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15 Best Day Trips from Charleston, SC

Founded and named in the honour of Charles II of England, and with a dance named after it, Charleston, South Carolina has several claims to fame which make it worth a visit.

The historic city is undeniably a beautiful place to stay.

Cute cobbled streets interlink colourful colonial houses, and plenty of leafy parks are interspersed throughout the city.

Culture lovers will find fun in its many museums documenting the antebellum era and beyond, while there are loads of great bars and restaurants to placate those who simply want to relax and enjoy their time away.

Stroll along to the port to witness huge cruise ships docking, or visit the theatre to take in a show – there really are options for everyone in this South Carolina gem.

And of course, there are lots of excellent places to visit just a short hop from the city – here are fifteen of the best.

1. Kiawah Island

The home of golf in South Carolina, Kiawah Island is a must-visit for any avid fans, or for those who want the chance to kick back and relax while the other half traipses around the course.

With over 90 holes of golf to be played in this relatively small area, you will find plenty to entertain keen golfers.

If this isn’t your style, there are also plenty of luxury spa options available.

If you have some time outside of the sporting activities, wander down to find Kiawah’s beautiful beaches, which fringe the island with golden sand.

2. Beaufort

A typical Old South city can be found in Beaufort, located around an hour and a half from Charleston.

This is a great day trip for history lovers; the town played a significant part in the Civil War, leaving many interesting sites for visitors to take a look at.

There are several museums around town, largely focused on the same theme.

Day trippers might also enjoy taking a tour of one of the numerous old mansions, left as a remnant of times gone by.

If such serious pursuits don’t take your fancy, you can always stop off at an entirely un-serious spot – the Kazoo Factory.

3. Savannah

Savannah is Charleston’s sister city, across the state border in Georgia.

There are many similarities between the two cities, but Savannah is definitely worthy of the trip for its prime location along the Savannah River, or simply the chance for a change of scene.

Stroll along the water’s edge, where the main strip of bars and restaurants is located, and perhaps grab a bite to eat.

On a sunny day, make sure to visit one of the verdant parks scattered throughout the city, a key feature of the city’s original design.

4. Wadmalaw Island

This island feels like worlds away from Charleston, despite actually being very close – at just over half an hour’s drive.

It is tranquillity personified, with stretches of country land covering the island and traditional farms still commonplace.

Take a tour of the Charleston Tea Plantation and Deep Water Vineyard while you’re around the area; the tea plantation is home to the only American-grown tea in the world, while the vineyard is the only one in the state.

Otherwise, just spend some time wandering round and soaking in the atmosphere, it’s always good to get away for a while.

5. Hilton Head

Another great day trip spot for golf enthusiasts can be found in Hilton Head, though here there are perhaps more alternative options.

There is certainly a beachy feel at Hilton Head, with beachside activities like volleyball, day cruises out on the boats, and deep sea fishing all readily available.

Stay for the evening to catch some live music from one of the beach bars.

And then, of course, there’s the golf – which is well worthy of the two-hour drive to get there.

6. Brookgreen Gardens

The sculpture garden at Brookgreen is a fascinating sight and has plenty to entertain both kids and adults.

Every local will remember their first visit here, and it’s a great spot for a laid-back trip out for the day.

Founded by the wealthy Huntington family in 1932, there are countless sculptures to be spotted throughout the garden and also the option to take a boat ride through the plantation.

There’s over 9000-acres of land in total, encompassing the sculpture garden and wildlife preserve, so you certainly won’t find yourself running out of places to explore.

7. McClellanville

The cutest fishing village around can be found around an hour’s drive from Charleston down the US-17. The main attraction here is the freshly caught seafood, which can either be bought to take home with you, or cooked up to perfection in one of the great, no-frills village restaurants.

Sit on the docks to watch the fishermen unload their catch or simply spend some time wandering the sea front.

8. Edisto Island

Another barrier island well worth the trip is Edisto Island, once home to plantations and slave owners – both of which are long gone.

The ruins of the main plantations on the island, Sea Cloud and Bleak Hall, are now encompassed in the wildlife area of Botany Bay.

Edisto Island is a gorgeous place to simply spend a day of no-guilt relaxation, with the atmosphere of times gone by and the three-mile beachfront stretching across the horizon.

The old-fashioned houses along the front make for a charming backdrop.

9. Georgetown

The historic city of Georgetown is the third oldest in Carolina, therefore has plenty of interesting stories from the past to be discovered.

Soak up the history in one of the museums, such as the South Carolina Maritime Museum or the intriguing Rice Museum.

If history isn’t your thing, then take a stroll along the pretty Harborwalk by the water front, or even grab a place on a boat and explore out to sea for the day.

There are plenty of excellent bars and restaurants, with everything from typical Southern dishes to craft beer on offer.

10. Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is the most famous and well-developed resort area along the strip of coastline known as the Grand Strand, and a joyous place to spend a summer’s day away from Charleston.

It’s about two hours’ drive, but well worth it for the opportunity to spend a glorious few hours sunbathing on the beach front, surfing in the gentle waves, or splashing about in the shallows with the kids.

The town is well-equipped to provide anything you could want in terms of food and drinks, and the place is lively all year round.

Head further north or south from downtown if you want to escape the bulk of the crowds, especially in peak season.

11. Columbia

State capitals are always worth a visit, and Columbia is no different.

Especially for those who have an interest in history or politics, Columbia has a lot to offer, from still-present damage left over from the civil war adorning some of the buildings, and the state house standing proud in the middle of the city.

If that’s not your cup of tea, however, you can also pay a visit to Congaree National Park – South Carolina’s only proper national park – for biodiversity and a pleasant afternoon of walking or kayaking.

12. Cottageville

Cottageville provides a unique and extremely fun day trip opportunity for families – a visit to the Bee City Honey Farm.

Kids will love getting the chance to learn how honey is made, from how the bees go about collecting pollen to the process of putting the hive’s hard work into the pot.

It’s an educational day out for everyone and you can purchase some of the delicious, locally-produced honey to take away as a souvenir.

There’s also a miniature train to ride on through the farm.

13. Walterboro

Walterboro is considered the entrance to Low country.

As such, it has a lot that can appeal to tourists.

There’s a wildlife sanctuary, plenty of museums and an excellent farmer’s market open during the summer months.

The highlight of the historic town, however, is certainly its focus on artisanal crafts, which can be found in the state’s Folk Arts and Craft Centre, the South Carolina Artisans Centre.

There are plenty of other shopping opportunities too, including some excellent antique stores.

14. Shem Creek

For all the water-based activities you could ask for, Shem Creek is the answer.

The kids will love this day trip option, owing to the multitude of active options on offer – from kayaking and paddle-boarding to boating.

Dolphins can sometimes be spotted frolicking in the creek, too.

For the adults, there are many good waterfront dining options to be found, and the creek is a great spot for sunset.

At only 45-minutes from Charleston, this trip is a no-brainer.

Suggested tour : Charleston: Shem Creek Culture Tour

15. Francis Beidler Audubon Forest

This forest in Harleyville might not have National Park designation yet, but it still offers day trippers the chance to get back to nature, with less of a crowd.

It’s a swamp-based park filled with dense hardwoods and is home to the largest collection of old-growth cypress and tupelo in the world.

The walks around the forest are boarded to enable visitors to explore deeper into the system than they would otherwise be able to, and there’s plenty of wildlife to be spotted from on high.

15 Best Day Trips from Charleston, SC:

• Kiawah Island
• Wadmalaw Island
• Hilton Head
• Brookgreen Gardens
• McClellanville
• Edisto Island
• Myrtle Beach
• Cottageville
• Francis Beidler Audubon Forest

Charleston, SC   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sam Antonio Photography | Getty Images

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
• 3-Day Itinerary

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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Charleston Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse

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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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Home › Things To Do › Near Charleston

Things To Do Near Charleston, SC

Charleston offers a huge array of historic attractions, beautiful architecture and other things to see and do, and many visitors to the area find no need to look beyond the city itself when planning an itinerary.

Only a few miles outside of Charleston, however, are dozens of rewarding historic sites and spectacular nature spots, from picturesque boneyard beaches to the South’s iconic cypress swamps.

Most of the best things to do near Charleston are accessible by car, but for the more adventurous there are also some barrier island destinations that you will need a boat – or kayak – to access.

Lowcountry highlights not far from Charleston include the impressive sculpture collection and botanical gardens at Brookgreen Gardens; Hunting Island and Huntington Beach State Parks; a series of historic plantations; and the beautiful and wild Capers and Bulls Islands and the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.

See also: – Things to do in Charleston – Plantations near Charleston – Charleston food festivals – Music festivals in Charleston and the lowcountry – Charleston events by month: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December

Historic Attractions

Colonial history, colonial dorchester state historic site.

Summerville, SC – 23 miles, 40 mins

Ruins of a colonial-era trading outpost on the Ashley River, with tabby fort ruins and interpretive history and nature trail. More details

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

Charleston, SC – 7 miles, 20 mins

Site of the original English settlement of Charleston (then Charles Towne), with a 17th-century replica sailing ship, visitor center, history and nature trails, small zoo and occasional special events. More details

Plantations

Boone hall plantation.

Mount Pleasant, SC – 12 miles, 30 mins

Boone Hall Plantation is best known for its beautiful avenue of live oaks, but it also offers house and garden tours, programs on the history of slavery at the plantation, and exhibits on African-American history in the original enslaved people’s cabins. More details

McLeod Plantation Historic Site

James Island, SC – 4 miles, 15 mins

This county-owned plantation on James Island explores the lives of enslaved people, sea island cotton cultivation, and Gullah/Geechee culture before and after the Civil War. More details

Drayton Hall

Charleston, SC – 12 miles, 25 mins

Drayton Hall on the Ashley River is one of the oldest surviving plantation houses in the Charleston area, with tours of the unrestored mansion, self-guided nature trails and special programming. A new visitor center is under construction. More details

Magnolia Plantation

Charleston, SC – 13 miles, 25 mins

Another of Charleston’s Ashley River plantations, this one famed for its beautiful historic gardens. Other attractions include boat tours of the old rice fields and the Audubon Swamp Garden. More details

Middleton Place

Charleston, SC – 16 miles, 30 mins

Charleston’s third surviving Ashley River plantation, with extensive terraced gardens, working stableyards and frequent special events. More details

Charleston Tea Garden

Charleston, SC – 22 miles, 40 mins

For a more modern plantation experience, visit this working tea farm (the only working tea plantation in the country) on picturesque Wadmalaw Island. There is a trolley tour and free factory tour, and many different teas to sample.

More details

Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

McClellanville, SC – 46 miles, 1hr

Colonial-era rice plantation with tours of the historic Georgian-style plantation house, nature trail past former rice fields, and occasional special programs. More details

Hobcaw Barony

Georgetown, SC – 65 miles, 1hr 20 mins

Research reserve on the site of an 18th-century plantation, with bus tours of the plantation’s history and ecology, boat tours, ecology programs and a visitor center. More details

Arts & Culture

South carolina artisans center.

Walterboro, SC – 48 miles, 1hr 10 mins

Retail center displaying and selling folk art and craft items made by 300+ artists from across South Carolina. More details

Brookgreen Gardens

Murrells Inlet, SC – 80 miles, 1hr 40 mins

The 9000+ acre Brookgreen Gardens is one of the lowcountry’s most popular attractions, with a huge sculpture collection set amidst beautiful botanical gardens, plus indoor art galleries, a zoo featuring animals native to the area, nature trails and history tours of the former Oaks Plantation. More details

Wildlife, Nature & Outdoors Activities

Johns Island, SC – 12 miles, 30 mins

This beautiful natural landmark on Johns Island is one of the oldest live oak trees in the southeast, reckoned to be many hundreds of years old. There is a small park and gift shop at the site. More details

Charleston Area Beaches

There are several beaches within a short drive of downtown Charleston. Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms are the most accessible, each offering several miles of beachfront and a variety of watersports and other beach activities.

