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On the lookout for recommendations on what to do in Charleston, South Carolina? You then’ve come to the precise place.
Charleston is known for its historic websites, 18th century structure, unbelievable seashores and nature websites, and heat Southern appeal.
Whether or not you’re a historical past buff or a nature lover, you’ll discover there are various issues to do in Charleston SC.
On this information, we shared a few of our high suggestions and suggestions for vacationer sights in Charleston, in addition to strategies for locations to eat, drink, keep, and discover.
Is Charleston, South Carolina Value Visiting?
Charleston, South Carolina is well some of the charming cities within the nation, if not the world.
The historic buildings that hosted founding fathers now home award profitable eating places and shops. What’s outdated turns into new once more.
It’s additionally the best mixture of seashore, metropolis and nation, with all three inside fifteen minutes of one another, making it one of many best weekend getaways within the USA.
For these causes and extra, it’s completely price visiting. It’s included in our best USA road trips listing!
Issues to Do in Charleston, SC
Under are a few of our favourite sights in Charleston and locations to see. Be sure to add a couple of of those stops to your Charleston itinerary.
1. Discover Sullivan’s Island
There are dozens of barrier islands and seashores surrounding Charleston, however Sullivan’s Island simply occurs to be my favourite. It’s extra family-oriented and has the small city ambiance.
It has a novel mix of historical past and pure magnificence. One of many major causes to go to right here is for the pristine seashores that are good for swimming, sunbathing, and browsing on, in addition to alternatives for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing within the surrounding waters.
Nonetheless don’t miss a go to to Fort Moultrie, a nationwide historic landmark that performed a big function in American army historical past.
2. Take the Youngsters to Splash within the Joe Riley Waterfront Park Fountains
The Joe Wiley Waterfront Park is a big city park with locations to stroll, jog, play and lounge round.
In the event you’re visiting on a scorching summer season’s day, there are two fountains that may hold youngsters entertained and funky through the sweltering summer season months.
It’s location subsequent to Charleston harbor presents unbelievable views from the pier overlooking the water.
3. Try the Gorgeous Structure of Rainbow Row
Rainbow Row and the Battery are well-known for a purpose. Rainbow Row is the best photospot for a postcard, with homes painted in pastel colours.
This lovely and historic avenue dates again to the 18th century and is a primary instance of Georgian and Federal structure.
Stroll alongside the cobblestone streets and marvel on the vibrant colours of the houses, which have been completely preserved.
It’s also possible to step into a number of artwork galleries, cafes, and boutique retailers, making it a great spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a day of procuring.
4. Pay a Go to to the Battery
The close by Battery, or White Level Backyard, has a number of the metropolis’s costliest houses overlooking the place the Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet.
The Battery presents gorgeous views of the harbor and Fort Sumter.
The Battery isn’t solely recognized for its homes, but in addition the fortified seawall that was constructed within the late 18th century to guard town towards naval assaults.
Take a leisurely stroll alongside the promenade, which is lined with palmetto bushes and historic mansions, or calm down on one of many many park benches and take within the picturesque views.
Some close by monuments price trying out for his or her structure are the Accomplice Defenders of Charleston monument and the Fort Sumter monument.
5. Go to the Charleston Tea Plantations
Charleston is residence to a number of historic plantations, equivalent to Boone Corridor Plantation and Magnolia Plantation, characteristic gorgeous gardens, historic houses, and academic reveals that showcase the world’s wealthy historical past and tradition.
Charleston Tea Garden (Formerly Charleston Tea Plantation) is the nation’s solely functioning tea plantation on Wadmalaw Island and is a gorgeous day journey exercise. They host a music pageant each summer season
In the event you solely go to one plantation, Middleton Place is my choose due to the gardens and grounds. The home isn’t too shabby both.
It’s also possible to take guided excursions of the plantation houses and be taught concerning the lives of the enslaved individuals who labored on these estates.
Get excursions and entrance tickets to the plantations prematurely:
6. Step Again In Time At The Charleston Museum
In the event you’re searching for issues to do in Charleston on a wet day on the town, the Charleston Museum is a good place to go.
The museum was based in 1773, making it the oldest museum in the USA.
The museum options an in depth assortment of artifacts and reveals that supply guests a glimpse into town’s wealthy historical past and tradition, plus some artifacts from prehistory.
