crazy tourist charleston sc

• South Carolina
• United States

56 Fun and Unusual Things to Do in Charleston, SC

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Looking for fun things to do in Charleston ? You’re in luck – there’s plenty to see and do in this beautiful harbor city.

Charleston doesn’t hold the official title of South Carolina’s capital, but this waterfront city is the undisputed heart of the state’s history, entertainment, and art, with a past that spans everything from American settlement to the dark ages of slavery and the Civil War, up to its modern status as a vibrant cultural hub, Charleston boasts activities suitable to any and every kind of tourist.

And then there’s the food. Famous for its traditional shrimp and grits, Charleston also offers mouth-watering cuisine with strong soul food and Southern influences. With so much to see, do, and experience, make sure to add the Holy City to your bucket list.

1 – Check out the Fort Sumter National Monument

Noted for its historical significance as the location of the battle that ignited the American Civil War , Fort Sumter is an essential destination for any Charleston visitor.

Old-school cannons, real shrapnel, and historic brick fortitudes line the area; complementing its role in shaping modern America, the monument in its own right is visually impressive, thanks to its location directly overlooking the water . Tickets cost for it cost US$39  and they include the ferry ride to the attraction.

• Fort Sumter National Monument tickets

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2 – Charleston ghost tour

With a tumultuous 300-year history, Charleston is considered one of the most haunted cities in America . Walkthrough the paranormal places like the Old Exchange dungeon , while hearing spooky tales of orphan poltergeists and the centuries-old residents who never truly left.

For a unique twist on the more traditional ghost tour, combine the spooks with a bar crawl , or even take to the open waters on a haunted cruise that sails through sites of pirate attacks and naval battles. Most of the tours cost in the US$25 to US$75 range, including the cruises and the pub crawls.

• Charleston ghost tours

3 – Meet local artists at the Charleston City Market

Considered the cultural heart of Charleston , the Charleston City Market has been a longstanding icon, welcoming locals and tourists through its historic doors since the early 19th century.

Nestled inside the 200-year old brick buildings are over 300 vibrant pop-up shops , with countless arts and crafts vendors to make for the perfect unique souvenir.

After exploring one of the nation’s oldest public markets, the waterfront and its many restaurants are within a 10-minute walk .

4 – Step back in time at the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

With its doors open to visitors for over 150 years (since 1870, to be exact), Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is well-deserving of its official title as the oldest public garden in America .

The sprawling 464-acre property includes a maze and small zoo (which kids absolutely adore), a conservatory, cafe, and a theatre — where guests can sit back, relax, and watch a 30-minute film detailing the fascinating history of this nearly-400-year-old Plantation. These tours can cost from US$80 to US$120 , whereas tickets are US$33 .

• Magnolia Plantation tours

5 – Walk under the oaks at the Drayton Hall Plantation

Overlooking the Ashley River, about a 25-minute drive from downtown Charleston , the Drayton Hall Plantation holds the title of the oldest unrestored plantation house in America that remains publicly accessible.

Founded in 1742, it’s also the oldest example of Palladian architecture . 125 acres of oak trees, ponds, and riverways surround the main house, ensuring a beautiful atmosphere to provide contrast to the eye-opening history lessons. Tickets range from US$10 to US$75 , depending on the experience that you’re looking for.

• Drayton Hall Plantation tours

6 – Enjoy a long day of fun at the local waterparks

The Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark (in North Charleston Wannamaker County Park) is packed with rides and attractions, including massive 65-foot-tall slides , a 27,000-square-foot wave pool , a rolling river, a big splash tree house, and a lagoon for the little ones.

If you just need a place to cool down for a few hours, the Splash Zone Waterpark is a smaller summer playground with an open and a tube slides, a lazy river, and a leisure pool. Kids will love the rainforest play structure and there are stands to buy food and drinks.

7 – Board a Charleston Harbor sightseeing cruise

Considering its location on the shores of the Atlantic, it’d be remiss of any traveler to overlook a Charleston sightseeing cruise . By day or as the sun sets, climb aboard the historic “Carolina Belle” for history fused with relaxation.

As the live narration echoes over the decks, travelers can soak in views of some of the Holy City’s most renowned landmarks, including Fort Sumter , the USS Yorktown , and the Ravenel Bridge .

Boat tours start at US$40 , but can go up to US$150 if you want a bit more adrenaline with a speed boat , or even above US$500 if you’re looking for a luxury private cruise .

• Charleston boat tours

8 – Explore the stunning gardens at Middleton Place

Boasting some of the most exquisitely preserved gardens of any former rice plantation in the country, the 65-acre, 300-year-old Middleton Place presents as an inviting place to spend an afternoon.

While the amazing landscaped gardens are an attraction in their own right, the property also houses a museum , live entertainment , farm animals , and offers a humbling tour that takes visitors on an educational journey into the former slave trade. These tours range from US$100 to US$125 .

• Middleton Place tours

9 – Race go-karts at Charleston Fun Park

True to its name, an abundance of fun awaits at the family-friendly Charleston Fun Park !

Drift around corners on the high-speed go-karts , compete with your friends across 36 holes of mini-golf , unleash your inner Viking in the ax-throwing arena , or immerse yourself in virtual reality activities .

Whatever your fun flavor, as one of the best things to do in Charleston, this beloved attraction has got you covered.

10 – Tour on a horse-drawn carriage in Charleston

Step back in time and rest those weary feet by exploring the vibrant city streets on an old-fashioned horse-drawn cart .

Carriage rides are offered all day , from morning through to moonlight, covering some 30 blocks of Charleston ‘s most colorful, historic, and tourist-friendly streets. These tours cost around US$50 .

Spice it up by taking a haunted horse-drawn tour , during which the guide will happily share all of the city’s spine-tingling stories.

• Charleston carriage tours

11 – Spot dolphins on a kayak tour

Ditch the harbor cruise ship packed with selfie-obsessed tourists and explore an incredibly biodiverse region of Charleston instead: the tidal marshes .

Kayakers are guided through the flat waterways by a knowledgeable wildlife expert , moving at little more than a leisurely pace.

With tours limited to 12 people , each seated in their own kayak, the likelihood of getting up close and personal with loggerhead turtles or bottlenose dolphins is high. You can expect one of these tours to cost around US$50 .

• kayak tours in Charleston

12 – Experience music in an intimate, candlelight setting

The magic of a live orchestra concert rises to a whole new level when you’re surrounded by flickering candlelight. These one-of-a-kind concerts take place in some of the most iconic venues in Charleston , including the beautiful Unitarian Church , a National Historic Landmark.

Experience Vivaldi’s Four Seasons or the holiday magic of The Nutcracker in a multi-sensory experience like you’ve never seen before. Or enjoy a unique tribute to musical stars like Beyoncé or Fleetwood Mac. Or get a ticket for Classic Rock on Strings , where you’ll listen to famous songs from Aerosmith to The Rolling Stones.

• candlelight concerts in Charleston

13 – Taste local treats on a dedicated food tour

Tantalizing tourists’ tastebuds with a combination of fresh seafood and classic Southern fare , the city-wide menu is second-to-none in the taste department.

Join a local chef or foodie (because locals always know best) and traverse through the city’s backstreets and alleyways, sampling a collection of the area’s most famous dishes — like grits, fried oysters, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Hush Puppies — while learning about Charleston’s intricate history the whole way through.

These experiences can cost around US$110 , but there are some that include a cooking class that can go up to US$250 .

• food tours in Charleston

14 – Go hiking at the Caw Caw Interpretive Center

Once a crucial part of several rice plantations, the Caw Caw Interpretive Center now serves as a giant, tourist-friendly breath of fresh air, offering picturesque elevated boardwalks that traverse across the wetlands, swamps, marshes, and woodlands.

All in all, the sprawling park hosts nearly 10 kilometers of hiking opportunities , with its diverse terrains welcoming deer, wild turkeys, and woodpeckers , just a few of the countless local species.

15 – Discover the beauty of Charleston with a walking tour

Nestled in the historic downtown district, straddling the waterfront, White Point Gardens provides plenty of shade to enjoy a stroll or a picnic through beautiful greenery.

The gardens, situated adjacent to the Battery (the city’s iconic defensive seawall and promenade), provide unbeatable views of both Fort Sumter and the sparkling Charleston Harbor.

Depending on which walking tour you choose, you might also walk by Rainbow Row and its pastel-colored historic homes, the expansive Joe Riley Waterfront Park , and the multi-layered Pineapple fountain , a popular spot for photos.

These tours have a wide range of prices depending on their focus and what’s included, but generally they’re in the US$20 to US$40 range.

• Charleston city walking tours

16 – Stroll down the Shem Creek Boardwalk

Make sure the camera batteries are charged because Shem Creek is widely considered to be the most picturesque waterway in the entire Lowcountry region.

Located in Shem Creek Park , the creek itself is home to plenty of boat tours  (including kayaking and fishing ) – although the simplest and cheapest way to soak in the ambiance is with a leisurely stroll down the 2,200-foot-long Shem Creek Boardwalk .

After tiring out the legs, the area is teeming with restaurants and bars to relax for an hour or two.

17 – Get the heart racing at Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park

Step out of your comfort zone (literally) by crossing the tightropes at Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park.

Situated on James Island , about a 10-minute drive (or 20-minute bus trip) for mainland Charleston, Wild Blue boasts outdoor adventure courses for people of all ages and abilities .

Low ropes will suit the youngsters and beginners, while the higher, more complicated sections are perfect for the ultimate adrenaline-seekers. The ticket for this park is US$60 .

• Blue Ropes Adventure Park tickets

18 – See the genuine confederate submarine: the H.L. Hunley

As a former confederate submarine turned unique educational experience , the Hunley is a must for any history aficionado .

Thanks to its historical significance, Friends of the Hunley has justifiably become one of the city’s most popular attractions for both locals and tourists.

The Hunley was the first submarine to ever successfully sink an enemy ship during wartime; this event, as well as the broader Civil War, plus plenty of interactive exhibits are sure to keep kids and adults entertained for at least a couple of hours.

19 – Feel the thrills on a narrated speed boat adventure

Turn the dial up a notch with a high-octane sightseeing speed boat cruise !

During the roughly 2-hour narrated tour , guests can take the helm of their own private jet boat, carving through the waves at high speeds and admiring impressive landmarks like the Battery and the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier at the same time.

The speed boats operate year-round , although it’s wise to bring a jacket if visiting in the winter (it can get mighty windy on the waters!). These tours can cost from US$80 up to US$200 .

• Charleston speed boat tours

20 – Step into the Antebellum era at the Aiken Rhett House Museum

For an exceptional insight into the Antebellum (slavery) era in America, look no further than the Aiken Rhett House Museum .

Guided tours of the property take guests on an informative journey through the main house, the original slave quarters, the carriage block, and the backlot.

Combined, the experience conveys a valuable lesson into the daily realities of the enslaved Africans that once lived and worked within its walls.

The 1818 townhouse is located smack-bang in the middle of downtown Charleston , presenting as an easy activity to fit into any day of exploring.

21 – Tour of the Philip Simmons House

Being a city with diverse cultures and a storied past, The Philip Simmons House tour beckons history buffs — it’s underrated, it’s educational, and it pays homage to the man who dedicated his life to creating beautiful ironwork throughout the city.

The house itself boasts a distinctive double porch and elegant detailing throughout every room; architectural elements that reflect the recognizable Charleston style.

But it’s the deep dive into Simmons’ work — who remains among the greatest African-American artists of the 20th century — that draws people in.

As you walk through the house (which has been designated a National Historic Landmark ), you’ll be surrounded by Simmons’ intricate ironwork creations, which line the walls and furnishings. From ornate gates to delicate sculptures, each piece tells a story.

Accompanied by a local expert , you’ll not only get to see some of his best work, but you’ll also learn all about Simmons’ life , the techniques he employed to create his stunning art, and Charleston’s broader 350-year-old African-American community.

Besides the house itself, most tours will also meander around the area, checking off notable landmarks like Mother Emanuel AME Church and the New Tabernacle Fourth Baptist Church .

• Philip Simmons House tours

22 – Visit the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

With 80 acres of park gardens , the only zoo in the Charleston area, a picturesque oak alley, and 10 kilometers (6 miles) of walking trails , Charles Towne Landing is a stunning slice of Mother nature, ideal for an afternoon of exploring.

Complement its beauty, the area also carries enormous historical significance: as the location where British settlers landed on American soil way back in 1670, the historic site recreates the life and times of South Carolina’s early settlers in a preserved centuries-old village .

23 – Embark on a fishing trip

Join a knowledgeable skipper and head out to the open ocean where you’ll try your hand at reeling in a few fish!

While many chartered fishing tours find their best catches around local Lowcountry areas like Kiawah Island or Folly Beach, the highly-experienced captains follow the fish.

So no matter where you end up anchoring, expect at least a few bites from the likes of barracuda, triggerfish, and red snapper .

• fishing in Charleston

24 – Marvel at the staircase in the Nathaniel Russell House

Glimpse into the long-gone world of America’s elite slave-traders with an informative tour of the neoclassical, two-centuries-old Nathaniel Russell House .

Guided walkthroughs take guests throughout the home, highlighting points of architectural, historical, and cultural significance.

The three-story staircase is an architectural gem and a regular crowd favorite; meanwhile, the lessons learned and tales told are truly eye-opening.

25 – Try a few blends at Deep Water Vineyard

Sporting the title of South Carolina’s only winery, the 50-acre Deep Water Vineyard is an unmissable locale for any wine connoisseur visiting the area.

The wine list includes several varieties of white and red muscadine wines , and yes, tastings are offered !

Combine a tasting with a cheese platter to add that extra element of fancy to the perfect day-trip getaway.

26 – Learn the city’s history at the Charleston Museum

Officially the oldest museum in America , the Charleston Museum has been showcasing artifacts and welcoming guests since, remarkably, 1773.

In addition to its intriguing exhibits that span from prehistoric fossils all the way to modern times, including ‘Charleston in the Revolutionary War’, ‘Lowcountry History’, ‘City Under Seige’, and ‘Kidstory’, the museum is also connected to two historic homes: the Heyward-Washington House and the Joseph Manigault House .

The museum is conveniently situated in the Wraggborough neighborhood, not too far from the Aiken-Rhett House Museum — making for the perfect back-to-back itinerary.

• Charleston Museum tickets

27 – Go surfing at Folly Beach

Ideal for beginners who’ve never or rarely hit the waves, a professionally-instructed surf lesson on the shores of Charleston Folly Beach is an unmissable outdoor activity — especially on those hot and sticky summer days.

Best of all, the surf companies provide all the equipment and even pick you up from your hotel . All you need to bring is a smile and a can-do attitude! For intermediates and experts, skip the lesson altogether and simply rent your own board .

Not up for surfing? The Folly Beach County Park & Folly Beach Pier have plenty more to offer. Go swimming, take a walk on the soft sands, visit the Morris Island Lighthouse , or enjoy some fishing on the pier.

• surf lessons in Charleston

28 – Sample the flavors at the Charleston Tea Garden

Coffee snobs, take a bake seat — this one is for the tea lovers !

The Charleston Tea Garden (formerly the Charleston Tea Plantation) proudly sells itself as the only tea garden in North America where tea bushes stretch out as far as the eye can see, thanks to its 127 acres of Camellia Sinensis plants .

Notably, the garden is free to visit — just shell out a few bucks for the optional trolley tour, or for some take-home loose-leaf from the gift shop.

29 – Check off all the city’s main attractions on a bus tour

Ideal for first-time visitors short on time, looking to get a quick overview of all that this East Coast city has to offer, Charleston’s wide range of bus tours is a great way to check off the quintessential landmarks and get your bearings. The prices are very varied as well, and can go from US$25 to US$150 depending on the tour.

The most typical bus tour, which focuses on run-of-the-mill sightseeing, lasts around 90 minutes and makes its way around downtown Charleston and its delightful historic residential areas.

You’ll be able to tick off the top attractions — Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park, the Battery, White Point Gardens, Nathaniel Russell House, and St. Michael’s Church, to name a few — as you go, with given for a couple quick selfies at each stop. And, with a local expert tour guide by your side the whole way through, you can rest assured you’ll get the inside scoop on the city, not just the usual tourist fluff.

Prefer something a bit different? For partygoers, you’ve got party bus brewery tours that whisk you around Charleston’s buzzing craft beer scene. Or, for history buffs, you can combine a history-focused bus tour with a ticket to the Charleston Museum.

• bus tours in Charleston

30 – Dive into a dark history at the McLeod Plantation Historic Site

Since its establishment in 1851, the McLeod Plantation has played host to some of the nation’s darkest and most historically-significant times .

These times of slavery and inequality, and the stories which resonate from them, are detailed exceptionally well through the historic site’s permanent exhibits and knowledgeable tour guides .

Besides the main house and the outhouses, the grounds also include an outdoor pavilion , a stunning oak-tree alleyway , and the famous McLeod Oak , which is believed to be over 600 years old.

31 – Visit a historic landmark: the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon

A Charleston landmark for the better part of two and a half centuries, no trip to this Southern city is complete without at least a brief stroll through the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon .

While the majority of walking, cycling, and horse-drawn tours will pass by this renowned establishment, exploring the history within its walls — particularly, in the dungeon — is a must.

• Charleston city tours

32 – Understand the past at the Old Slave Mart Museum

When the notorious slave trade was still thriving in the South, this property served as an auction house, all the way up to November of 1863. Today, it remains one of the only slave auction galleries still in existence , and the only one in South Carolina.

Popular with visitors and locals alike, through true stories of former slaves, the Old Slave Mart Museum provides a unique and humbling insight into the region’s tumultuous past — an insight that very few museums across the country can replicate.

33 – Grab a beer or two at Palmetto Brewery

The owners of Palmetto Brewery are chuffed to call themselves South Carolina’s first craft brewery , and the hordes of thirsty customers are equally chuffed to drink there!

With both seasonal and mainstay brews, including mouth-watering IPAs, lagers, fruity ales, and even cookie-flavored stouts, there’s a taste for every palate.

Make sure to sample the Idle Speed — an undisputed crowd favorite. Can’t decide what to drink? Then opt for a tasting flight!

34 – Stare in awe at the enormous Angel Oak

Resembling a real-world Whomping Willow and thought to be one of the oldest living oak trees east of the Mississippi River, the Angel Oak on Johns Island is unlike any other tree on the planet.

Towering over 20 meters high (66+ feet) with winding roots and sprawling branches, this tree makes for the perfect selfie backdrop.

The impressive slice of mother nature is totally free to visit, providing plenty of shade for a relaxing picnic on the grass .

35 – Join a Schooner Pride sunset sailing tour

There’s no better way to let afternoon steer into the evening than sailing with unrivaled panoramic views of the city’s harbor from the decks of a classic tall ship.

Camera at the ready; the 84-foot-tall ship sails past staple landmarks like Fort Sumter , Patriots Point , and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge , while also often coming in contact with pods of friendly bottlenosed dolphins .

• sailing boat tours in Charleston

36 – Touch a stingray at the South Carolina Aquarium

More than 5,000 sea critters call the South Carolina Aquarium home, encompassing stingrays, sharks, horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and prickly urchins — just to name a few.

Besides the traditional aquarium tanks, visitors are blessed with the chance to watch the staff in action at the Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery , learning about the efforts that help sick and injured turtles make it back to full health.

The price of the tickets varies daily, but you can expect it to be in the US$30 to US$40 range most of the time.

Kids are sure to obsess over the interactive touch-tanks too.

• South Carolina Aquarium tickets

37 – Channel your inner Picasso at the Gibbes Museum of Art

With a number of permanent and rotating exhibits , there’s no better place to experience the city’s vibrant contemporary art scene than the Gibbes Museum of Art — one of the nation’s oldest arts organizations.

Far from a run-of-the-mill museum, Gibbes manages to blend excellent art with the intricate story of Charleston’s history .

38 – Take the kids to the fun Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry

A museum dedicated to encouraging curiosity and learning through play , the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is a small but busy space is perfect for families . Kids will love the hands-on displays and play stations here, and adults might end up learning a thing or two as well!

Spaces include an art room , a studio where kids can create their very own theater show , an “air room” where kids can play with spheres and objects floating in mid-air, and a pirate ship ready to take visitors back in time.

Toddlers have their own play space , and there’s a garden filled with flowers, plants and butterflies.

39 – Treat yourself with a luxury dinner cruise

With a menu of delectable Southern dishes , live music , and a full-service bar , a smooth-sailing dinner cruise on the harbor is an absolute must for any Charleston visitor.

After indulging in the freshly-made 3- or 4-course dinner , head to the open-air observation deck (or stay inside in the air-conditioned section) for unmatched views of the city’s most photographed landmarks.

If luxury is the name of the game, a cruise is one of the best things to do in Charleston!

• Charleston dinner cruises

40 – Say “cheers!” at Firefly Distillery

Vodka aficionados , stop whatever you’re doing and add the Firefly Distillery to your Charleston bucket list! As the oldest working distillery in the city , Firefly has had plenty of time to perfect its craft — and the proof is in the product!

Make an effort to try the famous, hand-crafted, sweet tea flavored vodka , concocted from Louisiana sugar cane and local tea leaves.

If the schedule lines up, try to head to the distillery on the weekend — with groovy live music , the atmosphere is turned up a notch!

41 – Take a front-row seat at the Charleston Music Hall

Showcasing a constantly rotating calendar of world-famous artists , every night is something special at the Charleston Music Hall .

In addition to concerts spanning the entire genre spectrum, the hall also hosts comedy night and special events (like Christmas extravaganzas) — check out the venue’s schedule to see who’s performing during your visit.

Hint: book in advance — thanks to its reputation as one of the best things to do in Charleston, the shows often sell out.

• Charleston Music Hall tickets

42 – Take in the cool breeze at Riverfront Park

This relaxing green space is ideal for a picnic or to catch the views over Cooper River . Sit back, relax and soak up the sun. Or try the swings, walk the length of the beautiful pier, and then have lunch at one of the picnic tables.

If you’re visiting in April , try to grab tickets to the High Water Festival , which takes place in the park and offers not only great music on two stages, but also great food and drinks. Every October , the park also hosts the Riverfront Revival , dedicated to country music and great local cuisine.

43 – Create your own perfume at Tijon

Join over 18,000 people who have created their signature scent at Tijon ; one of the most fun activities to do in Charleston.

Each guest receives a lab coat, workbook, detailed instructions and then chooses from over 300 oils making three perfumes and bottling and naming the one they like best .

The most difficult task for most is naming their perfume.

• perfume workshop in Charleston

44 – Eat at Charleston’s top-rated restaurant, Halls Chophouse

Foodies, get excited! Thanks to its prime steaks, delicious Lowcountry meals, and fresh seafood specialties, Halls Chophouse continues to hold the coveted title as the best eaterie in the city (according to TripAdvisor).

With a collection of dishes as delicious as they are photogenic, it’s no wonder that this revered Charleston establishment has managed to maintain a 5-star rating .

There’s only one way to truly experience its wonder: book a table!

45 – Appreciate local musicians at the Forte Jazz Lounge

Sporting a reputation as the only dedicated jazz listening room across the entire Holy City, the Forte Jazz Lounge is an essential stop for any audiophiles planning a visit in the near future.

A rotating fixture of local musicians take center stage in the cozy, New York-style lounge; meanwhile, guests can sit back, soak it all in, and enjoy a craft beer or bottle of bubble from the fully-stocked bar.

• Forte Jazz Lounge tickets

46 – Catch a comedy show at Theatre 99

Laugh your socks off at Theatre 99 , Charleston’s beloved home of improv comedy.

Much more of a theatre than a traditional comedy club, this 130-seat venue puts on hilarious displays of active improv performances that encompass props, body language, and even the occasional audience participation

It’s a far more elaborate and immersive experience than just a comedian waxing jokes into a microphone.

Shows typically take place on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings .

47 – Visit the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Board the USS Yorktown, a World War II-era aircraft carrier, and walk in the steps of war heroes. It’s a must-visit for any history buff.

• USS Yorktown Tour

48 – Scour the fresh produce at the Charleston Farmers Market

Widely considered as one of the premier shopping hotspots in the city, the Charleston Farmers Market is teeming with fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods and locally-made jams, and quirky arts and crafts vendors.

Thanks to its convenient location in Marion Square in the city center, the Farmers Market is an easy activity to add to any Saturday morning itinerary .

