3 Best Sights in Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand, South Carolina

The true star of Archibald Rutledge's home (he was the poet laureate of South Carolina for 39 years until his death in 1973) may not be his 18th-century plantation house but the centuries-old Washington Oak in the yard, a now-massive tree saved by the first president. The mansion's exterior has been restored; cutaway sections in the finely crafted interior show the changes made through the centuries. There are walking trails and picnic areas on the grounds. You can also learn more about the slaves that toiled on the plantation, as well as freed people who made their homes in the area after empancipation.

Built in 1735, this National Historic Landmark overlooks the North Santee River and is surrounded by moss-draped live oaks, magnolias, and tree-size camellias. The mansion has a fine Georgian staircase and hand-carved lighted-candle moldings. Tours focused on the lives of the enslaved people who worked here and the Gullah culture of their descendents occur Tuesday through Thursday and sweetgrass basket-weaving workshops are held on Thursday. The River Oak Cottage Tea Room on-site serves a full menu of Southern treats.

Overlooking the Sampit River from a bluff is this sprawling historic home (circa 1769) that's notable for its collections of regional antiques and furnishings and its Chippendale and Duncan Phyfe furniture, Royal Doulton vases, and silver. Events at the Kaminski House include summer outdoor concerts on the lawn.