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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Salisbury to Charleston?
The direct drive from Salisbury to Charleston is 249 mi (401 km), and should have a drive time of 3 hrs 53 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Salisbury to Charleston, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Charlotte, Columbia, and Concord, as well as top places to visit like Lazy 5 Ranch and The Pit Indoor Kart Racing, or the ever-popular Fort Dobbs State Historic Site.
The top cities between Salisbury and Charleston are Charlotte, Columbia, and Concord. Charlotte is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Salisbury and 3 hours from Charleston.
1
Concord
Concord is the county seat and most populous city in Cabarrus County, in the U.S. state of North Carolina. At the 2020 census, the city had a population of 105,240. Wikipedia.
12% as popular as Charlotte
9 minutes off the main route, 10% of way to Charleston
Located in North Carolina, Charlotte is a bustling metropolis and a significant economic center. Its contemporary downtown area, known as Uptown, is home to various attractions such as the Levine Museum of the New South that delves into the history of the South post-Civil War and Discovery Place which showcases interactive science exhibits. Additionally, Uptown boasts the NASCAR Hall of Fame that celebrates auto racing through immersive displays and movies.
Most popular city on this route
5 minutes off the main route, 18% of way to Charleston
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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.
40% as popular as Charlotte
4 minutes off the main route, 54% of way to Charleston
Best stops along Salisbury to Charleston drive
The top stops along the way from Salisbury to Charleston (with short detours) are Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Carowinds, and Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. Other popular stops include Middleton Place, NASCAR Hall of Fame, and Charlotte Motor Speedway.
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Fort Dobbs State Historic Site
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Site of an 18th-century fort with yearly reenactments, plus a log-cabin visitor center & gift shop.
Tour guides are very knowledgeable. Amazing reproduction of the fort. It gives you a good idea what life was like while living there. The price of the tour is only $2 per person.
April Smith — Google review
We visited Fort Dobbs as a time killer before our flight back home to NJ.. turned out to be a very interesting place with some great history. My son and I essentially had a private tour of the place with our guide ( who was very nice and knowledgeable, in full period garb).. Tour tickets are very reasonable and they had a cool little gift shop. Definitely worth a visit if you enjoy history and artifacts..
Rosario Conelli — Google review
Definitely sign up for a tour. They are every 45 minutes. Tickets are $2 pp. The tour was very informative. Little did we know there was a fort in the area that protected the frontier before the American Revolution. The fort is a replica built in 2019. One can't go in without a tour.
Mark Amidon — Google review
I walked the grounds with my girls because no pets were allowed in the building. I somehow missed the entrance and parked at the closed gates along the side of the road. The walk to the fort wasn't far. The grass was pretty dried and can feel a little sharp underneath the little paws. One of my girls needed me to pick her up because of the dried sharp grass. She later managed to find clay dirt to walk on when we were walking back to the car... sensitive and smart pup 🥰. I found the paved walkway from the fort to the parking lot. The visitor center is in the little log cabin behind the fort where you can get tickets for the tour of the fort. The parking area has bathrooms, too.
Tilly Lo — Google review
We walked around the place, went on a Friday afternoon - we had just missed the last tour group at 3:30pm but still really enjoyed getting to walk the trail. Spent about 30 minutes there although I believe the tours are closer to an hour and they're only $2/person so I recommend calling ahead and seeing when they're running, definitely would be worth it! We just didn't have the time this weekend. Really friendly staff, the guy working the visitor center gave us some cool information and there's a little gift shop in there as well but what's really cool are the artifacts on display. Highly recommend for a quick, fun, inexpensive activity and cool piece of history in Statesville!
Valerie Brooks — Google review
Jason was an amazing tour guide. He was so informative and so entertaining. He answered all our questions and busted lots of myths of the time period.
I recommend a visit! We hadn’t planned on visiting but we’re nearby, and I am glad we stumbled onto the fort!
Rachel Mercaldo — Google review
Had a really wonderful short visit here today. We first met a guy outside who was using a drawknife on a shavehorse who was tidying up some roof shingles for the blacksmith area and another guy splitting wood with a froe. If I had more time I'd have rolled up my sleeves. Anyway, we went on the tour which is $2 an adult, which is peanuts for what you get. What you get is an incredibly detailed, passionate and interesting historical telling of the history around the fort and wider conflict and politics. We could have spent many more hours talking to our guide who was genuinely interested and welcoming to our questions. The fort is impressive and a wholly modern reconstruction and I really liked it. I wished we were there on reenactment day and producers market day, but there's no room to give it 6/5 stars. Bravo gentlemen.
Chris Partridge — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyed our visit. This is the site of the only permanent frontier provincial fort in the colony of North Carolina. Our guide was very friendly, professional, and informative!
Keith Hibbets — Google review
Scott gave a great tour. The site is very well done. It's worth a visit! So glad we went.
Mary Rymer — Google review
Went to see the Defense of Fort Dobbs here. Saw weapons demonstrations, Cherokee tribe members, wool-spinning demonstrations and life inside the fort. Enjoyed!
A Campbell — Google review
A nice state historic site with a reproduction of a French and Indian War era fortification and other structures. It's well worth the $2 to take the guided tour; it gives you a lot of insight into the role the fort played and what happened on the North Carolina frontier during the often overlooked and forgotten French and Indian War.
Mac McCormick III — Google review
This is a wonderful, free* historical site just north of Statesville, NC. The fort is a recreation of the original but is very well done. There are many signs around, explaining different aspects of the fort and it’s history. There is a playground and bathrooms, both located in the parking area. (During events, additional parking is located in a designated field across the street.)
They have many free historical reenactments throughout the year. They are educational and family friendly.
The grounds are very well maintained and mostly handicapped accessible, except that the paved walkway goes through the fort, and not around it.
* It costs $2 to take a guided tour of the fort.
DK Coleman — Google review
This is a very neat place to learn about our country’s history during the French and Indian War. The weekend we went was during a reenactment and the folks were clearly very passionate about what they do. It was enjoyable to be part of it and we learned some things, as well. Cost of admission is free but we did give a small donation (donation box is in the gift shop).
Emily Kennedy — Google review
Fort Dobbs is just a few miles from my home, but this is the first time I've visited since they built the fort. There is a small charge, but it is well worth it. I would definitely recommend a visit!
Cindy Findlay — Google review
Very interesting site. Definitely worth stopping if you are driving by or in the area. I wouldn’t recommend driving more than an hour to see. It is very small and not a whole lot to see or do but the guide was friendly, informative and the price was right! There was a nice walking path, leaves were beautiful, washrooms were clean.
Heidi Graham — Google review
This is a really, really cool place. The tour guides are awesome and you can tell they really love their jobs. You feel like you're stepping into a time machine almost. The history is fascinating, even for kids. The grounds are gorgeous also. Definitely worth a stop.
Kristina Hernandez — Google review
Priceless experience. A lot of details from the first hands of State government employees- State historians. Highly recommend for a half day trip.
The Lazy 5 Ranch, situated in Mooresville, NC on Highway 150, is a fascinating zoo featuring both domestic and exotic animals from six continents. The admission fee is reasonable and includes wagon rides and petting areas. Visitors can also purchase feed buckets for each person in the vehicle to interact with the animals up close. It's an exciting destination point for locals or out-of-towners seeking a fun-filled adventure with family or friends.
Absolutely one of the greatest ways to spend a day! Well worth the $15. The land in itself is gorgeous, but the animal experience is one of a kind. The animals are people friendly & eager to eat! They have delicious treats too...funnel cakes, fried PB & J, ice cream, etc. It is evident the animals are well loved & taken care of. I highly recommend for kids, but it is definitely a great place for a fun date. I will be returning.
Stacey Dennis — Google review
Absolutely amazing! I have been on multiple African safaris and this is better. The sheer number of animals, their size and personality is incredible (and hilarious). Getting to interact with the animals is an incredible experience. Highly recommend this as a Charlotte-area day trip! Make sure to leave time for a car wash on the way home though, the animal drool is real 😂
Joseph Metzger — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyed seeing and Interacting with the different kids of animals. My favorites were all of them!
My only concern was that the Giraffes need a bigger place to run,Instead of the corral they're in.
I will be going back again .
The animals look well fed and 😊 happy. My grandson who's 2, fell in love with the lamas.
I really hope the next time we go there in August, the Giraffes have bigger place to roam and run around in
Blessings to the Owners
Nancy Arellano — Google review
We love coming here. We come every year, at least once, and see what’s new. I love the changes that have taken place over the years and how it has grown. I’m not crazy about the emu, but that’s just my personal phobia. I did get a perfectly timed photo as my boyfriend fed one though! We have never gone through on the wagons as we like to just take our time and roll along. This is always a wonderful time with family and we make great memories each time we go.
They also have a large covered area that I rent out in advance for birthday parties and such. It has multiple long picnic tables under it so can handle a decent sized get together.
Word to the wise…. buy more than one feed bucket and don’t put it all out at once. The animals will grab it and it’s gone. The newbies always make that mistake and you see feed buckets all along the road.
Shellie Figueroa (Mama Figgy) — Google review
Super fun for friends and family!! I recommend for NC residents to visit at least once. It's a great place for out of state visitors as well. Safe and fun for kids and adults as well!! Highly recommend visiting the amazing animals. Buy a couple of buckets of animal food to have the most fun.
Romeooh — Google review
Loved Lazy 5 Ranch is Mooresville NC. My friend was in town so thought it would be fun and it was. Each ticket was $15 and $3 for a bucket of food to feed the animals. Cash only. You can drive on your own or go in a wagon. We opted to drive. The drive took about 50 minutes and we saw zebra, giraffe, emu, goats, pigs and lots of other stuff. A magazine came with our tickets so it explained all the wildlife there. After we walked around a bit and saw some other birds and kangaroos! This is really a great place for all ages. Had a blast! Will definitely go back.
HJC — Google review
We had such a blast it was non stop laughter and smiles looking at all these amazing animals.
We absolutely can’t wait to come back and do the wagon ride next time!
The ranch seemed very taken care of,
Nice and clean.
Staff was nice as well.
Absolutely loved this whole experience.
My 3 year old animal loving self keeps asking to go back to the ranch.
They only do cash!
And I recommend 4 buckets and hold them tight!
Pam Martinez — Google review
Great way to spend the afternoon, especially with kids. We took a leisurely drive around to feed the animals, then walked the enclosures. Our favorite was feeding the llamas. We were also surprised to see Kangaroos!
Ethan Sallaz — Google review
I've visited Lazy 5 Ranch around 5 or 6 times. It's a lovely spot for spending time with kids, boasting a decent array of animals and birds. Feeding the animals during the drive-through is particularly enjoyable. While the wagon ride is good, most of the animals are seen along the car drive lanes. During our last visit, we attended the Easter Egg Hunt, which was impressively organized and thoroughly enjoyable. The egg drop from the helicopter was a fantastic experience, greatly appreciated by the children.
Nirmal Krishnan — Google review
We had SO. Much. Fun. at the Lazy 5! The animals are so adorable & mostly polite about the sharing off food...took us about an hour to drive through. Definitely need 3 or four buckets of feed to enjoy passing out goodies to all the cuties! We highly recommend a visit & we'll be back!
Raina Gefvert — Google review
Bring cash! Bring cash! Bring cash!! Now that I got that out of the way as it should be posted on the main page!! We were from out of town and looking for unique things to do. Drove over an hour to find out they only accept cash and no ATM on site!! Then they send you 5 miles up to a gas station with a broken ATM. Luckily can get up to $40 cash at the Dollar General but with a purchase.
This inconvenience brought the park to 4 stars instead of 5!!
Once we got back and paid, it’s per person not per car so also be sure you understand that when you go. You also have to pay separately for buckets of feed so count that as well.
The park itself is beautiful and one of the largest I have been to of its kind. It was a lot of fun. You have to be patient. Don’t expect to speed through as a lot depends on the animals and the people driving in front of you. So if you are rushed, might not be the best place to visit. It took us a little over an hour (about 65 minutes) to go through the 3 miles (Friday afternoon) so I imagine on a weekend it could be busier.
If ever in the area would definitely visit again and take advantage of the things you can do out of the car!
Lisa Rogers — Google review
Was 1 hour and 15 minute drive to get here and worth it. Had a blast driving through with my kids today. Was busy but that did not affect our time at all. Cars moved through at a great pace. Took us about an hour or more to drive through. My kids did not seem super impressed by the walk through part but had an amazing time driving through and thought it was worth the drive.
a * — Google review
So.... I have lived in Charlotte, NC for some time now. I have kept myself, my wife and girls from one of the most fun and enjoyable place that We have experienced in some time. We spent the afternoon at Lazy 5 Ranch. Located in Mooresville, NC on 150.
The price of drive through admission was very reasonable and you must by a bucket of feed for each person in the vehicle. The fun, laughter and excitement of the animals coming right up to your vehicle is amazing and exciting.
Make it a destination point if your local or coming from out of town.
Martin Bramell — Google review
It was a fun experience. But I would warn to hang the bucket tightly outside of your car. Some animals are messier eaters than others. It's a beautiful ranch. I would love to go back. Hopefully my son won't be scared of the animals.
Chaplain Brown — Google review
We took my 9 grandchildren for a visit to the Lazy 5 Ranch on a hot Friday. Admission is charged per person, not per vehicle, as you arrive at the ranch. There are discounts for young children and seniors. They also sell buckets of animal feed at the entrance. The drive-thru safari winds around for a couple miles, and many varieties of animals that won't bite fingers will come up to the cars for food. Some, like deer and goats, will eat out of your hand. Buffalo stick their tongues way out, inviting you to pour feed on for them to swallow. When my daughter held out the bucket for a large gazelle to eat some, the gazelle grabbed the side of the bucket and jerked the whole thing out of her hand. We got a good laugh from that. The oldest grandchild, who is 13 and unimpressed with the world, got very excited about being able to pet the elk from the car windows. There were also pigs and emus, llamas and various breeds of cattle. There were zebras, but there were multiple warnings that we should not feed them - they bite. After the safari, we let the children out to play on the playground and walk through the small zoo of birds and other animals. Clean restrooms are available. I don't recall seeing any concessions for human food, but you can bring your own food to eat at picnic tables around the playground.
Catherine Pherson — Google review
This is our second time coming back & the experience is always different…in a good way!! Even with a lot of traffic there is plenty of space and different things to do but not too much that it’ll give off a carnival feel. I definitely recommend getting at least 1 or 2 buckets pp to have enough for all of the animals and dressing comfortable!! 5+ stars ⭐️
Janelle Bonner — Google review
Great Experience!! Super fun for kids of all ages. We drove through the ranch and it took us around 45 minutes. We got three buckets of food and it was enough for four adults and one child! We got to walk around and see more animals and birds. They had a concession stand with food and drinks! We will definitely be coming back soon!
Dyanna DaSilva — Google review
Great experience at Lazy 5 Ranch! Reserved a time slot a day ahead for the wagon ride with the family. It was a really great time and our tour guide, Albert, was awesome. It was very fun feeding the animals, and just fascinating to see so many species in one place. The animals are treated very well and roam free on the property. Kids love it! Pack a lunch and make it a family day! There's a playground, an ice cream shop, and gift shop on the property. Highly recommend this place!
Ed Ortega — Google review
I recommend driving an suv. I drove a sedan and felt like it was too small. The path is dirt so it has some dips in places.
The animals were bigger than I thought too.
I'd get an extra bucket of feed. The giraffes won't give you any time if you don't have food. The Buffalo were surprisingly calm.
Most of the animals are loose and surrounding your vehicle. Some of them block you on the path to ensure they get pellets. Some of the animals push others out of the way to get food. It's an interesting experience.
I also saw deer in with the park animals getting feed. That was a nice addition.
The park warns not to leave your vehicle or pet the animals. They are wild and unpredictable. It's a good experience.
Some of the animals I would have never seen otherwise. I would go back.
They also have a playground for small children.
Some of the other amenities were not open when I visited. I can't comment on them.
Lisa'rie — Google review
How great this place is! I felt like a child being able to interact with these amazing animals! PS Grab more food buckets than you think you'll need! They're big, but these animals always want more! Lol So fun!!
P Dumore — Google review
I recently visited a ranch that offers immersive experiences feeding animals and a drive-through with animals, and it was truly a memorable experience. The staff was knowledgeable and passionate about caring for the animals, and they provided us with the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of species. The drive-through allowed us to see the animals in their natural habitat, adding to the authenticity of the experience
Take note of this:
There’s a huge likelihood that your car will have scratches, debts and in our case broken tail lights, when doing the “drive through”. It’s a good experience with kids but also be prepared of the possible risks
Ino Mong — Google review
Took the wagon ride with Melissa driving, she was very good, informative and friendly. Was a good 3 hours of family time.The walk thru area was hopefully between seasons as water ponds gross, water "brook" was dry, signs need updating on cages...could improve with some effort.
Dave Gerke — Google review
Although we were misinformed, we had an amazing time. We wanted toride the wagon but was informed it has to be reserved and it was booked for the day which was not mentioned on the website also the fact its cash only not mentioned either. Found that out as we were pulling into the parking lot. But like I said, we had a wonderful time regardless.
Rotasha Snipes — Google review
We had an amazing time here. Hold on tight to your feed buckets!!! These animals are experts at acquiring your freshly filled bucket and turning it up like a cold brew. My kids loved the whole place. Well worth the trip!!!
Todd Mckenzie — Google review
Great place to take the kids. Up front, in your face, interaction with animals. I highly recommend the carriage ride versus taking your own car. It's totally worth it! The carriages take a different route and have priority over the cars. The carriage drivers are also very experienced and funny and explain each animal in detail.
Charles Clickner — Google review
Love this place! Kids and parents alike had a great time! Animals come right up to your car so think about that before you take your shiny new car through, but they also have a horse drawn wagon you can ride
The Pit Indoor Kart Racing is an entertainment hub that offers a variety of activities including go-kart racing, laser tag, mini golf, a climbing wall, arcade games and billiards. It provides an ideal venue for families to have fun and spend quality time together. The go-kart track is particularly popular among children who love the thrill of competing with each other. The facility also hosts birthday parties which are well managed by attentive party hosts.
First off, don't expect to spend just a few minutes here, plan on more than a few hours! Kids carts are FAST, and if you're 58" or taller you can ride the adult ones that are faster! With laser tag, arcade, escape rooms, axe throwing, and blacklight mini golf all indoors, this is an awesome place for an incredibly fun time! Music is great and staff is impeccable. Always on point, helpful and funny. 10 out of 10!
Kory Cox — Google review
I had an AMAZING time here!!! HIGHLY recommend. I went for my brother’s birthday party and afterwards decided I will DEFINITELY be hosting my birthday party here as well. We are both teenagers. We went go-karting, did an escape room, laser tag, had pizza, and played some of the arcade games. Special thanks to Ace for helping us at laser tag, Aiden in the escape room, and Josh at the arcade!
Zoe — Google review
Very freaking cool. My grandson had the time of his life . The staff is very accommodating and there when you need them most
Penny Mccomb — Google review
We had my sons 10th birthday party there and the party hosts were amazing! The kids had a great time and handled the group very well! I definitely recommend!
desiree poole — Google review
We went there for my grandson's birthday. Our group ranged from 4 years old to 58 years old. Everyone had fun including the adults. Great place, I highly recommend it.
Samantha Osborne — Google review
Can get very busy but we always have a great time. Sometimes you may wait to check in but considering how many activity options/fun stuff they offer it is 100% worth a little line. Kids/teens always have a blast. The escape rooms are great.
Ashley Therrell — Google review
Had a fantastic time right out of the ball park. We had fantastic staff, one girl with purple hair who made the kids feel extra special as well as the overall hustle of downstairs employees. The karts were super fast and my kids loved them! Long wait but we were notified at the registration about wait times and we chose to stick around and do our other activities in between like our lazertag, mini golf, spin zone and arcade… which you would think would’ve broken my wallets back and my own, but was extremely surprised at my total at the end. Best bang for my buck! Will be back.
Destery Smith — Google review
My children and I love going to The Pit, to have fun and spend time with dad, and they're soo competitive it's funny they always have to be in front of each other 😂
Thomas Parker — Google review
This place sounds amazing online. But in real life, it's not so nice. It could be. It just needs a little TLC. All of the pool tables were out of order. Both of the air hockey machines were out of order. Most of the arcade games we played had something wrong with them. The go carts looked fun. We never found the batting cages. Definitely a disappointment. We should have gone to Frankie's. It more expensive, but worth it.
Greg Chapmon — Google review
Clean and fun place to take my nieces and nephews! Notable mention to Scott, who seemed passionate about his job and was very kind and good with the little ones. Would come here again.
Rebekah Youngblood — Google review
Good place for fun for the kids but lines can be long even though you can sign waiver online ! A lot of activities to do ! My little girls are 8 and were scared at first when you walk in and see the older kids go karts speedind around track ! Scared them not wanting to go in but after we went upstairs to other activities they wanted to stay !
A lot of steps to go up and down !
bubby lartigue — Google review
Very pleasant experience for the entire family! Zander, Jason, Jackson and Collin were extremely helpful throughout the entire time! Will definitely be coming back!!
Arteria Torbit — Google review
This place is great they have so much to do go-karts adult/young kids and younger kids go-karts for less experienced kids. Rockwall for climbing, arcade, laser tag, axe throwing, escape rooms, mini golf and bumper cars. Great place to spend quality time with the family. Mini golf is blacklight so the kids love it. The escape rooms are great lots of different themes and hour and half hour. The go-karts were faster than I expected it was cool.
eric lancto — Google review
SO much fun and SO much to do! Go karts for kids and adults, laser tag, axe throwing, mini golf, arcade, party rooms, concessions, bumper cars, escape rooms etc. We've had many birthday parties here and have gone many times in-between just as a family. There's things for both kids and adults which makes for hours of fun! Highly recommend!
Jasmine White — Google review
Great place for a birthday celebration or just to have some fun. We took our 13 year old son and his friends there for his birthday. The indoor track is quite big and wide enough for the to really side by side race on. There are at least 2 different types of carts there, one for younger kids that go up to 35mph, which is what they rode on, and one for older teens and adults that go up to 45mph. They got to race for about 7-8 laps, and had a total blast! The talked about the race the whole way home. The birthday package also included a round of laser tag and 25 arcade tokens. The laser tag was a big hit as well. The laser tag arena was big and had a lot of great ambush spots. The arcade had a good variety of video games as well as ticket award games (skeeball, etc) to exchange for prizes. All of the facilities were very clean, well maintained, in very good operating condition, and very presentable. All of the staff we encountered were friendly, helpful, and knew what they needed to do. Kudos to the team there for all that. The kids had a great time and we as parents felt that we definitely got what we paid for. Overall it was a great experience for everyone. Highly recommended.
Eric Ransone — Google review
Brody and Kevin are awesome! They were extremely helpful and took extra care of my group! The other employees are amazing are really and made sure we had a fun time! We are definitely coming back
Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in the state, boasting an array of fish species that make it a popular attraction for families. The area offers plenty of recreational activities such as kayaking, biking, hiking, and swimming, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can also take advantage of the educational center to learn about the lake's history and its reach throughout North Carolina.
Awesome lake over 52 mi.² and 515 linear miles of shoreline. Clear water, sandy beach, islands, lovely scenery and beautiful houses.
Robert Thaxton — Google review
Love this place, it is so peaceful and the staff is incredible. Sometimes life has a way of stressing us all the way out and the remedy is to just get away and put the technology down. This place is a therapist in a box. Highly recommend no matter what your situation is.
Brandon Williams — Google review
For us this was an exploratory visit.
From Charlotte (south of the lake), Google brought us to the northern most point, where the visitors' center is located.
I expect there are other points on the lake that would be more convenient to Charlotte but going to the visitor center explained the park's main feature is the bike trails (Hiking too, I guess).
Visitor center: gift shop & public restrooms.
No entry fee.
No parking fee.
Picnic areas, some with BBQ pits, for family sized group. Larger areas for organized events also available (reservations may be required).
Canoe & paddle board rentals.
Nearby boat ramp available.
