Just a short drive from the beach bliss of Folly lies one of America’s most historically significant cities. Charleston, South Carolina, is a living testament to centuries of American history, from colonial settlements and Revolutionary War battles to Civil War beginnings and antebellum grandeur. For guests staying at Waterโs Edge Inn, Charleston’s rich historical tapestry is easily accessible, offering a perfect complement to your relaxing beach getaway. This guide will take you through Charleston’s most compelling historical sites, starting with the spots closest to Folly.
Must-Visit Historical Sites Near Folly
McLeod Plantation Historic Site
Only 15 minutes from Folly Beach, this 37-acre former plantation offers a sobering and powerful look into Gullah culture, slavery, and emancipation. Tours focus on the experiences of enslaved people and their legacy, providing crucial historical context often missing from traditional plantation tours.
The Angel Oak Tree
Located on nearby Johns Island, this massive live oak tree is estimated to be over 400 years old. Standing 65 feet tall with a canopy that stretches over 17,000 square feet, it’s one of the most majestic natural landmarks in the Lowcountry.
History buffs won’t want to miss the H.L. Hunley, the world’s first successful combat submarine. The museum explores its mysterious sinking and remarkable recovery off the coast of Charleston, just a short drive from Folly.
Historical Sites in Charleston Proper
Fort Sumter National Historical Park
No visit to Charleston is complete without experiencing Fort Sumter, where the American Civil War began on April 12, 1861. Located on a man-made island in Charleston Harbor, this National Historical Park can only be reached by ferry, making the journey part of the experience.
Rainbow Row
Rainbow Row is one of Charleston’s most photographed and beloved landmarks, consisting of thirteen pastel-colored Georgian row houses along East Bay Street. Built in the 1700s and carefully restored in the 1930s, these historic homes represent some of the finest colonial architecture in America.
Historic Charleston City Market
Dating back to the 1790s, this four-block market complex continues to bustle with vendors selling everything from local crafts to traditional sweetgrass baskets. It’s a living piece of history where commerce and culture intersect.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Founded in 1676, Magnolia is one of the oldest public gardens in America. The romantic gardens, featuring massive live oaks draped in Spanish moss, create an almost magical atmosphere that has enchanted visitors for centuries.
Drayton Hall
Built between 1738 and 1742, this National Historic Landmark offers a rare, unrestored glimpse into colonial life. Unlike many other plantations, Drayton Hall has never been renovated, allowing visitors to see it as it has stood for over 275 years.
Charleston’s historical sites offer far more than just beautiful architecture and scenic settings โ they provide essential insights into the forces that shaped our nation. From ancient oak trees and groundbreaking submarines to Civil War battlegrounds and preserved plantations, these locations invite visitors to experience the beauty and complexity of the South’s rich heritage. After a day of exploring Charleston’s historical landscape, return to the tranquil comfort of Waterโs Edge Inn on Folly Beach for happy hour, marsh views, and a peaceful place to reflect on it all.