All You Need To Know About Charleston

Charleston is one of South Carolina’s most historic cities and a popular destination for millions of tourists. It is known for its old cobblestone streets, well-preserved architecture, and plethora of activities. Whether you’re looking for the best seafood or a place to explore nature, Charleston has it all. Here’s a closer look at all you need to know about visiting Charleston.

History Of Charleston

Charleston has a rich colonial history that dates back to 1670 when English settlers arrived in the area. Over the centuries, the city has been occupied by various inhabitants and welcomed various cultures, making it an incredibly diverse place. Early on, the city became an international trading port and today, the Port of Charleston is still an integral part of the local economy.

Throughout the Revolutionary War, Charleston was a target city of British forces. In order to protect the settlement, residents built several forts such as Fort Moultrie, which is still standing today on Sullivans Island. After the War of 1812, Charleston began to develop as a modern city and experienced a major population boom.

Things To Do In Charleston

From exploring waterways to visiting historic sites, there is a multitude of things to do in Charleston. To start, there are dozens of unique museums and galleries that showcase the city’s diverse culture and history. A few must-sees are the Charleston Museum, which holds America’s oldest collection of artifacts, and the Gibbes Museum of Art, with its impressive collection of works by local artists.

Water activities are also huge in Charleston. Visitors can kayak and paddle board on local rivers or around the harbor. Fishing charters are also a great way to experience the city. Of course, no visit would be complete without a stroll along the Battery and Rainbow Row of old buildings and homes from Charleston’s colonial era.

Food In Charleston

Seafood is definitely one of the most popular foods in Charleston – and for good reason. Visitors should sample specialties such as lowcountry boil, Frogmore Stew, and she-crab soup – a dish made with cream, crab claws, scallions, and sherry that is said to have originated in the city.

No matter how you choose to sample it, seafood is an important part of the city’s history and culture. From traditional home cooked meals to contemporary gourmet seafood dishes, visitors won’t be disappointed by any dining experience they have while in Charleston.

Final Thoughts

Charleston is a fascinating city with a wealth of attractions to explore. The best way to really get an understanding of all that the city has to offer is to visit for yourself. There are many great accommodations, restaurants, and activities to enjoy that all together make for a dynamic city experience. So take some time to see why Charleston has been named one of America’s top travel destinations.Charleston Tourism offers lots of helpful insight into planning your visit there!

All You Need To Know About Charleston

Charleston, located in the state of South Carolina, is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore a historic and charming city filled with cultural significance and southern hospitality. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at the city’s top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for tourists.

Attractions

Charleston’s attractions are numerous, and you’ll have plenty to do and see in this historic city. Here are some of the top attractions you should consider visiting:

– The Battery: This is a seawall promenade that stretches along the Charleston Harbor. This is a great spot for a leisurely walk with fantastic views of the harbor and historic homes.
– Fort Sumter National Monument: This is an important historical site where the Civil War began. You can take a ferry to the fort and visit its museum and exhibits.
– Charleston City Market: This is a popular shopping spot, where you can browse through local handmade crafts, souvenirs, and food.
– Middleton Place: This is a beautiful plantation located on the Ashley River and boasts America’s oldest landscaped gardens. You can take a tour of the plantation, explore the gardens, and see demonstrations of traditional crafts.

Dining Spots

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the culinary scene in Charleston. Here are some of the best dining spots in the city:

– Husk: This restaurant is known for its farm-to-table cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients. It’s like a love letter to Charleston cuisine.
– FIG: This restaurant focuses on globally-inspired cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
– Hominy Grill: This restaurant serves traditional Southern breakfast, brunch, and lunch fare featuring grits, biscuits, and more.
– Minero: This restaurant specializes in Mexican cuisine and is famous for their fresh guacamole and margaritas.

Cultural Experiences

Charleston is a city steeped in history and culture. Here are some must-visit cultural experiences:

– The Charleston Museum: This is the oldest museum in the United States and has an extensive collection of historical artifacts, clothing, and furniture of Lowcountry life.
– The Gibbes Museum of Art: Founded in 1905, the museum has a collection of fine art created by artists of the American South and Charleston that showcases their unique history and perspective.
– The Spoleto Festival: This is an annual performing arts festival that includes music, theater, and dance performances held during late May and early June.
– The Dock Street Theatre: Located in the heart of Charleston’s French Quarter, The Dock Street Theatre is one of the oldest theaters in the country and plays a significant role in Charleston’s arts and culture scene.

Local History

Charleston is a city with deep historical roots dating back to the 17th century. Here are some historical landmarks to consider visiting:

– The Aiken-Rhett House: This historic house was built in 1820 and provides insight into the lives of Charleston’s elite families in the 19th century.
– Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: This plantation dates back to the 1670s and is one of the oldest gardens in America.
– Nathaniel Russell House: This beautiful historic home is an example of Federal-style architecture and has been restored to its original grandeur.
– Fort Moultrie: This fort has been in use since the American Revolution and played an important role in various wars. You can explore the fort and its museum for an in-depth look into the history of the United States.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to explore Charleston off the beaten path, here are some unique experiences to consider:

– The Angel Oak Tree: Located on John’s Island, this beautiful oak tree is estimated to be over 1,500 years old and is a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
– Rainbow Row: These 13 colorful Georgian-style houses are located on East Bay Street and are a great backdrop for your Instagram photos.
– Sullivan’s Island: This is a beautiful and pristine beach located just 10 miles from downtown Charleston that is a perfect spot for beachgoers.
– Shem Creek: This is a quaint fishing village located in Mount Pleasant, an easy drive from downtown Charleston. This spot is known for its seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the boats go by.

In conclusion, Charleston is a city with something for everyone – rich history, charming architecture, delicious food, and a unique cultural experience. Use this insider’s guide to explore and enjoy all that Charleston has to offer.