Peter Erickson — Google review
Place is absolutely beautiful. Great place to hang out. Been here a lot, so it’s definitely worth it. Other than the water getting dirty at times, it’s a great destination to hang out. Weather sometimes gets on your nerves, but that with everything that goes on. Definitely coming back here for my next visit.
Ice Time — Google review
It truly is our own Inland Sea. Grew up on the shores of LKN and now spend just about every weekend March through September on the lake. Absolutely the best sunsets around.
Neal Young — Google review
Wow! This lake is a perfect slice of paradise smack dab in the middle of North Carolina. Great for boaters, swimmers, or just chilling on a quiet dock somewhere. The water is murky green and you can’t really see to the bottom, and there are small leeches in the clay that’ll attach to your feet and legs, so there’s all that. The Duke Nukem power plant pulls water from Lake Norman to cool off the reactor, which I’ve heard heats the water a bit in the South end. Pretty sure it’s not radioactive but I didn’t bring my Geiger counter. If this place ever goes Three Mile Island, those million dollar homes will be worthless, so rent, and enjoy the lake while you can. Watch out for Normie the Lake Monster. Reports say you’ll see him if you have too many beers.
Chuck Fresh — Google review
Great family place. Kayaking, biking, hiking, or swimming, or camping you name it. You can do it all at Lake Norman.
You can visit the educational center to learn all about the Lake and how far it extends throughout the state.
Walk through the trails, and dip your feet in the water.
Sevor Klu — Google review
Beautiful hike! My husband and I took the Lake Shore Trail to the 2.5 mile point and then cut to the short trail (it was hot and we didn't have enough water)
The trail is natural and in a few spots not really well marked. Roots and rocks make it important to watch your step.
We saw lots of spiders, a black snake and squirrels, but its the trees that really make it! The canopy gets really thick and the path shaded.
We can't wait to go back!
Caryn Bennett — Google review
Beautiful lake with tons to do.
We went kayaking in the sunrise and sunset. Enjoyed both experiencea. Then we went out on a baot with the whole family. You can stop on islands or the state park and a have a wonderful day out in the nature.
The Children's Museum Discovery Place Kids-Huntersville is an interactive museum for kids that features exhibits in various themed areas and live shows. The center is at the forefront of STEM education in North Carolina, with little activities to keep children busy while they explore the museum.
Went here with my sister and her kids. We had a great time here and I loved watching the kids enjoy themselves. There is so much to do and it's all so educational. I loved the little Cafe area. The rock wall was also a favorite. The underwater room was super cool. The upstairs portion has things they can build and race. I loved experiencing the smaller scale Discovery Place that was truly geared towards educational fun! I would definitely recommend going here and taking your children. You'll enjoy it just as much as them. They also have a program where if you get food stamps you can get in for less than $5 a person! It's something different than the park you always go to and like I said...educational. The kids loved the water area as well. Perfect for a cheap fun rainy day activity!!
Lauren Williams — Google review
Discovery Place Kids in Huntersville is an absolute gem for families seeking an enriching and enjoyable experience. From the moment you step inside, the vibrant atmosphere and engaging activities captivate both children and parents alike. Here's why this place deserves all the stars!
1. Interactive Exhibits: The heart of Discovery Place Kids lies in its interactive exhibits. From the miniature town where kids can explore different professions to the hands-on science experiments, every corner sparks curiosity and creativity. Children can unleash their imagination while learning about the world around them.
2. Educational Programs: The educational programs offered here are top-notch. Whether it's a themed workshop, a STEM-based activity, or a storytelling session, each program is designed to ignite young minds and foster a love for learning. The staff members are knowledgeable and passionate, making every session both informative and fun.
3. Safe Environment: Safety is paramount at Discovery Place Kids. The facility is meticulously maintained, and the staff ensures a clean and secure environment for children to play and learn. Parents can relax knowing that their little ones are in good hands while they explore the various exhibits and activities.
4. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: What sets Discovery Place Kids apart is its inclusive environment for families. Parents are encouraged to participate in the activities alongside their children, fostering a sense of togetherness and bonding. It's not just a place for kids to play – it's a space where families can create lasting memories together.
5. Birthday Parties and Events: Discovery Place Kids offers fantastic options for birthday parties and special events. Imagine celebrating your child's birthday surrounded by friends and family in a dynamic, educational setting. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that every event is memorable and stress-free for both children and parents.
6. Membership Benefits: For families who frequent Discovery Place Kids, a membership offers incredible value. With unlimited access to exhibits, discounts on programs and events, and exclusive member-only perks, it's a fantastic investment in your child's education and entertainment.
In conclusion, Discovery Place Kids in Huntersville is more than just a children's museum – it's a haven for exploration, discovery, and family fun. With its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and welcoming atmosphere, it's no wonder families keep coming back for more. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting the area, a trip to Discovery Place Kids is an experience you won't soon forget. Highly recommended for kids of all ages!
Doren Tripp — Google review
Great place to play with the family. They have little activities with kids here and there. Place is pretty spacious and we did not have a problem bumping into other kids or families. We’ll definitely have to keep coming here 😊
Homes in Charlotte Rodolfo Duq REALTOR — Google review
Good place to take the kids for fun. A little pricey for what they offer especially that that many exhibits/experiences are defect/not functioning. The sound at the show (dental show - book reading) was too loud and not clear. Not very clean and not well maintained. Pretty hot inside.
Bogdan Dusa — Google review
My 6 and 4 year old had a great time here on a Saturday. We've been to other children museums and they voted this one as they're favorite. The museum was clean and easy to navigate. Many activities for young children.
Elizabeth Alfaro-Garcia — Google review
Great place to let young kids run and learn. My 2 year old grandson can't get enough of this place. So many things to do. Definitely buy your tickets in advance online. It saves $3 a ticket.
Rick Hackett — Google review
My daughter and I got there early and it was nice, but soon after it got very busy and crowded. Other kids were allowed to roam without supervision so my daughter and I left. There was a nice place to stop and eat the lunch I brought with us.
Katie Thompson — Google review
My kids loved this place and didn’t want to leave! Great variety of activities to spark their imaginations and build their thinking skills while playing. We could have stayed the entire day if we had brought our own lunch. We brought light snacks and this place only has vending machines. If they added a small cafe this place would easily be five stars for me!
Brittanni Bowers — Google review
6 a fun and interactive place for kids of all ages. My four-year-old twins in my 20 month old absolutely enjoyed. My 14 year old even enjoyed it as well. She jumped right in with the younger kids. It had fun at the water tables. I love being able to go grocery shopping. Check on pets, act like a doctor, and just have fun crying when we Had to leave.
Lydia Turner — Google review
Awesome place located downtown Huntersville. Reminded me of wanna do city in south Florida.. many different jobs and kids just be kids. The price for it was cheap also. They even have an arts and crafts section even puppet time. Well done great way for kids to use their imagination
Ryan Mcclinton — Google review
Came here on a Saturday after hours for a kids' birthday party. I have never been and didn't really know what to expect. It's basically like a bigger version of a park for kids. They have a big play area, but the stations are more tailored to everyday things. For example, they have a grocery store, a post office, a doctors office, etc...where kids can just play and pretend to be a doctor, a cashier, firemen, etc. They have a water station, which I believe is for sensory play and a state where they do presentations and experiments. Overall, this is a great place for kids 8 and under.
Jennifer — Google review
Our daughter had come here on a school trip, and she loved it, and asked to come back. I thought it was a nice facility, as it seemed well run and clean. They have A LOT of different things to do for kids of all ages. I highly recommend spending an afternoon here with the little ones
Mark Henry — Google review
Seriously the coolest place!!! My kids could've spent all day here!! My almost 2 year old and 5 year old had so much fun!! Lots of stuff to do for both ages. It's definitely pricey (almost $50 for 3 of us). Parking is easy in the parking deck next door. I bought our tickets online. We went on a Friday and got there around 10:30 and had to wait in line to get in. But the kids had a blast and we can't wait to go back!!
bethany sweatt — Google review
we had a blast as usual. There’s a bug going around! So be sure to wash your hands!
R.B. Lockwood — Google review
Awesome place for kids took both my boys there and they absolutely loved it. It was hard to try and leave Lol they didn’t want to go. I highly recommend this place for kids. It’s a lot to do there and it’s so much excitement and fun.
W A — Google review
Ok, so kids love this place. It's a great way to spend an hour or so, especially if weather is bad. My childrens favorite is the grocery store and restaurant that's well put together and well done. A couple caveats: we got there right when it opened and they are cleaning the exhibits. They close them down whilst cleaning. I'm all about germs not being everywhere but just getting in the place and not being able to visit a spot is frustrating for the amount you pay for this place. Perhaps consider cleaning Before opening? 🤔 Also you're not supposed to sit on the cow, lol. Everyone who passes hoists their child up there to sit. A sign may deter this behavior but I guess its just part of our nature to want to sit upon a fake cow. 😅
H Monty — Google review
We had a lot of fun but there was a lot of mess. Parents not teaching kids to follow the rules ruining the fun for others.
Sci Mcfalls — Google review
Definitely a great place to bring the kids. It's big enough to let a couple hours go by and while they play. It's modular in the fact that every few steps has something new to engage in, whether it's arts and crafts, an aquatic themed room, a fire truck, and a variety of other things. You as the parent might even have fun with a thing or two there.
Park featuring a reservoir, picnic shelters, horseshoes, paved trails, fishing, boating & more.
Brilliant, wide open park with a giant lake surrounded completely by a paved shoreline walkway. Numerous benches, a long bridge and several nice fishing piers are featured. Great place to walk your dog and picnicking spots abound. One whole side of the park is flanked by a sprawling swamp where access is wisely forbidden and well posted. Would be extremely peaceful were it not for the loud gunfire emanating from the firing range across the swamp.
mark johnson — Google review
Folks, we are lucky to have a place like this so close. A very nice 1.5 mile paved walking track, with a beautiful continuous view of the lake and all of the things of nature that come with it. You can watch the eagles fly, the ducks playing on top of the water. You can see fish swimming and an occasional harmless banded water snake. Even deer are present at the park sometimes. This is a pet friendly park, and they have stations that supply bags to pick up poop that comes from your pet (please pick up after your dog). A nice playground for the kids, that includes a zip-line, just a great place to spend some relaxing time.
Craig Fincher — Google review
Beautiful park with paved walking paths that is dog friendly. It also has a kids' playset and a small amphitheater-esque area for meditation or yoga.
Erin Miller — Google review
Park is really beautiful and great for our county! Nice place for a picnic with friends and family. Clean, well-maintained, and usually staff are present. I would recommend the park to anyone whether you are fishing, walking, playing disc golf, canoeing or paddle boating, or just relaxing watching the children play on the new playground. The Zipline is a wonderful addition I had to give it a try myself and must say I felt like a kid again.
Mike Henderson — Google review
My family recently had a picnic near the lake at this park. This is a beautiful and very clean location. It was a plus the restrooms were very close to us. It was very hot day, but the occasional wind blowing off the lake and the water fight kept us cool. I will definitely return. We had an amazing time. I appreciate the park employees being very attentive.
sharla bridges — Google review
Nice little park with a paved trail around the lake. Pavillions were well maintained.
Justin Redemann — Google review
Beautiful lake and walk around it has so many views and things to do. We just walked around the park for the exercise and beauty. They have fishing areas, rental boats on weekends in the fall, pavilions, disc golf, bathrooms, grills at pavilions and horseshoe pits. I am not the biggest fan of Gastonia but this is a gem in the rough.
Wendy Jackson — Google review
My kids really enjoyed the lake and the playground. The atmosphere was very relaxing. I can not wait until we return.
Brea W — Google review
Super nice place! Get place for a run, walk, kayaking, canoeing, etc. Dog friendly too. Great views. Very safe. Highly recommend this place. We will be back.
Patrick Murphy — Google review
Beautiful park to go on a walk!! Stunning lake views and you can see a pretty cool sunset at golden hour! I keep coming back here all year long.
Mery M — Google review
This a beautiful lake with lots of spots to fish. There are Small/Large Mouth Bass, Brim (Sunfish) and Crappie. Did not see a boat launch, but did overhear someone discussing bringing their kayak on occasion. There is a well defined path to walk around the lake if you choose too. Will definitely bring the family again.
Darryl Pittman — Google review
Peaceful, a nice place to relax and/or go fishing. Very pleasant experience.
Yessenia Nazario — Google review
I like to come here for a quick motivating run. Nice ring around the lake, over a mile. Nice to walk as well. Has places to sit, fish and a play ground. Gorgeous in the fall. People are friendly and give greeting! Has a lot of green space for a picnic. There are grills also on site.
L McGuire — Google review
Rankin Lake State Park is a beautiful and serene park that offers various outdoor activities. The park is well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The lake is perfect for fishing and paddling, boating, kayaking, and the hiking trails offer picturesque views of the surrounding nature.
We rented a motor boat and we only paid 10 dollars for an hour and that’s really affordable.
Ino Mong — Google review
He loved the zipline. I had an adrenaline rush from it and the spinning chair lol
Megan Parker — Google review
Very calm quiet and picturesque for walks. Chance upon some fish, ducks, turtles, or geese and dragonfly, or like us a crayfish while chatting with your mate, just makes it better!!!
Thomas Beringer — Google review
Such a beautiful park and lake, but I didn't realize the shooting range was right next door. Shots were going off the entire time we walked around the lake. My dog wasn't having it. I would definitely go back during the hours the range isn't open.
Morgan Holben — Google review
This is a nice park with easy walking paths and some pretty, peaceful scenery.
SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, situated in the Concord Mills Mall, offers a diverse range of family-friendly exhibits featuring an array of sea creatures. These exhibits provide play areas and group packages for added convenience. With over 5,000 underwater creatures including jellyfish, clown fish, green moray eels, octopus, triggerfish, and various sharks, visitors can explore more than 20 themed showcases that mirror North Carolina's natural surroundings.
I had a great time! Reasonable price for 6 hours of aquarium time! Walk-through took about 45 minutes at a slow-casual pace. Beautifully themed displays, fish, jellies, and turtles live in close up exhibits. A touch pool lets you touch urchins and sea stars. Gift shop at the end had a lot of varied choices for souvenirs.
Tracy Rudzinski — Google review
We went here while we were on vacation. Very busy place. It was just us two adults with no kids. We really enjoyed it, it was smaller than most aquariums we have been to, but the price was good and we did enjoy it. They did have several different species they are trying to save. Very informative if you read the information provided. The staff were friendly and actually seemed to like their jobs.
Jami Clark — Google review
I had a birthday party here for my son. It was really nice. Staff was nice they even set up the party room. It was a little pricey but well worth it. They let you bring your own food unlike most places. My guests had a good time. I would definitely recommend it.
Octavia Lindsay — Google review
Wonderful little aquarium. Very nicely done. Neat tunnel and varying views of large tanks. You could buzz thru quickly, but we spent a couple hours really watching everything. They do have an intractive touch tank as well. We were surprised it was located at a mall, but that made it very convenient.
Marla Bingham-Connelly — Google review
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE!!!!
Please do not judge this place by what you see from the outside. Not that the outside is in bad shape or anything, but you would think that there's not a lot to see............you would be wrong!!
This is a very informative, colorful, and clean aquarium. You can tell that the sea life is well cared for and that the habitat encourages growth and comfort.
I actually came for Beasley but found so much more. I definitely recommend for children, family and friends, and even an evening date. I can't imagine this place will disappoint. ESPECIALLY THE TUNNEL!!!
I hope you enjoy the pictures and videos. This place is as cool as it looks.
PS - If you time your visit right, you can watch them feed throughout the aquarium.
Romeo Brown — Google review
It is a nice day out place with kids. Mu daughter loved being in the aquarium and collecting fun stamps at each exhibition. Nice full filled day activity for parents and kids. Must visit.
ritika razdan — Google review
Was a great time for the family and kids! They have quite a lot packed in and some pretty amazing aquatic life. We had a great time, and the costs were not excessive, especially considering it kept us busy for hours. Would absolutely recommend for a family afternoon out if you are looking for something fun and educational for your friends and family.
A+
Daniel Farrow — Google review
So much fun! We got there closer to close than I would've liked, but the staff was so friendly and helpful. We got to see brand new baby seahorses and there was a super friendly looking puffer fish. We loved the tunnel!
Heather Ball — Google review
Great experience but the cost should be much lower for the size. We paid more here to visit that many other aquariums that were double and triple the size. As for the variety of sea life and staff, they were above and beyond. I also like how they provided extra education activities for younger ages. A great 30 to 40 minute activity with a younger child.
A Spice Below the Horizon — Google review
Had a great time. It took about an hour to walk through everything, but you could return at any point during the day. We also did the behind the scenes tour and the host, Matt, was great. He also interacted with the adults and kids in the group. Amanda was amazing at answering questions. We bought the VIP picture pass and it was definitely worth it.
Hades Daughter — Google review
Little pricey for as small as it is. I was not expecting it to be in a mall. Can get crowded in a heartbeat with little wiggle room to see anything or to get away. They do let you go through as many times as you want, so that helps, some. They have a tunnel which is cool but the lighting isn't set up well, so it's not easy to tell what you are looking at sometimes.
I did NOT realize this was geared directly at kids. My bad for not doing more research but it's super kid friendly, which means it's not adult friendly in terms of viewing or moving around. Also, by kid friendly, I mean exhausted parents that don't give AF what their kids are doing, which is screaming, yelling, tapping glass, shoving each other, crying and running.
So yeah, I just wanted out of our Airbnb on a rainy day and thought a visit to an aquarium would be cool. It wasn't as awesome as I hoped. But hey, floaty-butt turtles always make any day better.
Vee — Google review
We had our daughters' birthday party here on Friday! It was an amazing experience for all that came! The room was beautiful! The staff was great! Highly recommend Sea Life for a fun unique birthday party experience!
Jennifer Harper — Google review
An absolute must for kids!!! Everything is their height, 100% interactive displays, hidden portholes and the Junior Range kit keeps them engaged looking closely to really appreciate the different species. We did the behind the scenes tour and learned a lot. Staff are all top notch. Worth every dollar. Went with grandma and my 5 year old son and they were both beyond thrilled.
Adrienne Hand — Google review
Some very nice exhibits but it is very small for the price.
There is a nice kid’s area and some good pop up spots for viewing fish. The tunnel is short but has many creatures swimming overhead.
Rachel Parton — Google review
We visited while we were in town for the holiday weekend. SeaLife was fantastic and they had a lot of aquatic life. We loved our time there. Unfortunately, we went on the busiest shopping day of the year, so getting out of the parking lot was a nightmare. Would recommend visiting on any other day though.
Jill T — Google review
My husband and I are both in our 20’s without kids and we were pleasantly surprised by this aquarium! They had a good amount of different animals including stingrays, sharks, fish, turtles, and many more. We were able to touch starfish and sea urchins. I enjoyed the turtle rehab section where we could see a turtle who was rescued from the ocean because he was stranded and injured. They had a cool tunnel you could walk through to see the animals as well. This was a great experience for the price!
Rachel Beatty — Google review
Sea Life was nice. We were hoping it was a longer undersea stroll but the location is probably the reason. All the exhibits were breath taking.
I'm not sure but I was trying to add a video. I was trying to show an exhibit where it looked like skinny snakes poking out of sand trying to get the small fish. It was so amazing to watch. I can't seem to show.
Jackie Hoyle — Google review
Went there with a group of people, and it was a blast. I loved the little shipwreck they had and we loved doing the stamps. Even though it was a great experience overall, it was kind of short. But yet again not surprising since it's in a mall. It's a great place to go to with kids or to go to on a day out.
Ray — Google review
How delightful to have an aquarium within the Concord Mills mall! We're not from the area and I love aquariums so this was a pleasant surprise. I was really impressed with the size of the aquarium itself and everything it has to offer. They have a touch pool which is fun for kids and adults alike. They have an underwater tunnel which is exciting. I think the porcupine fish might've been my favorite. He was huge! Highly recommend and will visit again.
Deanna White — Google review
My family and I visited a beautiful place over the weekend. An aquarium where you can see unusual bright fish. Electric skates, sharks, moray eels, sea stars and much more. There is a petting pool where you can touch starfish. It's unusual and interesting. Come see this beauty. Lots of useful stuff.
vika rup4eva — Google review
My wife and I went here while we were in the area on our honeymoon. It was fascinating to observe the creatures up close. We developed several favorites. Personally, I enjoyed watching the stingrays, sharks, and the fish that tirelessly dug holes in the sand. The staff, notably Greer, whom we spoke with, was exceptionally helpful, polite, and informative.
Zulu — Google review
Took a school trip here with my Grandson, first time we visited. The experience was a very good one. My Grandson who's 5 really enjoyed the exhibits. It's a beautiful place, takes about 30-40 mins to go thru and see everything. The staff was really friendly and very helpful.
Gee Crowder — Google review
Bought our tickets in advance, and it was easy. There is plenty of parking and easy to find. It is attached to Concord Mills Mall. Staff was super friendly and awesome. Plenty of sealife to see and interact with. I highly recommend checking this place out if in the area.
MAC — Google review
For being a small aquarium in a mall, they have several fish and even a cute rehabilitation tank that currently is hosting Beasley. It was really cute and had a lot of exhibits in it, surprisingly, including an interactive touch pool. My nephews enjoyed it, smallest barely wanted to leave. I would definitely recommend it for younger kids or people who love sea life in general.
Khadijah Surratt — Google review
It is bigger than I expected it and they’ve done a great job with this aquarium. Organize, clean, different fishes. Easy to navigate. Pretty good size, not too big or too small. The staff were polite.
I went Friday at 12pm and there were only two more families at the time so it was a great experience.
Once you buy tickets you can leave and get back inside as many times as you want. At least that’s what they told us on this date.
Veronica — Google review
Very neat stuff here. Staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. Just wish it was a longer attraction for the money. The kids enjoyed it but I don't see this being a "season pass" type attraction.
Eddie Varh — Google review
When I saw this aquarium was located in a mall I had low expectations. I could not have been more incorrect. Not only was this location large enough to entertain adults for an hour, but they have an ocean tunnel, in a mall! The facility was well kept, the tanks were all large and not overcrowded, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Plus it was affordable. 10/10 would recommend checking it out while you're in the area. Then you can go shopping in the mall, knowing you're in the same building with fun things like sharks, eels, and jellyfish 💛
Nainsi McK — Google review
Sea Life Charlotte-Concord is an incredible little place. I worked with several staff members (Kaitlin, Jasmine, and Erin) who treated me like royalty to make for a very VERY special night.
I was able to set up a beautiful proposal and evening and they helped at every step. They set up special lights and stayed open a little late to help make this magical moment happen.
The aquarium itself is very nice. The decorations are perfect (lots of pirate decor) and the flow from room to room makes the aquarium feel five times bigger than it actually is.
I am forever grateful to the lovely people that helped me propose to my wonderful partner. And I will be back many times to enjoy both the aquarium and the memories made that evening.
Richard Cameron — Google review
An aquarium that's:
1. In the mall
2. Has a touch tank
3. Has a scavenger hunt and other kid activities
4. Has an awesome gift shop
5. Excellent staff
Yep... Take my money!
John Harley — Google review
4.2
(3695)
•
4.0
(530)
8111 Concord Mills Boulevard, Concord, NC 28027, USA
The Charlotte Motor Speedway is a highly-rated, 138,000 seat stadium which hosts NASCAR races as well as other events. It's also home to a drag racing track and other attractions.
We did the drive through fan experience and it was way better than you would imagine from their website description. The history of the track was great and we got to drive and walk on the track and stop in the winners circle as well as the start/ finish line. It was pretty awesome!
angie b ramirez — Google review
Very nice and updated track, huge! Seating is bench seating with looonnggg benches, so if you are seated in the middle grab your food and go potty before sitting down, it is nearly impossible to slid back out. Be prepared for the children, this track offers $10 child tickets, so if you are not kid friendly, you may want to skip this one. Otherwise, great food & bars on site, plenty of bathrooms, and handicapped accessibility. Overall a great track!