49 – Be treated like royalty at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Featuring an oceanfront hotel , 5-Star accommodations, world-class amenities, and, of course, not one but five perfectly curated golf courses , the Kiawah Island Golf Resort is known near and far as one of the nation’s best.

Book a tee time, head to the spa or Nature Center, rent a bike to explore the area or head to the Turtles’ Nest Art Studio — you’ll be spoiled for choice for things to do!

50 – Go on a King Street shopping spree!

With a growing reputation as one of the top 10 shopping districts in the USA (as judged by high-profile publications like Forbes), King Street is a shopper’s paradise epitomizing Southern charm.

From expensive international brands to vintage stores, and one-of-a-kind boutiques like Blue Bicycle Books or Croghan’s Jewel Box , this strip has it all.

After maxing out the credit card, choose from an abundance of restaurants, bars, and clubs to cap off the evening (or even party into the early hours of the morning).

51 – See your favorites at the Music Farm Charleston

If you are visiting Charleston and want to spruce up your night out with some live music, dancing, or comedy , then The Music Farm should be at the top of your list.

More than just another nightclub, the venue has played an important role in the city’s music scene for the past 30 years.

Recently renovated , this gem in the heart of the city is better than ever and guaranteed to have you coming back for more.

• Music Farm tickets

52 – Make some friends on a Saltwater Cycle party boat

Promising to be an unforgettable couple of hours on the waters of the Lowcountry, Saltwater Cycle combines sightseeing with socializing and plenty of drinks to boot.

The captains are friendly and happy to orchestrate some icebreaker games, the music is pumping, and with a BYO policy, there’s sure to be plenty of new friends made along the way.

53 – Visit the historic Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

Situated just 30 minutes from the main haunts of Charleston , guests might already recognize Boone Hall from its role as the backdrop in Nick Cassavetes’ The Notebook .  You can book a comfortable tour to this attraction for around US$70 .

However, this historic landmark is far more than a movie set — it’s an insight into America’s bleak past, with plenty to learn during expert-led tractor tours and Gullah culture presentations.

Even if history isn’t your cup of tea, the world-famous Avenue Of Oaks entranceway is worth a visit in its own right.

• Boone Hall Plantation tours

54 – Find hidden treasures with Charleston Fossil Adventures

Forget about activities like Ripley’s and Madame Tussauds — if you’re looking for something totally unique and exclusive to Charleston, sign up for a guided fossil hunting trip with Charleston Fossil Adventures .

They’ll provide the equipment, information, and transportation to find shark teeth , Native American artifacts , and whatever else the ocean throws up; all you need to bring is a sense of curiosity and adventure.

55 – Take center stage at the Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre and Shoppe

Become part of the murder mystery show at one of Charleston’s most cherished entertainment venues.

The engaging, interactive performances at Black Fedora are a hoot for the whole family, with appetizers, homemade desserts, and drinks capping off a great evening.

On the way out, stop in the gift store and check out all the quirky, mystery-themed souvenirs on display.

56 – Down a few beers on a Charleston pub crawl

The people of Charleston love to wet their whistles, and the statistics prove it. With that in mind, it makes plenty of sense that the city’s bar scene — particularly on King Street — is only increasing in popularity.

Avoid the tourist traps and uncover the hidden gems , the dive bars , and the favorite local haunts (often housed in historic buildings) by joining a locally-led pub crawl. For some extra pazzazz, combine the beers with a haunted city tour!

• Charleston pub crawls

How to get to Charleston?

Travelers arriving by air will fly into the Charleston International Airport (CHS), located about 12 miles outside of the city. An airport shuttle is available to get into Charleston, and visitors can also grab a taxi just outside the airport is they prefer not to share a ride.

For a hassle-free arrival directly at your hotel’s door, a private transfer is a better option. Comfortable vehicles are available to pick you up no matter the size of your party or how much luggage you’re carrying.

Visiting Charleston on a budget?

Want to save time and money when visiting Charleston? A Tour Pass is the best option to enjoy the best tours, tourist attractions, and historic sites at a discounted price.

Over 40 attractions with savings of up to 40% off retail ticket prices, including the Boone Hall Plantation, a Haunted USS Yorktown Guided Tour, the Museum at Market Hall, and the Aiken Rhett House Museum. Both one and two-day passes are available.

Where to stay in Charleston?

With a mix of beautiful historical properties lining up the city’s cobblestoned streets and brand-new offerings with modern touches, Charleston has much to offer when it’s time to rest.

Located in downtown Charleston is the Emeline , a four-star hotel that mixes the old and the new. Located near great shopping and restaurants, the Emeline also offers elegant and sophisticated rooms and great dining and coffee at their own cafe.

Offering 1920s glamour and an ideal location steps away from popular attractions, The Spectator Hotel is also a great choice. Get a gourmet breakfast in bed, enjoy the unique personalized butler service, and end your day at their Prohibition-style Bar. This is a stay you won’t forget.

Another popular stay in the city is The Vendue Charleston’s Art Hotel , an award-winning boutique hotel with a panoramic rooftop and a lobby that doubles as an art gallery.

• best hotels in Charleston

Where to go next?

Ready to keep exploring after a few days of fun and relaxation in Charleston? Located just 100 miles away from Charleston, Myrtle Beach offers plenty of fun things to do, including miles of white sandy beaches, almost 100 golf courses, many family-friendly attractions, and world-class restaurants.

Heading South? Check out our selection of fun & unusual things to do in Savannah , such as visiting their world-famous Historic District, touring gorgeous old mansions and parks, and enjoying the growing food scene.

If you’re up for more sugar-sandy beaches, Hilton Head Island is the perfect destination. There are plenty of green spaces (including the Sea Pines Forest Preserve) and historic tours to keep you busy for days.

Or head to Charlotte for an exciting day of shopping, visiting galleries and museums, or catching a sports game. Charlotte is also home to amusement parks, interactive museums, and the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Final thoughts

With its many historical churches, expansive parks, and waterfront spaces with beautiful beaches and harbors, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Charleston no matter your interests and budget.

There’s plenty of Southern charm to welcome you here, so go ahead and start planning your trip! With a mild climate and plenty of outdoor pursuits, Charleston won’t disappoint. Do you have anything you’d like to add to our list? Leave us a comment below!

As always, happy travels!

22 Best Things To Do In Charleston, South Carolina (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Trying to find great activities and attractions in Chucktown? Our guide to the best things to do in Charleston is all you need to plan the perfect trip!

Founded in 1670, Charleston, South Carolina, features cobblestone streets, historic houses, and horse-drawn carriages, making it a historically unique travel destination. 

Voted #1 for the most popular city to visit in the United States, Charleston is a prime location for stepping back in history or enjoying the eclectic Southern charm of the Carolinas. 

See the Fort Sumter National Monument and learn about the history of the War of 1812, or stroll through White Point Garden to absorb some peaceful greenery. Visit America’s oldest plantation at Drayton Hall, or take a boat tour around the harbor. 

Award-winning restaurants, pristine sandy beaches, and historical landmarks draw people worldwide to this enigmatic destination. 

Stop searching for what to do in Charleston. We’ve got you covered! 

Our list of the most fun things to do in Charleston will take a load off your back so you can start packing for a monumental trip to one of the most famous cities in the United States. 

Check out our 3 days in Charleston itinerary for more ideas on what to do in this amazing city.

Table of Contents

1) Explore Downtown Charleston

2) pet atlantic stingrays at the south carolina aquarium , 3) shop at the historic charleston city market, 4) peek into the history of the oldest city in south carolina at the charleston museum , 5) cruise down charleston harbor, 6) golf a few rounds at kiawah island golf resort, 7) walk down king street, 8) take a trolley tour of the magnolia plantation & gardens, 9) bask in the views at charleston waterfront park, 10) discover the history of fort sumter & fort moultrie, 11) learn about the ties of african-american history to charleston at the old slave mart museum , 12) stroll the white point gardens, 13) listen to the music at the charleston music hall , 14) observe distinguished local monuments at marion square, 15) visit the prestigious patriots point naval & maritime museum, 16) grab fresh produce at the charleston farmers market, 17) stop by for a factory tour of the charleston tea plantation, 18) tour an active archaeological site at the drayton hall plantation , 19) sink your toes in the sand at sullivan’s island , 20) step back in time at middleton place, 21) tour the aiken-rhett house museum , 22) take a day trip to folly beach, best hostel in charleston, best mid-range hotel in charleston, best luxury hotel in charleston, the best things to do in charleston, south carolina.

There are plenty of fun activities waiting to be explored in this historic city. 

From visiting the South Carolina Aquarium, to spending the day at Folly Beach, to admiring the historic homes and experiencing southern hospitality, we’ve created a list of the top things to do in Charleston during your stay. 

As the oldest and most populated city in South Carolina, Charleston hosts a wide range of activities in its downtown area. 

Exploring downtown is a must as this pristine part of Charleston preserves history through its charming historical and natural beauty. 

Walk down the impressive King Street, in the Charleston Historic District, which remains the second most historically and architecturally prominent street in Charleston. There are a plethora of boutiques, restaurants and art galleries here.

On this historical downtown  guided tour , experience the bustling cultural hub of downtown by horse-drawn carriage to witness highlighted areas like Rainbow Row, the Charleston Battery, White Point Gardens, Charleston Harbor, and 4 Corners of Law. 

Sitting on the historic Charleston Harbor, the South Carolina Aquarium boasts an award-winning education team and over 5,000 animals.

Dedicated to protecting local species through its conservation programs, the South Carolina Aquarium is committing to educating others to “sea the difference” in the impact marine life has on our daily lives. 

The waterfront location of the aquarium personifies every guest’s experience by presenting iconic views of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and the USS Yorktown. In addition, visitors can pick out wild dolphins playing in the water on the open-air decks.

Visit the Sea Turtle Care Center in the aquarium, where injured and sick sea turtles are rehabilitated before being released back into the wild. In addition, the “touch” interactive exhibit allows guests to touch wildlife like Atlantic stingrays and hermit crabs.

• Address:  100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours:  9am – 5pm
• Cost:  $34.95

Exploring more of the Carolinas? Here is our list of the best things to do in Asheville, North Carolina .

Stretching four blocks, the Historic Charleston City Market begins at the Market Hall, an architecturally significant building established in the 1830s.

Established in the 1790s, the Historic Charleston City Market is an opportunity for locals and tourists alike to take a glimpse into the Old South. The shopping hub is one of the country’s oldest city markets, packed with stalls that feature items like souvenirs, art, clothes, produce, and baked goods. 

Join a  haunted pub crawl  of the market to explore the seedy underbelly of supernatural origins and learn about low-country superstitions and respectable origins of some of the popular tourist stops in Charleston. 

• Address : 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours:  9:30am – 5pm

One of the top Charleston attractions, and one of the oldest museums in the United States, the Charleston Museum is the perfect Charleston activity for history buffs or those curious about history. 

The collection at this prestigious museum features two historic Charleston homes, the Joseph Manigault House and the Heyward-Washington House, historical artifacts, arts, natural history, and more. 

Founded in 1773, the museum is often regarded as “America’s First Museum” and has used many years of its establishment to develop a prominent collection that would eventually be featured among the finest in America. 

And to this day, the museum presents the most comprehensive collection of South Carolina materials in the nation. 

Take a peek at the historic textiles, the armory, and more with this  guided city tour  and museum combo to absorb the 300 years of Charleston’s living history by a climate-controlled coach.

• Address:  360 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours:  9am – 5pm (Opens at 12pm on Sundays)
• Cost:  Prices range from $5 – $25 depending on your age and which attractions you’d like to visit.  See the website for more details!

Serving as the major port for the city center, the Charleston Harbor represents a vital part of the city’s economy. 

As one of the most productive ports in the United States, the harbor stands a deep-seated role in the success and continuation of Charleston’s workforce as one of the top shipping ports in the industry. 

Guests can come to explore the greatness of the productive harbor by joining a  tour . Then, climb aboard the historic “Carolina Belle” to coast down the harbor to relax and learn about the enigmatic history of Charleston and other historical landmarks. 

Every golfer’s dream spot,  Kiawah Island Golf Resort , is a luxurious resort settled on ten miles of immaculate oceanfront views of the beach. 

Boasting world-class accommodations, this resort is a unique stay and Charleston attraction that is highly recommended. 

Come for a romantic getaway to this pristine, luxurious resort for a romantic stroll along the beach or a sun-kissed day of bathing in the sun on the beach. 

Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a resort like no other. Golfers can take their pick of five championship golf courses with backdrops of unrivaled iconic views for an unforgettable experience in Charleston.

• Address : 1 Sanctuary Beach Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
• Hours/Prices :  Check the website  for details about each course

The center of downtown Charleston’s vibrancy,  King Street , has been drawing in locals and tourists for hundreds of years!

This historical street homes more than 300 years of history. It is named after King Charles II of England and presents Southern charm to all who visit

The bustling street is split into three districts: Upper King Street Design and Dining District, Middle King Street Fashion District, and Lower King Street Antiques District. Each represents an essential aspect of Charleston’s history, catering to various tastes and passions. 

Present day, the street is full of fun activities and stores ranging from art galleries to fine dining restaurants. Plenty of shopping is to be had down the famous historical street thanks to the many unique boutiques, shops, bakeries, and more.

Heading south next? Check out our 3 days in Atlanta, Georgia itinerary

One of the oldest plantations in the South, the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its role in history. 

The Magnolia Plantation & Gardens was established in 1676 by Thomas and Ann Drayton, who arrived from Barbados. Immense wealth came to the plantation through its cultivation of rice. 

The Magnolia Plantation & Gardens soon became the oldest public garden in America, thanks to John Grimké Drayton, a generational successor who loved gardening and desired to create an earthly paradise for his beloved wife. 

After emancipation, previously enslaved workers continued to work at the plantation and gardens as paid garden staff.

Guests can explore the historical background on a trolley tour of the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens while witnessing the famous gardens’ stunning flowers, trees, and other features. 

• Address:  3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
• Cost:  $29 for general admission,  extra attractions may cost more

A top location to soak up the local vibes of the city, Charleston Waterfront Park features stunning views of Cooper River and the harbor. 

With more than ten acres of area to stroll and explore, the park offers exceptional waterfront views to be admired. The serenity and peace offered by this picturesque location can transform into a romantic spot pre- or post-lunch, dinner, or even a space to sit back and soak it all in. 

Near the northern end of Charleston Waterfront Park, guests can walk down the pier that juts into the harbor. Plenty of benches, porch swings, and picnic tables are available to rest or sit back to enjoy the view. 

• Address:  Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours:  7am – 9:30pm (7:30am – 10:30pm on Sundays)
• Cost:  Free

Another one of the best things to do in Charleston is visit Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie. 

Fort Sumter, a sea fort built on an artificial island, was established to protect Charleston from naval invasion. It dates back to the War of 1812, when the British invaded Washington by sea. 

Unfortunately, the fort was still incomplete when the Battle of Fort Sumter began, beginning the American Civil War. It is now known as Fort Sumter National Monument.

Fort Moultrie is scattered as a series of fortifications on Sullivan’s Island. Initially named Fort Sullivan, its establishment of palmetto logs inspired the origins of the South Carolina flag and the nickname of “The Palmetto State” for the state of South Carolina. 

The fort was renamed after General William Moultrie, the U.S. patriot commander in the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. 

Called the Guardians of Charleston Harbor, both forts play a huge role in history, and with a visit to both of the forts, visitors can discover interesting historical facts.

Visit the  National Parks Website  for details about visiting the forts. 

Book your entry ticket and ferry ride to Fort Sumter National Monument on  Get Your Guide !

Established in 1859, the Old Slave Mart Museum was once an antebellum slave auction gallery. Believed to be the last extant slave auction facility in South Carolina, the Old Slave Mart Museum is the first African-American slave museum. 

Frequently staffed by individuals that can trace their family history to the enslaved people of Charleston, history shows that as many as 40% of enslaved people came to the United States through Charleston. 

Since then, the museum has been added to the National Register of Historic Places due to its role in African-American history. 

Visitors can step inside the Old Slave Mart Museum to read interviews of formerly enslaved people, along with informative posters meant to educate others on the trying history of the United States. 

• Address:  6 Chalmers St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours:  9am – 5pm (Closed Sundays)
• Cost:  $8

Settled in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, the White Point Gardens is a significant Charleston landmark that offers stunning views of the harbor and Fort Sumter. 

Initially famous as a spot where dozens of pirates were hanged and left as deterrents for other pirates tempted to enter the harbor, White Point was a hot spot in history. 

After the outbreak of the Civil War, White Point Gardens, first used as a public garden in 1837, became a fortification for the city. 

Today, visitors can witness the enigmatic display of cannons and mortars used in the Civil War to protect the city of Charleston, as well as a stunning array of antebellum mansions and massive oak trees decorated with Spanish moss. 

• Address:  2 Murray Blvd, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours:  7am – 9:30pm
• Cost:  Free

A venue for a range of entertainment, including comedy shows, concerts, and theater and dance performances, the Charleston Music Hall is situated inside an impressive 19th-century Gothic Revival building. 

Next door to two award-winning hotels and three nationally acclaimed restaurants, the Charleston Music Hall offers a prestigious location in downtown Charleston. 

Set inside a listening room, meant to create an intimate environment to impose a personal interaction between artist and audience, the music hall allows for a unique experience. 

Every seat offers excellent acoustics so that no matter where you sit, you get the best seat in the house! Catching a show here is definitely one of the best things to do in Charleston. 

• Address:  37 John St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours/Prices:   Check the website  for showtimes and ticket prices

Read next: 17 Best Things To Do In Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Initially established for various purposes,  Marion Square  is now a sought-after greenspace spanning almost seven acres in downtown Charleston. 

Situated between King Street and Meeting Street, the square is a verified national landmark filled with history and beauty. 

In the past, the square was designed as a defensive wall against the local Native Americans. By the late 1700s, this was no longer necessary, and the property was handed over to the Charleston city government. 

In the present day, Marion Square is surrounded by prestigious buildings and hosts seasonal farmer’s markets and a variety of local events. 

Strolling through the area, visitors can observe impressive monuments like the statue of South Carolina native John C. Calhoun, an American Vice President, U.S. Senator, and Secretary of War. 

Located in Mount Pleasant, the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is settled on the harbor across from Charleston. 

The museum was established to present the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, a World War II aircraft carrier, as the centerpiece. 

Since its establishment in 1976, the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum has gone on to host a fleet of National Historic Landmark ships along with the Cold War Memorial, the only Vietnam Experience Exhibit, the Patriots Point Museum, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, and the official Medal of Honor Museum of the agency. 

Featuring the most important education and overnight camping programs in the United States, the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is proud to educate others on the history of the United States and honor those that served. 

• Address:  40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
• Hours:  9am – 6:30pm
• Cost:  $27

Hosted in Marion Square since 1989, the Charleston Farmers Market welcomes locals and tourists weekly!

The local vendors feature fresh and local produce, crafts, and other fun products. Voted as the “Best Attraction” and “Best Outdoor Event” repeatedly, the Charleston Farmers Market is dedicated to supporting Lowcountry farmers and growers while presenting locals and tourists with fresh, inventive options for produce and food options. 

In addition, the live entertainment, various activities, and local crafts allow for an exceptional experience to sink into the unique Charleston environment. 

Meet with the locals or fellow tourists as you scour your options of fresh produce and souvenirs to take home! 

• Address:  329 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours:  8am – 2pm Saturdays

Read next: The Perfect 3 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

Originally a 127-acre potato farm, the  Charleston Tea Plantation  is now an essential part of American history. 

After many unsuccessful attempts at propagating and producing tea from the Camellia Sinensis plant from China, tea was finally grown for the first in the United States in 1888 in Summerville, South Carolina. 

The tea plants were transported to the Charleston Tea Plantation to rehabilitate the plants before producing them successfully again. 

Nowadays, visitors can stop at the Charleston Tea Plantation for a factory tour and scenic trolley ride of the farm to explore the history of tea and its massive role in the United States. 

• Address:  6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487
• Hours:  10am – 4pm (Opens at 12pm on Sundays)
• Cost:  Free admission and $15 for a trolley tour

For more than 250 years, the  Drayton Hall Plantation  has been an active archeological site featuring an extensive collection of rare 18th and 19th-century artifacts. 

A visit to Drayton Hall personifies the Southern colonial lifestyle for a step back in time. Holding a critical educational responsibility, the plantation represents the evolution of life in the South though Drayton Hall was not a working plantation. 

Instead, Drayton Hall functioned as the commercial center for John Drayton’s plantation empire, totaling 76,000 acres. It is the oldest unrestored plantation house in America, and one of the top tourist attractions in this southern city. 

• Address:  3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
• Hours:  9am – 3:30pm, Closed Tuesdays

An island town in Charleston County,  Sullivan’s Island  is famous for its award-winning restaurants and sandy beaches. 

The island was first settled in the late 1700s by Captain Florence O’Sullivan and has since played a significant role in history. The site of a major Revolutionary War battle, known as The Battle of Sullivan’s Island, the island was also where the first shots were fired in the American Civil War. 

People from all over the world come to sink back and relax on the pristine beaches of Sullivan’s Island, considered the most stunning in all of the Lowcountry. 

Come explore this historic and beautiful island where the famous author Edgar Allen Poe was stationed as a private in the U.S. Army. He used the island as the background for his story, “The Gold Bug.” 

Homing the oldest landscaped garden in America, Middleton Place is now a National Historical Landmark representing Charleston and America’s history. 

Once a plantation, Middleton Place has working stableyards, award-winning gardens, and historic homes to educate all who visit this rich piece of land. 

In addition, Middleton Place preserves a legacy of understanding the Middleton family and the enslaved people, the founder that led the Continental Congress, and his son that signed the Declaration of Independence. 

Here, stories are told to be shared with others and passed on from generation to generation, from the enslaved to the free. 

Spend the night at the Inn, stroll through the award-winning gardens, sit down for a bite to eat at the Restaurant, or explore the museum and stable yards at Middleton Place for an unforgettable step back in time. 

• Address:  4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
• Hours:  9am – 5pm 
• Cost:  $29

The historic home of an influential family of the 1800s, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum is one of the best-preserved townhouse complexes in the nation.

Nationally significant, the home was built in 1820 by merchant John Robinson, then expanded by the Governor and wife in the 1830s, and then again in the 1850s. 

For 142 years, the historic house remained in the Aiken family until it was sold to the Charleston Museum. 

Offering guided tours, visitors can tour the Aiken-Rhett House Museum to learn exciting facts not found on the internet about this historic house. 

• Address:  48 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours:  10am – 5pm
• Cost:  $15

For a fun day of sun, sand and surf, head over to Folly Beach. 

Located on Folly Island just 25 minutes away from the Charleston city center, Folly Beach is a gorgeous seaside area full of tourist attractions. 

Stroll down Folly Beach Pier, go shopping on Center Street, or have a picnic in the County Park. Or just splash around in the Atlantic Ocean and sunbathe on the soft white sand. 

Also, consider visiting Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve to watch the sunset over Morris Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in 1876 and is another one of South Carolina’s historic sites. 

Or you can  book a guided boat tour  and search for Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins. 

Spending the day at Folly Beach is one of the most fun things to do in Charleston, especially if you’re traveling with kids. 

Where to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina 

Now that you know the best things to do in Charleston, it’s time to find the best places to stay! 

Situated in the historic Elliotborough neighborhood in Charleston,  Notso Hostel  offers a range of rooms, including private or dorm rooms for its guests.

In addition, this accommodating hostel provides private parking, breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and an excellent location for all of Charleston’s top attractions. 

Less than two miles from USS Yorktown State Park and less than five miles from the Charleston Museum,  Staybridge Suites – Charleston – Mount Pleasant , an IHG Hotel, offers a range of desirable accommodations, including free Wi-Fi, private parking, a buffet or American breakfast, and a fitness center. 

In addition, guests can sit back and relax at the seasonal outdoor swimming pool or grab some sun on the sun terrace. 

A luxurious and aesthetically pleasing hotel,  The Pinch Charleston  is settled in a pristine and desirable location near the Charleston Museum and the city center. Guests receive accommodations such as free bikes and a 24-hour front desk. It’s one of the best luxury hotels in this city full of rich history. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Charleston (South Carolina)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 12, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

South Carolina’s most beautiful, as well as its biggest and more historic city, Charleston is one of the top vacation spots in the entire American south.

