While in Charles City visiting plantations, don’t miss this one — the first plantation in Virginia. Built in 1613, Shirley remains a working plantation and family home to the 11th generation of the Hill-Carter family. Tour the Great House, which houses original family artifacts and furnishings, as well as eight Colonial outbuildings and gardens. Guided tours are also offered throughout the day. Special events are scheduled throughout the year. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.