7. Go to Magnolia Cemetery
As an alternative of losing time on the lengthy ferry to Fort Sumter or staring right into a pool of water housing the Hunley, go to Magnolia Cemetery.
That is the resting place of a whole bunch of American Civil Conflict troopers, outdated Charleston households and all three crews of the Hunley.
Based in 1849, the cemetery options gorgeous monuments, intricately designed tombstones, and historic oak bushes that present a peaceable and serene ambiance.
As you stroll by the cemetery, you possibly can see the ultimate resting place of many notable figures from Charleston’s previous, together with politicians, army leaders, and artists.
8. Wander Round Charleston
In the event you actually need to get to know town, skip the horse-drawn carriage excursions as a result of the therapy is questionable.
You may additionally need to skip the ferry to Fort Sumter Nationwide Monument as a result of it’s not a lot to see until you’re a civil battle buff.
As an alternative, spend time aimlessly walking around the city. That is one of the simplest ways to see the genuine tradition and lifestyle right here.
Throughout Marion Sq. from Decrease King lies the Higher King Design District, which has quite a lot of up-and-coming eating places, classic boutiques and bookstores.
The Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood was once principally low revenue housing, however now it’s a mixture of faculty college students, espresso retailers and eating places.
Some individuals may be involved after they hear North Charleston, however Park Circle is part of the previous Naval base. It nonetheless has that Fifties vibe and has some nice eating places.
Shem Creek is Mount Nice’s seafood mecca, with dozens of seafood joints and boat constitution corporations lining the inlet.
Old Town reminds us of the time earlier than Charleston turned what it’s as we speak with an old school pharmacy and retailer. It was additionally the backdrop for scenes in The Pocket book.
John’s Island isn’t a neighborhood as such, however an island off the coast of Charleston. It’s nonetheless very rural, but it surely’s well worth the drive only for Angel Oak, the biggest dwelling factor east of the Mississippi.
You may additionally need to expertise the barrier islands like Edisto, Kiawah, Johns, and Wadmalaw, which provide unreal pure magnificence.
Avondale in West Ashley has a pleasant eating and procuring space frequented by younger professionals.
9. Go For A Night time on the City in Charleston
Charleston has a full of life night time life scene and is a superb metropolis for younger (and outdated) vacationers who like to celebration and luxuriate in an evening in town. It’s additionally well-known for it’s speakeasy bars, that are hidden behind doorways and telephone cubicles.
Higher King is the place many of the faculty bars are positioned, however that simply signifies that they’re not overpriced.
They’re all inside strolling distance of one another so you possibly can put on the lovable sneakers as a substitute of the comfy ones.
Market Road has probably the most bars however can get crowded and cost covers throughout excessive season. Try Mad River, housed inside a former church, and Market Road Saloon, the place girls dance on the bar Coyote Ugly-style.
Bars in Charleston
Rooftop is on the roof of the Vendue Inn and has lovely views of downtown Charleston. The cocktail listing has Southern-influenced martinis, just like the Charleston Sweetini.
The Griffon is an English-style pub the place it’s custom to put in writing your title on a greenback invoice and staple it to the wall. Additionally they serve wonderful conventional English fish ‘n’ chips.
The Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka distillery is now open for excursions, which suggests you possibly can see the place the vodka is produced and even sip on some.
Gene’s Haufbrau is a bar for beer lovers, full with over 150 beers and as a lot bar meals.
My favourite neighborhood bar was at all times AC’s Bar and Grill as a result of they’ve a Beer of the Month particular. Their Sunday brunch is right for absorbing final night time’s booze.
10. Test Out the Markets & Retailers in Charleston
The epicenter of downtown Charleston is King Road, residence to all one of the best bars, eating places and shops. It’s additionally one of the best place for individuals watching. As soon as a month, town shuts down a part of it for pedestrians to stroll freely.
King Road is a procuring haven in its personal proper, from Morris Road on Higher King all the way in which all the way down to the top.
You’ll discover a vary of shops, together with classic clothes, information, books, antiques, high-end boutiques and chains.
The Historic Charleston City Market has been utterly refurbished and now has everlasting cubicles in addition to non permanent cubicles, promoting the well-known sweetgrass baskets and different native wares. The Charleston Farmer’s Market not solely sells able to eat meals however sells native artwork and crafts and recent produce.