Although Charleston isn’t officially the capital of South Carolina, locals and millions of tourists who visit every year agree that this picturesque city holds the top spot as a keeper of the state’s history, entertainment, culture, and art.

You can go back in time when you enter Charleston as its past is home to American settlement, the dark ages of slavery, and the Civil War.

While ancient plantations and beautiful museums are often peppered with humbled history lovers, adrenaline junkies, foodies, and party lovers find their peace rejoicing numerous thrill-filled water sports, delicious foods, and exciting nightlife!

Rightly termed as a vibrant cultural hub by residents and tourists, Charleston boasts exciting activities suitable for all kinds of tourists.

This city is a combination of the fast-pace of a big city and the southern hospitality associated with the surrounding area.

Table of Contents

1. The Battery

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Checking out The Battery is one of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

It has nothing to do with electronic devices, as this peninsula goes back to the Civil War days.

This is one of the most beautiful Charleston attractions and is great for a family outing.

The history of The Battery makes it one of the best things to see in Charleston, South Carolina.

Originally for the artillery battery that was once posted here, it’s since become a wonderful promenade.

Visitors love going for strolls along this land and seeing the beautiful homes.

White Point Garden is an amazing part of The Battery, with lots of reverence paid towards military heroes.

If you’re looking to recharge, you need to come to The Battery.

It’s amazing how it’s evolved from defense means to a phenomenal place for socializing and relaxation.

A visit to the Battery is something you must do when in Charleston.

Address: East Battery & Murray Blvd., Charleston, SC 29401, USA

2. Zero George

Zero George

There are numerous reasons to check out Zero George , which is one of the best boutique hotels in the south.

At this Charleston, South Carolina attraction, you can experience lots of fun activities and be amazed by the striking beauty of your environment.

This isn’t just a place for sleeping in between sightseeing.

There’s lots of fun stuff to do at Zero George, such as cooking classes and attending art shows.

The Zero Restaurant + Bar is the optimal place for having a romantic meal.

If you need things to be modified in any way, the staff will be happy to cater to your whims.

Should you be staying in downtown Charleston and really want to live it up, you should book a room at Zero George.

This is definitely one of the top 10 hotels in Charleston, South Carolina.

You’ll quickly see why it’s among the best places to go for people who are serious about having excellent lodging experiences.

Address:  0 George St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

3. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Jack Nevitt / Shutterstock

One of the top things to do in Charleston, South Carolina is to go to the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens .

A Charleston institution that goes back to 1676, Magnolia Plantations & Gardens offers lovely scenery and plant life and much more.

Coming here might be the best history lesson you have during your entire trip.

The gardens are definitely key in this being one of the best tourist attractions in Charleston, South Carolina.

For over 300 years, one family has been operating these gardens.

The opulent colors of flowers like daffodils stand out even more when you consider how storied the history of these gardens is.

At Magnolia Plantations & Gardens, you can see one of the most important points of interest in South Carolina.

Hours for this Charleston attraction can vary based on what time of year it is.

For general garden admission, it’s $20 for adults and $10 for children, ages six to 12.

Address:  3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

4. King Street

meunierd / Shutterstock

There’s a lot of things to do in downtown Charleston, but your best bet for where to roam around is King Street.

This has become a beloved part of Charleston, South Carolina for denizens and visitors to experience all kinds of entertainment.

When you’re looking to have fun in Charleston, King Street is a great choice.

With over three centuries of history, King Street is one of the most important places to visit in this city.

It’s lots of fun to go to specific attractions or just brace yourself for whatever might come your way.

It’s also worth reading up on King Street’s history, as it experienced serious trouble as a result of the Civil War.

However, the mid-20th century and on has been very good to King Street.

The great sights of King Street are numerous and there are many unique things to do.

It’s been through some rough times, but it’s come out stronger than ever.

When you’re looking for fun things to do in Charleston, South Carolina, King Street needs to be a priority.

5. Charleston Farmers Market

Jeramey Lende / Shutterstock

One of the best shopping activities in any worthwhile city is going to its farmers market.

The Charleston Farmers Market is one of the top ones in the south.

You can come to Marion Square at downtown Charleston and pick up some of the most scrumptious produce you’ve ever come across.

Goin to the Charleston Farmers Market is what to do if you want to see how wonderful this city is.

Beyond buying great produce, you can also find fantastic flowers and see some lovely live performances.

On Saturdays, Marion Square becomes something of a city-within-a-city.

You haven’t fully experienced Charleston, South Carolina until you’ve been to the farmers market.

It’s so much fun to explore the market grounds and accumulate more shopping bags.

The Charleston Farmers Market is open on Saturdays from April to November from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Address:  329 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

Going on a road trip around South Carolina? Don’t miss our lists of things to do in Greenville, SC  & things to do in Columbia, SC !

6. John Pope Antiques

John Pope Antiques

Antiquing isn’t just something your grandmother does.

One of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina is to go to John Pope Antiques.

This is an excellent antique shop full of cool items.

Operated by the eponymous John Pope, this shop is located on King Street.

His collection includes many great decorative items, such as chandeliers.

They might be older pieces, but they can feel new and wonderful when you bring them home.

Coming to John Pope Antiques is one of the most unexpectedly enjoyable activities in Charleston, South Carolina.

If you’re looking for a great entryway to the past, coming to John Pope Antiques is one of the best activities available.

The curation and Pope’s expertise alone should draw you in.

Address:  180 King St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

7. Waterfront Park

Possessing a very apt name, Waterfront Park is a great South Carolina attraction for experiencing wonder on land and sea.

You can come to Waterfront Park full of energy or feeling fairly mellow and end up satisfied either way.

This park makes a great case for Charleston as one of the most beautiful places in USA .

Providing great visual access to the Charleston Harbor, Waterfront Park is one of the top places in Charleston for just sitting back and seeing boats go by.

One of the most exciting attractions is the pineapple fountain, which might have you salivating for a tropical treat.

You can also spot pelicans hanging by the piers or flying.

Waterfront Park is something you must see if you want proof of how impressive a park can be.

One of the most amazing places to visit in South Carolina , Waterfront Park continues to engage and delight visitors.

It’s open every day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

8. Sullivan’s Island

Henryk Sadura / Shutterstock

One of the most beautiful natural tourist attractions in Charleston, South Carolina is Sullivan’s Island .

If you’re looking for things to do in Charleston this weekend, you should come here with your family.

Sullivan’s Island is an area outside of the city that offers plenty of amazing sights.

Fairly small, at a little over three square miles in area, Sullivan’s Island is nonetheless one of the most engrossing places to visit in the whole south.

One of the greatest lighthouses in the country is the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse.

You also need to spend some quality time on the beach, doing things like building sandcastles or fishing.

Going to Sullivan’s Island is one of the most fun things to do in Charleston.

If you’re curious about how to plan a vacation to Charleston, South Carolina, Sullivan’s Island is a great thing to put on your list.

Coming here is what to do if you want to be beside the water and beside your loved ones.

TIm J. Nichols / Shutterstock

Charleston, South Carolina is one of the top food cities in the entire south, and Husk is one of the best restaurants in the city.

This beloved eatery takes the beauty of southern cooking and mixes it with some serious sophistication.

You’ll be having a meal that’s both hearty and complex.

Chef Sean Brock has put together one of the most intriguing menus of any restaurant in Charleston.

While the options can change, you can be assured that there’s always going to be great things available.

Some items that have been served at Husk include cornmeal-dusted catfish and southern-fried chicken skins.

Going to Husk is what to do in Charleston if you want to see how unique southern cooking can be.

It’s one of the best things to do in Charleston when you’re looking for a place o eat with your partner.

Address:  76 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

10. South Carolina Aquarium

Daniel M. Silva / Shutterstock

One of the most fun things to do in Charleston is to go to the South Carolina Aquarium .

The marine life of the city can be appreciated even more here, one of the best Charleston attractions.

If you’re looking for places in South Carolina that teach you a lot about fish and other species, you should come here.

Lots of amazing species can be observed at the South Carolina Aquarium, and the staff does an excellent job of making sure they’re as comfortable as possible.

If you’re traveling with your kids, they’ll love being able to see animals like otters and sharks.

Exhibits like “The Shallows” and “Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery” give even more awareness of the importance of marine life preservation.

For family entertainment activities in Charleston, you should come to the South Carolina Aquarium.

It’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $29.95 for adults and $22.95 for children, ages three to 12.

Address:  100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

Visiting other areas of South Carolina? Why not check out some of the things to do in Myrtle Beach  & some of the things to do in Hilton Head ?

11. Charleston Tea Plantation

Thomas Trompeter / Shutterstock

Wadmalaw Island’s sole tea plantation, Charleston Tea Plantation is one of the best places to visit in Charleston for seeing how an amazing plant is cultivated.

Even if you prefer coffee as your hot beverage of choice, the Charleston Tea Plantation is still among the top points of interest in the city.

Located a short distance south from the city proper, Charleston Tea Plantation is a sight to behold.

You’ll also want to keep your ears open, as there are lots of cool details to take in about how the tea is produced.

What was once a potato farm has become one of the premier tea producers in the world.

You can have one of your best experiences in Charleston at the Charleston Tea Plantation.

Its operating hours are from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m to 4 p.m.

The factory tours are free while the trolley tours are paid experiences.

During the week, you can go with a group on the more expensive and more informative Bill Hall Exclusive Tour.

Address:  6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, United States

12. French Quarter Inn

French Quarter Inn

If you’ve been in serious need of a vacation and want to be pampered to your heart’s content, then staying at the French Quarter Inn in Charleston is what to do.

Charleston is one of the best vacation spots in the south for its amazing hotels alone.

You can have a lot of fun here and gain a great deal of appreciation towards how much the staff puts into giving guests a wonderful time.

At this downtown Charleston hotel, you can feel like you’re in a modern-day fairytale.

This is a hotel to stay at if you seek a more personal experience.

It’s not a very big hotel, so you should secure your room as early as you can.

Among the great amenities are bicycles that you’re allowed to take out and multiple varieties of pillows for your relaxation needs.

The French Quarter Inn has become one of the top places to lodge in Charleston.

It’s so great, you might have trouble pulling yourself away from your room or the hotel grounds.

Hospitality is at its best when you’re boarding at the French Quarter Inn.

Address:  166 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

13. Charleston Music Hall

Edith Howle / flickr

One of the most impressive Charleston attractions for cultural engagement is Charleston Music Hall .

This is what to see in Charleston if you want to see some of the top musical acts today.

A beautiful and historic space, Charleston Music Hall is one of the best concert venues around Charleston.

Charleston Music Hall has been through a lot.

First established as part of the state railroad under the name “Tower Depot,” it evolved to be retail and office space before closing down upon the arrival of the Great Depression.

Revived as a music venue, it has hosted legendary acts like David Crosby, Ray Charles, and David Byrne.

Hearing the amazing story of Charleston Music Hall makes it even more heartwarming to know that it all turned out for the best.

Look at the venue’s schedule for this weekend.

Hopefully, you’ll be able to experience a great show at one of Charleston’s best venues.

Address:  37 John St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

14. Charleston Museum

Wally Gobetz / flickr

The historic importance of Charleston is monumental, and the Charleston Museum does a wonderful job of illustrating this.

If you’re looking to come to Charleston this weekend, going to the Charleston Museum is among the best activities.

Here, you can see great exhibits that different points of Charleston’s history.

The Charleston Museum is like a historian’s waking dream.

Permanent exhibits take you through Charleston’s history as well as places like Ancient Rome and Egypt.

Younger guests will be overjoyed by checking out the interactive delights of “Kidstory,” such as seeing what it’s like to operate a lighthouse.

One of the top museums in the south, the Charleston Museum is more than deserving of your patronage.

It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for youths, ages 13 to 17, and $5 for children, ages 3 to 12.

Address:  360 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

15. Hampden Clothing

Hampden Clothing

Top among Charleston attractions for the fashion-conscious is Hampden Clothing .

Going to this clothing outlet is lots of fun, both for people who love to shop and those who think it’s not their cup of tea.

At Hampden Clothing, you’ll be around so many great items to add to your wardrobe.

Hampden Clothing was founded by Stacy Smallwood, with a focus on giving women greater confidence through clothing.

There are remarkable pieces made by great designers, such as Ulla Johnson and Borgo de Nor.

You can find great clothes for all occasions here.

Few things can make you feel as cool as picking up a sharp new outfit.

Hampden Clothing is what to see if you desire to look and feel your best.

It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  314 King St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

16. Charleston Culinary Tours

Charleston Culinary Tours

If you’re coming to Charleston this weekend, you should be coming with a sizable appetite, as one of the most fun options for making your way around Charleston is by going on a Charleston Culinary Tours .

These dining trips let you see how great the food options are in Charleston.

With five to choose from, you can explore this city’s culinary diversity.

Tours tend to last a few hours, but you’ll likely be having so much fun, it can feel like the time is going by much faster.

You can take tours of downtown, King Street, or perhaps go on a “Sustainable Seafood” tour.

If you want to try some great drinks, there are brewery tours as well as a mixology tour.

Charleston Culinary Tours are of the most cool things to experience in this city.

As you go around the city, you’ll remember that eating is as much about pleasure as it is about necessity.

Be sure to book your spot on any of these tours right away.

17. Middleton Place

Adam Skonn / Shutterstock

Many great plantations are available for visiting in Charleston.

Middleton Place should be near the top of your list if you want to see multiple ones.

This is a gorgeous complex that showcases the unquestionable southern beauty of the city.

The original Middleton Place was largely torched near the Civil War’s conclusion, and the Great Earthquake caused further destruction.

What exists now is the Southern Flanker’s House Museum, which serves to educate on how people at Middleton Place lived, including slaves, astounding gardens, a great restaurant and shops, and more.

You’ll step out of the present and into the wonders of the past when you’re here.

Middleton Place is one of the most important places to see in Charleston for gaining historical awareness.

It operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $29 for adults, $15 for students, and $10 for children, ages six to 13.

Address:  4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

18. The Darling Oyster Bar

NaturalBox / Shutterstock

There’s nothing fishy about wanting to go the Darling Oyster Bar .

This is one of the top things to see for seafood lovers.

Situated on Kings Street, the Darling Oyster Bar provides your tastebuds with so many great flavors from so many great species.

The Darling Oyster Bar has become one of the top seafood restaurants today because of how dynamic the menu is.

When you eating at the Darling Oyster Bar, you’re refueling your body and treating your mind by giving it access to so much goodness.

If you’re ever near Kings Street and get a seafood craving going, make sure to make your way to the Darling Oyster Bar as soon as possible.

It’s open from Monday to Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  513 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

19. McCrady’s Restaurant

McCrady’s Restaurant

It can be pretty impressive when you go to a restaurant that’s 50-100 years old, but McCrady’s Restaurant is more than 200 years old.

It’s definitely earned its place in the American culinary pantheon, with a fantastic menu and terrific service.

One of the best things to see and do in Charleston is to take in a meal at McCrady’s Restaurant.

Situated on Unity Alley in downtown Charleston, McCrady’s Restaurant doesn’t just skate by on a historic reputation.

It also has a very impressive menu, with some of the most delicious duck, mahi mahi, and scallops you’ve tried.

Lots of great wines and other drinks can be paired with your meal.

There are so many great historic things to see in this city, and McCrady’s Restaurant makes things even better by being a top-notch place to eat as well.

Your sightseeing downtown can culminate in getting a meal here.

McGrady’s Restaurant is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  155 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

20. Magnolia Cemetery

Vizual Studio / Shutterstock

A visit to Magnolia Cemetery is a very important experience if you want a window to the past.

This Charleston burial place pays homage to those have gone before us, many who lived more than a century ago.

It’s also a gorgeously-designed space, which helps to illustrate the mysterious beauty of death.

Magnolia Cemetery was first constructed in 1850 and lies close to the Cooper River.

Although it’s a very solemn space, the artistic decor brightens it up.

If you’re a Civil War buff, you should see the area where many Confederate soldiers were laid to rest.

Going to Magnolia Cemetery can be both a sightseeing experience as well as a poignant lesson on the preciousness of life.

It’s what to see for anyone who cares about uncovering knowledge about the past.

Magnolia Cemetery is open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address: 70 Cunnington Ave, Charleston, SC 29405, USA

Exploring other parts of South Carolina? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Beaufort, SC ?

21. The Dewberry

The Dewberry

Constructed in the 1960s, The Dewberry is a more recent but no less impressive example of a historic building in Charleston.

Another prestigious hotel, The Dewberry offers guest amenities that can make them feel so very cared for.

For fun and luxury, come to The Dewberry.

The rooms at The Dewberry are set up with comfort in mind.

Every room is furnished with your own bathrobe and slippers and beds fitted with lush Irish linens.

Rooms you can choose include Charleston Flats, One-Bedroom Suites, and Grand Kings.

Going to sleep at night and waking up in the morning are both great when you’re staying at The Dewberry.

If you want your Charleston experience to be one you always hold dear, you should book a room here.

Should you be looking to honeymoon in Charleston and want to find the right hotel, The Dewberry should definitely be in consideration.

Address:  334 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

22. Calhoun Mansion

SHoener / Shutterstock

Seeing historic residences like the Calhoun Mansion is one of the coolest parts of touring any city.

This is the biggest personal residence in all of Charleston.

With 35-rooms, Calhoun Mansion is a seriously impressive piece of Charleston history.

This mansion was first constructed in 1876 by the influential George Walton Williams.

Although it was once of the most cherished buildings in the south, it underwent serious decay.

However, a multi-million dollar restoration process was able to give it the dignity it deserved.

Exploring the halls and rooms of Calhoun Mansion is one of the greatest sources of entertainment in all of Charleston.

It’s open every day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $17 for scheduled tours, except for children age 11 and younger, who get in for free.

Address:  16 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

23. Upper King Design District

Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock

The Upper King Design District is one of the most fun neighborhoods in Charleston.

The attractions here are quite lovely, with many great shops and places to eat.

At night and in the daytime, the Upper King Design District offers visitors lots of plusses.

Businesses in this district are seriously posh.

A date night through the Upper King District lets you act like a celebrity for an evening.

You can witness thoughtful artwork at The Southern Gallery, get some food at The Macintosh, and end your evening with a drink at Palmetto Brewing Co.

If you’re ever in or near Charleston and want to find a place that rewards a cultured mindset, you should come to the Upper King Design District.

You can scoop up items that would be absolutely perfect for your home or for a loved one.

All the while, you can have lots of fun just exploring the grounds.

Address:  387 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

24. Croghan’s Jewel Box

Croghan’s Jewel Box

A fine piece of jewelry can take an outfit from great to stunning, and Croghan’s Jewel Box is the place to be for finding this finishing touch.

Located on King Street, this jewelry shop has been around for more than 100 years.

As you browse the various items, you’ll understand why it’s become such a hallowed part of Charleston.

Since being founded by William Joseph Croghan, Croghan’s Jewel Box has gotten bigger in both store size and legacy.

The items here are the real deal, both in terms of composition and how pleasing the aesthetics are.

You can collect things made of gold, diamond, and ruby.

Jewels are a go-to analogy for when something is beautiful and unique, and Croghan’s Jewel Box shows you why.

This is a marvelous store for marvelous people to find marvelous things.

Croghan’s Jewel Box is open from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  308 King St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

25. The Ordinary

The Ordinary

If there was ever a restaurant that could be accused of false modesty, it’s The Ordinary .

This is one of the best places to enjoy seafood in Charleston today.

Catch a table at The Ordinary and get ready to have a sublime meal.

When you come into The Ordinary, you should be impressed by the impossibly-high ceilings and its gorgeous oyster bar.

The menu is also broken down into cold dishes, such as pickled roe shrimp, and hot ones, such as Caribbean fish stew.

If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can order caviar service.

The Ordinary is one of the best places to visit at night in Charleston for a great meal.

You can have a lot of fun sampling all of the different items and perhaps trying seafood you’ve never had before.

This restaurant is open from Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Address:  544 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

26. Poe’s Tavern

Wilmington and Beaches CVB / flickr

You might not think of Edgar Allan Poe when you consider famous Charleston residents.

However, the legendary poet was once a poet living on Sullivan’s Island.

Today, the island honors his legacy with Poe’s Tavern , a great place to have a drink and a hearty bite to eat.

Poe’s Tavern has the kind of menu that might cause you to forget your diet momentarily.

Perhaps the biggest attraction are the Angus Chuck burgers, which tip the scales at half-a-pound.

Some items have playful Poe-inspired names such as “Annabel Lee” and “Pit & Pendulum.”

Other treats include fish tacos and quesadillas.

If you’re a fan of “The Raven” who’s craving some excellent food and drink, you should come to Poe’s Tavern.

Poe himself would hopefully feel touched that his name had been attributed to such a good restaurant.

Poe’s Tavern is open from Monday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Address:  2210 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482, United States

27. Drayton Hall

Karel Tatransky / Shutterstock

Another remarkable plantation to tour is Drayton Hall .

Situated in Charleston’s “Low Country,” Drayton Hall endured through wars to become one of the most monumental pieces of Charleston history.

There’s also the Palladian design of the house, a style that still holds up as a piece of architectural beauty.

Constructed in the first half of the 18th century, Drayton Hall counts itself as the lone survivor of plantation homes that made it through the American Revolution as well as the American Civil War.

The home has been kept in very good condition, and the surrounding landscape has retained its lushness.

Tours cover all sorts of important parts of history, from wartime to the African American experience.

Drayton Hall has unquestionably earned its status as a National Historic Landmark.

It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Admission is $32 for adults and $15 for youths, ages eight to 14.

Address:  3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

28. John’s Island

Serge Skiba / Shutterstock

John’s Island is a more rustic island, but it’s still a very beautiful part of the Charleston area.

The state’s biggest island, as well as one of the five biggest ones on the entire east coast, going to John’s Island can be like having a vacation getaway inside your vacation getaway.

If there’s one particular thing that you have to see at John’s Island, it’s Angel Oak.

This tree is centuries old and has withstood all sorts of natural disasters.

Although one hurricane in the 1980s caused some harm, Angel Oak has been able to persist.

John’s Island can be seen as an all-important finishing touch that makes Charleston complete.

You might come for Angel Oak but you may also stay far longer based on how splendorous it all is.

This is a slice of paradise that keeps on giving.

29. The Spectator Hotel

The Spectator Hotel

The hotel industry in this city can feel like its primary focus is to show just how many great accommodations one city can have.

The Spectator Hotel could be very well called “The Spectacular Hotel,” as that’s exactly how it makes guests feel.

If you want to feel total bliss at a temporary residence, stay at The Spectator Hotel.

Have you ever fantasized about having a butler?

The Spectator Hotel provides you with one.

The old-timey feel is felt further when you step into the bar, which might be better called a “speakeasy,” given how well it recalls Prohibition-era drinking establishments.

The Spectator Hotel provides you with fun and pleasure in maximum dosages.

It shows how classiness is a trait that never goes out of style.

The only drawback to staying at The Spectator is having to get back to your comparatively-less glamorous everyday life.

Address:  67 State St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

30. The Schooner Pride

Schooner Pride

There’s too much water around you to not go out on at least one boat outing.

The Schooner Pride is a magnificent sailing vessel that can fit many people.

You’ll see just how important Charleston’s sailing legacy is when you embark on a voyage on The Schooner Pride.

A maximum of 49 people at a time can board The Schooner Pride, which starts proudly at 84-feet tall.

With its many masts, it looks like a sailboat you might’ve seen in dreams or storybooks.

For two hours, you can put other concerns aside and just embrace the ebb and flow of the water.

Any moment can be made even more special by being in the right setting.

The Schooner Pride brings out the magic in your South Carolina vacation all the more.

Prices for sails on the Schooner Pride vary based on experience.

Address:  360 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Charleston

Charleston’s not just a fun southern city.

It’s one of the most historically important cities in the entire country.

It is full of beautiful natural attractions, high-society living arrangements, and tons of awesome food.

If you want to see just how excellent South Carolina is, spend some time in its capital.

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28 Best Things to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

Planning a trip to the Holy City? Here are 28 of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Planning Your Perfect Charleston Itinerary

Can’t-miss attractions, top things to do in charleston for history lovers, for foodies, for families with kids, for couples.