Marsha Shelton — Google review
We went here with a group from our neighborhood for lunch and a tour. Lunch was wonderful, but the tour was awesome! We were driven on the track and took a fast and furious drive around the turns!
So much fun! If you ever have the chance to do this tour, do it!
Cruisejunkie — Google review
Christmas lights at the speedway were wonderful. Although the wait was nearly 4 hours, once we made it to the lights it was like we never even waited. Such a magical experience with lots of effort put into setting up the lights, the music, everything. Great way to celebrate Christmas imo
Lucy Beattie — Google review
I absolutely LOVED this track. It was my first experience with a Nascar event and I enjoyed every moment! It was a bit confusing getting to my seat but the staff was very helpful.
Parking was complicated. The people directing traffic sent us to an RV park and we drove in circles for 20 minutes trying to get out. It was 20$ once we found a place to park.
As always, I want more vegan options but the atmosphere was decent and the patrons were diverse and kind.
SaBreena Lovelady — Google review
My husband and son loved their birthday/graduation/Christmas presents. They did the tide along with an experienced driver followed by driving the cars all by themselves. They absolutely loved it. I've never seen them smile so big. They are still coming down off their high. I scored big brownie points.
Iceblue Eyes — Google review
Visited the Speedway for the Xtreme Xperience and all I can say is wow! There was also a similar NASCAR drive event happening there at the same time so it was great to hear the real sounds associated with stock car racing while simultaneously experiencing the high speed / exotic cars we were there to drive! Ventured to the restrooms while there and was pleasantly surprised how clean they were.
N Garland — Google review
Great track to watch a race. Went to see the 2022 Coca-Cola 600 & 2022 Alsco 300 Great signage inside and out. Lots of food choices including food trucks inside the track. Now parking was a nightmare. Even had prepaid parking but no one directing traffic into lots.
James Scott — Google review
Went to the Arca and truck race.. both were awesome and good seats. Food is way overpriced and even water. Some places were selling water for $5-$10 outrageous. So bring your own and pick up food before, and they did not accept cash for anythingthing in the gates, so it was card only
Derrick H. — Google review
The speedway is spectacular and to talk about The Bank of America ROVAL 400. It is an unforgettable experience filled with energy and adrenaline. The race lasts just over 3 hours with 109 laps, each featuring 17 thrilling turns. Watching the cars zoom by is exhilarating, and the engine sounds are unique. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; it's perfect for family outings, hanging out with friends, or even a memorable first date. It's an experience that will stay with you forever.
S Kandra — Google review
We attended the holiday lights festival. The kids, especially the younger ones, really enjoyed it. The adults enjoyed driving on the track. We arrived at 6pm on a Monday night and only waited in line for about 15mins to enter.
Brad Kosar — Google review
We went to see Christmas decorations. The entrants cost is 45 $ per car. And its a bit much for the light show that we saw. There are some nice lights decorations and there're very simple one. They have a village Christmas lights in the middle where you can walk, grilled smorth on fire. And there's a shop you can buy different things. Also you can buy snacks.
There's a screen you can watch a movie seating in a car.
Elena Makoviy — Google review
Ford Driving Experience is amazing, you get to drive in the Oval and eat dinner in the VIP box.
Daniel Germain — Google review
The autofair/swap meet was not worth the 6hr ride .. alot of really nice cars 8n the car show --made up for it....
Jeff Justus — Google review
Went to see the Christmas light show. It was amazing. Definitely a must see if you have kids. They will enjoy it. Afterwards you can park and watch a Christmas movie or walk through the Christmas village. It's a fun holiday family night.
Pat Elenowitz — Google review
My husband and grandson got the Richard Petty driving experience. My husband drove a car and my grandson did a ride along. They had a blast!!!
Leatrice McDaniel — Google review
I was invited by my sponsor Blackpearlshowboards along with Mr Ed. It was Mustang 6oth Anniversary. We were right outside the Pavillion Auto Show Case. Joey Logano his family and dad all came back and saw Black Beauty. I autographed pictures for Joey Logano kids. Now I can mark that off my bucket list
Teresa McDaniel — Google review
The whole facility around CMS is top tier. I love this track especially for the Coke 600 on Labor Day Weekend. It’s one of NASCAR’s most iconic tracks and I always enjoy spending a weekend here. The whole track area is laid out very nicely and we even found a great area for parking! The fan zone and fan experience is amazing as well. Overall Charlotte is one of the best NASCAR Tracks to visit for a race weekend.
Frank Liske Park is a popular recreational area in Concord, NC that offers picnic pavilions, athletic fields, mini-golf and a boating lake for fishing. The park also boasts of a nature playground with unique play structures such as giant worm balance beams and honeycomb climbing structures. Visitors can also explore wooded areas but need to be cautious of poison ivy. Overall, Frank Liske Park provides an excellent outdoor experience for families looking to have fun under the sun.
It's a nice park, long trails for walking. There's a lake in the middle of the park. I enjoy seating here and looking at ducks and geese. There are a lot of squirrels. Also you can find places for barbecue and sport areas as well. You can spend a lovely day with your family there.
Elena Makoviy — Google review
We live less than a mile from this park so we are here quite often… It is fantastic! Wonderful walking trails, dog friendly, multiple playgrounds and family shelter/picnic facilities throughout, a lake with paddle boats, a massive soccer/softball complex, mini golf, disc golf course… The list goes on. The park is well-maintained and the restrooms are always clean and in good order. Highly recommended.
Greg Chisom — Google review
On a hot June day we wanted to give the kids a place to play outside in the Concord NC area. Upon arrival at Frank Liske Park we quickly found the play area. With the high June sunshine the sunscreen over the play structure was fantastic. After playing on the play structure they moved to the nature playground. Here concrete turns into a giant worm balance beam, a honeycomb is a climbing structure, a cave with “crystals” as a tunnel. Logs are set up for a fort. Overall the kids had a fun hour of play before we had to leave. They was still a lot let to see but our time did not allow. One thing to be careful of is the poison ivy in the wooded area by the nature playground.
Jason Brandt — Google review
This is such a beautiful park with a huge open space for many activities. We were able to reserve one of the Pavillions for several hours for our event and it was perfect. Since this area is used for shows and performances, there are benches running across that we were able to use for additional seating for those that did not bring their chairs.
T Brazz — Google review
Beautiful park; well kept & maintained. There's a lake & I think I saw paddle boats too. Plenty if shelters to use to hang out or for cookouts. Playgrounds for the kids, baseball fields, a mini sandbox for a game of volleyball, and even some holes to golf. The park is big enough that even when it seems full (i.e. a lot of people) everything is spaced out enough that you're not on top of each other! I don't live on this side of town and not really the type to go to parks: however, I'll definitely come back to this one.
Liam Golzar — Google review
This park is so beautiful and spacious, golf, tennis, volleyball, fishing and paddle boats they even have spaces for rental for different venues. Definitely my happy place to walk, or just sit in the sun 🌞 and meditate! You can also feed the ducks 🦆
elaine britt — Google review
One of our more recent favorite parks to visit. Lots of trail walking and variety of parks for smaller and older children. Has duck feeding stations as well. Nice walk around the water. And, if you’re into geochaching have a few of those there as well.
Alona Lit — Google review
This park is absolutely lovely. People bring their dogs but they keep them on leashes unless they're really good. It's huge. They have a miniature golf area you can rent paddle boats kayaks and canoes. There are several playgrounds for the children in several areas for cookouts with friends and family. There's also plenty of space for picnics. They also have frisbee golf. There are plenty of restrooms but they are far and few in between
Mo H (Monie360) — Google review
Very nice park. I usually walk the 2 mile track (which is partially covered with trees - great for the summer heat)!
The grounds are very well maintained all year around - if you’re looking for a shorter walk, there’s a nice (gravel) path around the lake!
I haven’t tried the pedal boats or rental canoes yet, but that is something I may do the next time I have visitors!
Would recommend!
Sean M — Google review
We had a birthday party for my two year old twin grandsons on Saturday. The park was beautiful and the facilities very well maintained. The playground was great for the kids which were ages 1 1/2 to 4. The grass and the lake were beautiful. There were lots of people there, but it did not seem crowded at all. I highly recommend a day in the park for anyone.
Sandy Rogers — Google review
Beautiful park with plenty to do for the entire family. There’s several playgrounds with a sand box & volleyball, you can also rent out inside newly build space for graduation parties … the pond has fish and paddle boats with the ducks to entertain 😂
Lady Storm — Google review
Great park within the city limits.
Park offers walking trails, lake walk trails, open gym, Frisbee golf course, Cabarrus party hall, Barbecue pits
Sujit Kanna — Google review
Very pleasant park with a good walking trail, and picnic areas. Good playgrounds, very clean, and safe. Has a mini golf course for the kids. A lot of open space. I saw people walking their dogs here as well. Great for families!
Ed Ortega — Google review
Having lived in the Harrisburg area for some 13 years, I've visited Frank Liske Park on hundreds of occasions. In that time, the Cabarrus County parks department has done a wonderful job maintaining and improving this recreational gem. It offers miles of walking trails, reservable picnic shelters, disc golf and miniature golf courses, pickleball and tennis courts – all surrounding a beautiful lake. A new silo/monument and barn facility (replacing the ones that were destroyed by fire) were completed in 2023 and can be reserved for a variety of family and group activities. If you live nearby, this park is definitely worth visiting.
The Machine Photography — Google review
One of the best parks in cabarrus county. Beautiful lakes where you can ride paddle boats. Long walking trails where you can jog and take in the fresh air. Spacious shelters you can rent for parties. This park has it all! Highly recommend for all folks that live close by to come enjoy nature near you!
The Bank of America Stadium is a football stadium located in uptown Charlotte, North Carolina and home to the NFL's Carolina Panthers. The 75,523-seat stadium has been designed specifically for NFL football and features luxurious boxes and an open-air grass field. The stadium also has a large tailgating area which makes it popular with fans of all teams.
Overall my experience was good. I am Atlanta fan and came to the opening game where Charlotte FC played LA Galaxy. Good atmosphere. Looking forward to more games here.
The only negative: need better security at the gates when coming in and fixing the lines. I think this will come in time as they handle big games.
David Firestine — Google review
As far as NFL stadiums go, I would put BOA in the middle of the pack as far as how nice it is. We have been here for a few events the last couple of years and always have a good time. There are lots of food options in the concourse to choose from as well as plenty of drink options. Our last visit we were up in the suite section, which is really nice. Everything up there is air conditioned and we had everything catered for food and drinks, which made everything pretty easy and quick. I would always recommend getting a Bojangles box, it is worth the money more than anything in the stadium.
Steven Beecher — Google review
Haven't had a bad experience here. I think I've been twice and both times were great. Entry is simple and quick, in my experience. Plenty of resources, the bathrooms are clean and sufficient, and the seating is good. Definitely recommend for whatever events people may be looking to attend.
jeremy kilgore — Google review
A clean and stunning stadium in downtown Charlotte. The city skyline made for a beautiful backdrop; especially when all the lights started coming on. The staff were friendly and helpful. There were a few unruly fans in our section and security did a great job diffusing the situation and kept everyone around from being interrupted from watching the game. The food selection was beyond amazing. The souvenir cup for free refills is definitely worth it. A great stadium to enjoy a game!
H Caballero — Google review
I came here for the Panthers Bucs Game. It was with some family friends and it was my first ever NFL game. The atmosphere here is amazing and they have a really nice stadium and everything. They lost 10-3 but it was alright. I was in one of the sections near the scoreboard but still they were great seats and saw a lot. Wasn’t terrible coming in or leaving and it was a fun game and fun experience. I’m a NY Giants fan but I’d certainly go to another panthers game knowing I’m from Durham and it’s not terribly far
Team 7 Channel — Google review
We had a great time visiting the Bank of America Stadium as we saw Charlotte FC’s first inaugural home game! It was well worth the visit as we enjoyed the experience and how friendly everyone was! I’ll definitely come back to check out another game here in the future!
Daniel Duran — Google review
What a great experience, very easy to navigate, each employee was friendly, very clean & so well set up. I mostly appreciated the escalators lol! The Stadium is HUGE & great for many types of venues. It's very easy to get to from the interstate & parking was expensive but not bad for the walk. I didn't see much security in the Stadium as I did outside, I may have just missed them, but I never felt unsafe.
Melinda Frye — Google review
Home of the roaring Panthers and the cheers of their loyal fans 🏈🐾 Welcome to Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina! 🌟 #PantherNation #CharlotteNC #FootballSeason
This stadium is located in the heart of uptown Charlotte. The seating is comfortable and offers great sightlines of the field. They offered a variety of food and beverage options, from classic stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos to more upscale options like BBQ and craft beer. Lines can get long, especially during peak game times, so it is advisable to arrive early or plan accordingly.
The stadium also offers a variety of amenities, including a team store, a Panthers Hall of Honor, and a kid’s zone. The team store offers a wide selection of merchandise, from jerseys and hats to unique souvenirs. The Hall of Honor is a great way to learn about the history of the Carolina Panthers and the NFL. The kid’s zone offers a variety of fun activities for children, including inflatable games and a climbing wall.
One of the unique features of Bank of America Stadium is the ability to take a tour of the stadium. Tour guides take visitors through the stadium, including the locker rooms, press box, and field. The tours are informative and provide a behind-the-scenes look at the stadium.
Dixon — Google review
Beautiful stadium with plenty to eat and drink. Prices here were very good - I had a 5-piece chicken tender with a refillable cup for around $20.
Brandon Carraway — Google review
First time here 12/24- Packers vs Panthers. We got to the stadium early. Nice Stadium and Great Atmosphere! Staff was very friendly and helpful! We were in Section 542 with many other Packers fans. The seats were comfortable! Plenty of options for beverages and food. Really enjoyed the Packers vs Panthers game! 💚💛💚💛
Tracy Berthelson — Google review
My son and I were in attendance for the Charlotte FC inaugural home match. The stadium is a very nice venue, especially considering it's age. Entry into the stadium was extremely quick. Traffic was very slow near the stadium. We parked in a garage across from the stadium. We won't make that mistake again, but will plan a little better and just walk a few blocks to the stadium.
Overall it was a great time.
Brian Smith — Google review
Did the 5k for the Levine cancer center this morning. The best Saturday I've spent in a while. We were fortunate to have 3 generations walking for family. Must say that I'm not fond of the field being a soccer field though. Very nicely done, clean, and will be back soon for my panther's games. Loved the experience, and was well planned.👍💙🖤
Katherine Carroll — Google review
Dream come true. I thought I would never get to see panther football game in my life. After I wining the football tickets form Amazon. I finally get to see the game. My first time ever going to watch the Panthers game at the stadium. It was humongous! I had a good time with friends . But hey, what do you expect, it’s costly going to a football game. I would definitely go again though. There was face painting there too and I got myself one. I say, go give yourself this experience just once to see if you like it.
Myo Z Oo — Google review
Absolutely the best NFL facility with the cleanest, most well kept, and amazing amminities and staff. Their business, security, and operations teams are exemplary and second to none. Amazing to get to work with these folks, a true pleasure.
ESCALATOR CLEANING (BANKS ESCALATOR CLEANING) — Google review
Bank of America Panthers Stadium has been newly renovated to include better tech, seating as well as a locker room for the men's soccer team. We attended the epic Beyoncé Renaissance World Tour concert at the stadium and the new design is impeccable. The entire staff was extremely attentive and approachable. A beautiful venue.
360 MAGAZINE — Google review
It was my first NFL game and my 58th birthday!! Except for the loss and the cost of some items, I was very happy with my experience. Tickets were cheap because it was a preseason game. Parking cost near the stadium was astronomical, so I opted for free parking and the low-cost LYNX rail ride into downtown Charlotte. It was easy, safe, and convenient. Stadium concessions were very pricey, but I was impressed with the fact they offered alcoholic drinks other than just beer: You could get cocktails, wine, and hard seltzer too!
Scherron Lytch — Google review
First time attending a game here and the experience was very good. My daughter and I came to town to watch our Dallas Cowboys play the Panthers and I gotta hand it to the Panthers organization, this was a very smooth and well organized event. I would recommend arriving when the gates open and just walk around and familiarise yourself with where things are located (it’s really pretty self explanatory and well marked). The staff members are very helpful and friendly. Plenty of security. It really was a very enjoyable experience especially since the Cowboys won
Tim Mitchell — Google review
We had an excellent first time experience here at the Bank of America stadium in Charlotte. We sat in the silver club seats (section 313), which gives you access to a comfy indoor area with nice restrooms and plenty of bar & food options. The seats were comfortable folded-chair-back seats. There are two large score board screens at each end zone, and the game info (down, yards, play clock, etc) can also be seen directly across the field on a smaller screen. The staff was very prepared and made sure things went very smoothly, such as security check and scanning your phones for tickets. If you want to be sheltered from weather and sun, choose the higher rows in this section (19-21).
Kathryn Wilson — Google review
Went there to see the Dallas Cowboys vs panthers. Was a very awsome experience :). Was our first NFL game. Are seats were really good. Section 112 row 1A seats 3 & 4 about the 50 yard line. Will post better seat pictures when I download them from my camera :)
cindy richardson — Google review
Went there for the Charlotte FC 1st game of the season and loved the experience! Plenty of food and drink options (even hot cocoa). The picture attached is the view from section 542 seat 18
Ginna Buestan Russell — Google review
Atmosphere is electric here and the fan base for Charlotte fc is phenomenal. I’m coming from RSL culture in Utah and their fan base is a joke compared to here.
Bank of America stadium was well kept and looks stunning. Workers didn’t seem to know a clue about any sections but it was the home opener
Riley Boren — Google review
Back of America Stadium is a great place to watch football! This stadium gets a bad rap as talks of a new stadium are continually being mentioned. Let's be honest, BofA has some old bones. Some of the railings are bent. There are parts that are rusted. Some of the chairs are squeaky. It has character for its age. The best thing about BofA stadium is that there isn't a bad view in the stadium. You may be winded going up those flights of stairs, but you can still see everything just fine. A bonus is if you sit on the 550s side, you'll get a great view of the skyline. The concessions are solid. Bojangles, Krispy Kreme, & Domino's are our usual choices. The beer prices are as expected ($11-12 each). Whatever may happen to this stadium, I don't know, but for now, I'll continue to enjoy football games here & I hope to someday catch a concert here as well.
The NASCAR Hall of Fame Museum in Charlotte, North Carolina is dedicated to the sport of stock car racing and features interactive exhibits and a theater. The museum has grown from dirt tracks to super-speedways over the years and features memorabilia from famous NASCAR drivers. Race fans can visit the museum even if there is no race meeting going on.
My boyfriend and I came here for a day date, there was no line or anything- we like to do things that are fun and interactive. This was my first time at the hall of fame and there was more to do than I expected. The tickets are pricey but It would be a great place to bring kids if I had any. But it’s great for just adults too! I definitely recommend doing the racing simulation if you go, they were closing soon and let us do it for free and it was super fun, but typically you have to pay extra for it. We live uptown so we didn’t have to pay for parking but I suggest finding street parking and walking a little bit as opposed to a parking deck.
Sable Jeanette — Google review
If you are in Charlotte, it is a fun place to visit and good for all age groups. You can buy tickets at the booth or book online, either you it works. Consider family membership option if you are family of two and have 2-3 kids, as the family membership provides more value for money and you get two buddy passes which you can use immediately during the visit if you have more than two adults in your group. Simulation drive is included with the family membership, so value instead of combo tickets. It is a long line sometimes and probably most times to get into simulation. You can easily spend 3-4 hours at the museum, rest rooms are clean and very accessible.
satish baratam — Google review
NASCAR hall of fame museum is a must visit! I enjoyed this a lot with my family. The experience wasn’t what I had expected at all— in a great way! Stimulations and interactive activities all throughout. Very clean and well kept facility. Loved the gear shop as well. Highly recommend purchasing the Combo 1 package as you’re provided a cool lanyard for your hard card and unlimited rides on the race stimulator. Would love to visit again.
Aniya Eley — Google review
Its interesting and they have guided tours as well as a pit crew test where you can compete against other people. Not very expensive and they have a military discount, but not first responder for entrance tickets. Parking is not free unless you are a "Legends and Champions" member-I assume you'd know if you meet that qualification.
S W — Google review
Whether you're newly introduced to NASCAR or you're an avid fan, this place is a must-see. My mom and I went today, and it was a treat! We were able to take our time to look through all of the exhibits, and the staff was so courteous. They were very enthusiastic and willing to answer any questions. A memorable experience all around.
Meagan R — Google review
I am glad to finally visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame. My son is a big fan and I watch it a bit but we both had a blast! Learning the history and seeing everything on display was mesmerizing. The simulators were exciting and it was great to experience what the NASCAR life is like. I wish there were a few more sections so kids can interact since they are fans too but we made it work. The staff was very friendly and answered any questions we had.
jan tye — Google review
Even though I'm only a moderate NASCAR fan, and my wife has no love for any motor sport this place is an absolute must visit. The exhibitions are fun and brilliantly done. It's reasonably priced to get in with lots of combinations to make it cheaper.
Phillip Williams — Google review
It's interesting and neat to see the cars. But for 34 dollars and 12 dollars for parking. Unless your a really big fan of racing save yourself some money and skip this. There's a 12 minute movie that was interesting. But the best thing that is offered is the simulation it will have a long wait unless your going to stay all day plan on going on it once. Nascar is a billion dollar sport and this was the best they could do for its hall of fame, sorry but it's a big disappointment.
Jason Brandt — Google review
We had an absolutely amazing time here. About $ 80+ for 3 people with 2 of our tickets being discounted military. There are packages you can purchase to include a simulator ride. Very interactive. You get a card to scan at the stations for more information or to activate the kiosks. You can take a picture and get your face and name on the large jumbo screen with your favorite drivers you select underneath your picture welcoming you. There was a simulator qualifier, the real thing and a timed pit crew simulator. Super cool museum to view the history of NASCAR, owner and driver history. Amazing time for all.
Tonya Johnson-Jenkins — Google review
Clean facilities, everything was easy to read and adequate labelling of where to go. Good explanation of interactive activities or what was displayed. Best part was the staff, they were all very happy to help, explain and keep you engaged. Definitely recommend the simulator combo. Didn't eat there but food smelled and looked delicious.
Sam Pender — Google review
We got to go after hours with our convention, so it was pretty packed, and im not sure how that compares to a normal experience. If you're interested in Nascar, you'll love this place! There is lots of information for the history buffs, and lots to see! There was even interactive displays and "games."
Melissa Henning Independent Scentsy Consultant — Google review
Pretty cool for a half day activity and have fun games and activities for the kids. Wish there was more representation of diversity and some bumper cart action to tie it all together. A bit underwhelming for how big the building is.
Ilma Vallee — Google review
Great for kids, honestly it was much more interactive than I thought it would be. They have an individual card for you to use and scan throughout the tour to customize your experience, lots of models of the engineering and building of the cars too. They went all out on decoration and props, the place is extremely clean and well kept. 4 stories, but with elevators and ramps leading all the way up it's not a difficult jot though they said it takes about 3 hours to complete we were done in about 2. If you pay the extra for the driving simulator, there will be a bit of a wait and we didn't have that kind of time. All in all, great value and a good memory
Spencer T — Google review
I’m not a NASCAR fan but the hall of fame is definitely worth visiting if you are in town and have time. We visited on a Monday right when it opened and it was empty. We did the racing simulator multiple times as well as the pit crew station; both were fun. There are a lot of exhibits for those that are fans. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable and clearly loved working there.
Travelbuff — Google review
Great place to visit if you're a Nascar fan of any kind that said, overall great place to visit. Even if you are just a car fan, it's well laid out and very interesting.
Extremely clean, if you care to eat there the cafeteria is not overpriced and is much faster than trying to eat in Buffalo wild wings which is attached. You can wait there till you're gray-haired and probably never get a table.