Caw Caw Interpretive Center

Ravenel, SC – 17 miles, 30 mins

Wildlife preserve with several miles of trails, wetland boardwalks and interpretive exhibits, on the site of former rice fields cultivated by enslaved people. More details

Avian Conservation Center & Center for Birds of Prey

Awendaw, SC – 19 miles, 30 mins

Avian wildlife center with dozens of birds of prey from around the world, flight demonstrations, and special programs focused on particular bird species, photography, and other topics. More details

Charleston Zipline Adventures

Awendaw, SC – 20 miles, 30mins

Charleston Zipline Adventures offers a aerial zipline course through the forest and a separate zipline course for younger children. More details

Capers Island

20 miles from Charleston

One of the Charleston area’s more accessible boat-only undeveloped barrier islands, with frequent boat and kayak tours available from Isle of Palms and vicinity. Capers Island’s boneyard beach is very popular with photographers, and the island also offers excellent bird-watching, plus fishing, beach hiking, wilderness camping and other outdoor activities. See details of tours to Capers Island

Francis Marion National Forest

Various recreation sites north east of Charleston – 20-50 miles, 35 mins to 1hr 20 mins

This 260,000 acre forest not far from Charleston offers hiking, kayaking, biking and horseback trails, camping, boating and other outdoor activities in forest, swamp and marsh environments. More details

Cypress Gardens

Moncks Corner, SC – 29 miles, 45 mins

Beautiful swamp gardens, with swamp boat tours, nature trails, reptile center and butterfly house. More details

Edisto Island Serpentarium

Edisto Island, SC – 43 miles, 1hr

Reptile center with indoor and outdoor displays of a variety of snakes, alligators, turtles and other reptilian wildlife from the United States and around the world. More details

Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve

Edisto Island, SC – 44 miles, 1hr 5 mins

Botany Bay is best known for its stunning boneyard beach, but it also offers plantation ruins, nature trails, and a self-guided driving tour of the preserve’s historic sites. More details

Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge

43 miles, 1hr 10 mins

66,000-acre wildlife refuge comprising barrier island, salt marsh, beach and creek environments, the historic Cape Romain Lighthouse, a visitor center, and the wild Bulls Island, accessible by ferry or kayak. More details

Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary

Walterboro, SC – 50 miles, 1hr 10 mins

This 600-acre wildlife preserve offers a unique opportunity to see a braided swamp landscape (a network of intertwining creeks), with boardwalks through the hardwood forest swamp, hiking and biking trails, and paddling trails. A visitor center is under construction. More details

Huntington Beach State Park

Murrells Inlet, SC – 79 miles, 1hr 35 mins

This popular state park near Myrtle Beach offers beautiful beach and marsh environments, abundant birdlife, nature trails, frequent special programs focused on the area’s ecology, camping facilities, and Atalaya, a Moorish-inspired historic home. More details

Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island, SC – 88 miles, 2hrs

Miles of beaches and marsh and maritime forest environments are the main attraction at this popular barrier island park, with several miles of trails and boardwalks, a visitable historic lighthouse, and camping facilities. More details

Congaree National Park

Hopkins, SC – 106 miles, 2hrs

Congaree National Park preserves the largest area of bottomland hardwood forest in the southeast, with 40+ miles of hiking trails, a 2.4 mile boardwalk trail, a 15 mile canoe/kayak trail, and campsites. More details

© Melanie K Jones 2024

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The 21 Best Things to Do in Charleston

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

People gravitate to Charleston for many reasons: its buzzing restaurants , eclectic art scene, curb-appeal homes, and proximity to the water—not to mention the rich history and overall southern charm. Those components all combine to make it one of our readers' favorite cities year after year. Here, we've combined them all into our list of the best activities and the top spots to hit the next time you're there—spanning old and new, we've got all the essentials that will ensure you remember your trip to this Lowcountry gem, pay homage to its past, and have plenty of souvenirs to bring home. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, you'll never run out of new and exciting activities to try in this city—from fine art museums and live music to the meals and hotels not to miss. These are the best things to do in Charleston.

Read our complete Charleston travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated since its original publish date.

Gibbes Museum of Art Arrow

This stately Beaux Arts building in the heart of downtown Charleston houses a permanent art collection spanning four centuries. You can browse the museum shop on the ground floor at no cost (a nice way to duck the weather), or pay to head upstairs for an immersive view of Charleston’s artistic past and present. The Gibbes is not a huge museum: you could walk through it in under an hour, but it’s better to linger, to savor your favorites, and to read the insightful commentary. Not all paintings are Charleston-centric in subject matter, but as a whole they tell a Charleston story: a pastel portrait dated 1711 created by America’s first known female artist; aristocratic oils depicting Colonial residents in silk and lace finery; ornate silver monogrammed teapots hammered with palmetto imagery for a wealthy Antebellum patron; glazed stoneware hand-signed by its enslaved maker. There are watercolors and etchings from Charleston’s 1920s and 1930s artistic “renaissance,” sweetgrass pieces fashioned by Gullah weavers, and the vivid and surreal paintings of celebrated local artist Jonathan Green. 

Bluegrass Brunch at High Cotton Arrow

Brunch at High Cotton restaurant is a hot ticket—reservations recommended, unless you manage to beat the church crowd and stampede there early. It’s a convivial place divided into four separate dining areas: a cozy, darkly paneled bar where the bluegrass players set up, a rear “French Quarter” room opening to a patio, the more formal “East Bay Room” (the quietest seating, musically), and the grand, sunny main dining room surrounded by street-facing windows. The food is a smorgasbord of southern flavor—fittingly, as brunch is should be an indulgent ritual–and highlights include crispy fried oysters, buttermilk fried chicken over Belgian waffles, and the like. Meat lovers go for steak & eggs (twin filet mignon) or the burger with sunny-side-up egg and béarnaise. Bring your family (cinnamon rolls and beignets for kids). Bring your friends. Tap your toes to the upright bass, and feel your mood lift.

Self-Guided Walking Tour Arrow

Sure, you could hop on a horse carriage , or into a pedicab, or join an official walking tour, all excellent ways to explore the city. But sometimes you want to explore at will, without a historical lecture in your ear, and the best way to do that is on foot. This is a walking tour that clocks in at just under two miles in length, and it's a must-do for anyone visiting Charleston. Start at Waterfront Park , whose pier juts out into the harbor, to scope out the original Colonial city wall, then make your way to the East Bay, where you might just catch a regatta in progress. Ogle over the live oaks at White Point Gardens, and walk south to north on Legare (pronounced Lah-GREE) for the best vantage points of what are arguably Charleston's most beautiful homes—and stop at 14 Legare, the "Pineapple Gates House" for pics. End at Goat.Sheep.Cow , where you can have them arrange a picnic spread that you can take to nearby Washington Square, and feast on expertly curated cheese under the shade of a live oak tree.

Center for Birds of Prey Arrow

Up the coastal highway sits an extraordinary sanctuary for birds of prey, a non-profit that takes in injured eagles, falcons, owls, hawks, pelicans, etc., treats and releases them. Clearly the staff and volunteers have hearts of gold and perform an essential service, but luckily for the public, it’s also a captivating place to visit. Eighteen miles northeast of Charleston, you pull off at the giant metal bird sign, where a winding dirt road leads you back, deep into the maritime forest, to the preserve. You learn about threats to different avian species worldwide, about breeding and reintroduction programs, about migratory instincts and built-in sonar and other trivia. Meanwhile, wild red-tailed hawks and bald eagles pass high overhead. Education Director Stephen Schabel says that his record for bald eagle sightings in a single day was forty!—and that if he doesn’t spot at least eight, he’s doing something wrong.

Two Sisters Tours Arrow

These two sisters, whose family has been in Charleston for seven generations, know the city better than almost anyone. Mary Helen Dantzler and Therese Smythe retired from careers as lawyers, then followed in their mother’s footsteps (a venerable tour guide herself). If you book a tour, you’ll get one sister or the other. They don’t work in tandem. They tried that once, but you know how sibling dynamics go. So they work solo. You can join a group tour for $25 per person by signing up on their website, or call to arrange a private tour for a higher fee. We gathered in Washington Square for roughly a two-hour walk through the cobblestone streets and hidden alleys of Charleston. For a balanced, local’s introduction to Charleston, from grand houses to former slave quarters, this is it.

The Caviar Bar at Zero George Arrow

Boutique hotel Zero George is known for the epicurean wizardry of its executive chef, Vinson Petrillo. But while many come for the tasting menu at the hotel’s ground floor restaurant, The Caviar Bar is something separate and exclusive. By reservation only, you’ll walk through wrought-iron gates into the garden courtyard, up the steps of the beautifully restored 1804 house, to an open piazza, where you are led to your marble-topped table. Flickering votives, ornate banisters, birdsong, palm trees and maples, all set the scene, while soft jazz crooners set the mood. This is an impress-your-mate, impress-your-date spot for sure: cozy, posh, romantic, refined. With only two seatings per evening, you share the veranda with a handful of other well-dressed couples, some of them guests of the hotel, maybe even the devoted local couple who comes weekly. It’s not really intended for the pre-theater crowd (even though the Gaillard Auditorium is a block away) because you really shouldn’t rush the experience to make a show on-time

High Wire Distilling Arrow

High Wire, Charleston's first distillery since prohibition, has been drawing people in with its distinctive spirits and  cypress-paneled tasting room, and a tour is a fantastic way to take in everything it has to offer. Each tour is limited to 16 people, and they fill frequently. You’ll get a close look at a succession of custom mills and gleaming tanks, including a giant copper pot still with a Jules Verne-style window. You’ll learn the science behind milling, mashing, heating, agitating, fermenting, and distilling—the almost magical process that turns liquid to vapor and then into liquid again. For the grand finale, you get to sample the artisanal hooch in the tasting room, either as flights or in cocktails designed for you to replicate easily back home. For a full tour of the distillery floor, reservations are highly recommended. Pro tip: walk-ins can opt for an abbreviated tour from the comfort of their bar stool.

Afternoon Tea at Hotel Bennett Arrow

This is a grand hotel, so naturally there are multiple restaurant concepts onsite for fresh variety. La Pâtisserie is a sunny and gorgeous space for morning coffee, tea, smoothies, and pastries by French Pastry Chef Rémy Fünfrock, plus daily artisanal sandwiches and desserts galore (try the strawberry sponge cake). Rooftop lounge Fiat Lux is great for afternoon and evening cocktails (both spirited and non) plus charcuterie boards, elevated nibbles, and some pretty amazing rosemary duck fat fries. Perhaps the most over-the-top experience is Hotel Bennett’s weekend Afternoon Tea (by reservation), a fantastic ritual that unfolds in the ground floor oval Camellias Bar, named so because you are literally surrounded by glittering wallpapered accents of giant camellias. A jacketed server pours flights of sparkling rosé at the flower-studded bar, then walks across softly-hued pink marble to deliver towers of savory canapés to each table, followed by another tower of sweets prepared by the aforementioned French pastry chef—all washed down with your choice of a wide selection of leaf teas and herbal infusions. Plus the bar moonlights as a swanky destination for champagne, oysters, and caviar.

Cypress Gardens Arrow

Those of you who remember the romantic rowing scene from The Notebook , or the haunting swamp hideout for Revolutionary hero Francis Marion in Mel Gibson’s The Patriot , have already previewed this singular locale. Hollywood location scouts choose Cypress Gardens for its wildly picturesque blackwater swamp, but also for its well-managed accessibility. For $5, you can let a local guide do the paddling for you as he points out wildlife and historical trivia in a wonderfully thick southern accent. Or you can opt to paddle yourself; just follow the little white arrows that suggest a route around the vast bog. Don’t worry if your boat bounces off a cypress tree or two (it’s hard to steer clear of them all). Duck as you pass under two walking bridges, and keep your eyes out for seasonal birds, alligators, and turtles who have crawled out to sun themselves. Before or after you boat, you should walk at least part of the 3.5-miles of trails encircling the water. It’s beautiful any time of year—each month features different fascinations: camellia blooms and bald eagles in winter, azaleas and wild violets in spring, lily pads and booming frog choruses and droning cicadas in summer, rust-colored foliage and screech owls in fall, plus the egrets and otters.

The Charleston Museum Arrow

As museums go, there’s nothing stuffy or old-school about this one, even though it just celebrated its 250th year of existence. The formidable modern structure houses relics from Charleston’s past, and weaves a story from the 18th century to the present. Visitors wander through history, both cultural and natural, listening to recordings by locals. It’s a great place to ground yourself, and to catch your breath in the museum’s restful inner courtyard.

Ibu Movement Arrow

Like magic, a small street-front doorway and single staircase serve as a portal to 50 different countries. Textiles from 50 countries, that is, but you feel transported. The one-of-a-kind, second-floor boutique was born of founder Susan Hull Walker’s passion for craftsmanship (she weaves), for travel, and a mission to empower female artisans around the world. Ibu is an Indonesian-Malay term honoring women. So when you buy the thing you never knew you needed and suddenly can’t live without, you are not only giving a deferential bow to its maker, you're also doing a small part to help disrupt poverty and fund financial independence for a global sister.

Sullivan's Island Beach Arrow

Located at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor, the beaches on this island are ones that have been loved for generations, as is evidenced by some of the gingerbread cottages in the historic part of town. But what makes these beaches special, compared to Charleston's other beaches , is their wide expanse of sand, peaceful waves (because of sandbars), and natural paths through vegetation that not only make you feel as if you're stepping back in time, but protect the shoreline during storms and build a sense of anticipation for that first glimpse of blue water.

