the ocean for the first time. I'm so glad we made the choice to stop here.
Rachel Baumgartner — Google review
We absolutely loved our experience here. We really enjoyed getting to explore the Fort inside and out. The Fort had some really neat brickwork and architecture. There were SO many great photo opportunities! We hunted for shark teeth on the beach by the fort but we didnt find any. We took the smaller nature trail (Willow Trail) and it was very nice and and easy walk. The Egan's look out was nice as well. It's a beautiful 3 mile drive from the gate to the fort. We highly recommend the Fort and park in general for an inexpensive nice day of exploring! It costs $6 to enter the park and $2.50 per person for the Fort. Well worth it!!!
Rachael Sandefur — Google review
The drive in is absolutely gorgeous, canopied oaks with deer peeking out. The fort itself is a very cool piece of history. Standing beside some of those gun batteries does not make you envious of an assaulting force. Multiple jetties to fish and a ton of coastline battered with shells by the raging Atlantic. The hiking and biking trails are well cut and easy to share, I was on foot this trip. Not far from here you can drive on the beach, in a much more relaxed environment than Daytona ever is. Really. Great facilities, as most of Florida’s State Parks do. Will definitely be a return trip someday!
Walt Wunderly — Google review
One awesome experience. Probably my favorite of the 3 forts we have here in NE Florida. It's not only larger then both Castillo in St Augustine and Matanzas, but also located at a beach which you have access to. The barracks are in great conditions and the staff are dressed for the period, and are very knowledgeable. Great views from the Fort and cannons. You can see the FL/GA line too as GA is on the other side of the water. Its really affordable too, at around 2.50 entry per person plus the park charges $5 per vehicle to enter the park. Check the hours as the park stays open later than Fort.
Igor Vieira — Google review
This state park is a wonderful and vast state park that everyone should be sure to visit. It is a long beautiful drive in with smaller access roads breaking from man road leading to campsites and trail heads. At the end of the road there is Fort Clinch. The fort is well maintained with nice bathrooms in the front, a small gift shop where souvenirs or camping needs can be purchased. The fort is an additional charge to visit.
CMB Caspanello — Google review
Very easy access and an informative self guided tour. The grounds are immaculately taken care of. The gift shop has a well stocked selection of very affordable items. This is a must visit location when visiting Amelia Island.
Terri Austin — Google review
This fort was built strong and proud. Those who served here had amenities and thoughtful fort design to live a pretty nice life. Absolutely worth visiting. The drive into the fort was beautiful. Great lighthouse nearby.
Tamara Zelaya — Google review
I love this park! So much to do! Nature trails, the fort, the beach etc The scenery is so beautiful and we even saw some deer the other evening while headed to the East access beach! Great for finding seashells! One of the best spots for shells I've found yet! Found 2 sand dollars and a bunch of conchs!!
Vanessa May — Google review
One of the best fort museums I have been to. It's 6 bucks to get a car into the park and another $2.50 per person for the fort. The museum is small but informative. What makes this fort so great is pretty much everything is open to the public. Some rooms were blocked off but you could climb the bastions or walk the walls. Barracks spaces and office spaces were open, too. The view is also spectacular. And once you are done, you are just minutes from a beach to hang out on.
Shaun K. — Google review
We stayed beachside in spot #9. This park is absolutely beautiful. Deer, tortoises, birds, and amazing sunsets. Park was very well kept with clean facilities throughout. Super impressed!
Jennifer Clark-Jeffers — Google review
I am a giant history buff and I usually love places like this but it's a big NO for me. DEFINITELY HAUNTED. 💯 my husband and I were so uncomfortable by the paranormal feelings we were experiencing we had to leave. As we were leaving I did some research and apparently it's one of the most well known haunted places in the area (not advertised that way!!) We had our boys with us ages 2 and 6 and it was absolutely NOT SAFE for them.
Serenity Scofield — Google review
My family absolutely loves Fort Clinch.
I wouldn’t recommend going in the summer because it’s insanely hot but if you can go in the fall it’s an amazing day trip! You can walk around the beach, there’s a small kids park and there are so many different nooks and crannies to discover in the fort. And if you’re there on a reenactment day it’s so exciting. We also started the junior ranger program for our kids on this trip and they were able to obtain Fort Clinch patches.
