Top 100 best museums in South Carolina

The Old Slave Mart, located at 6 Chalmers Street in Charleston, South Carolina, is a significant historical site that once served as a slave auction gallery during the antebellum period. This building provides a tangible connection to the city's past, offering visitors a chance to learn about a crucial aspect of Charleston's history.

The Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is a naval museum situated in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. It is located at the mouth of the Cooper River on the Charleston Harbor, providing a picturesque view across from Charleston. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore naval history and maritime heritage.

The South Carolina Aquarium houses a diverse range of more than ten thousand plants and animals. Visitors can expect to see a variety of species including North American river otters, loggerhead sea turtles, alligators, great blue herons, owls, lined seahorses, jellyfish, pufferfish, green moray eels, horseshoe crabs, sea stars, pythons, and sharks. This wide array of flora and fauna provides an enriching experience for all visitors.

The Charleston Museum, situated in the Wraggborough neighborhood of Charleston, South Carolina, holds the distinction of being the oldest museum in the United States. This historic institution offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich past of the country.

The USS Yorktown (CV-10) is a significant piece of World War II history. As an Essex class aircraft carrier, it played a crucial role in the United States Navy's operations during the war. Today, it stands as a testament to the bravery and dedication of the men who served aboard it.

The Powder Magazine, located at 79 Cumberland Street in Charleston, South Carolina, serves as both a gunpowder magazine and a museum. This unique combination offers visitors a chance to delve into the history of the area while also exploring a significant piece of military history.

The Nathaniel Russell House, built in 1808, is an early 19th-century house located at 51 Meeting Street in Charleston, South Carolina. It was constructed by Nathaniel Russell, a wealthy merchant and slave trader. The house is recognized as one of the most important neoclassical houses in the United States, showcasing the architectural style of the period.

The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, also known as the Custom House and The Exchange, is a historic building located at the intersection of East Bay and Broad Streets in Charleston, South Carolina. This building, built between 1767 and 1771, has served a variety of civic institutional functions over the years, including notably as a prisoner of war facility operated by British forces during the American Revolutionary War. Today, it stands as a testament to the city's rich history and is a popular destination for tourists.

The Gibbes Museum of Art, which was previously known as the Gibbes Art Gallery, is an art museum located in Charleston, South Carolina. It is a significant cultural institution in the city, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of artworks.

The Williams Mansion, previously known as the Calhoun Mansion, is a Victorian-era house located at 16 Meeting St., Charleston, South Carolina. This historic mansion is open to the public for tours, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Victorian period.

Fort Moultrie, located on Sullivan's Island in South Carolina, is a series of citadels that were constructed with the purpose of protecting the city of Charleston. This historical site offers a unique insight into the defensive strategies and architectural designs of the past.

Said to be the world's largest reptile park. See the amazing creatures as you walk above them - and do not miss the two albinos.

The Heyward-Washington House, located at 87 Church Street in Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic house museum. Constructed in 1772, the house stands as a testament to the rich history of the area. It was once the home of Thomas Heyward, Jr., a signer of the United States Declaration of Independence, and served as the residence of George Washington during his 1791 visit to the city. Today, it is owned and operated by the Charleston Museum.

The Joseph Manigault House, located in Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic house museum. It is owned and operated by the Charleston Museum, making it a significant part of the city's cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the house to gain insights into the architectural style and history of the period.

Located near the city of Blacksburg in South Carolina, Kings Mountain National Military Park is a significant historical site in the Southeastern United States. The park commemorates the Battle of Kings Mountain, a pivotal victory for the Patriots over the Loyalists during the American Revolutionary War. It offers visitors a glimpse into a crucial chapter of American history.

Drayton Hall, an 18th-century plantation house, is situated on the Ashley River, approximately 15 miles northwest of Charleston, South Carolina. This historic site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architecture and lifestyle of the era. It is a significant landmark that has survived through both the Revolutionary and Civil wars, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts.

Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park is a significant historical site located in Charleston County, South Carolina. The park primarily serves to protect and preserve four key landmarks: Fort Sumter, Fort Moultrie, the Charleston Light, and Liberty Square. These sites offer a rich insight into the history and culture of the region.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic site located on the Ashley River at 3550 Ashley Road River, Charleston County, in South Carolina. The plantation, which dates back to 1676, is one of the oldest in the South and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The house and gardens are open to the public every day, with an admission fee charged.

The Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is a naval museum situated in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. It is located at the mouth of the Cooper River on the Charleston Harbor, providing a picturesque view across from Charleston. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore naval history and maritime heritage.

The Columbia Museum of Art, situated in Columbia, South Carolina, is a fine arts museum. It is a place where visitors can explore a diverse collection of art pieces from different periods and styles. The museum offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of fine arts, providing a rich cultural experience.

The Museum & Gallery, Inc. specializes in sacred art, with a primary focus on European Old Master paintings. However, the museum also houses smaller collections of sculpture, furniture, architectural elements, textiles, Greek and Russian icons, and ancient artifacts. This diverse collection offers a comprehensive view of various art forms and historical periods.

The Hunting Island Light, a historic lighthouse, is situated in the Hunting Island State Park on Hunting Island near Beaufort, South Carolina. Although it is no longer a functioning lighthouse, it remains a significant fixture at the state park and is open to visitors. The tower is primarily made of brick with a cast-iron shell and stands at a height of 132.6 feet. The top third of the tower is painted black, while the lower two-thirds is painted white. An LED lamp currently flashes the original flash pattern from 1859, providing night visitors with the feel of an operating lighthouse.

The Cowpens National Battlefield is a preserved site of a significant event in the American Revolutionary War. It was here that Brigadier General Daniel Morgan achieved a decisive victory over British Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton on January 17, 1781. This historical event is a major draw for tourists interested in American history.

Fort Hill, also recognized as the John C. Calhoun House and Library, is a National Historic Landmark situated on the Clemson University campus in Clemson, South Carolina. This historic site was once the home of John C. Calhoun, the 7th Vice President of the United States, and is now maintained as a museum and library by Clemson University.

The South Carolina Botanical Garden is a vast expanse of natural beauty, spanning 295 acres. It is divided into several sections, including a 70-acre display area, a 40-acre arboretum, and over 90 acres of protected forests and streams. This provides a diverse range of environments for visitors to explore, from meticulously curated gardens to untouched natural landscapes.

The Kazoo Museum, located in Beaufort, South Carolina, is a unique institution dedicated to the history of the kazoo. This museum offers a deep dive into the world of this simple yet fascinating musical instrument, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of its history and significance.

The Hampton-Preston Mansion, situated at 1615 Blanding Street in Columbia, South Carolina, is a historic site that once served as the residence of the influential Hampton family. This mansion is a significant part of the city's history, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of its past inhabitants.

Middleton Place is a historic plantation located in Dorchester County, South Carolina. It is situated along the Ashley River and is approximately 15 miles northwest of downtown Charleston. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of the area while enjoying the natural beauty of the Ashley River.

Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site is a significant location in Union County, South Carolina. It is the preserved home of William H. Gist, who served as the 68th governor of South Carolina. This site offers a glimpse into the life and times of Gist, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history.

Huntington Beach State Park, located near Murrells Inlet in Georgetown County, South Carolina, is a 2500 acre coastal preserve and state park. The park is known for its large sandy beach, which is often less crowded than other beaches. It is also a popular spot for bird watching, with numerous species of wild birds visible throughout the year.

The Woodrow Wilson Family Home, located in Columbia, South Carolina, is a significant historical site as it was one of the childhood homes of the 28th President Woodrow Wilson. The future president resided in this house from 1871 to 1875, marking an important period in his early life.

The Robert Mills House, also known as Robert Mills Historic House and Park or the Ainsley Hall House, is a historic house museum located at 1616 Blanding Street in Columbia, South Carolina. This landmark is a significant part of the city's history and offers a unique glimpse into the architectural style of the early 19th century.

Millford Plantation is a historic site located west of Pinewood, South Carolina. This plantation house and farmstead is a significant part of the region's history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The plantation is easily accessible via SC 261, making it a convenient destination for those interested in historical architecture and the history of the area.

The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a large 170-acre establishment that serves as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden. It is situated along the Saluda River in Columbia, South Carolina, United States. This location offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors, including a variety of animal exhibits, aquatic displays, and a vast botanical garden.

Woodburn, also known as the Woodburn Plantation, is an antebellum house located near Pendleton in Anderson County, South Carolina. It was built as a summer home by Charles Cotesworth Pinckney around 1830. The house is a significant historical site, having been named to the National Register of Historic Places on May 6, 1970. It is also part of the Pendleton Historic District.

