This South Carolina Ancient Tree Is The Coolest Thing You’ll Ever See For Free

If there is one thing locals and visitors alike love about the Lowcountry of South Carolina, it's the tree-lined streets framed by lovely old live oak trees. Whether you're admiring one of the many tree tunnels in the Palmetto State or driving a short distance out of your way to see the oldest live oak tree in the state (below), you can't help being awestruck by their majesty. Even better? This awe-inspiring natural wonder is one of the best things you can do in South Carolina for free!

Located in a protected and free to visit park owned by the City of Charleston, the Angel Oak Tree is, by far, the coolest thing you'll ever see in South Carolina without spending a dime.

Her history predates the first settlement in Charles Town in 1670 by at least 51 years, possibly even more.

Experts estimate the ancient tree is anywhere from 400 to 500 years old.

Considering the hurricanes that routinely pass through the area, this is a remarkably tough old tree.

But it hasn't always been so lucky. Hurricane Hugo in 1989 did horrific damage to the Angel Oak; damage of the sort that has taken decades to recover from.

In 2018, Allstate Insurance produced an ad featuring the Angel Oak and saluting the Carolinas for their strength in bouncing back from Hurricane Florence.

It's nearly impossible to take your eyes away from this living wonder.

At her base, she has a circumference of 28 feet. The longest limb span is 189 feet, and she throws a shadow that's more that 17,000 square feet.

When was the last time you reconnected with this extraordinary natural wonder in South Carolina?

Walking into Angel Oak Park is like stepping into a real-life fairy tale. This humble park in South Carolina is home to trees that are between 300-500 years old, and while they're not towering giants like those found on the West, they are no less resplendent. This modern-day miracle easily tops the list of best things to do in South Carolina for free, and it's a place that belongs on every Palmetto State explorer's bucket list!