Ashley Minor — Google review
Great state park to go camp at. Though if you go during the summer, I recommend camping in the River loop because there is hardly any shade on the beach loop, though being a telescope if you are by the beach, some good night star viewing. The fort itself is also very worth the visit to learn about weapons and history of fort life, they also do a number of reenactments every month so check the calender, they'll demonstrate firing of the weapons including a cannon. Also take some time to bike or walk the nature trails and beaches, as they provide a chance for some solitude and reflection
Victor Alvarez — Google review
This park is gorgeous! From towering dunes to ancient oak trees to a historical fort, it is an incredibly diverse location with rich natural resources and broad appeal. As a birder, I was excited to have a variety of preserved habitats. The marshy overlook had great shorebirds and the extensive hardwood canopy was a sure bet for warblers and other passerines. The shoreline was great for seabirds, shorebirds and sharks’ teeth. There is a narrow multi-use path for bicyclists and pedestrians that runs through the park. During our visit, we only used small stretches of the path to access some of the views, but it looked amazing. The only negative is that this place gets packed, and during peak times, closes to new visitors to limit capacity. There seems to be a lot of zippy traffic on the road and I could never figure out why people are in such a hurry when there is so much beauty even on the main road. If you’re in the area and are a nature lover, this should definitely be on your list!
Stephanie Parker — Google review
This was our first time to visit this place. The entrance was very cheap to go in and the site was very interesting. Most areas of the fort can be accessed by the public. They keep on restoring the original site and I can't wait to go back and see you when it's fully done. I think 42 adults and 2 children it costs us about 20 to $25. I recommend checking this place out because it's a good part of American history. There are restrooms at the visitors center only.
Erastos Evdoxiadis — Google review
Sublime and relaxing. Canopy of trees with Spanish Moss and Palmetto everywhere. Facilities include bright and clean bathrooms with shower stalls, washers and dryers ($2 per load) The fort is a major draw and the river has sandy beach along its shoreline. Plenty of hiking trails. A bike is a good have as the place is huge.
Liston Bevard — Google review
It's a very nice park with several RV camping area and ALOT of shoreline to walk through. There's also Ft Clinch, which is still standing and in fairly good shape. The beach areas were very nice. There's a small gift shop that is surprisingly well stocked. My wife and I enjoyed our visit there!
peter pinkham — Google review
Wonderful time visiting this fort with our family. Highly recommend this historical site for a visit as the views overlooking the ocean is amazing. Lots of artifacts and history to see and learn.
Blue & Green Traveling Team — Google review
My husband and I, always eager for a daytime adventure, found ourselves drawn to Fort Clinch State Park during our stay in Amelia Island. We had driven past it a few times and curiosity got the better of us - a decision we’re now incredibly grateful for. The park not only offered excellent campgrounds but also revealed itself to be a historic gem.
Upon entering, we were immediately struck by how well-preserved the fort is. It’s like stepping into a different era. The museum-like demonstrations are exceptionally well done. We explored the sleeping quarters, kitchens, latrines, jailhouse, storage areas, and even a store and steelworks. Also several real life artillery and cannons were on display. Each section was an insightful glimpse into the past, making it easy to imagine life during those times. The attention to detail in these demonstrations was remarkable, offering a vivid and educational experience.
The most captivating aspect of Fort Clinch is how it immerses you in history. It’s not just about seeing; it’s about feeling the past around you. We spent hours wandering through the grounds, absorbing every detail, and left with a newfound appreciation for the history of the area.
Our visit to Fort Clinch has inspired us to plan a camping trip there on our next visit to Amelia Island. The thought of spending a night under the stars, surrounded by such rich history, is thrilling. We highly recommend Fort Clinch to anyone visiting Amelia Island, whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a unique way to spend your day. It’s a must-visit destination that offers a perfect blend of education, nature, and adventure.
Ladybug Mobile Notary — Google review
The park was great to ride our bicycles around. We also went to thevactual Fort at this state park. They had bicycle racks there too. My husband said this was the best fort that made him feel like you could be right there with the soldiers. Very well maintained! Canons overlooking the water. Bunk house with gun rack at the end of the beds for soldiers to put their weapons. Kitchen was set up with huge pots, cooking utensils of the day. Well worth the price of admission!
C. E. — Google review
Must see while visiting Fernandina Beach. Spectacular and amazing site to see. Very well kept and clean! The park entrance fee is $6 per car and the Fort Clinch entrance fee is $2.50 per person. Very much worth the cost. You are able to access most of the buildings on the fort. I was surprised how open and accessible it was.
Sandi — Google review
This was a nice sized fort. It had a lot of cool buildings with what felt like secret passageways. Lots to explore here. If you are on Amelia Island, it's a great place to check out.
Laura H — Google review
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2601 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA
The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a place where rescued exotic cats, such as tigers, lions, and pumas live in a beautiful and sustainable environment. The ranch can be visited with guided tours day or night, during which visitors learn about the animals and their natural habitats.
