All open air museums to visit in South Carolina

Experience history come to life at open-air museums in South Carolina. These museums feature historical buildings, reenactments, and interactive exhibits in an outdoor setting.

Are you interested in experiencing history firsthand? These are the best open air museums in South Carolina:

  1. Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site1

    Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

     Charleston, SC
    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.
  2. Brookgreen Gardens2

    Brookgreen Gardens

     Murrells Inlet, SC
    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.
  3. Oconee Station State Historic Site3

    Oconee Station State Historic Site

     Walhalla, SC
    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.
  4. Kings Mountain State Park4

    Kings Mountain State Park

     Blacksburg, SC
    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.
  5. Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site5

    Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site

     Camden, SC
    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.
  6. Brattonsville Historic District6

    Brattonsville Historic District

     McConnells, SC
    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.
  7. 7

    Roper Mountain Science Center

     Greenville, SC
    The Roper Mountain Science Center, situated in Greenville, South Carolina, is a unique establishment that offers a variety of facilities for studying life and natural sciences, space, and physical sciences. It is part of the Greenville County School District, making it an integral part of the local educational infrastructure. The center was initiated through a unique partnership between public and private resources, with planning starting in 1982 and the center officially opening in 1985.