The Tanger Outlets in North Charleston provide offers on Fossil, Coach, BCBG and different high-end manufacturers.
11. Attend One in all The High Charleston Festivals
Charleston has a whole bunch of occasions all year long however for sure, the largest and most well-known is the Spoleto USA Arts Festival.
The Cooper River Bridge Run is one other large occasion, a 10K race over the bridge from Mount Nice. While Southeastern Wildlife Expo hosts wildlife consultants and artists.
The Charleston Wine + Food Festival brings collectively native and worldwide cooks for per week of high-quality eating.
Charleston Vogue Week hosts regional style designers and retailers.
11. Attempt Some Good Ol’ Southern Delicacies
Charleston is a foodie’s metropolis and the query most individuals ask while you’re internet hosting out-of-towners is “the place are you taking them to eat?”
Whereas there are many large title award-winning eating places, there are many finances choices to satiate your palate.
Price range locations to eat in Charleston are…
- Charleston Farmers Market is the hub of all Saturday morning exercise, the place native farmers and artisans carry their produce and crafts, respectively, to promote to the general public. There are additionally meals stalls with each kind of delicacies. The longest traces are sometimes at Charleston Crepe Firm and Roti Rolls.
- Bowen’s Island Restaurant is a landmark in its personal proper and has served generations of patrons, even after a devastating hearth in 2006 destroyed years of beloved graffiti on its partitions. They’ve since rebuilt and serve up the freshest seafood on the town, which fits straight from the ocean into the fryer and onto your plate.
- Poe’s Tavern on Sullivan’s Island pays homage to the island’s former resident, Edgar Allan Poe, who frolicked as a soldier there. The entrance porch could be very inviting on a summer season day with a pint of beer in hand and a burger in entrance of you.
- Jack’s Cosmic Dogs is like eating within the Fifties. Method out in Mount Nice is that this roadside cease, recognized for “cosmic” canines with particular candy potato mustard and hand reduce fries.
For extra upmarket locations to eat in Charleston, try the next locations:
- Husk is a restaurant owned by McCrady’s Sean Brock, who has been nominated for numerous James Beard awards. Both restaurant is a certain factor for terrific meals and ambiance.
- FIG, quick for Meals is Good, is one other award winner led by chef Mike Lata. Positioned on Assembly Road, it’s the best place to impress out of towners.
- Halls Chophouse is thought for one of the best cuts of steak with sides to share, finest for particular events or only a cocktail after dinner.
- Fleet Landing is on the cheaper finish of the upmarket scale and is the one waterfront restaurant downtown. The refurbished Navy dock has scrumptious seafood and nice views at sundown.
12. Chill out on Folly Island’s Seashores
Folly Island is an enthralling barrier island simply exterior of Charleston recognized for its laid-back ambiance and gorgeous pure magnificence.
The island options miles of pristine seashores, particularly Folly Seaside, which is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and browsing.
It’s also possible to stroll across the island and discover the charming eating places, cafes, and retailers, or take a stroll alongside the long-lasting pier.
With its relaxed vibe and delightful surroundings, Folly Seaside is the right place to go when it’s good to escape the hustle and bustle of town.
13. Head over to Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island is one other barrier island that has miles of pristine seashores, world-class golf programs, and ample alternatives for outside adventures.
You’ll be able to take a leisurely bike trip alongside the island’s many nature trails, go kayaking or paddleboarding, or just calm down on the seashore and take in the solar.
14. Spend A Day At The South Carolina Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium is the right factor to do in Charleston on a wet day.
The aquarium options a number of reveals that showcase the varied and wonderful creatures that decision the waters of the Lowcountry residence, together with sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays.
Guests may be taught concerning the aquarium’s conservation efforts and take part in academic packages, and even pay a go to to the contact tank which lets you stand up near a number of the marine life.
15. Test Out Patriots Level Naval & Maritime Museum
Patriots Level Naval & Maritime Museum is a good place to go to for anybody serious about army historical past and naval expertise.
The museum options a number of reveals that showcase the area’s army heritage, together with the USS Yorktown plane provider, a World Conflict II-era plane provider that’s now a floating museum.