The Burt-Stark Mansion, also known as the Armistead Burt House, located in Abbeville, South Carolina, holds historical significance as the site of the last Council of War of cabinet members of the Confederate government. This event marked a pivotal moment in American history, making the mansion a place of interest for those keen on exploring the country's past.

Hopsewee Plantation, also known as the Thomas Lynch, Jr., Birthplace or Hopsewee-on-the-Santee, is a historic plantation house built in 1735. It is located near Georgetown, South Carolina. This plantation house holds significant historical value as it was the birthplace of Thomas Lynch, Jr., a Founding Father and a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Ashtabula is a historic plantation house located near Pendleton in Anderson County, South Carolina. It is recognized as a historic district and was officially named in the National Register of Historic Places on March 23, 1972. This recognition underlines its historical significance and value.

The Hanover House is a significant colonial structure built by a French Huguenot family between 1714 and 1716. It is located on the upper Cooper River in the present-day Berkeley County of the South Carolina Low Country. The house's historical and architectural value makes it an interesting site for tourists interested in colonial history and architecture.

The Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, located in the West Ashley area of Charleston, South Carolina, is a significant location as it preserves the original site of the first permanent English settlement in Carolina. This site offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the beginnings of English colonization in the region.

Cypress Gardens is a vast 170-acre preserve and gardens situated at 3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner, South Carolina, United States. This expansive area offers a unique blend of nature and history, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

The Musgrove Mill State Historic Site is a significant location in American history, having been the site of the Battle of Musgrove Mill during the American Revolutionary War. This battle took place on August 19, 1780, near the Enoree River. Today, the site is located on the border between Spartanburg, Laurens, and Union Counties in South Carolina.

Hampton Plantation, also known as Hampton Plantation House and Hampton Plantation State Historic Site, is a historic plantation located north of McClellanville, South Carolina. It is now a state historic site, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to learn about the history of the plantation and the people who lived there.

Moore Farms Botanical Garden is a botanical garden situated in Lake City, South Carolina. Established in 2002, the garden spans 65 acres and is composed of cultivated gardens and pastoral fields. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultivated landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those interested in botany, gardening, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

Brookgreen Gardens, located in South Carolina, is a unique blend of art, nature, and history. Founded in 1932 by Archer Milton Huntington and his wife, Anna Hyatt Huntington, the gardens serve as a sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. The couple's vision was to create a space that showcased American figurative sculptures, including works by Anna and her sister Harriet Randolph Hyatt Mayor, among others. Today, the gardens continue to fulfill this vision, offering visitors a chance to explore the beauty of art and nature in one location.

The Oconee Station site also includes the Williams Richards House, a structure built in the early 19th century. This house served as a residence and trading post, playing a crucial role in the local economy of the time. Visitors can explore this historical building to gain insights into the living conditions and trade practices of the early 19th century.

The Warren Lasch Conservation Center is a part of the Clemson Restoration Institute. It plays a significant role in the excavation, examination, and preservation of the submarine H. L. Hunley. Visitors can learn about the intricate process of conserving historical artifacts and the importance of preservation.

The Kilgore-Lewis House, originally known as the Josiah Kilgore House, is a historic home situated in Greenville, South Carolina. This house, built around 1838, carries a significant historical value and is a notable landmark in the region. It offers a glimpse into the architectural style of the period, making it an interesting destination for those interested in history and architecture.

Kings Mountain State Park is a significant natural attraction located in the Piedmont region of South Carolina. It is conveniently situated about 40 miles southwest of Charlotte, North Carolina, near Interstate 85. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists traveling from various parts of the country.

The Clemson Area African American Museum (CAAAM) is situated in the Calhoun Bridge Center in Clemson, South Carolina. This location is significant as it was formerly an all-black school known as the Calhoun Elementary School, the last school built for African American students in this part of Pickens County. The museum is housed in the old Morrison Annex Building, which was home to the second African American school during segregation.

The Hollywood Wax Museum in Myrtle Beach opened its doors to the public on June 14, 2014. It is conveniently located at 21st Avenue North and U.S. 17 Bypass, forming a part of the popular tourist destination, Broadway at the Beach.

The Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site is a national historic district and open-air museum situated in Camden, Kershaw County, South Carolina, United States. It is a significant tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the Southern theater of the American Revolutionary War. The site is managed by a consortium of private donors and local governments and is an affiliated unit of the National Park Service.

