Welcome to Charleston, South Carolina, a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and vibrant culinary scene, Charleston is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or a foodie, you're sure to find something to your liking in Charleston. From exploring the city's historic sites to savoring its delicious cuisine, there's no shortage of things to see and do in the Holy City.
In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through Charleston, highlighting some of the city's must-see attractions and hidden gems. From iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path experiences, we've got you covered.
What to Do in Charleston SC
Discover the many charms of the Holy City.
- Explore historic downtown
- Visit antebellum mansions
- Take a carriage ride
- Stroll through Waterfront Park
- Shop at the Charleston City Market
- Dine at award-winning restaurants
- See live music at local venues
- Enjoy outdoor activities
From history and architecture to culinary delights and outdoor adventures, Charleston has something for everyone.
Explore Historic Downtown
Charleston's historic downtown is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, charming shops, and delicious restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll down cobblestone streets and admire the city's iconic antebellum mansions, many of which are open to the public for tours.
Don't miss the Old City Market, a bustling marketplace that has been in operation since the 1800s. Here, you can browse a variety of stalls selling everything from souvenirs and crafts to fresh produce and local delicacies.
For a deeper dive into Charleston's history, visit the Charleston Museum, the oldest museum in the South. This fascinating museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Charleston from its founding to the present day.
After a day of exploring, relax and refuel at one of the many restaurants in downtown Charleston. From classic Southern cuisine to international fare, there's something to suit every taste. And don't forget to sample some of the city's famous sweet tea!
With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, historic downtown Charleston is a must-visit for any traveler.
Visit Antebellum Mansions
Charleston is home to some of the most beautiful and well-preserved antebellum mansions in the United States. These grand homes offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and architecture.
- Nathaniel Russell House:
One of the most iconic antebellum mansions in Charleston, the Nathaniel Russell House is known for its stunning Greek Revival architecture and elaborate gardens.
- Aiken-Rhett House:
This grand mansion was once home to the Aiken and Rhett families, two of Charleston's most prominent families. Today, it is a museum that offers a glimpse into the lives of the city's elite in the 19th century.
- Joseph Manigault House:
This elegant mansion is known for its beautiful gardens and its collection of 18th-century furniture. It is also one of the few antebellum mansions in Charleston that is still privately owned.
- Heyward-Washington House:
This historic mansion was once home to Thomas Heyward, Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and George Washington, the first President of the United States. Today, it is a museum that tells the story of these two important figures.
These are just a few of the many antebellum mansions that you can visit in Charleston. With their beautiful architecture and fascinating history, these homes are a must-see for any visitor to the city.
Take a Carriage Ride
One of the best ways to experience the charm of Charleston is to take a carriage ride through the city's historic downtown. These leisurely rides are narrated by knowledgeable guides who will share stories about the city's history, architecture, and culture.
As you ride through the streets, you'll see some of Charleston's most iconic landmarks, including the Old City Market, the Battery, and Rainbow Row. You'll also get a glimpse of the city's beautiful antebellum mansions and historic churches.
Carriage rides are a popular activity for both tourists and locals alike. They're a great way to learn about Charleston's history and see the city's sights without having to walk. And, of course, they're also a lot of fun!
Carriage rides typically last for about an hour and cost around $20 per person. You can find carriage rides at various locations throughout the city, including the Old City Market and Waterfront Park.
Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a leisurely ride, a carriage ride is a great way to experience the beauty and charm of Charleston.
Stroll through Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is a beautiful 10-acre park located along the Cooper River in downtown Charleston. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the views of the river and the city skyline.
- Pier:
The park's highlight is its long pier, which juts out into the Cooper River. Stroll along the pier to enjoy stunning views of the river, the city skyline, and the Ravenel Bridge. You can also fish from the pier or simply sit and enjoy the breeze.
- Walking Trails:
Waterfront Park also has a network of walking trails that wind through the park's gardens and green spaces. These trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous walk.
- Playground:
There is also a playground in the park, making it a great place for families with young children. The playground has a variety of equipment, including swings, slides, and a climbing structure.
- Events:
Throughout the year, Waterfront Park hosts a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, and art shows. Check the park's website for a calendar of upcoming events.
Waterfront Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors in Charleston. It's also a great place to take a break from sightseeing and simply enjoy the beauty of the city.
Shop at the Charleston City Market
The Charleston City Market is a bustling marketplace that has been in operation since the 1800s. It's a great place to find souvenirs, gifts, and local products. The market is also home to a variety of restaurants and food stalls, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat.
The market is divided into two sections: the Upper Market and the Lower Market. The Upper Market is home to a variety of stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and other gift items. The Lower Market is where you'll find fresh produce, seafood, and other food items.
The Charleston City Market is a great place to find unique and interesting items. You're sure to find something to your liking, whether you're looking for a souvenir to take home or a gift for a friend or family member.
The market is open every day of the week, but it's especially lively on weekends. If you're looking for a more relaxed shopping experience, I recommend visiting during the week. But if you're looking for a more vibrant atmosphere, then a weekend visit is the way to go.
No matter when you visit, the Charleston City Market is a great place to experience the city's culture and find some unique souvenirs to take home.
Dine at Award-Winning Restaurants
Charleston is a foodie's paradise, with a wide variety of award-winning restaurants to choose from. Whether you're looking for fine dining, casual dining, or something in between, you're sure to find a restaurant that suits your taste and budget.
