Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Category: Garden in Charleston, South Carolina

Address: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, USA

Phone: +18435711266

Opening hours

Sunday: 9AM–5PM

Monday: 9AM–5PM

Tuesday: 9AM–5PM

Wednesday: 9AM–5PM

Thursday: 9AM–5PM

Friday: 9AM–5PM

Saturday: 9AM–5PM

Reviews

Emily Januszczyk

Jun 15, 2022

This was such a lovely day trip. We did the general admission and signed up for the Slave to Freedom Tour as well (which was free). We visited the petting zoo, where peacocks, deer and a pig were walking amongst us (that were apparently rescues, according to one of the staff). We walked in the Conservatory, then around the Ashley River trail. This was a very beautiful place, and you can only imagine how much work goes into landscaping such a place. The Slave to Freedom tour was about 30 minutes, where we sat on benches near some restored cottages that used to be slave quarters before the Civil War. They were restored to 4 different time periods. These cottages were actually lived in until the 1990s by workers of the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. The tour guide for this part was excellent, interesting and informative. There was also a little shop in the middle of the campus to buy various drinks and lunches (sandwiches, salads, etc.) The shop was usually very packed and had a very long line. Overall, I thought the place was beautiful and I enjoyed walking around. We did see a woman with a walker who was struggling to walk around the gravel paths. For those who are handicapped, getting to the Slave to Freedom tour may have been rather challenging. Some other tours will drive you around the campus with a “tram” of sorts. I can certainly see this setup to be limiting for some folks with disabilities.

Jessica Reisner

Jun 11, 2022

Great place for families. They have lots of little trails that you can easily walk or bring a stroller. There is a fun little "zoo" there with many domesticated animals that walk around with you. Our kids loved it! The tour that came with it was more of a presentation. I would suggest upgrading to the trolley tour but other than that it was a lovely adventure!

C Shore

May 26, 2022

The gardens are truly amazing along with the history and story of Magnolia Plantation. Their telling of the story of slave life could us some professional writing to help show their impact on the path to freedom. Some of the facility is in need of upkeep like the observation tower and old spooky campground area but it seems they are working on renovations to the main house now and working towards those outlying features. Be prepared for a lot of walking which I enjoyed as you can put in several miles here. Overall a 4 star experience as the story of the plantation and slavery could use more detail. I would recommend some professionally written plaques posted in key areas. The gardens and house tour are truly a 5 star experiences!

Jawand S.

Apr 5, 2022

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.

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Questions & Answers

Is there a discount price for seniors? And, do you provide or rent wheel chairs?

Lorraine Borger | Apr 26, 2019
Greg Vollmer | Apr 27, 2019

Saw a response below that they do no rent wheelchairs. The train was awesome and picked up very close to the entrance, so it should be convenient if you're less mobile. Garden trails are extensive. Well graded for the most part, but in some places very narrow with encroaching vegetation. This would be difficult for one companion to assist/push a wheelchair without a lot of breaks.

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What's the best time to visit and see memory lane in full bloom?

Jaime Watts | Apr 26, 2018
Jonathan Douglas | Apr 27, 2018

April

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Is it free for toddlers?

Alexandra Saint-Firmin | Apr 26, 2018
Shane Wiseman | Apr 27, 2018

Yes, I believe children under 5 are free

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Is there anything for the elderly who can't walk distances to see and do?

Cindy Fleck | Apr 26, 2018
Alyssa Lynch | Apr 27, 2018

Yes many accesible paths, shaded areas and buildings, as well as different animals roaming around such as peacocks. Also has boat rides in nice weather as well as a trolley

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How much is the entrance for this place?

Isay Laluna Thomas | Apr 26, 2018
Maryelizabeth Inglesby | Apr 27, 2018

Admission starts at $20. Then you add on from there what tours you want to do. Each tour is an additional $8. A full package costs $52 for adults.

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Are dogs allowed

silviablund | Apr 26, 2018
MJ | Apr 27, 2018

Yes... And dogs that can be carried are allowed even on the house tour. Was the main reason we chose Magnolia over similar tours in the area. We did the all inclusive tour package and took our dog on all of them. Kudos for Magnolia Plantation and its wonderful owners.

