Drayton Hall is the only surviving plantation along the Ashley River. The main house was built in the Georgian-Palladian style of architecture in 1738, and today is considered a National Historic Landmark. Visit the house and surrounding plantation to learn about daily life in the 18th century and the generations of families that have lived there.The plantation lies nine miles (14.5 kilometers) northwest of Charleston. The land was bought by the son of a wealthy cattle farmer in the 18th century and the house took four years to complete. Conservation projects have preserved original details, such as the hard-carved moldings, mahogany wood panelling, and elaborate handrails and balustrades. Use the Voices of Drayton Hall DVD to take a self-guided tour of the house and grounds. Rental of the DVD and portable player is included in the admission price. You are free to use them all day, as well as stopping to join the guided tours whenever you like. Guided house tours last between 30 and 60 minutes and are included in the price of entry. Learn about the Drayton family and the domestic staff that worked at the property. During the American Revolution, the British army used the mansion as a military base.Join the talk called Connections: From Africa to America, which explains how diaries, documents, maps and artifacts are used to tell the story of slavery in the U.S. Volunteers run the 45-minute talk held several times a day. Stroll through the grounds using one of the self-guided nature tours and look for wildlife in the trees, marsh and river. Layers of history are preserved in the garden house, privy and rice fields.Drayton Hall is about 30-minutes’ drive from downtown Charleston and parking is available on-site. The plantation is open daily, except for major national holidays, and the entry fee includes activities and access to the grounds.
Drayton Hall
Visit Drayton Hall
Popular places to visit
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Turtles, alligators and birds abound in this former plantation, now swampland, gardens, lakes and forest.
Middleton Place
Wander through excellent gardens, stroll along the scenic banks of the river and learn about Charleston’s dark history in the museum.
Audubon Swamp Garden
Explore the great outdoors at Audubon Swamp Garden, a lovely green space in Charleston. Wander the area's riverfront or simply enjoy one of its lively breweries.
Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club
Play a round of golf in Charleston at Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club, and enjoy other activities such as boating. Stroll along the area's riverfront, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.
United States Air Force Charleston Air Force Base
After visiting United States Air Force Charleston Air Force Base, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in North Charleston. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the lively breweries while you're in the area.
West Ashley Park
Explore the great outdoors at West Ashley Park, a lovely green space in Charleston. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
Top Hotel Deals
- Vacations and getaways similar to Drayton Hall
- Hotels Near Drayton Hall, Charleston
- Hotels near other Attractions
- Hotel Theme
- Crowne Plaza Charleston Airport - Conv Ctr, an IHG Hotel
- Comfort Inn & Suites Airport Convention Center
- Residence Inn Charleston Airport
- Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Charleston Airport West
- Extended Stay America Select Suites - Charleston - Airport
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Charleston Airport
- WoodSpring Suites North Charleston Airport I-526