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Charleston, SC   Travel Guide

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27 Best Things To Do in Charleston, SC

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

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The Battery The Battery free

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

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

Charleston Walking Tours Charleston Walking Tours

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

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

Waterfront Park Waterfront Park free

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

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

Popular Tours

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

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from $ 50.00

Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

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from $ 87.60

Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

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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.

Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise

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Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston

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Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour with Unitarian Church Graveyard

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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.

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 a number of films and TV shows, including "The Notebook" and the long-running soap opera "Days of our Lives."

Downtown Charleston Food Tour

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Charleston Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse

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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.

90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

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Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour

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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. 

2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston

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Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket

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Real Hauntings of Charleston! (Small Group Ghost Tour)

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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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The 21 Best Things to Do in Charleston

By Allston McCrady

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.

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

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.

Hannah Towey

Olivia Morelli

Steph Koyfman

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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17 essential things to do in Charleston, South Carolina

Oct 28, 2021 • 8 min read

The city of Charleston is a unique blend of historic charm and modern entertainment © Getty Images

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.

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 colorful homes of Rainbow Row and the Battery and White Point Gardens on the waterfront at the southern tip of the peninsula. Pick up a map at the visitor center .

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 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.

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 historic sites in and around Charleston.

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 art High Wire. 

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.

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.

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.

Tour the only tea garden in the US

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 32,000ft concrete skatepark in North Charleston.

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.

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.

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.

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 with a focus on the South.

You might also like: Charleston vs Savannah: how to choose between the two Southern cities Best parks in Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston Travel Guide

Discover the best restaurants, hotels, and things to do with this highly curated guide to the Holy City.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Charleston, South Carolina, has been named Travel + Leisure readers’ favorite U.S. city in our “World's Best Awards” survey year after year for several convincing reasons. While the Southern port city is known for centuries-old cobblestones and horse-drawn carriages, its dynamism and forward momentum are apparent across all facets of the city — from its top-tier culinary feats to its ever-evolving roster of shops, museums, and must-see attractions.  

Alongside abiding favorites and famous views — shopping on King Street, wandering down Rainbow Row, snagging a table at Fig or The Ordinary, venturing out to one of the nearby beaches — the city continuously boasts a variety of exciting openings and relative newcomers that quickly ingrain themselves in Charleston culture. Stop by Babas on Cannon for European-inspired dishes, an espresso, and maybe an aperitif or two. Classic southern Italian meets Lowcountry at Sorelle, an all-day restaurant, bar, and market spanning two stories of 88 Broad Street. Food tends to be a popular topic of conversation in Charleston, as the F&B scene is paramount for most visitors, but there’s plenty to do in between meals. When you’ve reached the point where you can't fathom eating another bite, venture to neighboring Mount Pleasant, where you’ll find a curation of local art at Charleston Artist Collective and a stellar sunset overlooking Charleston Harbor from Pitt Street Bridge .

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Folly Beach is a beautiful white-sand beach with restaurants and bars just steps from the shore.
• Rodney Scott's BBQ is helmed by a 2018 James Beard Award recipient of the same name, who went on to appear in the Netflix show Chef's Table: Barbecue .
• Charleston Sailing Adventures provides some of the best views of the Battery and the majestic Ravenel Bridge.
• The yearly Spoleto Festival USA brings over 100 performances ranging from opera and ballet to jazz and bluegrass.
• Sorelle is a new Italian restaurant with an extensive housemade bread and pasta program, an antipasti counter, and a wine room.

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Charleston or you, understandably, keep coming back to the Holy City, this T+L Charleston travel guide will help you get the most out of your visit — whenever you choose to go.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Best Time To Visit

Charleston attracts international and domestic tourists all year round, but you’ll find different weather, events, and downtown decor depending on the month you choose to visit. 

Rain is relatively common in spring, but it's arguably one of the best times of the year in Charleston, with temperatures varying from 60 to 80 degrees and Southern blooms like wisteria, jasmine, and azaleas coming out in full force. The peak of wisteria season ("wisteria hysteria") falls in mid-March, right after the Charleston Food + Wine Festival , where the Lowcountry shows off its diverse, world-renowned food culture on a larger stage. Charleston Jazz Festival happens in April, a month that also marks the opening of Charleston Farmers Market’s regular season in Marion Square. The beloved Festival of Houses and Gardens concludes mid-month, followed by Spoleto , a 17-day performing arts festival that takes over the city from late May to early June. If you’re headed to Charleston in the spring, just be prepared for crowds, traffic, lines, and hard-to-find parking. 

Fall is also a popular time to visit Charleston, as the weather is defined by moderate days and crisp evenings. Oyster season begins in early October; and historic house tours return after a long, hot summer. Social media listings are your best tool for finding local oyster roasts, but you'll need to purchase tickets in advance for the Preservation Society of Charleston's Fall Tours . Choose from guided tours through private homes, self-guided strolls through Charleston's most beautiful gardens, or walking tours down the historic streets. 

Winters in the Southeast are typically mild and occasionally rainy; temperatures rarely drop low enough for snow flurries. That said, December is a magical time in Charleston. Historic homes lining lower King, Meeting, Legare, Church, Broad, and South Battery Streets are dressed to the nines in breathtaking magnolia garland, cheerful wreaths, and flickering candles in the windows. The annual Holiday Festival of Lights , a three-mile driving tour through James Island County Park, is a favorite family-friendly activity in the evenings. February is the unofficial start of festival season, as Charleston sets up for the Southeastern Wildlife Exhibition ( SEWE ), a weekend celebration of all things outdoors—including art, sporting exhibitions, and the can't-miss dock dog competition. 

Although coastal breezes provide some relief, summer’s heat — think high 80s and low 90s — thunderstorms, and humidity make it less than ideal for tourism, but there are still a few reasons to visit Charleston in June, July, and August. Namely, the city’s access to sand and salt water. Just a 15 to 30-minute drive from downtown, Sullivan's Island, Isle of Palms, and Folly Beach bring their own unique appeal to beach-goers. Add Kiawah Island to your summer beach bucket list if you're prepared to drive a little further. 

Read More : The Best Times to Visit Charleston to Save Money, Hit the Beach, and Avoid the Crowds

How to Get There

Charleston International Airport (CHS) is about a 20-minute drive from most Charleston attractions. Renting a car is optional, as Ubers and Lyfts are readily available, and parking can be tricky — particularly if you’re headed to the beach or attempting to find a spot downtown. 

Best Hotels & Resorts

The loutrel.

Travel + Leisure readers named The Loutrel, which opened in November 2021, the best hotel in Charleston — a title earned thanks to its upscale Lowcountry style, rooftop cocktail service, amenities, and iconic downtown location. The boutique hotel’s front doors open to State Street, just a short walk from Charleston sights like The Battery, the Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park, and Rainbow Row. 

If a boutique hotel with thoughtful touches at every turn is your favorite kind of accommodation, book a room at The Pinch in the Ansonborough neighborhood. More than just a 22-room property, the hotel also features three furnished residences — which can be reserved for stays of 30 days or longer — a spa, daily complimentary breakfast, and a 40-seat oyster bar, known as The Quinte. 

The Ryder Hotel

Billed as a “boutique escape-meets-experience hotel,” The Ryder Hotel may have already made an appearance or two on your Instagram feed. The bright, airy rooms and common spaces have a relaxed feel to them — the exact kind of atmosphere you’d expect when visiting a coastal city. 

The Dewberry

The Dewberry, which describes itself as "offering old-world charm with a distinctive modern edge," is right downtown, just a block from King Street. On the main floor, you'll find the cozy Living Room, where you can refresh with coffee or cocktails or grab a bite to eat. Its rooftop restaurant and bar, Citrus Club, offers unparalleled views of Charleston and equally-as-photogenic tropical drinks.

Emeline is set in the heart of historic Charleston and home to Frannie and The Fox, an Italian eatery that has hotel guests and locals alike flocking to the wood-fired pizza and outdoor dining options. After brunch or before dinner, take one of the custom Emeline bikes out for a spin around the neighborhood.

Post House Inn

Guests at the expertly curated boutique inn and tavern — born out of the creative minds behind Charleston firm Basic Projects — enjoy Southern hospitality in Old Village Mount Pleasant, a 10-minute drive from downtown. The Post House Inn is the definition of a bright, photogenic escape—and it’s only a block away from the waterfront.

Zero George Street

Three restored historic homes and two brick carriage homes house 16 luxurious rooms that exude rest and relaxation. After a long bike ride around the neighborhood (on complimentary beach cruisers, of course), begin your evening with a cocktail in the outdoor courtyard before tucking into the seasonal fare offered at the on-site Zero Restaurant.

Read More: The 15 Best Hotels in Charleston

Best Restaurants

A 2023 newcomer, Sorelle brings its extensive housemade bread and pasta program, antipasti counter, and wine room (among numerous other features) to Broad Street. Its Italian menu is spearheaded by Chefs Adam Sobel and Nick Dugan, but it falls under the umbrella of acclaimed Chef Michael Min’s award-winning Mina Group.

A 20-plus-year Charleston veteran, FIG continues to fill its tables with both regulars as well as those hoping to get their first taste of Chef Mike Lata’s fresh fish entrees and seasonal dishes. Reservations for the in-demand restaurant can be hard to come by, and count yourself lucky if you can sneak into a seat at the bar. 

Rodney Scott’s BBQ

The South Carolina-born pitmaster rose to barbecue fame after winning Best Chef Southeast at the 2018 James Beard Awards and appearing in the Netflix show, Chef's Table: Barbecue. Complete with a drive-through and bright blue picnic tables, Rodney Scott's BBQ is home to every Southern delicacy you could possibly imagine: collard greens, hush puppies, banana pudding, and crunchy pig skins.

They don't take reservations and you might see a line out the door, but don't let that keep you from the fresh seafood at local-favorite hotspot 167 Raw. The wait is worth it for the crispy oysters, scallop po'boys, and ever-changing menu of "frozie" cocktails. 

Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop

Charleston restaurateur and entrepreneur Brooks Reitz is the mastermind behind Leon's (as well as Little Jack's Tavern , Monza Pizza Bar , Melfi's , and Jack Rudy Cocktail Company ). Set in a former body shop, Leon's features a relaxed atmosphere with top-of-the-line fried chicken, char-grilled oysters, cocktails, and soft-serve ice cream. A reservation for larger parties is advised, but last-minute diners and small groups can usually find space either inside or on the spacious outdoor patio.

Reservations and outdoor dining options? Yes to both. A stagnant menu? Not at all. Chez Nou, found on Instagram @cheznouscharleston , posts its European-inspired lunch and dinner menu each day: two appetizers, two entrees, and two desserts.

The Ordinary

Booking a table at The Ordinary is recommended as the raw bar and delicious libations are in high demand. The former bank building, which sits smack dab in the middle of King Street, can only be described as “buzzing,” with guests excitedly devouring local peel-and-eat shrimp, raw oysters, and other concoctions born from the sheer genius of The Ordinary’s chefs.

Best Things to Do

Folly beach, sullivan's island, and isle of palms.

Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure

Going to the beach when visiting Charleston is a no-brainer; the pristine South Carolina coast can't be beaten. Most locals prefer Sullivan's Island, with its access to a variety of restaurants and bars just a few blocks back from the beachfront, while the neighboring Isle of Palms is ideal for families). The crowds of Folly Beach can be intimidating, but just keep driving further down E. Arctic Ave; you'll find more parking and more room on the beach as you move away from the center of town.

Walk & Talk Charleston

You can explore downtown Charleston yourself, but you may miss out on some important facts, architectural tidbits, and historical insight, the kind you’ll find on a guided tour. Founder of Walk & Talk Charleston Tyler Page Wright Friedman and her team offer a variety of fascinating tours, including one exploring the LGBTQ+ history of Charleston, a walking tour focused on the role of horses throughout Charleston’s history, and a tour featuring Charleston and the Lowcountry’s natural history. 

Charleston Sailing Adventures

Take in the Charleston skyline from the water by booking a sunset sail around the harbor. Don't forget your phone or a camera—you won't get better views of the Battery or the majestic Ravenel Bridge anywhere else.

Coastal Expeditions

Across the Cooper River and Charleston Harbor lies Shem Creek, where you can rent kayaks or paddle boards to paddle alongside dolphins and explore the surrounding creek and marsh. Once you're done for the day, follow up your adventure with a drink or meal at one of the many restaurants in the area.

The surrounding Lowcountry, filled with live oak trees and Spanish moss, is just as picturesque as the historic homes downtown. Twenty minutes from downtown is Angel Oak, a several-hundred-year-old live oak that shades over 17,200 square feet. The best part? You can leave your wallet at home; it's free for all guests.

Palmetto Carriage Works

Call it touristy, but taking in Charleston's history from a horse carriage is one of the most popular tours in the area. Choose from a personal ride with just your party or join in the larger tours as your guide takes you around the quaint Charleston streets.

Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie

History buffs flock to Charleston, which played a key role in both the Revolutionary and the Civil Wars. Fort Sumter can only be accessed by boat, but Fort Moultrie is a quick visit after a day exploring Sullivan's Island.

Read More : 28 Best Things to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

Neighborhoods to Visit

Downtown Charleston : Otherwise known as the peninsula, downtown Charleston includes several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own history pick of restaurants, shops, and iconic Charleston landmarks. South of Broad, the area below Broad Street, is where you'll find The Battery; Harleston Village is mostly filled with locals and College of Charleston students who frequent Colonial Lake. Cannonborough/Elliotborough is alight with creativity and delicious treats; pick up a cupcake from Sugar Bakeshop while walking along Cannon Street. The French Quarter is a classic stop for Charleston first-timers; Charleston City Market , the Gibbes Museum of Art , and the South Carolina Historical Society are all in the area.

Mount Pleasant : Crossing the Ravenel Bridge leads you to Mount Pleasant. Equal parts suburb, shopping destinations, bars, restaurants, and outdoor activities, Mount Pleasant is one of the largest towns in South Carolina. While there, head to Old Village Historic District to catch the unparalleled views from Pitt Street Bridge—which used to connect the town to the adjacent Sullivan's Island.

Sullivan's Island : A two-and-a-half-mile-long barrier island, Sullivan's Island is more than just a beach town. Besides the sandy shore, there are several popular restaurants (including Poe's Tavern , The Obstinate Daughter , and Home Team BBQ ), bike paths, and some of the dreamiest beach houses you'll find in the Charleston area.

Isle of Palms (IOP) : Alternating houses of residents and renters can be found along the main road on Isle of Palms, Palm Boulevard. Connected to both Sullivan's Island and Mount Pleasant, IOP is also home to Wild Dunes Resort and Golf Course.

Daniel Island : Between the Cooper and Wando Rivers, Daniel Island is one of Charleston's best places for outdoor activities. Golf courses, parks, and trails are easily accessible and can be reached in just 20 minutes from downtown.

Johns Island : The largest island in South Carolina, Johns Island is flanked by James Island, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Here you'll find the famous Angel Oak tree and several golf courses, both private and public.

James Island : Take in the marsh views and iconic trees on James Island, an area once used as mostly farmland. For travelers looking for slightly lower accommodation prices than what you'll find downtown, James Island features several more budget-friendly hotels and rentals to choose from.

Folly Island : Beach bars, cafes, souvenir shops, seafood markets, taco shacks, and golf cart rentals—what else does a beach town need? Folly Island is one of the most popular South Carolina beach destinations due to its proximity to downtown Charleston and the sheer amount of entertainment for beach-goers of all ages.

Kiawah and Seabrook Islands : Privacy and quiet are two things you'll find upon venturing further out into the gated communities of Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Course , a five-star hotel with unbeatable ocean views, is pure luxury and relaxation—a must-stay for special occasions and celebrations. You can't get on either island without a pass, but Kiawah's Beachwalker Park is open to the public.

North Charleston : Many Charleston travel guides make the mistake of leaving out North Charleston—which is continuously adding new places to eat, drink, and stay. Restaurants like Jackrabbit Filly and EVO Pizza are worth the trek when the peninsula becomes overcrowded by the influx of summer tourists.

Best Shopping 

King Street is known as the shopping Mecca of Charleston—with stores ranging from local companies like Old Whaling Company , Berlin’s , and Beau & Ro to name brands like YETI, J.Crew, and Brooks Brothers. 

Croghan's Jewel Box

Family-owned jewelry store Croghan's appears on just about every Charleston list you'll read, and for good reason. Entering the King Street store is like entering another world—diamond rings, antique lockets, and pewter keepsakes are just some of the treasures you'll find around the shop.

Lake Pajamas

If you forget your pajamas, or you desperately want to add another striped set to your closet, the Southern brand’s store is open on Lower King. Cozy robes, breezy dressers, and even options for kids are available inside the two-story shop. 

Preservation Society of Charleston

The Preservation Society of Charleston brings you the best from local artisans and brands, including Brackish Bow Ties , Smithey Ironware , and J. Stark . They can be found alongside books from Charleston authors and other unique items that make memorable gifts for loved ones or tokens for yourself.

Hampden Clothing

Designer names run rampant at Hampden Clothing, a luxury store flanked by its sister shops, James and Small, on King Street. Go in with an open wallet and you'll leave feeling seriously stylish; Carolina Herrera, Mansur Gavriel, and Golden Goose are just some of the familiar brands stocked at Hampden.

Shopping Outside of King Street

Cigar factory.

The Cigar Factory, which is on the National Historic Register, features a number of shops along East Bay Street, including textiles at Fritz Porter , non-toxic nail salon The Water Room , and gourmet food emporium Mercantile & Mash . One of the best parts? Unlike King Street, parking at the Cigar Factory is painless and free.

Burbage’s Grocery

Located on Broad Street, right below Colonial Lake, is Burbage's Grocery, a family-run specialty grocery store locals return to again and again. You can pop in for lunch— there's a fully functioning deli in the back—or stop for locally brewed beer, hot sauce, and freshly baked goods.

Charleston establishments may not stay as open as late as larger cities like New York or Los Angeles, but King Street is far from sleepy. Throngs of College of Charleston students and bachelor and bachelorette parties frequent establishments like Uptown Social , Prohibition , and The Cocktail Club . 

If you’re looking for something more lowkey, though, a cocktail, a glass of wine, or a quick nightcap are best enjoyed at a variety of local favorites, including Bar Rollins , Babas on Cannon , Bin 152 , Graft Wine Shop , and The Bar & Patio at Husk .

Other Resources

Getting around.

Car services like Uber and Lyft are common and relatively affordable in Charleston, but it’s also a walkable and bikeable city. If most of your excursions and explorations are downtown, bring walking shoes or keep an eye out for pedicabs —an enjoyable way to get back to your hotel after dinner or a round of drinks. If you like to explore on two wheels, rent a beach cruiser from Bilda Bike on King Street, which offers daily, weekly, and monthly options. 

CARTA is Charleston's bus service with a variety of routes throughout the city as well as several Park and Ride locations. Downtown Area Shuttle ( DASH ) offers three routes on the peninsula (free).

Packing Tips 

A mix of beach gear, walking-appropriate clothing and shoes, and a few elevated pieces should make it in your suitcase before heading to Charleston. Breathable fabrics, like linen and cotton, help make the heat and humidity a bit more tolerable. No matter the season, you’ll want sunscreen, bug spray, and an umbrella.

Read More: The Ultimate Charleston Packing List

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Top Things to Do

The 17 Best Things to Do in Charleston

 Danita Delimont/Getty Images

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

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

Take a Walking Tour of the Historic District

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

Discover Lowcountry Cuisine

TripSavvy / Anna Haines 

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

Attend Spoleto Festival USA

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

Discover Charleston's Museum Mile

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

Walk Along the Historic Charleston Battery

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

Explore the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

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

Visit the South Carolina Aquarium

Courtesy of South Carolina Aquarium

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

Buy Local Produce and Crafts at the Charleston Farmers Market

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

Tour Historic Homes

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

Stroll and Shop Historic King Street

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

Sample Local Beer and Spirits

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

Take a Boat Tour

ehrlif /Getty Images 

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

Visit Nearby Edisto Island

 Cavan Images/Getty Images

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

Get Up Close with History at Fort Sumter

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

Go on an ArtWalk

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

Take a Picture with the Angel Oak Tree

Daniela Duncan /Getty Images 

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

Tour Historic Graveyards and Cemeteries

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

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The 28 Best Things To Do In Charleston, South Carolina

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.

