Ashley River Road
Ashley River Road Itinerary

Departure: Charleston, South Carolina
Destination: Middleton Place, South Carolina
Time to allow: 1 day

For history buffs, nature lovers, or couples looking for a romantic getaway, the Ashley River Road offers hidden treasures beyond gracious gates. Read through this suggested itinerary to maximize your experience.

Day 1

  • Start: Charleston

    Suggested time at this stop: 5 hours

    One of the most historic cities in the country, downtown Charleston features beautiful restored homes and shops, manicured parks, and an ocean view.

  • Stop 2: Drayton Hall

    From previous stop: 25 minutes / 13 mi (20.8 km)
    Directions:

    From downtown Charleston, take Highway 17 south across the Ashley River, and follow the signs to Highway 61. Follow Highway 61 north for approximately 8 miles. Watch for the "Historical Plantations and Gardens" signs and the Drayton Hall signs. Drayton Hall will be on your right.
    Suggested time at this stop: 2 hours

    Drayton Hall is the only pre-Revolutionary plantation house remaining on the historic Ashley River Road. This National Historic Landmark is the oldest and the finest surviving example of Georgian Palladian architecture in the South. Take a tour of the grounds, sipped spiced cider, or visit the Africian -American cemetery, left in it's original state.

  • Stop 3: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

    From previous stop: 10 minutes / 2.5 mi (4.0 km)
    Directions:

    Continue north along the Ashley River Road.
    Suggested time at this stop: 5 hours

    With gardens a plenty, carriage rides, a plantation house, bicycles for rent, and the Audobon Swamp Garden, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens will keep visitors happily occupied for hours.

  • End: Middleton Place

    From previous stop: 15 minutes / 5 mi (8.0 km)
    Directions:

    Continue north on Ashley River Road.

    Visit this Old South Plantation and take one of the African American focus tours, or during the holiday seasons, join in a tradition turkey dinner or take a candlelight tour of the houses in the area.

Totals for Day 1

Total Distance Traveled: 20.5 miles / 32.8 km
Total Travel Time: 50 minutes
Total Stopping Time: 12 hours