Exploring the Historic Districtis an essential part of any visit to Beaufort and should not be missed as you are sure to be taken in by Beaufort’s charm and beauty.
The original settlement of Beaufort, the second oldest city in South Carolina, can be found in the downtown or historic district area. Beaufort was one of the only Southern towns chosen to be occupied by Union troops, rather than destroyed. It is also one of only a handful of U.S. towns that has had its entire downtown designated an historic district by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Beaufort’s Historic District is filled with mansions built by wealthy plantation owners before the Civil War and more than 50 historic structures have been identified here, including many private homes that have been beautifully restored, with some of the oldest buildings dating back to the 1700s.
There are several ways to see the Historic District. A self-guided tour is easily made, as Beaufort’s downtown is relatively compact and pedestrian friendly; a guided-walking tour while listening to guides touch on the history of Beaufort as well as the stories of the past; relax and enjoy Beaufort in a horse-drawn carriage or bus tour; or take a river tour and view Beaufort’s riverfront homes from the intracoastal waterway.
No matter your interest, seeing the historic district will give you the best appreciation of Beaufort’s history and charm.
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