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Are dogs aloud?

Tyler B | Apr 25, 2020
Wendy Bowers | Apr 26, 2020

Yes on a leash

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is this a good place for birding and bird photography?

Kimberly Lewis | Apr 26, 2019
Ryan Mitchell | Apr 27, 2019

Yes. It is pretty much a manicured marsh. Lots of good habitat and cover for a variety of wildlife.

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what is the basic tour

Linda Zoeller | Apr 26, 2019
Jeet Gappanna | Apr 27, 2019

You might find groupon that'll give you 20% to 25% off on basic admission

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Are the Magnolias in bloom?

Cricket Purdy | Apr 26, 2018
Vicky Alexander | Apr 27, 2018

No not for a few more weeks, the first week of May is a better chance

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Is there a restaurant on premises?

Donna Greenleaf | Apr 18, 2022
William Bennett | Apr 19, 2022

Yes I believe they do

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Is there a military discount?

Becky Jaeger | Sep 27, 2021
Pawel Marszalek | Sep 28, 2021

Yes

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Is your facility handicap accessible?

ML Cauthen | Aug 28, 2021
Geoffrey Flint | Aug 29, 2021

Yes it is. They have ramps everywhere

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Is magnolia gardens pet friendly

Alma Magarro | May 30, 2021
Michael Schmidt | May 31, 2021

Yes

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Are the plantations open in October as we are planning on coming in Oct.?

A Google User | Apr 25, 2021
Andrea Ackley | Apr 26, 2021

Yes

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Is there any available time on oct 19 through 21

Mary Kelly | Apr 25, 2021
W G | Apr 26, 2021

With this awful Virus I would assume your date's would be available. I also feel that they would take care of every precaution. A call is definitely advisable

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What is the ticket for adults ?

bhupendra gauniya | Apr 25, 2020
Cindy Smith | Apr 26, 2020

$20 for a basic ticket. That is just to get on the grounds. If you want to do anything it's like$8 a ticket for extra stuff per activity

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Do you recommend buying in advance or can we do at the gate? Does it ever sellout?

Jim Blaha | Apr 25, 2020
Brenda Bihlear | Apr 26, 2020

I would call and see what their status is morning time would probably be the best time to go but make sure you take a big can of bug spray with you. But if you have small children and are concerned about mosquitoes

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Is there food available at magnolia

wanda hurliman | Apr 26, 2019
Cathy Dukes | Apr 27, 2019

Yes. No white bread for sandwiches. Pimento cheese, egg salad, pb&j... To name a few. Hamburgers and hot dogs also.

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Are your rhododendrons/azealeas in bloom yet?

Cricket Purdy | Apr 26, 2018
Richard A Little | Apr 27, 2018

As of ten dsys ago the azaleas were mostly done & the camelias were well on their way - still a beautiful place though.

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When is the best time to visit

Wynell Barwick | Apr 26, 2018
Sarah Knight | Apr 27, 2018

I think April or May when the magnolia are in bloom.

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What are your open hours on 12/24?

Mary Guess | Apr 26, 2018
Jojan Paul | Apr 27, 2018

Please check their website or have a call with them. Get tickets from Groupon for discount. I won't think that this is the best time to have a visit to the plantation.

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I have a visitor pass. Does this just get me in the door for a self guided walking tour?

Scott DeVries | Mar 26, 2022
Lisa | Mar 27, 2022

I believe it gets you into the garden and you can do a self guided tour of the garden. The tram and swamp as well as boat or house tour would be extra. But you would enjoy the beautiful walk and you could enjoy the gift shop and Cafe for lunch.

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Do I need reservation in may 2022. what is the best time of day to tour the plantation

CHRIS Epperley | Mar 26, 2022
Lisa | Mar 27, 2022

No reservations required. Spring is the most colorful time. I would go in the morning because the Temps in South Carolina can get pretty warm later in the day. Make sure you have lunch at the Cafe, they also serve beer and wine. ENJOY!

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Can you walk around without paying admission, or do you need to pay just to even get onto the site?