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36 Hours in Charleston, S.C.

By Ariel Felton Updated Sep. 14, 2023

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When most people think of Charleston, South Carolina’s oldest city, they often picture its walkable downtown, with its cobblestones, Colonial architecture and horse-drawn carriages. But beyond the historic district, you’ll find small islands with coastal views and waterways, and neighborhoods with their own wealth of history. While the city’s pivotal role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade continues to spark debate about how much to focus on that narrative for visitors, an answer has arrived in the International African American Museum , a $120 million project that opened in June after 20 years in the making. Charleston has been accused of being obsessed with history; in reality, it’s an evolving city amid a tourism boom that is striving to use the past to inform its future.

Recommendations

• Hannibal’s Kitchen has been serving authentic soul food for nearly 40 years.
• International African American Museum is an expansive new museum chronicling Black history through a Carolinian lens.
• The Obstinate Daughter is a sunny second-floor brunch spot on Sullivan’s Island.
• Gibbes Museum of Art offers three stories of art centered around Charleston.
• Fleet Landing Restaurant and Bar serves seafood dishes in a 1940s former naval building with a harbor view.
• Sorelle is a new Italian-inspired restaurant, bar and market.
• Henry’s On the Market offers live music and elevated bar food in a casual environment.
• George C. Birlant & Company is a large store where you can browse 18th- and 19th-century antiques.
• Buxton Books is a friendly bookstore and the starting place for the Lost Stories of Black Charleston walking tour.
• Sullivan’s Island is a cozy beach town a short drive from downtown. It has the small Edgar Allan Poe Library , housed in a former Spanish-American War battery and named for the poet who spent time on the island.
• Philip Simmons House is a museum in the former home of the celebrated ironworker from South Carolina.
• McLeod Plantation Historic Site offers insight into Gullah Geechee culture, stories about slavery and Charleston history.
• Charleston Gaillard Center is a grand theater presenting classical music and Broadway shows.
• 20 South Battery is a small hotel near Oyster Point with views of White Point Garden, Fort Sumter and the Charleston Harbor. Rooms start from $550 a night.
• The Ryder Hotel is a boutique experience in downtown Charleston within walking distance of a wide range of retail, dining and nightlife options. Enjoy its midcentury modern décor and poolside bar, with rooms from about $350 a night.
• Lavender & Lace is a bed-and-breakfast in a 1870s Victorian home, offering two suites as well as a two-story carriage house, all with private entrances. Rooms start around $119.
• If you’d rather opt for a beach house, try searching for short-term rentals on Sullivan’s Island.
• Downtown Charleston is pedestrian-friendly . On busy weekends, when street parking is limited, there are plenty of public garages where you can ditch your car for $1 per half-hour. Ubers and Lyfts are readily available for traveling to barrier islands and neighborhoods on the outskirts of Charleston.

Have a weekend to explore a destination? We’ve got the perfect travel itinerary.

Colorado Springs: ​​Colorado’s second-largest city, which brims with outdoor activities , is enticing visitors with a new museum and revamped hotels.

Minneapolis: Springtime is best for exploring this Midwestern city’s lakeside trails, robust arts scene and top-notch restaurants .

Maui: The beauty and hospitality of this Hawaiian island, still recovering from last year’s wildfires, remain as vibrant as ever .

Toronto: Savor the diversity of this lakefront city through its hidden bars, small-but-fascinating museums and vibrant restaurants .

Cape Town: Take a food and storytelling tour, cruise one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives and see contemporary African art in this city with stunning views in every direction .

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3 Days in Charleston: The Perfect Long Weekend Itinerary

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Planning a trip to fabulous Charleston, South Carolina, a peninsula where the church spires are the tallest structures? Charleston’s manageable size allows you to see a lot in a short time, making it the perfect choice for a quick getaway. In fact, 3 days in Charleston is just enough to experience the best of this Southern city.

Charleston is one of the first places I ever traveled to with my husband, and I’ve been smitten ever since. Dubbed “The Holy City” due to its many and varied places of worship, there is beauty and history down every palmetto-filled lane. Originally founded as Charles Town in 1670, there seems to be a story behind every structure.

That said, Charleston is also quite cosmopolitan, with top notch restaurants and a vibrant arts scene. Filled with romance and style, it’s also a popular honeymoon and bachelorette party destination.

Charleston’s charm continues to lure me back, and I can’t seem to stay away for too long. To help you see why this city is so alluring, I’ve curated the perfect 3-day Charleston itinerary below. Are you ready to eat some amazing food while exploring one of America’s oldest cities?

Super Romantic Things to do in Beautiful Charleston Budget Breakdown: Comprehensive Guide to Saving Money in Charleston Celebrating Fall in Charleston, SC Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA Ultimate One Week Road Trip

The Perfect 3 Days in Charleston Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Holy City

I created the below sightseeing walk ( link to map ), which shows you the best of Charleston’s famous sights in one morning. The walk is two miles long and takes about forty minutes to complete without stops. However, I recommend taking extra time to visit sites of interest along the way or simply lingering a little longer at the prettiest spots.

Warning – your camera storage will be full of photos by the time you’re done.

Start at the corner of Market Street and Church Street, right by the Historic Charleston City Market. If you want, pop into the market to grab a bite at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit and peruse stalls selling local goods before you set out.

Follow Church Street to Cumberland Street. You will see the iconic stone spire of St. Philip’s Church ahead of you. Fun fact – there are rules limiting new building height to ensure the church spires remain the tallest structures in the skyline.

Philadelphia Alley

Turn left onto Cumberland Street and you will quickly run into one of my favorite little paths: Philadelphia Alley. It is one of Charleston’s most beautiful alleyways, lined with greenery and prettily exposed brick walls where the painted plaster has worn away. Follow this lane to Queen Street.

Once on Queen Street, if you look to your right, you’ll see the unique petite façade of the French Huguenot Church. With its pink colored stucco and black iron details, it is a National Historic Landmark for being the last remaining independent Huguenot Church in America.

Now, turn left and walk all the way down Queen Street to the Joe Riley Waterfront Park.

Joe Riley Waterfront Park

When you arrive at the park, follow the path through the green space on your right to the Pineapple Fountain. This is one of the most famous photo spots in Charleston, and a lovely place to take a rest on the surrounding benches. 

I absolutely loved staying at The Vendue during our first trip because this stylish artsy hotel is just steps away from this park, and ideal for morning walks with coffee along the river. This boutique “art hotel” has its own rotating gallery where complementary wine is served each evening, and my favorite – free cookies at night!

Rainbow Row

Continue following the path to the end of the park until it drops you off onto N Adgers Wharf. Follow this to E Bay Street, and turn left.  In just a few steps the famous colorful houses of the Rainbow Row will come into view on your right. This right here is the most iconic photo spot in Charleston .

The Battery

Continue along E Bay Street and follow it all the way along the Cooper River. The street turns into E Battery Street, becoming very scenic with one beautiful historic mansion after another on your right and the tidal river on your left. 

The street ends at The Battery, a greenspace that was once a Civil War defensive post. Pause here for a moment before continuing back the way you came via Church Street.

Church Street

Head back via Church Street, a pleasant route that passes many quintessentially charming Charleston historical homes. Look for plaques that denote the Charlestonians and notable guests who’ve passed through, as well as significant events that took place in the houses. 

A couple interesting landmarks to note:

• More adorable paths, including Stolls Alley and Longitude Lane
• Heyward-Washington House , which once hosted President George Washington
• Carolina Antique Maps and Prints for my fellow map devotees

The “Four Corners of Law”

When you reach Broad Street, take a left towards Meeting Street. You’ll find yourself at The Four Corners of Law : the City Hall, State House, Federal Post Office and Judiciary System, and St. Michael’s Episcopal Church . Robert Ripley of Ripley’s Believe It or Not!  cleverly assigned this name after his visit, referring to City Law, State Law, Federal Law, and God’s Law.

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church , with its tall white steeple, dates back to 1761 and is one of the most striking churches in Charleston. Both President George Washington and General Robert E. Lee have worshipped here in pew Number 43.

Travel Savvy Tip

If you’d prefer to have a guide, join one of Charleston’s many walking tours. There are plenty of themes to choose from, whether you want history, ghosts, or cocktails. We loved Two Sisters Tours for a general Charleston overview. 

We also enjoyed this pub tour that made four different stops while telling stories of Charleston’s past, including which pubs are haunted. It introduced us to the city, while giving us some ideas for bars and restaurants to revisit later. 

Pop into the Blind Tiger Pub on Broad Street. This gastropub serves local craft beer and tasty eats like their duck sandwich with truffle fries. I should add, during a mother-daughter trip, the shrimp and grits was my mom’s favorite meal she ate in all of Charleston.

Old Slave Mart Museum

Make a left back onto Church Street, then a right onto cobblestone Chalmers Street for two more stops. 

First, you will run into the Pink House Gallery, with its striking façade of tropical pink stucco and a charmingly wonky tile roof. It is allegedly the oldest masonry residence in Charleston, having been built between 1690 and 1712.

Walk a touch further down the street to the Old Slave Mart Museum (originally Ryan’s Mart) on your left. The building came into use for this purpose during the 1850’s when outdoor slave auctions increasingly drew outcry from visitors to the city, and were subsequently banned. At one time, this entire block was largely a slave mart district with several of these establishments in business.

There aren’t many artifacts inside, but for $8 the Old Slave Mart Museum thoroughly describes the interstate slave trade in America. This is opposed to the transatlantic slave trade , which was nationally outlawed in 1807. After that, focus shifted to interstate trade, since by that time there were sadly enough enslaved people in the South for the industry to sustain itself.