Discover the ship’s many decks and compartments, be taught concerning the lives of the sailors who served aboard her, and even climb into the cockpit of fighter jet.
16. Go to the Outdated Trade and Provost Dungeon
The Outdated Trade and Provost Dungeon permits guests to glimpse into town’s colonial and Revolutionary Conflict-era historical past.
The constructing itself served as a hub for political and social exercise through the 18th century and was even used as a jail through the American Revolution.
You’ll be able to take a guided tour of the constructing and discover the Provost Dungeon, the place prisoners of battle have been held through the battle.
The museum additionally options a number of reveals that showcase Charleston’s function within the American Revolution and town’s wealthy cultural heritage.
17. Admire the Views from Ravenel Bridge
The Ravenel Bridge is a marvel of engineering that provides breathtaking views of town and its surrounding waterways.
The cable-stayed bridge spans over two miles throughout the Cooper River, connecting downtown Charleston with Mount Nice.
You’ll be able to take a leisurely stroll or bike trip alongside the bridge’s pedestrian path, which presents panoramic views of town skyline and the harbor.
The bridge can also be illuminated at night time, creating a surprising visible show that’s not to be missed.
The place to Keep in Charleston, South Carolina
In the event you’re unsure the place to remain in Charleston, listed here are a few counsel resorts and trip leases.
In the event you’re visiting on a finances, it’s possible you’ll need to try…
- Charleston Not So Hostel is the one hostel in Charleston and even within the state of South Carolina. The Spring Road location presents each dorm and personal rooms they usually’ve lately opened a second location on Cannon Road that has extra non-public rooms.
- Embassy Suites is positioned in Marion Sq.’s former Citadel constructing they usually have one of the best lodge breakfast on the town.
- The Charleston Marriott on Lockwood Boulevard has views of the Marina, is a brief stroll from the Charleston Riverdogs baseball stadium. The Aqua Terrace rooftop bar is ideal for a sundown drink.
You probably have a little bit extra in your finances, these are some wonderful upmarket locations to remain in Charleston…
- Arguably probably the most luxurious lodge on the town, Charleston Place has world well-known eating places, procuring and a spa.
- The Francis Marion Hotel is the one tall constructing in sight, having been inbuilt 1924 earlier than the rule was established you can’t construct greater than the church steeples.
- Who wouldn’t need to sleep in the identical lodge that Robert E. Lee and Theodore Roosevelt stayed in? The Mills House Hotel is a Charleston landmark.
Finest Time of Yr to Go to Charleston
Spring is one of the best time of yr to go to Charleston as it may be sweltering in the summertime. Autumn brings with it the luxurious autumn foliage, and winters are additionally delicate.
Getting To and From Charleston
Charleston Worldwide Airport is the hub for regional flights from Charlotte and Atlanta however presents some direct flights.
Delta and Southwest are the primary airways that service the airport, however American, United and US Airways additionally fly there.
Amtrak and Greyhound each make stops in North Charleston. If you’re driving, you’ll come into city from freeway I-26 or I-95. US-17 additionally runs alongside the coast. Check here for rental car prices and availability.
In terms of getting round Charleston, your finest type of transport is your individual two ft.
Charleston is a metropolis made for strolling, with almost every thing you want inside a 15-minute stroll.
CARTA buses provide a free route from King Road to the Aquarium, however the different buses may be troublesome for guests to navigate.
Your finest guess to get round city is the pedicabs run by faculty college students or by automobile. Simply bear in mind, there are many a technique streets!
Ultimate Ideas on Issues to Do in Charleston
I really like Charleston as a result of it’s the right mixture of latest and outdated and it’s always evolving.
It’s a spot the place faculty college students go to the seashore between lessons and the place it’s commonplace to see males rocking seersucker pants.
Manners are nonetheless vital however the metropolis has as a lot tradition and nightlife as you would discover wherever within the lowcountry.
I hope this information helped you propose some issues to do in Charleston and gave you some inspiration in your subsequent journey.
Extra South Carolina And East Coast Ideas
Want extra inspiration for issues to do in South Carolina and the East Coast? Then these different assets could also be useful…
BIO: Caroline Eubanks is a author and journey blogger from Atlanta, Georgia. After going to school in Charleston, she spent a yr touring round Australia. You’ll be able to learn extra about her on her weblog, Caroline in the City.
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