Parking is just around the corner from the front door and easily accessible to the Hall of Fame
Bob “Doc” R — Google review
What a fantastic experience. One of the friendliest environments I have ever been in. From the front desk to the workers on the floor it’s like they were all trained at Chick fil a. Super high level of customer service at the hall of fame. The exhibits were beautiful and the car simulators were awesome. But the most fun had to be the pit lane simulator where you physically have to do a pit stop on a car. Such a great place to visit I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone
Jonathan Batista — Google review
We visited early afternoon on a weekday, no waiting to get in and I recommend you pick a ticket package that best suit your needs. You may not want to take part in all the Halls attractions. We did the simulator and photo with lunch credit package. You also get a $10 speed (gift) shop voucher included. The displaces are beautifully displaced with detailed narration. We enjoyed ourselves.
Todd Matthews — Google review
I am not a Nascar fan, but I did enjoy the museum. The interactive race simulator was so much fun! Very clean, with fun exhibits. My husband thoroughly enjoyed!
Amy Mertz — Google review
Looking back at old pictures then realized I need to tell you to go! I went August 2022. I did not know exactly what to expect, but it exceeded any expectations. It was large, clean, informative, interactive and interesting. Its very well made. A must see in Charlotte.
Michele Kim — Google review
I'll admit, I'm not a die-hard NASCAR fan, but my visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte was surprisingly enjoyable! From the moment I walked in, I could appreciate the rich history and the excitement that surrounds NASCAR.
The exhibits were thoughtfully put together with interactive displays and engaging videos, making it easy for someone like me to learn and get into it. I was especially impressed by the Hall of Honor, which introduced me to the legends of the sport and their incredible stories.
Even though I'm not a racing enthusiast, I had a blast with the simulator experiences. It was a unique chance to feel what it's like to be on a NASCAR track, and I found it really fun.
The staff members were friendly and happy to share their knowledge, which helped me understand more about the sport. And the gift shop had some cool NASCAR merchandise that even a casual fan like me couldn't resist.
So, even if you're not a NASCAR fanatic, the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte can still be a fun and educational experience. It certainly was for me!
Jacob Edmisten — Google review
I had a great time exploring the history and memorabilia of the Nascar Hall of Fame. Seeing the cars up close and on the banked track of the rotunda, you really get a feel for what it's like being a driver. Upon entry, every ticket holder receives a plastic, credit card sized card that helps you interact with the displays and make it a more personal experience. With the race simulator (for an additional charge) and the pit crew challenge (included in general admission), you get to experience what it's like to sit in the driver seat and be a pit crew member.
There are also tons of artifacts on display with a brief story behind the person that wore, drove, owned, or turned a wrench on. With so much to see and learn about, you really need multiple days to explore, but it's also makes a good day trip. Whether you are a Nascar fan or not, it's worth seeing at least once.
erik roberts — Google review
We were in town for a conference and I decided to take my little one to check out the cool cars! Let me just say he loved it! He is a big fan of lightning McQueen, so that was a lovely surprise for him!
I purchased the number three combo pack and it was definitely worth it! The barbeque beef sandwich was great! You also get a $10 credit for the gift shop which is pretty cool and a free photo! There is the option to buy a second photo for $15.
The employees were friendly and it was fun exploring the museum!
Tamra Roney — Google review
I don’t know what kid or adult wouldn’t like this place!! Definitely going back! Well worth the money. I bought tickets online, but there still would have been no wait! Very organized and structured. Bought a package that comes with the simulator, lunch, a certificate to the gift shop and other goodies! Very interactive and educational museum! There’s like 3 or 4 levels to the museum so wear your walking shoes. A theater with a 20 minute show is included you can watch at your leisure.
Shynekia Riley — Google review
Beautiful facility with kind and welcoming staff. The facility is setup so nicely! You will see and learn all aspects of NASCAR including detailed history. Don't skip the simulator and pit crew challenge. Well worth the price of admission. There is limited street parking but there is an attached parking garage. We went on a weekday (Thursday) and it wasn't busy.
Darrell Kennison — Google review
A truly amazing experience. The architecture of the venue alone is a marvel. The cars, suits, helmets, trophies and other exhibits are wonderfully arranged. Do not miss trying the race simulation in a model car and the pit stop challenge. Something not to miss by any means when in Charlotte
Miloš Milosavljević — Google review
Huge place. So much to see and do. So reasonably priced for all you get. Simulators, pit stop challenge and so many more interactive exhibits. We stayed 3 hours but, could have stayed 5. We loved it.
Ladonna Warwick — Google review
If you're a die hard NASCAR fan who appreciates the history, you'll likely really enjoy a visit to the hall of fame. For me as a casual fan at best, I had a very underwhelming experience. Also, I wouldn't bring kids here, they'll be very bored. The best thing was that all of the workers I encountered were nice and helpful. Everything else I found to be very boring and quite overpriced. The driving simulation was kind of cool, but was quite far from a realistic experience overall.
If the cost of admission was half of what they charge, I'd feel a bit more like I got my money's worth. Otherwise, it's just boring and overpriced. Plus you have to pay for parking too.
Kaleb Curl — Google review
This place is fun for all! Knowledgeable about the sport and even had live simulators to enjoy from racing to pit stop challenges. Recommend getting the package to eat and enjoy free memorabilia and photos with crew or family
Dr. Godsey — Google review
Pretty cool experience. I was able to go through a company party so everything was available for use. The driving simulation was really cool. You first qualify on a machine with a steering wheel and then you get in an actual life size Nascar and race with a screen in front of you. 16 people were able to race each other at once. They also had a tire changing challenge. The whole walkway up goes through all the degrees of the tracks. It was pretty cool. It also had a ton of memorabilia for Nascar fans.
bryan debarbieris — Google review
Definitely a bucket list place for any NASCAR fan. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit there. I arrived a little later on a Saturday (after lunch) and it wasn't crowded at all. Lots of history and memorabilia there, stuff going way back.
Gary — Google review
Best place for inspiration and race car fans. Their display was beautifully done and they speak for the self. I would recommend go spend atleast few mins to read story around it. Overall was very inspiring and motivational visit
Jagadeesh Rahul — Google review
Fantastic museum completely different than I was expecting.
The cars are very well arranged, clean, all details and information about them with pictures and displays.
Information about the roads where they race, angle of the road in all angles. Their car simulator is a must to do for if you want to have the feeling of drive those cars at high speed.
They have a theater room to show movies of cars competition.
Better yet, they have discounts for seniors.
I recommend this place to all ages and gender.
Always a good time when we go! Some of the best wines ever! Great atmosphere and knowledgeable staff. Get on their mailing list so you are in the know about events they have planned because they're great! We had so much fun today painting and drinking wine. There was a sweets vendor there also so I got some chocolate. Good times!
Danielle Krack — Google review
I absolutely love Dennis Vineyard. I'm a member and I love the drive when ever I go to visit. The owners are so kind and friendly. They are truly family oriented and make you feel like family. The wines are amazing. I have been coming to Dennis Vineyard since my niece was 5 and she is 21 years old now..lol. I'm from Charlotte and they're isn't many vineyards in Charlotte so, if you're ever in the mood for a nice drive through Midland, Locust, and Redcross of NC in Albemarle, NC please visit them I promise you'll enjoy the trip. They also have Muscadine picking. They do wine tasting as well. They also do events. You'll love the wine. It's worth the drive if you live in Charlotte or just visiting from out of town. Thank you Dennis Vineyard for your kindness and great customer service. ❤
QueenCityWoman — Google review
Visited today for final planning for a March wedding. Patty was great explaining layout and decorating options for the reception hall (A Place at The Vineyards). She listened to the couple's vision of their special day and gave great options that will ensure the couple's wedding day is a truly unique and special event!
Cel St.Pierre — Google review
It's a pretty simple place. A small terrace by the street with (about) 4 tables and a very basic store.
The staff is nice and helpful.
They make a couple of dry muscadine wines (one red, one white). Nothing spectacular, but certainly interesting. They are dry, but taste very fruity at the same time.
Now, if you are into sweet wines, this is the place for you.
They sell their wines in some local supermarkets; so it's OK to visit for a tasting if you are in the area, but I wouldn't go out of my way to get there.
Eduardo Motta — Google review
We we told when we visited in the fall of 2021 (the women behind the counter said ) they were going to sell this place and were not doing any weddings past Dec 2021. I guess they didnt like the way we looked or something because that was apparently a lie. Wedding was at a better place anyway the aquarium at Fort Fisher. So if they thought we couldn't afford their place, they were wrong. but I would never visit this place again.
Pam Misenheimer — Google review
The staff here is lovely and the atmosphere is really nice and serene. They have lots of space to sit inside and outside. If you can't drink they have some nonalcoholic slushies, but you can also bring in your own snacks.
Madison Sequira — Google review
Visited here on Saturday afternoon. The staff was friendly and helpful. They have a nice patio, that overlooks the vineyard, to sit on and enjoy a glass of wine. The wine we tried was good, the blueberry was very good. They also have wine slushies that were good. The have a good selection of sweet and fruit wines.
B. Y. — Google review
Took a friend to try the Dennis wine "line up." She thoroughly enjoyed the wines, and as always, Amy is a wonderful host!
Will truly miss this wonderful family when the vineyard sells.
Best of luck in the future to all of the Dennis clan!
D Davis — Google review
Dennis Vineyards is easily one of our favorite wineries around. They have an extensive portfolio of wines, and I would recommend every one that we tried. Definitely a cool place to hang out with friends for an hour or two and enjoy a wine tasting. They have a stunning facility that is a great place for weddings or group events. This is also a very romantic location for a perfect date.
Michael Unruh — Google review
Nice place. Try the Dry muscadine and semi sweet muscadine. They are good and unusual for that type of grade. It is normally a sweet wine.
Plus, there is a distillery right across the street !
Jerry — Google review
Love this place in albemarle, nc. They have award winning wine. The offer free small tasters but i went for larger 4 sample taster shown in picture. You can choose by bottle or buy by the glass. A option for everyone.
Orlando Young — Google review
The place is beautiful. Many areas to sit relax and enjoy a glass or 2. The staff is very friendly and helpful! Delicious and fruity wines. The sweetheart wine was my favorite; not overly sweet but just sweet enough
The Billy Graham Library is a museum and research facility that celebrates the life and legacy of Billy Graham, one of the most influential Christian evangelists in history. The museum has galleries featuring presentations, artifacts, pictures, voices, and more from Graham's lifetime as well as recreations of crucial moments from his life. The library is always free to visit.
Absolutely beautiful. The tour was amazing, inspiring and touched my heart. As a history lover, I enjoyed seeing all the paraphernalia on display. One of my favourites was the suit he wore to see the Queen. The gardens are a lovely addition, and the house is a must see. It's maintained so well. Staff are kind, friendly, and accommodating. Didn't get to spend a lot of time at the library because we came late but it had a good selection of books and we bought some. My husband and I stopped to just watch Billy Graham's recorded sermons and he is charismatic and the sermons were very relevant to today. So grateful to visit and would highly recommend a visit here! 😁
Ranita Isaac — Google review
I visited Billy Graham Library this past week. It was such an amazing experience. The volunteers were friendly and welcoming. There was plenty of parking and no waiting in line although there were plenty of people around visiting.
As I approached the house where the Grahams once lived, I could hear worship music emanating from the garden and throughout the grounds...such a serene atmosphere. There was a prayer bench/garden that I sat at and prayed (see photo).
I was told that the house is 60% of the original house construction the Grahams lived in when he was a young boy from 7-17 years old. Every brick, according to the tour guide, was disassembled, numbered one by one, moved from one location of NC and reassembled/built to sit on this property at the Billy Graham Library. Amazing…
The barn with the cross is the actual Library and where the cafe is located. Again, everyone was welcoming and inviting. The food at the cafe is good and reasonably priced. .
Leslie Howard?s Motivations — Google review
I loved the history here! From his childhood home to all the amazing accomplishments from his life. One of my all time favorite museums. Everyone here was so friendly and inviting. The gift shop was really nice. Enjoyed every moment here! Can wait to go back soon.
Brent Turner — Google review
Our first visit to this holy place was truly a blessing. The staff were kind, gracious, and welcoming, embodying the love of Christ in their actions. It was an inspiration to learn about the life and work of Billy Graham, and how he devoted himself to spreading the word of God. His unwavering faith and commitment to serving the Lord is a shining example for us all. We left feeling uplifted and renewed in our own faith. Praise be to God for this wonderful experience.
E Z — Google review
God bless you when you go to this blessing site.
There are two structures of this site. One is library itself, alone with a bookstore and a shop. They have some decent souvenirs.
The other one is the Graham family homeplace. There are volunteers as tour guides that tell you the family history and the building history.
I especially paid a visit to the cemetery. That's the main reason I came to this site.
I bumped into one volunteer. After he heard my road trip story, he put hand on my head and he prayed for me.
It really touched my heart. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏❣️❣️❣️❣️
Project Entry — Google review
This is a wonderful place to visit! I was pleasantly surprised at the level of technology used to make this a very interesting stop. The focus of the library is not on the person of Billy Graham, but on how God used him. His evangelical efforts continue in this museum. It was amazing to see the people and places that Billy and Ruth Graham impacted for Christ. Truly an amazing life and a great memorial to his dedication to Jesus Christ!
Lynn McCord — Google review
The Billy Graham Library and Journey of Faith is a must see. We thoroughly enjoyed it! Since we came on November 30, we were also able to view the live nativity which was very nice.
Nancy P. Blough — Google review
What a cool experience! The production quality of the “journey of faith” was top notch. Felt like something out of Disney World. Very encouraging experience and fun for the family. The little restaurant is great too. Don’t sleep on the coffee, it was better than Starbucks.
Michael Will — Google review
The Billy Graham Library is a beautiful, peaceful place to be able to hear the gospel preached. The staff here is very caring and give such a warm welcome to everyone. My family was asked by several staff members if there was anything they could pray over for us. Love coming here and do so about every year.
Tabitha Long — Google review
This was such a great place to visit in Charlotte. It's so peaceful and beautiful. The staff was really kind and very knowledgeable, willing to explain everything in detail.
The exhibit is well organized and even their store is nice.
I particularly loved the gallery of photos and the display about the life of Billy Graham.
This could be such a great venue for a wedding.
I loved that there was no entry fee too.
Definitely worth a visit.
Adriana Perez — Google review
A very pleasant surprise stop on our trip. The staff is really friendly and eager to connect and help. The whole exhibition on Billy Graham's life is really well done and worth every second! Would definitely recommend. Not only is informational and entertaining, but it also really straightens one's faith.
Josh Binder — Google review
Very moving. It's amazing to see what he did in his lifetime. It inspired me to do better, be better. The cafe is reasonable with great food. Allow time to enjoy each and every part of the experience.
May B. — Google review
First time to this museum — it is a very well curated museum. It specializes in detailing the life and ministry of evangelist Billy Graham. The presentation and flow of the museum was very well done. Lots of information, lots of artifacts. If one is a fan of Graham or just curious as to who he was, it should be satisfying. Admission was free though they will accept donations. The museum part takes about 1.5 hours to do. Went on a Monday, it was not busy.
Christopher Weeks — Google review
Beautiful experience with the family. Inspired to live my life more fulfilling and following the Lord’s will! My kids also enjoyed it and my eldest cried. The snippets of Billy Graham’s sermons were so powerful and moving. We highly recommend going out of your way to visit this anointed place!!
Miriam Miriam — Google review
First time visiting. Found the experience to be very enriching.
Hearing the journey of faith 🙏 beginning was amazing.
Visited Ruth attic which had many gift ideas.
the original home that Billy grew up in.
Grave sites for Billy and his wife.
Great experience! Highly recommend when in Charlotte.
Also the concession stand that offered good food choices.
Raquel M — Google review
We toured the museum & library on March 14, 2024. Absolutely amazing !!!
Very moving and heart warming. he was such a wonderful evangelist. Unfortunately, I never appreciated him growing up as I did when I got older. I had tears when I walked through the exhibits. You can visit his boyhood home which has been moved to that site. He and his wifeare buried next to the museum. It is truly a fantastic place to visit. Absolutely a must. Staffed by volunteers The restaurant served delicious food very reasonably priced.
Phyllis — Google review
What an amazing experience it was to visit this place. An honorable man of God who has left such an everlasting impact for God’s kingdom and a legacy for generations to come. Clean, hospitable, inviting, educational and enlightening. Kudos for the amazing staff and their sensitivity to the Holy Spirit to drop anything they’re doing to pray with and for someone
Bonnie Cerezo — Google review
Entry is free and they even give you a gift bag for filling out a survey because they truly want to make the museum a blessing to people. There is a tour that takes you through the life of Billy Graham and family. The first half or so is guided with the last half being self directed. There's a bathroom at the entry and half way through the museum. You learn so much about him the impact he made. In the same building is an adorable gift shop and cafe.
You'll also find a prayer garden where Billy and Ruth are buried along with his childhood home that was disassembled and rebuilt there. You can tour both at a self directed pace.
Most of the workers are volunteers and know a ton about the Graham family and are even ready to pray with you.
What an amazing way for Billy and Ruth Graham to reach people after their earthly life! A must go when in Charlotte.
Crystal Clow — Google review
The Billy Graham Library is peaceful, full of history and Christian heritage. The Journey of Faith is so enlightening and Billy and Ruth Graham are examples of humility, love and serving others. I spent a lot of time in the gift shop. The Dairy Barn has the best scones! Each volunteer is friendly and gracious.
Sheila Deese — Google review
Offers a self tour of the home of Billy Graham. The home and library have plenty of memorabilia from Mr & Mrs Graham’s life and ministry. Plenty of friendly staff throughout to help and answer any questions. Large bookstore and a place to eat inside. Walking trails with benches and the final resting place of the Grahams on site. Very nice place to visit.
RWS — Google review
The Holy Spirit of Truth was felt the moment my wife and I stepped out of the vehicle. It has such a peaceful atmosphere. Great intimate details and displays of his life, family and team through his Evangelical journey. Set aside about 3 hours and become immersed in his history and more important God's word.
It will be on our visit list every time we come to Charlotte North Carolina. Peace and blessings!
Richard Riley — Google review
One of the most beautiful and serene experiences I've had. It is a beautiful library/museum, that offers free admission, a bookstore, cafe, and history about Billy Graham and his ministry. And wonderful staff and volunteers who will even pray with you at the end. I'm grateful to have been able to visit the Library, which it's main goal is to magnify and glorify Jesus Christ.
Ben — Google review
This place is so special! You really feel God’s heart through everything here. We love the tour and enjoy sharing with our friends and loved ones. Have been many times. The Library also hosts events like the women’s tea which is lovely! The Christmas event at the Library is one you don’t want to miss! The food is good! The gift shop is great!
Courtney D — Google review
Weeknight visit in Dec. Had prebooked tickets (general admission/parking free).
Beautiful place that is well-maintained and well-staffed with volunteers and paid help. Shuttles came quickly as it was not busy. Live nativity with bonus kangaroo. Waking paths were well-lit. Workers said there were carolers on-site for 30 minutes but we never saw them or heard ANY music on the grounds throughout our trip (outside of the Journey of Faith tour which showcased Billy Graham's life of evangelism). This tour was free and lasted about 90 min. They have kids' activity sheets to keep them engaged in the tour (two versions: younger and older). 8 year old did the pictire-based scavenger-hunt one and 12 year old did the older version which held their attention and resulted in a small gift for each of them in the gift shop.
Carriage rides were additional, $12 adult/$6 child. We didn't participate in the sit-down dinner as it was sold out when I booked tickets at Thanksgiving time. (If you're on the mailing list list, they send an email when the dinner bookings start in early Nov.)
This expansive park is home to a number of trails and playgrounds, making it an ideal place for families to spend a day. It is also the site of a large bandshell, which anchors the park's Veterans Memorial.
What a fantastic place for photo shoots, walking, running, family time together. Many picturesque views. Nice playground area for kids. Playground is well maintained. Football fields. Very calming and serene place with the lake and broad walk along the lake. Three hours flew by very fast.
Yuliana Demid — Google review
This park has raised the bar for what a park can be, I may have to begin issuing tiers. I would place this park on a S-Tier level. 🙌🏾
I was not able to see all that this park has to offer but from what I was able to witness this place has everything. From a great place for portraiture, activities for the kids, a place to have a cookout and/or even a FAMILY REUNION, there a mini amphitheater and a walk/run trail and a nature preserve. 🤩 🏞
If you are ever in Charlotte North Carolina, do yourself a favor and check this place out you will not be disappointed. 🍾🎈🎉
Greg LaCoste — Google review
Beautiful and peaceful park for all ages! They have softball, football and volleyball arrangements on the periphery of the park and then all around the water, you can picnic, play some family games or enjoy an afternoon nap. I believe they have live music and events in the summer, not sure but the stage was set up for it so definitely keep an eye out.
The washrooms very clean and well maintained. There are 3-4 parking areas around the park but they do fill up fairly fast.
Prerna Dugar — Google review
Simply a wonderful park. I loved all the space that it had and places to walk and a lot of activity going on such as picnics, walks, Sports on fields, wedding pictures, exploring, excellent Kids Play Gym, great nature scenes, a natural Amphitheater and more. Well done Charlotte!
Suzie Jackson — Google review
Very pretty, nice walk but they need to regrade some of the walkways to avoid flooding after heavy rains. The lake is picturesque and there are many ducks and geese swimming in it. Plenty of dogs and families walking about too so there is calm and happy vibe throughout the park. I enjoy walking there on a beautiful spring or fall day.
David D — Google review
Freedom Park is a fantastic place with a diverse range of trees, a serene lake, and charming geese. It's the perfect spot for relaxing and rejuvenating walks. The variety of trees and the peaceful atmosphere create a truly uplifting experience. Highly recommended!
Kumar G — Google review
Beautiful place to walk around and enjoy the scenery! Everyone we passed was very polite and greeted us with a smile. Great place to visit and take some pictures!
Samara Songer — Google review
awesome spot to walk, run, chill, work.
when i lived closer i went at least once a week. now its occasional, but still every bit as nice.
the bathrooms are kept and the grounds always look good.
cool regular — Google review
Very nice and clean park with plenty of parking. Clean restrooms. Pet friendly. There's something for the entire family here. Walking trails, playgrounds, softball/baseball fields, basketball & tennis courts, sand volleyball area, and open fields for frisbee or other activities.
Jabarrus Jones — Google review
What a beautiful, wonderful, park! Great walking and cycling paths, history markers, playgrounds, BBQ pits and shelters, and even a Carolina Panthers Play 60 obstacle course for all ages! Extremely dog friendly too unlike what I had read previously which made me leave my dog behind. Won't make that mistake again. Even if your not particularly close to Charlotte, it is worth the drive and one can easily kill an entire day there. Check it out, you will NOT be disappointed.
Asian Adventures — Google review
If you're looking for a beautiful outdoor space to explore, look no further than Freedom Park. This park is truly a gem, offering everything from hiking trails to picnic areas to stunning views. The park is immaculately maintained, and the staff are friendly and helpful.
One of my favorite things about Freedom Park is the variety of activities available. Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, there's a trail for you. And if you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy a picnic, you'll find plenty of shady spots to set up camp.
But perhaps the best thing about Freedom Park is the natural beauty that surrounds you. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, and you never know what you might encounter on your visit. Whether you're an avid nature lover or just looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Freedom Park is the perfect destination.
Overall, I would highly recommend Freedom Park to anyone looking for a fun and relaxing outdoor experience. The park is clean, well-maintained, and offers something for everyone. It's no wonder that this park has become a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. Five stars!
Turgut Aliev — Google review
It’s my first time to visit this park and its so amazing. I love the walking trail as well the scenery. Good for nature lovers. Family friendly as they have playground for kids and court for different sports. Just encounter difficulty in finding the parking. And if your kind of person that insects really love, better to have insect repellant with you or wear long sleeves and pants.
Pau Belle — Google review
Love this place. There are a wide range of trees and plants. The walkways are clear and well managed. You can walk completely around the pond. There is a lot of shade available. To me, this is the perfect weekend. All dogs I saw were on leash, as well. There was a nearby food truck which had a long line.
The only con I could find was the water was a little murky. I like to see the fish. 🐟
Anita Mick — Google review
Beautiful place to walk your pup and just hang out. Parking sucks but that's just anywhere in Charlotte. This place is as bad as Atlanta.
