Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Charleston, SC
Welcome to Charleston. Meet your group this evening for a get-acquainted reception and dinner at the hotel. THE MILLS HOUSE
Day 2 - Charleston/Manigault House Tour
Start the morning with an orientation at the Charleston Visitors Center, followed by a guided tour of Manigault House. Rice was South Carolina's economic base in the early 19th century. Profits from growing and trading it made possible the buildings, which comprise Charleston's noted architectural heritage. Among the most elegant of these is The Charleston Museum's Joseph Manigault House, a National Historic Landmark. Designed by gentleman architect Gabriel Manigault for his brother, Joseph, this three-story brick town house is an exceptional example of Adam-style, or Federal, architecture. The Manigault family descended from French Huguenots who came to America to escape persecution in Europe. Many of the rooms have been restored to their original (and often unexpected) color schemes. Continue today's tour with a visit and lunch at Boone Hall Plantation, originally built in the mid 18th century and rebuilt in 1935 with materials salvaged from the original home. The house is a southern planter's manor, where hostesses interpret antebellum life and customs as they describe furnishings and household accessories of the past three centuries. Once a cotton plantation, Boone Hall has nine original slave cabins. Walk along the famous Avenue of Oaks framing the approach to the home, where massive, moss-draped branches meet overhead, forming a natural cathedral nave. Take a coach trip into the still-working plantation grounds to learn about its historic uses, about salt marshes and about bird life in the area. This opportunity is an event not open to individual visitors. THE MILLS HOUSE
Day 3 - Charleston/Boone Hall Plantation/Middleton Plantation
This morning begin with a guided walking tour at Middleton Place, one of the South's most enduring icons. Wander through America's oldest landscaped gardens. Begun by Henry Middleton in 1741, they reflect the grand classic style that was in vogue in Europe at that time. Following the principles of Andre le Notre, the designer who laid out the gardens at the Palace of Versailles, Middleton paid close attention to the use of woods and water. Rational order, geometry, balance and points of surprise were all parts of this garden's design. While visiting the plantation, learn about the role four generations of the Middleton family played in America's history from 1741 through the Civil War. After a sumptuous buffet luncheon, pay a visit to America's only tea garden at the Charleston Tea Plantation. The Lowcountry provides just the right weather conditions. Observe the process of tea making and enjoy the farms unforgettable views. Return to hotel in time for dinner on your own in Charleston. This evening, you might consider an optional cruise on the river, or stop in and listen to local music at one of the local pubs. THE MILLS HOUSE
Day 4 - Beaufort/Savannah
Take a drive through the South Carolina Lowcountry en route to charming and historic Beaufort and its numerous interesting antebellum homes. Enjoy a musical review highlighting the town's history and traditions. You'll have time to try one of the quaint restaurants along Bay Street before heading off to Savannah, where moss laden trees, antebellum homes, monuments and museums date back some 260 years. This evening walk to the Savannah Theatre to attend a performance of "Broadway on Bull Street". The performers give their regards to Broadway as they perform show-stopping hit songs from everyone's favorite musicals. The show features classic dance routines and comic re-creations of some or the most beloved moments in Broadway history. Return to your hotel late this evening. HILTON SAVANNAH DESOTO
Day 5 - Tybee Island/Historic tour and progressive dinner
Hear tales of Savannah's Lowcountry and barrier islands as you exit the historic area and travel via Ardsley Park and the charming fishing village of Thunderbolt. Once part of Georgia's coastal defense system, see Fort Pulaski on Cockspur Island, with solid brick walls seven and a half feet thick and Fort Screven on Tybee Island, in use up to 1947. Enjoy views of the Tybee Lighthouse and the picturesque beach. Return to the historic area where there is time to stroll the City Market and visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. You are in for a special treat late this afternoon. Embark on a unique historical tour that envelopes you in the architectural diversity, parks and squares, and culinary delights of Savannah as you progress through a three-course meal, highlighting the time honored tradition and savory favorites for which the South is renowned. HILTON SAVANNAH DESOTO
Day 6 - Savannah/Farewell Dinner
The spring departure will have admission to the Tour of Homes when gardeners come to admire a virtual riot of color from blooming azaleas, camellias and magnolias. The fall departure visits one of the country's top aviation Museums and the Owens Thomas House. Lunch is at Lady & Sons, with the fabulous fare of Paula Deen, host of the popular "Paula's Home Cooking" on the Food Network and local restaurateur. Come hungry and be prepared for the sweetest tea this side of the Mississippi. Your farewell dinner this evening is at the hotel in Magnolia's Restaurant HILTON SAVANNAH DESOTO
Day 7 - Return home
Following breakfast this morning, depart for the airport on your own and your return flight home.
Travel Dates & Rates, Ask Agent
- Land only rate is per person based on double occupancy.
- Airfare is not included. Please inquire about our competitive rates at the time of booking.
- Pre/post nights are available upon request. Reservation deposit is $350 per person. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Prices subject to change without notice until time of deposit. All dollar values not denoted as US or CA are in US Dollars. |
