We booked a tour and it was lovely. It included transportation and tickets. Due to covid Taxis and Ubers were hard to find in April. I suggest this option. Way easier and you wont get stranded.

The house itself, although beautiful, takes a very short time to see. You can't go up to the second floor (not sure the reason why) and the back room on the first floor called the 'man cave' you are not allowed to go in anymore after the whole COVID phenomena. What takes like about an hour is the wagon ride outside across the property. It is actually very informative. Then you can walk along one side of the property where the old slave quarters are situated, which shouldn't take you that long, unless you decide to stop at the last one at the end to listen to a small presentation about the set culture an customs of the slaves. Unfortunately, I personally lost interest after a few minutes watching the presenter wearing a plastic face shield on stage and wearing time-era attire. Because of it, you kind of lose the momentum.

I seem to remember they are closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

You are required to purchase the tickets before you enter the plantation at the ticket booth. The Row of Oaks begins soon after you pass that ticket booth. There is no additional fees to see all attractions.

Lots of paid parking available on site but no indoor photography allowed.

I would say 2-3 hours

If there are no tours just take an Uber. Uber is very popular in Charleston and you will have no trouble getting one. Make sure you do the Horst and buggy in Charleston. Very informative. Enjoy!

He did our tour. I believe that he is a Boone Hall guide.

Yes, they have a little café. We only got drinks. Didn't seem like a full menu.