Citrus Club Arrow

Citrus Club serves well-curated small plates and fanciful cocktails to adults only (21-and-up). You don’t have to be a guest of the club's home at The Dewberry Hotel to access the it, but you will need to check in with the concierge by the elevator to receive a temporary keycard granting you access to the sky. The 8th floor elevator door spills you into a pristine white lobby hung with local artist Douglas Balentine’s charcoal beach figures. A host leads you to your table. While the indoor space and velvet bar stools are terrifically chic, the outdoor terrace is Citrus Club’s calling card. Guests tuck into posh little nooks separated by potted olive trees, lemons, limes, and a smattering of palms. Uninterrupted breezes travel from prevailing corners of a 360-degree view. You can see clear from river to river with a piña colada in hand.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort Arrow

Kiawah Island bills itself as a “stone’s throw” from historic Charleston, S.C. and if so, we'd like to meet the person who can throw that stone. Realistically, the 21-mile drive takes about 45 minutes. The leisurely drive through a tunnel of oaks takes you onto the barrier island which, although close to the mainland, feels worlds away. On your agenda: self-pampering, resort fine dining, tennis, kayaking, and world-class golf. If that sounds about right, Kiawah is well worth a day’s excursion or overnight; The Sanctuary is the only Forbes 5-Star and AAA 5-Diamond hotel in the state.

Robert Lange Studios Arrow

On a typical daytime visit, this gallery and working artist studio feels terrifically spacious and calm, with indie acoustics on the playlist and paintings covering contemporary subjects are on the walls. One dynamic exception occurs on the first Friday of each month, when lots of area galleries (see King Street for more) stay open into the evening, offering up drinks and hors d’oeuvres for what Charlestonians call the “Art Walk." On that night, RLS is elbow-to-elbow indeed, with easily a thousand people passing through to sip wine and discuss paintings, or to play with the interactive “stack your own rocks” table upstairs.

Preservation Society of Charleston Arrow

If you seek an authentic Charleston keepsake, this store off King Street has you covered. Think of it as a souvenir shop with taste and soul. Every item they source is locally made, with the exception of books that may have been published elsewhere, and pecans from a farm two hours north. The independent boutique was founded by and is still run by one of Charleston’s prominent preservation groups, thus the name. After your initial walk-through, head to the back room for comfy couches, old wood floors and tapestry rugs, a gaggle of great books to peruse, and air-conditioning! 

King Street Arrow

Although more chain stores have moved into this multi-block shopping stretch in the last few years, it's still a walker's paradise. If you love to avoid looking like "everyone else," then get fully outfitted at Hampden Clothing, Worthwhile or Ibu Movement , then accessorize with a blingy bauble (heirloom, preferably) from Croghan's Jewel Box or Joint Venture Estate Jewelers. Scent thyself with high-end spritzes from Cos Bar or Blue Mercury, shop for silver and the coffee table or curio to display it at George C. Birlant or the other antique shops, then accessorize your home with a piece of artwork from a variety of galleries, ranging from Hagan Fine Art to classics from the Audubon Gallery.

Mrs. Whaley's Garden Arrow

Unlike Charleston's historic homes, the city's private gardens are rarely open to the public, with throngs of visitors buying tickets for bi-annual house and garden festivals and tours. But here’s a secret: Emily Whaley’s garden at 58 Church Street stays open year-round, on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. And it's just the way Mrs. Whaley would've wanted it. In 1997, the feisty octogenarian known as “Cheeka” to friends and family wrote a book of musings, opinions, gardening thoughts, and memories, all woven together into a conversational memoir titled Mrs. Whaley and Her Charleston Garden . The book made the New York Times bestseller list, and 20 years on, the author's private oasis is still attracting visitors. Slip your $10 through the front door mail slot, then swing open the gate and walk back: you'll feel the breeze rustle through shade plants, see the bumblebees nudge climbing roses, and the acanthus sending up spiky purple blooms.

Coastal Expeditions Arrow

Greater Charleston is both surrounded by and interlaced with saltwater marshes, and kayaking is a great way to appreciate that. You can either rent kayaks (singles or doubles) or standup paddle boards to venture solo (with tips on where to go), or book guided tours of varying lengths with Coastal Expeditions. It is quite common to see surfacing dolphins feeding in pairs and groups, with the occasional summer manatee making an appearance.

Charleston Bike Taxi Arrow

Why Uber when you can take a bike taxi? They're an open-air way of being chauffeured from Point A to Point B, with unobstructed views of the city. We can all agree that fewer cars on the road are a good thing. Less noise, less pollution, quieter streets. Ten years ago, there weren’t that many pedicabs in Charleston. Now there are three companies. We like this one because of its professionalism, polish, promptness, and easy-to-spot telltale yellow cabs. You can flag one down, or call to be picked up.

In the Kitchen with Chef Bob Waggoner Arrow

This is as much dinner party as it is cooking class, visible to the street by a large surround of glass. Chef Waggoner hands you a glass of brut rosé Champagne, and there’s a bit of small talk, but then you get right to it, following his rapid-fire directives. You hone knife skills, learn to “blanche and shock,” to cut on the bias, to score fish and get a proper sear and finish it off in the oven, to caramelize and deglaze, to reduce and emulsify. There’s no published schedule for what you’ll be cooking on any given night. It’s up to the chef, and what looks best at the market that particular day. When we were there that included vermillion snapper on a bed of fennel, shallots, asparagus, green peas, and flat parsley, sautéed in a saffron-orange-butter-white-wine reduction, garnished with sunflower sprouts. Multiple wine pairings are included in the evening’s flat price. 

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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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22 essential things to do in Charleston, South Carolina

Sep 9, 2024 • 8 min read

Grab a plate of oysters at Bowen's Island Restaurant. Ethan Payne for Lonely Planet

Charleston has upped its game. Carriage tours still clip-clop through the historic district and ferries still shuttle crowds to Fort Sumter, but new attractions and revamped old favorites are keeping the Holy City relevant – and fun.

Rooftop bars, innovative breweries and small-batch distilleries keep opening their doors while plantations and historic homes are digging deep into Charleston’s diverse and complicated history. And foodies take note: Debates about the city’s best barbecue are just as passionate these days as debates about shrimp and grits. 

This list of Charleston’s best things to do offers a mix of the old and new.

1. Stroll the Historic District

Historic Charleston feels like one big living museum, and it's easily explored by foot. Antebellum homes, grand churches, weathered cemeteries and brilliant gardens – often tucked behind wrought-iron gates – hug the straight and narrow streets, which were laid out in the 1670s. Highlights include the Battery and White Point Gardens on the waterfront at the peninsula's southern tip. Pick up a map at the visitor center .

2. Culinary Adventures

With its seafood shacks, quirky mainstays and a dizzying array of “must-try” restaurants from wunderkind chefs, Charleston has enjoyed a culinary hot streak for a decade. Many menus are built around Lowcountry dishes and seafood, but creative interpretations of old favorites keep the dining scene fresh. Beyond shrimp and grits, top regional fare includes oysters, pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes, she-crab soup and a Lowcountry boil (shrimp, corn, potatoes, sausage and seasoning).

Tried-and-true stalwarts include Mike Lata’s FIG , oysters at Bowen's Island Restaurant and the Ordinary and food that’s both fast & French at Gaulart & Maliclet . Barbecue is also hot, with Home Team BBQ and Lewis Barbecue getting consistent local kudos. Top-notch International options are plentiful too.

3. Immerse in Gullah Culture

Enslaved people brought from West Africa to the Lowcountry held onto many of their homeland traditions after slavery ended. The resulting Gullah culture (Geechee in Georgia) has its own language and traditions, including amazing storytelling, art and music. Learn their history at McLeod Plantation on James Island, where tours describe the daily lives of enslaved people on a cotton plantation and trace the emergence of the Gullah culture. Their culture is celebrated annually in late May at the Gullah Festival in nearby Beaufort. Gullah Tours visits historical sites in and around Charleston.

4. Sample locally sourced spirits

Sweet tea is a distinctly Southern beverage, and according to state lore the popular drink was created in South Carolina. The team at Firefly Distillery embraces this heritage with its sweet tea-flavored vodka, which is made with tea from the Charleston Tea Garden. High Wire Distilling uses ingredients and heirloom grains from across the Lowcountry and South Carolina for its popular spirits. Tastings are available at both distilleries. Tours are offered Thursday through Saturday at High Wire. 

5. Explore Historic Homes

The Historic Charleston Foundation protects historic buildings in the city and advocates for the preservation of gardens, parks and neighborhoods. The foundation manages two historic buildings: The Aiken-Rhett House and the Nathaniel Russell House. Tours of the former, a townhouse that has been preserved but not restored, share details about past owners as well as the enslaved people who worked there. A self-supporting spiral staircase anchors the Nathaniel Russell House, a meticulously restored 1808 Federal Style house.

6. First Sumter National Monument

The shelling of Union-held Fort Sumter by Confederate forces in 1861 triggered the Civil War. The fort, which occupies a small pentagon-shaped island in Charleston Harbor, sees a steady stream of visitors, especially in summer. But even with the crowds, it’s easy to immerse in the chaotic confusion of that historic day thanks to the remote setting—a ferry ride is required—and an engaging ranger talk that spotlights the historic clash.

7. Walk the Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge

Burn off last night’s shrimp and grits with a power walk over the graceful Arthur J Ravenel Bridge, which links the town of Mount Pleasant and the Charleston Historic District. The 2.5-mile pedestrian path over the cable-stayed bridge rises about 200ft above the Cooper River and provides gorgeous views of both communities. There's a parking lot with access to the pedestrian path in Mount Pleasant. The view from the span is especially nice at sunset.

8. Tour the only tea garden in the U.S.

Attempts to grow tea commercially in the US began in the 1820s in southeastern South Carolina, where the sandy soil, sub-tropical weather and frequent rainfall were well-suited for tea plants. In the 1960s wild tea plants from one of these early plantations were harvested and successfully re-planted on Wadmalaw Island 30 miles southwest of Charleston. Today Charleston Tea Garden offers tours of its tea factory (free) and trolley tours of its acres of hardy tea plants. 

9. Get out on the water

Flanked by creeks, marshes, rivers and the Atlantic Ocean, the Lowcountry is an ideal place for paddling trips and boat excursions. Wildlife and gorgeous coastal views abound. Keep it simple with a ride on the Charleston Water Taxi between Charleston and Mount Pleasant or scan for dolphins during the boat ride to Fort Sumter. Adventure Harbor Tours runs sunsets cruises and trips to uninhabited Morris Island. Numerous outfitters offer paddling trips through Shem Creek and Lowcountry creeks and marshes.

10. Wander the gardens at Middleton Place

Designed in 1741, the elegant gardens at Middleton Place are the oldest landscaped gardens in America. Today they are also home to more than 100,000 azaleas. One of three historic plantations along the Ashley River northwest of downtown, Middleton Place owes its early beauty to the work of the enslaved people who spent years developing and maintaining the land. Their stories are shared onsite. Lowcountry fare is on the menu at the popular restaurant here.

11. Ride the Charleston Beer Trolley

A free trolley swings through the Charleston Beer District in downtown Charleston on Saturdays, stopping at ten breweries between 1pm and 9pm. You can visit them by hopping on and off. Revelry Brewery has a fire pit on its rooftop while Edmund’s Oast has 20 house-brewer beers on tap. Check the Charleston Brewery District Facebook page for the current trolley schedule.

12. Explore Mount Pleasant

For a break from the historic district, board a water taxi at Waterfront Park and cross the Cooper River to Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. At the Naval and Maritime Museum you can tour the USS Yorktown, an enormous decommissioned aircraft carrier used in WWII. You’ll need your car to visit Boone Hall Plantation and its striking Avenue of Oaks, planted in 1743. The most compelling buildings here are the original slave cabins. Explore charming Old Village then make your way to lovely Shem Creek for dinner by the water. Look for dolphins and party boats.

13. Find family fun downtown

If your kids dig spooky attractions, it’s hard to get much creepier than the dungeon at the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon in the Historic District. The British held American patriots in the cramped space here during the Revolutionary War. The 385,000-gallon ocean tank and the sea turtle rehabilitation hospital lure in kids for a closer look at the South Carolina Aquarium . The Kidstory area at the Charleston Museum explores the city’s history with hands-on exhibits. Enormous skeletons of prehistoric creatures keep things real in the natural history gallery. For skateboarding, head to SK8 Charleston , a 32,000-foot concrete skatepark in North Charleston.

14. Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum

In the heart of the Historic District, this small but hard-hitting museum occupies the site of a former open-air market that auctioned African Americans in the mid-1800s. Text-driven exhibits provide an unflinching look at the cruelties and horrors of the slave trade. Compelling oral histories from former enslaved people and a handful of chilling artifacts also make a powerful impression.