Alec Hargreaves | Dec 26, 2021
Sondra Moorman | Dec 27, 2021

You have to pay upon entry. Parking is free.

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What food is available to purchase?

Mary Dyer | Nov 26, 2021
Lisa | Nov 27, 2021

Beer and wine. Assortment of sandwiches or hot dogs. Ice creams etc.

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We won't have a car, what is the best way to get there?

Keek Voss | Jul 29, 2021
Dawn Baker | Jul 30, 2021

They have a drop of spot for uber/lyft/taxis. We saw several people use these services while we were there. If you do all the tours get there 9am because it will take you about 6hrs to do it all in 1 day. You can also go back to walk grounds, gardens or boardwalks if you couldn't do them on original day of tours within a few days of ticket purchase. I highly recommend all the tours especially the slave cabin tour. They give you a true view of how life was before Juneteenth & how the cabins changed afterwards over the years. You will hear the story of 1 family who started as slaves & how they decided to stay after freedom. You see the home & gardens where they raised their family until early 2000s.

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Can dogs be walked at magnolia plantation l

anthony ditzler | Jun 29, 2021
Marie Adams | Jun 30, 2021

Yes..I saw some.

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How much time should we give to visit the plantation?

Jeanine Langenbach | May 30, 2021
PaperPlate Mask | May 31, 2021

I'd say 3 to 5. I did 2 separate tours.

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How much of the house do you get in to see at magnolia plantation

Martha Martin | Apr 25, 2021
Enrique Perez | Apr 26, 2021

Just the porch. I was more interested in the grounds

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Do I have to buy ticket before i get there ?

Angie traveling | Apr 25, 2021
Isaac Blevins | Apr 26, 2021

No they have a ticket counter just follow the signs!

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Do we need reservations for the day before Thanksgiving 2020?

LORI JONES | Apr 25, 2021
Trent | Apr 26, 2021

Nawwww.... you're good homie! ;-)

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When is magnolias in bloom? Best time to visit?

Lannie Perry | Apr 25, 2021
Mare | Apr 26, 2021

Any time between February and June

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If I purchase a ticket for the Chines lanterns and it rains, can we use tickets later when it stops raining or non refundable?

Sharon Drew | Apr 25, 2020
Gale Rickert | Apr 26, 2020

They did for us a couple of weeks ago, but we called in advance to exchange them

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are there a lot of stairs to climb or are elevators available. Is there anything to see in the gardens in January?

Adrienne Meisel | Apr 25, 2020
Lise Addison | Apr 26, 2020

No elevator. There are stairs to climb in the house. Two floors. Last flight upstairs are quite steep. The garden's are beautiful and the tour is quite nice.

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Is there parking for RVs

karen lago | Apr 25, 2020
Sean Southard | Apr 26, 2020

Not specifically but you can take multiple spots

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What will your hours be around Dec. 22-24? Thank you.

Marsha Weinbaum | Apr 25, 2020
Joan Adams | Apr 26, 2020

Check out the website. I'm not sure.

Any truckers deliver here? Is there a specific entry for delivery? Certain hours for delivery?

Jessica Hall | Apr 25, 2020
Jessica Hall | Apr 26, 2020

Thanks. Will call and ask. There must be signs for trucks to go where needed. Was the truck u saw little or 18 wheeler

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Is there still a buy one get one free coupon somewhere?

freedom to be me | Apr 25, 2020
열쩡 | Apr 26, 2020

No,I have never heard that!

What are your hours?

Laurie Duchesne | Apr 25, 2020
Chad Strickland | Apr 26, 2020

Where bug spray

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Can you ride bikes at Magnolia Plantation ?

Lauren Leverett | Apr 25, 2020
Lance Sayre | Apr 26, 2020

No, need to walk and take the history and sites in

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Tours with transportation offered as well as purchasing straight from their website. What is the differences as far as the seeing the train etc?