Ken — Google review
Beautiful park in the middle of
Charlotte. Great paved walking path around the pond. Several picnic tables with some under shelters. Restrooms were open and honestly cleaner than expected for an urban park setting.
Allison Bowen — Google review
This park is amazing! I highly recommend going here either by yourself or with your family.
There's a little bit of everything for you or the family to do!
In one half of the park there's:
Tennis & pickleball courts;
soccer & baseball fields;
A bathroom and drinking fountain
an AWESOME obstacle course and pull up bars; a large swing set with (10) regular swings and (4) small child swings;
A decommissioned steam locomotive to look at and walk into
A good sized park for the kids;
In the other half of the park there's:
A medium sized lake with fountains where you can fish
A long walking/ biking trail
An amphitheatre with a beautiful bridge (popular for taking pictures)
Many picnic tables for you to eat at;
A terraced hill (to sit on or view shows put on in the amphitheatre.
There's so many things to do- we can't wait to go back!
The bathrooms are a little cleaner than most parks.
Beware near the terraced hill, as there's some nasty biting ants- careful where you sit an be step!;
jonmarkheaner — Google review
People are always friendly here and it's a great place to exercise or get some outdoor time. They have art events here, and this is where they filmed some shots for Love is Blind Season 6.
JOEMface “JOEMface” — Google review
Beautiful day to explore the park, Easter Sunday. Bikes to rent, people out enjoying the sun, and we spotted an Owl hanging out in the wood line.
James Grandy — Google review
What a beautiful place to take a walk which is what my wife and I did today there at Freedom Park. So much yet to explore. Nice playgrounds as well.
Rich Thornton — Google review
Beautiful park with plenty to do.
The big playgrounds are great for kids and I loved the fields that are available for visitors to use.
Plenty of parking, restrooms and walking trails.
The perfect spot to spend a nice day out.
Adriana Perez — Google review
Freedom Park is a wonderful park in Charlotte, and has been my favourite ever since I moved here. It’s located in between Dilworth and Myers Park area.
The park is spread around a lake, which has pretty views. The paved trails allow for convenient walking and running. The tennis courts allow for a good way to showcase your tennis skills. At times, I’ve also seen performances and events going on in the park, which provides a good communal feeling of partaking in things together.
The Charlotte Nature Museum right next to the park is a fun way to learn about the animals of the Piedmont region, and I’ve been there multiple times as well. It’s worth it.
Overall, Freedom Park is a wonderful way to chill, relax, exercise and spend time either alone or with your loved ones. The views are amazing as well. The steam engine in the park is pretty cool too. The swings and the playground area for kids attracts children and families all the year around.
The name Freedom Park was bestowed upon it to honour the veterans of World War II.
There’s parking available at the Whittington Field entrance.
Akshat Kumar — Google review
Nice park with lots of tennis courts. Fresh, clean air, it was quiet when I visited it. I was looking for a wall to play tennis on my own, there is something wooden, which potentially could be used to practice alone, but probably not a great way to play - it doesn't seem to be sturdy enough.
Liliya Y — Google review
Beautiful park! We took a nice hike. Enjoyed the fresh air, nature, sunshine and exercise. We’ll definitely visit again next time we’re in town!
Carowinds is a seasonal, family-friendly amusement park that offers a variety of thrilling rides and attractions. It is known as the Thrill Capital of the Southeast and boasts 13 world-class roller coasters, including Peanuts-themed rides in Planet Snoopy. In addition to these adrenaline-pumping options, there are plenty of other family rides like Boo Blasters on Boo Hill, Skytower, Rip Roarin Rapids, and Dinosaurs Alive featuring lifelike animatronic creatures.
Went with my family during Winter Fest. We had so much fun and all the lights and Christmas trees were beautiful. So much to do and look at and all the hot chocolate you can drink. After the initial purchase all refills are free. Huge plus that the smaller coasters were operational. I love all coasters it was just a little chilly for me but plenty of people were riding so it's nice to have that option
Jacob Gonzales — Google review
I purchased a seasonal pass & food pass which I highly recommend. A meal can cost around $18 and that's without a drink. I've been going here for years and my daughters really enjoys it. They have a new section Aeronautica which has some cool rides.
Deanna Troy-Billups — Google review
Went with my bestie, it was fun, we walked around and rode the Viper, completely shook us!🤣 not much good food choices, panda express is there but seems to be lacking. It was a good walking park though, and there was also a parade which the kids enjoyed. Not that busy when we went there which was a Sunday.
ANNE — Google review
I absolutely love this park! The park is beautiful with a huge variety of rides. The majority of the coasters were great. My favorite coaster was Fury 325! We ate at several restaurants and the food was good. I can't wait to come back!
Will Gausman — Google review
It was excellent! They had plenty of help, security had a presence. Everyone had a great time. The food was outstanding too! I love to eat, so I thought there was plenty of food portioned out. Get the dining package. If you eat twice, you've got your money's worth.
jay shepherd — Google review
We have been to a lot of amusement parks and this one was setup correctly. My kids loved the snoopy land! The staff is amazing to work with and the whole process was simple from start to finish!
Matt Williams — Google review
Cedar Fair parks are fun, but to bad Fury 325 is down because of cracked support.
I'm glad, After Burner still has airplane there. Hint when finished with it can I have it 😉
Park needs a Chicken Shack like Kings Island has.
I have VIP pass but want a waste of money. Bait and switch when they said soda and snacks. I only saw a water pitcher there. I will never get VIP on my pass next year.
Missed Parade that was at 5pm when thinking it was 8pm. Couldn't get info on it inside the park..
All in all, I had a great time. See ya in 2024...
Chuck Allred — Google review
A little on the pricey side but if you want to try to save money you can always go to the website and pay for day tickets a day in advance (for the cheaper tickets in the evening.. It looked like if you paid for tickets for 4pm and after a day in advance, you could get tickets for $37.99). We paid about $43.00 (because we purchased tickets for the same day for 4pm and after) per person but it was better than $75.00 or $80.00 per person that they charge if you try go earlier (for us anyways, to each their own). I definitely recommend buying tickets online, especially if you plan to go at 4 or after, I didn't see any ticket booth open to buy tickets). When I called the number, it straight up told me we had to purchase tickets online. Also, be prepared to go through a metal detector if you have anything metallic on you. I highly recommend checking your pockets and purse and leaving anything unnecessary in the car before walking into the park. They will go through everything you have (and dump it all out on the table in front of everyone) to find out what is causing the metal detector to go off. We had fun though. The kids had fun. That's what it's about anyways. We got to enjoy the park and all of its rides and it was open until 9 that evening (well, it was supposed to be but that's another story for another day). Just so you know, parking has to be paid separately as well and it was $30.00. This was on a Thursday (Just mentioning that because I kept seeing people online saying it was $25.00). That's not the price we paid. Just want you all to be able to make an informed decision and still be able to have fun at a price that works for you. Be safe!
Amanda Reed — Google review
My family and I love coming here. We get Gold passes every year so we can go to Scarowinds and WinterFest. It is crowded so I suggest taking a picture of your child with what they are wearing that day incase you might get separated, especially if you have a runner, and I always put my phone number in my kids bag just to make sure.
Brianna Hughes — Google review
Fantastic Park. Very clean, and super clean restrooms (which is an oddity). I will note that the food is good all around. They have a lot of GREAT roller coasters. The Fury is wild!
We have been here 2 times and have had a blast. We had a minor issue with our Fast Pass but Shane in Guest Services was awesome and took care of us.
We will be back soon!
Mark Henry — Google review
Went for Winter Fest to celebrate New Year's Eve with family. Enjoyed the festive mood, decorations, hot cocoa, and variety of warm beverages. Riding the attractions that were open was fun!
Cel St.Pierre — Google review
Haven't been to the park since I was 25..Many years ago!!! It's very well kept,lots of attendants to help find your way around!! The food is very expensive so it's worth getting the meal ticket if your gonna be there all day!!! The rides were just as I remembered!!! Fun and full of excitement!!!!
Robin Bryant — Google review
Came here for the first time for Winter fest. Lights were really done well. Copperhead was the best ride they had operating, very fun. Only complaints were that there was no directory of what rides are operational, causing a lot of wandering around. Food was limited as well.
Mucko LA — Google review
We visited here in the evening. So the entrance admission fee was less than regular. It's the holiday season and pretty chilled at night. Part of the exciting rides were closed, but those roller coaster rides were open. Your teens still can have great exciting fun. For those young children, Snoopy Camp is a good area to impress them. There were also a lot singing/dancing shows to watch. Finally, there was a parade like Disney which brought a perfect end of night. Holiday lighting decorations here is one of the attractions for all visitors.... Merry Christmas and Happy holidays!!
Peng Hsu — Google review
A fun time for all ages, friends, family, & co-workers. Tons to do for all from thrill-seekers to the more calmer individuals. Definitely worth the trip, but be sure to get the season pass and meal plan if you plan on going more than one day, as this will definitely pay for itself.
Bobby Guthy — Google review
We had a great time, we arrived early to make sure we avoid the crowd. We got into several lines and by noon the wait time was about an hour. Still we had fun. The park is very nice, clean, the staff is nice, mostly tan by young adults. When we got hungry we ate at the big food court and the food was decent, we got chicken strips and fries. We are definitely coming back
Carla Rodriguez — Google review
Great place, but they're getting greedy. $30 for parking is ridiculous! Buy tickets online prior to visiting because it's much cheaper.
Dameka Watson — Google review
This visit was for winter fest. Do not go expecting rides very few are running but the lights and magic feeling of Christmas is great try being the kid you know you want to be.we had a blast worth the trip as long as you know what to expect. Also find scrooge and tell him I sent you bet dressed group there and keep a eye out for deer they got loose when we were there
john baker — Google review
We went for Winter Fest. The park was decorated nicely and I absolutely loved the parade. There were people walking around in costumes of Christmas old. There were performances throughout the park and the times and locations were posted in several locations. We didn't ride while we were there...we just enjoyed the festivities.
Trena — Google review
Amazing amusement park! Very clean and well kept, staff that we interacted with were all very friendly and helpful. Beautiful decorations for their winter festivities and so many fun things for kids and kids at heart! Everything was easily found and we found the app to be helpful finding locations around the park. Handicap accessible areas and restrooms available.
-Artsy Photos LLC- — Google review
We were able to go pretty early in the morning, before many people were there and the lines got too long. Every ride had about a 15 minute wait once it got a little more busy. The food places there were good and they have cute souvenirs. The rides are all amazing and so much fun!!!
Jay G — Google review
Lots of fun for all ages. We purchased tickets online and added the meal and drinks for the entire day. Be careful with the food if you are planning to dine later, while it states that food is available up to the time the park closes, we found that most of the "restaurants" were closed an hour earlier.
Melissa Ashurst — Google review
I visited the place during the opening weekend. It was a fun thrilling experience. Since the park wasn't that busy, there weren'tany long queue for the rides, so was able to go on all the thrilling roller coasters. Fury 325, thunder strike, night hawk are my top 3! I also tried the ripcord and it was an amazing experience!
Arya Saraswathi Potti — Google review
Terrible experience. Paid a lot of money for myself and 2 grandchildren to get in. Most rides were down and only running intermittently. Not a weather problem. Someone said they were having electrical problems??? Then close down and refund money. See all of the down ride pictures in my view!
Terri Johnston — Google review
Dear Mr Carowinds. Today was spring break and may daughter who is six almost seven and I thought this would be a fun place to adventure. We got to the park just after open. It was easy to get in. Although 30 dollars to park was almost the same price of a third ticket. We entered the park quick and were ready to ride. The park was very clean. My mini me is 46 inch. Which was just under the 48 inch mark. Seems to be a gap in the small kids rides to the big kids 58 inch tall. But we did find a lot to ride. Four roller coasters, three that were age, appropriate and one that was for smaller kids. We did find about seven other things to ride. The haunted house was fun. It was a bit extreme on the prices of food. $17 for a piece of pizza was really pricey. But we did manage to have a great day. At the very end of the day we got one the gear spin. Sophia was running it. She closed the line right after we got in line at 8:02. She was amazing and made our day. As we got on she talked the ride up and made the last ride of the day so much fun. She went far and beyond someone who just enjoyed their job. We did have an amazing day. It would have just been a little been in a year or two when she can ride more of the bigger coasters. See you again in a couple years and thanks for the memories.
Troy Faries — Google review
Winterfest (New Years Eve celebration) was great! Our family had an amazing time. There were lots of people, but lines were not long for the rides that were open, and hot chocolate and cider were amazing and kept you warm. We enjoyed the rides, the food, the parade, and the live bands! (No issues, and it appeared that everyone was having a good time)
We have season passes, so being able to enjoy a year-round experience is always fun for our family. You can't go wrong buying a season pass if you live in the area.
Great way to end 2023!🎉🎊🎉🎊🎉
Cherise Johnson - MS — Google review
Nice clean park. Food is food and rides are top notch. Our home park is cedar point but we like to make this a yearly trip.
We went to see a movie that had been running for sometime but for a Friday night it was still not crowded. And we were happy about that for obvious reasons. It was clean and the staff was friendly. You cannot reserve seating here but it hasn’t been a problem so far since it does not get crowded like other theaters.
S Amin — Google review
Average theater. Movie quality is good. Sound quality is good. The theater is clean. It has lots of screens giving you multiple movie options. For as much as they charge for drinks and popcorn ALL sizes should be free refills. There is no popcorn flavoring to add but you can add as much butter and salt as you like.
Brian (WolfmanJack99) — Google review
Ordered tickets online to see Equalizer 3, movie theater was clean. Easy to pick up tickets from kiosk and the ticket employee checker was pleasant. Movie started on time, comfort seats, and overall good experience. Popcorn was fresh and warm. Will visit again in the future.
Renee Randolph-Gordon — Google review
Came here on a Saturday around 1pm. to see the new Aquaman movie. Tickets were super cheap $6.50 even though the movie was after 12 pm. Theater is pretty big and spacious. They don't have a full food menu, just the normal popcorn, nachos, hot dogs, ice es, etc...the theater seating is auditorium seating, and there are no assigned seating. If you still like the thrill of getting there early and getting dibbs on the best seating, then this theater is for you. Never the less, it was not that busy, and we still had plenty of seats to choose from. All employees were super polite and friendly. I would definitely be back if I'm ever in the area. This is in a shopping center so there is plenty of parking to choose from. Also, there are a ton of great restaurants around, so if you want to get dinner before or after a movie, there are plenty of spots to choose from.
Jennifer — Google review
Watch your pockets. Left the theater after a premier showing and noticed I'd left my wallet. Had not even left the parking lot yet. Upon getting back to the front desk not even 10 minutes later. No clerk to be found or manager and all doors locked. Had it been my keys I'd have had to contact police in order to even get home. Waited at front for 30 minutes still before finally giving up.
Fire Travis Pope — Google review
Make sure you keep your ticket stubs! In case the movie glitches like it did today. My son was there watching a movie and 40 minutes in, the movie cut out. Of course my son had already lost his stub. Manger, Renee did nothing to make the situation right. $9 down the drain.
Suggestion, give out a voucher the next time that happens. Not everyone keeps their ticket stub.
Krissy Vessels — Google review
Modern movie theater, lots of screens, convenient location with loads of free parking. What's not to like? .... It's 11 years old now, and the seats, while comfortable, aren't as good as the very best recliner seats, but they're not bad seats.
Pulaski — Google review
Be careful and always pay with cash. The girl at the box office charges 6 times of what’s the price of your 1 ticket. I asked for 1 ticket and payed with my debit card. I asked for a receipt and she then said oh I made a mistake I charged you for 6 tickets instead of 1. She said she’ll pay me the over charged amount back in cash. If I didn’t ask for a receipt I would’ve never known. She didn’t expect me to ask for a receipt. Most people don’t want it. This is unacceptable and I will not go back again.
R Rem. — Google review
Very nice and iconic looking in the outside and lobby. All is great! But... the seating and screens leave a lot to be desired. The selection is always lacking. The prices are the same as AMC, and the seats are not as good.
Let's leave it like this: I live 3 minutes from Sun Valley 14, and after going to the movies here once... I decided to go to the closest AMC for my movies... 35 minutes away.
Sorry, guys!
S.W. Stryker — Google review
Not what I remember. It was meticulous at one time. Not now. Rather dirty with garbage all around. Reminds me of a business in decline. How about some pride in the place and better management decisions.
Timothy Hindes — Google review
STOP CLOSING THE CONCESSIONS WHILE MOVIES ARE STILL PLAYING.
I understand you have to clean up, but when you close concessions hours before movies are done playing, that is just rude.
Don't buy the unlimited tub for a movie that starts after 9. You will not get any refills for popcorn or drinks. Movies run until midnight sometimes, but concessions close by 10pm. They will take your money for all the refillable items, and then just ditch you.
I recommend bringing your own drinks and snacks.
Cynthia M. — Google review
The picture and audio quality was good. The seats were well used and not very sturdy. The theatre looked like it would be nicer, but the seats were some of worst I've ever sat in.
B Hoffman — Google review
Nice theater with all the new movies and plenty of times to choose from. Always clean inside. They even do a special price on Tuesdays which is nice. Typical arm and a leg for popcorn and drinks but that's normal for movie theaters. They also serve beer and wine.
Parker Phillips — Google review
Long entry line, only one person as a cashier (on a Saturday night!). Popcorn is very good, drinks too. A little pricey but not a bad experience at all.
H. Jason Davenport — Google review
We go occasionally but my son and his friends and his girlfriend go alot! I know that I can drop them off for a movie and either wait in the parking lot without being bothered or come and pick them up and they are safe.
Kristina Bailey — Google review
Awesome theater that's never too crowded. Nestled in a great shopping center with restaurants. The facility is always clean, and the ticket prices are good. Plenty to do around the theater before or after! Good seats, good picture, good sound quality.
Tyler O. — Google review
Clean, affordable, and my family always has fun. The seating allows EVERYONE to be able to see the screen with the stadium style seating.
Brandy Prunty — Google review
This place is amazing! Very clean, reasonable prices, and right in our own backyard (so to speak). It's great to have a great movie theater right here in town. #belocal
Quaint park featuring landscaped gardens & lawns, a variety of blooming flowers & a spring festival.
Wow!!! This place is an absolute gem in Rock Hill, and plenty of parking and no fee to go through! Lots or people were taking family pictures, so that spoils the peace a bit, but the fountains and benches are a great way to relax. Best to go in early April when everything is in bloom and colorful. Will definitely go back again and again!!
Val Apthorp Ponce de Leon — Google review
Lovely community park. It was a bit difficult to maneuver with stroller as there are steps and to find a ramp option took you further than we would initially look. Some features could benefit from pressure washing but everyone had a good time. Bathrooms are available at site, parking is free, and there are many metal bench swings. Although much is shaded, a towel was useful to drive off benches in AM and to sit on when they got hot in afternoon sun.
Krystal B — Google review
Nice park, beautiful flowers and fountains.
The place is very clean and bushes and flowers are well maintained.
This park is perfect for a nice walk with your family, photo shoots, or picnics, just make sure to clean after yourself because the park is so nice!
Dog friendly (on a leash).
There are public restrooms available.
Free parking
I’m sure is better to visit in spring to see all the flowers bloomed.
Veronica — Google review
I would say one time visit place if you are in the area and have some spare time. Not properly maintained. If properly maintained, this place can turn into a fun place to visit with family and kids. There are water fountains but the water is dirty. Can bring your dog for the walk here.
Abhishek Sohane — Google review
Great spot for a picnic! We had the pleasure of meeting one of the park employees who gave us a whole history on the park and the doctor and the family that bought the grounds. It’s a beautiful place to take a short stroll, eat lunch and take pictures.
Jenny D (Citybird_Adventures) — Google review
Absolutely beautiful scenery.
I enjoy watching the turtles sunbathe. This was my first time there & im definitely looking forward to going back soon.
Anne Tucker — Google review
The garden was not very pretty as it had been in the past. The grounds have not been maintained and I was really disappointed. We won’t be using this park for pictures this year. I know it’s kinda off season but there were dead weeds everywhere. Old flowers that had died… it just looked a little abandoned to me.
Angel Angel — Google review
It is beautiful! The large fountains are well cared for. You will see turtles, birds, bumble bees and lizards when you go. Every walking path but one just leads back on itself so you can walk which ever direction you like. There are bathrooms and much of it is done well enough for wheel chair accessibility. They have e two posts for doggy bags, but better to bring your own. We will be going back. The picture and video I provide are from a GoPro Hero 9.
Andrea Hallman — Google review
Found a cool place in Rock Hill! We went to walk through Glencairn Garden and it's very beautiful and relaxing. They have a few ponds with fish and turtles with tons of lilypads and weeping willows, which was beautiful. They also had a very cool cascading fountain, which was very nice, with benches and seat swing to help you relax and enjoy the view. People were also lying out in the sun and having picnicks. The garden itself is a pretty good size and they have tons of different plants and flowers with walkways all the way through and around the garden. We also saw a very large bird but were unsure of what type of bird it was but was very cool nonetheless. They DO have restrooms towards the back of the garden and it is wheelchair accessible. They have a kids' garden, but it is under construction, but it sounds like it will be nice when it's finished. With all that being said, in one of the creeks we were walking by we heard a frog going crazy, and when we looked we saw a small copperhead snake so you have to watch your surroundings while going through some of the paths and trails!!!! Be Careful!! Overall it's a hidden gem that some people in Rockhill don't even know about and it's worth stopping and checking out.
Ashley Oldman — Google review
This garden is lovely, a great space of peace and views. We went Easter weekend and there were so many beautiful flowers and plants EVERYWHERE I recommended you take a stroll
Sephora Allen — Google review
Absolutely breathtaking. Beautiful garden, so worth the visit.
Kristen Griffis — Google review
Beautiful Veteran’s Day ceremony. Such a nice thing for the city to do to honor their vets, recognize their ROTC, and memorialize POW/MIA. Would love to see this event publicized more and to allow for more to be done to honor the vets in our communities. Beautiful gardens we would love to come back to visit again!
Still Traveling — Google review
This was the nicest place to visit. I got to Rock Hill about 2.5 hours before my appointment and wanted to just spend time outside. Glencairn Garden was very easy to find with plenty of parking in the perimeter. There was a rest room facility and after sitting out in the sun for a bit I was able to walk around the oaths and found some shaded areas to sit as well. It was the most pleasant intro to Springtime!!
Liz Bell — Google review
What a beautiful and well maintained garden! From the plants, shrubs and trees to the hardscapes and ponds - all are wonderful. The Veteran’s Memorial garden is such a wonderful tribute to those who have served our country. There are many different types of gardens in Glencairn including a shade, friendship, children’s and even a Victory garden that was recently started. Jessica and the crew who keep this garden in such great shape are amazing. Well worth the drive for my garden club from the Lake Norman area. We will be back.
Sharan Carlisle — Google review
I visited in winter and it’s not a flowering as I’m sure it would be in spring or summer, but it was a very pretty place to walk around and enjoy the fresh crisp air. Looks like it was a popular place to have family photos taken and I’m sure any other photos like prom or homecoming photos done there. Worth the walk though and I’m sure it’s even more beautiful with everything is in bloom and the fountains are going.
jackie Shi — Google review
It’s a cute little park, with lots of azaleas now in bloom (March 2023)! I love that it’s dog-friendly! Our pup enjoyed her stroll and I snapped some cute pictures of her while there.
One drawback is that it’s small. We walked around the entire park in 20 minutes. If you are staying in Fort Mill, it’s a 20-minute drive for a relatively short walk at these gardens. If you are there to sit down on one of the benches or swings to enjoy the weather, or enjoy a picnic, then maybe it’s worth the drive. We went to get a walk in and exercise our pup after an entire morning of sitting in the hotel room, and felt like it was such a brief experience. Definitely go to a state park instead if you are looking to get some steps in.
Community area with a lawn & event space, plus a circular fountain with illuminated displays.
Really awesome around Christmas. Fun throughout year too. For walking, hanging and of course food truck fridays.