• For Groups of Friends

Consistently ranked among the best cities in the United States by Travel + Leisure readers, Charleston is a vacation treasure trove, with an incredible food scene made up of old-school favorites and inventive newcomers, a prime location surrounded by water and near beautiful beaches, and plenty to see and do. As a South Carolinian who lived in Charleston for several years, I've seen and done it all in this Lowcountry destination, but in order to round up the best things to do in Charleston, I also tapped local experts from a few of my favorite hotels, including David Hood, head butler at The Spectator Hotel, and Jason Horbal and Mike Wilson from the HarbourView Inn.

"For history lovers, the historic downtown has much to see and do. Between the walking tours, historic homes, and museums, there is plenty to see that will keep you busy for days. For others, outside of downtown, there are beaches, yachting, fishing, golf, shopping and so much more. Charleston also offers some of the best cuisine in the South," says Wilson, front office manager at HarbourView Inn.

With something for every type of traveler, here are 28 of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you’re short on time with just a day or two to explore Charleston, there are a few must-see spots to check out. Thankfully, several of the city’s top attractions — including King Street, the Battery, Rainbow Row, and Charleston City Market — are all located within walking distance of each other and can easily be seen in one day. If you’re spending several days in the Holy City, I recommend visiting those can’t-miss sights before diving deeper into Charleston history and culture with a museum visit or tour (more on our top picks below). And if you have time, rent a car and explore the surrounding areas; you can lounge on the beach at Sullivan’s Island, go golfing on a renowned Kiawah Island course, or search for shark teeth on Morris Island. 

Stroll along Waterfront Park and the Battery.

Start in Joe Riley Waterfront Park, where you'll see the iconic Pineapple Fountain, and walk down along the water before strolling over to Rainbow Row, made up of several candy-colored Georgian-style row homes. Continue down East Bay until it becomes East Battery, another scenic street with views of the harbor and historic houses.

"Charleston has a very European city feel to it, balancing small-town intimacy with cosmopolitan amenities and offerings (probably part of the reason why Charleston, South Carolina and Spoleto, Italy have been "sister cities" for nearly 50 years). I enjoy strolling around the downtown peninsula, in the heart of the historic district, where travelers can experience a variety of dining, history, art, culture, and more, all on foot," says David Hood, head butler at The Spectator Hotel.

Related:   Charleston Travel Guide

Walk down King Street.

A visit to Charleston is incomplete without a stroll down the main drag, King Street. On Lower King, find antique shops packed with all sorts of vintage wares; Middle King features a mix of locally owned shops and high-end boutiques; and Upper King is home to some of the city's best nightlife and dining.

Take a ghost tour.

Get acquainted with the spooky side of the city and learn about some of its eternal residents on a ghost tour. Bulldog Tours has options ranging from a visit to the haunted (and historic) old jail to a paranormal investigation of the USS Yorktown .

Pick up a sweetgrass basket.

There are few souvenirs as iconic as a Charleston sweetgrass basket. Created by Gullah artisans with designs ranging from functional to intricate, you can find these baskets, woven from local marsh grass, throughout the city (with many sellers in the Charleston City Market ).

Visit the International African American Museum.

After more than two decades of planning, the International African American Museum (IAAM) opened its doors on June 27, 2023 at Gadsden's Wharf, one of the nation’s most prolific former slave trading ports. The landmark project aims to showcase the breadth of African American history through nine core exhibition galleries, a special exhibition gallery, and contemporary art throughout the space. In addition to more than 700 artifacts from the 17th century to the present day, the building also houses the Center for Family History, a genealogy and ancestry resource center. On the ground level, the African Ancestors Memorial Garden will spotlight the shoreline where hundreds of thousands of enslaved Africans first set foot in America, creating a new space for reflection, programming, and learning opportunities for all.

Learn about U.S. history on the USS Yorktown.

While the historic city is perhaps better known for its significance during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, you can learn about World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum , where you'll find the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, a destroyer, and a submarine, along with other educational exhibits.

Explore Fort Moultrie and Fort Sumter.

The two forts that make up the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park tell the story of Charleston's role in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Fort Moultrie, located on Sullivan's Island, was in use from 1776 to 1947, while Fort Sumter, found on an island in Charleston Harbor that's only accessible by boat, was the site of the start of the Civil War.

Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum.

In a city known for its former plantations and antebellum homes, it's important to recognize the true human history. The Old Slave Mart Museum is located inside a building that was used as an auction gallery where enslaved people were sold. Here, you can learn more about the history of slavery in Charleston.

See the Angel Oak.

Considered the largest Southern live oak tree east of the Mississippi River, the Angel Oak on Johns Island is one of South Carolina’s treasures. The tree is estimated to be at least 400 years old, which is evident given its sprawling branches that shade an area of over 17,000 square feet. A new 44-acre preserve featuring boardwalk trails, a play area for children, and educational information about the tree is underway, so visitors will have even more to look forward to in the future.

Learn about Gullah history and culture.

The Gullah are African American people from the Lowcountry regions of South Carolina and neighboring states, and their history and culture (and language, also called Gullah) are important parts of the Charleston story. Join Gullah Tours to learn more about Black history in the city, stopping at significant places like Denmark Vesey's home, quarters where enslaved people once lived, and more.

Start your day with biscuits.

Start your day with a warm, indulgent biscuit. Choose from nationally acclaimed Callie's Hot Little Biscuit (which has two outposts downtown) or head across the river to Mount Pleasant for Vicious Biscuit , a personal favorite. At the latter, I order The Vicious, a cheddar and jalapeño biscuit stuffed with fried chicken, their signature maple sausage gravy, house cowboy candy, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Shop local at the farmers market on Saturdays.

Saturday mornings are best spent in the heart of downtown Charleston at the farmers market on Marion Square. Find local produce, artisan crafts, and snacks to enjoy while you browse.

Eat your way around the city's best restaurants.

"Charleston’s robust culinary scene has inspired visitors to experience a few of the city’s most popular dining hot spots that have made best restaurant lists time and time again, and for good reason," says Jason Horbal, assistant general manager at HarbourView Inn . Charleston has long been known as a foodie destination, with a mix of newcomers and established favorites. My top recommendations include Wild Common for the incredible tasting menu, Fig for elevated Southern dishes, Hank's Seafood Restaurant for tasty seafood, and Halls Chophouse for steaks followed by bread pudding. That said, Horbal also encourages visitors to ask locals (including the knowledgeable staff at your hotel) for any under-the-radar favorites. "My favorite thing to do in Charleston is discover the lesser-known, hidden gems of restaurants that tend to fly under the radar," says Horbal.

And order these classic Charleston dishes.

On your culinary tour of the city, there are a few local dishes that visitors must try (and they're featured on the menus of many restaurants). Try fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and hush puppies (delightful balls of deep-fried dough, often served as a starter or a side), all washed down with a glass of sweet tea.

Sip some local brews.

Local breweries abound in Charleston, so try one (or a few) of the beers from the likes of Edmund's Oast Brewing Co. , Holy City Brewing , and Westbrook Brewing , or head to the Firefly Distillery , known for their fan-favorite sweet tea vodka and fruit-flavored moonshine.

See the local marine life at the South Carolina Aquarium.

This waterfront aquarium is home to more than 5,000 animals and the Sea Turtle Care Center, which aids sick or injured turtles. The AZA-accredited aquarium highlights the marine life found throughout South Carolina, from the mountains to the coast.

Cheer on the Charleston RiverDogs.

Charleston is home to a Minor League Baseball team — the RiverDogs — so those looking for a sporty outing can snag tickets to cheer them on. (Fun fact: Actor Bill Murray is a part-owner of the team.)

Visit Charles Towne Landing.

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site , located in West Ashley, is home to the site of the first European settlement founded in South Carolina (in 1670). Here, you can explore the gardens, visit the original settlement area, and even see animals that lived in the area when it was settled. "It has a perfect mix of history and scenery, and you can really get a sense of what Charleston and the Lowcountry are all about with its self-guided history trail, bike rentals, strolling through the alley of live oaks, and visiting its 12-room exhibit hall," says Hood.

Watch eagles, falcons, and owls take flight.

The Center for Birds of Prey at the Avian Conservation Center offers visitors an opportunity to learn about birds of prey in a beautiful setting. Situated on a 152-acre campus just north of Charleston, the center includes a medical clinic for injured birds and a facility for research, conservation, and educational programs. The center offers tours and flight demonstrations every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, allowing visitors to observe the flight techniques and hunting styles of eagles, hawks, owls, falcons, and vultures.

Search for shark teeth on Morris Island.

Only accessible by boat, Morris Island is an 840-acre uninhabited island in Charleston Harbor. Used as a strategic location during the American Civil War, the island has a rich history, but few physical traces of its battleground past remain. Instead, you’ll find a secluded beach studded with shells, fossils, and shark teeth. Tour operators like Adventure Harbour Tours offer guided excursions that focus on searching for beach treasures and learning about the island’s ecology – and you may even spot some dolphins along the way.

Take a sunset cruise.

Getting out on the water — river, harbor, creek, or ocean — is a must when you visit Charleston. One way to take advantage of the waterfront location is a sunset cruise through the harbor aboard a catamaran or tall ship .

Admire art from near and far.

Head to the Gibbes Museum of Art to see works ranging from 18th-century paintings and decorative arts to contemporary pieces from local artists. After that, you can visit some of the many galleries throughout the city — perhaps you'll even find a piece to take home as a souvenir. I recommend art lovers time their visit to the yearly Spoleto Festival, which welcomes artists from around the globe for a 2+ week performing arts extravaganza.

Stroll the Shem Creek Boardwalk.

Shem Creek, located in Mount Pleasant, is home to several waterfront seafood restaurants, and you can walk along its boardwalk to take in views of the water, marsh, and boats (and breathe in that fresh, salty air).

Lounge on the beach.

Downtown Charleston is just a short drive from the area's three popular beaches: Folly Beach, Isle of Palms Beach, and Sullivan's Island Beach. Each has soft, white sand and a distinct feel: Folly has lively bars and restaurants just steps from the shores, Sullivan's Island — my personal favorite — is more residential, and Isle of Palms is somewhere in between, with easy public access via Isle of Palms County Park.

Related: The 13 Best Beaches in South Carolina

For Groups of Friends 

Hit the links at acclaimed golf courses..

Thanks to the South Carolina Lowcountry's comfortable weather and fantastic courses (many offer beautiful views of the marsh and water), you can golf year-round in and near Charleston. One of the area's most famous courses is the stunning Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort.

Paddle around on a kayak tour.

Take a kayak tour through the marshes and creeks around Charleston to get close to the area's incredible marine and wildlife. Charleston Outdoor Adventures is one of several tour operators in the area — just don't forget your sunscreen.

Walk the Ravenel Bridge.

Charleston's famous bridge connecting Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, has a path for pedestrians. You can walk across its entirety — or just a section — for sweeping views of the harbor (if you're not afraid of heights).

Hop around the rooftop bars.

Get a new perspective on the Holy City — and see the many church steeples that give it that nickname — with a visit to one (or a few) of the rooftop bars around Charleston. Options include Fiat Lux at the Hotel Bennett (my favorite), Citrus Club at The Dewberry, Pavilion Bar at the Market Pavilion Hotel, The Rooftop at The Vendue, and Élevé at the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston.

Related: 15 Best Hotels in Charleston

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Charleston, SC   Travel Guide

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27 Best Things To Do in Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina, abounds with museums, restaurants, beaches and boating excursions. This living port city with a deep and complicated past presents endless opportunities for combining fun and frolic with educational – even sobering –

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
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The Battery The Battery free

Many travelers say you can't leave Charleston without strolling this historic seawall along the city's southern tip, which they call both beautiful and what makes Charleston special. Across the street from the waterfront promenade is Rainbow Row . This clutch of Georgian-style row houses overlooking Charleston Harbor was formerly the heart and soul of the city's merchant and maritime activity. Today, the 13 brightly colored homes attract camera-toting tourists from all over the country.

As you explore this picturesque neighborhood, save time for a break beneath the old live oaks in nearby White Point Garden where several Civil War relics and memorials commemorate the city's role in the battle. Start your tour of the Battery at the 8-acre Waterfront Park (home to the giant pineapple fountain featured on many Charleston postcards), then follow the walking paths on East Battery Street for the nearly mile-long stroll to White Point Garden.

Charleston Walking Tours Charleston Walking Tours

With its centuries-old mansions and cobblestone streets, Charleston is a living museum. One of the best ways to learn about its history (and its ghosts) and the significance of its best-known landmarks is on a walking tour. There are a variety of options available, ranging from broad tours of the city's historic downtown district to more niche tours that explore the city's  paranormal presence , pirates and art galleries.

Recent visitors praised operators like  Charleston Footprints ,  Walks of Charleston  and  Two Sisters Historic Walking Tours . To see a more complete directory of available walking tours, check out our list of the Best Charleston Walking Tours .

Waterfront Park Waterfront Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After visiting Waterfront Park, cross East Bay Street to the corner of Broad Street for a late lunch or glass of wine at Brasserie La Banque , an elegant French restaurant inside a former bank dating to the 1700s. – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

Spanning over 8 acres and located less than a mile north of The Battery , Waterfront Park has become a beloved Charleston fixture since opening in May 1990. It is home to one of the city's most photographed sites: the pineapple fountain. In Charleston's scorching summer months, visitors (especially children) can be found cooling off in the shallow water of the fountain.

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Rainbow Row Rainbow Row free

One of Charleston's most iconic points of interest, Rainbow Row comprises more than a dozen brightly painted historic homes perched along The Battery 's East Bay Street, near Waterfront Park . Dating back to the mid-1700s, the structures hold an important place in Charleston's history. After the Civil War, the previously dilapidated area underwent a significant revitalization, starting with the homes of Rainbow Row. Initially, Susan Pringle Frost, founder of the Preservation Society of Charleston, bought six homes to restore. Though financially incapable of completing the project, she fostered the initiative to reinvigorate the area, an undertaking later accomplished by Dorothy Porcher Legge. In the 1930s, Dorothy and her husband, Judge Lionel Legge, bought a section of the houses and painted them pastel pink to attract people back to the area. Soon enough, other homeowners began painting their properties in bright colors as well, transforming the neighborhood into a premier locale as some of Charleston's most expensive real estate.

Today, these homes mostly serve as an ideal Instagram opportunity for Charleston vacationers. Many recent travelers say a trip to the quaint South Carolina city would be incomplete without a visit to Rainbow Row, but others felt underwhelmed by a visit and wondered what all the hype was about. To add value to your time here, some recommend walking by at sunset to enjoy views along the water after or stopping for a drink in one of Charleston's oldest bars: the Tavern at Rainbow Row which dates to 1686. If you choose to explore by foot, you can head to the area on your own or sign up for a Charleston walking tour that includes a stop at these colorful structures. The homes are also easy to spot by car, if you'd prefer to drive by for a quick peek.

Charleston Boat Tours Charleston Boat Tours

To get a better view of the Charleston harbor (and maybe even spot some dolphins), consider signing up for a boat tour. Not only will you enjoy some time on the water, you'll also have the chance to learn more about the city's maritime history (many boat captains provide historical commentary throughout their tours). Along the way, you'll likely see some of Charleston's top landmarks, including The Battery , Waterfront Park , the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and  Fort Sumter .

There are a variety of tours and operators in Charleston that offer a bevy of experiences for all types of travelers. Adventure Harbor Tours receives high praise from previous visitors for its Morris Island tours and sunset cruises. If you're looking for a narrated experience, sign up for a Charleston Harbor Tour : its daily harbor tours pass more than 75 sights while the captain shares stories and facts about the area. For an intimate experience, Boatsetter , a mobile app for on-demand boat rentals, lets you book a slew of options whether skippered or bareboat sailboats, fishing boats or catamarans.

Charleston City Market Charleston City Market free

While some may say that the Charleston City Market is a bit of a tourist trap, others call it a great glimpse into life in the Old South. It has been a shopping hub since the 1800s and is one of the country's oldest city markets. The market buzzes with residents and visitors alike, perusing stalls loaded with toys, clothes, art, leather goods and regional souvenirs. There are plenty of locally made products for sale at the market, which you can distinguish by a "Certified Authentic: Handmade in Charleston" tile displayed on vendor stations.

Visitors to the market will also observe a noticeable African American influence reflected through the different food and product vendors. Past visitors recommend heading straight to the "basket ladies." These Gullah artisans have been weaving baskets for centuries – this craft originated in West Africa and has been passed down through the generations – using local materials, such as sweetgrass and palmetto leaves.

Angel Oak Angel Oak free

Visitors will find one of Charleston's most photographed icons on Johns Island: the Angel Oak. It is said to be the largest live oak east of the Mississippi. The gorgeous tree is 65 feet high, with a circumference of 25.5 feet. It's estimated that the tree shades an area of nearly 20,000 square feet and is between 300 and 400 years old. Visitors in the hundreds of thousands flock to the tree to pose next to its long limbs.

Recent visitors said the tree is worth a quick stop to take a photo of the magnificent natural wonder. Others warned that there are lots of rules to be observed and noted that you'll want to make sure to keep a sharp eye on your kids, who will naturally be tempted to climb the tree.

Sullivan's Island Sullivan's Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If food is a priority, Sullivan's Island offers the widest and best assortment of restaurants of Charleston's three main beaches. For Caribbean vibes, try The Longboard ; for local seafood, catch Sullivan's Fish Camp ; and for wine slushies and kid-friendly bites, stop by Co-Op Frosé and Eatery . – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

Comprising only 3.3 square miles, Sullivan's Island may not seem like a must-see for Charleston visitors. But this beachfront town proves that good things come in small packages. Sitting at the mouth of the Charleston harbor – a little less than 10 miles east of the downtown area – Sullivan's Island boasts beaches, tasty restaurants and unique shops. Many visitors say the beach is ideal for families. You'll also find a bevy of vacation rental properties here – a worthy alternative if you want a little more seclusion than some of downtown Charleston's hotels and bed-and-breakfasts can provide.

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Isle of Palms County Park Isle of Palms County Park free

If several days in Charleston proper have you longing for a do-nothing day at the beach, Isle of Palms might be just the ticket. Located just 16 miles east of the city, visitors will find about 7 miles of shoreline, ideal for swimming, sailing, windsurfing or sunbathing. If you're having trouble deciding between Charleston's two closest shorelines (don't forget about Folly Beach ), your fellow beach bums might help you decide: Isle of Palms is known to attract more families than Folly Beach.

Recent beachgoers praised the wide, clean beach and said it's a beautiful place to relax. Isle of Palms also boasts a few more beachfront vacation rentals, plus the sprawling Wild Dunes Resort . What's more, you don't have to be a guest to enjoy the two Tom Fazio-designed golf courses at Wild Dunes: both courses are open to the public. However, keep in mind Isle of Palms doesn't offer as many bars or restaurants compared to Folly Beach.

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

While Middleton Place 's gardens attract visitors who appreciate manicured order, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens appeals to lovers of wilder spaces and romantic-style gardens. Visitors come to enjoy camellia and azalea season in early spring and wildlife throughout the year. Observe the gators, herons and turtles in the Audubon Swamp Garden, look for local birds at the waterfowl refuge, don your helmet and bike one of the several trails, or stroll the Ashley river path shaded by graceful live oak trees. The house is worth an hour of your time to see its interior. Recent travelers agreed that the Wildlife Center and nature center make this a great place to bring the kids.

Despite its aesthetic appeal, the plantation has a deep-rooted history in slavery. It was once home to many enslaved families, who resided in the property's four cabins from 1850 until the late 20th century. The cabins have been preserved, and each illustrates a significant period in history. The plantation offers a 45-minute "From Slavery to Freedom" tour where travelers can visit the cabins and learn more about the people who were forced to live and work on the property. Recent visitors said the tour guides were well-versed and knowledgeable about African American history. Plus, the tour is included in the cost of a general admission ticket.

Charleston Food Tours Charleston Food Tours

Considered one of the best foodie cities in the USA , Charleston is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and bevy of trendy restaurants. For a crash course in the city's best eats, consider spending a few hours on a Charleston food tour. Popular tour companies include Undiscovered Charleston , Bulldog Tours , Secret Food Tours Charleston and Charleston Culinary Tours .

Past visitors raved about the city's food tours and noted that most of the guides were friendly and knowledgeable. According to reviewers, this is a great activity if you're interested in the Holy City's food scene as well as its history. Just make sure you go hungry – Lowcountry cuisine can be quite heavy, and a few travelers have made the mistake of eating before their tour and walked away stuffed.

Folly Beach Folly Beach free

After a few days exploring Charleston's historic sites, take some time to kick back, relax and enjoy the Southern sun. Overlooking the Atlantic – less than 15 miles south of downtown Charleston – this 6-mile stretch of coastline makes for a great daytrip away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Come here for the nature and the surfing, or head to the pier to sit and fish. Folly Beach's friendly atmosphere attracts a variety of travelers: most of the families stick to the shore, while adults traveling sans kids tend to congregate in the many bars nearby. If you're hoping to lay claim to some fine beach real estate, you better get here early: Past visitors said the beach can get crowded as the afternoon progresses, though crowds diminish the further you go from Center Street. If you didn't bring your own beach chair, you can rent one near the beach, along with umbrellas and nonmotorized water sports equipment.

Along with the casual beachfront bars and eateries, you'll also find a few hotels near the shore, as well as restrooms and foot showers for cleaning off sandy toes. Away from the beach sit several casual eateries, including traveler favorites like Taco Boy and Lost Dog Cafe. Surfers and locals hit Chico Feo for beer and tacos or Lowlife for tasty cocktails and shrimp rolls seasoned with Old Bay. Recent visitors described the sand as clean, and said it's a great place to bring kids and dogs (dog hours vary).

Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens holds festivals throughout the year. Check its calendar for events like the Lowcountry Oyster Festival in January, the Lowcountry Strawberry Festival in March and April, the Christmas Tree Festival in November and Wine Under the Oaks in December. – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

Founded in 1681, Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens is one of six plantations in the Charleston area. Considerably larger than Magnolia Plantation & Gardens , this 738-acre property is best known for its Avenue of the Oaks: a lengthy corridor of 1700s-era live oak trees that form a picturesque canopy over the path leading up to the historic mansion. If the grounds look familiar, it's probably because they've been featured in several films and TV shows, including "The Notebook" and the long-running soap opera "Days of our Lives."

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Middleton Place Middleton Place

U.S. News Insider Tip: Historically, Charleston's famous azaleas blossom between late March and early April. However, with shorter, warmer winters, flowers peak earlier in spring. If you time your trip right, Middleton Place offers the most glorious spectacle of synchronous blooms, notably along the "azalea hillside," a bank rising from the rice mill pond that was planted almost a century ago with around 35,000 bushes. – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

If there were ever a place to stop and smell the roses, this house would be it. Built in 1755, this mansion was once the home of Arthur Middleton, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Today, Middleton Place houses an impressive collection of historic furniture and portraits (all originally owned by the Middleton family), plus a stable with heritage-bred animals. The gardens are a highlight of Middleton Place, according to visitors. Modeled after traditional English and European gardens, the 65-acre grounds are peppered with camellias, azaleas, magnolias and myrtle throughout the year. The property also boasts a full-service restaurant serving seasonal Lowcountry fare for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. But aside from its photogenic landscaping, Middleton Place also serves as a sobering reminder of Charleston's connection to slavery.

White Point Garden White Point Garden free

White Point Garden, also known as White Point Park, is a nearly 6-acre historic public park located at the tip of the Charleston Peninsula overlooking Charleston Harbor and Cooper River. The park entrances visitors with its beautiful water views, graceful live oak trees, and historic monuments. The park dates to 1837 when the land was acquired by the City of Charleston. Originally, the park was used as a fortification during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and several cannons from both eras remain o-site as a reminder of the city's military past. The park was also used as a public garden during the 19th century and was the site of many social events and gatherings. Today, White Point Garden attracts both locals and tourists to its historic monuments and markers, shaded benches and its gazebo, which hosts weddings and other events.

Recent visitors welcomed the park as a respite from the sun on a hot summer day, while others felt bewitched by the setting after dusk. Many felt White Point Park provided a focal point for their walking tours downtown and a good place to rest or have a picnic after walking all afternoon.