- Husk:
This award-winning restaurant is known for its innovative take on Southern cuisine. Chef Sean Brock uses fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing.
- The Ordinary:
This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh catches and creative dishes. The menu changes daily depending on what's available, so you're sure to find something new and exciting every time you visit.
- FIG:
This farm-to-table restaurant is known for its seasonal menu and its commitment to using local, sustainable ingredients. The menu changes frequently, but you can always expect to find fresh, flavorful dishes.
- The Fat Hen:
This casual restaurant is known for its fried chicken and other Southern comfort food dishes. The chicken is brined and fried to perfection, and the sides are all homemade.
These are just a few of the many award-winning restaurants that you can find in Charleston. With so many great options to choose from, you're sure to have a memorable dining experience.
See Live Music at Local Venues
Charleston has a vibrant live music scene, with something to offer everyone. From jazz and blues to rock and country, you're sure to find a live music venue that suits your taste.
Some of the most popular live music venues in Charleston include:
- The Music Farm:
This outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of concerts, from national touring acts to local bands.
- The Charleston Music Hall:
This historic venue hosts a variety of live music events, including concerts, comedy shows, and dance parties.
- The Pour House:
This intimate venue hosts a variety of live music events, including concerts, DJ sets, and open mic nights.
- The Windjammer:
This beachfront bar and restaurant hosts live music every night of the week, featuring a variety of genres.
These are just a few of the many live music venues that you can find in Charleston. With so many great options to choose from, you're sure to find a place to enjoy some great music and have a memorable night out.
Whether you're a fan of jazz, blues, rock, country, or any other genre of music, you're sure to find something to your liking in Charleston.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Charleston is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities, with its mild climate and abundance of parks and green spaces.
- Take a walk or bike ride through Waterfront Park:
This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Cooper River and the city skyline. It's a great place to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.
- Visit the Charleston Battery:
This historic park is located at the tip of the Charleston peninsula. It offers beautiful views of the harbor and Fort Sumter. You can also take a walk along the seawall or visit the park's museum.
- Go kayaking or paddleboarding in the Charleston Harbor:
There are several companies that offer kayak and paddleboard rentals. This is a great way to explore the harbor and get a different perspective of the city.
- Take a boat tour of the Charleston Harbor:
There are several companies that offer boat tours of the Charleston Harbor. This is a great way to learn about the city's history and see some of its most iconic landmarks.
These are just a few of the many outdoor activities that you can enjoy in Charleston. With its mild climate and abundance of parks and green spaces, Charleston is a great place to get active and enjoy the outdoors.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about what to do in Charleston, SC:
Question 1: What are some of the most popular things to do in Charleston?
Answer 1: Some of the most popular things to do in Charleston include exploring the city's historic downtown, visiting antebellum mansions, taking a carriage ride, and strolling through Waterfront Park.
Question 2: What are some of the best restaurants in Charleston?
Answer 2: Charleston has a wide variety of award-winning restaurants, including Husk, The Ordinary, FIG, and The Fat Hen.
Question 3: Where can I find live music in Charleston?
Answer 3: Charleston has a vibrant live music scene, with many venues offering live music every night of the week. Some popular venues include The Music Farm, The Charleston Music Hall, The Pour House, and The Windjammer.
Question 4: What are some outdoor activities that I can enjoy in Charleston?
Answer 4: Charleston has many parks and green spaces where you can enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours.
Question 5: What are some of the best museums in Charleston?
Answer 5: Charleston has several excellent museums, including the Charleston Museum, the Gibbes Museum of Art, and the Old Slave Mart Museum.
Question 6: What are some tips for getting around Charleston?
Answer 6: Charleston is a very walkable city, and many of the city's attractions are located within walking distance of each other. You can also take advantage of the city's public transportation system, which includes buses and ferries.
Question 7: What are some tips for saving money on my trip to Charleston?
Answer 7: There are several ways to save money on your trip to Charleston. One way is to take advantage of the city's many free attractions, such as the Waterfront Park and the Old Slave Mart Museum. You can also save money by eating at local restaurants and staying in budget-friendly hotels.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about what to do in Charleston, SC. For more information, please visit the Charleston Visitors Bureau website.
In addition to the FAQ section above, here are a few tips for planning your trip to Charleston:
Tips
Here are a few tips for planning your trip to Charleston:
Tip 1: Plan your trip during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October).
During these times, the weather is still mild, but the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower.
Tip 2: Purchase a Charleston Pass.
This pass gives you access to many of the city's top attractions, including the Charleston Museum, the Gibbes Museum of Art, and the Old Slave Mart Museum. It's a great way to save money if you're planning on visiting multiple attractions.
Tip 3: Take advantage of the city's free attractions.
Charleston has many free attractions, such as the Waterfront Park, the Old Slave Mart Museum, and the Charleston City Market. These are great ways to experience the city without spending a lot of money.
Tip 4: Get around the city on foot or by bike.
Charleston is a very walkable city, and many of the city's attractions are located within walking distance of each other. You can also rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
By following these tips, you can save money and have a memorable trip to Charleston.
With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, Charleston is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
Conclusion
With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, Charleston is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
In this guide, we've explored some of the many things that you can see and do in Charleston, from exploring the city's historic downtown to enjoying its delicious cuisine.
Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or a foodie, you're sure to find something to your liking in Charleston.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Holy City today!