15. History Prep at the Charleston Museum

History hurtles at you from every direction in Charleston, which played a pivotal role in America’s past as a busy port city and center of trade. For a quick history primer, spend an hour or two in the Charleston Museum . Exhibits dedicated to the city’s early development and its role in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars provide helpful background and context. Artifacts highlight diverse experiences, including those of Native Americans, enslaved African Americans and influential politicians.

16. Sip cocktails on a rooftop bar

Swanky rooftop bars with sweeping views of downtown are plentiful. They are also easy to find – just ride the elevator to the top of the trendiest hotels. Twinkling views of city lights and Charleston Harbor bring crowds to the iconic Rooftop Bar at the art-themed Vendue. You’ll find an infinity pool, illuminated umbrellas and more stunning city views at the Pavilion Bar atop the Market Pavilion Hotel.

Planning tip: If you’re heading to a popular rooftop spot during the warmer months, check to see if you need reservations to avoid waiting in line.

17. Shopping on King Street

King Street is the historic district’s prime shopping corridor. With numerous stores selling home furnishings and housewares, Upper King is considered the design district while Middle King is the fashion district, home of well-known clothing stores as well as high-end boutiques. The southernmost stretch, Lower King, is dotted with antique stores. Pop into Blue Bicycle Books for new and used books, many focusing on the South.

18. Take a photo at Rainbow Row

There’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy spots in Charleston, but arguably, one of the most famous is Rainbow Row , a collection of 13 pastel houses built in the 18th century. It’s hard to walk past the beautiful facades without seeing an impromptu photo shoot, and it’s an easy stop just a block from Waterfront Park.

Local tip: Once your photo op is over, there are plenty of historic, beautiful, although less social media-famous, homes to look at in the surrounding French Quarter.

19. Book a guided walking tour

A walking tour is a great idea in most cities, but especially in Charleston, thanks to its walkability and wealth of history. You can find guided tours  covering many of the city's major landmarks, including architecture, ghosts, wartime history, and more.  Two Sisters Tours ,  Walks of Charleston,  and Tours By Foot all offer affordable options.

20. Shop at Charleston City Market

If you want to shop local, the Charleston City Market is the place to do just that. Skip the tourist souvenirs in favor of local artisans and vendors. Built in 1841, the market’s great hall is also one of Charleston’s must-see historical sites.

Planning tip: The Charleston City Market is open from mid-March through December on Friday and Saturday evenings.

21. Walk in the parks

In addition to beautiful buildings and streets, Charleston has some beautiful parks – 120 to be exact. If you’re looking for a free activity , visit Waterfront Park , featuring 10 acres of waterfront views of the Charleston Harbor and Cooper River, plus the iconic pineapple water fountain. One of Charleston’s most spacious parks is Hampton Park , where you can find beautiful flowers and a convenient public restroom.

Local tip: If you find yourself in Charleston on a Saturday morning, the farmers market at Marion Square is well worth the visit.

22. Spot dolphins

As if there wasn’t already enough to do, Charleston is also a hotspot for dolphin watching. Whether you could use a break from walking or just want to enjoy a free activity, there are lots of waterways that dolphins have been known to frequent around the city, including Shem Creek, Waterfront Park, Folly Beach and more.

Local tip: If you make it out to Fort Sumter, spend some time watching for dolphins amidst the waves.

Charleston planning tips

How many days is enough for charleston.

Despite its small-town feel, Charleston is the largest city in South Carolina, so you’ll need at least a three-day visit to scratch the surface of the Holy City.

Is Charleston, SC, a walkable city?

Charleston is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. Depending on where you stay, you may need to catch a ride to and from the airport. However, heading to the beach, like Sullivan’s Island, will also require a car ride.

Are there any popular annual events or festivals in Charleston?

Charleston hosts an annual performing arts festival called Spoleto Festival, The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) and more.

Keep planning your trip to Charleston:

Deciding between Charleston and Savannah? Read this .  Explore walkable riverside towns, nature preserves and more on day trips from Charleston . Find out the best time to visit Charleston .

This article was first published Oct 28, 2021 and updated Sep 9, 2024.

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on 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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A Trip To Charleston Promises Good Times And Great Food

Good times and good eats abound in this beloved South Carolina city.

• Restaurants
• Get Outside

Given that Southern Living readers have named it The South’s Best City several times, Charleston, South Carolina, requires no introduction or persuasive arguments in its favor: The booming food scene, colorful historic homes, and waterfront views make the case for themselves. It’s easy to fill a long weekend itinerary here, and given that it’s nearly impossible to tackle everything on your “to eat” list in just a few days, the Holy City is a place you’ll want to plan a return trip or two . Here are our favorite restaurants, bars, shops , and experiences, from lauded, well-known picks to those that fly a bit further under the radar.

Check Some Restaurants Off Your Bucket List

Savor fresh shrimp at bowens island restaurant.

When it comes to dinner with a view, one place stands out as the finest (but still no-frills) place to eat local shrimp, and that's Bowens Island—a nearly 80-year-old family-owned restaurant perched in a few ramshackle structures on the river. Order a fried shrimp platter with hushpuppies and slaw, or go for the Frogmore Stew (for the uninitiated, that's a shrimp boil), a drool-worthy combination of boiled shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage.

bowensisland.com , 870 Bowens Island Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Settle In for Soul Food at Bertha’s Kitchen

The bright purple awning and teal blue facade of this James Beard Award winner (2017 America’s Classic) may be the first things that catch your eye, but it’s the red rice, chicken necks, and okra soup that’ll make it worth your while to join the line of hungry patrons that snakes from the counter register around the restaurant’s perimeter. 

facebook.com , 2332 Meeting Street Rd, Charleston, SC 29405

Try FIG’s Famous Tomato Tarte Tatin

Tourists may be quick to complain about summertime’s soupy humidity and mosquitoes, but locals know that the season’s arrival brings at least one welcome visitor: Chef Mike Lata’s Tomato Tarte Tatin. The dish, crowned with garlic confit and served alongside whipped goat cheese, typically appears on the menu in June and lingers until September or October—in other words, only when the local tomatoes are at their best. But even if your trip doesn’t fall in line with this window, FIG is still worth the reservation: the staff is gracious and knowledgeable, and the food is singularly memorable even in a town swamped with dining options.

eatatfig.com , 232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401 

Order a Plate of Fried Chicken at Leon’s

The worst kept secret in the city is a must-visit for first-timers. Few other places in town capture so well the relaxed ease that seems woven into Charleston’s very DNA. Housed in an old garage and outfitted with warm wooden tables and an art collection that feels like it was passed down from generation to generation until it landed here, Leon’s is the kind of place that feels like it’s always been part of the Charleston dining landscape—a triumph considering it’s a relative newcomer, opened in 2014. Fried chicken and oysters (raw and char-grilled) are the main draws on the menu, but don’t miss the scalloped potatoes either; it all pairs nicely with a bucket of Miller High Life ‘Ponies.’

leonsoystershop.com , 698 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

Tuck into a Thali at Ma’am Saab

Helmed by Chef Maryam Ghaznavi, this Pakistani spot celebrates inventive twists on storied dishes. At lunchtime, order the Signature Thali, a plate that Southerners might recognize as being akin to a meal at a meat-and-three; choose from creamy butter chicken, saag paneer (a vegetarian dish with spinach and cheese), curried chickpeas, and smoked ground beef. 

maamsaabchs.com, 251 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401 

Sample Chez Nous’ Changing Menu 

Nestled in an historic house on a hidden away street, you likely wouldn’t just happen upon this neighborhood eatery that feels like a mini escape to Europe, and that’s half the charm. The cozy atmosphere is elevated but inviting, and the handwritten menu of seasonally driven dishes changes daily. It’s fortunate, too, that the options are so few (two appetizers, two mains, two desserts), as you’ve got a good excuse to order one of each.

cheznouschs.com , 6 Payne Court, Charleston, SC 29403

Save Room for a Slice of Cake

While Peninsula Grill could claim many of their dishes as “worth traveling for,” the fine dining establishment is best known for its Ultimate Coconut Cake, a 12-layer confection stuffed with cream cheese icing, coated in toasted coconut, and topped with strawberries. 

peninsulagrill.com; 112 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401

Learn About The City’s History Firsthand

Spend an afternoon at the international african american museum (iaam).

Opened in June 2023 and positioned on what was once Gadsden’s Wharf (the arrival site around 40% of all enslaved people in North America), the IAAM houses 12 permanent exhibitions and a Special Exhibitions gallery, which explore a wide range of topics, from the Gullah Geechee peoples in South Carolina and Georgia to the African Diaspora’s impact on the U.S. at large. The museum is also home to the Center for Family History, where visitors can use on-site resources to discover their own families’ stories. Carve out time to explore the African Ancestors Memorial Garden below the building, as well; it’s free and open to the public.

iaamuseum.org , 14 Wharfside St, Charleston, SC 29401

Squeeze In Multiple Sites with a Walking Tour

There’s no better way to experience Charleston than by strolling its streets with someone who’s both well-versed in its history—including the “historic gossip” that makes learning about the past especially exciting—and has a pulse on what’s current. You’ll find just that with Walk and Talk Charleston. Helmed by hat-wearing founder, “Lid Lady” Tyler Page Wright Friedman, the company offers a variety of educational experiences, from their “Classic Charleston History and Historic Gossip Tour” to “The Real Rainbow Row Tour,” which chronicles the city’s LGBTQ+ history.

walkandtalkchs.com

Take the Ferry to Fort Sumter

For history buffs, a visit to Fort Sumter —the place where the Civil War began—is a must. On April 12, 1861, Confederate troops fired on this then-Union-held fort, launching the four-year war. Today, Fort Sumter is a national park and designated historic and commemorative site with a museum. Positioned in the middle of Charleston Harbor, the only way to reach it is via a tour boat, which can be booked through Fort Sumter Tours. Opt for the day’s first time slot for a chance to help the park rangers raise the U.S. flag over the fort. 

fortsumtertours.com

Visit the Aiken-Rhett House Museum

Built in 1820, the Aiken-Rhett House is today considered one of the best-preserved townhouse complexes in the country. Rather than restoring the home upon acquiring it in 1995, the Historic Charleston Foundation took a preserved-as-found approach, which means the furniture, finishes, and architecture on site haven’t been changed since the mid-19th century. Perhaps most unique to the site is that the quarters in which enslaved people lived were also left essentially untouched, offering a more comprehensive look into life in antebellum Charleston. You can move through the museum with a guide or opt for a self-guided tour with the Historic Charleston Foundation’s free app.

historiccharleston.org , 48 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403

Step Aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown

Visit WWII’s “Fighting Lady,” a decorated aircraft carrier that also served in the Vietnam War and recovered the astronauts and capsule from the Apollo 8’s spaceflight (the first with humans to reach the moon). For a truly immersive experience, book a one- or two-night stay aboard the ship through the Yorktown’s Operation Overnight program.

patriotspoint.org, 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 

Toast Your Travels With Delicious Drinks

Pair your cocktail with a view.