Swan Lake Iris Gardens, situated in Sumter, South Carolina, holds the unique distinction of being the only public park in the United States that is home to all eight species of swans. This includes Royal white mutes, Black Necks, Coscorobas, Whoopers, Black Australians, Whistlers, Bewicks, and Trumpeters. This unique feature makes it a special destination for bird lovers and those interested in nature.

The Mace Brown Museum of Natural History is a public natural history museum situated on the campus of The College of Charleston, a public liberal arts college in Charleston, South Carolina. It provides a unique resource for teaching and internationally respected research activities conducted at The College of Charleston.

The park is located on U.S. Highway 521, approximately nine miles north of Lancaster, South Carolina. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors.

The Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site is a state park located in South Carolina, United States. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of the region. The park is open to the public and provides a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.

One of the significant features of the Heyward House property is the last remaining slave cabin in Bluffton. This structure provides a tangible link to the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the harsh realities of the slavery era. It stands as a reminder of the region's history and the struggles endured by those who were enslaved.

The James W. Dillon House is a historic home situated in Dillon, Dillon County, South Carolina. This two-story, white frame Late Victorian style dwelling was constructed in 1890. It stands as a testament to the architectural style of the period and offers a glimpse into the past.

The Jammie Seay House, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a historic home with a rich past. Constructed between 1770 and 1800, this one-story log house stands as a testament to the architectural style and craftsmanship of the period. Its historical significance is further underscored by its builder, Jammie Seay, a Revolutionary War soldier.

The South Carolina State Museum, located along the banks of the Congaree River in downtown Columbia, is a museum dedicated to the history of South Carolina. It is the largest museum in the state and is recognized as a resource for South Carolina history and lifestyle. The museum is housed in the former Columbia Mills Building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Bonham House, also referred to as Flat Grove, is a historic home situated near Saluda in Saluda County, South Carolina. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. The house itself is a two-story, log 'dogtrot house' that sits on fieldstone pillars, providing a distinct architectural style that reflects the period in which it was built, around 1780.

EdVenture is recognized as the largest children's museum in the Southeast United States. It is conveniently located in Columbia, South Carolina, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.

The Hampton-Preston Mansion, located at 1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, South Carolina, is a historic mansion that once served as the residence of the prominent Hampton family. This mansion is a significant part of the city's history and offers a glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants.

The Greenville County Museum of Art, located in Greenville, South Carolina, primarily focuses on American art. The museum's collection includes works by renowned artists such as Andrew Wyeth, Josef Albers, Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Ronnie Landfield, Helen Turner, Mary Tannahill, Eric Fischl, Marylyn Dintenfass, and Leon Golub. Jasper Johns, a notable figure in the collection, was raised in South Carolina, adding a local touch to the museum's offerings.

The Hale–Elmore–Seibels House, also known as the Seibels House, is a historic building situated in Columbia, South Carolina. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past.

The Upcountry History Museum, located in Greenville, South Carolina, is a unique institution that showcases the regional history of fifteen upstate South Carolina counties. The museum's exhibits span from the early 18th century to the present, providing a comprehensive view of the area's past. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the region's history and how it has shaped the present.

The Charles Pinckney National Historic Site is a part of the United States National Park Service. It is dedicated to preserving a section of Charles Pinckney's Snee Farm plantation and country retreat. This site offers a glimpse into the life and times of Charles Pinckney, a prominent figure in American history.

Darlington Raceway is a traditional NASCAR track located in Darlington, South Carolina, USA. The track measures 1.366 miles (2.198 meters) in length, making it a unique destination for NASCAR enthusiasts and tourists alike. The track was designed by former driver Harold Brasington and opened in 1950, adding a rich history to its appeal.

The Lexington County Museum is a significant historical site, comprising of 36 historic houses and outbuildings. These structures provide a glimpse into the past, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the architectural styles and living conditions of earlier times.

The Parris Island Museum is situated in Building 111, Panama Street, at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in Beaufort, South Carolina, United States. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique insight into the history of the United States Marine Corps and the Port Royal region.

McLeod Plantation is a significant historical site located on James Island, South Carolina. It is situated near the intersection of Folly and Maybank roads at Wappoo Creek, which flows into the Ashley River. This former slave plantation offers a glimpse into a crucial part of American history and provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the past in a tangible way.

