Things To Do Near Reconstruction Era National Historical Park
The Reconstruction Era National Historical Park is divided into four distinct areas. Start your visit at the Old Beaufort Firehouse as it serves as the visitor center, and many guided walks start at this location. Explore Darrah Hall at Penn Center as it was one of the first schools set up for free slaves. Over 8,000 freed slaves took control of Brick Baptist Church after the Battle of Port Royal, and you will want to explore this site where white and black people worshipped together during the Civil War. Camp Saxton Site is where the Emancipation Proclamation was read at Port Royale, and you will want to explore this area and see the displays located there.
Hiking Trails
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Spanish Moss Trail
The trailhead for the Spanish Moss Trail is off Clarendon Road north of downtown Beaufort. This 10-mile paved trail runs by many historical sites in Beaufort before ending at Port Royale. For the most part, this trail follows the former Magnolia Line Railroad.
Location
Clarendon Road, Beaufort, South Carolina 29901
Length
10 miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve Trail
The trailhead for the Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve Trail is at the parking lot off Sawmill Creek Road near Bluffton, South Carolina. This trail, which runs around and across this property, is a great place to spot migratory birds because there are 60 depressed wet areas. You can often see deer and other wildlife along the trails. Be careful about hiking at this location during the fall as the facility is open for archery deer hunting.
Location
Sawmill Creek Road, Bluffton, South Carolina 29910
Length
4 miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Pickney Island Trail
The Pickney Island Trail at the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge starts on the north end of the island and crosses through the salt marshes to the south end of the island. You may see alligators while hiking on this out-and-back trail. Watch for signs to this location as you are nearing the end of the bridge.
Location
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, Pickney Island, South Carolina
Length
0.43 miles
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Hunting Island State Park
Head to Hunting Island State Park to play on five miles of beaches. Climb the lighthouse to see amazing views of the Lowland area. This park, which covers more than 5,000 acres, is an excellent place for wildlife viewing.
Location
2555 Sea Island Parkway, St Helena Island, South Carolina 29920
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Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
Watch the ships come in at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. There are terrific places to watch the sunset. This park also features a spacious children’s playground.
Location
Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
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Beaufort National Cemetery
The Beaufort National Cemeterywas established in 1863 for the internment of Union soldiers. The cemetery is laid out in a half-circle design. This is a gorgeous area along the Beaufort River to explore.
Location
1601 Boundary Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Museums
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Port Royal Sound Foundation Maritime Center
Explore ecology, recreation, and other aspects of life in Port Royal by visiting the Port Royal Sound Foundation Maritime Center. Be sure that you see their 3,000-gallon aquarium filled with local fish. This museum often hosts special family-focused activities.
Location
310 Okatie Highway, Okatie, South Carolina 29909
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Beaufort History Museum
Soldiers originally constructed the Beaufort History Museum in 1799 as a brick-and-tabby arsenal. The arsenal was used during the Civil War. See old cannons at this location, along with local history.
Location
713 Craven Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
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Parris Island Museum
Located at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in South Carolina, this museum highlights local history and the history of the United States Marine Corps. It is also an excellent place to learn about the Charlesfort-Santa Elena National Historic Landmark.
Location
111 Panama Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29905
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Bay Street Outfitters
Find fishing gear at Bay Street Outfitters. They also offer guided fishing trips.
Location
825 Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
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Wild Birds Unlimited
Learn more about the birds in the Beaufort area by visiting Wild Birds Unlimited. You can buy birdseed and houses at this shop to encourage birds to come to your yard.
Location
2139 Boundary Street Suite 106, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
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Plums Restaurant
Get your favorite po’boys, sandwiches, and burgers at Plums Restaurant. This restaurant has been serving customers since 1986. Indoor and outdoor dining are both available.
Location
904 Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
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Gilligan’s Seafood Restaurant
Find fresh seafood served in a casual atmosphere at Gilligan’s Seafood Restaurant. You are sure to love the friendly atmosphere of this restaurant where the whole family is welcome.
Location
2601 Boundary Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902