Formerly a federal building, circa-1964 The Dewberry is now one of the city’s most lauded boutique hotels. Even if a stay here isn’t in the cards, reserve a table at Citrus Club on the hotel’s 8th floor terrace for a light lunch and tasty drinks with a prime view of the city. Looking to make a scene? Order the Tropical Itch, a rum-and-bourbon concoction garnished with a back scratcher. 

thedewberrycharleston.com; 334 Meeting St, Charleston, SC, 29403

Discover New-to-You Wines 

Whether you’re committed to a grocery store Pinot Grigio or you’re always on the hunt for the next best thing, Femi Oyediran and Miles White, sommeliers and co-owners of Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar, can school you in the latest and greatest glass. At this neighborhood spot, you’re sure to find good wine and good music and be welcomed like a local.

graftchs.com , 700b King Street, Charleston, SC 29403

Sip a Poolside Paloma at Little Palm

Revel in the delightfully retro atmosphere of The Ryder hotel’s poolside bar and café, which is awash in peach and pistachio hues. We’re suckers for Little Palm’s playful cocktail names, like the “Extra Leg Room,” made with gin and oolong tea soda, and the “Offshore Accounts,” which features three different spirits.

littlepalmbar.com ; 237 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

Sample Edmunds Oast’s Local Brews

Check out the city’s craft beer scene with a stop at Edmund’s Oast, a local brewery that churns out dozens of ales, from classic blondes to fruity sours. Choose from two locations: the original “fine casual” restaurant and cocktail bar on Morrison, or the production brewery and taproom on King, where they’ve always got 20 house-brewed beers on tap. 

edmundsoast.com ; 1081 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403 and 1505 King St #115, Charleston, SC 29405

Have a Nightcap at Félix

If you’re hoping for an early A.M. drink without venturing to a dive, Félix Cocktails et Cuisine is the move. Sink into a leather-wrapped banquette at this Paris-inspired bistro and end your evening with a Félix Royale, a draft cocktail crafted with local gin, lime juice, and sparkling wine.

felixchs.com , 550 King St #100, Charleston, SC 29403

Revel In the City’s Arts Scene

Getty Images

Catch a Show at America’s First Theater

The Dock Street Theater originally opened in Charleston’s French Quarter in 1736, the first building constructed exclusively for theater performances. After the city’s Great Fire, which wiped out the original building, the theater was rebuilt in 1809 as a hotel and didn’t serve as a performing arts center again until 1937, after an extensive renovation. Today, the Dock Street Theater is an inspired venue to see a musical or play; the theater’s resident professional company, Charleston Stage, offers more than 100 performances each year. 

charlestonstage.com ; 135 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401

Peruse the Collection at the Gibbes Museum of Art

Opened in 1905, the city’s historic art museum is home to more than 7,000 pieces in various mediums which date from the colonial era to present. Don’t miss the Mary Jackson Modern and Contemporary Gallery (part of the museum’s permanent collection), which is named for the famous Charleston sweetgrass basket artist and features pieces by artists native to the area or who have spent time here, as well as those who have created works that present a compelling and honest portrait of South. 

gibbesmuseum.org , 135 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

Pop Into the Local Galleries

With more than 40 galleries in the area, the Holy City has no shortage of places to connect with local artists and peruse their works. Time your trip with the first weekend of the month and join the Charleston Gallery Association for its First Friday Artwalk, when local galleries keep their doors open after hours for a convivial celebration of Charleston’s arts community.

charlestongalleryassociation.com

Mark Your Calendar for Spoleto

While the local arts scene never sleeps, Spoleto Festival USA is an especially exhilarating time for local arts lovers and visitors. Each spring, for more than two weeks, the city plays host to one of the country’s most impressive arts festivals, in which renowned and up-and-coming musicians, singers, dancers, actors, and other artists descend upon Charleston for a series of memorable performances, exhibitions, and shows. 

spoletousa.org

Shop for A Memorable Souvenir

Find a sweetgrass basket at the charleston city market.

One of the oldest markets in the country, Charleston City Market runs the length of four blocks in the heart of downtown, anchored by the Great Hall on Meeting Street with a series of one-story sheds that continue until you reach East Bay. Here, you can shop for a wide variety of souvenirs (there are some 300 vendors), but the real treasures here are sweetgrass baskets, which are hand-woven by Gullah artists, many of whom learned to weave from the generations before them.

thecharlestoncitymarket.com , 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

Browse New and Antique Pieces at Croghan’s Jewel Box

A go-to destination for finding meaningful, heirloom-worthy gifts, this century-old shop on King Street is helmed by the third and fourth generations of the same family. Beyond curating an incredible assortment of new and estate jewelry and silver, they also carry the Goldbug Collection , a cheeky, more approachable line of pieces designed in-house and inspired by the city.

croghansjewelbox.com ; 308 King St, Charleston, SC 29401

Try the Latest Trend at The Tiny Tassel 

With “Live colorfully!” for her motto, it’s little wonder that founder Mimi Striplin’s shop in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood is filled with jewelry, accessories, and clothing that give Rainbow Row a run for its money. Named for the brand’s signature tassel earrings, the brand (led by Striplin and her lead designer mom, Keiko) releases a new collection each season, so you’re sure to find something unique every time you shop. 

thetinytassel.com ; 46 Spring St Unit B, Charleston, SC 29403 

Explore Artisan-Made Luxury Goods at Ibu Movement’s Showroom

Founded by former minister Susan Hull Walker in 2014, this organization partners with women artisans in 40 countries, empowering them with living wages that enable them to move towards financial independence and provide for their families. Ibu’s cozy shop on King Street peddles an assortment of their beautifully crafted goods, from raffia handbags made in Colombia to silk-and-cotton dresses made in Uzbekistan.

ibumovement.com , 183 King St 2nd Floor, Charleston, SC 29401

Play Outside

Stroll the arthur ravenel jr. bridge.

The two-and-a-half mile cable-stayed crossing between downtown Charleston and the suburb of Mount Pleasant is a scenic place to break a sweat. Climb the hilly spans on the protected pedestrian path, and stop at the top to catch your breath and score a bird’s-eye view of the sparkling Cooper River and downtown Charleston, including the many steeples that earned the place its Holy City moniker.

Look for Sharks’ Teeth at Melton Peter Demetre Park

Only a few miles from downtown, James Island is largely residential without downtown’s draws for tourists. For a true locals-only experience, head to the city-owned waterfront spot , where you can hunt for sharks’ teeth with panoramic views of downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant or cast a line off the 190-foot fishing pier.

charleston-sc.gov ; 640 Wampler Drive, Charleston, SC 29412

Enjoy a Beach Day

Make the short drive to Sullivan’s Island , a small barrier island ten miles from downtown Charleston. There’s not a trace of touristy kitsch in this bitty beach town, where historic homes line oak-shaded streets and storybook cottages invite passersby to stop and smell rose-wrapped trellises. Up for dinner and a show? Pick up a pizza from The Obstinate Daughter and take it to the sand for a sunset picnic.

Related Articles

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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21 of the Best Things to Do in Charleston SC

Have you wondered why Charleston, South Carolina continues to win accolades for being a great place to visit?

Just imagine a place with:

• perfect weather
• beautiful beaches
• historic attractions

But it gets better:

Regardless of the time of year you’re here, there is always something fun to do in Charleston. This historic city is full of pleasant surprises, even for visitors from much larger cities.

But I know the feeling:

There’s a lot to sift through when planning a visit, or just a weekend day while living here.

Start with our list of the top activities for your first day. The rest should fall into place after that, depending on what amount of time you’re looking to spend here.

Here’s our list of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina !

Check out this video by Jetblue they created when they first started flying to Charleston’s airport. It’s a brief introduction to the sights and sounds you’ll experience on a typical day in Charleston, South Carolina.

Don’t forget to check our recommendations for the best time to visit Charleston, SC , if you’re not sure when you’re coming.

Table of Contents

Top 10 best things to do in charleston, south carolina this weekend.

With a laundry list of activities to take advantage of regardless of the weather here, a visit to Charleston requires prioritizing. Here are the top attractions to do on your first visit here. If you don’t get to them all, there’s always the second visit! And speaking of coming back, keep visiting this page as we continue to add more things to do in South Carolina.

1. Historic Charleston City Market

No visit to Charleston would be complete without wandering through the  Historic Charleston City Market  and nearby. Though the market area is touristy, the  Charleston City Market  is pretty and historic. It’s also an opportunity to check-out the Museum on Market Street (when open). Walking through (using the free public restrooms) and looking at the various goods is all free. You’ll find anything related to Charleston, as well as many unique things, here:

• Sweetgrass baskets
• Artisanal food
• And much more

I would not recommend any of the restaurants on Market Street, but rather to head elsewhere after exploring.

I would also recommend heading elsewhere to find a sweetgrass basket made by local artisans.

The markup is serious here.

That said, you can grab a drink with a view at either the Pavilion Bar or Henry House. Those are two great choices for a rooftop restaurant in Charleston with a view of the Historic Charleston City Market.

2. The Battery and White Point Gardens

Where the Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet sits one of the most quintessential tourist attractions here: White Point Gardens . This park features a prime location at the tip of the peninsula in the South of Broad neighborhood in Charleston. Visitors enjoy beautiful views of Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge. Missing a stroll through White Point Gardens and along the Battery would leave a visit to Charleston inadequate.

White Point Gardens, often incorrectly called, “Battery Park”, is perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll. Another historic home on the Battery, the Edmonston-Alston House , is a perfect addition to your visit down here.

3. Charleston Tours

One of the fastest ways to see Charleston and surrounding area is through the guidance of a trained local.

Charleston, SC, tours are always fascinating. And that goes double for history buffs.

All Charleston tour guides are well-trained before taking visitors out, and there’s plenty of tour types to choose:

• Charleston culinary tours, most are a walking tour
• Historic tours
• Ghost tours in one of the most haunted cities in America
• Boat tours of Charleston harbor

Ghost tours in Charleston, SC , especially are a treat: as a historic city, there are more than a few great ghost stories to share with visitors.

But there are also carriage rides and Charleston plantation tours to enjoy on your visit. And a boat tour around Charleston harbor is a delightful way to see the city from a different angle. And walking tours are a great way to stretch your legs in a very walkable city.

Each have unique information about the city’s rich history according to the individual tour guide, so you’ll be sure to enjoy some variety.

4. Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor

Charleston, South Carolina was of significant political and military importance for the Confederacy during the American Civil War.

And luckily, visitors are welcome to the location that marked the start of the Civil War.

It’s located right here in the Charleston harbor. When Citadel cadets started firing upon Fort Sumter, the Civil War officially started.

Fort Sumter, SC , is one of the best tourist attractions in Charleston for history buffs.

Even if you’re not into scrambling over rocks for an hour, the ride out to Fort Sumter can be spectacular.

Boat tours of the harbor, including the Schooner Pride, are readily available.

5. Rainbow Row

Arguably the most photographed location in Charleston, Rainbow Row is a line of 13 historic homes on East Bay Street. Painted various pastel colors to match a Caribbean color scheme, the houses faced the Cooper River when they were first constructed. Today, they stand between Tradd Street and Elliot Street and are right along the route from White Point Gardens to Waterfront Park .

6. Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge

Aside from Rainbow Row, the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge is what most Charlestonians associate with living in the Lowcountry. It almost seems that no matter where you are in the area, you can see the two towers of the bridge standing high above everything. A fair amount of that is probably because of how low-lying the land is here. But a walk or bike ride along the Ravenel bridge is a relaxing way to see the Charleston skyline and the harbor.

7. Charleston Waterfront Park

Another scenic location on the Charleston peninsula, Waterfront Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Charleston, South Carolina.

The pineapple fountain is alone is a major draw; it’s another one of the most famous sites to see here.

But sitting on one of the swinging benches on the wharf is a great way to while away the afternoon.

Walk down Vendue Range to start your visit to Waterfront Park. Wander southward to the point where the park spits you back out into the French Quarter. And poke your head into the Art Gallery at Waterfront Park , while you’re here.

8. Middleton Place

Definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Charleston, Middleton Place sits on the Ashley River . The house is not the most impressive of the plantations near Charleston , as the original home was burned in the Civil War . That said, the gardens are gorgeous and framed by live oaks lining the Ashley River. Take a carriage ride, explore the house, or enjoy a meal at the Middleton Place restaurant. But definitely don’t miss a chance to wander through this former rice plantation.

9. College of Charleston Campus

Walking through the central part of the College of Charleston campus is like walking through Disneyland’s version of Charleston . The buildings and homes have all been beautifully restored. The lights and Spanish moss dripping from the limbs of the giant live oaks make nighttime at the Cistern a magical experience, to boot .

10. The Nathaniel Russell House

The Holy City is most famous for the architectural gems throughout downtown. That list of historic houses is sure to include the Nathaniel Russell House . Walking around town is a delight, but exploring the inside of some of these homes add interest to fans of architecture and interior design . It’s also good to see how people lived in the height of Charleston’s influence and wealth. It’s difficult to find examples of how the vast majority of Charleston’s inhabitants lived downtown (the slaves and urban poor) . And yet, the Nathaniel Russell House is one of several excellent examples of the upper crust’s lifestyle .

More Activities and Attractions in Charleston, South Carolina

11. the best charleston beaches.

• Isle of Palms
• Sullivan’s Island
• Folly Beach
• Kiawah Island
• Seabrook Island
• Edisto Beach

12. Charleston Plantations

Magnolia Plantation

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens , a 70-acre Charleston tourist attraction, features gardens in formal, romantic, and natural styles. Be sure to take the guided tour of the Audubon Swamp Garden and visit the petting zoo.

• Boone Hall Plantation
• Drayton Hall
• McLeod Plantation Historic Site

13. Hampton Park

At 60 acres, Hampton Park is the largest park in downtown Charleston (though not the largest park in all Charleston) .

It’s also the prettiest and most relaxing, in this writer’s humble opinion.

A circular running path around the perimeter of Hampton Park compliments the interior.

Stroll through the middle to find the gazebo, playground, pond with fountains and friendly ducks, and the best plantings in Charleston . To get here, head north of the Crosstown and pass Westside neighborhood and Hampton Park Terrace .

14. Shopping in Charleston

Going shopping is not necessarily for everyone. But the best shopping in downtown Charleston, SC , is a major draw for more than a handful of people .

King Street shopping is Charleston’s version of Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles, Fifth Avenue in New York, or Bond Street in London . But high-end and luxury shopping is not the only thing found in this shopping area. From used book stores to thrift shops to specialty Charleston coffee shops and Charleston bakeries , there are plenty of establishments to pique anyone’s interest .

