Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

"Journey through coastal American history—and the southern spaces that fully embrace their historic allure—starting at the nation’s oldest city (c. 1565), Spanish-influenced St. Augustine. Then, head to the South’s two most iconic cities, Savannah and Charleston, linked by US-17, where horse farms and churches mix with war relics and towering oak trees. After taking in all the southern charms of Charleston, continue to the tranquil beaches of Sullivan Island. Where to stop: In St. Augustine, visit the famed yet kitsch “Fountain of Youth” (yes, that Fountain of Youth.) Between Savannah and Charleston on US-17, stop at lesser-known historic site Sheldon Church Ruins, the remains of a circa-1753 church set ablaze first by the British during the Revolutionary War and then by the Union Army during the Civil War. Where to eat: Savor the cuisine of Charleston's it chef, James Beard winner Mike Lata, at his two institutions, The Ordinary and FIG (which stands for Food is Good). Experience the apex of low country fare at Circa 1886, where Executive Chef Marc Collins uses regional ingredients and reinterprets recipes and dishes of decades past to create thoughtful dishes that keep culinary history in style (Don’t miss the “Southern Grilled Cheese” a pillow of grilled brioche stuffed with pimento cheese mousse, Surryano ham, and paddlefish caviar). Where to stay: Stay in the center of Charleston’s historic district at The Charleston Place. Formerly part of the Belmond collection, this iconic hotel has gone independent under the direction of new ownership, which is infusing some $200 million into the storied property." - Alex Erdekian, Paul Rubio

"These are the oldest public gardens in the United States—they were founded in 1676 and have been open to the public since the 1870s. Filled with camellias or azaleas, depending on the season, they're a pretty stunning backdrop for walking and exploring. They’re also a surprisingly great family outing: Kids can check out the petting zoo, and a peacock café that features mini horses alongside the colorful birds. The original plantation home is open for tours, and unlike Drayton plantation (the gorgeously preserved house that belonged to founders Thomas and Ann’s son John), it’s furnished with family heirlooms in an effort to give visitors an idea of what life was like in the house in the 19th-century. If there’s one must-do, though, it’s the property’s award-winning “From Slavery to Freedom” tour, which explores Gullah culture in South Carolina from slavery through segregation all the way to the Civil Rights movement."

"Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is maintained by several organizations and provides a deep dive into the history of Charleston." - Allston McCrady