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Step into the story of Port Royal, South Carolina, one of the oldest European settlement sites in North America, established in 1562. Our Museum/Visitor Center is open to all, with free admission, you'll be greeted at the door by a knowledgeable Docent offering information wrapped in southern charm. The Historic Port Royal Visitors Center & Museum is your gateway in understanding this remarkable Lowcountry town: it’s Native Americans, the European explorers, it’s plantations, the reconstruction era after the Civil War, it’s seafood harvesting heritage, the international port that was, the Port Royal Railroad, the natural ecology of the surrounding wetlands and the generations of families who built this community. Located at 1800 Paris Ave, it’s the first building to the left as you turn onto Paris Ave into historic Port Royal. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, shark tooth displays, documents from the past along with it’s resource library. The Visitor Center can help you navigate the area providing information as to things to do and see, where to shop and our great restaurants featuring local seafood. Our gift shop sells Port Royal branded items, books and local artwork. We even have some fun activities for the kids! Whether you're a history lover, a Lowcountry local, or a visitor exploring the Beaufort area, Port Royal has a story worth knowing and is a perfect area to visit. Come discover Port Royal. Founded in 1977, The Historic Port Royal Foundation’s mission is to protect, preserve and promote the history of the Town of Port Royal and assist Port Royal’s visitors. We are a 501C non-profit museum and visitor center run by an all-volunteer Board and Docents. We manage and run Port Royal’s Museum and Visitor’s Center as well has hosting town events.