For those looking to save some money, there are plenty of malls near Charleston, like the Tanger Outlets in North Charleston or the Citadel Mall in West Ashley.

15. Broad Street

There’s an old saying that there are two types of people in South Carolina: people who live South of Broad Street, and everyone else.

Broad Street has long been associated with wealth.

Today, the street is lined with art galleries, luxury real estate offices, law offices, and some great restaurants. A personal favorite is Fast and French.

16. King Street

Broad Street is associated with Old Charleston, but King Street is linked to the modern and the future of the city . Lower King Street is full of high-end boutique shopping. Meanwhile, Upper King Street is where you’ll find many of the best restaurants and bars in the entire city.

17. Charleston Museum

• Joseph Manigault House
• Heyward-Washington House

Not maintained by the Charleston Museum, but just around the corner is another historic home. The Aiken-Rhett house museum is owned by the Historic Charleston Foundation, and it’s pretty cool, too.

Another personal favorite is the Old Slave Mart Museum. This gut-wrenching museum in the city center is a powerful reminder of the insidious source of Charleston’s wealth.

18. Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon

The Old Exchange and Provost Building was completed in 1771.

It was the socio-cultural center of the city of Charleston from the end of the colonial era and into early Revolutionary period .

It survived an attempt to demolish and convert its spot where East Bay Street and Broad Street meet to a gas station.

And today, it’s a National Historic Landmark.

The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon below the building is even older than what’s above it. It’s worth a visit to see how pirates and others found outside the law were treated in early America (and maybe see a ghost yourself).

19. South Carolina Aquarium

No trip to Charleston, South Carolina, would be complete without visiting the South Carolina Aquarium .

Opened in May of 2000, the South Carolina Aquarium inspires conservation with some pretty spectacular exhibits such as the two-story tank . It is home to more than 5000 animals, including birds, stingrays, a touch tank of sharks, and river otters!

This unique facility is both educational and entertaining for at least a few hours (a lot more if you’ve got kids). Be sure to come see why the South Carolina Aquarium has been consistently voted the best tourist attraction in Charleston for families !

20. Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park

The “Joe”, as it’s locally known, is named after the former 10-term mayor of Charleston. It’s located on the banks of the Ashley River between Brittlebank Park and the Citadel Military College campus . Of course, baseball is a major part of the draw of the Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park , but that’s just a part of the story of the stadium and its draw . Their hipster-style hot dogs cannot be beat.

21. Gibbes Museum of Art

22. the islands near charleston.

Charleston sits amid a constellation of islands. Some are sea-facing (the famed sea islands), others are not.

But each has its own flair and unique points to see. Aside from ones I already mentioned for their beaches ( Isle of Palms , Sullivan’s Island, and Folly Beach), some others to explore:

Johns Island

The largest island near Charleston, Johns Island still hosts wide country roads sided with live oaks dripping Spanish moss. It’s like a different, much more laidback world over there. And some of the best restaurants in all Charleston, for some reason.

James Island

The most densely populated of the islands in Charleston’s orbit, James Island hosts such hip neighborhoods as Avondale. It’s also got some of the most diverse options for food in the area.

Wadmalaw Island

The most rural, and remote of the islands near Charleston, SC. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you’re here, enjoying the fresh air. It’s also the home of the Charleston tea plantation.

60 of the Best Places to Eat in Charleston

There’s a reason Charleston was voted North America’s Best City and second best city in the world (after Kyoto, Japan). Among them: the food.

10 of the Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Downtown Charleston, SC

Many fine dining Charleston restaurants have gained nation-wide notoriety for their ingredients, their chefs, or just their flavors. No visit to Charleston is complete without exploring as many of the fantastic Charleston restaurants as time here permits.

Seafood Restaurants

A trip to Charleston would not be complete without savoring at least one meal of seafood fresh from the surrounding Lowcountry waters . Coastal South Carolina seafood cuisine on offer at the various seafood restaurants in downtown Charleston, SC , ranges from shrimp and grits to she-crab soup and fresh oysters .

Casual Restaurants in Charleston

As is befitting for a city with such a strong foodie culture, there are plenty of other casual restaurants in Charleston, SC , to try. A few fantastic options downtown include: Xiao Bao Biscuit , Hominy Grill, Butcher and Bee, Edmund’s Oast, and the Ordinary.

While lacking a major Italian-American population, Charleston does have a pretty good pizza scene, too. Check out our list of places to find the best pizza in Charleston, SC .

Brunch Restaurants in Charleston

Before visiting all the historical attractions within Charleston, a decent brunch in Charleston, SC , is almost required . With many local favorites endemic to here, restaurants in Charleston serve, without question, the best brunch in all the South .

Check out our list before your hunt for the best shrimp and grits in Charleston.

Even More of the Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC: The Lists

To help curate the various Charleston activities according to the goal of your visit, we’ve also made lists according to who’s tagging along with you on your trip:

• your significant other
• an outdoor enthusiast
• your entire family
• someone very, very, cheap

21 of the Most Romantic Things to Do in Charleston, SC

• The Morris Island Lighthouse Trail on Folly Beach
• Sailing on the Schooner Pride
• Taking a cooking class at Zero George Hotel

23 of the Most Fun Stuff to Do in Charleston, SC, with Kids

There is no more effective birth control in the world than traveling with kids (except babysitting). But traveling to Charleston can be pretty breezy with tykes in tow.

Lucky for you there are plenty of fun things to do in Charleston, SC, with kids for plenty of family fun.

Here’s a list of this writer’s favorite fun things for kids to do in Charleston after having dragged kids around myself.

60 of the Best Free Activities in Charleston, SC

Despite the aura of genteel opulence that is what many define as Charleston, there are plenty of free things to do in Charleston, SC . In fact, many a Charleston local will spend weeks exploring the city and its various free attractions without spending much .

10 of the Most Fun Outdoor Activities in Charleston, SC

Did you know that Charleston is in the middle of a biological hotspot? This area includes a huge number of endemic species of plants and wildlife found nowhere else in the world. And the unbridled development that happened elsewhere in the hotspot largely passed Charleston by (until recently).

Now, there are still plenty of fun outdoor activities to enjoy in Charleston and nearby . Some of the most popular outdoor activities here include:

• Golfing, with award-winning courses as the Kiawah Island Golf Resort
• Fishing, with places like Folly Beach pier and Mount Pleasant pier scattered throughout the area

And a few personal favorites are:

• Biking around the Lowcountry
• Nature trails at Caw Caw and other county parks
• Kayaking at James Island County Park
• Any sort of activity at any of the beaches, obviously

You just need to know where to look in the area stretching from Edisto and Kiawah Island up to Awendaw and Isle of Palms .

Charleston Nightlife

Looking for things to do tonight in Charleston SC?

Then read on:

With so many opportunities to enjoy Charleston nightlife, there are rarely dull moments in town. Enjoying a night on the town is pretty easy in as lively a place as Charleston. From:

• Exploring the best bars in Charleston, SC around Upper King Street
• To higher-end establishments
• Seeing a theater production at the Dock Street Theatre
• Enjoying some live music at the Charleston Music Hall
• Or a Riverdogs baseball game at the Joe

There’s plenty to keep visitors and locals alike busy.

Explore our full list of the most fun things to do in Charleston, SC, at night .

Charleston events this weekend

Charleston, SC is a city full of life and things to do! Each year, the city hosts hundreds of events, festivals, and fun activities that bring locals and visitors together.

The list of things happening Charleston this weekend more than likely includes an event or two.

Unless you’re visiting in the dead of winter, which… Why?

Charleston Farmers Market

The largest farmers market in the country gathers each Sunday morning at Marion Square in our vibrant cultural hub. Stalls at the Charleston Farmers Market are near bursting with everything from produce to hand-carved tables, most local.

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition

Exhibits, lectures, wildlife art, and other activities are part of the three-day Southeastern Wildlife Exposition . The exposition, one of the largest wildlife events in the country, is held every February.

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival includes four days of wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and regional cuisine. The festival is held each year in March. It’s one of Charleston’s most popular events.

The Charleston Jazz Festival

The Charleston Jazz Festival is a three-day event that features local and national jazz musicians performing. The event is scheduled for April.

Lowcountry Cajun Festival

The Lowcountry Cajun Festival is a family-friendly event that celebrates Louisianan cuisine and culture. The April festival will feature Cajun cuisine, music, dancing, and crafts.

Spoleto Festival USA

Spoleto Festival USA is a two-week arts festival that features opera, theater, dance, and music performances. The festival is held every year in May and June.

Charleston International Film Festival

The Charleston International Film Festival , held in November, showcases independent films from around the world. The festival features over 100 films as well as a number of special events, panels, and workshops.

Charleston Visitors Center

After exploring this list, one of the first places to go in Charleston SC is the Charleston Visitors Center. It provides a great background to the history and main tourist attractions in Charleston, South Carolina. The building close to Upper King even has an introductory video and a replica of part of a historic home. The staff at the Charleston Visitors Center is also happy to provide information about the best attractions and activities here. You can even snag discounts on tours.

Check out our list of other fantastic Charleston travel guides if you need more material.

Hotels and Places to Stay in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina

All these Charleston activities are useless if you don’t have anywhere to sleep.

But Charleston is a major tourist destination, so there are plenty of hotels and inns to suit various needs. Check out our list of the best places to stay in Charleston, SC . It includes our favorite hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts both in the historic downtown and on the beach.

10 of the Most Romantic Bed and Breakfasts in the Downtown Charleston Historic District

As a former innkeeper, I’d be remiss not to list a few local favorites. The  list of the most romantic bed and breakfasts in downtown Charleston  include such popular ones as Two Meeting Street Inn and the John Rutledge House. And all are within walking distance of everything you’ll want to do when you visit Charleston.

38 of the Best Hotels in Charleston

There are a ton of hotels here. Check out our list of the top hotels in Charleston we recommend, based on what amenities you’re looking for, their location, and their rates.

9 of the Best Boutique Hotels in Downtown Charleston, SC

Most of the best luxury boutique hotels in downtown Charleston, SC , are within walking distance of the best things to do here. You’ll also find out the best areas to stay in Charleston during your visit.

Must-Visit Neighborhoods Near Downtown Charleston

One of my personal favorite neighborhoods off the peninsula is  Park Circle, in North Charleston, SC . This is a funky, artsy, and very hipster area. It’s more than worth an afternoon spent poking around the shops, parks, restaurants, and bars.

Mount Pleasant , just across the Ravenel Bridge from Charleston, hosts nautical attractions like:

• The USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier at Patriots Point
• Shem Creek, where fishing boats dock and carousers watch the sunset over drinks
• Old Town Mount Pleasant, a charming historic neighborhood

It also has some of the best restaurants for Lowcountry cooking.

What About the Best Things to Do in Savannah, GA?

Taking a day trip from Charleston to Savannah is fantastic. Both for the destination, as long as the points to visit along the way.

Are there are plenty of things to do in Savannah, GA , to keep you busy over a long weekend.

Or read the best weekend road trips to take from Charleston . Every direction has something cool and unique to discover, you just need the transportation, the music, and a good road trip buddy or two.

Updated and republished: March 28, 2023

Related Hipster Charleston Guides You May Enjoy:

• 60 of the Best Free Things to Do in Charleston, SC
• Where to Find the Best Pizza in Charleston, SC: 4 Choices
• Your Guide to the Hottest Events in Charleston this Weekend
• Historic Downtown Charleston: A Hipster Guide to the Best Here

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

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 !

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charleston, SC

Written by Becca Blond and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 28, 2023

There is something about Charleston's charm that never gets old and keeps travelers returning year after year. With its walkable downtown, a legacy dating back to the 1700s, and easy-on-the-eyes architecture, this Southern port city is like no other place in America.

The Holy City is the kind of place where old and new intersect. You can spend a morning learning about the city's complicated history on a horse-drawn carriage ride and an evening staying very much in the present with a meal at one of its buzzy, innovative restaurants showcasing the best of Lowcountry cuisine. You'll find endless things to do here.

Make sure to pack some good walking shoes to see the attractions, because you'll want to explore as much of Charleston as possible on foot. Take a walk down centuries-old cobblestone streets in the historic district with its church towers and veranda-fronted homes. Stop to peek into Spanish moss-covered gardens in the alleys behind the graceful old mansions lining its waterfront around The Battery.

Or head to one of the many barrier islands just offshore to walk in the sand and play in the sea.

The city is also home to the oldest landscaped gardens in the U.S. and a few excellent museums. Check out our guide to learn more about Charleston's top attractions.

Middleton Place

Waterfront park, international african american museum, magnolia plantation & gardens, watch basket weavers at the old city market, take a boat to fort sumter national monument, uss yorktown and patriots point, stroll through the battery and white point gardens, see angel oak and johns island, south carolina aquarium, bike across the ravenel bridge, boone hall plantation, the charleston museum, drayton hall, old slave mart museum, nathaniel russell house and aiken-rhett house, cathedral of st. john the baptist and historic churches, calhoun mansion, tour historic homes at the festival of houses and gardens, map of attractions & things to do in charleston, sc, charleston - climate chart.

