Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion

4.6(170)

Museum

About

The Hampton-Preston Mansion, built in 1818, offers a glimpse into Columbia's antebellum elite with guided tours through its restored interiors and expansive gardens. The four-acre grounds feature Italianate-style gardens with native and exotic plants, shaded benches, and a multi-use glasshouse for horticultural research and events.

The gardens are open daily and provide a serene setting for small group gatherings or outdoor receptions. While the mansion's historic architecture presents some accessibility challenges, the venue's rich history and lush landscapes create a distinctive backdrop for business events seeking local character and a peaceful atmosphere.

Best for

Historic tours & cultural immersion
Outdoor client receptions & garden strolls
Intimate team retreats with unique ambiance

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Venue Details

Standout features

Historic Architecture

Early 19th-century mansion with rich antebellum history

Built in 1818, the mansion was once home to elite families and reflects Columbia’s grandest residential architecture of the era. Its history includes ownership by Wade Hampton I, a prominent planter, and features expansions that doubled its original

Gardens

Four-acre Italianate-style gardens with diverse plant collections

The grounds feature themed gardens including children’s, fountain, arboretums, and a horticultural center. The gardens blend native South Carolina species with exotic plants, reflecting historic landscaping by enslaved workers and recent restoration

At a glance

Rated 4.6 on Google · 170 reviews