Daddy B — Google review
Park is well maintained.
Beautiful flowers in spring
The fountain is so pretty and even prettier at night with the lights on.
On Christmas they put up some Christmas lights and Christmas tree, and there is an ice rink next to the park in winter.
I usually walk my dog in this park.
Parking is free and very easy to find a spot, plenty of spaces available.
Veronica — Google review
This is a beautiful fountain and perfect place for pictures. My husband and I have visited a few times and loved it.
Times Freight — Google review
I love this place. Beautiful. Gorgeous church next to it. Ample parking. And on the 3rd Friday of the month until September, they're having this awesome event called Food Truck Friday. Fountain Park is nice.
William Vaux — Google review
Lovely addition to the city of Rock Hill! Especially beautiful at night. I have some concerns with its safety due to loitering. It’s in an area that sees a good deal of loitering. Which is odd since the police station is in this location too. Not all loiterers are dangerous but some can be. The fountain are appears clean and well kept though.
Ms. G — Google review
Beautiful place at night with all of the trees lit up surrounding it
Kenisa Joiner — Google review
Such a nice place to sit and chill. The water fountain is very meditative. Love going here to relax.
Timothy Smith — Google review
Beautiful fountain in Rock Hill downtown. The water dances at different rhythms and it is a pleasure to watch. In my opinion, the best fountain in the Carolinas.
Francisco Cappai — Google review
The fountains put on a great show. I have passed by many times but never stopped. There are about 7 rows of water streams that make water dance, splash and raise to over 30 feet.
Roughneck Johnson — Google review
My family and I go on our early morning strolls here. The best time to visit will be in the early hours of the day. It gets packed on the weekend, but the fountain and the synchronization of the geysers are well worth going with family and friends. God bless.
Alvin Ceasear — Google review
It is super lovely to walk through in the dark. Amazingly so‼️
Brian Barkley — Google review
Great place! Absolutely beautiful! Very clean, well maintained. Good place to take the family or someone special. There is a small open field nearby to let kids run and play.
Note: if the sounds and or sights of running, rushing water squeezes your bladder and make you want to go to the restroom, go before you arrive for there are no restrooms there, at least I didn't see any.
Eric Ransone — Google review
Awesome place to have a date night for sure. I proposed to my wife in the field across from the fountain. Very lovely green area with plenty of seating. Can be used as entertainment venue. Kids also love the fountain park, we probably visit the park 4 times a year, usually town events are held in or near this park. Located in the center of old town Rock Hill, which also has many interesting views, eats and venues if you so choose to walk about.
Dan Torrico — Google review
It was a great place to visit and work. Myself and 3 others decorated 65 lamp poles on Main Street from Fountain Park to Dave Lyle Boulevard for the Holidays. Enjoy our fabulous job with the bows and garland. It looks amazing. I wish I could share my photos but I can't.
Jeffrey Bartlett — Google review
Such a great park good for anyone to relax and take in the world.
Chi Guy — Google review
4.8
(1950)
•
4.5
(90)
300 E Main St, Rock Hill, SC 29730, USA
19
Treehouse Vineyards
Winery
Food & Drink
Event venue
Live music venue
Vineyard
Wine store
Wineries & Vineyards
Always a treat coming out to Treetop Vineyards! Today we enjoyed live music on a sunny fall day sampling our favorite local white wine. The mood is always relaxed, and the staff is on point with their suggestions and assistance. We will highly recommend this little gem in Monroe, for any wine enthusiast in the Charlotte area 😊
Michael R. Ingelsby — Google review
Surprisingly Wonderful! We had Friends visiting from Iowa in Charlotte, so we drove down to meet them on Sunday. We found only 2 vineyards in the area open on Sunday, so we drove past Dover and decided it wasn't for us and made a reservation for tasting at Treehouse! A beautiful drive to the vineyard, a wonderfully welcoming staff greeted us, and we were able to shop the lovely gift collection before our tasting. To our surprise, there was a beautiful Israeli history area attached with a lovely mock-up of the original tabernacle, dreidel collection, a lighted mock-up of Anne Frank House, and so much more! We said it was meant to be for us to come here! The wines are lovel. The tasting with the history of the vineyard, its family, and treehouse stories is delightful! You will not want to miss this💎 gem of a vineyard! Beautiful land and wines!
Sherry Short — Google review
Nice place to be in peace, nature. Thanks to the man who help me back up. Don't park in the rocks unless u know how to drive 🤣 the wine 🍷 is SOOO delicious 😋 Good place for wedding or honeymooners ☺️
Kizzie Haynes — Google review
Nice winery in the Charlotte area. Great wine, salsa and other wine related food. Nice grounds.
Kara Holmes — Google review
Giving one star for the atmosphere!
I’ve been here for many times, but today was something horrible! The wine is great, the view and atmosphere is amazing, but some stuff shouldn’t be there! Few months ago, like 4, we didn’t paid for kids, today we paid the same price for a 3YO like for an adult! Insane! And then, Miss Karen walked at our table and saw a kids water bottle and even didn’t smell it, just dumped it in the middle of the area where the kids played. So sad, was a good place for parents and kids, but is not anymore.
Doina Dogari — Google review
Five of us stayed in there biggest treehouse for the weekend Horsefeathers hideaway. Inside and outside was clean. We all had such a wonderful time relaxing. There wine was really good and everyone was so nice. I have already recommended family and friends to visit here.
Jon T — Google review
It was my first time there and enjoyed an afternoon out for a friend's birthday. The grounds and staff were super great and they have a decent selection of wines made on site and other wine accessories/decor! Can't wait to go back!
Jake Gordon — Google review
The rehearsal dinner for my daughter was beautiful here! They also supplied our wine and beer for the wedding and it was prompt, correct and delicious! Thank you for being so easy to work with!!! The food was great, the people friendly and the atmosphere laid back and fun!
Tiffany Hawkins — Google review
I really hope someone sees this, I loved this winery.
I have visited many times over the last 10 years. My most recent visit was Christmas Eve Day.
My son planned a tasting for us and his wife's family. They booked 12 o'clock, were told to arrive 10 minutes early, the place isn't even open. The tasting hostess shuffles us in, sat us at 2 separate tables and then seemed to speed through the wine tasting. This was my least favorite visit, I understand keeping time and schedules but her manner made it very unpleasant.
Signs posted no outside food, when you used to allow picnics, website still says you can,why did this change?
This was a very negative experience. The tastings should be more laid back as they once were. Her attitude may have been about having to work at Christmas time, I just know we dropped over 300$ for a 30 minute rush through and rush us out. We had planned to bring lunch there. The property used to feel inviting, about love and family, not just profit .
Anastasia M — Google review
My visit was spectacular. The staff is very friendly. They have a lot of different activities. The day I went was a Chili competition and a live band entertainment. We tasted all of their wines; loved them. It was my birthday, and we purchased 6 bottles plus other stuff. I highly recommend this place 👌.
Joann Smith — Google review
Our first time here. My Wife took me there for my birthday for a reserved wine 🍷 tasting. It was really nice and our hostess Mia was awesome. All of the staff that we came in contact with were great. So come in and support a local vineyard to do a wine tasting, their wines are so good. They even have 3 different tree houses that you can reserve to chill in with a 4th one coming soon. Too much to say about this place so I hope the pics will tell all I have to say. We will definitely be coming back to reserve one of the bigger treehouses.
DC Roy — Google review
I was visiting family who know my love of fine vino and this is the winery they chose. It was fabulous! It was a Monday and, as expected, it wasn't busy. I would LOVE to return on a weekend when they have live entertainment. It's set up to be a great outdoor venue. It even has a tree house you can rent by the hour & hang out in while the band plays! The wine is EXCELLENT. We did a tasting...well worth itI I love sweet wine & most of their offerings were SWEET & PERFECT to me! The tasting was not just a tasting, it was a very interesting & entertaining story of the winery itself, & the owners. We actually got to meet the lovely lady in the parking lot as we were leaving. I purchased a few bottles; wish I got more. Got some cool souvenirs. I will visit again!
Adrienne Lanuti Howanitz — Google review
What a shame....really neat atmosphere and pretty lake with lots of seating. No pets allowed, not sure why they have plenty of seating all around to space people out. Went to order my wine inside and both ladies were rude and seemed like I was a bother to them. She poured the wrong wine and old us, "well I already poured it." Looked at us like we had no other option. Really a shame, if they had more welcoming staff, it would make a huge difference. Been wanting to come here for awhile but won't be back.
Megan Zeyher — Google review
Had a blast! Did the tasting and candle making and stayed for 80/90 party. Everyone was so fun and hospitable. Stayed in treehouse which is cute and in great shape! Would definitely come back soon.
Andrew Jackson State Park is a park with historical significance in the area where Andrew Jackson grew up. The park provides visitors with a museum, educational programs, and opportunities for camping and fishing. It features walking trails that require some repairs as they appear to have been neglected over time. Despite this, it remains one of the most beautiful state parks to visit due to its peacefulness and cleanliness.
This is a nice park combined with history. I only walked the circle with the museum and historic markers to include a large statue of young Andrew Jackson on a horse. I was going to walk one of the trails but it was getting late and my girls were so tired from the trip.
Tilly Lo — Google review
Pretty park, with a beautiful walkway around the pond. Older park, in need of updates but the restrooms were clean & the sites were pretty good. Only negative is the traffic noise - took away from the sounds of nature & true camping experience for me. I feel the pricing should reflect this and be reduced for this park. But we did feel safe and enjoyed all the walking/hiking areas and all the firefly's lightening up the night skies ☺️
Stephanie B — Google review
We live a few minutes away and is a very beautiful park. But it will need some repairs throughout the walking trails as it looks like it has been neglected for awhile.
David Garcia — Google review
We rented the Meeting House for a family get together. Wonderful building with a ramp at the back. Individual bathrooms and very basic kitchen area. Plenty of room inside for everyone.
David Shook — Google review
Everyone is different. For me a small quite park is amazing. Sitting beside a small lake with the sun coming up with a hot cup of coffee is heaven. This park is a little tight to drive thru with my 30’ TT but most sites are angled nice so easy to back in.
Richard Mack — Google review
One of the most beautiful state park we have visited. Very peaceful and clean park. We will be back.
Jimmy Edmonds — Google review
Very nice campground at A beautiful state park. Camped lakeside and enjoyed great Facilities. Bathroom and shower Facilities were very clean and the host was very friendly. They offer boat rentals and fishing as well as a small museum.
Marty Emigh — Google review
Went for a walk. It was quiet except for the locals firing guns in the distance. Typical Sunday afternoon in the South so I'm used to it. Nature walk was only a mile but it was well kept and fairly easy to traverse in Crocs! Most of the trail is covered in pine needles. There's several trail markers and educational plaques about Andrew Jackson. There is a replica meeting house. I did not venture near the actual birthplace house but maybe on my next visit!
Carlos B Rich — Google review
Amazing safe place to just relax and camp! Me and my daughter caught 4 fish! She was excited lol oh and this year they are going to drain the lake for repairs so be aware of call them
David Erdy — Google review
1st time i have been here and attended a wedding.it was very besutiful and will be back soon to explore the whole park
Stephanie Owen — Google review
Went to the annual lamp light tour. There were stops along the way with actors portraying life in the 1700s and Andrew Jackson. It was well done and a lot of fun
Shannon Radzunas — Google review
Very clean, well maintained park with nice RV campsites. We camped in a 34' motorhome and had plenty of room. Park offers water and electric hookups at each site, along with a picnic table and firepit. Sites are nicely paved and level. Good bath/shower house available as well. Beautiful lake view from several sites. RV dump station onsite.
Michele Pappagallo — Google review
We had such a fun time camping here! Between the museum, the hiking trail, and the playground there was so much fun stuff to do! I was really impressed at how well the bathroom facilities were maintained. Super clean! The playground area needs a little bit of maintenance but my kids didn't mind.
Hannah Edwards — Google review
great place to hang out, very peaceful with beautiful nature. Also includes a designated play area for kids
Lena K — Google review
Andre Jackson State Park is a hidden gem nestled in the lush greenery of Lewis County, New York. Spread across 1,200 acres, the park offers visitors a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and boating. The park's centerpiece is its pristine lake, which provides a tranquil and scenic backdrop for picnics, swimming, and kayaking. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the park's diverse ecosystem, which features rare plant and animal species, including the endangered bog turtle. With its natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, Andre Jackson State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
JC RXN — Google review
4.5
(1048)
•
4.0
(69)
196 Andrew Jackson Park Rd, Lancaster, SC 29720, USA
Kyle and company were total Pros!
Boats were clean, team was friendly and helpful!
Things were ready as promised.
Holly was helpful and answered all of the questions I had.
We will be doing it again!
chip morris — Google review
This was a great experience from beginning to end . I called the day before we wanted to go out on the lake and to my surprise we had plenty of options. Boat was super clean and in excellent condition. We were given clear and precise instructions about what to do and not do . Deposit was refunded quickly upon examining that no damage was done . Will definitely use them again !!
Stefania — Google review
Booked a Pontoon Boat online for around $500 for a Half the Day on 07/16/2022. Check in time was at 11:30am to 5pm.The boat was beautiful and amazingly all to us (party of 5) We had such a wonderful time plenty of beautiful and interesting thing to see and the best part of it is when we needed to cool off. We just drop anchor and jumped in lake to cool off (we did that four different time) and also enjoyed lunch at one of the few dock-restaurant on Lake Murray (shot out to Cat-Fish Joe’s) the teriyaki wings were delicious and to top it off a live band was playing sweet music outside-- we will definitely visit again
Con: Customer service needs improvement. I had to ask different personnel for direction during check-in time and Return time. Same thing just needed better help of direction instead of assuming that all customer should know what to where to and how to.
Pro:Everything else went well. The safety instructor and the guide coach “who was with us” stay until we were comfortable to take over the wheel. The pontoon boat was beautiful, comfortable and well maintain. I forgot my bag in one of the seats (all seats are storage space) and didn’t realize it until we got home. I call to report it and shortly after they call to report that they found the bag. At that time they were closed but stayed open for me to pick up my belongings. we will definitely visit again
Puni Moa — Google review
Reservations were easy. The staff, specifically Holly, was awesome. Considering it has been 20 years since I managed a boat from behind the wheel, Holly took her time and oriented me with patience and made me feel comfortable within minutes. I had so much fun before I knew it the day was over. I look forward to the next time. Once more thing, the boat itself was like new.
D — Google review
Absolutely best spot to rent a boat! Boats are always clean and in great shape. The location/marina is just perfect for parking. Dog friendly! Easy to get in and out for those not fully comfortable navigating a boat. The service is great - we had terrible weather on the day we we were booked for and (even though the cancellation policy is firm) they rebooked us for the following day. The best experience ever with amazing sunshine and cool breeze! We will be back!
kk. — Google review
Good selection of boats to choose from. Ended up Renting a Specialty pontoon( 13 person capacity) to take out some family i had in town. (8 people total.) very comfortable fit. Online reservation was super easy. Morning check-in to get boat was very smooth and simple. Shay was very thorough and made check-in process very easy. They even let us add a tube last minute with out any issues! 10/10 experience. 100% will be renting from them again!
kyle glantz — Google review
We really enjoyed our day at the lake on the pontoon boat rental. The boat was brand new, very comfortable and smooth riding. The rental process was simple and we would rent with them again if we come back.
Julie Koehler — Google review
Absolutely the best rental in South Carolina! The lake was gorgeous. The water was clear and had basically the lake to ourselves. We Went all over the lake and used quarter of a tank for the full 8 hours. We are already scheduling our next outing. Kyle and the rest of the staff at Better boating Rental was super helpful and overall it was phenomenal place to rent. Thank you so much!
Elizabeth Campbell — Google review
We recently rented a luxury pontoon for the THIRD time through Better Boating in Irmo. As usual, we had a great experience out on beautiful Lake Murray. Luke was so kind and informative. He explained everything in detail so that we knew how to have a safe day out on the lake. We highly recommend Better Boating!
Angela W — Google review
Rented a pontoon for full day. Staff was informative and organized. Vessel was clean and orderly, everything worked properly and explained well. Had a great day and covered 65 miles on the water.
I would recommend!
Dave Puzzo — Google review
Will be renting from here for now on. The process was super easy. The customer service was great. THE BOAT WAS BEAUTIFUL & CLEAN. I tried going through 2 other companies around the Lake Murray area: one cancelled (vacation) and another one said something about possible water levels. I can understand both, however, explained that on your website before I attempt to book. Overall, this is now my go to spot.
POV: rented for my bf’s birthday weekend
Carissa Waddell — Google review
This was my first time boating with Better Boating and I must say it was well worth it. From the customer service, the organization of things, the friendliness, the cleanliness, etc. It was all perfect. Myself and my family of 10 rented a pontoon for 7 hours and Will and Shae were our crew members. They were absolutely great and informative and super friendly people. This was an overall great experience and I will be booking with them again!
Parks — Google review
Connie was Amazing. She was so helpful with my travel group and our service dogs. I called in so many times because my group had so many questions, and Connie was patient and everytime I called, it was as if it was my first time calling. Excellent customer 👌 service. The boat was perfect it was clean and the perfect amount of space. The whole team at Better Boating were Amazing 👏 I highly recommend this company. Definitely coming back every year.
lusesita santos — Google review
Our family took Bravo out for the day to explore the lake and just joy ride. The boat was in great shape and handled very well. It was clean and ready at the dock when we arrived. Check in was seamless as was gassing up and return. The best part was being able to bring our dog with us! Thank you for being dog friendly!
Magen Hunt — Google review
This is a must do if you want to explore Lake Murray. Staff friendly, knowledgeable and kind. Boat condition, pristine. We will be renting again, what a great day on the water.
Roxann Levitsky — Google review
I've rented fishing and luxury pontoon boats from Better Boating - Irmo numerous times. Their fleet of boats are always very clean and in great condition--never had any problems. The on-line booking is super easy and their office and dock staff are very friendly and professional. I highly recommend them if your looking to spend a great day out on Lake Murray...you won't be disappointed!
Museum charting the Revolutionary War & colonial era in an 18th-century mansion on an old estate.
Self-guided adult tickets $10 USD each. Buildings from the 1700's to 1800's. Docent said piano in 1st pic dates from 1795-1805. Liked the ability to explore on our own. Had fun!
A Campbell — Google review
Excellent recreation/ restoration of pre-revolutionary war America. We lucked out and met a historian from the project who explained some very neat facts about the buildings, the grounds, the project timeline and scope… lots of great stuff happening here. Wonderful walk around the grounds — I particularly liked the redoubts.
Joshua Harvey — Google review
I enjoyed a lovely evening at Historic Camden’s Jollification event on Dec 3. The 1800 little building was cozy with decor, candles, and live, period music. A variety of drinks were available, both with alcohol and without and enjoyed at a wonderful table while playing old timey board games. One hour is sufficient time spent at this event. I’ll be back!
Shannon Houser — Google review
A great place to learn about the history of our town and the Revolutionary War. There are lots of events/activities that go on here every month. They have house tours, lantern tours, tea parties, craft classes, and demonstrations happening all the time.
We come and walk the grounds and the nature trail alot. The trail is short and flat, but if it has rained it will be muddy in places. It runs along the Pine Tree Creek.
Beth McK — Google review
I love getting to visit this historic site. The Revolutionary War played such an integral role in American history, and it’s wonderful to be able to visit a site where part of this history took place. They have made a number of nice changes to the site, it is well-maintained, and the gift shop is really nice. I would certainly recommend visiting went in the area.
Robert Wilson — Google review
A growing Historic Site with late 18th/early 19th Century structures, reconstructed period buildings, and recreations of period buildings near the site of Camden, SC during the American Revolution. The staff and your guides are friendly and knowledgeable, pay extra for the guided tour.
Mac McCormick III — Google review
Due to an upcoming event, most parts were not accessible. However, very knowledgeable staff gave us a lot of information about the site and we enjoyed exploring what we could. We will definitely be back.
Gloria Gaddy — Google review
I love this place! We stopped here on the way to visit friends. I am so glad we did. We arrived on the perfect day. The second Saturday of every month they have a reenactment. The volunteers dress in period costume and demonstrate many aspects of life in the time period. George Washington makes an appearance and I think there is a parade. We had a wonderful time and learned a lot. I would recommend this stop for anyone of any age.
Penelopebananapants — Google review
Stopped here to check out the battlefield in Camden. There are several historic buildings you can tour and some reconstructed fortifications that were part of cornwallis's headquarters during the southern campaign in and around Camden. Tickets can be purchased at the gift shop to tour the buildings. I spent a couple hours wandering around the site. Staff was very helpful and knowledgeable and I enjoyed my time here.
Christopher Caudle — Google review
Had a wonderful time listening to the recordings in the museum and learning of Camdens role. The staff was very friendly and informative. Had small children with me and they also enjoyed it, especially the search and find animals. Plus it was free.
Nanette Schmader — Google review
Very interesting and informative historical site. Visited after listening to the Mission History podcast about the Revolutionary War. Everyone was very informative and knowledgeable about the history and even made recommendations about other points of interest in the area. Would definitely recommend visiting this site!
Donald Johnson Jr — Google review
Great informative and interesting time visiting the historical village of Camden. Highly recommend that you do it with the guide as you learn so much more about it than just doing it alone. Takes about 60-120m so not a quick stop but worth it overall. Super nice people in a great American town.
Mark Schurer — Google review
Elizabeth is very knowledgeable and is a wonderful public speaker. It was a great night with my daughter and SIL. We will be back often!
Lori Perrin — Google review
Very interesting visitor center - free to check out the main exhibit and I believe to walk the grounds. Clean restrooms & friendly staff / volunteers. Lots of history here! Ample parking & seemed to be dog friendly outside.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is a family-friendly zoo with African and Australian animals, reptile galleries, a bird house, a farm, and botanical gardens. The zoo features a splash pad with rubber surfaces that has been upgraded in the summer. There are also playhouses, treehouses, a large field with toys and games, a waterfall and 2 splash pads.
Riverbanks zoo reminds of Animal Kingdom set in good old Disney World without the financial hard ship going there. Riverbanks is simply an amazing zoo. I would recommend setting aside 3-4 hours to see everything, this of course is set with a two old in mind. We stopped and saw just about everything and even petted some very friendly goats. Some stuff does cost extra, $20 on the zoo card will be more than enough for two children.The giraffe feeding stops at 1:30pm so if that is on your agenda I would get in line early. We went on a Sunday and the crowds were not too bad. We will definitely become frequent visitors. 10/10 I highly recommend.
Tai Sanders — Google review
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is fabulous! We absolutely love it here and have been visiting regularly for 10+ years. The animal variety is second to none. The layout of the zoo flows very nice to ensure you can enjoy each stop to see all that it offers during your visits. The staff do a great job of keeping the zoo very clean and safe. They are very, attentive, and provide excellent service every time we are there. The expansions keep coming and continue improving and evolving this Zoo into one of the best visits you and your family can make.
If I was going to provide a critique, I would recommend more fans through out the park. South Carolina (especially in the midlands) can get very hot and humid during the summer months and that heat can make visiting the park a less than pleasant experience if you are not use to the heat down here (heck even if you are 😂). More fans through out the park would add to the already amazing atmosphere and help create some more much needed cool zones through out.
One last add. Please visit during the Halloween and Christmas events. They are fantastic and highly recommended. For adults the Brew at the Zoo is one of the best attractions around. Enjoy!
Jacob Gillen — Google review
This was an amazing experience! The $5 parking is worth it if you are wanting to go to the botanical gardens/splash pad first or last on your visit. The prices were fair for adults at $26 for how big of a zoo it is! There were some of every animal including giraffes you can feed, a kangaroo exhibit you can walk through, and sea lions you can stand next to. Animals included monkeys, gorillas, lions, tigers, snakes, birds of all kinds, goats, alpacas, bears, otters, tortoises, penguins, tropical fish, jellyfish, sea turtles, koalas, sloths, and so much more. I even tried out the ropes course within the zoo (requires shoes w/ heel strap) which was priced at $7 for non-members. It was a good ropes course for the price! I do recommend having a parent or older sibling go up with a younger child if they're new to ropes courses. The height can be a fear factor and the way the harness is attached to the top of the course can make it harder for smaller kids to reach in order to move around the course. As an adult, it's a fun add-on especially if you're looking for some more thrill with your zoo experience. The botanical gardens were gorgeous! They were located right next to the $5 parking and the tram. Overall, I really enjoyed visiting the Riverbanks Zoo and all of the staff here were polite and happy.
