The 5 Best Attractions Nearby in Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina is a charming city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and warm hospitality. With so much to do and see, it can be overwhelming to plan an itinerary for your trip. That’s why we’ve gathered together the top attractions and activities to help you make the most of your time in Charleston. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food, or just soaking up the Southern charm, there’s something for everyone in this delightful city. So grab a sweet tea and join us as we explore the best things to do in Charleston.

The 5 Best Attractions Nearby in Charleston

1. Historic District Haunted Pub Crawl

Check out Historic District Haunted Pub Crawl

Immerse yourself in the dark and haunted history of Charleston with the city’s best storytellers on a 2.5 hour haunted pub crawl. Visit multiple taverns and haunted locations, each with its own paranormal history. Discover the Holy City’s past of bloodthirsty pirates, tragic lovers, vengeful poltergeists, and ghost ships as you explore the spectral patrons of Charleston’s theaters, restaurants, and hotels. Learn about the tragic history of Anna Ravenel, Sue Hardy, and Doctor Lad, and experience the hauntings of Charleston as told by master storytellers. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and drinks while you discover why “when you’re in Charleston you’re never alone”. Note that this tour is not suitable for people under 21 years.

2. Guided Pub Crawl Haunted History

Check out Guided Pub Crawl Haunted History

Embark on a fascinating guided pub crawl through historic Charleston for a night of spooky tales and potent drinks. Led by a knowledgeable and engaging guide, you’ll explore the city’s darker side as you visit key locations such as The Pink House and Powder Magazine. Hear stories of the notorious colonists, pirates, and bootleggers that helped shape the city’s history, and discover Charleston’s place in the Civil War and Prohibition eras. Along the way, you’ll hop between various pubs and taverns, raising a glass with fellow pub-crawlers and swapping more terrifying tales. This tour is not suitable for anyone under the age of 21. Entry tickets, drinks, and tips are all included. Come and follow in the footsteps of Charleston’s most infamous characters on this spine-tingling tour.

3. Walking History Bar Tour

Check out Walking History Bar Tour

Sip your way through 300 years of local history on a guided Walking History Bar Tour of Downtown Charleston. Explore the French Quarter and two of the city’s most popular bars while immersing yourself in local history from a licensed guide and historic commissioner. Try drinks from local breweries and distilleries as you stroll through the charming alleyways and cobblestone streets of Charleston to several cultural sights including a dungeon, original city theater, and 300-year-old homes. Hear stories of the Prohibition era and its effects on the city’s residents at the second stop. Finish the tour at a local park near the waterfront for one last drink and to hear some of the city’s secret stories only locals know about. This is a perfect opportunity to see Charleston’s main sites and enjoy some drinks along the way.

4. Pirates, Patriots Prohibition Private Evening

Check out Pirates, Patriots Prohibition Private Evening

Experience the thrill of Charleston’s fascinating history with the ‘Pirates, Patriots Prohibition Private Evening’ tour. Join your professional Native Charlestonian Tour Guide for a one-hour walking tour to discover the city’s secrets under the cover of night.
Meet your guide at the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon and explore the area, hearing stories about pirates, patriots and prohibition. Your guide will share their local knowledge and fascinating facts about the city’s rich history as you stroll through the charming streets.
Finally, end your tour outside the Blind Tiger Pub. Don’t worry about parking fees and gratuities – they are all included! Note that this tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues and service animals are allowed.
Book with confidence, as confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. This is a private tour, and only your group will participate. Cancelling up to 24 hours in advance of the experience will grant you a full refund.
Join us for the ‘Pirates, Patriots Prohibition Private Evening’ tour and explore Charleston like never before!

5. Historic Pubs, Taverns, Taprooms Tour

Check out Historic Pubs, Taverns, Taprooms Tour

If you’re in the mood for a different and exciting night out, Charleston Historic Pubs Taverns, and Taprooms Tour is the perfect match for you. Delve into Charleston’s rich history while enjoying delicious drinks at three different pubs of French Quarter. The City-certified guide will take you on a journey through the past with tales of pirates, politics and more, making it a perfect tour for both history enthusiasts and alcohol lovers alike. The tour includes one drink and shared appetizer at each stop, with additional drinks available for purchase. The meeting point is inside Charleston Culinary Tours, where you can find convenient bathrooms before you head out. Come and join the fun-filled night exploring the best historic pubs Charleston has to offer on this fantastic tour.

