Most people from South Carolina know that Charleston is the oldest town in the state. But what most people don't realize is that the original site of the Charleston settlement was a few miles away from the much loved penninsula on which she now rests. In 1670, the first European settlers sailed a short distance up the Ashley River, landed, and then formed the very first settlement. Ten years later, in 1680, as the settlement grew to include dwellings on the other side of the river (known then as Oyster Point) the colony was moved to what is now downtown historic Charleston.

Thanks to South Carolina and our fabulous state parks system, you can visit the site that made up part of that first colony, and see a replica of the ship those colonists arrived on.

During a tour, you can even board the vessel. We'd love to show you the inside, but we'd spoil the fun for your visit, right?

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is more than just a momentary stop.

You can spend an hour, if that's all you have, or you can spend at least half a day exploring all this fantastic site has to offer.

The property encompasses 664 acres of the original colony. On this adventure, you'll make your way all the way south to Albemarle Point, where the settlers landed and built their village.

Here, you'll find replicas of buildings that are era-specific to when the colonists arrived and began building their settlement.

The park's History Trail is the perfect place to begin your exploration. In all, the park has six miles of trails, including the History Trail that winds through the old settlement.

Along the way, you'll discover the massive earthen walls the colonists created to protect against land attacks. You'll also see the reconstructed palisades, complete with cannons at the ready.

Charles Towne Landing is one of only a handful of original settlement sites that are still undeveloped in the country.

After you've explored the History Trail, take a breather, relax and enjoy the quiet solitude. Be sure to take in the gorgeous views and absorb the fact that you're sitting in the very spot that South Carolina's first colonists called home.

When you're ready, there's much more to explore!

The animal forest is waiting!

The forest includes animals those first colonists may have encountered in the Charleston area way back then. You'll see bison, bears, alligators, puma, otters, various birds, and more. It's a short walk, mostly on boardwalk and well worth the journey. The animal forest is best enjoyed outside of the hottest summer months.

Before you leave — or as soon as you arrive — be sure to stop by the visitor's center. You'll find more information about the site, historic displays and a small gift shop.

As far as history goes, Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site rivals many of the revered and popular plantations in the Charleston area, although it has slightly different attractions to explore.

You'll find the site of where South Carolina's first settlers landed at 1500 Old Towne Rd., Charleston, SC 29407. They are open 363 days per year from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (They are closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.) Admission costs are: $10/adult; $6.50/S.C. Senior; $6/youth age 6-15; Free for children 5 and younger.

Find out more on the official website of South Carolina State Parks.

While you're in the Charleston area, consider making the journey out to Johns Island to see the Angel Oak Tree. Trust us: you won't regret it.