This isn’t a proper post about the South Carolina Governor’s Mansion Complex since I couldn’t take a tour. As far as I can tell, they’re only doing them virtually right now.
Governor’s Mansion Complex
But the grounds themselves are beautiful. The mansion complex sits on nine acres on top of Arsenal Hill and used to be part of an old military academy before the Civil War. By 1869, it was turned into the Governor’s Mansion. The block around it is now a beautiful space for South Carolinians to relax and celebrate. A family was taking graduation photos during my visit.
A wide, brick-lined avenue splits the block down the middle. In the center is a modern fountain, which wasn’t operating on my visit.
On one side is the Governor’s Mansion, but it’s set back far enough that you can’t really see it from the street. It looks to have some nice filigree ironwork on either side of the front.
The other side of the block has two historic houses, one on each end, with a beautiful, expansive garden between. On one end is the Lace House, a venue for weddings and other special events. On the other is the Caldwell-Boylston House, which holds the mansion staff and a welcome center. (I honestly didn’t try the door, but maybe I should have!)
The Lace House 
The Caldwell-Boylston House 
The Gardens
The gardens are the real attraction here. It’s like a series of rooms. You turn a corner just to discover a whole new plot of land. There are fountains and swings and groves of mature crepe myrtles. One section is set up for outdoor weddings. Another is a memorial garden with a wide lawn. It feels cooling to walk through in the heat of the afternoon.
a fountain with swings 
garden paths 
a grape arbor 
fountain amid the crepe myrtles 
a fountain in the memorial garden 
a wedding space 
Mansion Tours
The Governor’s Mansion is a private home, but tours are given of the public rooms downstairs. Tours are usually given Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 10:00, 10:30, and 11:00. Summer hours are only Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If you want to take a tour, check in at the Caldwell-Boylston House or try calling 803-737-3000. There is an online form, but it didn’t work for me.
While the mansion itself doesn’t seem to be open to tours, the rest of the complex is open from 9-5 Mondays-Fridays.
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