Rest up before dinner, or take advantage of your hotel’s complementary wine happy hour (many Charleston hotels offer this). I adored sipping merlot by the fountains in the gorgeous courtyard of this hotel , which basically had unlimited free wine.

If you have a car, I highly recommend heading to Sullivan’s Island to dine at The Obstinate Daughter . I’m still dreaming about the Shrimp Roll and Old Danger Flatbread from this chic coastal restaurant.

If you don’t have a car, check out The Rooftop at the Vendue for some lighter fare. It is open for lunch and dinner every night and provides romantic views of Charleston’s spires and steeples.

Related: Savannah vs Charleston – Which Coastal Southern City is Better?

Day 2: Fort Sumter

Don’t worry – no more lengthy walking itineraries today! Rather, we are heading to the riverfront. 

Visit a Café

Start your day with coffee from an adorable Charleston café. Clerks Coffee Company , located in the Hotel Emeline , is modern, bright, and has a small breakfast menu with items like a breakfast sandwich or avocado toast. 

Liberty Square

With coffee in hand, take a leisurely mile walk or Uber down to Liberty Square. This is where the ferry to Fort Sumter takes off, as well as where you can see some of the best views of Charleston’s Arthur J. Ravenel Bridge.

Get in line to tour Fort Sumter on either the 9:00am, 12:00pm, or 2:30pm ferry. You can grab your tickets here .

Fort Sumter

A two-hour-and-fifteen-minute tour of Fort Sumter is easy to squeeze into 3 days in Charleston and is a must if you’re into history. After all, Fort Sumter is the site where the Civil War began when it was fired upon by Confederate troops.

The pleasant half-hour ferry ride allows you to sit on the top deck or below deck inside. In good weather, I highly recommend sitting outside for fresh air and gorgeous views of the Charleston waterfront.

Once at Fort Sumter, you have one hour to explore. The tour starts with a brief presentation from a National Park Ranger, but after that you can roam about. 

There are numerous informational signs, canons, and other artifacts that tell the story of the Union’s struggle to retake Fort Sumter from the Confederacy throughout the war. For four years, the fort took a beating until it was abandoned in 1865 when Union General William T. Sherman captured Charleston. The fort was restored after the war, but you can still find a couple old shells stuck in the walls.

Walk or Uber a mile down E Bay Street to grab lunch on the water at Fleet Landing . This nautical restaurant was built in a retired naval building and delivers tasty Southern seafood dishes with views of the Cooper River. 

During the mother-daughter trip, I devoured their Fried Green Tomato “BLT” and we split a bowl of rich, velvety She Crab Soup. It was the perfect warming dish to eat on the patio with the cool breeze coming off the water.

House Museum

It would be remiss not to check out at least one of Charleston’s many house museums. I recommend the Aiken-Rhett House Museum for $15, which can also be bought as a combo ticket with the Nathaniel Russell House for $24. 

The Aiken-Rhett House belonged to the Aiken family for 142 years before being sold to the Charleston Museum. All but one room has been preserved as it was found, furnishings and all, rather than restored. This makes the house seem stuck in time, and it’s easier to visualize each room as the Aiken once saw it.

Your ticket includes a self-guided audio tour of the house, beginning with a walk through the slave quarters that remain almost completely unchanged since the 1850’s. I personally found that this tour did a better job giving insight into the daily lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked there than any other house tour in Charleston. In fact, it’s a glaring example of how this ugly practice once extended beyond the plantations into the city.

Dine Out in Style

You must experience Charleston’s sophisticated dining scene during at least one of your 3 days in Charleston. Two of the nicest places in town are FIG and Husk, and they are quite different vibes.

Husk feels more traditional, located in what was once an elegant old Charleston home in a quiet section of Queen Street. They feature upscale Southern fare, with specials like homemade cheese-its topped with pimento spread. Sadly, our experienced was dampened by a somewhat dry and chewy pork entrée.

FIG has a more modern feel than Husk in a livelier part of town, but in a smaller, more intimate setting. They still use traditional, locally sourced ingredients, but in bright modern ways. The lamb tartar was crazy good, the gnocchi is a must-order, and there was even a dish that came with “freshly-dug” potatoes. 

One more option my husband and I always fondly remember is our dinner at Circa 1886 . This fine dining establishment is built inside the original carriage house of the historic Wentworth Mansion . 

Whichever you choose, make reservations far in advance. Especially for FIG – the best times virtually disappear the moment they are released four weeks out.

Day 3: Visit a Plantation

Brunch at magnolia’s.

Have a delicious brunch at Magnolia’s before heading out for the last of your 3 days in Charleston. This classy establishment takes traditional Southern staples up a notch. Some examples are country fried steak and banana pudding stuffed French toast.  In other words, just plain good southern comfort food.

Visit a historic plantation

There is no better way to truly understand Charleston’s deep and complicated history than by visiting a plantation. There are several plantations all around Charleston, and you can find a cluster of them along Ashley River Road. 

I recommend heading that direction for a hauntingly beautiful drive under canopies of live oaks and wispy Spanish Moss. Two excellent choices along this route are Middleton Place and Drayton Hall.

Middleton Place

Middleton Place’s sprawling manicured grounds surround the property’s remaining brick structure (it’s counterparts were destroyed during the Civil War). As most of the family’s belongings were hidden from Union Troops, you will see many such items during your tour. In fact, everything in the house either belonged to or is on loan from the Middleton family.

A visit does not come cheap, at $32 ($28 online) for just the grounds and an additional $15 to tour the house. That said, you’ll get to interact with passionate volunteers who love answering questions. When I visited with my mom, we were pulled aside to join a presentation on slavery that was so captivating, it hardly felt like thirty minutes had passed.

Drayton Hall

For an experience you cannot replicate elsewhere, visit Drayton Hall , or the nation’s “oldest preserved plantation house still open to the public”. 

While rather sparse on the inside, Drayton Hall is another rare building that has been preserved (rather than restored) in its current state since the mid-1800’s. With few modern reminders around you, you might actually believe you’re standing in another era (until someone’s phone buzzes).

Old Exchange

If you still have energy for one more museum at the end of your 3 days in Charleston, visit The Old Exchange . This historic building was originally built in 1771 and has served various purposes. 

Over time, The Old Exchange has changed hands between British, U.S., Confederate, and local ownership. It is incredible to think how much it has witnessed in Charleston over 2 ½ centuries – hurricanes, fires, earthquakes, and multiple wars. That’s quite a lot!

Have the final meal of your trip at R. Kitchen . This creative joint does two seatings: 6pm or 8pm. The menu changes daily and has five preset courses at $70 a person.

You’ll share this intimate space with the kitchen while sipping wine, tasting the day’s dishes, and celebrating an awesome trip. As this experience is popular, be sure to make reservations in advance.

Plan Your 3 Days in Charleston

Ensure your Charleston trip planning goes smoothly with these tips:

Getting to Charleston

• Drive: It’s handy to have a car with you to do day trips from Charleston, such as to a plantation or beach. However, it’s not needed if you plan to stay downtown during your 3 days in Charleston, as the city is totally walkable. Not having a car will also save you the nightly parking rate that virtually all downtown hotels charge.
• Fly: If you choose to fly to Charleston, you will be landing at Charleston International Airport . From there, it’s only about a 20 minute Uber ride or drive downtown. As far as rental cars, these are easy to pick up at the airport and driving around Charleston is a fairly stress-free experience.

Where to Stay During 3 Days in Charleston

Stay in Charleston’s Historic District for the most centrally located hotel options. This compact area of downtown Charleston contains many of the city’s most popular sights and incredible eateries all within walking distance. Here are two Charleston stays I adored:

• The Vendue: Charleston’s fabulous art hotel was newly renovated during 2023. My husband and I stayed here on our first visit and absolutely loved that it was just steps away from the waterfront park. Also, with unique perks like their own rotating gallery and rooftop bar, our already stylish trip felt even more so. Plus, you can’t beat free nightly wine and cookies.
• Indigo Inn: This hotel couldn’t be any more well-located and is about a minute from popular spots like FIG and the City Market. Though the rooms aren’t super modern, they are clean, comfortable, and moderately-priced. My favorite perk was the Indigo’s gorgeous courtyard, where we enjoyed complimentary breakfast and wine each day.

When to Visit

• Spring : In March through May, find pleasant temperatures ranging from 60-80 degrees. This is the perfect weather for walking all over Charleston as the flowers bloom around you. Tip: Come in late Spring to avoid crowds and inflated prices.
• Summer: In June through August, Charleston is sweltering with temperatures in the high 80’s. Find yourself a shaded porch with some cold iced tea. And don’t forget sunscreen!
• Fall: Peak season stretches from September through November. Similar to spring, temperatures are comfortable and prices are higher. Halloween time is also perfect for doing a ghost tour, as most old buildings in Charleston are rumored to be haunted. Tip: Crowds start to thin towards the end of November.
• Winter: In December through February, expect cooler, but not cold weather, as temperatures mostly stay between 50-60 degrees. This season also brings better prices and thin crowds (except around Valentines Day).

Now you are all set to take a deep dive into the Lowcountry over 3 days in Charleston. This itinerary will have you walking and eating your way though all that the Holy City has to offer. If you are anything like me, Charleston will charm you right back into returning to discover even more new places time and time again.

Are you traveling to Charleston soon? What are you excited to see in the Lowcountry?

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Just loved your walking tour of downtown Charleston! Thanks for all the details!!

Aww yay! Thanks Kim, I really appreciate this feedback. I mapped this route out for a trip with my mom, and we simply loved it!

If I go to Charleston (looking into it now), I will follow your itinerary! Everything sounds wonderful. Love the restaurant recommendations too! 😉

Quick question: if we have extra time, is there a beach/coastal area (outside of town) that you’d recommend?

Thanks Karen! I had so much fun putting this together 🙂

There are two coastal areas nearby that I’d recommend: – Isle of Palms, which has a very stunning, lengthy beach. – Sullivan’s Island, which is a little beach town with some awesome eateries like The Longboard and Obstinate Daughter. There is also the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse to check out.

