Southern charm & sandy shores in the Holy City

Said to be one of America's most beautiful gardens, Magnolia Plantation was founded in 1676, and for decades has graced Charleston with its gorgeous features and romantic stylings. A trip to the gardens will leave you wanting to plan your next event or wedding here! A petting zoo, theater, and cafe are just some of the offerings you'll want to check out, in addition to the abundant seasonal flowers. Take a train through the ground's lakes and forests, a boat tour across the wetlands, or learn about the Gullah culture at the Magnolia's Cabin Project, which features houses from the 1800s. It's evident that love and care have been put into this property for years and years, and the preservation of the rich history of the area alone is worth a visit.

Charleston's famous Rainbow Row is a block of gorgeous historic homes which have had their beauty enhanced by colorful paint jobs. The project began with the Society for the Preservation of Old Dwellings painting historic homes pastel colors to keep the structures cool in the hot sun in the 1930s. The scene quickly attracted the attention of tourists and local artists alike. What was once considered slum land by many after the Civil War is now a restored and iconic place to visit in Charleston. Today, these buildings are a landmark treasured by many, for their colorful and unique aesthetic appeal that draw photographers, painters, and those just passing through. Take a walk around the neighborhood, as well as the waterfront nearby during your trip to the city, or even join the historic walking tour offered by the city to those wanting the full experience.

On John's Island, the largest island in the state, Angel Oak Park is home to one of the oldest living oak trees. You'll be able to sense its age just by looking at it. Most oak trees today don't have limbs touching the ground and expanding in many directions, but the oldest species of oaks (like the Angel Oak) do, and they're rarely found. Angel Oak is a unique treasure on the island that visitors from far and wide come to visit year after year. It's presumed to be anywhere from 400 to over 1,000 years old, and is accompanied on the island by Legare Farms, where an annual Battle of Charleston reenactment takes place, as well as Johns Island Presbyterian Church and Mullet Hall Equestrian Center. The cozy park additionally has a gift shop, and plenty of benches and areas to relax in.

Whether you're a veteran camper or a city slicker visiting town, the Mount Pleasant / Charleston KOA Holiday is truly a unique experience you'll want to see for yourself. Here, campsites are located on a historic plantation that boasts nearly 400 acres. During your stay, take advantage of the complimentary wagon ride through the property to get a feel of the rich history of the land you're staying on. Deluxe Cabins and traditional camping sites are offered, but for a one-of-a-kind experience, be sure to check out the train caboose offered to groups of up to six people. The property even has a dog park that features a sectioned off part of a lake so your pup can swim! This KOA is on another level. Your stay here will be a memorable one, and with a location close to Charleston you just can't beat it!

For a day in the sand and sun, Isle of Palms County Park is the perfect place to relax and swim, sunbathe, enjoy a picnic or play some beach volleyball. Here, you'll find plenty of room to spread out, and access to showers and restrooms is readily available. Lifeguards monitor swimming activity, and Isle of Palms even has a snack bar... just remember that old wives’ tale: no swimming 30 minutes after you eat! There is plenty of shopping within walking distance for those needing a break from the sun and all that beach fun. Arrive early on nice days to beat the rush and get good parking, and stay for a beautiful South Carolina sunset over the ocean. A full day on the sand and water is sure to complete any road trip from near or far. The Isle of Palms is a perfect distance away from the busy city life without physically being far.