Home to America's oldest landscaped gardens, Middleton Place is a National Historic Landmark that began in 1675 as a rice plantation. Once the home of the Middleton family, whose lineage included two of the country's Founding Fathers, today it is a living history museum.

It tells its complicated, often dark story, which included the generations of enslaved labor, in a truthful manner. The Beyond the Fields: Enslavement at Middleton Place documentary is shown three times daily and recognizes the stories of "brutality, survival, contribution, and perseverance" of the people enslaved here.

Visitors can also tour the 1755 Middleton family home , where you'll see large garden rooms, rare books, porcelain, and family portraits. As well as paying a visit to the Stableyards, where you'll meet the heritage breed livestock.

The gardens are the real treat, however. Covering some 65 acres, they feature a magnificent series of descending terraces, hedged galleries, and pools, the grounds show off their symmetrical 17th-century European design. The gardens bloom year-round with rare camellias in the winter and azaleas in the spring. Walking tours of the gardens are included with admission and offered daily at the top of the hour between 10am and 3pm.

Look for Middleton Place on the Ashley River, about 15 miles north of downtown Charleston.

Official site: https://www.middletonplace.org

A place where tourists and locals gather to relax and enjoy the views of Charleston Harbor, the 12-acre Waterfront Park stretches along more than 1,000 feet of waterfront. Old-fashioned park benches and double swings face the water, where sailboats and larger ships are common sights.

Fountains, including the unusual Pineapple Fountain , are lighted at night, and seasonal flower gardens add splashes of color. The park's central location near the City Market and historic sights, along with its free Wi-Fi, make it even more popular.

Address: 1 Vendue, Charleston, South Carolina

After 20-years of planning and $100 million in costs, the International African American Museum (IAAM) opened in Gadsen's Wharf and brings Charleston's role in the slave trade to the forefront.

The museum's location is significant because Gadsen's Wharf was the U.S. entry point for more than 40 percent of captive Africans sold into slavery at auctions here beginning in 1783. In fact, it is believed that more than 80 percent of African Americans, including Michelle Obama, can trace one or more ancestors back to Charleston.

The museum's mission is to document the journey captive Africans were forced to take from the 1700s onward. The exhibitions in the nine galleries tell the unvarnished story of the brutality these enslaved people, and their descendants, endured from a local, national, and international perspective. It also has a Center for Family History that will serve as a first-of-its-kind resource for the study and advancement of African American genealogy.

The International African American Museum's site choice and building financial investment is one of several ways Charleston is owning up to the role it played in enslaving humans after years of downplaying it. The first came in 2015 when the Confederate flag was finally removed from the South Carolina State House. The city council also formally apologized for Charleston's role in slavery in 2018.

Official site: https://iaamuseum.org/

It's not just garden lovers who will be enchanted by the year-round beauty of Magnolia Plantation's extensive gardens. These are America's oldest publicly accessed gardens, first opened to visitors in 1870, although portions of them date to two centuries earlier. They are also the nation's last large-scale Romantic-style garden, in contrast to most show gardens where nature is controlled and shaped by formal beds, paths, and landscaping.

Nurtured by generation after generation of the same family, the gardens have grown as each subsequent owner added new features. You can take a guided tour of the house, visit an Antebellum cabin, take a boat tour, see exhibits, and take younger visitors to a nature center and petting zoo.

Address: 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: www.magnoliaplantation.com

One of the most popular things to do in Charleston is to browse through the old market building, a prominent landmark in the historic district. Lively and colorful, it is a good place for souvenir shopping and just absorbing the local atmosphere.

Vendors sell locally made handcrafts and traditional food products like stone-ground grits, but the prime souvenirs of Charleston are the beautiful sweetgrass baskets. As tourists watch fascinated, Gullah artisans in the open-air "sheds" alongside the market hall weave these intricate works of art from native Lowcountry rushes, creating treasures that are among the country's oldest and most highly prized traditional crafts. The techniques and patterns originated in West Africa, and these baskets are the quintessential souvenir of Charleston.

Built in 1841 in the Greek Revival style, the red sandstone building with green ironwork trim, along with its sheds, are among the more than 100 sites in the city listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Location: Between North and South Market streets

Official site: https://www.thecharlestoncitymarket.com

The American Civil War began on April 12, 1861, at Fort Sumter, when the Confederacy pummeled the federal fort in Charleston Harbor. At the end of the war, the American flag was once again raised over the remains of Fort Sumpter, exactly four years after the attack.

The ruins of the battered fort are well preserved, and National Park Rangers tell the story of Fort Sumter and how it helped shape history.

Visitors must ride to the island by boat, from the Visitor Education Center downtown at Liberty Square or from Patriots Point, a good chance to view the city from the water.

Official site: www.nps.gov/fosu/index.htm

Just across Charleston Harbor from the Historic District is Patriots Point, where you can board the USS Yorktown . This immense vessel was the tenth aircraft carrier to serve in the United States Navy, receiving the Presidential Unit Citation and earning 11 battle stars for service in World War II, as well as five battle stars for service in Vietnam.

The USS Yorktown was also the vessel selected to recover the Apollo 8 astronauts, and even made a film debut in the 1944 documentary The Fighting Lady. The USS Yorktown was retired to Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum in 1975. While at Patriots Point, you can also tour aircraft, submarines, and other maritime exhibits.

Address: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Official site: www.patriotspoint.org

The promenade along the seawall washed by the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, as they meet and form Charleston Harbor, became a public garden in 1837 but was fortified as Battery Ramsey when the Civil War began.

Historic mortars and cannons from that war, as well as a Confederate monument, are displayed here, but the main reason the park is a favorite place for tourists to stroll is that it is bordered by some of Charleston's grandest stately homes and mansions, and offers a spectacular view of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor.

Address: Murray Blvd, Charleston, South Carolina

Paying a visit to Angel Oak on Johns Island is well worth the pretty 20-minute drive from downtown. This magical tree is thought to be one of the oldest living oak trees east of the Mississippi. It is 65 feet tall, 25.5 feet wide, and provides shade to more than 17,2000 square feet.

The tree is thought to be between 300 and 400 years old . It is preserved by the city as a historical site and sees about 400,000 visitors each year.

There is more than just Angel Oak to see on Johns Island. The largest island in South Carolina , it has an undeveloped, still wild vibe throughout. The island is home to numerous live oak trees and draped in Spanish moss that will have you stopping to take pictures at every turn.

If the season is right, rent a kayak, SUP, or charter a small fishing boat to explore the salt marshes and rivers here. It's a wonderfully relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon and birdwatchers will rejoice at the number of species that can be spotted.

Johns Island is also a jumping-off point on the way to two of the region's most popular barrier island beaches on Kiawah and Folly Islands.

Folly Beach can get very crowded on hot summer days, and parking can be difficult, but the beach is one of the best around. Drive away from the central part of the beach on E. Arctic Ave., however, and you'll find fewer people and better parking.

Kiawah Island also has beautiful beaches and excellent golf.

One of the most popular things to do for families in Charleston is the South Carolina Aquarium. Despite its name, it isn't just home to underwater creatures. Birds, land-dwelling mammals, plants, and reptiles join the sea inhabitants in every kid's favorite Charleston attraction.

The emphasis is on participation, so in addition to the two-story, 385,000-gallon aquarium tank, where there are daily interactive shows, you'll find Shark Shallows, where you can touch sharks and rays, and a touch tank with starfish and other creatures.

To get a feel for the behind-the-scenes animal care, visitors can tour the aquarium's Sea Turtle Hospital - South Carolina's only hospital for sick and injured sea turtles. The aquarium's best-loved resident is Caretta, a 220-pound loggerhead sea turtle that lives in the Great Ocean Tank.

Official site: http://scaquarium.org

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge across the Cooper River, joining downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant, became a well-loved landmark immediately upon its completion in 2005. Its sleek cable-stay design is more than just a pretty bridge: it is built to withstand winds in excess of 300 miles per hour and a 7.4-scale earthquake, and even to prevent collisions with ships.

Along with its multiple traffic lanes, the bridge includes a shared bicycle-pedestrian path named Wonders' Way, and walking or biking across it is a favorite activity for its sweeping views of Charleston.

One of America's oldest working plantations, the 1681 Boone Hall is best known for its moss-draped, three-quarter-mile Avenue of Oaks and for preserving original cabins of enslaved people. The highly photogenic trees that frame the approach to Boone Hall were planted in 1743 by the son of Major John Boone, the original owner.

Crops have been continuously grown here for more than three centuries, and you can buy fruits, berries, and vegetables at their Boone Hall Farms Market, close to the plantation on Hwy. 17.

Address: 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Official site: www.boonehallplantation.com/

Known as "America's First Museum," The Charleston Museum was founded in 1773 under the Charleston Library Society. Its collections are vast, arranged in a number of permanent exhibits that begin with Native Americans and early settlers in the Lowcountry History Hall , where you can see rare slave badges and early tools used in rice growing.

Exhibit areas illustrate early weaponry, life during the Revolution, and Charleston's role in the Civil War. The Early Days gallery displays the often-quirky collections of 19th-century world travelers, including an Egyptian mummy and case and Greek and Roman antiquities.

The Loeblein Gallery of Charleston Silver shows southern-made silver through the Victorian era (including George Washington's christening cup), and the Historic Textiles Gallery shows changing examples from the museum's outstanding collection of historic needlework, costumes, and textiles. Kidstory brings the history of Charleston and the Lowcountry to life in hands-on exhibits.

Address: 360 Meeting Street, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: www.charlestonmuseum.org

The elegant Drayton Hall is the oldest unrestored plantation house in America still open to the public. Similar to other local plantations, Drayton Hall offers guided house tours, but where it differs is that the house itself (its walls, floors, and fireplaces) remains virtually undisturbed, giving a rare glimpse into the past.

Dating from 1738, Drayton Hall Plantation was one of the few to survive the Civil War intact. Its interiors still feature ornamental details and original 18th-century craftsmanship. Other personal touches also remain, including as a children's growth chart dating back more than 300 years.

Drayton Hall also acknowledges the role it played in the larger history of the American South, including its abuse of enslaved people. The plantation's African-American cemetery, dating from about 1790, is among the oldest African-American cemeteries in the nation still in use.

Many travelers chose to combine a visit to Drayton Hall and Middleton Place . And you can purchase a joint entry ticket on Drayton Hall's website.

Official site: http://www.draytonhall.org

In the heart of the French Quarter, near the French Huguenot Church, the Old Slave Mart Museum is set inside the building where enslaved people were auctioned prior to the Civil War and is a somber, but important part of a Charleston trip focusing on history.

The tour is self-guided, with signage explaining the history. There are also personal accounts from enslaved individuals, artifacts, and audio and visual exhibits. It is a small but deeply affecting museum that gives a sobering view of history.

A block away is the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon , where costumed guides relate a history of pirates and patriots who were once imprisoned here.

Address: 6 Chalmers Street, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: http://www.oldslavemartmuseum.com

After walking past so many aristocratic mansions with their verandahs and imposing facades, you'll certainly be curious to look inside. A number are open as house museums, some furnished and decorated as they were in their heyday, and all giving a glimpse of upper-crust life in old Charleston.

Two of these are maintained by the Historic Charleston Foundation. The 1808 Nathaniel Russell House , at 51 Meeting Street, is among America's most important Neoclassical homes, known for its free-standing, three-story staircase and its ornate plasterwork. It is furnished with part of the organization's valuable collection of fine and decorative art, and is also especially known for its beautiful gardens.

Another notable Foundation property is the Aiken-Rhett House , at 48 Elizabeth Street. The 1820 home is unique in having remained in the same family for 142 years until it became a museum.

Official site: https://www.historiccharleston.org

Remarkable historic churches are scattered throughout Charleston, and each has a story to tell. Among the city's most interesting is the brownstone Cathedral of St. John the Baptist , a neo-Gothic structure built to replace the previous cathedral, which was lost in the devastating 1861 fire that destroyed much of the city. The pews are carved from Flemish oak, and the three original altars are made of white marble. It has some notable stained glass windows as well.

Among Charleston's other interesting churches are the Romanesque-style Circular Congregational Church , with colonial burial grounds dating from 1695, and the French Huguenot Church , home to the oldest continuously active Huguenot congregation in the United States.

St. Michael's Episcopal Church , a National Historic Landmark, dates to 1751 and is known for its four stained glass windows by Tiffany Company of New York and for the cedar pew where George Washington sat in 1791.