Angela Martin | Apr 25, 2020
G. L. | Apr 26, 2020

General admission ($20 per person) is required for entrance. After that, they have different rides/tours ("train", boat, or the house, etc). These added attractions are $8 each/person, but are worthy, we did the train and had a really good experience. I recommend buying tickets at the entrance. On their website there is a coupon that gives you a free ticket for the purchase of one general admission ticket, just print it out and bring it with you. This was fantastic for us, we saved $20! We went on a Thursday, so there was no line at all. Not sure how busy is the plantation during the weekends.

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Do I need tickets before hand?

Mary Walrath | Apr 25, 2020
Paul | Apr 26, 2020

There is a ticket booth at the Plantation. Park first and you'll have to walk to the booth. There should be people and signs to guide you the whole way.

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Do they have a military discount?

Nicole Grantham | Apr 25, 2020
Paul Melcher | Apr 26, 2020

Yes they do.

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What are days and times?

Brenda Damask | Apr 25, 2020
Fernando Perez | Apr 26, 2020

Open 7 days a week

Can I bring my own lunch

Tyler B | Apr 25, 2020
Kevin Lares | Apr 26, 2020

Yes you can

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how much are tickets r they open every day

Susan Portman | Apr 26, 2019
Sam Levin | Apr 27, 2019

$20 basic entry fee, then $8 per optional item (5 options available) I believe they are open every day.

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How early can you get in to photograph?

therone james | Apr 26, 2019
Deana Grant | Apr 27, 2019

They open at 9or ten I believe .... No pics on the inside of house but as many as you would like anywhere else on the grounds .

How long should one plan to be there to visit the gardens?

Lynn Genda | Apr 26, 2019
Wes Wolfram | Apr 27, 2019

You could honestly spend an entire day of you wanted to see it all. I'd recommend at least 3 or 4 hours to get a good look.

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Are we allowed to bring sandwiches into the gardens?

Raymond Vuong | Apr 26, 2019
Kim McManus | Apr 27, 2019

Yes! There are picnic tables and benches scattered throughout the main gardens. They do ask that you not bring food into the Audubon Swamp Garden area, though.

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Is it worth going in late December? Meaning, are there still flowers and wildlife too see?

Jennifer | Apr 26, 2019
Trina Merlino | Apr 27, 2019

I visited last December. Not all the flowers were blooming but there was still plenty to see. It's a beautiful place!

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is there a restaurant on to grounds

Bob Zaffis | Apr 26, 2019
English Team | Apr 27, 2019

There is a cafe that serves breakfast and sandwiches

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What times do your boat tours depart?

Chuck Bailey | Apr 26, 2019
Misha Fulton | Apr 27, 2019

Every hour on the actual hour

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Can you stay over night at the plantation or by there?

Jean Ann Shoup | Apr 26, 2019
Michelle Goodsby | Apr 27, 2019

You can stay by there i believe they close up each day

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Do you get a tour or do you go see it all by yourself?

Genia Unger | Apr 26, 2019
Rick Cole | Apr 27, 2019

You can tour on your own or take a tram or boat tour.

can you bring food into the gardens?

Brooklyn Driggers | Apr 26, 2019
Fr. Daniel Gregoire | Apr 27, 2019

Yes. I would bring food and bottles of water. An insulated bag would be appropriate, given how warm it gets here. There are several areas with tables for eating.

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What is the swamp tour like?

VIRGINIA BYRNE | Apr 26, 2019
Debbie Robinson | Apr 27, 2019

I particularly liked the pontoon on the swamp. Saw Gators and birds swallowing fish. However, our driver was very funny. Both older and younger people enjoyed his Banter and silly jokes. He was very knowledgeable. That boat ride and walking rhe gardens were my favorite! That brought me the most memories. The swamp tour was great! The pontoon driver/guide was very informative and funny. You can move about on the boat while looking for the Gators. I'm told you see them every ride. I know we did! A big plus is the cooling breeze. Highly recommended!

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how far from North Myrtle Beach, SC What is entrance fee, etc?

Diane Renna | Apr 26, 2019
Carla Nazario | Apr 27, 2019

There's also a groupon right now. that will apply to general admission.

