HISTORIC DOWNTOWN. Although not built by him, this 19th-century structure was the residence of former SC governor, William Aiken, Jr. He and his wife furnished the home with the spoils of their trips to Europe, and the gracious estate is unusual in that it hasn't been restored to a pristine condition, as so many historic sites are. Instead, the home is preserved as it was when finished more than 150 years ago, although with the effects of time added in. Some furnishings remain, but shadows of the past remain for visitors to wonder about. A basement, various outbuildings, and slave quarters can also be viewed. Docents ably provide details about the estate.

MOUNT PLEASANT. The two most impressive sights at this plantation are the Avenue of Oaks, majestically lining the road to the plantation house, and the slave cabins, built in the 1790s and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The main house is a replica, built in the 1930s. The plantation hosts several major festivals throughout the year, including the Lowcountry Oyster Festival in February, the Scottish Games and Highland Gathering in September, Taste of Charleston in October, and a battle re-enactment in November.

NORTHWEST CHARLESTON. This estate, built between 1738 and 1742, is considered one of the finest examples of Georgian-Palladian architecture in the United States. It was also the only plantation in the area not destroyed during the Civil War. Its salvation was gained when owner John Drayton informed Union troops that his home was being used as a smallpox hospital. It was thus spared from damage or destruction.

HISTORIC DISTRICT. This Greek Revival mansion, dating to 1825, offers spectacular views of Charleston harbor and presents priceless displays of historical documents, antiques, silver, and china. The home was originally Federal in style but was renovated in the 1830s to accommodate contemporary tastes. Guided tours available.

SULLIVAN'S ISLAND. Although it fell into disuse more than once, Fort Moultrie has a lengthy history of coastal defense. The original structure was built in the 1770s, but it was abandoned by the British when they captured Charleston in 1780. The second structure at the site was destroyed by a hurricane in 1804. The current fort was built in 1809, with a few modernizations along the way. Part of a chain of forts designed to protect the South Carolina shore from various invaders, Moultrie eventually grew to encompass most of Sullivan's Island, and is today part of the Fort Sumter National Monument. The Visitor Education Center, at Liberty Square, has detailed historical information about both forts.