South Carolina School-Healing

The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens has the distinction of being the site of the country's oldest public gardens that date back to the 17th century. In this historically dramatic slice of nature, you'll find the nation's largest collections of azaleas and camellias. If you want to get a little closer to the natural beauty of this historic attraction, you can opt to take the nature train or boat tour that offer a chance to experience the plantation's wetlands, lakes, forests and marshes. Also, don't miss visiting the plantation's main house, adorned with a striking collection of period pieces and other artifacts that date all the way back to 1873.

The family will surely enjoy a trip to Middleton Place as its dramatic history will capture the kids' imaginations as they walk through this 18th-century plantation. This historic attraction is listed as a National Historic Landmark and boasts one of the country's oldest formal gardens. Some of the structures on site date back to 1755, including a sugar cane mill and Plantation Stableyards for many animals that is still actively used. Don't miss the gift shop and restaurant area as you round out your visit to this truly amazing piece of Charleston's past.

Charleston's unbreakable ties with history are everywhere, and your evening at the theater is no exception. The Dock Street Theatre has the distinction of being the first theater ever opened in the United States, meaning it's been delivering entertainment for a long time. While the original structure of the Dock Theatre burned down, it has been rebuilt on the very same site and continues the tradition of staging some of the most impressive productions in town. The theater is also the venue for Charleston's popular Spoleto arts festival and remains the city's focal point for great artistic expression.