Enjoy your trip!

Your information is very impressive and interesting!! I have never been to Charleston, and I’m really curious in what part of the city to stay. You mentioned the historic district – is that better than hotels by the river? And how about traditional B&Bs? I will have a car and will be there mid April. I appreciate any advice you can give me – as you sound like a veteran! 😃

Thank you! Yes, I’ve been several times, and it’s one of my favorite cities :). I’ve never visited in April before, but hear that time is lovely with plenty of flowers blooming!

The historic district is actually a very large area that begins on Calhoun Street and extends to the southern tip of the peninsula. That is where you’ll find the bulk of the historic homes and strollable lanes. There are plenty of nice hotels and B&B’s in this area. The ones I’ve mentioned above are lovely and in great locations. I’ve also stayed in the 1837 Bed and Breakfast, which was super quaint and adorable, but a bit of a walk to popular sights. The John Rutledge House Inn is one of the top rated historic inns in Charleston, and offers lots of charm in a great location. Hope that helps!

We are going to be in Charleston November 21-23 this year. We are traveling with our 10 year old son. Do you have any suggestions for dinner that is not too elegant or expensive that a family would enjoy? He has a rather diverse palate (aka doesn’t do a kids menu anymore). Also, it will be my birthday!

What a great birthday trip! One of my favorite casual restaurants for seafood is Fleet Landing, which has a cool location right on the river. Also, the Blind Tiger Pub is very casual, but it’s affordable, in a great location, and their food is really good. My favorite restaurant in Charleston is located on Sullivan’s Island: The Obstinate Daughter. It has a chic, beachy feel, and their pizzas are so good!

Thank you for this very helpful ininerary . What is your though on the tour pass? is it worth getting? or better to just pay admission/ tour cost tothings we visit

You’re welcome! It could be worth it to get the tour pass, if you are willing to build your itinerary around things included on the pass. However, for this particular itinerary it would probably not be worth it. This is because much of the sites on Day 1 are free to check out, for Day 2 Fort Sumter is not included on the pass, and neither of my two recommended plantations are included on the pass.

I would probably not purchase it for myself because I don’t like to jam 4-5 tours and sites into each day, and prefer more like 2-3. Plus, I wouldn’t want to be limited to only the sites on the pass in order to get its full value. But everyone is different, and if you don’t mind sticking to the tours and sites that are included, it’s definitely something to consider.

Hi Theresa,

I hope you are well. I chanced upon your website as I am looking to make a trip to Charleston and Savannah at the end of March this year, and came across this article. Just like you, I am a former accountant and I enjoy traveling! Your itinerary for a 3 day trip to Charleston looks thorough and is extremely well put together. My husband and I are slow travelers; vacations for us equate to exploring a town or city by foot and really getting lost in the culture. We enjoy long ramblings and lots of pit-stops to sample the local cuisine and always – wine! I don’t create checklists of things we must visit, and am certainly not one of those people who has to visit a site to capture the perfect Instagram worthy picture. However, I certainly understand that there are some sites that are a definite ‘must-see’.

My question – would you recommend this 3-day itinerary for slow travelers or would you suggest adding an extra day? Also, can Charleston be explored entirely on foot or would you recommend a rental car? Appreciate any response.

Thank you for taking the time to curate this thoughtful and enjoyable travel blog. I will be exploring further.

Hi Joy, thank you so much for this kind comment! I’ve been to Charleston several times now, and never tire of wandering it’s gorgeous streets. I’ve intentionally not jam-packed this itinerary to allow plenty of room to either slow down or add more sights, so I think it’ll be perfect for you!

It can be helpful to have a rental car for driving to nearby plantations or beaches (but perhaps no beach in March). You also might consider adding a fourth day for sights such as the Angel Oak, visiting more wine bars, or doing a themed walking tour (pub, ghost, historical). Hope that helps!

I will be going to Charleston May 22-25 and was thinking of going to Folly Beach but will not have a car. What are your thoughts on that? Also, do you know anything about the luxury dinner cruise? Also, will prices be really exaggerated at this time?

Hello! In May the weather should be beautiful for visiting Folly Beach! Without a car, the best way to reach the beach is via taxi or Uber/Lyft, as there really aren’t any great bus options currently. As far as the dinner cruise, I have not personally done it, but again, May is a gorgeous time of year to be on the water!

May is high season in Charleston, so hotel and flight prices could be a bit higher. However, tours and restaurant prices should be pretty consistent year-round.

Hi! So my wife and I going to Charleston for our 10-year wedding anniversary. We arrive on a Thursday afternoon and leave on a Sunday morning. The Thursday evening we arrive, I booked us a dinner at The Charleston Place, so we have two full days in CHS. How would you cut this down to only having two full days?

Hello! It would depend on your priorities, but definitely do Day 1. Then you would need to choose between seeing Fort Sumter or driving out to a plantation. Personally, I think it’s easiest to just stay in downtown Charleston for both days, since there is plenty to do. If you see Fort Sumter, you won’t need to worry about having a car since you can walk to the riverfront to catch the ferry.

I cannot for the life of me seem to find the website for Middleton Place. Would you mind sending? Your itinerary looks wonderful, and I have booked a few things based on your recommendation. I just need this one last piece of information. Thank you so much. MJ

So sorry about that! Here is the link for purchasing tickets: https://www.middletonplace.org/visit/tours-and-packages/tickets-middleton-place.php

I’ve also added it above!

Thank you for such detailed information. We are planning a trip to Charleston and Savannah. You have recommended 3 days in Charleston, have you visited Savannah as well and if so how many days would you suggest that we plan to see Savannah. Thank you Penny

Hi Penny! Yes, I have visited Savannah. I would recommend a similar timeframe of 2-3 days. The city of Savannah itself is worth at least 2, but there are also some sites outside the city like Bonaventure Cemetery that warrant staying an extra day.

Do you have any rec on taking a carriage tour of city .. which outfit? Or renting bikes to pedal around the city.. any rec on who to rent from? Love your 3 day itenetary…. Isiting in august for 4 days!

Thank you! You can’t go wrong with Palmetto Carriage Works , or the oldest carriage tour company in Charleston. Tours run every 30 minutes from 9am to 5:00pm.

For bikes, I would check out Bilda Bike in downtown Charleston. Sometimes hotels have bikes available for use as well.

My husband and I just did a 3 day trip to Charleston and I essentially followed your itinerary exclusively. IT WAS AMAZING! Every recommendation you made was fantastic. We loved our trip – thanks for your help!

This is so wonderful to hear! I’m so glad you enjoyed your trip 🙂

Thank you so much for the walking tour map. We visited Charleston in May for our 25th wedding anniversary. This was the first thing we did after we arrived. It was a wonderful walk. Your map made it easy to follow and ensured we were able to see all the highlights. We used the information on your website to read up on each place we visited. I just shared your map with my daughter. She is currently planning a Charleston trip.

Thank you for your comment Christie! So happy to hear the map was helpful and that you had a wonderful trip!

Hi! This is so great! Thank you for this!! My husband and I are visiting Charleston in April and will only have 3 days there. I love your walking tour and wanted to plan on Day 1. I am also missing the beach so much and would like 1-2 days of the pretty beach towns after one day of exploring Charleston– with our limited time, which beach would you recommend? We’d like to stay nights 2 and 3 on the beach (any hotel recommendations?). Thanks for any additional info.

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Charleston travel blog — the fullest charleston sc travel guide for a great trip to charleston city for first-timers.

The beautiful port city of Charleston is South Carolina state’s second largest city and has been rated as America’s No. 1 city for five consecutive years by Southern Living magazine and once you visit here, you will understand at why is that. According to 2018 census data, this city has a population of about 140.000 people. This picturesque city is not only beautiful, gentle, peaceful but also full of fun and lots of things to do from shopping, music, dining to history, culture, … So, what to do and how to visit Charleston? Let’s check out our Charleston travel blog (Charleston SC blog, Charleston SC travel blog, Charleston blog) with the fullest Charleston travel guide (Charleston SC guide, Charleston SC travel guide) to clear the answer!

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You can immerse yourself in the history and majestic beauty of the port city of Charleston. It attracts visitors from all over the world with spectacular views of the unique architectural church, charming cobblestone streets at Charleston Historic District. Moreover, if you love nature, the forests will give you a great sense of relaxation.

Only when you set foot in Charleston and feel with all your heart about a green, clean, beautiful, charming and peaceful city, you can unsderstand the reason why this city is so loved. From the skillfully manicured gardens at Middleton Place to the unbelievably beautiful views of Battery Quarter or French Quarter, or of Waterfront Park or a spooky excursion at night that leaves a lasting impression in memories of the people who came here.

Charleston travel guide (Charleston sc guide): Overview of charleston

Americans have passed on a joke: “10 years old wants to live in Palm Springs, 20 years old moves to Las Vegas, 30 years old must go to Chicago, 40 years old resides in New York, 50 years old thinks about Seattle, and over 60 years old ? – Charleston is the perfect choice.”

Charleston is one of the major cities in the United States with an outstanding economy. Moreover, Charleston is loved by the extremely developed tourism industry. With a long history and rich culture, it has become a solid foundation to help the city rise to the top of America. Every year, many tourists from all over the world come here to visit and relax.

Referring to developed cities, we often think of high-rise building or busy traffic system. However, coming to Charleston, you will be able to see a rare sight in history. The beauty of Charleston is bold classic with colorful houses lined up close together. In addition, the city also looks peaceful with no traffic congestion or air pollution. Because of this specialness that has brought a romantic Charleston that makes everyone want to live here.

Peaceful but not boring. Charleston city has a lot of food shops, restaurants serving a variety of Asian and European dishes, cafes, breweries, fresh fruit and vegetable markets … all of which are satisfied for needs of the people and tourists coming here.

Charleston SC guide: When to visit?

