Middleton Place

A visit to Middleton Place offers insight into what Southern plantation life was like in the 18th and 19th centuries. A general admission ticket includes access to the sprawling landscaped gardens and plantation stable yards, while possible add-on experiences include a 45-minute guided tour of the House Museum or an open-air carriage tour of the grounds. Those with more time can book a room at the Middleton Place Inn, which includes access to all Middleton points of interest.

• This site is a must-see for history buffs.

• Give yourself a minimum of two hours (and as much as a full day) to tour the estate.

• The gardens are mostly accessible for wheelchair users, and the site offers disabled parking and restrooms; the House Museum is not accessible.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing for outdoor conditions.

Middleton Place is located about 30–40 minutes from downtown Charleston along the Ashley River and is best visited by car via Interstate 95. Parking is free of charge. For those without access to a car, it’s also possible to visit on a private tour, which usually includes round-trip transportation from Charleston.

While Middleton Place is open throughout the year, many visitors plan their trip based on what’s blooming in the gardens. The winter months see centuries-old camellias burst into bloom, while vibrant azaleas put on a show above Rice Mill Pond in spring. In summer, expect roses, crepe myrtles, magnolias, and kalmia—as well as high temperatures.

If walking around the grounds works up an appetite, grab a table at the Middleton Place Restaurant, where the menu features Carolina Low Country favorites like she-crab soup, collard greens, shrimp and grits, and Huguenot torte.

Visitors to Middleton Place go for its historic significance as one of the largest rice plantations in America and its importance to Charleston residents. Hear stories of the enslaved persons who worked here long ago and how the plantation transitioned over the years by visiting the plantation’s museum, gardens, and stable yards.

Plenty of visitors to Middleton Place can spend an entire day wandering around the historic site, but if you have other things to do, try to set aside at least two hours. It’s about an hour’s drive from Charleston, so it’s best to make your trip worth it if you are driving that distance.

There were at least 800 enslaved people who worked at Middleton Place. The plantation was over 50,000 acres, with gardens, stables, and an immense rice field. Plus, the enslaved cared for children and tended livestock. The Middleton family was one of the wealthiest at the time, made possible by its enslaved help.

Adults tickets are around US$30, students are around US$15, and children aged 6-13 are about US$10. Outdoor tours are included with admission, like guided garden tours, tours discussing enslavement at the plantation, and livestock tours. A restaurant on the grounds also serves lunch and dinner on various days.

Yes, The Inn at Middleton Place is open for overnight guests. It is located along the Ashley River and settled amongst natural surroundings in an environmentally mindful, modern design. Enjoy the pool, complimentary breakfast, and an afternoon cheese board at happy hour. Admission is included if you book a night at the inn.

Visitors can explore Middleton Place in several ways, with guided tours bringing a new perspective to the experience. Private chauffeur-driven tours, self-guided tours with lunch, and group guided tours with hotel pickup are just a few ways to explore Middleton Place. Some tours also visit additional attractions.