The Aiken-Rhett House Museum The Aiken-Rhett House Museum

According to many, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum is a unique and educational place to learn about life in Charleston during the 19th century. Originally built in the early 1800s and then expanded by Gov. William Aiken Jr. and his wife in the 1830s and 1850s, much of the house's original style has been preserved.

Before touring the house, spend some time exploring the grounds, which host the stables, the kitchens and the slave quarters. The slave quarters, which feature original paint and flooring, have remained untouched over time and serve to illustrate the harsh living conditions for at least 14 of the property's enslaved workers. Past visitors appreciated seeing the quarters first, so they could better understand how the house operated.

Drayton Hall Drayton Hall

Dating back to 1738, Drayton Hall is one of the oldest surviving plantation houses left in the South and remains an exquisite example of Palladian architecture. In fact, Drayton Hall was America's first and best example of the style. Wander the red-brick main house, noting details like decorative windows and doors added for symmetry.  The house hasn't changed much from when it was originally built, including a lack of air conditioning, electricity and heat. After watching the orientation video, guests can opt for a 45-minute audio tour – at no additional cost – that helps explain the role enslaved people played on the plantation. Past visitors said the stories they heard on the audio tour, as well as the information from the knowledgeable staff members, helped paint a picture of the day-to-day realities enslaved workers faced on the plantation.

After touring, you can wander along the walking trails that follow the Ashley River and the marsh, or pay your respects at the on-site African American Cemetery. Archaeological artifacts and objects from the Drayton family are also on display in the on-site Gates Gallery.

McLeod Plantation Historic Site McLeod Plantation Historic Site

At the McLeod Plantation Historic Site, visitors can learn important information about Gullah and Geechee heritage. This plantation was established in 1851, and by 1860, it was home to 74 enslaved people housed in 23 cabins. It operated mainly as a cotton plantation until the last crop was planted in 1922. The property has been restored to reflect its original form, and visitors can tour the McLeod family home as well as the slaves' living quarters. They will also learn about the relationships between those who lived on the plantation and the property's importance in the Civil War. The plantation stretches for 37 acres and features a dairy and kitchen area, a worship center, a cemetery, a cotton gin house, a riverside outdoor pavilion and a tree known as the McLeod Oak, which is believed to be more than 600 years old.

Past visitors praised McLeod Plantation for its accuracy in conveying the true history of enslaved people in the South. Reviewers appreciated that the tour guides didn't shy away from the grim realities of slavery nor try to cover up the difficult details; they also said the guides were open to answering their questions. Many went as far as to say McLeod is the most educational and precise plantation tour in the area.

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Heyward-Washington House Heyward-Washington House

Built in 1772, the Heyward-Washington House earned its moniker for two men who figured prominently in its history, Thomas Heyward Jr. and President George Washington. Heyward, a Revolutionary War officer and South Carolina delegate to the Continental Congress in 1776, is best known for contributing his signature to the Declaration of Independence. In 1791, the city of Charleston rented Heyward's home for President George Washington's weeklong stay in the city. The association with America's first president has persisted ever since. The architecture of the three-story red brick double reflects the Georgian style that spread widely through English colonies for its order and symmetry. The Charleston Museum acquired the property in 1929 and opened it to the public a year later as the city's first historic home museum. 

Recent travelers enjoyed the home's collection of antique Charleston-made furnishings and formal gardens, as well as the chance to see an original kitchen from the 1740s. The kitchen and carriage shed are relics from the Milner family who developed the lot before Heyward purchased it in 1770. Furniture buffs appreciated the 1770 Chippendale-style Holmes Bookcase, considered a stunning example of American craftsmanship.

Fort Sumter National Monument Fort Sumter National Monument free

You probably remember Fort Sumter as the place where the first shot of the Civil War was fired back in 1861. Today, you can see for yourself where all the action happened by taking a ferry to the actual fort. Take your time exploring the thick stone caverns, which still house several Civil War-era cannons. You should also stop by Fort Sumter's small, yet informative museum, which provides more in-depth information about the fort's role in the war. According to most Charleston visitors, Fort Sumter is a must-see, especially for kids and history buffs.

Fort Sumter National Monument is perched on a small island in Charleston Harbor several miles southwest of the city. Ferries to the monument depart from the Fort Sumter visitor center (in Charleston) and from Patriot's Point , which sits just opposite of the harbor in USS Yorktown State Park (parking is available at both departure points). Though the ferry ride is not the main attraction, most enjoyed it, calling it relaxing and a great way to see some of the area's dolphins. Both ferries to the fort and ranger talks take place daily, but hours vary depending on the season. Guided tours aren't available at Fort Sumter, but you can listen to a 10-minute, ranger-led history discussion before heading out on your own self-guided tour; rangers and volunteers are available to answer any questions you may have.

South Carolina Aquarium South Carolina Aquarium

Home to more than 5,000 animals, the South Carolina Aquarium is a fun attraction for those traveling with young children. The aquarium is located on the Charleston Harbor downtown and boasts views of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, meaning it must pass a rigorous animal welfare check annually. Therefore, visitors can rest assured that the aquarium's many residents – ranging from alligators to eels to otters – are treated with the utmost care. Keep in mind that the South Carolina Aquarium does not house any dolphins, whales or manatees in accordance with the Marine Resources Act of 2000, which bans facilities from placing marine mammals on display in South and North Carolina.

Although the aquarium is on the smaller side, recent travelers reported it was chock-full of interactive exhibits and interesting things to see and do. Most reported getting through the full attraction in about 60 to 90 minutes. Highlights for visitors include the Sea Turtle Care Center – where injured and sick turtles are rehabbed then released back into the wild – and the "touch" exhibit, where travelers can get up close and personal with select wildlife like hermit crabs and Atlantic stingrays.

The Charleston Museum The Charleston Museum

Founded in 1773, the Charleston Museum is said to be the country's first museum, and with a focus on the South Carolina Lowcountry, it's a perfect place to learn about the area. There's a gallery devoted to natural history, a Civil War exhibition, a historic textiles gallery, and the interactive "Kidstory" area. There's also the "Lowcountry History Hall" exhibit, which displays materials related to the Native Americans who inhabited the South Carolina coast prior to colonization, as well as the enslaved African Americans responsible for the region's agricultural wealth.

Recent visitors were impressed with the museum's historical overview and said it is definitely worth a few hours of your time (especially if you're visiting in the summer and need a place to cool off). Reviewers were particularly impressed with the artifacts on display from the Revolutionary and Civil wars.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Opened in 1976, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum serves to educate visitors on war history. The USS Yorktown aircraft carrier – which was used by the United States Navy in World War II, then again in the Vietnam War – sits in the harbor as the attraction's centerpiece. Other notable artifacts and exhibits at this Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, museum include two historic ships, a Medal of Honor Museum, 28 aircraft and a 2.5-acre "Vietnam Experience," which recreates a Navy base complete with a mess hall, a fire control bunker and a river patrol boat to simulate what it was like for soldiers during the Vietnam War.

Recent travelers said visiting Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum was both educational and fun. They said American history buffs will love seeing the warships, submarines and aircraft, and many highly recommended taking the captain's tour aboard the USS Yorktown for a more in-depth experience. Almost all visitors agreed the attraction was worth the cost of admission. 

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The Nathaniel Russell House Museum The Nathaniel Russell House Museum

Constructed at the turn of the 19th century by Nathaniel Russell – a wealthy Southern merchant – this historic home is known for its spiraling staircase, detailed furnishings and landscaped gardens. In fact, The Nathaniel Russell House has the only 3-story, free-flying cantilever staircase on the Charleston Peninsula. Unlike the Aiken-Rhett House , parts of the Nathaniel Russell House Museum has undergone architectural and interior restoration. Recent visitors were impressed with the detailed restoration and said the house helped them gain insight into the daily proceedings of Russell and his family. The family brought nearly 20 enslaved men and women with them to the property, and the house was constructed at the hands of the enslaved people. The kitchen area and slave quarters are in the process of being restored, so visitors can eventually get a better understanding of the house's enslaved men and women. Travelers are welcome to walk over to the site during restoration.

Previous visitors said they learned a lot thanks to the self-guided audio tours, which are available via smartphone app. They also complimented the knowledgeable staff members who were on hand to bring the house's history to life.

Edmondston-Alston House Edmondston-Alston House

Fans of Charleston's 19th historical homes will enjoy visiting the Edmonston-Alston House. Located in a favored spot on the High Battery , it's one of the sea wall's oldest residences dating to 1825. Built in late Federal style by Charles Edmondston, the home changed hands a mere decade later when the Scottish shipping merchant suffered financial woes. Charles Alston, a wealthy Lowcountry rice planter, acquired the home and updated its architecture in Greek Revival style. Today, the well-preserved property remains in the Alston family. Visitors can see this blend of design styles in the home's public rooms and outdoor piazzas, as well as the extensive collection of period pieces from furniture and mirrors to portraits and Alston family silver. Integral to the story of the home and the fortunes of the Alstons is the story of the enslaved people who lived and labored in the home. You'll learn more about these men and women during the tour. 

Previous visitors said the Edmondston-Alston House was a highlight of their trip for its architectural details, waterfront location, and knowledgeable docents who shared insights into 19th-century life for both the families and enslaved in Charleston. Some travelers felt it expensive, however, for the handful of rooms they could visit, as the family occupies the top floor.

Spoleto Festival USA Spoleto Festival USA

U.S. News Insider Tip: If your interests fall closer to the culinary arts than the performing arts, book a trip for the Charleston Wine & Food in early March. The festival packs dinners, seminars, workshops, brunches, street fairs and interactive experiences (like boat trips to working oyster farms) into five days. Local and international food, wine and cocktail talent host the events.  – Lauren Mowery, Contributor

Founded in 1977 by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Gian Carlo Menotti, Charleston's annual Spoleto Festival USA showcases music, theater, dance and opera performances. The festival draws its name from the city of Spoleto in Italy where Menotti previously founded an arts festival. This 17-day annual event (which runs from late May through early June) draws tens of thousands of visitors, both domestic and international, who come for the festival's unique blend of world-class performances and Southern charm.

H.L. Hunley Submarine H.L. Hunley Submarine

Originally built in 1863 for the Confederate Army, the H.L. Hunley became the world's first successful combat submarine. It was suddenly lost at sea in 1864 and remained so until 1995 when it was discovered off the coast of Sullivan's Island with the help of thriller author Clive Cussler. In 2000, the Hunley and the remains of its crew were brought to the surface for a detailed restoration at the old Charleston Naval Base.

Today, you can visit the base and tour the submarine; an experience that many recent visitors said is well worth your time, especially if you're interested in naval history. The experience features interactive exhibits and activities, which recent visitors found fascinating. Many also praised the expert guides. After a 20-minute overview, visitors can explore on their own.

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10 of the Most Unique Things to Do in Charleston, SC

The Holy City is famous for its world-class attractions, award-winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches, but you’ll also discover that the city has its fair share of hidden gems. Read on to discover 10 of the most unique things to do in Charleston, SC,  including a secluded beach and a haunted jail. Afterward, uncover more of the Lowcountry’s best-kept secrets in our  free Charleston Area Vacation Guide . Our guide is full of local recommendations for restaurants, breweries, events, shopping, and more.

 10 of the Most Unique Things to Do in Charleston, SC

1. paddleboard under a full moon.

Paddleboarding  is one of the best ways to explore Charleston’s waterways, and paddleboarding by moonlight is one of the best things to do in Charleston, SC, at night! Head over to  Bohicket Marina  and watch the sunset over the water. Then, paddle through the tranquil marshes under the moonlight.  Water Dog Paddle  is one of our favorite tour companies in the area. In addition to full moon paddle tours, they also offer sunset paddles and dolphin paddles!

2. Enjoy the Views at Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House

After your paddleboarding adventure on Bohicket Creek, head to the nearby  Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House . Here, you can enjoy beautiful views of Kiawah Island’s Osprey Point Golf Course. One of our favorite pastimes is sitting on the open veranda and watching the alligators make their way across the course! Craft beer, Southern-style barbecue, colorful salads, and signature sauces are all on the menu.

3. Walk or Run Across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

On any given day in Charleston, you’ll see people walking, jogging, and sprinting along the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Not only is it excellent exercise, but the views from the top are breathtaking.

Don’t miss the  Cooper River Bridge Run  in April! This world-class race draws athletes from all over the world.

4. Visit the Old Charleston City Jail

Charleston’s history is rich and fascinating. The founding of the Holy City dates back to the 1670s. There are so many historic tours that you can embark on during your visit, but if you are searching for a supernatural experience,  ghost tours  are a great option. There are rumors of ghost sightings in some of the city’s most haunted places, including the Old Charleston City Jail in downtown Charleston. For the full experience, we recommend the  Haunted Jail Tour  with Bulldog Tours. As you wander through the building, your guide will tell you the stories of the ghosts who haunt the historic jail to this day.

5. Attend an Oyster Roast

Locals and visitors alike look forward to Oyster Season in the Lowcountry, which peaks from November to February. If you are visiting Charleston in the wintertime, celebrate the season with steaming buckets of fresh shellfish, cold beverages, and live music! Oyster roasts are all about socializing with friends. So they are still fun to attend even if you aren’t a fan of seafood.

6. Catch Some Waves at the Washout

With fewer crowds and large, rolling waves, the Washout on Folly Beach is a surfer’s paradise. To get there, make a left off Center Street and drive down Ashley Avenue until you reach the end of the road. Once you park your car, you’ll follow a paved walking path all the way to the beach. This hidden gem also offers spectacular views of the Folly Lighthouse. Pack a lunch and make a day of it.  Paid parking on the street.

7. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding off into the sunset, now is your chance. The  Seabrook Island Equestrian Center is the only place that allows horseback riding  on the beach in Charleston. Walk, trot, and canter your way along the beautiful Carolina coast as gentle waves crash along the shore. It is one of the most romantic things to do in Charleston, SC!

8. Explore Miles of Scenic Trails

With cascading oak trees, pristine beaches, and protected habitats, Charleston’s sea islands are some of the most picturesque areas in the Lowcountry. Kiawah Island offers 10 miles of private beaches and 30 miles of paved trails to explore . Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride past the quiet marshes, through the maritime forests, or over the hard-packed shoreline. Don’t forget to bring your camera; there are several scenic photo backdrops and beautiful animals along the way.

9. See the Waring Historical Library

If history buffs are traveling with you, the  Waring Historical Library  should be at the top of your list of things to do. The building is dedicated to the history of health sciences. You’ll see a wide range of medical instruments, rare books, paraphernalia, and ancient artifacts throughout the exhibits. If you wish to tour the building, make a reservation before your arrival.

10. Visit the Charleston Tea Plantation

Have you been to America’s largest tea plantation?  Charleston Tea Plantation  is on the lovely and tranquil Wadmalaw Island. Take a tour of the facility and learn how tea is grown and made. Then, enjoy free samples while you wander about the plantation grounds. Remember to stop by the nearby Firefly Distillery for a sample of their famous Sweet Tea Vodka. You’ll also find Charleston’s only winery just a stone’s throw away!

So when you are compiling your visit itinerary from our list of the 10 most unique things to do in Charleston you might start thinking about the islands and finding a place of your own in Charleston, SC.

Discover Charleston’s Sea Islands

Kiawah Island  and  Seabrook Island  are two of Charleston’s best-kept secrets. On these islands, you’ll find miles of sandy beaches, endless waterways, and  maritime parks . Luxury homes and condos, equipped with the very best amenities, all only a short trip away from the most unique things to do in Charleston, SC!

If you are looking to buy a home on Kiawah or Seabrook contact Pam Harrington Exclusives for information on current listings.  We can’t wait to welcome you to Charleston’s most beloved sea islands!

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Top Things to Do

The 17 Best Things to Do in Charleston

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Frequently ranked as one of America's best places to visit, Charleston, South Carolina , is a top destination for its temperate climate, coastal locale, friendly charm, and wealth of activities for the whole family. From world-class dining and historic sites to museums, and shopping, the Holy City and the surrounding area offer plenty of things to do for a short weekend or an extended stay.

Whether you're planning your first visit to Charleston or a repeat visitor, here are the top 17 things to do in Charleston.

Take a Walking Tour of the Historic District

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Sure, you can explore popular historic district sites like Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row, and the Battery on your own. But why not take advantage of the city's free, two-hour guided walking tour to learn about Charleston's past and present from the pros? Tour options range from Civil War history to architectural landmarks to the always popular night-time ghost tour for supernatural enthusiasts.

Discover Lowcountry Cuisine

TripSavvy / Anna Haines 

Long known as a top destination for classic Southern favorites like shrimp and grits and regional Lowcountry specialties like Frogmore Stew, Charleston is a food lover's paradise . Eat dinner at the pioneering Husk , which merges fine dining with seasonal, regionally-sourced ingredients. Later, try Bertha's Kitchen or the family-run Hannibal's Kitchen for soul food like collard greens and fried chicken.

Attend Spoleto Festival USA

Charleston offers visitors a variety of annual festivals and special events, none more famous than Spoleto Festival USA. Running annually from Memorial Day weekend through early June, Spoleto hosts more than 150 performances ranging from jazz and dance to opera and theatre in churches, parks, performing halls, and other venues throughout the city. Its companion festival, Piccolo Spoleto , features free and low-cost offerings from local and regional artists.

Discover Charleston's Museum Mile

Charleston's Museum Mile runs along a one-mile section of Meeting Street, beginning at the Charleston Visitor Center downtown. This easily walkable route includes six museums like the Charleston Museum and The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry, plus historic homes, picturesque parks, and notable churches and buildings. Ticket packages can be purchased online or at the Charleston Visitor Center.

Walk Along the Historic Charleston Battery

No trip to the city is complete without a stroll along The Battery , located at the southern end of the Charleston peninsula where the Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet. Points of interest include Charleston's grandest historic homes, displays of Civil War artillery, the scenic White Point Gardens shaded by majestic live oak trees, and views of Charleston Harbor—perfect for packing a picnic and watching the sunset.

Explore the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

To learn about the city's role in naval history, explore Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. In the northern suburb of Mount Pleasant, Patriots Point is home to three former ships-turned-museums: the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, the destroyer USS Laffey, and a submarine, USS Clamagore. The complex also includes the Medal of Honor Museum, the Cold War Submarine Memorial, and the Vietnam Naval Support Base exhibit, the only one of its kind in the United States. ​

Visit the South Carolina Aquarium

Courtesy of South Carolina Aquarium

Located along the Charleston Harbor, the South Carolina Aquarium is home to more than ten thousand plants and animals like river otters, loggerhead sea turtles, horseshoe crabs, sharks, sea urchins, and ocean fish. Exhibits cover the state's habitats from the mountain forests of Appalachia to the coastal plain, and highlights include the Touch Tank—where visitors can feel hermit crabs and Atlantic stingrays—and the two-story, 385,000-gallon Ocean Tank, the largest in North America.

Buy Local Produce and Crafts at the Charleston Farmers Market

Consistently ranked one of the top farmers' markets in the country, the Charleston Farmer's Market takes place Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., April through November, at Marion Square in the historic district. The market includes more than one hundred vendors selling everything from fresh produce to cut flowers to artisan jewelry, plus frequent live music and food trucks dishing up breakfast sandwiches and Lowcountry boil. Don't miss the special Holiday Market on select Saturdays and Sundays in December.

Tour Historic Homes

From the Georgian-inspired Heyward-Washington House on Church Street to the stately 18 th -century Aiken-Rhett House Museum on Elizabeth Street, Charleston is full of elegant, well-preserved historic homes that retain original furnishings, wallpaper, and other decorative details. Many of them are open to the public year-round, while the Preservation Society of Charleston offers self-guided tours of additional homes and gardens each fall from late September through late October.

Stroll and Shop Historic King Street

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Once the city's main thoroughfare, historic King Street bisects the peninsula from north to south. Its colorful buildings house restaurants, bars, and shops; stores range from national retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue and Anthropologie to local purveyors like Croghan's Jewel Box, Robert Lange Studios art gallery, Blue Bicycle Books, and Hampden Clothing.

Sample Local Beer and Spirits

With more than 30 local breweries and distilleries, craft beer and spirits are a booming industry in Charleston. Visit taprooms like Charleston Distilling Co., Fatty's Beer Works, Highwire Distilling, and Holy City Brewing on your own. Or, book a four-and-a-half-hour tasting tour with Crafted Travel to sample beer and spirits at three different spots for $84.

Take a Boat Tour

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Some of the best views of this coastal city are from the water, so hop on board the Morris Island Boat Tour with Adventure Harbor Tours. The three-hour excursion includes sightings of some of Charleston's most notable landmarks, such as the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge, the Battery, Fort Sumter, and Waterfront Park. You'll also get to stop at nearby Morris Island, an undeveloped barrier island teeming with wildlife and unspoiled beauty. During the 90-minute walking tour, you'll learn about the tides and the island's history, the ecology of barrier islands and marshland, and search for treasures like shark teeth and shells. You may even spot a dolphin or two!

Visit Nearby Edisto Island

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While the Charleston area offers plenty of beaches, this sea island just 45 miles southwest of the city is less commercially developed than its peers and provides a more low-key coastal experience. Learn about the area's history at the Edisto Island Museum ; hike or bike the trails at the oceanfront Edisto Beach State Park ; and visit snakes, frogs, alligators, iguanas, and other reptiles at the Edisto Island Serpentarium .

Get Up Close with History at Fort Sumter

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Originally built as one of a series of fortifications on the Southern coast after the War of 1812, Fort Sumter is where Confederate forces first fired shots at the Union Army, thus starting the Civil War. Catch a ferry from Liberty Square Visitors Center or Patriots Point to the small island in Charleston Harbor, now part of the National Park Service. The site includes a small museum and a self-guided tour for visitors to explore the historic structure.

Go on an ArtWalk

The city's more than 40 downtown art galleries open their doors to the public as part of the Charleston Gallery Association's monthly ArtWalk series. Typically held on the third Thursday of each month, participating galleries, local boutiques, and restaurants stay open late, offering wine, snacks, and plenty of time for shopping and browsing.

Take a Picture with the Angel Oak Tree

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For your trip's most Instagram-worthy snap, head to nearby John's Island for photos with the famed Angel Oak Tree. At more than 400 years old, 65 feet high, and 25 feet wide, the tree is the largest live oak east of the Mississippi River. It's located down a long dirt road inside Angel Oak Park.

Tour Historic Graveyards and Cemeteries

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Dubbed the "Holy City" due to its proliferation of church spires, many of these historic houses of worship have on-site gravesites and cemeteries open to the public. At St. Philip's on Church Street, you'll find the final resting place of DuBose Heyward, whose novel Porgy inspired the George Gershwin opera "Porgy and Bess." Nearby, two signers of the American Constitution—John Rutledge and Charles Cotesworth Pinckney—are buried at St. Michael's, the city's oldest church.

Your Trip to Charleston: The Complete Guide

48 Hours in Charleston: The Perfect Itinerary

The 9 Best Museums in Charleston

Top Destinations in the Eastern United States

How to Travel from Myrtle Beach to Charleston by Bus, Car, and Plane

Getting Around Charleston: A Guide to Public Transportation

Photos of Charleston, South Carolina

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The 9 Best Day Trips From Charleston

Science Says This Is the Perfect U.S. Road Trip

An LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Charleston, South Carolina

Your Trip to Savannah: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Beaches in South Carolina

The Best Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia

The Best Staycation in Every State

10 Best Free Things to Do in North Florida

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20 Fun And Unique Things To Do In Charleston, SC

September 17, 2023 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you are searching for the best and most unique things to do in Charleston, South Carolina, look no further!

A visit to this beautiful city really is one of the best things to do in South Carolina for the whole family!

From the historic buildings to the welcoming people, Charleston is full of true Southern charm. This is one of my favorite cities to visit in the South!

This small city is known for its beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, delicious food, and coastal views.

Just by walking down the streets, you can find many places to explore and the best Charleston activities to keep you entertained.

Planning your trip to Charleston last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Charleston in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are our top picks for your trip :

Top Tours And Experiences In Charleston:

• Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride (Our pick!!)
• Historical Walking Tour (Great way to see the city)
• Historic Harbor Cruise (Can choose sunset or daytime!)
• City Highlights Guided Bus Tour (Relaxing tour)

Top picks for places to stay in Charleston:

• Francis Marion Hotel (Amazing historic district location)
• Hyatt Place Charleston Historic District (Affordable)
• Hotel Emeline (Upscale and chic)
• Market Pavilion Hotel (4 star Downtown location)

While many places are must-sees when visiting, there are also many unique places to visit in Charleston when you wander beyond the popular spots.

