We booked a Magnolia Plantation tour with Adventure Sightseeing because the timing and location of departure were convenient. Our tour guide and driver, Alan R., was a hoot. Sounds like John Goodman, and even though he's a transplant from up north, he knows his stuff. He gave us details about Charleston as we left the city and headed to the plantation. He was funny and informative at the same time. We arrived at the plantation, and Alan led us through one of the gardens, and deposited us where we were to pick up a tram to take us through deeper parts of the grounds. That part of the tour was also impressive. We saw gators, turtles, and all kinds of birds and other wildlife indigenous to the area. Lots of photo ops. Next stop was a tour of the house, and the docent was again well informed and funny. We grabbed a quick lunch at the concession stand, and headed back to Charleston. When Adventure Sightseeing says that this is a 4 1/2 hour tour, they aren't kidding. We left the visitors center at 10:30, and arrived back at 3:00. A great and fun experience!