Charleston is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with mild, windy winters and oppressive, hot summers. Winter is not too cold with snow but very little, the average temperature of the year typically varies from 43°F to 89°F (6 – 33 degrees Celsius). Summer is quite cool compared to other states, average temperature is only about 30 degrees Celsius. However, summer is a time of frequent thunderstorms, so there will be many inconveniences. Spring and autumn are considered the best time to visit Charleston.

July is the hottest month of the year with an average temperature of about 32 – 33 degrees Celsius. January is the coldest month with an average temperature of 6 degrees Celsius. Each season in Charleston has its own characteristic featuring via natural scenery and cultural and culinary activities. So, you can visit Charleston all year round.

Charleston is not as dull as many people think. In winter, you can try delicious grilled scallops are served with fine wine. In spring, jasmine and magnolia blossom are in full bloom, when families often have a party in the garden, watching the flowers, enjoying wine and singing happily. The summer has the international art program Spoleto, while the autumn marks with the music festival.

Flower Festival

The Charleston Flower Festival in March every year is one of the most exciting spring events in America. This is the time when hundreds of flowers bloom, creating impressive scenes. Participating in the festival, visitors will admire the beauty of flowers such as azaleas, camellia, rose, jasmine, … Together with the chilly atmosphere and romantic scenery of spring, visitors will be experienced a wonderful land of America.

Charleston SC travel guide: How to get to Charleston?

From Vietnam, you can fly to Charleston with airlines such as Air China (Beijing and New York), Japan Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, ANA (Seoul – Atlanta), EVA Air and China Airlines (Taipei and New York) … Among them, United Airlines is the largest airline in the United States and is the most chosen by many people to book tickets, depending on each airline and the time that the fare will be different. The airfare to Charleston ranges from $516 to $602 depending on different ticket class.

Charleston blog: Transportation in Charleston

The main means of transportation in Charleston are bicycle, bus and taxi. To traveling to more distant locations you can choose the subway. Calling a car as well as getting around the city is very easy so you don’t need to worry. Besides, the traffic system is strict, well-planned, so there is no traffic jam. The tourist streets of the city are always clear and airy. However, if you use public transportation such as buses or subway, or water taxi but you have to walk to the attractions.

In addition, Uber, Lyft services are also very popular. This is a good way to traveling around the city and to get nearby places.

Charleston SC travel guide: Best places to visit and top things to do

Magnolia plantation and gardens.

The most special garden is The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Only about 20 miles from downtown Charleston, this place becomes a picnic spot for locals. The Magnolia was founded in 1676, opened to visitors in 1870 and is the oldest public garden in America.

You can admiring the gardens – bloom all year round at The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens – and see everything from camellias to azaleas. There is also an old plantation house, giving visitors a clearer picture of life in the 19th century. A tram ride tour will take you through wetlands, forests and marshes, where you can spot out crocodiles, gibbons, herons and turtles. This is the hottest garden in America.

Address: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States Hours: 8:30AM–4:30PM

Fort Sumter National Monument

Fort Sumter National Monument is a civil war fort that has been preserved until now and has become a hot tourist destination. The fortress with its majestic beauty, strong standing in the middle of the sea, creates an impressive scene. Coming here, visitors will hear American historical stories and admire the ancient beauty. At the fortress, there is an American flag and statues of heroes who have sacrificed for the country. To get here you have to buy a boat ticket to reach the fort. Seeing the great wonder lying on the sea will definitely be a great experience in your trip.

Address: South Carolina 29412, United States Opened: 1829 Hours: Open 24 hours

Joe Riley Waterfront Park

One of Charleston’s tourist hot spots is Waterfront Park. The 5-hectare park is located next to the Cooper River, bearing a romantic beauty. Waterfront Park is divided into many different areas, convenient for sightseeing. In the center of the park built a fountain overlooking the river, adding to the romance.

Address: Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 6AM–9PM

South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is also a favorite spot in Charleston. It’s home to more than 10.000 different species that are cared for and preserved. Coming to the aquarium, you will be overwhelmed by the immense space with many species of sea creatures swimming behind the glass. If you travel with your kids, this is a must-visit place.

The South Carolina Aquarium regularly hosts exhibitions, so you can come and see. Not only that, this place also built a large-scale sea turtle care center. After being raised, turtles will be released to a local beach and they will be returned to the ocean.

Address: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Opened: May 19, 2000 Hours: 9AM–5PM

Walking tour

The best way to get a deeper understanding of a new destination is to take a walk around, and the city of Charleston has a tour for the hikers.

The Charleston Strolls – History Tours (Bulldog Tours) are the pieces of the puzzle that make up a fascinating city of Charleston. While walking in the sun, you will have the opportunity to take a closer look at the impressive architecture of this place. And more surprisingly, you will see beautiful alleys hidden behind rows of tall buildings, garden houses, churches and many ancient American places. If you don’t like walking, you can register for a bus tour or a horse cart tour…

Take a stroll through the Charleston City Market

On your first day in Charleston, you should wake up early and head to the city center to drop by Charleston City Market which was established in 1807 – a Charleston traditional market and one of the oldest public markets in the country.

It opens at 9:30 a.m. every day and spans three outdoor stalls, as well as a great hall. You will find all kinds of unique treasures here, from paintings and photographs, to textiles and clothing, to food and wine…

There are also plenty of breakfast options in and around the market, including Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit , located inside the Great Hall, where you can enjoy homemade cookies, and more.

Address: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 9:30AM–6PM/Friday; Saturday: 9:30AM–10:30PM

Bulldog Tour

After you’ve explored the City Market, it’s time to explore the city. And there’s no better way to do that than join a tour called the Bulldog Tour.

Named after the mascot of the city’s famous military university – The Citadel, Bulldog Tours has over 70 years of experience in providing tours for all tastes, whether you’re curious about the history of the city or any other things of the city.

Angel Oak Tree

The short drive to Angel Oak Tree, located on nearby John Island is definitely an experience not to be missed. This is one of the most popular attractions in Charleston. The unique and giant Angel Oak Tree is 1.500 years old oak tree and is believed to be one of the oldest living plants in the country.

Address: 3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455, United States Hours: 9AM–5PM/Sunday: 1–5PM

Explore Charleston on the water and enjoy a meal on the boat

Don’t like the roads? Rest assured, there are many ways to explore the city of Charleston on the water. Get on a boat to watch the sunset and dolphins or a romantic wine tasting cruise in the sunset. And if you like challenge and action, let kayaking off the shores of Shem Creek and you’ll see dolphins and sometimes whales.

Although the city is filled with great places to enjoy a meal, but many travelers enjoy the meal on the boat. SpiritLine Cruises offers a luxurious dining experience on a cruise, including a 2 and a half hour cruise, the meal includes three or four courses that prepared right on board using fresh local ingredients, a full bar, live music and wonderful sunset.

Relax at the beaches

The most interesting and impressive of all is paddling through creeks and swamps while breathing the sea-smelling air. There are great beaches in Charleston like the Isle of Palms, which are for family vacations. Located about 12 miles from the city center of Charleston, this island is nested between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal waterway, offering great views of the ocean as well as engaging experiences such as swimming, walking along the beach, kayaking, boating, … While Folly Beach is more laid-back for young single travelers.

As one of a destination of the city of Charleston that visitors cannot miss is Edisto Beach, an ideal place to hold a picnic and watch the sunset.

Charleston Tea Garden

The Charleston Tea plantation is located about 20 miles to the south of Charleston, South Carolina on the island of Wadmalaw. Owned by the Bigelow Tea Company, the company grows tea and sold under the brand names of American Classic Tea and the Charleston Tea Plantation from the Camellia Sinensis factory.

Address: 6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, United States Hours: 10AM–4PM/Sunday: 12–4PM

Aiken-Rhett House Museum

Aiken – Rhett House was built in 1820 and almost unchanged since 1858 and turned into a museum later. This is the place where visitors can admire and explore ancient architecture, which have been preserved for hundreds of years, one of Charleston’s most stately mansion.

Address: 48 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States Hours: 10AM–5PM

Charleston travel blog: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• French Quarter Inn , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $255/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Belmond Charleston Place , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $329/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Harbourview Inn , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $219/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Andrew Pinckney Inn , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $102/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Town & Country Inn and Suites , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $102/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Charleston SC guide: What and where to eat?

Seafood at Magnolias restaurant

Going to the sea but not eat seafood is a pity. Moreover, the culinary culture in the city of Charleston today is overheating and Magnolias restaurant played a huge role in the city’s culinary renaissance, which has been going on over the past decade. The restaurant Magnolias showed Charleston’s culinary style was influenced by South Carolina’s coast natives, Georgians and British, French, and African immigrants. Try fried chicken and sausage sauce, Charleston crab cake and green tomatoes sautéed with caramelized onion powder.

Address: 185 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 11:30AM–9PM

Street food at Marion Square

Well don’t forget, every Saturday morning, lots of farmers, and food vendors will head to the beautiful Marion Square in Charleston Farmers Market (Address: 329 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States). I love going there early when the stalls are just set up, with the aroma of coffee and culinary flavors spreading in the air.

All farm produce at the market must be grown in South Carolina; except banana! It’s great to wander, sip, and sample local’s favorite dishes like ice blended and jelly on toast. If you are traveling with your family, this market is also very interesting. And there are many stalls all over the place, and local craftsmen sell everything from jewelry to hats.

FIG restaurant

Charleston has also become a gourmet culinary paradise. FIG, one of the city’s most notable restaurants, was named one of America’s best restaurants in 2016 by Eater. The chef of this famous restaurant, Mike Lata, was also nominated the James Beard Award for Chef Excellence this year.

Address: 232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 5–10:30PM/Sunday: Closed

King Street

The north of the city also becomes a culinary venue. According to Travel + Leisure, the King Street is also famous for a variety of eateries, venues with fine cocktails and excellent hotels.

Hominy Grill

Going a little further to the north you will find a popular breakfast spot called Hominy Grill. Here you will find dishes with the traditional and signature flavors of Charleston such as tiger prawns, fried chicken and catfish.