There are hidden alleyways with storied pasts, tours that take you to haunted places, and restaurants that have an intriguing history to go with their cuisine.

There is so much to experience in Charleston. Whether you’re looking to spend the day on the water or immerse yourself in the rich history and culture, here is a list of what to do in Charleston!

If you are planning a Southern trip but are not sure whether to choose Savannah or Charleston , check out my complete guide comparing the cities. You can’t go wrong with either!

Wander Along Rainbow Row

Charleston is a bright, vibrant city full of sunshine and many colorful buildings. But none are as recognizable as Rainbow Row, a stretch of 13 pastel-colored Georgian houses located on East Bay Street.

It is the perfect location for a photo opportunity as these colorful buildings stand out between the palm trees lining the street.

These homes were first constructed around 1740 and used by merchants. After the Civil War, this area was run-down until 1931 when they were revitalized and painted bright colors.

Now, it is one of the most popular areas in the city.

Rainbow Row is located in an ideal area to walk around and is one of the best free things to do in Charleston!

This is truly one of the best places to stay in Charleston . This area is not to be missed.

Charleston is one of the most romantic getaways in the South and with streets like this, it is easy to see why!

Book Here: Charleston: History and Architecture Guided Walking Tour

Stop By Philadelphia Alley

There’s a hidden passageway often missed when visiting Charleston.

Philadelphia Alley is a beautiful brick and cobblestone path that has the quaint charm the city is famous for. Walking down it feels like stepping back in time.

This quiet alley might seem ordinary, but there’s a unique history attached to it.

Also known as “Dueler’s Alley,” it is said that back in the 1700s this was the location where people would settle disputes. A famous story is one of the Whistling Doctor who participated in a duel but met his demise in Philadelphia Alley.

One of the fun things to do in Charleston is just to wander down different streets and pathways, never knowing what history may be stumbled upon.

When strolling around, don’t miss out on seeing this fascinating alley!

Book Here: Charleston: Historical Walking Tour

Learn History at Fort Sumter

One of the best things to do in Charleston for history lovers is a visit to Fort Sumter.

This is one of the most significant locations in US history as it was here that the first shots in the American Civil War were fired.

Now it is a national park open to visitors. Inside the fort are park rangers that will tell some of the history and stories about when it was in use.

There is also a museum inside with many artifacts and information about Charleston’s involvement in the war.

Even those who aren’t huge history buffs can enjoy this tour! To get to Fort Sumter and back, there is a relaxing ferry ride across the Charleston Harbor with views of the city skyline, the famous Ravenel Bridge, and the USS Yorktown.

It’s the perfect way to get on the water and see Charleston from a different angle. Keep an eye out for dolphins!

Book Here: Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride

Photograph the Angel Oak

The Angel Oak is an absolutely gorgeous tree located about 25 minutes from downtown Charleston. It is worth the drive for anyone interested in nature or looking for a photoshoot location.

This expansive tree is thought to be 400-500 years old and has survived many hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. Its largest branch spans almost 200 feet!

It is really a sight to behold and must not be missed! If you are looking for hidden gems in Charleston, this is one to add to your list.

Pretend you have stepped into Middle Earth as you admire this exquisite piece of nature and snap some pictures.

Visit the South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium has many native animals and plants, from the state’s mountains to the sea. Located on Charleston Harbor, the views from the aquarium also give a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat!

The largest exhibit is the Great Ocean Tank, which is the deepest tank in North America, filled with fish, sharks, and even a sea turtle.

There is also a touch tank where guests can touch horseshoe crabs, Atlantic stingrays, and other animals.

Another section inside the aquarium is the Sea Turtle Care Center which takes in injured sea turtles and rehabilitates them until they are able to be released back into the wild.

In this area, guests are able to see the sea turtles and learn about the care they receive from staff and volunteers of the aquarium.

With knowledgeable staff and many interactive elements, the South Carolina Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Charleston with kids!

Tour the Charleston Tea Garden

Located on an ideal island in the Charleston area, the Charleston Tea Garden is the perfect place to see how tea is grown and made in South Carolina.

Take a trolley tour around the 127-acre tea field and take the informative factory tour that shows what happens to the tea leaves to make the different teas.

The Charleston Tea Garden gift shop offers the chance to taste-test the nine flavors produced on their premises. This includes the American Classic Tea, which is the only brand of tea made exclusively with 100 percent American-grown tea.

The gift shop sells all the teas produced here as well as several hundred tea-related items.

As America’s only tea garden, this is one of the most unique things to do in Charleston for couples.

Even those who aren’t tea lovers can enjoy the views of the beautiful land and the magnificent trees growing at the Charleston Tea Garden!

Book Here: Charleston: Wadmalaw Island Wine Tasting and Tea Garden Trip

Shop at the Historic Charleston City Market

Charleston is known for its history and culture, and a great way to find both is at the Historic Charleston City Market.

Built in the early 1800s, it is one of the oldest public markets in the country and is full of unique goods made in Charleston.

It is here that many local artisans sell their work. Anything from paintings, photographs, jewelry, clothing, food, and so much more.

Some artisans can even be seen working on their art, especially those weaving sweetgrass baskets, an art primarily concentrated in South Carolina’s Lowcountry and a special Charleston tradition.

One of the fun things to do in Charleston is to explore the open market to see the many small and unique shops, meet the artisans, and even purchase the perfect Charleston souvenir!

The market is also one of the best places to visit during Christmas in Charleston !

Explore the Edmondston-Alston House

Located on the Battery with stunning views overlooking the harbor, the Edmondston-Alston House Tour is one of the best things to do in Charleston.

Inside the 1800s house is a vast collection of art, furniture, books, and silver owned by the family who lived there. Walking through the house gives guests the opportunity to see how people in Charleston may have lived during this time.

Guests are guided through the different rooms and then brought outside to the piazza to see the views of the Charleston Harbor.

The Confederate commander who gave the order to fire cannons on Fort Sumter which started the American Civil War stood and observed the bombardment from this piazza.

The beautifully decorated Edmondston-Alston House is a wonderful way for guests to explore the inside of a historic Charleston home and even imagine what life would have been like in the past.

There are many more house museums in town if you are looking for more of the top things in Charleston for history buffs.

Don’t forget to check out some of the cutest bed and breakfasts in Charleston !

Get Spooked on a Ghost Tour

Charleston may be known for being a bright, vibrant city, but is also known as being one of the most haunted cities in the United States.

For people who are interested in being spooked, ghost tours are always fun things to do in Charleston at night!

Many ghost tours are available in Charleston, each giving guests the chance to hear the darker history of the city and giving access to some of the most haunted places in the South .

The guides may lead guests through the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon for former war prisoners, to the cemetery where Annabelle Ravenel is rumored to be buried, and to jails where Charleston’s worst criminals lived and died.

Ghost tours are the perfect way to see more of Charleston and learn its hidden history. You might have the chance to see a Charleston ghost!

Book Here: Charleston: 90-Minute Ghost & Graveyard Walking Tour

Eat at Poogan’s Porch

Food in Charleston is always rated as some of the best in the world, and Poogan’s Porch is no exception.

This restaurant has delicious Lowcountry cuisine perfect for lunch and dinner all while being served inside a beautiful building. They also serve the best brunch in Charleston !

Poogan’s Porch is a restored and converted Victorian house located on quaint Queen Street.

Along with the amazing food, this restaurant is also known for having its own ghost story.

It was named after the dog, Poogan, who lived here until 1979. There are tales of visitors seeing the ghost of the dog as well as the ghost of the previous owners.

One of the best things to do in Charleston is to eat true Southern cuisine, and Poogan’s Porch is one of the best restaurants in Charleston to do so!

See a Show at the Dock Street Theater

For anyone interested in the arts scene, a stop by the Dock Street Theater is necessary!

Originally built in 1736, the theater was the first in the United States made exclusively for theater performances. The first opera performance in the U.S. also took place here.

The theater was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1740 and then rebuilt in 1809.

The theater is currently owned by the city of Charleston and operates year-round, showcasing productions from local artists as well as touring companies.

Visiting the Dock Street Theater and seeing quality performances is one of the unique Charleston activities!

Take a Ride on the Schooner Pride

The Schooner Pride is a replica of the 18th-century tall ships that used to sail in the Charleston Harbor and offers sailing tours of the area.

One of the best things to do in Charleston is to spend some time on the water and there’s no better way than sailing with the wonderful crew aboard the Schooner Pride.

Guests can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views as the ship sails through the harbor, passing the city of Charleston, the Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter, and many other staples in the city.

There is the option of taking the afternoon sail where guests can marvel at the wildlife and have a chance to see dolphins swimming nearby or at sunset to see the beautiful colors light up the sky.

The Schooner Pride is a perfect way to experience life on the water in Charleston!

Book Here: Charleston: Schooner Sailing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch

Step Back in Time at Aiken-Rhett House

When looking for one of the most unique things to do in Charleston, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum is the perfect stop.

While most buildings in Charleston have been renovated or restored, this house has been preserved. The furniture, architecture, paint, and decor are all as they were in the mid-1850s.

The Aiken-Rhett House Museum is open for guests to take a self-guided audio tour through the preserved home.

Visitors can learn the history of the people who resided here, including the lives of those enslaved on the property.

It is truly an eye-opening tour that gives a deeper look into some of Charleston’s past.

Find Amazing Views from Ravenel Bridge

For visitors looking to get some steps in while enjoying a nice view, walking the Ravenel Bridge is one of the best activities in Charleston.

The 2.5-mile-long bridge, recognized for its cable-stayed design, overlooks the Charleston Harbor and leads from the city of Charleston to Mount Pleasant.

While the bridge offers some of the most beautiful views from the top, some visitors might be swayed by their fear of heights.

In this case, there is a pier located under the bridge that offers the same views from a lower standpoint. Both the bridge and the pier allow visitors to see some of the most stunning views of Charleston!

Old Slave Mart Museum

While slavery is a dark spot in American history, it is important to learn about this time.

You can do just that at the Old Slave Mart Museum which is housed where enslaved people had been auctioned.

The historic building was constructed in 1856. It was used in the slave trade until 1863. At one point, close to 40% of enslaved people entered the US through Charleston.

The Old Slave Mart was first used as a museum in 1938. It was not until 2007 that it became the museum it is today with a dedication to teaching about slavery.

You will find many artifacts, documents, illustrations, and personal accounts.

Many staff members can trace their lineage back to those who once passed through the mart.

Watch Sunset from Waterfront Park

One of the most recognized areas in Charleston is Joe Riley Waterfront Park.

From the fun Pineapple Fountain in the center to the pier extending into the harbor, this eight-acre park is one of the best things to do in Charleston with kids.

Visitors can walk around the area and see views of the Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter, and the USS Yorktown from across the water.

Visitors can sit on the swings on the pier, watch the boats passing by, or look for wildlife in the water.

After a long day of walking around the city, Waterfront Park is the perfect place to relax! It is a great place to watch the sunset too!

A visit here is a must during a weekend in Charleston, South Carolina !

Visit the Islands and Beaches Near Charleston

If you want to enjoy a beach day, you do not have to venture far. There are so many great islands and beaches in Charleston to explore.

Folly Beach is about 20 minutes south and offers a beautiful escape from the city. Along with being perfect for sunbathing and swimming, this is one of the best beaches in South Carolina for surfing.

On the undeveloped Sullivan’s Island, you will find amazing stretches of beaches as well as many lighthouses, historic buildings, and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. This is one of the top islands in South Carolina for a beach vacation!

Looking for luxury things to do near Charleston? Head to Isle of Palms with its many resorts, golf courses, restaurants, and beaches.

Take a Charleston Culinary Tour

Foodies will want to take a food tour in order to try the best Southern meals offered in Charleston.

Taking a guided tour takes the guesswork out of finding the top restaurants and food options in the city. Enjoy delicious shrimp and grits, hushpuppies, she-crab soup, Lowcountry BBQ, and more yummy dishes.

In between stops at local eateries, you will walk the pretty streets and learn about the history of the city from your tour guide.

When visiting Charleston, SC, you must take a culinary tour since food is a great way to learn about a location. This is a great activity for the whole family.

Maybe you’ll discover a great place for breakfast in Charleston !

Book Here: Charleston: Historic Downtown Food Tour with Tastings

Grab a Drink at Camellias

Looking for a chic place for a drink in town? Camellias is a beautifully designed, premier champagne lounge at Hotel Bennett.

Named the Most Instagrammable Restaurant in South Carolina by Food Network, this is one of the best things to do in Charleston for adults wanting a relaxing bar scene.

You will adore the pink decor, crystal chandelier, and reclaimed marble.

The food menu features caviar, charcuterie, and local seafood. The is also an extensive champagne and wine selection.

The tasty cocktails include Honey I’m Comb, To Peach Their Own, and Keep Your Gin Up.

Shop on King Street

King Street is the historic shopping district in Charleston. According to U.S. News & World Report , it is one of America’s Best Shopping Streets.

Whether you buy anything or just window shop, this is a great place in town for a stroll among beautiful buildings.

There are all sorts of goods for sale on this street. Shop for bridal gowns, antiques, candles, jewelry, books, vintage clothing, home decor, and more.

Purchase designer goods while supporting local businesses.

You will also find many trendy art galleries, restaurants, and bars. Check into one of the best boutique hotels in Charleston , too.

If you love shopping while traveling, you have to include King Street on your Charleston itinerary.

Book Here: Charleston: King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks

A Note About Visiting Plantations in Charleston

When searching for attractions in Charleston, you will often see things like Boone Hall Plantation, Magnolia Plantation, and Middleton Place pop up.

We want to take a moment to say that we recommend against visiting these locations. Based on personal experience, plantations tend to glorify slavery and sugarcoat the enslaved people’s experience.

Touring homes built by slaveowners or hosting weddings where enslaved people were forced to work feels inappropriate.

While it is important to learn about this harrowing time in American history, we believe there are better ways to do so like visiting the Old Slave Mart Museum.

We encourage you to make your own decisions on visiting Charleston plantations, but please keep this in mind when planning your trip.

What About Carriage Rides in Charleston?

Another popular activity in Charleston we would advise against is taking horse-drawn carriage rides. This is for the sake of the horses.

The animals are often overworked or made to pull carriages in hot temperatures. Horses in Charleston and elsewhere are occasionally injured or even collapse while working.

Working in an urban setting side by side with cars is also not good for the horses’ health or overall well-being.

There are so many other fun things to do in Charleston that it is easy to avoid taking a carriage tour.

Hopefully, you have found some cool things to do in Charleston this weekend!

Next, check out some more of the best weekend getaways in South Carolina !

Why Charleston, South Carolina Is the Hottest Travel Destination In the U.S.

Nowhere in America right now serves up as much rich history, high art, and good food as this southern gem.

Coming home at the end of my first day in Charleston to 86 Cannon ("The Poinsette House"), a recently opened five-room boutique hotel in a renovated building from 1862, I found dangling from the brass doorknob to my room, in its own little gauze bag, a piece of chocolate boxed and tied with a pink ribbon—a charming riff on the tired luxury hotel trope of the turndown pillow treat. There seemed something ineffably “Charleston now” about that offering—small, well presented, and good to eat.

I was here to experience what’s behind Charleston’s transformation into one of America’s most visited cities to sample in six days a bit of this and that: hotels, museums, excursions, and restaurants .

There was a method to the madness: My adventure felt figuratively right, in this most gastronomically creative of places, where renowned chef Sean Brock had just reimagined his McCrady’s as a 22-seat tasting-menu-only establishment.

“For more than a hundred years after the Civil War we were a dusty old jewel box,” said Tommy Dew, who runs historical tours in downtown Charleston. “A broken agrarian society. And then”—Dew has a colorful way with language—“they ripped the lid off. And people are mesmerized by how interesting it is—the architecture, the food, the entire environment. We are the product of really rich white folks and of a really rich black culture. And because we lived in geographic and economic isolation for generations after the war along this coast, there’s a purity here that people like. Charleston is real.”

Walking in History

Nothing embodies that purity quite like downtown, the city’s historic core, and I proceeded—as one naturally does here—to go on walkabouts. In a roughly five-square-mile area on the at, flood-prone peninsula formed by the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper rivers where they flow into Charleston Harbor and the Atlantic (the confident and self-regarding pre–Civil War Charlestonians were wont to say “where they create the Atlantic”), you can find at least 100 buildings from before 1776 and 1,000 from before 1861: civic structures, churches, merchants’ mansions, and townhouses built by early America’s wealthiest rice and cotton planters to flaunt their riches. And unlike in other American cities mindful of landmark preservation, nothing new mars the visual continuity.

Nowhere else have I seen so many plaques announcing National Register of Historic Places status. I was mesmerized by the tiers of columned side porches, called piazzas, and by the masterful ironwork of gates, balconies, window grills, and fences. (Some of the best examples are by an African-American blacksmith, Philip Simmons, who in the course of a 78-year career elevated a practical craft into an art form and whose work is now in the Smithsonian.)

I peered into statue-studded half-hidden gardens, the trees lushly abloom. private, announced one sign, please enjoy from street—Southern manners applied even to a warning about trespassing.

American history informs every marker in the city, and rambling yields an education. The house at 117 Broad Street? That belonged to Edward Rutledge, one of three Charlestonians to sign the Declaration of Independence. (Reflective of its prominent status in the 18th century, Charleston also had three signers of the Constitution.)

The red brick building at 87 Church? George Washington stayed there during his 1791 tour of the Deep South. A plaque on his statue sums up the visit tellingly: Washington’s “enormous personal popularity served as a significant force in binding the former thirteen colonies into a single nation...Confronted with the competing philosophies of northern businessmen and southern planters, [he] had the unique ability to recognize and promote the best of each.”

The prominent grave in St. Philip’s churchyard belongs to John C. Calhoun, the pro–limited government, pro-slavery seventh vice president of the United States, whose beliefs would strongly influence the South’s secession from the Union (which began with South Carolina). Rainbow Row, the longest cluster of intact pre-Revolutionary row houses in the United States, fronts East Bay, where slaves were auctioned; more people from Africa and the Caribbean arrived in America through Charleston Harbor than anywhere else.

Fittingly, Rainbow Row inspired Catfish Row in George Gershwin’s 1935 opera Porgy and Bess , which was itself based on a 1925 novel by Charlestonian DuBose Heyward about the lives of freed blacks who converged on the city from the surrounding countryside in the decades after the Civil War.

As native son and historian Robert Rosen has noted, even at the city’s most down and depleted, beyond “the supposed climax, defeat in the Civil War, [Charleston’s] people are so complicated that the ‘blacks and whites all mix’d together’ produced a greatness... Porgy and Bess , the Charleston, the jazz of the Jenkins Orphanage Band, the preservation movement, and the Spoleto Festival USA.” And astounding cuisine, influenced in the last decade by the revival of ingredients, especially heirloom grains, used by the Gullah people, descendants of African slaves.

Progressive Meals

Indeed. The food scene has gotten so hot that according to a recent article in the Charleston Post and Courier there is now one-upmanship even among the city’s restaurant bathroom designers. And my casual pretrip canvassing yielded a staggering 48 ecstatic recommendations for places to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus sweetshops and takeouts.

I did my best to partake of as much as I could, sometimes opting for a progressive meal—appetizers, say, at the casual and convivial Little Jack’s Tavern (how you make a plate of crudités exciting I don’t know, but they did it through some mysterious combination of presentation, freshness, and dip) and main courses at Leon’s Oyster Shop, which is in a former auto repair garage (char-grilled oysters, fried Brussels sprouts, scalloped potatoes, fried chicken: ultimate comfort food).

Lata’s FIG couldn’t seat me in its white-tableclothed dining room until 10 p.m. (it hadn’t occurred to me to book a month ahead), but the bar was jolly, and I still dream about the two appetizers I had: a tomato tarte tatin and a Carolina peach and lemon cucumber salad.

At the formal Peninsula Grill one night, I decided to go all out. I ordered: six oysters; the Lowcountry classic, she-crab soup; and lobster three ways. And because the place is famous for its 12-layer Ultimate Coconut Cake, I asked for a piece. “May I please just have a fraction of a portion,” I implored my waiter. "No, ma'am," he responded, after first disappearing into the kitchen. “The chef feels that if you take away any layers, it’s no longer the ultimate.”

Beaches and Beyond

Mornings were for excursions into the beauty of the Lowcountry: grand estates, barrier islands, estuaries and creeks. One day I Ubered it to two country estates along the Ashley River. Drayton Hall, founded in 1738 by John Drayton and considered an outstanding example of Palladian architecture in North America (if not its nest colonial home), not only survived intact both the Revolutionary and Civil wars, it was kept by ensuing generations of Draytons virtually in its original condition: no plumbing, electricity, or anachronistic furniture—true historic preservation.

“What you are looking at is what people in the 1700s saw,” the museum guide wanted to make clear. (Similar authenticity is found in town at the Aiken-Rhett House Museum.) But what struck me more powerfully than even the empty, untouched rooms and progressively ornate columns (Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, the last reserved for the upstairs chamber where dancing took place) was the service staircase behind a wooden door—narrow, steep, spiraling, and utterly dark. “It is incredible how people managed,” the guide pointed out.“ There is no bannister. The enslaved women wore long skirts. They held candles to light their way, large trays, chamber pots. This was a very busy staircase.”

What stopped me at nearby Middleton Place, built in phases during the 1700s and 1800s and the birthplace of Arthur Middleton, another of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, was the formal gardens. America’s oldest and largest, they were inspired by a design by André Le Nôtre, who created Louis XIV’s gardens at Versailles.

After sampling the easy modern luxuries of Kiawah Island, 27 miles away (secluded private compounds, vast beaches, 30 miles of biking trails, golf courses, and, for those who don’t own a home here, the lovely Sanctuary Hotel), I rose one morning before dawn for a three-hour kayak tour, starting in nearby Mount Pleasant and paddling down Shem Creek estuary, which was still lined with shrimping boats, and out into Charleston Harbor.

The manatee that my guide, Geoff Caruso of Coastal Expeditions, had been tracking in the creek chose not to make an appearance, but once we had paddled into the harbor proper two dolphins did, busily herding fish for their breakfast all around us as ospreys dive-bombed for theirs and pelicans stood mostly motionless on their small island breeding ground. We paddled near the private docks of some fine antebellum homes, angled just so to catch the breeze.

“The planters were the billionaires of their day, the one percent of the one percent,” Caruso said. “And one of the great ironies is that the Africans taught them to plant the rice that made them rich.”

He pointed toward the forts: the Revolutionary War–era Fort Moultrie and Fort Sumter, from which the first shots of the Civil War were red and which guards the entrance to the harbor, and then toward the church-steepled silhouette of the so-called “Holy City” before us, growing progressively lighter with the rising sun. “You can see from out here everything people come to Charleston for.”

Well, yes and no. “The beauty of Charleston,” Robert Rosen wrote in 1982, “mesmerizes people and makes it difficult for them to visualize the morality play that is Charleston's history.” Maybe that was so then, but I was struck by how the city stands for so much more than the spectacle of its landscape. Everywhere I went, Charleston seemed to be airing the good and the bad of its provenance—prosperity based on slavery—and the foundational American racial divide it engendered. In our age, riven with all manner of division, this old city didn’t strike me as dusty at all but uncannily of the moment and consequential.

Charleston is itself a living museum, but these institutions deepen the experience immeasurably:

• Aiken-Rhett House Museum
• Drayton Hall Plantation
• Gibbes Museum of Art
• Middleton Place Plantation
• Nathaniel Russell House Museum

Tours to Book

Tommy Dew's Walking History: If you haven’t been to Charleston before, the informed and personable Dew provides an excellent overview (with a Southern perspective). $25 per person for 2 hours, tommydewswalkingtour.com

Coastal Expeditions: Bespoke half, full, and multiday kayak tours along creeks, beaches, and estuaries with expert naturalist guides—the way to see the Lowcountry’s natural beauty. Coastalexpeditions.com

All Roads North: If you want to combine Charleston with a longer visit to the Lowcountry, this company will customize the ideal luxury road trip. Ask for Sam Highley. allroadsnorth.com

Where I Ate

Cru Cafe : Casual spot with porch seating so beloved by locals you should make a reservation.