Michelle Luna — Google review
Wild Nights was awesome! Really looked great from the front gate fungi/coral to the animated creatures. Went on Black Friday with family in town for the holidays. Highly recommend buying tickets in advance as another group mentioned it was already sold out when we arrived right after 5pm. The kids loved that the train and carousel were both running.
The person at the gate was very helpful as we had multiple ticket purchases across several confirmation emails. Would definitely go again.
Jeremy Lane — Google review
A place where families can come and witness animals from around the world in a protected and safe environment. The Riverbanks Zoo rescues animals from around the globe to rehabilitate them and care for them with such love. The zoo is filled with a variety of animals ranging from tigers, lions, gorillas, and birds from all countries. This place is clean, family friendly, and caters to all ages. If you're ever in Columbia, SC, I would definitely recommend this place for a fun family outing. If you wish to take friends, you can purchase yearly passes that give you 4-8 guest passes, depending on your choice of yearly pass.
Alexander Nunez (Alex) — Google review
The zoo is well maintained, clean, and organized.
There’s a $5 dollar fee for the parking and they have plenty of parking spaces.
You can book in advance “behind the scenes” to pet some of the animals. (Check their website).
If you go early in the morning you can feed the giraffes.
There are plenty of restrooms around, some of them smell bad and are messy, specially
If the zoo is pretty busy.
The bird part smells bad but is just the smell of the birds. Just be aware.
They rent strollers
Gift shop available
They have photographers at the entrance with a giant green screen.
They have an interactive farm for kids, a carousel, and more.
Food and drinks from outside are not allowed.
Veronica — Google review
we love this place! this is my fourth time at the riverbanks zoo, and it's never failed to please. easy access, plenty of parking, affordable ticket prices (I recommend getting the extended bracelet deal, feeding the giraffes is part of it, and it's really worth it). the animals seem to be well taken care of, and if you go earlier in the day, you'll be able to see everyone waking up and hanging out (the otters were especially excited for the sunshine and company). definitely dress comfy and bring plenty of water! there's lots of shade and several drinking fountains, but it was nice to have our own on hand. this was our first time making it up to the gardens, and that was also really worth the trip up. the waterfall splash area is great for the kiddos in the heat. I believe there's a lot on the west side where you can park and the access is much easier for the gardens and play area. all around great time!
Heather Hitz — Google review
The zoo was awesome! There were a lot of nice animals, and the enclosures/habitats were more than adequate for the animals. Healthy animals! My favorite places to visit had the flamingos and the lions. They had a grizzly bear, which I had not seen before. The botanical gardens were nice, as well. Small, but nice. There is a tram that takes you from the zoo to the garden. It took me and my partner about 3.5 hours to do the zoo and the garden.
Mar Pepin — Google review
I visited her in the spring, and it was fantastic. We enjoyed feeding the giraffes. We were able to get up close to the gorillas even though their enclosure is going through renovations. I loved the sea lion exhibit. The aquarium had just recently opened back up and was super crowded. We were not able to check that out, but it looked super nice from the outside. My daughter and nephew loved all the activities this zoo offers. This zoo is very well kept, and the animals looked happy and healthy.
Marsha Dowdle — Google review
Went this past week with my nieces (1 yo) and they had a blast. There are lots of exhibits and we saw all of them and stayed for about 2 hours total. We were able to see all of the animals except the tiger(s). My nieces especially loved the aquarium and the penguin exhibit. We got to see them performing maintenance/cleaning in one of the aquarium tanks which was pretty cool. Also got to see a couple of young gorillas nursing. I would recommend bringing some bug spray and sunscreen. There’s a lot of tree cover and canopies at exhibits providing shade throughout the park but there are also areas in direct sunlight at many of the exhibits. The park overall was very clean and there was lots to do. Also recommend going during the week/off season as the temperature is cooler so you’re able to see more animals and it is WAY less busy. There were maybe a max of 5 other people at an exhibit with us. Did not see or visit the garden this time, but definitely have plans to visit next time. This was our 2nd time making the trip to this zoo and we will definitely be back!
Faith Lide — Google review
Beautiful and spacious zoo. There are unique animals that live here, that are not at a typical zoo. Lots of shade to keep you cool while viewing the animals. And very, very clean!
The enclosures have lots of space and the animals seemed happy and energetic, compared to other zoos I’ve visited. There are friendly zookeepers posted around the zoo to share interesting information on the animals. They were well informed and were able to answer all the questions we asked. My favorite part was visiting the Kangaroos. You are able to actually go inside the enclosure (while staying on the path) to view the kangaroos from a short distance without any fence or obstruction blocking your view. The experience felt up close, but was a safe distance away.
We enjoyed the trek up the trail to the garden through dense trees that felt like it’s own separate space from the zoo. The garden is well taken care of and has a calming atmosphere. We then rode the tram back down the trail where we were brought back to the zoo. It is nice the facility offers the tram at no extra cost.
Overall, we had a great time! This is probably my favorite zoo now.
Gabi Bambach — Google review
I visited with my kids here during the Christmas holidays. The weather was pleasant.
There was no wait line at the ticket counter.
The charges for kids and adults are almost the same.
It's not very big zoo but there are lots of animals and well maintained.
There are more than one lion, tiger, orangutan and many more.
There are different animal talk times for more information.
With special bands you can go near few animals like giraffe, feed birds and play games.
Sometimes the layout gets confusing but it's small enough to trace the steps back.
The alligator 🐊 was not there.
There are lots of picnic tables.
I could go near kangaroo 🦘.
Zoo rangers are always nearby and helpful with information or directions.
There are many eating outlets.
It's a good to spend with kids.
Archie — Google review
The zoo was pretty big, and had a good selection of animals. Compared to other zoos I've visited, it was ok. Animals were on the smaller size, and the one grizzly bear we saw looked like he had mange (fur was patchy in several places). The plus for me was that you can take the free tram to the botanical gardens which was included in the ticket price. That was my favorite part. Walking through the gardens was a nice outing, and there were places with seating, food, activities, and a splash park for kids. Overall I enjoyed it.
Tonya — Google review
I would recommend getting here EARLY and leaving before 1-2pm. It gets extremely busy after lunch time, but aside from that I had a wonderful time! I had to bring my service dog with me and the staff were respectful and understanding! There are some places you aren’t allowed to go with a service animal but that is understandable and totally fine! Bathrooms were kept clean and smelled fine, there wasn’t trash or debris everywhere. The animals confinements looked clean and well taken care of which was a favorite of mine! I will say it took a while to get our food when we went up to a food truck. This was at lunch time and the place was getting pretty crowded by then. I had an absolute blast here and will definitely come back.
Jayden Cash — Google review
I dropped in unexpectedly, looking to get some steps in. Lots of trails and flora. Many places to sit and take a load off.
You can walk from the garden to the zoo, it's only 3/10 mile. Zoo was a bit more crowded, but pretty cool....and they sell beer 😁.
Check out Saluda Ruins, BEAUTIFUL walk and an interesting story. I was there for about 2 hours and got in my 10k steps.
Erik Summers — Google review
Well worth the visit! I went with my wife and 2 kiddos, oldest is 9. We really liked the aquarium with a wide variety of up close exhibits. The ocean exhibit had numerous "Coming Soon" attractions. Note that to ride the carousel or do the climbing wall, you must buy extra tickets like at a carnival, but the prices are not ridiculous. When we went, the carousel cost $2 per ride. We also let our daughter try the high ropes obstacle course. This was another fee ($7 per person) but well worth it. Mom and Dad enjoyed the bridge and trails to the botanical gardens, which was included with the zoo admission. Great family outing!
Jarrod Reed — Google review
Free zoo map is available. I was able to see all the animals so close. Was also able to feed a giraffe and brush the goats. They are very cute. Don't forget to get some merchandises too on the way to the parking lot.
Andita Meilyana — Google review
I've always loved the zoo, and now I get the joy of taking my girls. I do suggest a membership as it pays for itself and tickets are pricey but it's worth it. We usually take snacks with us and we have the souvenir cups. We love doing boo at the zoo and the lights at the zoo
Angel Watters — Google review
Such a great place to bring the family to! The kids loved seeing the animals and learning about all them. Love their aquarium area too! So neat to see them all and watch the kids eyes light up with joy over seeing how they live. If you haven’t gone yet I’d strongly suggest going asap!
Danielle Ortega — Google review
Beautiful zoo, kept clean, prices are as you'd expect going to any big park these days. Good food variety, as well as snacks, drinks. Tons of animal exhibits, overall great for the fam & everyone!
Great parking options.
C Price — Google review
Took advantage of the last free Friday for this month. First time at the zoo and was not disappointed. Only spent about 2 1/2 hours but really enjoyed. I pretty much stuck to one side of the zoo this time and will explore the other half later on. Highly recommend. The only thing I wish they had was more food options but I’m not complaining because i know how that goes but I went prepared! Took my own food!
Annie Maiden Gipson — Google review
Very well put together Zoo and Gardens. There is a lot of various animals to see, such as gorillas, giraffes, kangaroos, grizzly bear, sea lions and so forth. I recommend you bring some water for your walk around this zoo you will be doing a lot of walking especially if you want to walk across the pedestrian bridge.
There are a couple different options you can take to get to and from the Zoo side and the Botanical Garden side. One way is taking the Woodland Trail beginning on the garden side. Next would be taking the walking path that runs along the Tram Road it is rather steep. Finally is the Tram with are two Ford Super Duty Pickups with three “wagons” attached behind each pickup it will take you to and from the Zoo side and the Garden side. There however is usually a wait for the Tram. We chose to walk the path along the Tram road.
This Zoo was extremely crowded. It is probably best if you try to go on a weekday. We went on a Saturday it was extremely busy. I highly recommend checking out the gift shop and buying a souvenir. This is one of the best Zoos I have been to.
Jake Young — Google review
We had a great time,animals were cool food was good and wait times were a bit long on a few things but other wise it was great, it’s very nice and nothing is to far apart so it’s not that bad when walking from place to place extra things were very affordable being 2 dollars a person just so you know the zoo does a coin system kind of so if you want to do an extra and you had 3 people it would 6 dollars with each coin being 1 dollar a piece,extras were very cool with the extras being feeding giraffes,feeding birds and other things. I would recommend getting to the zoo as early as possible because it gets crowded very fast you could get to see more things actually moving and running around and that’s just a few things to keep in mind.
Mc Bojangles — Google review
God have us an absolutely perfect day for our visit! It was 75°, partly cloudy, and a gentle breeze. Although it was fairly busy, everyone moved along through all the exhibits quickly. I'd have to say that our group's highlights were feeding the Coconut Lorikeet, walking among the kangaroos, and visiting the botanical garden (took the tram up). It's a great place for kids of all ages. The garden has quite a few play areas of all different themes and many water features. The kids were having a blast in the water activities. They even have a cabana for bathing suit changes. It's a "must see" if you're in the area. We'll be visiting again in the future.
Patricia Vasko — Google review
Came to the zoo in the morning. Most animals were out as breakfast was being served to some of the animals. It was pleasant that the weather was cool, so a light coat or long sleeves did the trick. By the time it was 11 a.m., it warmed up. Not very crowded, it was nice to walk through and take some time to see the animals starting their day. Since it was 9:30 am when I got in, not many food/drink places were available until closer to 11, so I purchased a bottle of water from one of the vending machines and kept exploring. If you're looking for a slower pace to venture, I recommend the morning, I enjoyed it.
Ari George — Google review
"Love taking the kids here! Awesome zoo with aquarium and aviaries. Large habitats are great but animals can be shy. Park lacked water due to a break on a hot day, $4 for water bottles is steep. Offering cheap bottles until boil mandate lifted would've helped. Kids enjoyed feeding birds and the sky high safari was a highlight!"
Cobey Riley — Google review
Riverbank zoo is a all day adventure for the family! I recommend buying tickets online as somedays it's packed here. Always building new and exciting exhibits for the animals. This is definitely a all day trip for all ages. Many many animals to see and multiple locations thay are indoors and cooled when you get too hot. There is also petting zoo areas and small rides like a train and carousel for the little ones. They do sell food and drinks there but they are very very expensive. We bring food and eat it outside on the benches then go back inside.
Tony Goehring — Google review
Riverbanks Zoo is always a fun day for the kids. Even after multiple visits, it never gets old. A great way for the kids to get their energy out. They absolutely love it when Waterfall Junction is open and love the giraffe feeding, too! The grounds and gardens are always beautiful!
Deanna Breivik — Google review
This is a great Zoo. Downside is make sure you get the wristbands to actually participate in feeding the 🦒 and doing a good amount of things the kids will want to do. Downside was we didn't see the large tortoise or many monkeys. There were no cats available to view either as a lot of exhibits were being renovated. The food is definitely not great, everything costs so much these days. Expect to spend at least $160 for a few hours and 2 people. Clean, well staffed and easy to find.
Ree C — Google review
Here visiting for the weekend and came on a Friday. Really enjoyed this zoo! I think it is very kid friendly and has a lot of activities for them to do, not just see the animals. We came at a good time (10 am) so most of the animals were pretty active. We enjoyed seeing the reptiles and Gorillas the most. It was definitely busy that day due to many schools having field trips to the zoo. They only really had snacks around the park, which is expected at a zoo. I do recommend doing to Tuskers if you real food while visiting though. We also really enjoyed walking the Garden trails. I highly recommend checking out this zoo!
Lauren Lowell — Google review
Other than the number of people, we had a great time. The staff was nice and all the animals were out. Can't wait to go on a weekday and be able to take our time watching the animals.
Lydia Dean — Google review
We got there at 1pm and had enough time to stop by most the exhibits, but many of the animals were sleeping. I'd recommend getting there earlier so you can go back to see the animals you missed on the first round. The zoo itself was not very big, so you can easily make a couple laps. The parking lot was hectic when we got there (1pm on a Saturday), but once we got past the entrance, we found many open spots, while others were fighting for closer parking.
The South Carolina State Museum is a large museum located in Columbia, SC that houses both permanent and rotating exhibits on a variety of topics ranging from art to history to science and technology. The museum also has a planetarium and an interactive 4D theater that are great for kids.
This is definitely a gem. They have 4 floors of exhibits. We didn’t get thru it all today. They have kid friendly exhibits as well. They have a gift shop an they also show mini movies. Today admission was $1 per person. ( First Sunday of each month).
Kimbryea Walker — Google review
Great museum with multiple levels of interesting exhibits to view. Short historical movies were free for viewing. Great lunch cafe if you’re hungry and gift shop on first floor. Would recommend to others.
Nicole McMorris — Google review
I’ve been to the museum multiple times, as I am a local. Which also means I’ve seen many different exhibits featured here. I believe the museum is well known for the massive great white shark hanging in the entrance and can be seen from every level of the museum (4 floors ). While it’s very impressive it’s also very intimidating for younger visitors as well. My most previous trip here was a random Tuesday in April. Total spur of the moment with my 4 year old son, sister and nephew (2 years old). My son thought the giant shark was the coolest thing ever and my nephew couldn’t run away fast enough (he was leashed to his momma and just about pulled her down he ran so fast 😂). After convincing him it wasn’t going to eat him we saw the cool dinosaur exhibit, explored prehistoric times, walked the many different destinations SC has to offer, learned about SC history and saw the planetarium 🪐 they are currently completing renovations on multiple floors, so many of the hands on exhibits and interactive displays were gone. Honestly the 3rd and 4th floors held very little interest for everyone. The museum is geared more towards older kids interested in history. Although it’s a great place to visit, make sure to check the website to see what new exhibits they have and if any are unable to access. In the past they have had some great exhibits, you just have to keep an eye out. All in all, it’s a great place to take friends and family from out of town or a trip to the past on a random Tuesday with your kiddos to reminisce about horse and buggy times, rotary phones, and 1970’s televisions. Definitely a must visit when in South Carolina 💖
Courtney W. — Google review
What a fun place to discover a little bit about everything. The stars, the sea, the land, technology, people. This museum has it all and everyone at every age is sure to have fun. The is a cafe for snacks, a gift shop, planetarium, and hands on activities throughout. It is four levels of fun. It is handicap accessible and elevators are handy. It is a lot of walking so if you do have mobility issues they have provided benches throughout for a rest.
S Gomez — Google review
Although it's showing its age in places (some of the exhibits are 25+ years old) the museum is clearly undergoing a renewal. Many signboards and displays have recent updates, exhibits are being tweaked, new displays are going on. It's true this isn't the state of the art museum it was in the early 90s, but it's still a solid place to pick up on state history and I still love coming here to see what's been updated since my last visit. Watching the changes from one visit to the next in almost real time has been pretty exciting!
In good weather, definitely check out the observatory. Even if it's closed due to clouds or rain, they're always happy to have a chat about the telescope and show off pictures they've taken with it, which is extremely cool. The updated space exhibits are also fantastic, as are the telescopes on display and the recent acquisitions hall. Showing its age in places, yes, but like I said it's still definitely worth the visit.
Cara C. — Google review
Staff were pretty friendly. I was with a large group of people. I believe there could of been a better explanation of how we could navigate the area. There was construction going on during this time. Like any museum the food in the cafe was over priced for the quality of food. There are 4 floors so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. The hours are work friendly.
Mickeal Rhaney — Google review
The state museum really is a Columbia treasure. I've been going my whole life and now take my kids, ages 6 and 8. They are just now getting to the age where they understand and appreciate what they're seeing. I'd say any younger than 6 it's probably a better idea to check out the children's museum across the street, Edventure. This museum is definitely geared towards ages 7-8 and up, in my opinion. You can easily spend 3-4 hours at the state museum, especially if you stop to read things. There's so much rich history in SC! The planetarium theater is awesome and we've enjoyed the different shows featured over the last year or two. The 4D theater is cool, but if you have a little one scared by sudden noises, feels, etc I'd skip it. Certain films have effects where they may mist you with water, the seat may vibrate, or you may feel some other sensation. So just know that in advance. My Boys love the military exhibits, dinosaurs, and space exploration exhibits the best. There's also a very impressive telescope collection, lots of prehistoric animals, a look at transportation and daily life over the years, life of the early Native Americans, and so much more!
Beth Banco — Google review
What an absolutely overwhelming experience this museum is. We spent nearly 3 hours exploring and only saw maybe half of what there is to see. It has everything from history to science, to amazing planetarium shows that are worth every penny. I can't wait to make it back to Columbia to see the rest!
Christopher Caudle — Google review
This museum is AMAZING! 4 floors of soooo much information and exhibits. I got there at 11 thinking I’d be there thinking I’d be there just a couple hours but 4hrs later I was still there enjoying myself. Such a great way to spend a day.
Cynthia R — Google review
Great place to explore. The building itself is cool. The planetarium is a great experience. Also do the observatory. Impressive telescope and knowledgeable staff. The other displays throughout are fantastic, but there isn't much change. Still, I enjoyed repeated visits. The manually powered submarine model is fascinating. We went this last time for the eclipse. The staff members really make you feel welcome.
Jimmy Sadler — Google review
Really awesome museum! I highly recommend visiting! Probably plan on showing up earlier in the day if you do plan to go.
Jeremiah Corgatelli — Google review
My daughter and I had a wonderful time exploring the exhibits. Make sure you plan to spend the entire day as there is a lot to see. My daughter really enjoyed the fossils, space, and habitat exhibits. We visited on a Friday and had very little traffic in the exhibits. There were a handful of other guests and one field trip. Something of note, the bathrooms are being renovated so they are few and far between. We ate lunch at the cafe, which had a small wait but was fair priced.
Tonja Suttles — Google review
It is always a great place to take friends and family from out of town. Fun and educational. 4D educational films are available also. The NASA exhibit is really cool.
Dawn Skipper — Google review
Ever since I can remember I have loved coming to the museum! I love the exhibits, even the ones they've had for years and years! There's so much to see and do and I learn something new each trip. I'm excited (and also slightly sad) that they are updating some of the older exhibits. I'll miss the old classics but I'm looking forward to whatever is next!
Katie Ratcliff — Google review
Really enjoyed the museum. The telescopes were some of my favorite things but I really loved seeing a piece of the moon! Really interactive parts and a great mix of science, history, and nature! I would recommend this place to anyone and I would especially encourage checking out one of the shows in the large dome.
Milen Patel — Google review
Nice, well curated museum. It contains information mostly on South Carolina and it's history and ecology, but there is also a sound and light exhibit.
Dylan Woessner — Google review
A nice museum over several floors: 2-3 hours recommended to fully experience the site.
Free public WiFi available, free parking, and a cafe on site as well.
Ryan Smith — Google review
You can tell it's built with huge budget. It doesn't have expensive dinosaur bones.
However, they managed to make it look interesting and diverse.
It definitely shows quality and character
Ali Bakir — Google review
Educational museum. Great promotion on the first Sunday of the month, entry is $1. I'm delighted with the planitarium. You can also visit the 4D cinema. There is a cafe and children's activities.
Nat Shor — Google review
Wonderful and so full of interesting South Carolina, natural, and technology history (radio, TV, automobile) and earth science that we couldn't finish. Fascinating telescopes, a small cafe, and dioramas too. Great for all ages.
V Mars — Google review
This was a letdown in a lot of ways. The displays were vast spectacles of nothingness. Large dioramas made more to take up space and less about educational content. Many, if not all of the interactive displays were broken or in some state of disrepair.
J C — Google review
My son and grandkids live in Irmo. We were visiting from NY and found this museum and planetarium a fantastic place. We arrived for the 1:30pm show and it was OK. But the history in the museum was amazing. We only had a couple of hours to go through the museum but you really need half a day to take eveything in. When we return we will certainly come back again and spend more time.
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.
The University of South Carolina is a large public university located in the heart of the state capital. The university has many historic buildings and museums on its campus that are popular with students and visitors alike. With close proximity to many attractions, the hotel is perfect for visitors who want to explore the city while they're in town.
My wife and I are early 70's graduates 🎓 from Carolina. Today we observed the 55 anniversary of my proposal which took place in the fountain garden adjacent to the Administration Building ... walking around the Horseshoe was a pleasant trip down memory lane.
Hal Turner — Google review
Got a degree in 2019 via the “Palmetto College.” Life appeared good. The covid mess shut down everything as I started looking for jobs! Still having hope in my college degree, I started to look for jobs after the extreme covid mess calmed down…no jobs hire college students now. I went to school for nothing!!! I even called to see if the Palmetto College degree even had value, to see if I actually had a degree. So now I owe money on garbage, college landfill garbage. I am academically advanced to flip burgers. Don’t go to college. Don’t. USC has no regard for graduates. Handshake? Garbage. Don’t offer regional campuses when the regions don’t even network with regional area jobs. I am #!%~ing mad! I regret my years in college. I could have rotted without my degree and degree debt. Oh, and don’t expect to afford payments on 10 dollars hourly. So, anyone stay away!!!!! Don’t go. What an absolute shame!!!!
Swull — Google review
Quiet and good place to focus on your school away from other busy cities. There are great teachers who are willing to help you if you ask. A lot services are provided by the school to help students with their school and social work. It get boring sometimes because it is a small city but overall there are a lot of activities to do
A. K. (Jeff) — Google review
Couldn’t be more disappointed to a university which sent an offer message, and as late as two days afterwards told me that it was a “clerical error.” Even worse, after the declination, the migration office sent me messages of congratulations and guidance on how to get a VISA in order to study there. Wow, what an unforgettable series of nightmares!