Address: 207 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

Texax BBQ is the famous barbecue dish in Charleston. For a delicious barbecue, the chef has marinated the necessary spices and grilled at high heat. When you eat, you will feel the aroma and richness of the meat. Along with the barbecue is grilled ribs that are also extremely attractive. You will be served with vegetables and sauces to make the meal more perfect and full.

You can try Texas BBQ at Lewis Barbecue (Address: 464 N Nassau St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States/Hours: 11AM-9PM).

Apple pie is a familiar dish on the American dining table. Traveling here you should also enjoy this special cake for a new flavor. Round shape apple pie with eye-catching motifs will attract you at first sight. Plus, the cake has a mild aroma and a sweet taste that melting in your mouth.

Charleston SC travel guide: Shopping

If you come to Charleston and want to shopping, let go to King Street paradise, where there are many prominent fashion stores with all brands in the world. You can find everything you need without having to fly to New York to find.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Charleston you can refer to

• Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride
• Charleston: 90-Minute Historic City Highlights Tour
• Charleston Harbor: Luxury Dinner Cruise
• Charleston: Magnolia Plantation Tour and Transport
• Charleston: 1-Hour Carriage Tour of the Historic District
• Charleston: Historical Walking Tour
• Charleston: Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl
• Charleston: Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
• Charleston: Daytime or Sunset Historic Harbor Cruise
• Charleston Harbor: Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise

Above is the fullest Charleston SC travel guide. We hope this guide will help you planning and have a wonderful trip to the coastal city and one of most beloved destinations in the US. Happy traveling!

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. The Battery

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Zero George

Zero George

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Jack Nevitt / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. King Street

meunierd / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Charleston Farmers Market

Jeramey Lende / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. John Pope Antiques

John Pope Antiques

Antiquing isn’t just something your grandmother does.

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

This is an excellent antique shop full of cool items.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Waterfront Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Sullivan’s Island

Henryk Sadura / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TIm J. Nichols / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. South Carolina Aquarium

Daniel M. Silva / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Charleston Tea Plantation

Thomas Trompeter / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. French Quarter Inn

French Quarter Inn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Charleston Music Hall

Edith Howle / flickr

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

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

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

Charleston Music Hall has been through a lot.

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

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

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

Look at the venue’s schedule for this weekend.

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

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

14. Charleston Museum

Wally Gobetz / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Hampden Clothing

Hampden Clothing

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

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

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

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

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

You can find great clothes for all occasions here.

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

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

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

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

16. Charleston Culinary Tours

Charleston Culinary Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Middleton Place

Adam Skonn / Shutterstock

Many great plantations are available for visiting in Charleston.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. The Darling Oyster Bar

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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

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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 city guide to Charleston, South Carolina

Often lauded as the “best-mannered city in America”, Charleston doesn’t do bragging. But finally it has caught the eye of BA, which is launching the first direct transatlantic flights to this refined Southern belle in April. “Honestly, there’s nowhere else like it,” says Jill Paris, a proud Charlestonian who launched Eclectic Tours of Charleston last summer. “It’s one of the few places where you can genuinely catch a glimpse of days gone by.”

Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop past glamorously faded antebellum houses in the Historic District, which dates from 1670. On Rainbow Row, you’ll find a pastel-coloured line of pretty Georgian homes and Calhoun Mansion, a brilliantly eccentric Italianate estate (tours from £13; calhounmansion.net ).

Much of the city was built on slave labour — an estimated 40% of enslaved Africans brought to America landed here — and its former plantations and markets now serve as heart-rending open museums. The Old Slave Mart Museum, on Chalmers Street, fills you in on this disturbing chapter in the city’s history ( oldslavemartmuseum.com ).

Take a boat tour to Fort Sumter, on Charleston Harbor, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. But don’t think the city is entirely rooted in the past. More than 200 tech companies have moved to the area in recent years, design districts have popped up and there’s a thriving bar and foodie scene.

“The food revolution has been kind of spectacular — we’re turning into a culinary capital,” Paris says. “We used to mostly see Southern specialities with a seafood slant, but now there’s a really eclectic mix.” Chez Nous, a French bistro, is among her favourites. The daily-changing menu might include anything from roasted rabbit with mushrooms to snapper crudo (mains from £20; cheznouschs.com ).

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A number of new hotels have sprung up, with the Dewberry — a luxury reimagining of a former federal office building in midtown — among the coolest spots to bed down (doubles from £180; thedewberrycharleston.com ). As Paris says: “They’re doing amazing things in this small city.”

BA’s twice-weekly flights from Heathrow begin on April 4 (from £600; ba.com ). Eclectic Tours of Charleston has two-hour tours from £19 (walktourscharleston.com)

Discover the best destinations for 2019 with our complete guide at thesundaytimes.co.uk/holiday2019

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The Best Beaches Near Charleston, South Carolina

W hile many southern tourists know Myrtle Beach and its boardwalk-style road, offering them every conceivable way to spend their money, just two hours south is the town of Charleston. Here, droves of tourists arrive in sun dresses and surfer shorts, not just for the shopping and art but also for the incredible beaches.

Charleston , with its historic charm and a population of over 153,000 inhabitants, is a well-preserved town that welcomes approximately 7.5 million visitors annually, according to Travel and Leisure. The South Carolina coast is a huge draw for most of these tourists.

Charleston’s cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture enthrall visitors at every turn. This town also has a thriving art scene and plenty of delicious food that entices tourists to spend their hard-earned cash, and plenty of it. Food and shopping aren’t the only things that draw visitors to this southern town. These are our recommendations for the best beaches near Charleston. 

The Best Beaches Near Charleston and Their Attractions

This area of the country has a beach to suit any vacation need. South Carolina has beaches for anything from family outings to solo sunbathing. Here’s what to know about each of these popular beaches and what activities they offer.

What Is the Most Popular Charleston Beach?

Folly Beach is the most popular and well-trafficked beach in the area. It’s the closest beach to downtown Charleston (between 12 and 15 miles, depending on where you are driving from) and the most populated beach in the area, offering approximately 6 miles of sandy beach to set up your beach chair. Please arrive early to get parking and remember some cash to pay for it.

Folly Beach Activities and Attractions

• Surfing – Folly Beach is a renowned surfing destination for both beginners and seasoned surfers. Its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal spot for those looking to ride the surf with Shaka Surf School.
• Fishing – Folly Beach is a haven for anglers looking to catch everything from trout to sharks. The waters surrounding this picturesque beach offer a rich marine habitat, ensuring an exciting and productive fishing experience.
• Cruising – Folly Beach offers a tranquil and enjoyable cruising experience with Sea Breeze Charters, perfect for those looking to unwind on the water. 
• Watersports – This area is a hub for water sports enthusiasts, with FB Water Sports offering a wide range of activities such as kiteboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. The area caters to all skill levels and preferences.

The Best Beach for Some R&R – Kiawah Island Beach

This beautiful beach is the least crowded of all South Carolina beaches. So if peace and quiet are what you yearn for, this is the beach you want. However, be willing to make the commute to get there. It’s about 28 miles from town.

Kiawah Island Activities and Attractions

• Hiking – If more than ten miles of beach are needed, this one also offers thirty miles of paved trails for hiking and exploring for the hiking enthusiast. 
• Bird Watching – Find your way to the Marsh View Tower, perfect for this activity. Bird enthusiasts will find every bird, from bald eagles to wood storks.
• Nature Education – Try Heron Park Nature Center, where they teach about all the local wildlife in the area. You’ll learn about everything from bobcats to alligators. 

Every National Park in the US—and where to visit them.

Most charming beach.

Sullivan’s Island Beach is considered the most charming beach this area has to offer. You’ll have three miles of beach to play on. Remember to take advantage of seeing Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse. It’s a square-shaped lighthouse with free parking along the street before the bridge. It makes for a great, classic beach day with plenty of Instagrammable moments.

Sullivan’s Island Beach Activities and Attractions

• Collecting Shells – Bring a bucket for collecting shells because this beach has sand dollars galore. Just be sure only to keep the white ones, as the gray ones are still alive. Nothing beats the thrill of finding a whole, unbroken sand dollar.
• Water Sports – While most people tend to come to this beach to do less with their day, the area does offer water sports such as kayaking, surfing, and even crabbing.
• Shopping – Find small, locally owned, in-town shops selling clothes and souvenirs. If you happen to be visiting between the beginning of April and the end of June, stop by the local farmers market for some local produce, and delicious baked goodies on Thursdays in the late afternoon.

The Beach for Families

Isle of Palms Beach is excellent for spending a day with family. It offers plenty of parking, restaurants, and shops, and even has a fishing pier for those who love to fish. The beach is about 6 miles long, so there will be room to spread your blanket over the sand.

Isle of Palms Beach Activities and Attractions

• Water Sports – From jet skiing to parasailing or wakeboarding, water sports are a fun way to spend the day at Isle of Palms Beach. Check out Tidal Wave Water Sports for any water sports needs or supplies.
• Take A Wildlife Tour – Prefer searching for wildlife? There are private tours to take, thanks to Barrier Island Eco Tours. To promote wildlife conservation, you’ll learn about bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead sea turtles, and numerous birds You’ll watch your guide pull crab traps and throw cast nets all so you can get up close and personal with the creatures that call this area home.
• Play Golf – There are two golf courses to choose from; Wild Dunes Resort runs both. They are open to resort guests and visiting golfers alike, though plenty of local golfers frequent these golf courses.
• Dog Life – If the family dog needs to live his best life at the beach, this is the beach to bring him to. Just be aware that any dog must always be on a leash. Dogs are welcome here year-round.

Most Private Beach – Seabrook Island Beach

This beach runs along a private, gated, residential community and will give you the seclusion you seek. It has about 3 miles of beach and is approximately thirty minutes from downtown Charleston. Try kayaking and horseback riding if the mood strikes. It’s a great place to get away from it all.