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Is there a virtual tour of the manor house?

april bowman | Apr 26, 2019
Michael R Jones | Apr 27, 2019

No, but there is a small building as you enter between the two ticket booths that has a video that tells you some history of Magnolia.

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Things for 4 year old kids?

Dollbabykat Terry Bolton | Apr 26, 2019
Chris Gray | Apr 27, 2019

Great boat ride and petting zoo for all ages.

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Is there someplace to eat nearby for lunch?

Lu's Northern Home | Apr 26, 2019
Bathville Books | Apr 27, 2019

There are several restaurants on the road on which Magnolia Plantation is located.

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Is general admission ticket good for seven days?

Hal Bourgeois | Apr 26, 2019
Tiffany Follin | Apr 27, 2019

Per groupon fine print listing: "Magnolia policy maintains that a guest can return free of charge (with proof of receipt) within 24 hours after the initial visit." Since there are nothing on their main site and some here say 7 days are valid, I would also recommend calling to double check.

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How long does it take

Ashley Ayers | Apr 26, 2019
Sarah Bailey | Apr 27, 2019

4-6hrs depending on what you choose tours are great you will love it! The time passes quickly.Tour guides very knowledgeable and answers any questions you may have.

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Is Magnolia Plantation the one with a 5 hole outhouse? I think it would be interesting for my grandchildren to see

Susan Reiter | Apr 26, 2019
E.J. Orthaus | Apr 27, 2019

I would definitely be interested in seeing a five hole outhouse as well. But did not see one while at this Plantation.

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Is there a place to purchase lunch?

John Donovan | Apr 26, 2018
Florence Bivens | Apr 27, 2018

Yes, and tables to sit in beautiful surroundings ~ and if you're lucky, as we were, an awesome, beautiful peacock walks among the tables! We watched a lady putting food-bites on the ground, and the peacock took them!

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Please explain exactly who gets in under the grandparent fee of 75$. Is that for both grandparents or only one. Thanks

Ron and Dawn Pollard | Apr 26, 2018
S | Apr 27, 2018

One must go and see Magnolia if you happen to be in South Carolina. Worth spending time here its so beautiful

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How many hours should you allow here?

Jenna Marie Streitenfeld | Apr 26, 2018
Cliff Neukam | Apr 27, 2018

At least 2-4. Yes, you could meander all day and never tire of it.

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Do they rent scooters for disabled? If so how much are they?

debra Tuchscherer | Apr 26, 2018
Deanea Vivola | Apr 27, 2018

I didn't see any scooters, so I don't think so.

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How much is the entrance fee?

Claire Lott | Apr 26, 2018
Christina Brinklow | Apr 27, 2018

This is directly from their website: BASIC ADMISSION Adults: $20 Kids 6-12: $10 Kids Under 6: Free HISTORIC HOUSE Adults: $8 Kids 6-12: $8 Kids Under 6: Free NATURE TRAIN Adults: $8 Kids 6-12: $8 Kids Under 6: Free NATURE BOAT Adults: $8 Kids 6-12: $8 Kids Under 6: Free SLAVERY TO FREEDOM Adults: $8 Kids 6-12: $8 Kids Under 6: Free AUDUBON SWAMP  Adults: $8 Kids 6-12: $8 Kids Under 6: Free Also, my guess is that when you were there Richard, they were still trying to clean up from the hurricane that had come through in September.

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What is the best time to view the Plantation? What’s the price for children to enter magnolia plantation?

Lauryn Weber | Apr 26, 2018
Christina Brinklow | Apr 27, 2018

I think every time has it's unique benefits. Like others have said, if you're looking for tranquility and private pictures, going early is the best bet. But I found the lighting so gorgeous in late afternoon. From about 1 to 5 was spectacular-for pictures I mean. Little kids are free to get in...and i always like to remind people that you can re-enter the plantation for free with receipt from the day before!!! Best tip ever! That is especially true if you just weren't able to see it all the first day!!!

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May I bring a blanket and picnic basket and picnic on the grounds?

Jo Ellen Patrick | Apr 26, 2018
Joseph Rogers | Apr 27, 2018

Be ready to be transported in time. Zen

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Where do you go to pay when you arrive, how is the parking and are there any picnic areas?