Steven N. — Google review
L, this university is filled with Mold. I couldn’t focus with the train horns always going off. Some professors like to manipulate our thinking into being in a “I’m poor” mindset. One professor was so old and skinny and he chucked a white board eraser across the room when a student asked a ‘boring’ question. They also don’t put enough care into engineering students: how are engineering students supposed to maintain a certain gpa within a scholar program in which people could take other easier majors and have it easy until later in life. But to just exist here it felt like 20 years in the past. Everything is old. The way things run are outdated and don’t make sense. About half the buildings and student housing need to be condemned. The city is a disaster of a mess. Parking is impossible when the whole city has to park somewhere too. I don’t have any hopes for this university succeeding in creating future students of America.
Chipper Levy — Google review
Had an awesome time. Katt Williams was phenomenal. I was great to see Monique on stage again. She killed it.
TdotHarris Muhammad — Google review
Just passed through whilst visiting Columbia, and I was quite impressed. The trees were outstanding and tall, the buildings were old but still looked good, and there was a fairly distinctive campus feel despite being in a rather large city. The palmettos make the campus much nicer and southern-feeling, and the various live oaks around campus give a very “Old South” feel. Cannot attest to the academics, though I did see a lot of “frat boy-types” and wondered if this school has that type of culture. The few people I chatted with were very nice and welcoming, and I would recommend visit the McKissick Museum or other places around here to get a sense of the culture and history of the school. G(oh) Cocks! Cheers.
Kyle Hartmann — Google review
Fantastic campus setting. First time visit and was impressed with the architecture and upkeep of the entire area. It will be a great 1st year experience for my son.
Jeff Wermers — Google review
Noelle Ziggy continues to use homophobic slurs when seeing me. due to being bound to a wheelchair and having red hair, she likes to point at me and scream "Hot Wheels" infront of everyone.
Bill Smith — Google review
Came here by accident looking for a place to eat, but my 12 yo son loved the atmosphere 👌🏼😉
J M — Google review
Amazing first college experience wish I could go back every day
Chipper Levy — Google review
It's definitely a Beautiful place, GORGEOUS campus, with loyal faculty, staff, professors, teachers, administrators, security, coaches, players, and a host of students with smiling faces everywhere. One of the biggest school in the state of South Carolina and most definitely one of my favorite schools.
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.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic plantation dating back to the early 1700s, with gardens which are popular with visitors for their lovely natural surroundings and fascinating history. Besides the garden itself, there are attractions such as an animal zoo and nature center. There's also a train that takes visitors around the grounds, as well as boat tours.
This was our first plantation tour. We had a great time. We did not tour inside the big house, but went on the tram tour and the From Slave to Freedom cabin tour. I recommend both very highly. After the tours we went though some of the gardens and around the ponds. Great scenery and views. We were surprised to come upon two large alligators near a walking path alongside one of the ponds. We were told there were many alligators on the property, but did not expect this encounter and left expediently. They made no aggressive moves, but we did not hang around. The rest of our walk was very nice and relaxing.
Daniel Brown — Google review
My family had a lovely visit to Magnolia Plantation. We came early on a Wednesday, and were able to quickly purchase tickets and get started with exploring the grounds.
The plantation’s massive Live Oak trees are picturesque, and the house itself is well maintained. While waiting for our tour, we visited the conservatory which was lovely. We ended our tour in the gift shop which had a wide assortment of lovely items.
We chose to pay for the Nature Tram since we had folks in our group who couldn’t walk far. It was a great choice since we were able to see the grounds and gain some historical perspective without walking a lot. On the tram we were able to see the slave houses, several rice fields, and many wild animals including alligators, birds, and turtles!
Although we didn’t go into the house or take the From Slavery to Freedom tour, I imagine these are as well done as the Nature Tram and well worth their money!
Dana B (WI - MN - TN) — Google review
What a beautiful place! So glad we went to visit. The grounds were gorgeous! There was a wedding there yesterday, so the various vendors were there tearing down their set ups. Other than that, all areas were open. We spotted many gators, so be mindful when walking near ponds and waterways. Lots of turtles too. The magnolias were so fragrant while we were walking around. We just did the house tour, but they had other tours available too. Those can be booked ahead of time right online. Lovely visit.
Lynne L — Google review
Magnolia was one of the best experiences we had while visiting Charleston. The tour guides were all very knowledgeable about the plantation. We did the house tour, train tour, and the Slavery to Freedom tour. The tour guide for Slavery to Freedom was Vanessa and she was absolutely amazing. I would recommend more then 4 hours for the entirety of the plantation. We only were able to do our tours and visit the gift shop in the four hours we were there. We wish we would have had more time to explore the gardens because this place is absolutely amazing. They also have an app that was extremely helpful for navigating the grounds and location the tours and restrooms.
Kierra Thiry — Google review
The plantation is absolutely gorgeous. The scenery and flowers were breathtaking and the farm animals made the experience so much fun for the kids. When walking the different gardens, the signs leading there could have been more clear. Most importantly, be prepared to be completely devoured by herds of mosquitos, so prepare accordingly. Otherwise, the experience was top notch! Highly recommended.
Hussein Fayad — Google review
Such a nice way to spend the day. The house is smaller than you’d guess, but the tour was one of my favorites. Full of history and interesting facts. The Slavery to Freedom tour literally made my eyes tear up with emotion, the guide couldn’t have been more perfect, it is clear that she loves her job and takes the history seriously. The grounds are beautiful. And my favorite part - the wild gators were all out and sunbathing, not at all phased by the visitors.
Kirsten C — Google review
This is a truly special place. We visited on a Thursday in late March. We took the train around the gardens and walked around some of the trails. There are many benches to sit on if you get tired easily. Bikes are allowed on some of the trails. There are so many great photo ops, so definitely bring a camera. There's plenty of parking and a bathhouse by the ticket booth. There's also a cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks. You download the Magnolia app on your phone and it has a map and info on events. There's a "From Slavery to Freedom" talk and a guided tour of the house. There's a very nice gift shop in the ground floor of the house. I bought an art print, Gullah seagrass basket and a cool candy on a stick for my son.
Amber Connell — Google review
Extensive gardens and large tracks of natural habitat. The Ashley river runs along the edge of the property providing beautiful views from the gardens. There are interesting trees to be found including redwood. There is a biblical garden as well as a conservatory. There are places with picnic tables and benches to rest at. There is a petting zoo. And children's garden. We did see little blue herons, great egrets, alligators and turtles. There is an excellent presentation "from slave to freedom" that takes about 30 minutes. Takes place at the remaining original slave quarters on the plantation. Gives a good snapshot of what life was through the decades from 1850s to 1990, they were still in use by the grounds people. All these can make for an entertaining and informative day.
JMcCoy McCoy — Google review
Had a nice afternoon here with the family. It wasn't peak bloom for anything in late September but there were still plenty of flowers and the overall scenery with the Spanish moss draped trees was stunning.
We did the rice field boat tour, which was very informative. The rice fields were given back to nature and are now just wetlands with a few remnants of the old farm. We saw tons of beautiful birds and alligators. The pontoon boat had a roof, so we were out of the sun.
Definitely should be on your Charleston list. If you are a local, call ahead to learn about what's in bloom and what time of year is best to visit.
M B — Google review
Beautiful grounds and rich in history. Great stop on way to Charleston for a bit of a walk and some lovely pictures! Bring bug spray and pack a lunch. Bit pricey but if you have more time it is well worth the money.
Waterfall Yoga Therapy — Google review
It's definitely a beautiful place filled with lovely flowers, plants and trees. The slavery to freedom tour and petting zoo are included in admission. Personally, I think for the price, everything should be included. There shouldn't be "add ons."
The guide for the freedom tour was exceptional and he deserves a raise. He told the raw history which needs to be said.
Alexa Wallbrown — Google review
A beautiful old world plantation garden. The many acres of the gardens offer many photo opportunities, including the long white bridge and the bamboo garden. There is also a little zoo area with several cool animals to visit with.
Evan Bair — Google review
Unfortunately for me it was a big disappointment. I love flowering plants but the azaleas and camellias had 95% finished blooming. So little to no color except for the plantings at the entrance. Pretty much if you miss the spring blooms you are just strolling through the woods.
There were multiple bus loads of people being dropped off. I felt sorry for those standing in long lines to get food at the small cafe.
There were miles of trails, most of which were not well marked, so we wondered aimlessly until we found our way back.
There were several small ponds and bridges with a couple of alligators floating around.
The entry fee seemed very high at $35. We did not take the house tour or tram tour. Overall disappointing.
Cathie Bales — Google review
I had an amazing time here, it was super beautiful and a really enjoyable experience overall. The "train" tour is nice because you're able to see a lot of the area with a lot of wildlife. The boat ride is also fun and you see a lot of gators. There are also many birds throughout the plantation along with flowers along various paths.
Jawand S. — Google review
Our family had a great time here! It was so nice to get up close to so many animals. We enjoyed our train tour and learned a lot! I only wish it was easier to take pictures during the tour. The cafe had great options for food. The gardens were lovely! We didn’t have time to do the silvery to freedom tour, but we will definitely be back to do it.
Jess W — Google review
Beautiful Plantation with so much to see and do! We loved going over to the “look out platform” and seeing over the whole area! We also saw SO MANY alligators in the ponds! SO cool!
We also LOVED the zoo! It had the coolest animals and was so fun to walk around and see them all up close!
We visited the last week of May and noticed that none of the flowers in the gardens were blooming (could’ve just been an off and cold year for the flowers).
RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Bring Bug spray! We were a little unprepared and got EATEN ALIVE
- Look up the tour times! The grounds are beautiful, but each segment (ex: house, garden, train tour etc) costs money and most of the segments have specific your hours! Look up your times to get the most out of your experience
Hannah Upham — Google review
This tour provided real and accurate information about slavery. No sugar coating, Gone With The Wind, it wasn't that bad narrative. Beautiful and breathtaking gardens, swamp and scenery. We did the big house, train and "From Slavery to Freedom" tours. We spent 3.5 hours and could have walked the garden more but, the 🦟 🦟 🦟 were hungry so we left 😂 A great tour and educational experience!
Margra Ferrier — Google review
Beautiful gardens and worth the visit on fresh day, with a chance to see alligators during train ride.
From slavery to freedom tour was
disappointing by our opinion. It was mostly self tour with 20 minutes story while you have to sit in the pavilion.
Guide was rude with kids (not mine but it felt wrong), taking into account that even our kids were bored and didn’t want to sit calmly who are big fun’s of any kid of excursion.
Olga Stryia — Google review
On the west side of the Ashley river are three plantations all within close proximity to one another and around a 20 minutes drive from historic Charleston, one of them being Magnolia. While originally a working rice plantation, Magnolia has now evolved into more of a naturalistic park with a large number of pathways and various types of foliage on display. Like other plantations there is a manor home which tours are offered for (at an additional cost) as well as a complimentary tram ride around the property that is quite pleasant and offers a nice respite from all the walking you would do. A worth stop if visiting the area. Enjoy!
Craig Bromberg — Google review
Terrific gardens!
Lots to see. Excellent variety of azaleas and camellias.
Lots of trails. Enjoy the birds and alligators and snakes.
Swamp boardwalk a huge plus.
So many photo ops.
Can't wait to return!
Mark Shuford — Google review
As a nature lover this was my favorite thing I did while visiting Charleston. Absolutely beautiful grounds with lots of wildlife and flowers to see. I also enjoyed the Slavery to Freedom Tour as it was informative and gave me a better understanding of the property and the hardships slaves faced. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I would recommend going in the morning as it started to get more crowded during the day. Bathrooms are easily accessible and very clean. They have a nice cafe as well.
Morgan — Google review
I have never seen anything like this. It’s so beautiful, it looks unreal. The gardens and trails are absolutely breathtaking. We toured the house and the guide was so pleasant.
I still can’t get over how beautiful everything is!
Debbie Collins — Google review
Very enjoyable experience! We took the train through the swamp area and later returned on foot to hike the trail through the swamp. We saw many birds, alligators, and turtles. Very unique atmosphere with an almost mystical quality
Ann Telma — Google review
Visited on a Tuesday afternoon, and there were quite a lot of guests during that time.
It was $38/person to access the gardens, Wildlife Center, Slavery to Freedom Tour, Wildlife Tour, and swamps.
We enjoyed walking through the swamps - alligators, turtles, birds.
Wildlife Tour - very squeaky tram to where we could barely hear the tour guide and definitely couldn't enjoy the sounds of nature.
Slavery to Freedom Tour - very quick history from the guide + Q&A. Didn't get very deep into it and have had better experiences in other cities.
Wildlife Center - small sanctuary with several species (alligator, peacock, goat, deer, owls, racoons, reptiles, fox, turtles, and more)
Gardens - decent views and nice walking paths.
Overall, we enjoyed our day but felt it was overpriced for the experience and offerings.
The Audubon Swamp Garden is a botanical garden located in the New Orleans area, consisting of wetlands and cypress swamps. The gardens are home to a variety of birds and wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and peacocks. The gardens are also connected to the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, which costs an extra $8 per person to access. The gardens are stunning year-round, with a large variety of birds and plants.
I just love seeing gators and there were definitely plenty of em here
James Mars — Google review
My first and last visit. CAUTION! It's not clear one must pay a $30 add-on fee to the plantation owner in addition the $10 ticket to see the swamp. I am an amateur bird photographer. For the best chance at good photos, one must be up early with the sun, but the plantation doesn't open until nine - at least two hours after sunrise during spring, summer and fall.. If you don't get the first place in the very long and glacially slow ticket line, it will be even later before one sees the first bird. To be fair, the boardwalk through the swamp is in top condition and the trails very-well maintained. The staff is polite and enthusiastic, but either new or untrained; or both. The maps provided are not all all to scale and thus, confusing. None of this seems to bother anyone as the plantation parking lot was packed during a weekday spring morning.
norman brooks — Google review
I think this place is ok. It's located near the entrance of the whole garden, and it cost $10 per head to visit this place. I personally don't think it's worth it after doing the tour. It's mostly just a swamp. We didn't see any alligators due to weather. And the rests are just birds and turtles. Also I have noticed there are loopholes in how you get in here. We parked in the parking lot and had to pay $10 to get in. But I have seen people just walked over and entered via side road to avoid paying. Not sure if this is fair.
Wuji Fei — Google review
Beautiful landscapes but a painful history. 💔 😢 The tour was excellent. I recommend taking the tour early upon opening during the summer months. Especially for those sensitive to the heating of the day.
Ronald Foster — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. It’s best to come in the spring or early summer when the birds are nesting, but still stunning year round. There are a large variety of birds, plants, mushrooms, spiders, reptiles, etc. Bring your camera and binoculars. It’s also fun to use Seek and/or iNaturalist to find hundreds of species.
Andrew GottWorth — Google review
One of my favorite places in the world. Beautiful at every season but especially in the spring when the rockery is alive with nesting and babies.
Joan Perry — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous, we saw many alligators of all sizes both far away and very close by. The views are totally worth it and we got to see many turtles and nice birds.
martina granato — Google review
I liked the swamp tour. It was only a 10$ add-on. The lake along the trail was really pretty, especially since it was fall. There were lots of alligators and turtles. The trail takes around 30-45mins to complete.
Ajimon Thomas — Google review
Went in late May on an overcast humid day and the whole place was alive! It was an amazing experience. Would recommend to take a few hours of time and just stroll along the paths.
Christina — Google review
A great place to take photos and see some of Charleston's wildlife. You can walk the swamp garden at your own pace and it's fantastic. This is my favorite portion of Magnolia Plantation and I have visited several times.
Grace B — Google review
Amazing views of wildlife and a very pleasant walk
Kevin Mosenthin — Google review
This place is pretty cool. I didn't learn about the entrance fee until after visiting and reading reviews. I just parked and walked around. Oops.
It is roughly about 20-25 minutes from Charleston. The Magnolia Plantation is just up the road from the swamp. Easy to get to and the parking lot was decently sized. There's also a restroom, it was clean and well kept. The swamp is pretty big and full of wildlife. Birds, turtles, snakes, alligators, etc. There are a few walking trails around the swamp as well, it's not all just bridges. Some of the trails connect to the plantation, so you can easily spend a few hours here.
The alligators were out and about. There was one smack down in the middle of the trail, made me jump for a second. Please use caution, these are wild animals that will attack. Some people were walking their dogs. I personally think that is a terrible idea for extremely obvious reasons. But what do I know?
If you're a nature lover, you will enjoy this place. I certainly did.
Arnold Guallpa — Google review
Beautiful place to visit. Plenty of alligators to see on our visit. Some were skiddish and some were not. When we come back to Charleston, we will definitely return for another visit. Highly recommended!
Rolf — Google review
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3550 Magnolia Plantation Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, USA
Drayton Hall is a well-preserved, renowned antebellum plantation situated on the Ashley River in South Carolina. The estate showcases Palladian architecture and holds the distinction of being the sole plantation house to survive both the Revolutionary and Civil wars fully intact. As a National Historic Landmark, Drayton Hall offers visitors tranquil grounds to explore and an African-American cemetery to reflect upon.
BEAUTIFUL place. Way better than the plantation up the street that costs $80 to do everything. Super quiet during the week, especially in the morning. Beautiful and well preserved place. Self guided audio tour is awesome! They did a great job of preserving and showing the area.
Jeff M — Google review
One of very few surviving plantation homes in the area post civil war period. Took the audio tour rather than a guided one which was great as you can wander at your own pace and listen to the guide, pausing her when you want to stay in one area a little longer. Having some info is a must though, to understand what went on in and around the estate and the architecture of the building. Staff were very friendly and informative too.
Kevin Blackley — Google review
We went for a Sip & Stroll that included an audio tour of the grounds, the museum, short film, the caretakers cottage museum, and gift shop plus two drinks tickets per person - so fun and relaxing. No more than 25-30 people and we were all spaced out to where it felt like you were the only ones there on the whole plantation! Would definitely recommend and do it again next spring!
Jennie Meetze — Google review
A wonderful experience, seeing Drayton Hall is like a step back in time. The house is preserved instead of restored, the tour includes information on slaves and tenants post-Civil War, and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. Part of the house is off limits for now due to ongoing preservation work.
Mac McCormick III — Google review
Exceptionally interesting and well-preserved area offering fascinating insights into the world of a southern plantation. Unlike similar sites, the focus here is on preservation rather than restoration, meaning the old buildings, including the main house, have had minimal work done on them since the 1800s.
The guided audio tours were informative and well-paced, guiding you both through the main house and the grounds. The only downside to an audio tour vs a guided tour would be the inability to visit the top floor of the house, although I don't think one is missing too much there.
On the Sunday I went in September, there were hardly any other people on the grounds, so crowds weren't an issue. There were two historians on site in the main house available to answer additional questions, which was a great feature. Moreover, despite much of what we know about the location coming from the former owner's diaries, I appreciated how the audio tour did what it could to speak from the perspective of the enslaved peoples forced to work the plantation, as well.
For $26 per person, I thought this was a very worthwhile place to visit.
Lance G — Google review
There has been some great improvements at Drayton Hall over the last few years. New gift shop visitor Center and bathrooms. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff
Kathy Woolsey — Google review
I visited Drayton Hall on 1/12 and I absolutely loved it as I love history and appreciate historical structures. They have a very clear introductory video and a very nice display of furniture and other historical pieces in their museum before you head to the house. My tour guide was very informative and I am just sorry that I forgot his name, but he was so knowledgeable on the history of the estate and in general the history of America at that time. The estate itself is beautiful and I can just imagine how this place looked in its prime. I enjoyed reading the map that captured the changes of the land now vs then near the enslaved cemetery and can only imagine where their houses were as there are no standing structures left. I enjoyed listening to the archaeological finds when they were doing some renovations in the basement and on the grounds, tons of history on this land even before the Draytons.
Tiffany Galvan — Google review
Beautiful plantation home with interesting history. We did not do the audio tour but explored the space on our own. The details on the home are amazing. The craftsmanship can’t be found today. It was interesting to see the graffiti from 1874. The staff is very attentive and helpful. They are currently working to put supports in so there is construction equipment on the ground floor.
Tiffany Harmer — Google review
Spent a fascinating afternoon with my son at the Plantation. Very informative audio tour, plus knowledgeable historians were on-site to answer questions. Excellent presentation, a very thorough explanation of this period in American history. We really learned a lot! Gorgeous grounds, trees, and landscape. Very friendly and helpful staff, super clean everywhere. Highly recommend a visit 👌
Wendy Graham — Google review
Tour of the house was great, plus tour guide was knowledgable and friendly! Beautiful home, and an amazing amount of history there and on the grounds. We also purchased Sip & Stroll event. The self guided tour on the phone was ok but the landmark number markers were not as clear, and overall was little lack luster. Could have easy had same experience without the small glasses of wine included and saved some money. However super cute signature wine glass souvenir was nice and everyone from gate check-in, sip and stroll check-in, gift shop gentleman, and tour guide were great. Recommend to anyone to do the house tour for a serious dose of history!
Charity D — Google review
Recent trip to Charleston and Drayton Hall was on our list. Very interesting history. Our guide was informative and was able to answer questions. Not sure if they ever intend to add gardens but I think it would enhance the visit to the property. There is a black cemetery on the grounds that is easy to miss. Our guide mentioned it and I asked for the location.
Joanne Shedrick — Google review
Our tour guide Florence provided many details and painted a realistic picture using their historic knowledge of the estate. Would recommend the house tour and to walk the grounds using the audio tour. Would go again anytime we visit, very interesting US history!
Dan Smith — Google review
the tour of Drayton Hall was my one of my favorite parts of our trip to Charleston! Florence was our tour guide and WOW. amazing! the best tour my fiancé and i have ever taken! Florence made it the best! So knowledgeable and passionate about the history of charleston
Kimmy Harker — Google review
A very historic and picturesque place by the Ashley River. The rooms of the house are empty of pieces of furniture that can be seen in a separate exhibit, but they are full of memories of the souls who throughout time spent their life here.
Alex L — Google review
I had visited Drayton Hall over 50 years ago, around the time of National Trust start for this preservation and restoration. Back then I felt I stumbled on to a hidden treasure. Now the grounds are pristine, the public entry, parking welcome center are appreciated improvements. When I found that Drayton Hall is now open with guided tours and encouraging archaeological digs in progress, I knew this tasks of preservation there were going to be immense. I've sought out Villa La Rotonda in Vincenza, Italy and even London's La Rotonda. To Palladio: you've made a big impression!
Greg Hargus — Google review
Great experience. We did the tour and our interpreter Makayla really brought the history to life. Her passion for Drayton Hall's stories was evident. The fact that the home has stood since the mid 1700s is amazing. If you are into history, Drayton is a must see.
Ken Wolf — Google review
One of the best plantations we've seen! The beauty was the original works were still in place and magnificently maintained. Our guide, Morgan, did a phenomenal job on the tour! The trees are gorgeous and the small garden was very pretty. Large grounds to tour, just watch out for the gators! So glad we visited Drayton Hall.
Lynne L — Google review
An amazing historic plantation just outside of Charleston. We enjoyed our tour with a knowledgable guide. The grounds are beautiful and the staff is incredibly friendly. Would definitely come here again!
Peter Reckling — Google review
The staff was friendly and informative! The museum and video were interesting. The buildings up front are fresh and done well!
The grounds were beautiful! The audio tour was a nice addition. There are great photo opportunities!!! We did see alligators as well! The ones we saw were little ones!
FYI
**I did not realize you could not tour the whole house without an extra fee and specific tour time. The upstairs was roped off with a sign saying it was for a specific tour only. That was disappointing, we found that out while on the self guided tour of the house. We were able to see the cellar and the first floor**
We were told the upstairs is the same as the first floor. There is no furniture in the house. They are all empty rooms. No AC but they did have fans going. It was in the 70’s when we went, the house temperature was comfortable. In the summer, I am not sure how hot it will be inside!
We really enjoyed walking around!
C U — Google review
February $10 rate for locals was a great deal. Drayton Hall was a wonderful experience. Archeological dig was very interesting, as was all the treasures found. The tour guide was unbelievable, giving an extensive history of the site, the owners, and the architecture. Every question guests had was answered in detail. Watched a brief movie, visited the archeological lab, and shopped in the fabulous gift store. It is one of the best historic sites in Charleston. Thoroughly enjoyed my visit.