Seabrook Island Beach Activities and Attractions

• Be A Pirate – If the kids are begging for something to do, turn them into pirates for an hour. Pirates Of Charleston offers cruises for the whole family on the Black Ghost. Kids can dress like pirates and even go on a treasure hunt.
• Play Golf – The course here at Crooked Oaks Golf Course offers some fantastic views while you sink that hole in one. They even offer instructors for beginners or for those simply looking to improve their game.
• Horseback Riding – This beach offers horseback riding for a day, riding through the North Beach Surf. Check out The Club’s Equestrian Center at Seabrook Island for more information.

For Pristine Surroundings and Wildlife – Edisto Beach

If getting back to nature is what you desire, Edisto Beach is the spot for you. This beach is about 45 miles from downtown Charleston, but it’s worth the effort. This area makes it easy to unplug, go fishing and boating, and enjoy the local culture.

Edisto Beach Activities and Attractions

• Fishing – Go fishing with one of the many fishing charters in the area. They offer off-shore and in-shore fishing charters for beginners and experienced fishermen alike.
• Shopping – Check out the small shops in the area for everything from clothing and crafts to gifts and home decor. This area might be smaller, but it will never leave you wanting for things to buy.
• Wildlife Refuge – Explore the local wildlife at Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve. They offer everything from horseback riding to deer and dove hunting.

For Beach Camping – Capers Island

If camping on a beach sounds like heaven, Capers Island is the place to be. A free permit is all that is needed before pitching a tent. There are 214 acres to explore, which include salt marshes, hiking trails, and caves along the oceanfront.

Capers Island Activities and Attractions

• Kayaking – This breathtaking area offers fantastic kayaking adventures, including overnight camping, day tours, and sunset tours. The sunset tours are spectacular.
• Dolphins and Sea Turtles – Take a two-and-a-half-hour cruise with Barrier Island Eco Tours to spot these sea creatures in their natural habitat.
• Crabbing – Take a crabbing excursion with Barrier Island Eco Tours. It’s three and a half hours, including time to see the island and enjoy some cooked seafood.

Visit Charleston

Exploring Charleston , South Carolina beaches allow tourists to enjoy the vacation of their dreams. The diversity of experiences makes this an area appropriate for people of all ages. With a wide array of activities available, there truly is something for everyone. 

A trip to Charleston is more than just a historical or cultural experience. It’s a rich experience of the senses. A coastal experience that everyone should partake of firsthand. From kayaking and jet skiing to cruising or just sunbathing, this area of the country is worth exploring.

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7 Best Beaches Near Charleston, South Carolina

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 25/05/2024

While many southern tourists know Myrtle Beach and its boardwalk-style road, offering them every conceivable way to spend their money, just two hours south is the town of Charleston, South Carolina. Here, droves of tourists arrive in sun dresses and surfer shorts, not just for the shopping and art but also for the incredible beaches.

Charleston, with its historic charm and a population of over 153,000 inhabitants, is a well-preserved town that welcomes approximately 7.5 million visitors annually, according to Travel and Leisure. 

Its cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture enthrall visitors at every turn. This town also has a thriving art scene and plenty of delicious food that entices tourists to spend their hard-earned cash, and plenty of it. But food and shopping aren’t the only things that draw visitors to this southern town. The South Carolina coast is a huge draw for most of these tourists, and for good reason.

Explore Charleston’s Best Beaches and Their Attractions

This area of the country has a beach to suit any vacation need. South Carolina has beaches for anything from family outings to solo sunbathing. Here’s what to know about each of these popular beaches and what activities they offer.

1. The Most Popular Charleston Beach

Folly Beach is the most popular and well-trafficked beach in the area. It’s the closest beach to downtown Charleston (between 12 and 15 miles, depending on where you are driving from) and the most populated beach in the area, offering approximately 6 miles of sandy beach to set up your beach chair. Please arrive early to get parking and remember some cash to pay for it.

Folly Beach Activities and Attractions

Surfing – Folly Beach is a renowned surfing destination for both beginners and seasoned surfers. Its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal spot for those looking to ride the surf with Shaka Surf School.

Fishing – Folly Beach is a haven for anglers looking to catch everything from trout to sharks. The waters surrounding this picturesque beach offer a rich marine habitat, ensuring an exciting and productive fishing experience.

Cruising – Folly Beach offers a tranquil and enjoyable cruising experience with Sea Breeze Charters, perfect for those looking to unwind on the water.

Watersports – This area is a hub for water sports enthusiasts, with FB Water Sports offering a wide range of activities such as kiteboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. The area caters to all skill levels and preferences.

2. The Best Beach for Some R&R – Kiawah Island Beach

This beautiful beach is the least crowded of all South Carolina beaches. So if some peace and quiet are what you yearn for, this is the beach you want. However, be willing to make the commute to get there. It’s about 28 miles from town.

Kiawah Island Activities and Attractions

Hiking – If more than ten miles of beach are needed, this one also offers thirty miles of paved trails for hiking and exploring for the hiking enthusiast. 

Bird Watching – Find your way to the Marsh View Tower, perfect for this activity. Bird enthusiasts will find every bird, from bald eagles to wood storks.

Nature Education – Try Heron Park Nature Center, where they teach about all the local wildlife in the area. You’ll learn about everything from bobcats to alligators. 

3. Most Charming Beach

Sullivan’s Island Beach is considered the most charming beach this area has to offer. You’ll have three miles of beach to play on, and remember to take advantage of seeing Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, a square-shaped lighthouse with free parking along the street before the bridge. It makes for a great, classic beach day with plenty of Instagrammable moments.

Sullivan’s Island Beach Activities and Attractions

Collecting Shells – Bring a bucket for collecting shells because this beach has sand dollars galore. Just be sure only to keep the white ones, as the gray ones are still alive. Nothing beats the thrill of finding a whole, unbroken sand dollar.

Water Sports – While most people tend to come to this beach to do less with their day, the area does offer water sports such as kayaking, surfing, and even crabbing.

Shopping – Find small, locally owned, in-town shops selling clothes and souvenirs. If you happen to be visiting between the beginning of April and the end of June, stop by the local farmers market for some local produce, and delicious baked goodies on Thursdays in the late afternoon.

4. The Beach for Families

Isle of Palms Beach is excellent for spending a day with family. It offers plenty of parking, restaurants, and shops, and even has a fishing pier for those who love to fish. The beach is about 6 miles long, so there will be room to spread your blanket over the sand.

Isle of Palms Beach Activities and Attractions

Water Sports – From jet skiing to parasailing or wakeboarding, water sports are a fun way to spend the day at Isle of Palms Beach. Check out Tidal Wave Water Sports for any water sports needs or supplies.

Take A Wildlife Tour – Prefer searching for wildlife? There are private tours to take, thanks to Barrier Island Eco Tours. With a goal of promoting wildlife conservation, you’ll learn about bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead sea turtles, and numerous birds You’ll watch your guide pull crab traps and throw cast nets all so you can get up close and personal with the creatures that call this area home.

Play Golf – There are two golf courses to choose from; Wild Dunes Resort runs both. They are open to resort guests and visiting golfers alike, though plenty of local golfers frequent these golf courses.

Dog Life – If the family dog needs to live his best life at the beach, this is the beach to bring him to. Just be aware that any dog must always be on a leash. Dogs are welcome here year-round.

5. Most Private Beach – Seabrook Island Beach

This beach runs along a private, gated, residential community and will give you the seclusion you seek. It has about 3 miles of beach and is approximately thirty minutes from downtown Charleston. Try kayaking and horseback riding if the mood strikes. It’s a great place to get away from it all.

Seabrook Island Beach Activities and Attractions

Be A Pirate – If the kids are begging for something to do, turn them into pirates for an hour. Pirates Of Charleston offers cruises for the whole family on the Black Ghost. Kids can dress like pirates and even go on a treasure hunt.

Play Golf – The course here at Crooked Oaks Golf Course offers some fantastic views while you sink that hole in one. They even offer instructors for beginners or for those simply looking to improve their game.

Horseback Riding – This beach offers horseback riding for a day, riding through the North Beach Surf. Check out The Club’s Equestrian Center at Seabrook Island for more information.

6. For Pristine Surroundings and Wildlife – Edisto Beach

If getting back to nature is what you desire, Edisto Beach is the spot for you. This beach is about 45 miles from downtown Charleston, but it’s worth the effort. This area makes it easy to unplug, go fishing and boating, and enjoy the local culture.

Edisto Beach Activities and Attractions

Fishing – Go fishing with one of the many fishing charters in the area. They offer off-shore and in-shore fishing charters for beginners and experienced fishermen alike.

Shopping – Check out the small shops in the area for everything from clothing and crafts to gifts and home decor. This area might be smaller, but it will never leave you wanting for things to buy.

Wildlife Refuge – Explore the local wildlife at Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve. They offer everything from horseback riding to deer and dove hunting.

7. For Beach Camping – Capers Island

If camping on a beach sounds like heaven, Capers Island is the place to be. A free permit is all that is needed before pitching a tent. There are 214 acres to explore, which include salt marshes, hiking trails, and caves along the oceanfront.

Capers Island Activities and Attractions

Kayaking – This breathtaking area offers fantastic kayaking adventures, including overnight camping, day tours, and sunset tours. The sunset tours are spectacular.

Dolphins and Sea Turtles – Take a two-and-a-half-hour cruise with Barrier Island Eco Tours to spot these sea creatures in their natural habitat.

Crabbing – Take a crabbing excursion with Barrier Island Eco Tours. It’s three and a half hours, including time to see the island and enjoy some cooked seafood.

Visit Charleston

Exploring Charleston , South Carolina beaches allow tourists to enjoy the vacation of their dreams. The diversity of experiences makes this an area appropriate for people of all ages. With a wide array of activities available, there truly is something for everyone. 

A trip to Charleston is more than just a historical or cultural experience. It’s a rich experience of the senses. A coastal experience that everyone should partake of firsthand. From kayaking and jet skiing to cruising or just sunbathing, this area of the country is worth exploring.

Author: Karen Kelly is the food and travel blogger over at Seasonal Cravings . She is a busy wife and mother to three teenagers who loves creating seasonal recipes in her kitchen outside of Washington, D.C. She travels with her family and loves to share her adventures on Seasonal Cravings, MSN and the Associated Press Wire.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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