Address: 120 Broad Street, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: https://charlestoncathedral.com

Representing a different era from the Historic Charleston Foundation's antebellum homes, the 1876 Italianate Calhoun Mansion is a prime example of Gilded Age décor and taste. Some of its 30 main rooms have Tiffany decorations, and they are filled (some might say overfilled, but that was the taste of the times) with outstanding collections of decorative arts of the late 19th-century era.

The ballroom has a 45-foot-high ceiling, and behind the mansion, you can stroll through the formal English gardens.

Address: 16 Meeting Street, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: www.calhounmansion.net/

Organized by the Historic Charleston Foundation, the Annual Festival of Houses and Gardens features tours and educational programs specifically geared toward architectural and gardening enthusiasts.

Held during the peak of the blooming season, the Festival offers guests the rare chance to see inside the city's private homes and gardens. Approximately 150 of America's most distinctive historic houses, spread throughout 12 colonial and antebellum neighborhoods, are open to tour.

Official site: www.historiccharleston.org/Events/Annual-Festival-of-Houses-and-Gardens.aspx

More on South Carolina

9 Fun Things to Do Near Charleston, SC: Best Places to Visit Nearby!

By: Author Martina Roldan

Posted on Published: July 28, 2020  - Last updated: October 4, 2023

If you are in the mood for real southern charm, this is the city for you.

Wine tastings, sunset sailing, and rich history, are just some of the aspects of Charlston

From unforgettable carriage rides to exploring wonderful nature, South Carolina is full of surprises.

See our list of the fun things to do near Charleston, SC to make your planning easier.

1. Francis Marion National Forest

2967 Steed Creek Rd Huger, SC 29450 (843) 336-2200

If you are looking for cheap activities near Charleston, here is something for you.

This forest has amazing trails for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

Why We Recommend Going Here

Here you can go paddling and explore the forest from the water.

Also, there are many fishing and hunting opportunities.

If you are looking for a weekend getaway, there are campgrounds near hiking trails.

Distance From Charleston

Distance from Charleston to Francis Marion National Forest is 32 miles.

It takes 45 minutes to drive there.

Recommended Hotel Near Francis Marion National Forest: Hyatt Place North Charleston

2. Barrier Island Beach and Wildlife Outing

750 Front St Georgetown, SC 29440 (843) 310-8065

Do you want to take your better half for a long walk on a sandy beach?

Barrier Island Beach is one of the most romantic places to visit close to Charleston.

There are 45 miles of protected coastline to explore.

If you want privacy, this is a tour for you.

Collecting shells on the beach is a great family-friendly activity your little ones will love.

Barrier island is 71.4 miles away.

It is an hour and 15 minutes drive via US-17 N.

Recommended Hotel Near Barrier Island Beach and Wildlife Outing: Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort

Related: Best Things to Do in Charleston

3. Morning Full Swing Golf Clinic

69 Pinehurst Ln Pawleys Island, SC 29585 (843) 650-2272

Are you looking for things to do and see near Charleston?

Visit a golf course and get a lesson from experienced instructors.

You don’t have to be a professional to enjoy this class.

Even total beginners are welcome.

Every participant has 3 instructors.

You will also receive before and after video analysis about your play.

This golf course is 72 miles from Charleston.

You will drive for an hour and a half to get there.

Recommended Hotel Near Morning Full Swing Golf Clinic: Ellington at Wachesaw East

Related: Fun Things to Do in Charleston, SC with Kids

4. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

40 Patriots Point Rd Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 (843) 884-2727

One of the cool places to go with your family is this historical attraction.

At Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum you can see the World War II aircraft carrier.

Other exhibits include the Patriots Point Museum, a fleet of National Historic Landmark ships, and more.

This museum will spark a love for history in your kiddos.

You will see artifacts and learn about the Cold Warr, Vietnam War, and so much more.

Experience life as a sailor at an overnight camping tour of USS Yorktown.

The museum is just 5.4 miles from Charleston downtown.

It takes a 12 minute drive to get there.

Recommended Hotel Near Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum: The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina

5. Electric Bike Tour: Coastal Cruise Low Country Roads & Shores

1470 Ben Sawyer Blvd 10 Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 (843) 284-3120

There are many beautiful places to see near Charleston.

Riding electric bikes allows you to see historical and natural areas in Mt Pleasant.

Riding a bike will help you cool off on a hot summer day.

You will stop at very interesting locations along the way.

At Shem Creek Park you will see shrimp boats, and occasionally dolphins and manatees.

Other stops are Pitt Street Bridge, Sullivan’s Island, etc.

Mt Pleasant is 7.4 miles away.

It is approximately 15 minutes drive from Charleston.

Recommended Hotel Near Electric Bike Tour – Coastal Cruise Low Country Roads & Shores: Comfort Inn & Suites Patriots Point

Related: Best Restaurants in Mount Pleasant

6. Charleston Tea Garden

6617 Maybank Hwy Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487 (843) 559-0383

The Charleston Tea Garden is a hidden gem nearby.

This is the only garden of its kind in North America.

The entrance is free, but you can book trolley tours if you want.

You will get to walk around the tea factory and to learn about tea production.

If you take a trolley tour you will ride around the gardens for 45 minutes.

They make a stop at the art greenhouse and a gift shop.

This location is 21.4 miles from Charleston.

Take SC-700 W to get there in half an hour.

Recommended Hotel Near Charleston Tea Garden: Andell Inn

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Charleston

7. Beaufort’s Horse & Carriage History Tour

930 Bay St Beaufort, SC 29902 (843) 476-7789

Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina.

The town has a specific architecture that will take you back in time.

There are many exceptional landmarks you can see here.

Get the chance to ride in a carriage around this beautiful historic town.

See picturesque Antebellum homes, historic churches, and movie sites from Forrest Gump.

Beaufort is 70.1 miles from Charleston.

It is an hour and a half drive.

Recommended Hotel Near Beaufort’s Horse & Carriage History Tour: The Beaufort Inn

Related: Best Beaches in Charleston, SC

8. Kaminski House Museum

1003 Front St Georgetown, SC 29440 (843) 546-7706

Do you want to see some historic attractions near Charleston, South Carolina?

Take your family on a short trip to the Kaminski House Museum from the 18th century.

On this tour, you will listen to incredible stories from South Carolina’s history.

The house is well preserved. Observe furniture, antiques, and paintings through the house.

The house is 60.6 miles from Charleston.

It is one hour and 10 minutes drive.

Recommended Hotel Near Kaminski House Museum: Hampton Inn Georgetown-Marina

9. Civil War Reconstruction Tour of Beaufort by Van

1006 Bay St Beaufort, SC 29902 (843) 838-2746

Reconstruction Era National Park has many Civil War landmarks.

It is a place where the Union Headquarters for the South was.

You will see locations of 16 hospitals from the Civil War.

Also, the tour will stop by the Brick Baptist Church that Dr. Martin Luther King attended.

Drive for an hour and a half on US-17 S.

Recommended Hotel Near Civil War Reconstruction Tour of Beaufort by Van: Comfort Suites near MCAS Beaufort

9 Fun Things to Do that Are Near Charleston, SC for [currentyear]

• Francis Marion National Forest
• Barrier Island Beach and Wildlife
• Morning Full Swing Golf Clinic
• Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
• Coastal Cruise Low Country Roads & Shores
• Charleston Tea Garden
• Beaufort’s Horse & Carriage History Tour
• Kaminski House Museum
• Civil War Reconstruction Tour of Beaufort

Inside A Ma Maniére Beach: A New Luxury, Black-Owned Beachfront Property Near Charleston

A Ma Maniére Beach Resort in Folly Beach, South Carolina is luxury living for the culture and the beachfront stay (and home) of my dreams.

Simone Cherí • Sep 13, 2024

Staring out at the morning waves of the Atlantic as the sun made its glistening entrance, I realized A Ma Maniére Beach Resort was the home of my dreams. Lying there, gazing at Basquiat’s artwork above the spacious king bed, I thought of the Black families who once called the Carolina coastlines home. I realized how special this  Black-owned property  was and how it would create memories for others as unforgettable as the sensations I was experiencing at that moment.

With real-life examples of the fight for waterfront property, like that of the Reels family in the 2023 documentary  Silver Dollar Road , there aren’t enough words to underscore the significance of  Black beach ownership , especially in the Carolinas. But thanks to serial entrepreneur James Whitner, the culture now has a new space to bask in the convergence of culture, luxury, and community.

A Ma Maniére Beach combines a secluded beachfront stay with accommodations that exude luxury and Black culture. In this exclusive preview, discover where coastal elegance meets cultural storytelling for a beach getaway that’s as special as it is serene.

The Brand Behind The Beachfront Stay

Founded in Atlanta in 2014, A Ma Maniére began as a single location selling luxury men’s apparel, footwear, and accessories. It has since grown into a family of brands — A Ma Maniére, Social Status, and APB — leveraging its high-end aesthetic to land exclusive collaboration deals with Jordan and Nike. While each brand has a distinct voice, the common mission to “uplift, inspire, and push culture forward” unites them.

“The Whitaker Group started as a dream rooted in my experiences growing up in Pittsburgh,” visionary founder James Whitner shared with Travel Noire. “I saw the power of culture, community, and connection early on, and I knew I wanted to create something that spoke to those values. It all began with a single boutique, but even then it was about more than just transactions — it was about telling stories, elevating our culture, and giving our people a space to feel seen and heard.”

Redefining Immersive Luxury Lifestyle Experiences

After finding success in the  luxury fashion  world, Whitner set his sights on expanding the lifestyle brand. With a presence in Washington, D.C. and Houston, and plans to enter Harlem (NYC) and London (UK), A Ma Maniére’s parent company, The Whitaker Group (TWG), was ready to make its next big move beyond retail. In 2018, TWG opened A Ma Maniére Living, an innovative hotel concept in D.C. that redefines the way guests shop and stay in the nation’s capital.

On expanding, Whitner said, “We’ve expanded our footprint beyond retail into hospitality, luxury, and lifestyle experiences because we believe in creating spaces where our community can thrive in every aspect of life. That also means infiltrating spaces where they don’t expect us, like luxury. Redefining luxury on our terms — making sure our stories are told authentically and with respect — is what we’ve been working towards.”

Now, TWG is preparing for the debut of its newest property — A Ma Maniére Beach. This standout offers a stellar luxury coastal living experience unlike any stateside stay you’ve experienced before.

Beachfront Luxury Meets Black Culture’s Legacy In Folly Beach

A Ma Maniére Beach is a three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom home located on the northern end of South Carolina’s Folly Beach Island. Whitner identified the area’s exclusivity, laid-back charm, and complicated history as motivators behind expanding into the area.

“It’s a place where we could blend the coastal lifestyle with our commitment to storytelling and creating spaces that feel exclusive yet deeply connected to the community,” he explained.

Upon arrival, one of the brand’s 12 core values — “obsess the details” — is evident in the home’s design. The striking three-story structure stands out from its neighbors, with a matte-black exterior towering over nearby properties. Inside, the home impresses with unobstructed ocean views, an open-floor concept, and high ceilings that capture the airy elegance of beach living. Modern touches, like technology-controlled lighting and window treatments, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an in-home elevator, enhance the luxurious feel of the property.

Decor Details With A Story To Tell

The decor at A Ma Maniére Beach blends the natural beauty of Folly Beach with cultural elements that celebrate Black excellence and history. Colorful artworks and accent pieces contrast with earth-tone furnishings in each light-filled room. According to Whitner, the art selection was essential. After all, it’s not every day you can experience masterpieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Pat Phillips, Julian Gaines, and other renowned artists in such an intimate setting.

“[The] mix of well-known and celebrated contemporary artists encourages guests to dig deeper, to find the stories and connections within each piece,” said Whitner.

Thought-provoking pieces adorn various spaces, such as a rare collection of JET Magazine covers in one of the guest bedrooms. More than just visual elements, A Ma Maniére Beach’s aesthetic is designed to remind guests of “the strength of our culture and how far we’ve come” in a space “where history and future possibilities meet.”

“Every detail tells a story, honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future, all within a luxurious, tranquil setting,” Whitner reflected.

How To Book A Stay At A Ma Maniére Beach

Located just 30 minutes from  downtown Charleston , this short-term stay won’t be found on any booking platforms. A Ma Maniére Beach is part of a growing network of properties that the brand is positioning as a membership community. Similar to SoHo House, Whitner envisions a nationwide portfolio of exclusive locations and events offering members unparalleled access to culturally enriching, luxurious experiences.

Though not available as a traditional rental,  A Ma Maniére  Beach aims to continue creating unique, elevated spaces for its community of innovators and creatives. During my weekend stay, I couldn’t help but imagine the future memories of Black joy this space will hold. While I may not live there (yet), I can rest easy knowing that a little slice of heaven awaits in  Lowcountry South Carolina .

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Bus stations and stops in North Charleston, SC

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