Jaime Watts | Apr 26, 2018
Amy Moon | Apr 27, 2018

When you get out of the car walk toward the house and there is a ticket booth to the left. There is a picnic area with a little cafe as well. Plenty of parking with a minimal walk

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when is the best time to visit for flowers in bloom

mary hippert | Apr 26, 2018
Courtney Kern | Apr 27, 2018

Although it's beautiful all year round, April is the most colorful and magnificent! You'll get the dogwoods and the lilies in the iris. Beautiful variety almost like a Monet painting.

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Best time to use the entire grounds in bloom?

Jaime Watts | Apr 26, 2018
Jon Miller | Apr 27, 2018

Would vary by what blooms you want to see. Last week was great for the Camellia blooms. Next few months would have a variety of blooms.

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can I work there at the age of 16 I really want to work there

Tybray Moses | Apr 26, 2018
Tina Roberson | Apr 27, 2018

Call an ask, let them know how interested you are. Go get it!!

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Does the plantation have restrooms?

Casey Bryan | Apr 26, 2018
Sonja Robinson | Apr 27, 2018

Yes at the front gate and located in various locations.. they are clearly marked

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What does it cost for seniors?

Cindy Ballard | Apr 26, 2018
Sonja Robinson | Apr 27, 2018

It depends... best bet is to look at website. There is a discount though

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What kind of trees do I see near the bridges that hang down close to the ground?

Tina Danelius | Apr 26, 2018
Barbara Miller | Apr 27, 2018

What is the entrance fee?

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Is there a place near that has cotton

Sam Henriques | Apr 26, 2018
Camille Plummer | Apr 27, 2018

Don't know anything about the Cotton..fields..

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Does it have cotton fields?

Sam Henriques | Apr 26, 2018
Sonja Robinson | Apr 27, 2018

No it was a rice plantation not cotton. But the old rice fields are still there.

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i have to do a project about this

Bryce Fulton | Apr 26, 2018
Edgardo Diaz | Apr 27, 2018

Great place for a project.

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Is there a parking fee

amanda Wright | Apr 26, 2018
N SCHIM | Apr 27, 2018

There is no parking fee ... But therre is a fee for everything else u do there.. i dont recommend this plaxe very boring and un kept..

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How much is it

Lyric Deziree | Apr 26, 2018
Trina Merlino | Apr 27, 2018

Adults $20. Children $10. Kids under 6 = free. House tour, train, boat, etc = an additional $8 for each. They often have coupons/specials so check their website.

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what are the best dates to see flowers in the spring

Jim Coffey | Apr 26, 2018
David Myers | Apr 27, 2018

2nd week of April

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How i jelp at the garden I am a master gardener?

mendal Lyles | Apr 26, 2018
Jojan Paul | Apr 27, 2018

Please have a look at their website and have a call with them.

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Are indoor photos allowed?

Lis Rog | Apr 26, 2018
Enmanuel Rumbos | Apr 27, 2018

Yes

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Are dogs allow

Rolene Vesa | Apr 26, 2018
christopher whitehouse | Apr 27, 2018

Okay if kept on lead. Allugatirs in ponds.

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Do they still do tours if it is raining?

Rose Pedal | Apr 26, 2018
Susan Moore | Apr 27, 2018

They are open 365 days of the year. Why would rain stop any of the tours? Be safe. Call first.

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Is it open Nov 13/17

Berta Curran | Apr 26, 2018
Susan Moore | Apr 27, 2018

Magnolia is open 365 days a year, including all major holidays.

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What time on Sunday will tour to Magnolia plantation begin?

Nick Dipiazza | Apr 26, 2018
Susan Moore | Apr 27, 2018

Sunday same as weekdays. 8-5:30. Admission price only gets you into the park. Tours are extra $. We saw alligators on the swamp tram!

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My daughter and her fiance wanted to takeengagements pictures in the Charleston area, is there a fee just for this?? Thanks Deb

Deborah Jamison | Apr 26, 2018
Jackie Vickery | Apr 27, 2018

Are dogs allowed?

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