Lowcountry Excursions
The following is an example of the daily schedule in the spring, summer, and fall seasons. It is subject to change.
Creek Cruises- 11 a.m., 1, 2, and 3 p.m. Daily
Cruise on a 48-foot pontoon boat along historic ricefields now home to alligators, waterfowl, and osprey as an interpreter helps you see the distinctive landscape of the rice plantations and understand the role of enslaved Africans in the cultivation of the rice crop. Tickets are $7- adults and $4 - children in addition to the garden admission and must be purchased at the Lowcountry Center at least 10 minutes before tour time. The Springfield departs from the boat dock at the Lowcountry Center. In April, additional creek excursions are at 4 and 5:30 p.m.
Southern Trek: The Oaks and the Alstons - 2 p.m. Daily
Tour back roads to the Oaks Plantation, former home site of the prominent Alston family, and walk through the cemetery where generations are buried. Hear the story of Joseph Alston, an early SC governor and his lovely wife Theodosia, daughter of Vice-President Aaron Burr and learn about the rice culture that dominated this region for hundreds of years. Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children in addition to the garden admission and must be purchased at the Lowcountry Center at least 10 minutes before tour time. Excursions last approximately 50 minutes. Not recommended for children under six years of age.
Northern Trek: Laurel Hill Families and Fortunes- 11 a.m. 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. Daily*
Ride with an interpreter along an avenue of historic Live Oaks to a plantation cemetery, a Civil War earthen fort site, and a historic rice mill chimney. From the top of one of the area’s highest bluffs, see a panoramic view of the Waccamaw River. Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children in addition to the garden admission and must be purchased at the Lowcountry Center at least 10 minutes before tour time. Excursions last approximately 50 minutes. Not recommended for children under six years of age. * 3:30 p.m. excursion is not offered in March.
The Oaks History and Nature Trail - 12 - 3 p.m. Daily
The Oaks Plantation History and Nature Trail brings to life an important element of history “off the beaten path”. Through interpretive panels along the natural walking trail visitors learn about the story of The Oaks Plantation and see archaeological sites that include the plantation owner and slave areas. Transportation to The Oaks Plantation History and Nature Trail is only by mini-bus which departs on the hour from 12 noon until 3 p.m. outside the Lowcountry Center. Tickets are $3 per person and must be purchased at the Lowcountry Center least 10 minutes prior to departure time.