What a really cool place to see big cats and other wildlife. To be fair there's not a lot to do other than looking, but it's a good cause that we like so it was fun for us just to look at the tigers and other cats. On Sundays they do enrichment activities which would add a lot more entertainment value. The cost for entry is very inexpensive and supports the cats, if you like cats or your kids do, I highly recommend.
mike johnson — Google review
After seeing many zoos and rescues while visiting Florida, I will have to say Catty Shack was one of the most refreshing and caring. Staff was funny and the big cats seemed to just love them! The big cats seemed to love and want the attention of staff, and the new enclosures they’re adding speak to their love for the cats at their facility. I went to the midday enrichment tour and loved it!
Marie Larson — Google review
We loved this place. The only reason that I'm giving it four stars is because the hours that they are open are the absolute hottest times of the day. So it felt like we were unable to see most of the animals as they were all hiding underneath their enclosures to stay cool. That was extremely disappointing. The staff was kind though. If you have any opportunity, I would go during the winter months so that way you have the opportunity to see the animals out and about.
Afton Lorenz — Google review
Okay so the first thing you should know is that the park is smack dab in the middle of a low-key cute residential area which totally threw us off. When we pulled up we were expecting a backyard zoo because of the location, but man were we were wrong. They said they have 200 acres or developing, right now I'd say it's probably more like 8 acres that they actually have built up. You can tell that they are trying their best to give the tigers a nice life with waterfalls, swimming pools, toys, cabins. There's a lot more than just tigers here, they've got a very cute black bear, a black leopard, and some other small cats. Including their resident kitty cat that roams fearlessly. We went for the feeding experience and it was absolutely worth it. We got so many amazing pictures, and got to see so many beautiful big cats. This is an absolutely excellent place to come with the whole family regardless of age. Don't forget to buy some T-shirts at the gift shop, or a stuffed animal for the kids because that small places like this, every dollar counts towards keeping it running. We're excited to come back in a couple of years and see all of the progress that they have made. (We live very far away)
E'ala Burgess — Google review
Such a fun place to visit! Highly recommend coming for the night feedings. Not only were the animals more active but you also get to speak with volunteers/employees and learn so much more than usual. The shack also has 3 cute house kitties running around that are so sweet too - definitely pet if you see them! Very cool preserve and will be coming back to support in the future.
Kendell — Google review
What a great place! The wonderful staff & volunteers are very knowledgeable, and take lots of time to talk to you. The big cats are very well taken care of and their habitats are clean.
Thank you guys for all you for the critters, looking forward to my return visit. I wish I lived closer so I could volunteer and help you guys!
Denise Byrne — Google review
Such a great local hidden gem! If you're looking for a great way to support animals this place is a must see! Beautiful rescued tigers and other big cats. They're a volunteer based organization and working hard to provide these gorgeous creatures with new comfortable habitats to enjoy! A must see !
Renee K. — Google review
We took our family here as a birthday present to one of our girls. It is worth visiting at least once. Free mosquito spray available. If it has been raining bring footwear for mud and water. I am not sure the night feeding is worth the extra money to all but we were entertained. Think of it as a donation for a good cause. It took us about an hour to walk around and see everything before feeding time.
Cory B. — Google review
Catty shack was BEYOND AMAZING!!!! Not as huge as a zoo but well thought out and a lot of information that definitely makes it worth while! Very clean and well kept! Staff are very knowledgeable, and definitely love their job!!!! Best time to go is when it’s feeding time because let me tell ya hearing a lion eat is amazing! So majestic wouldn’t want to be the food but just amazing to see them! Highly recommend you stopping by and checking them out! Huge thank you to the staff that made me kids day!!!!
Brandon E — Google review
This was an awesome experience! It's better than a zoo. They have beautiful cats,a bear,foxes.,many more..a must visit! Well taken care of animals and beautiful property. The show,feeding the animals was amazing to watch..The caretakers,and owners were nice,friendly and very hands on. If you get a chance,visit...great place..and donate to them..they take very good care of the animals, some were abandoned, displaced..
Cathie — Google review
This place was amazing. I was a little hesitant when we pulled up, it doesn't look like it would be very much from the outside. But they have a lot of big cats it nice enclosures. Things are easy to see (if the cats aren't inside napping) and the people are amazing. The volunteers take time to talk to you about the animals and how they came there. You can tell everyone really loves what they do. Definitely a place to go.
Ryan E Voris — Google review
Went for their 7 PM feeding tonight. All the staff were great and the guy performing the feeding (I'm assuming he was the owner) was very informative and you could tell he loves what he does.