FIG : One of the first places to establish Charleston’s high-end farm-to-table dining. Book a month ahead.

Hominy Grill : The place for brunch. Classic, fresh Lowcountry dishes—I loved the shrimp and grits—in a historic “single house.”

Leon's Oyster Shop : Superbly done Southern comfort food in a renovated garage. I liked it so much I went twice.

Little Jack's Tavern : I had a slew of appetizers at the bar and enjoyed every bite and every minute. I hear the burgers are great.

McCrady's Tavern : Chef Sean Brock’s newest venture: perfect American pub food and a lively bar.

The Ordinary : This high-energy place in a former bank (the kitchen is in the vault), with rum and oyster bars, specializing in seafood.

Peninsula Grill : Classic Southern restaurant, with velvet walls, superb service, and the Ultimate Coconut Cake.

Where I Stayed

86 Cannon: Fresh five-room gem in a fully restored 1862 “single house” in a chic emerging area. Inn keepers Marion and Lori Hawkins are genial hosts with helpful tips on their constantly evolving town.

The Restoration: Central location, all suites, and a buzzy rooftop restaurant and bar called the Watch—the place to see the sun set over Charleston. The suite kitchens make it a good family choice, too.

Zero George: Five historic residential buildings around a romantic courtyard. Casual elegance, loads of charm, and an award-winning kitchen that makes dinner a must.

Where I'll Stay Next Time

Belmond Charleston Place: The larger luxury option, with a spa, boutiques, gym, and a great rooftop pool.

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort: Grand family resort on immense beach with all amenities and excellent service. (I only ate and swam this time.)

The Spectator Hotel: For a style change: 1920s-inspired glamour, a butler for every room, and a book-lined cocktail lounge.

Text and photographs by Klara Glowczewska.

This story appears in the November 2017 issue of Town & Country.

Klara Glowczewska is the Executive Travel Editor of Town & Country , covering topics related to travel specifically (places, itineraries, hotels, trends) and broadly (conservation, culture, adventure), and was previously the Editor in Chief of Conde Nast Traveler magazine. 

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65 Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC: The Ultimate Bucket List

• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2024-05-28

Experience history, art, food, and beaches all in one magnificent area in Charleston, SC!

There is so much to do in Charleston. We’ve lived here for years and are still finding new things to do!

Want to bum on a beach for a week? Eat every delicious piece of food you can find? Perhaps you’re most interested in the history of the area? Or some combo of all of the above?

Use this ultimate bucket list of 65 things to do in Charleston to plan your vacation based on your interests!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Where is That Cool Thing? Suburbs of the Charleston Area

When you think of Charleston, SC you think of historic buildings like Rainbow Row, old Southern charm, beaches, plantations, and giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss.

The Charleston area absolutely has all of that, but it’s not all located within the city limits .

These are the main areas in and around Charleston:

• Downtown Charleston (The Historic District), aka The Peninsula
• Northeast: Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, & Sullivan’s Island
• Southwest : West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island, & Folly Beach
• More Area Beaches: Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island
• Inland Suburbs: North Charleston, Summerville, Goose Creek, Monck’s Corner

We’ve broken down the things to do in Charleston by area to make it easier for you to find things near your hotel, or wherever you are when you find this list.

If you need more information on the different areas in Charleston, check out our guide for where to stay in Charleston. It includes a good neighborhood guide.

Now that we’re better acquainted with the neighborhoods around Charleston, let’s look at specific sights to see in each area.

Fun Things to Do in Charleston’s Historic District

Good to Know : There are no plantations in the historic district downtown. Plantations are farms, and Charleston has always been a city. Plantations are discussed below in the things to do in Mount Pleasant and things to do in West Ashley sections.

1. Liberty Square & Mini Fort Sumter Museum

Small park area on the Cooper River waterfront, north of the historic district, featuring the aquarium and the FREE museum for the history behind Fort Sumter.

The dock for the paid ferry transport out to Fort Sumter National Monument in the harbor is also here. However, you can also take a ferry to Fort Sumter from Patriot’s Point. See below in Things to do in Mount Pleasant.

2. Fort Sumter National Monument

See where the American Civil War began. Federal troops were stationed at Fort Sumter when South Carolina seceded. The first shots of the Civil War were fired here as South Carolina militia tried to take the fort from the federal soldiers.

Take the ferry out to the fort in the middle of Charleston Harbor and explore this pivotal historical site for yourself.

3. South Carolina Aquarium

A bit north of the historic district, at Liberty Square. Great option for a rainy day activity in Charleston , or for escaping the midday sun and heat.

Don’t miss the sea turtle hospital inside or the touch pool with sting rays just outside of the main entrance.

4. The Charleston Gaillard Center

Home to the Charleston Symphony Orchestra , this is the premier performing arts venue for downtown Charleston. Check their website for special events.

5. Historic Charleston City Market

Covered but open-air market in the heart of the historic district, dating back hundreds of years. Grab some delicious snacks and a souvenir from a local business.

Beware: not all of the trinkets are locally made.

6. Take a Carriage Tour

Several horse carriage tours will trot you around town for a small group, in-depth history tour of the city. Old South Carriage Company and Palmetto Carriage Works are the two most popular options.

For those that are worried about animal ethics in tourism, these horses are well-cared for and not overworked.

They don’t live downtown full time. There are barns downtown while they’re working, but the horses all get days off and are transported back out to their open field paddocks.

Ask the drivers or the ticket agents about the horses’ welfare. They’ll tell you all about it. The city keeps a close eye on this industry, too.

7. Joe Riley Waterfront Park

Beautiful park along the Cooper River waterfront, just a block east from Bay Street and all those restaurants. Full of gorgeous live oaks for some shade, the famous pineapple fountain , and the downtown pier .

Another fountain on the north end of the park, by the pier, is frequently used as splash pad for kids to cool off in the summer.

A free option for watching fireworks from Patriot’s Point on July 4 th . It is a little weird without the music, but hey, can’t beat free!

8. Take a Walking Tour around Charleston

Walking tours are a fantastic introduction to a new city and are tailored to various topics, not just exclusively history tours. Try Bulldog Tours or Lowcountry Walking Tours .

9. Take a Ghost Tour, if you dare

Ghost tours are enormously popular in this old city. Some are adults only, so check with your tour operator before bringing anyone under 18.

There are pub crawls and food crawls that have a haunted slant, too, if that’s your thing.

10.  Stroll down King Street for all your shopping needs

King Street is a shopaholic’s dream, lined with luxury and designer stores as well as local shops for that piece of Charleston flair!

11.  The Charleston Museum

Collection of local historical artifacts, but also the museum founder’s eclectic private collection of objects from around the world. Great rainy day activity!

12.  Children’s Museum of the Low Country

Interactive exhibits for children to develop skills while having fun! Explore the art room, the performing arts studio, be a pirate, or take a trip to the grocery store or garden. Kids will love it!

13.  The Gibbes Museum of Art

Painted portraits and drawings, with rotating exhibits as well as permanent collections showcasing Charleston’s own artists.

Right around the corner from Husk, a popular Charleston restaurant, the Gibbes Museum is worth a stop to escape the history tours and museums and get a good dose of art instead.

14.  Take a Step Back in Time on a Historic Home Tour

The city of Charleston has been around since the Carolina colony was established in the 1600s.

Several homes in the historic district have been restored to their period grandeur, whether that’s colonial or antebellum or somewhere in between.

Most of these house tours can be combined with tickets to other attractions. Here are five of the most popular options, in alphabetical order.

• Aiken-Rhett House
• Edmondston-Alston House
• Heyward-Washington House
• Joseph Manigault House
• Nathaniel Russel House

There are more restored historic homes than you can possibly see in a week. Pick a couple of your favorites, but leave room in your itinerary for other sites.

15.  Rainbow Row

Go early for good lighting and fewer people in your picture. This is a popular photo spot, but there isn’t anything to do here.

The houses are privately owned and not open to the public. Plan to get your picture for the ‘Gram, and then move on to something else nearby.

16.  Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

Preserving the colonial era use, this building covers several important events in the history of South Carolina.

It served as a prison for the British, oversaw the political debate behind the South Carolina delegates that ratified the United States Constitution, entertained a crowd when George Washington came to town, and witnessed the tragedy of slave auctions outside its walls when it was a customs house.

Explore two floors on your own, and follow a period-dressed guide through the dungeons.  

17.  Old Charleston Jail

Creepy castle-like jail, said to be haunted. Take a night guided tour for the full effect. It’s a bit further west from the rest of the historic district.

18.  Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, at the College of Charleston

Free contemporary art gallery located on the College of Charleston’s campus. No classical paintings or landscapes here!

19.  The Battery (and White Point Garden)

Another beautiful park covered by large live oak trees. This one is on the southern tip of the peninsula for amazing views of Charleston Harbor from the sea wall walk.

Various military monuments and cannons are in the park, harkening back to when this area was a military battery for artillery (and where it gets its name).

20.  Enjoy a Charleston Rooftop Bar for Sunset

So many options! Most hotels in the historic district have one, and many more can be spotted by the umbrellas or lights on their roofs at night.

21.  Historic Charleston Homes You Can Sleep In

For those that really love history, stay in a beautifully restored home at one of the following boutique hotels downtown.

• Zero George Street
• Barksdale House Inn
• Wentworth Mansion
• The Governor’s House Inn
• John Rutledge House Inn
• Elliott House Inn

Most are within easy walking distance of the City Market, the hub of the historic district north of Broad Street. Wentworth Mansion and Zero George are both a bit further out, but still walkable.

22.  St Philip’s Church

Charleston’s oldest church and the benchmark for building height in the historic district. No building in the historic district is allowed to be taller than the St Philip’s Church spire, hence Charleston’s lack of skyscraper office buildings.

A beautiful photo op, most carriage and walking tours pass by here. It’s also only a block or two south of the City Market.

23.  Alleys & Hidden Passages tour

The colonial town never lost its charm! This is a walking tour, but it’s not just a generic history tour. Cobblestone alleys are still prevalent and this tour by Lowcountry Walks will tour them all.

Fun Things to Do in Mount Pleasant

This section covers Mount Pleasant only , with very easy access to downtown Charleston but more affordable lodging and food.

The beachfront islands of Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms are discussed in their own sections later.

24.  Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Explore the WWII era USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, deck by deck, and see amazing views of the Ravenel bridge and downtown Charleston from the flight deck. The USS Laffey (a destroyer) and USS Clamagore (a submarine) are also on site, ready to be explored, usually with fewer people.

Note the submarine is a bit tight in places for those of you that get claustrophobic. Lots of walking but well worth it!

25.  Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park & Pier

Great example of using space wisely! The park and pier are located underneath the east end of the Ravenel bridge. Plenty of parking, a few shops for snacks, and a memorial to the armed forces.

The Mount Pleasant Pier extends out into the Cooper River, great for strolling or fishing but also for unreal sunset photos of the Ravenel bridge.

26.  Walk or Bike the Arthur Ravenel Bridge

The Ravenel bridge accommodates not only vehicles but also pedestrians!

Park under the bridge at the Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park and follow the sidewalk east until it connects to the protected pedestrian path that crosses the bridge. Bikers welcome, too!

Many locals walk/run/bike here every day. The viewing areas at the two center towers inspire some unforgettable photographs. The views of downtown, the USS Yorktown , and enormous ocean freighters coming up the Cooper River to the Ports of Charleston are phenomenal!

Beware: it gets very windy up on the bridge!

27.  Boone Hall Plantation

Drive through the gorgeous Avenue of Oaks and then explore the rest of the plantation. Features Gullah Cultural Presentations from modern day descendants. Corn maze and pumpkin patch in Fall. Christmas lights in December.

28.  Charles Pinckney National Historic Site

Charles Pinckney was a significant contributing author of and signer of the US Constitution. See what’s left of his Charleston plantation home and learn more about his life here and his role in the creation of America. Worth a quick stop if you’re already in the area.

29.  Shem Creek Park & Boardwalk

Visit in late afternoon for wonderful views of the salt marsh and Shem Creek as the sun sets. Unique view of the Ravenel bridge through the trees from the boardwalk!

30.  Shem Creek Dining & Shopping

Fresh seafood brought in daily by the boats lining the creek. The Wreck and The Mill Street Tavern are popular favorites for dinner on the creek. Shopping lines the road in both directions.

31.  See the Pitt Street Bridge

Another short walk out into the marsh with beautiful views of the harbor and an unfinished bridge. A magical place to watch the sunset behind downtown Charleston!

Best Things to Do in West Ashley, Johns Island, and James Island

This section covers things to do west of downtown, besides the beachfront islands.

Many of these sites can be explored via a group tour that provides bus transportation from downtown, or get in your rental car and go explore!

32.  Charles Town Landing State Historic Site

Explore the Charles Town Landing State Historic Site , the first spot where colonial settlers touched land to settle the Carolina colony. Includes a small but thorough museum, historic fort ruins, a colonial schooner ship, a small zoo, and beautiful gardens.

Great spot for kids to run around and explore, or rent bikes from the visitor center to get around quicker!

33.  McLeod Plantation

A Charleston County Park, this plantation focuses exclusively on the enslaved peoples’ stories. The guides don’t pull any punches here, either, which is awesome and appropriate.

Slavery was a terrible thing. Period. And Reconstruction after the Civil War didn’t go much better. Definitely the most truthful and honest discussion of all the Charleston area plantations .

Located on James Island just across Wappoo Creek. You will pass this site on your way to Folly Beach.

34.  Middleton Place Plantation and Gardens

Middleton Plantation has formal gardens, gorgeous camellias and azaleas covering much of the grounds, and a working stable yard with animals. The Middleton family was one of the earliest settlers and were prominent in early Charleston politics.

35.  Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

This one has all the peacocks , a small petting zoo that kids love, extensive romantic gardens, and a separate natural swamp tour area (which is much nicer than it sounds!).

36.  Drayton Hall Plantation

No gardens but impeccably preserved-as-found house. Fascinating history of the land and property after the end of the Civil War when the new owners turned to phosphate mining.

Can’t decide which plantation to visit? Use this free checklist and guide to the best plantations to visit near Charleston. Compare cost, activities, dining options, shopping options, and distance from downtown to help you choose which plantation(s) to include in your Charleston vacation itinerary.

37.  Angel Oak

The oldest and largest live oak tree you will ever see! This tree is 11ft thick in places, covers over 17,000sft of land with its branches, and is centuries, possibly over a thousand, years old.

38.  Charleston Tea Garden

Located on Wadmalaw Island, the Charleston Tea Garden is a unique day trip experience . The only tea plantation in the US, this is a rare look into the process of growing and processing tea. A hidden gem in Charleston!

Oceanfront Islands and Beaches near Charleston

If you want a full comparison of all of Charleston’s beaches, see our full guide to the 9 Best Charleston Beaches .

Fun Things to Do on Isle of Palms

The main draw to Isle of Palms is the beach. Resorts are on the far (north) east end of the island and have their own amenities, including a golf course, but really, you come to IOP to spend the day on the beach.

Access from Mount Pleasant, typically along the IOP (the Isle of Palms Connector, for short). Can be accessed from Sullivan’s Island, too, but this is much slower unless you’re already over there.

39.  Isle of Palms County Park

*editor’s favorite local beach*

Easiest access to the public beach with good facilities : real restrooms, private changing stalls with locks, freshwater showers, snack vendors, chair and umbrella rentals, a playground, and sand volleyball courts.

40.  Kayak or SUP the backwaters

Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) from Coastal Expeditions and explore the tidal backwaters at your leisure for a few hours, or sign up for a tour if you prefer a guide.

Kayaking is the best way to see the tidal backwaters of Charleston. Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant is the most popular spot, but the Isle of Palms location is less crowded.

Best Things to Do on Sullivan’s Island

Accessed from Mount Pleasant via Ben Sawyer Boulevard over the Ben Sawyer Bridge. This backs up big time at rush hour, so leave yourself plenty of extra time if you’re trying to make a dinner reservation downtown after a day out on Sullivan’s Island.

41.  Go to the Beach!

Quieter than most beaches because water activities are limited the closer you get to Charleston Harbor. Ocean currents on the far west end are so strong that swimming is prohibited, but the beaches are beautiful, big, and sandy!

Perfect for watching the sun rise, for sunbathing, and for watching freighters enter the harbor.

42.  Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie National Historical Park

Fort Moultrie is actually older than Fort Sumter , used continuously from the colonial era through the 1950s. Learn about the original fort built from palmetto logs that baffled the British cannons and the subsequent upgrades made for the War of 1812, the Civil War, and World War II.

Beware : the NPS visitor center parking lot is locked at closing time.

Continue to explore the outside area around the fort after closing, but be sure to move your car to the free on street parking near Battery Jasper. Otherwise, your car gets locked in the visitor center parking lot overnight.

43.  Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse

You can’t climb this lighthouse, but it is preserved by the NPS as part of the Fort Moultrie complex.

44.  Eat delicious food

The beach town vibe is strong on Sullivan’s Island. The cute eateries 100% support that vibe. Check out The Obstinate Daughter , Poe’s Tavern , or Home Team BBQ .

Fun Things to Do on Folly Island

Accessed from the West Ashley side, from James Island. The most popular beach near Charleston, Folly Island is equal parts laid-back and lively.

45.  Chillax at Folly Beach

Enjoy a stress-free day at the beach!

46.  Stroll Folly Pier

The 2 nd longest pier on the US east coast , the Folly Pier is a destination in its own right. Even if it’s not an ideal day for the beach, it’s still probably a good day to visit the pier. Walk out over the ocean and just watch the sun rise or set.

There is a small entry fee, to keep all that pier maintained, but there are also restaurants and a shop for beach souvenirs, or more importantly, ice cream to enjoy while you stroll down the pier!

47.  Peruse the Center Street shops and restaurants

Boutique shops line the main road as you enter Folly Island. Take some time to walk around, browse, and maybe buy a souvenir. The majority of the island’s restaurants are in this same stretch.

48.  Check out Folly Beach County Park

The far (south)west end of the island is the county park, with perhaps slightly fewer people as most people prefer to be closer to the pier.

Best Things to Do on Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a private, gated community. The majority of the island, with the exception of the western end which is a county park, is private access only.

To visit Kiawah without staying on the island, get a dining or golf reservation and they will let you through the front gate with proof of reservation.

49.  Kiawah Beachwalker Park

This county park is the only way onto Kiawah Island without reservations . Turn right onto Beachwalker Drive, just before the main gate, and follow it to the county park.

This beach has freshwater showers and changing rooms as well as restrooms. Beautiful views of the salt marsh across the river and the dunes as you walk the boardwalk to the beach.

Fair Warning : The parking lot fills up fast during the summer, so get there early if you want a spot. Otherwise, you’ll have to drive all the way back to your hotel.

50.  Freshfields Village

The open-air shopping mall/village area that serves both Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. It’s located at the parkway split at the roundabout, outside of the gates of both islands so it’s accessible to the general public. Beachy shops and local restaurants, but not worth the drive by itself.

51.  The Sanctuary Spa

Relax and let your cares be massaged or steamed away! Try not to think about the price tag, but a surefire way to gain access to this exclusive island.

52.  Golf like the Pros

Kiawah is world famous for its golf courses; this island delivers for those looking for a golf vacation with 5 different courses on this island alone. Oh, and these are the courses where the pros play the PGA Championships. If golf is your idea of a good time, then look no further in the Charleston area.

Things to Do on Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island is the most secluded, private island community near Charleston. Facilities on the island are residents or club members only, and there is no county park to get you on the island to test out the beaches.

You must either have a lodging reservation to get on the island or be a guest of a club member. For more information on this community, check out their website .

One day we’ll get over there ourselves, even if we have to rent an Airbnb when we live only an hour away. 😅

Other Unique Things to Do in Charleston

53.  cypress gardens.

If you’ve ever seen the movies The Patriot or The Notebook , you’ve seen Cypress Gardens! (Remember that chapel in the swamp in The Patriot ? Filmed here!)

Taking a boat out is included in the price of admission and has some pretty unique views of this beautiful swamp garden full of cypress trees. Mid-April is azalea season, so the garden surrounding the water bursts into color. Don’t miss the butterfly house, see alligators in the wild, not to mention the behemoth gators they have as an attraction at the visitor center!

Located 40 minutes north of downtown Charleston, the address is Moncks Corner, but it’s about halfway between Goose Creek and Moncks Corner. Worth the visit if you have the time!

54.  Spend a Day on Bulls Island

The furthest northeast barrier island that can be attributed to the Charleston area, Bulls Island is a natural preserve perfect for an outdoor enthusiast’s day out. Don’t miss Boneyard Beach at sunrise!

55.  Morris Island Lighthouse

The iconic lighthouse of Charleston Harbor. No vehicle access to this island. However, drive to the far (north)east end of Folly Island to the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve and get some beautiful pictures. Or, book a sunset cruise out to the lighthouse. You won’t regret it!

56.  Visit The Hunley

A Civil War-era submarine, the H.L. Hunley , mysteriously disappeared for over 150 years before researchers found it in the mud in Charleston Harbor and were able to raise it and preserve it.

Research is ongoing on this remarkable piece of history. Find out more on their website .

Open weekends only and located north of downtown in the Old Navy Base area near Riverfront Park (not to be confused with Waterfront Park downtown). A replica of the Hunley is sitting outside of the Charleston Museum in downtown as well.

57.  North Charleston Fire Museum

This is, as the name suggests, north of Charleston proper in the suburb of North Charleston, conveniently right next to the outlet mall and Coliseum, if you’re looking for something to do before a concert or Stingrays game.

58.  Golf Your Heart Out

We mentioned this one specifically for Kiawah Island, but it applies to the entire Charleston area as well. Several golf courses surround the Charleston area: Seabrook, Kiawah, Isle of Palms, Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, Goose Creek, and Summerville all have multiple golf courses of their own.

Patriot’s Point Links is closest to downtown Charleston, just hop across the river and it’s right next to the aircraft carrier.

59.  Cheer on the Charleston RiverDogs

Charleston’s minor league baseball team , the RiverDogs, are a farm team for the Tampa Bay Rays. Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park, affectionately called “The Joe” by locals, is located on the Ashley River side of the downtown peninsula, opposite of the historic district on the Cooper River side.

Cheap tickets and a fun evening activity for the whole family! Often includes post-game fireworks!

60.  Or, Cheer on the Charleston Battery

The Charleston Battery soccer club is tied for oldest professional soccer club in the US. The Charleston Battery plays in the USL league, like a minor league for the MLS.

They recently changed stadiums in 2019 and are now playing at Patriots Point Soccer Stadium just across the bridge from downtown.

61.  Or, Cheer on the South Carolina Stingrays

If hockey is more your speed for sports, head to the North Charleston Coliseum, near the airport and the outlet mall, and cheer on the South Carolina Stingrays.

Yes, we were also surprised when we found out Charleston had a hockey team, but if there’s one thing the South is great at, it’s air conditioning. 😂

Festivals and Events to Experience in Charleston

62.  charleston restaurant week.

Sample 3-5 course menus for a fixed fee to encourage trying out new restaurants in Charleston. This event actually lasts 11 days to capture two full weekends, typically held in early January.

The Restaurant Week website will have the full list of participating restaurants and their menus. Reservations HIGHLY recommended.

63.  The Charleston Festival

Previously, the Festival of Houses and Gardens.

Tour Charleston’s immaculate Historic District homes and gardens, most not open to the public any other time of year. Typically held in mid-March to early April, usually in time for azaleas to bloom.

64.  Spoleto Festival

Held the week after Memorial Day and into the first couple weeks of June, the Spoleto international performing arts festival is not to be missed!

65.  Holiday Festival of Lights

Held at James Island County Park, this beautiful drive thru Christmas light display will cheer up anyone’s holidays! Includes vendors for snacks and souvenirs. Ongoing from mid-November to end of December.

However many of these fun things to do in Charleston that you choose, you’re sure to have an amazing vacation!

Need more help or inspiration planning your Charleston trip? Here’s some more resources!