The Brattonsville Historic District is a significant historical site located in York County, South Carolina. It comprises three homes that were constructed between 1776 and 1855 by the Brattons, a notable family in York County. These homes provide a glimpse into the architectural styles and living conditions of the period, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

St. Luke's Chapel is the only remaining building from the Charleston Arsenal. In 1883, Dr. Porter converted the artillery shed into a chapel, which eventually became part of the Porter Military Academy. This historical building provides a unique insight into the transformation of the site over the years.

The Gov. William Aiken House, also known as the Aiken-Rhett House, is a historic building located at 48 Elizabeth Street, in the Wraggborough neighborhood of Charleston, South Carolina. Built in 1820, the house is known for its association with Gov. William Aiken and is considered to be the best preserved complex of antebellum domestic structures in Charleston. The house was originally configured as a Charleston single house with entrance from the south side along Judith Street.

The Penn Center, previously known as the Penn School, is a significant African-American cultural and educational center. It is situated in the Corners Community on Saint Helena Island. Founded in 1862 by Quaker and Unitarian missionaries from Pennsylvania, it was the first school established in the Southern United States specifically for the education of African-Americans. Today, it continues to fulfill an educational mission and serves as a cultural hub.

The Immanuel School, built in 1889-1890, is significant for its association with the parochial education of black children in Aiken and surrounding South Carolina counties from 1890 until it closed in 1932, and as a particularly rare, sophisticated, and intact example of Late Victorian vernacular sc

The Greer Heritage Museum is a local history museum situated in Greer, South Carolina. It is conveniently located near the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, making it easily accessible for tourists flying into the area. The museum offers a deep dive into the local history and culture of Greer and the surrounding regions.

The BMW manufacturing plant in Greer, South Carolina, stands out among BMW plants worldwide for its high production volume. Currently, the plant produces approximately 1,500 vehicles per day, making it a bustling hub of activity and a fascinating place to visit.

The Horry County Museum is housed in the historic Burroughs School, also known as Burroughs Graded School, located in Conway, South Carolina. The building was constructed in three phases between 1905 and 1923, making it a significant part of the local history.

The Hartsville Museum, formerly known as the Hartsville Post Office and Hartsville Memorial Library, is a historic building located in Hartsville, Darlington County, South Carolina. This building, which has a rich history, is a significant landmark in the area.

The Cowpens Depot, also recognized as the Cowpens Depot Museum and Civic Center, is a significant historical site located in Cowpens, Spartanburg County, South Carolina. This former train station offers a glimpse into the past, providing visitors with a unique perspective on the region's history and the role of rail transport in its development.

The John Mark Verdier House is the only house museum in Beaufort. It offers tours from Monday through Saturday, between the hours of 10:00 and 4:00. This provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore the house and learn about its history and significance.

The Mann-Simons Cottage, located in Columbia, South Carolina, is a historic home that dates back to around 1850. This 1 + 1 ⁄ 2 -story, cottage style frame house stands on a raised basement, offering a glimpse into the architectural style of the mid-19th century.

The Beech Island Historical Society (BIHS) is a non-profit organization that operates a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Beech Island and Aiken County. Located in the U.S. state of South Carolina, the society provides an opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history of the area. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and collections that reflect the unique history and culture of Beech Island and its surrounding county.

Hobcaw Barony is a vast 16,000-acre tract located on the Waccamaw Neck peninsula, nestled between the Winyah Bay and the Atlantic Ocean in Georgetown County, South Carolina. This expansive property offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an intriguing destination for visitors.

The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, also known as HICA or the Halsey, is a non-profit, non-collecting contemporary art institute. It is located within the School of the Arts at the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina. The institute is dedicated to presenting contemporary art exhibitions by emerging or mid-career artists.

The Hagood-Mauldin House, located in Pickens, South Carolina, is a property of significant historical value. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which is a testament to its importance and the role it has played in the history of the region. The house offers a unique glimpse into the past, with its original construction dating back to around 1856.

Hollywild Animal Park, located in Wellford, South Carolina, is a non-profit zoo that spans across 100 acres. The park is home to more than 500 animals, providing a diverse and engaging experience for visitors. The vast variety of animals and the expansive space make it an ideal destination for animal lovers and families alike.

Kalmia Gardens is a mature botanical garden situated in Hartsville, South Carolina. It is part of Coker University and is located at 1624 West Carolina Avenue. The garden is open daily and does not require an admission fee, making it an accessible destination for tourists and locals alike.