The cats were awesome and it was great seeing them get all excited when it was feeding time.
Overall I'd recommend checking them out. Great place to take the kids.
Nick Carson — Google review
We went to the evening feeding of the animals and it was extremely cool! We loved learning about all the residents and all the love and care they get while living in their new home. You can definitely tell that they are well cared for and loved! I enjoy taking my toddler to help not only learn about nature but gives her a chance to run around outside as well!
Jess Fix — Google review
I brought my family from out of state and we all had the best time. The volunteers are so knowledgeable and friendly and love to help and answer questions. The cats are so well cared for, that you can see for yourself they are happy and content. They don't just hide and sleep like at the zoos. We will come back for sure.
bruce bratcher — Google review
I have lived in Nassau County and Duval County my entire life and have failed to make it here until yesterday. It was a wonderful experience and I will certainly be back. We did the enrichment tour which was really fun as the cats got really excited about the boxes of chicken and were super active. The volunteers were really amazing and told us all about the cats and their personalities/ why the cats are at catty shack. It was a great time.
Sam B — Google review
Amazing place!! Get to be very up close to all the animals and see the workers interact with them. I've only been once but I got to see one of the workers pet the tigers and lions. The tigers were very active and got to hear them roar! They also have accommodation sunscreen and bug spray. Not a lot of walking, when I went it was very muddy but it has recently rained so I'm not too sure how it would be for wheelchairs.
Elijah — Google review
I really don't know why some people have given this sanctuary such low stars, this is a sanctuary not a zoo it isnt for entertainment! And do you think the places they got these animals from where better ...well that's a NO and we should be helpful that these animals have found a forever home :)
The habitats are clean and well kept they are even adding waterfalls/pools to them !
The staff/volunteers were so friendly and so informative !
Please check out their Amazon wish list to help with items they need. They are a 501c and dont reveive government help !
Leslie ZP — Google review
Go on a cooler day and more animals will be out.
We had a great time seeing some exotic animals and walking around the grounds.
The people working are knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions.
Complimentary bug spray and sunscreen at the front.
Info on adopting or sponsoring an animal also at the front.
Sarh Max — Google review
First time here and loved it! The staff and volunteers were friendly and knowledgeable. They have ongoing construction as they are expanding. Also plan to build sticks and bricks to replace some structures that are trailers. Lots of kids. Reasonable price and worth the experience!
Denise F — Google review
This is hands down the coolest place to go. The knowledge that the staff has and the care that you can see that they have for the animals is unreal. I got to see an afternoon snack for the lions which was so cool. I also got to hear the lions roar which was seriously the most amazing things to hear ever. 20/10 recommend this place to go.
Paige Peery — Google review
These cats were well taken care of and they had a relationship with the volunteers they were interacting with. You could hear them chuffing & vocalizing with staff & they got excited when they saw them coming. It was educational and they were building even larger enclosures when we visited. The kids loved it! (Except when the lynx tried to back that thang up to spray my teenaged son for taking pictures too close...which made him drop his phone over the restricted fence line 🤣🤣🤣)
Vanessa Bettinger — Google review
We love this place. First time here. We enjoyed the animals. They are well taken care of. Can't wait to come back next year and see the new homes for them. Very nice place to visit. There is a gentleman there,don't know his name, but he was really nice and informative.
Lora Stew55 — Google review
It's a really cool place! A non profit big cat sanctuary that is a must go if you're in the Jacksonville area. They do great work for these endangered animals and the kids will love it too!
Jacksonville Beach is a seaside vacation destination located in Duval County, Florida, USA. Originally known as Pablo Beach when it was established in 1907, the city eventually changed its name to Jacksonville Beach in 1925. It is one of several communities that make up the Jacksonville Beaches area.
Yes! You can drive from Ocracoke to St. Augustine.
How far is St. Augustine from Ocracoke by car?
The drive from Ocracoke to St. Augustine is 656 miles (1,056 km).
How long does it take to drive from Ocracoke to St. Augustine?
Driving from Ocracoke to St. Augustine should take you 12 hrs 55 mins in normal traffic.
How much would gas cost from Ocracoke to St. Augustine?
Gas from Ocracoke to St. Augustine would cost around $58 to $134, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
Where should I stop on the way from Ocracoke to St. Augustine?
You could check out Fort Macon State Park and North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, or the always popular North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace!
What are the best cities to visit between Ocracoke and St. Augustine?
People love visiting Savannah, Jacksonville, and Raleigh, among others.
What's the weather like in Ocracoke?
It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.