More Charleston area Travel Resources

• Top 5 Best Plantations to Visit near Charleston
• 65+ Bucket List Things to Do in Charleston, SC
• 15 Unique Things to do in Mount Pleasant, a Charleston suburb
• Where to Stay in Charleston {Best Areas for Every Budget}
• 21 Romantic Things to Do in Charleston for Couples
• The 9 Best Beaches in Charleston, SC
• When’s the Best Time to Visit Charleston? {Seasonal Guide}
• 25 Indoor Activities in Charleston {Beat the Rain or Heat!}
• Visit Charles Town Landing State Historic Site {The Original Colony Site!}
• 23 Instagrammable Photo Spots in Charleston
• Visiting the Charleston Tea Garden

Happy travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 38 US states and 17 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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The 12 Best Things to Do and See in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina

With a rich coast and varied landscape, Charleston , South Carolina , is no ordinary beach town. From the marshes on Shem Creek to the shores of Folly Beach, there’s plenty to explore. Travel inwards to King Street or George Street to find some of the best food the southeast US has to offer. And there’s plenty to learn from its antebellum architecture and significant historical monuments. We round up the best.

1. fort sumter.

2. Charleston City Market

3. Joe Riley Waterfront Park

4. boat tours.

Historical Landmark

5. South Carolina Aquarium

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6. The Battery

7. folly beach.

Natural Feature

8. The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

For an illuminating tour to learn about those imprisoned by the British during the American Revolution, book a guide in period costume within the Provost Dungeon walls at South Carolina’s most historic building. However, explore the rest of this landmark, too, as the rooms tell the stories of the ratification of the Constitution and the atrocities of the public slave trade. It’s an excellent place for history buffs. Recommended by Frank Lopez .

9. Nathaniel Russell House Museum

Museum, Historical Landmark

This impeccably restored home from the early 19th century, with manicured gardens and architectural splendor, demonstrates the wealth of those who benefitted the most from America becoming a republic. The attention to reproducing the details of this era is breathtaking. However, visitors will find out that while the owners lived in opulence, Africans were enslaved on this property. Charleston , as a city and in places like this museum , is coming to terms with how it recounts its past to understand its future. Recommended by Frank Lopez.

10. Pineapple Fountain

Architectural Landmark

Overlooking the Charleston Harbor, the famous Pineapple Fountain at the Charleston Waterfront Park is picture-perfect. This modern landmark, unveiled in 1990, is the perfect spot to watch the sunset after a day of wandering around the historic center. On a sweltering evening, surrounded by palm trees and the peaceful sound of cascading water, you are encouraged to splash around – you will see whole families doing so together. Recommended by Frank Lopez.

11. Sites and Insights Tours, Inc

Covering African-American history and the local Gullah Geechee culture, Al Miller leads what may be one of the most hilarious yet poignant tours around historic downtown Charleston . He impresses a passionately black perspective on this city and the African-American contribution that built it, recalling the sacrifices made to create the wealth in the region. His storytelling is as illuminating as it is informative. The tour departs daily from outside the Charleston Visitor Center. Recommended by Frank Lopez.

12. Old Slave Mart Museum

Constructed in 1859, the Old Slave Mart was the last slave auction facility standing in South Carolina, and its remnants house this museum today. There is a lot of information to digest, but it’s the small things – a statistic or an artefact – that will make this place hit home. When it does, it’s impossible to think of Charleston or South Carolina without the horrors of the global slave trade echoing on every street. It’s a powerful experience that you don’t want to miss. Recommended by Frank Lopez.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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20 Free Things to Do In Charleston, SC in 2024

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on May 13, 2024
• Published on February 6, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

Explore Charleston, SC Series

This article is part of the Charleston, South Carolina series. Click the button to read more articles, itineraries, and travel guides in the series.

Hotels, restaurants, and parking. Charleston is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. But a weekend getaway can quickly drain your bank account. Fortunately, there are many free things to do – and some of these are the most iconic places to visit in Charleston.

Walking is one of the best ways to explore the city’s architecture and history. From the historic Battery to the charming Rainbow Row, exploring Charleston by foot is free and fun. Go for a short drive to Mount Pleasant for even more scenic walks and a free national park site.

My first visit to Charleston was in 2010. It was an overcast August day. The only place I visited was Waterfront Park. Years later, I realized this was my favorite place in Charleston.

I love taking guided tours, visiting museums, and taking scenic boat rides. But when my travel budget ran out, I switched to the free things to do. Charleston has as many free things to do and places to go as it does award-winning restaurants and historic attractions.

That’s why it took me ten years to visit every place on this list. So, browse through my list of free things to do and leave me a comment below with the one you’d enjoy the most.

How to use this map | Click the icon in the top-left corner to open the Map Legend, then click on any of the legend items to display more information. If you have a Google account, click the (very faint) star at the end of the map’s name to save this map to your account, then access the map from your smartphone during your trip.

The southern tip was mainly underwater when Charleston developed on the peninsula in the late 1600s. During low tide, thousands of brilliant white oyster shells sparkled in the sunset. The locals dubbed it White Point.

In 1838, Mayor Robert Hayne announced an ambitious plan to backfill the point and build a public park. White Point Garden was completed in 1852.

Read More | Fun Things to Do in the South of Broad Neighborhood in Charleston, SC

Walk the gravel paths beneath the shade of giant oak trees. Visit the Bandstand in the park’s center, a gift from Martha Carrington, who once lived in a nearby home. Look for one of the park’s many statues, like the Little Dancer Girl by sculptor William Newman Hirsch.

Info | 2 Murray Boulevard, Charleston, SC 29401

The Battery offers a commanding view of the harbor at the peninsula’s southern tip. In the distance, Fort Sumter stands like a centurion at the harbor’s entrance. Even closer is the often-forgotten Castle Pinckney on a tiny island.

Read More | How to Visit the Battery in Charleston and the History of the Fortified Seawall

The Battery consists of the High Battery Seawall and Low Battery Seawall. Building the high wall took over one hundred years and four attempts. The low seawall was started in 1836 when Mayor Robert Hayne announced an ambitious plan to backfill the end of the peninsula and build a public park.

Parking along Murray Boulevard is free but limited to two hours. And, of course, it’s free to walk along the Battery from the point of the peninsula to the Historic Charleston Foundation.

A one-block section of East Bay Street, known as Rainbow Row , is one of Charleston’s most iconic and visited destinations. The row houses were built between 1740 and 1792 for the bustling merchant business at the wharves across the street. The bottom floors were used as office space supporting the merchants, while the upper floors were residences for the business owners.

Read More | How to Visit (and the History Behind) the Iconic Rainbow Row in Charleston, SC

The Civil War caused significant damage to the city and ended the economy of the South. The houses along Rainbow Row were left to ruins, falling into further disrepair into the early 1900s. The city announced plans to demolish the entire row of houses. With an eye for historic architectural preservation, Susan Pringle Frost took out a personal loan and purchased several of the homes to save them from demolition.

Several years later, Dorothy Porcher Legge purchased 97-101 East Bay Street and began a renovation. She restored the double house into the original single home and kept 99-101 for her own residence. Legge chose to paint the homes shades of a Colonial Caribbean scheme, and a legend was born in Charleston.

Info | 83-107 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401

Churches were a vital part of colonial Charleston . Shortly after the settlement moved to the peninsula in 1680, a congregation formed at the present location of Saint Michael’s Church. When the congregation outgrew the church, a new church was built at Saint Phillip’s in 1723.

But by 1761, the congregation once again outgrew the church. So, the congregation split, half returning to the original site and building the present Saint Michael’s Church.

President George Washington visited Charleston in 1791 during his Southern Tour after the Revolutionary War . While visiting the city, he worshipped at Saint Michael’s Church. Visitors can enter the church during non-service times and see a plaque noting the pew box where Washington sat.

Info | 71 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401 | 843-723-0603 | www.stmichaelschurch.net

The Adamesque-style Charleston City Hall was completed in 1804 in the early days of the United States. The building was designed by noted Charleston architect Gabriel Manigault. The building was initially intended as a bank, but in 1818, the bank failed, and the building became the home of the city’s government.

The ground floor features one of the few public restrooms in Charleston and a small museum. The second-floor council chamber is open for visitors when not in use.

Info | 80 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401 | 843-577-6970 | www.charleston-sc.gov

National Park Week 2024

Learn about the annual celebration of the National Park System and read my travel guides to national park units across the country.

Behind Charleston City Hall, Washington Square was dedicated to General George Washington during the centennial celebration of Cornwallis’ surrender at Yorktown. Since then, several monuments and memorials about the Revolutionary War have been installed in the public park.

A bronze plaque on the brick wall surrounding part of the square is dedicated to Francis Salvador, the first Jewish casualty of the Revolutionary War. He died during the Cherokee War of 1776 when his unit was ambushed near the Cherokee town of Seneca.

A statue dedicated to Elizabeth Hutchinson Jackson draws attention to President Andrew Jackson’s mother. Shortly after Andrew and his older brother, Robert, were freed from British captivity in Camden, Elizabeth traveled to Charleston to tend to the prisoners of war held on barges. She contracted a deadly illness during work and was unceremoniously buried in an unmarked grave outside the city.

In 1999, the Statue of George Washington was unveiled. Designed by sculptor John N. Michel, the statue depicts Washington with a walking cane as he appeared during his 1791 visit to Charleston . The bronze plaque on the brick base details the president’s life during the Revolutionary War and his visit to Charleston during his Southern Tour.

Waterfront Park is home to the iconic Pineapple Fountain, the most photographed spot in Charleston . The churning fountain is frequently a backdrop for selfies and professional portraits alike. But it’s not the only thing to do in the charming park.

Go for a walk beneath the sprawling oak trees, where you’ll find niches of park benches perfect for a break. Lounge on the comfortable lawn with a good book or to-go meal from one of the local delis on East Bay Street. Stroll along the pier to the end overlooking the Cooper River with a front-row view of the USS Yorktown , a World War II-era aircraft carrier on display at the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum .

Read More | Strolling Through Waterfront Park in Charleston, South Carolina

The Gateway Walk is a scenic path between Meeting Street and Archdale Street, passing through several properties and an alleyway. The path opened during the city’s 250th anniversary in 1930. It was named after a series of wrought iron gates visitors had to pass through.

The path was the first civic project of The Garden Club of Charleston. Several flower gardens and beautiful displays along the path make it one of the most scenic walks in the city.

The Gateway Walk begins next to the Gibbes Museum of Art on Meeting Street. It passes behind the museum and beside the Charleston Library Society, crossing King Street. Then, the path traverses an alleyway into the churchyard behind the Unitarian Church, ending on Archdale Street.

When the Revolutionary War came to South Carolina, the northern boundary of Charleston was Calhoun Street. A fortified wall was built across the neck of the peninsula just beyond the city’s border to protect it from the inevitable British invasion. A small piece of the wall – the Horn Work – remains in the park today.

The public square was named after Revolutionary War hero General Francis Marion – also known as the Swamp Fox for his uncanny ability to attack the British and disappear into the swamps.

Marion Square is an excellent place to lounge with something to read from nearby Blue Bicycle Books . Festivals frequently dominate the square throughout the year, like the Charleston Wine + Food Festival in March, the Piccolo Spoleto Festival in late spring, and the annual weekend Charleston Farmers Market .

The Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park preserves the forts where the Civil War began in 1861. The only way to visit Fort Sumter is to buy a ticket for a boat ride, and visitors to Fort Moultrie must pay an admission fee.

But in Charleston, the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center is free.

Read More | Exploring Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park

The education center is beside the South Carolina Aquarium on a wharf overlooking the Cooper River. The education center has a nice museum to explore the local history of the Civil War and learn about Fort Sumter’s construction. The center includes public restrooms and a gift shop with souvenirs and snacks.

Info | 340 Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401 | 843-577-0242 | www.nps.gov/fosu

After the previous bridges crossing the Cooper River were declared “functionally obsolete” in 1979, planning began on the epic replacement. The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, a 2.5-mile-long cable-stayed bridge, opened in 2006 after five years of construction.

But a local tragedy changed the initial design.

In 2004, Garrett Wonders was struck by a car and killed while bicycling across the narrow Cooper River Bridge. The United States Navy ensign was training for the upcoming Olympic Trials. A grassroots movement quickly developed, urging the bridge’s engineers to include a pedestrian and bicycling path on the Ravenel Bridge.

Wonders Way is a 12-foot-wide multi-use pedestrian path on the south side of the bridge. Visitors can enter the path in downtown Charleston on East Bay Street or from the Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. It’s a great place for a vigorous walk, enjoying spectacular sunset views, and watching enormous cargo ships pass beneath.

Read More | Take a Walk on Wonders Way Across the Ravenel Bridge in Charleston, SC

When the Cooper River Bridge was demolished, the footprint was converted into the Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. Parking is free, and there is no admission charge for walking along the fishing pier beneath the towering Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge.

A visitor center has information about Mount Pleasant and public restrooms. The War Memorial is dedicated to veterans of all wars from South Carolina. The fishing pier stretches about 1,000 feet into the Cooper River, with many benches where you can sit and watch giant cargo ships travel up and down the river.

Info | 99 Harry M. Hallman Jr Boulevard, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 | 843-884-8517 | www.tompsc.com/Facilities/Facility/Details/35

Shem Creek Park is one of the most beautiful places in Mount Pleasant to stretch your legs – and it’s almost entirely free. There is no admission charge to walk the lengthy boardwalk, but you’ll have to pay for parking.

The boardwalk crosses a salt marsh along Shem Creek, ending at a covered shelter with a view of the Cooper River. You can see the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and downtown Charleston from the shelter.

The boardwalk is a popular place for fishing, sightseeing, and kayaking. If you’re there when one of the fishing boats returns from sea, you might see dolphins and pelicans trailing behind.

Before the Revolutionary War , a simple wooden plank bridge floating on barrels connected Mount Pleasant to Sullivan’s Island. In 1898, a trolley bridge was built across the narrow waterway to provide access to the island. The trolley bridge was replaced by a concrete bridge for cars in 1927 – the Pitt Street Bridge.

When it was replaced by a more modern swing bridge, the site was converted into a public park. Only a portion of the bridge’s supports remain. A wooden boardwalk was built across the spans, providing a place to fish or enjoy the scenery.

The park features a stunning view of downtown Charleston across the Cooper River. Several benches and a large grassy area invite people to stay awhile. And why not? It’s free.

Info | 972 Pitt Street, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Charleston is renowned for gorgeous architecture, early American history, and world-class food. But less than an hour from the cobblestone streets, visitors can dip their feet in the sand, catch a wave, and bask in the sun on one of the area’s beaches.

Isle of Palms is a chic experience at the beach, and Folly Beach features a sprawling waterfront park and fishing pier. But in the middle, Sullivan’s Island is a peaceful getaway with a national park site, many local restaurants, and one of the free public beach accesses in Charleston.

Station 12 Public Beach Access is beside the historic Fort Moultrie, part of the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historic Park . The parking lots fill up quickly on summer days and weekends, with capacity for only about two dozen passenger vehicles. A long beach stretches toward the end of the island, where visitors can lounge in the sun, go fishing in the surf, and watch dolphins swim by at sunset.

Read More | Leave the Cobblestone Streets Behind for One of These Beaches Near Charleston

The Charles Pinckney National Historic Site preserves all that remains of the family plantation where the “Forgotten Founder” lived in the 1700s. After his capture by the British in 1780 during the Revolutionary War , Charles Pinckney was exiled to the plantation in Mount Pleasant. After the war, he was instrumental in drafting the United States Constitution, creating the Pinckney Draft.

Read More | Learn the Story of the Forgotten Founder at the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site in Mount Pleasant, SC

The national historic site is free to visit. The house sits on the foundation of the original plantation home. Inside, the rooms feature exhibits about the Pinckney family, the drafting of the Constitution, and slavery on the plantation.

Info | 1254 Long Point Road, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 | 843-881-5516 | www.nps.gov/chpi

Magnolia Cemetery opened in 1850 near the present-day Charleston end of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. The historic cemetery is the final burial ground for many notable figures in Charleston’s history, like the crew of the H.L. Hunley.

Visitors can explore the cemetery during business hours. The pyramid-shaped crypt of William Smith is one of the most interesting burial plots in the sprawling cemetery. Blue herons and egrets frequently occupy a large pond in the cemetery’s center. The cemetery is a gorgeous place to explore by foot – if you enjoy that sort of exploration.

Info | 70 Cunnington Avenue, Charleston, SC 29405 | 843-722-8638 | www.magnoliacemetery.net

The West Ashley Greenway ( bookmark on AllTrails ) is a 15.7-mile pedestrian and bicycling rail-to-trail. The trail runs parallel to U.S. Highway 17 through the neighborhood west of downtown Charleston . The eastern terminus is near several hotels along the Ashley River.

In 2023, construction began on a cable-stayed pedestrian bridge across the Ashley River. The bridge will connect the West Ashley Greenway with downtown Charleston, making riding a bicycle to explore the city easy.

It’s 500 years old, 65 feet tall, and covers 17,000 square feet. The Angel Oak Tree is an astounding natural attraction in the Charleston area. And what’s even more astounding is that the city owned property is free of charge to visit.

Read More | How to See the Angel Oak Tree in Charleston – One of the Oldest Trees in the Southeast

400,000 people wander beneath the sprawling limbs of the ginormous oak tree every year. Surrounded by an unsightly chain link fence, the property features picnic tables and a gift shop with souvenirs and snacks.

Info | 3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island, SC 29455 | 843-559-3496 | www.charleston-sc.gov/153/Angel-Oak

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » South Carolina (SC) » 15 Best Things to Do in North Charleston (SC)

15 Best Things to Do in North Charleston (SC)

North Charleston in South Carolina is a vibrant and dynamic part of the United States which has long been famed for its warm hospitality. There are a vast array of things to do if you visit North Charleston, and just some of these gems include parks, gardens, and historically significant sites.

In addition to these, North Charleston has a reputation as something of a cultural hub in the region and some of the finest and most exciting cultural events in the United States are held in the city. This means that you will find art galleries, theatres, and museums galore on a visit here.

Lets explore the best things to do in North Charleston :

1. Fire Museum

Opened in 2007, the Fire Museum aims to explain the history of the fire service in Charleston as well as provide students with an interactive experience that teaches them about fire safety. The museum is set up to resemble a real fire station and there are amazing touches here such as the fire prevention theater which also features live smoke. There are 20 preserved antique fire vehicles at the museum as well as period firefighting equipment that will take you on a journey through the history of fire fighting. What makes this such a unique facility is the hands-on approach to many of the exhibits such as the play area with a functional fireman’s pole, and this is a fascinating place to come while you are in North Charleston.

2. Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial

The Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial was set up to honor the veterans of the city of North Charleston who have served their country over the years. The naval base was in operation for 95 years before finally closing in 1996 and as such this area is steeped in tradition. The walls of the memorial are covered in stories of the history that was made here, and there is a delightful stream that passes through the memorial and is said to represent sailors walking across a gangplank. Things to look out for here include the signature statue of the “Lone Sailor” which is 7 feet tall and which faces the water as a constant tribute. There are also bronze pieces that represent a submarine, a landing craft, and a destroyer.

3. Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park is known for being a favorite outdoor destination for both visitors and locals alike in the North Charleston area. The park is nestled on the banks of the Cooper River and is also located next to a historic area that still features some of the homes of the former naval officers of the Charleston Naval Base. The park is filled with majestic oak trees and there are glorious vistas of the river in the distance. You will also find rambling meadows here as well as a Performance Pavilion where live music shows and other events take place. It is also the location where the art and sculpture competition in North Charleston is displayed annually and as you walk along the river front you will also see a range of art installations that are part of the project.

4. City Gallery

For some art in North Charleston, head to the North Charleston City Gallery where you will find pieces by local, national, and even international artists. The exhibits here work on rotation and are changed on a monthly basis, so the collections are always fresh. As well as paintings you can expect prints, photographs, and even things like jewelry, and some of these items are also for sale in the gallery on-site store so that you can take home a piece of the art work here as a memento of your trip.

5. North Charleston Coliseum

The North Charleston Museum is the place to come for some live entertainment in the city and this events venue can seat an impressive 13,000 spectators at one time. Popular events here include musical concerts comedy nights, family shows, and even sporting events that take in performers from all of the greater North Charleston area. If you like hockey then the North Charleston Coliseum is also the home of the South Carolina Stingrays who play here regularly, so try and check out a fast-paced and exciting game if you are in town.

6. Down South Fishing

Down South Fishing offers you the chance to get out on the water in North Charleston and take in the best of the aquatic life in South Carolina. The company offers boat trips that either includes fishing expeditions or sightseeing opportunities, and you can also come for cruises. There are night trips available to try and spot some of the sharks in the area as well as dolphin watching trips to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Also available are eco tours that will teach you about the underwater environment here as well as photography excursions.

7. North Charleston Farmers Market

The North Charleston Farmers Market from May to October and sets up at the Felix C Davis Community Center. The market is dedicated to selling fresh produce from the region and you will find delicious fruits and vegetables here as well as other food items like local baked goods. There are also arts and crafts items sold here that were made in the region and the farmers market has also teamed up with the Cultural Arts Department so that there are featured musical performances every week to enjoy as part of the experience.

8. Monkey Joe’s

If you are visiting North Charleston with younger guests then head Monkey Joe’s for some indoor fun. Here you will find a huge play area that includes trampoline equipment, a bounce house, obstacle courses, and games areas that are perfect for both younger and older children. There is even a special area dedicated to toddlers who also want to get in on the fun. You can just walk-in without making an appointment, so this is also a great venue if the weather suddenly turns and you are looking for some indoor entertainment.

9. Wescott Golf Club

Located in the low country in North Charleston, the Wescott Golf Club is set among leafy gardens, historically significant plantations, and is close to idyllic beaches in the area. There is a 27 hole course here that sits among oak trees and the natural wetlands of Wescott. The courses here are covered in Bermuda grass and as such are perfect to play on all year round, so no matter when you come you will always be able to fit in a game.

10. Noisette Creek

Noisette Creek is located next to Riverfront Park in North Charleston and is a great place to come if you want to take in the waters of the Cooper River as well as enjoy this peaceful residential neighborhood. Noisette Creek sits near the former naval yard in North Charleston and for years the waters here were heavily polluted by this industry before experiencing a revival in recent years thanks to a community cleanup project. Nowadays therefore you can come here and experience a new version of Noisette Creek Preserve.

11. Denmark Vesey Monument

The Denmark Vesey Monument is a uniquely important historical and cultural relic in the city, and sits in the center of Hampton Park. The bronze sculpture is dedicated to the abolitionist Denmark Vesey, a former slave who bought his freedom and campaigned tirelessly for the abolition of slavery in the United States. Vesey was finally executed for insurrection and this life-sized sculpture now stands in his honor as a permanent reminder of this period of history.

12. Fort Sumter

One of the most historically significant forts during the Civil War, Fort Sumter is an important national landmark in the North Charleston area. Built in the 19th century, but left incomplete, Fort Sumter is actually a sea fort and as such you will have to take a boat or ferry to the island on which the fort sits. The ferry ride departs from the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center and takes about 30 minutes, although is closed if the weather and seas are too rough. At the fort you can expect to learn all about the Civil War and the role of this strategic location and the daily activities of Sumter Fort.

13. H.L. Hunley Submarine

North Charleston is the place where you can visit the H.L. Hunley Submarine, a Confederate vessel that played a role in the American Civil War. The remains of the submarine are said to be those of one of the oldest surviving submarines in the entire world, so don’t miss the chance to come and visit the H.L. Hunley if you are in the area. The submarine was first launched in 1863, so is steeped in history and is one of the most historically significant naval craft in the United States.

14. Indian Mound Trail

Indian Mound Trail is found in Edisto Island and there is an interpretive center here that is free for the public to use to learn about the flora and fauna of this part of the United States. You can bike or walk around the trail to take in the graceful vistas here across the water, and there are also community events regularly held here, so make sure to ask what’s on when you visit.

15. Wannamaker County Park

Sprawling across an impressive 1,000 acres, Wannamaker County Park is covered in woodland and wetland and is known for its waterways which also allow boating. There are picnic areas as well as two miles of trails all over the park, and you will also find pretty open meadows here. There is even a water play area where you can splash around and cool off in the summer heat.

15 Best Things to Do in North Charleston (SC):

• Fire Museum
• Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial
• Riverfront Park
• City Gallery
• North Charleston Coliseum
• Down South Fishing
• North Charleston Farmers Market
• Monkey Joe’s
• Wescott Golf Club
• Noisette Creek
• Denmark Vesey Monument
• Fort Sumter
• H.L. Hunley Submarine
• Indian Mound Trail
• Wannamaker County Park

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