Frequently Asked Questions About Charleston

Charleston is a historic city in South Carolina known for its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and historical landmarks. With its rich history, delicious food, and friendly locals, it’s no surprise that Charleston is a popular destination for tourists. If you’re planning a trip to this charming city, you may have some questions. We’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about Charleston to help you plan your trip.

1. When is the Best Time to Visit Charleston?

Charleston is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in the spring and fall when the temperatures are mild, and the crowds are smaller. The weather is also comfortable during these seasons, making it perfect for exploring the city’s many outdoor attractions.

2. What are the Must-See Attractions in Charleston?

Charleston has a wide variety of attractions to explore, from historic landmarks to museums and galleries. Some of the must-see attractions in Charleston include:

The Battery

Charleston City Market

Rainbow Row

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Fort Sumter National Monument

3. What is the Food Like in Charleston?

Charleston is known for its delicious Lowcountry cuisine, which is a blend of seafood, rice, and vegetables. Some of the must-try dishes in Charleston include shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes. There are also plenty of excellent restaurants in Charleston, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.

4. What is the Nightlife Like in Charleston?

Charleston has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Some of the best places to go for nightlife in Charleston include:

The Cocktail Club

Uptown Social

The Royal American

The Pour House

5. How is the Weather in Charleston?

Charleston has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The average high temperature in the summer is around 90 degrees, while the average low temperature in the winter is around 40 degrees. It’s important to note that Charleston is also at risk for hurricanes during the summer and fall months.

6. Is Charleston a Safe City?

Charleston is generally considered a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, like any city, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone at night, keep your valuables secured, and be aware of your surroundings.

7. What is the Best Way to Get Around Charleston?

Charleston is a walkable city, and many of the popular attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you want to venture outside of the downtown area, you may need to use public transportation or rent a car. There are also bike rental options available if you want to explore the city on two wheels.

8. Are There Any Beaches Near Charleston?

Yes, there are several beaches located near Charleston, including:

Folly Beach

Isle of Palms

Sullivan’s Island

These beaches offer beautiful stretches of sandy shoreline and plenty of water activities, such as swimming, surfing, and kayaking.

9. What is the History of Charleston?

Charleston has a long and interesting history, dating back to its founding in 1670. The city played an important role in the American Revolution and the Civil War, and was also a major port for the slave trade. Today, visitors can learn about Charleston’s history by visiting its numerous historic landmarks, such as the Charleston City Market, Fort Sumter National Monument, and the Battery.

10. What Souvenirs Should I Buy in Charleston?

If you’re looking for the perfect souvenir to take home from Charleston, consider purchasing one of the following:

Sweetgrass baskets

Handmade pottery

Historical prints and maps

Bottles of locally-made hot sauce or barbecue sauce

Charleston tea or coffee

In conclusion, Charleston is a charming city with rich history, delicious food, and friendly locals. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s historic landmarks, trying its famous cuisine, or enjoying its vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Charleston. With this guide, we hope we’ve answered some of your most frequently asked questions about this beautiful city, and helped you plan your trip.

Charleston, located in the beautiful state of South Carolina, is a city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. There are so many amazing things to see and experience here, from charming cobblestone streets and historic architecture to stunning beaches and parks. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or just looking for some good old-fashioned southern hospitality, Charleston has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best attractions and things to do in this beautiful city, so you can make the most of your visit to Charleston.

The 5 Best Attractions Nearby in Charleston

1. Guided Pub Crawl Haunted History

Check out Guided Pub Crawl Haunted History

Embark on a guided pub crawl through Charleston and discover its haunted history. Explore the city’s role during the Civil War and the Prohibition era, and visit notable spots like The Pink House and Powder Magazine. Sip on drinks as you trade stories with fellow pub crawlers, following in the footsteps of the pirates and bootleggers that shaped Charleston’s past. This tour includes a guide, a walking tour, entry tickets, and drinks. Please note that this tour is not suitable for individuals under 21 years of age. Join us for a thrilling adventure through Charleston’s haunted history.

2. Historic District Haunted Pub Crawl

Check out Historic District Haunted Pub Crawl

Immerse yourself in the most terrifying hauntings of Historic Charleston with the city’s best storytellers on this 2.5 hour pub tour. Visit multiple taverns and locations, each with its own paranormal history, and learn about the Holy City’s dark past of bloodthirsty pirates, tragic lovers, vengeful poltergeists, and ghost ships. Discover the spectral patrons of Charleston’s theaters, restaurants, and hotels.

Throughout the tour, master storytellers will guide you through the hauntings of Charleston, sharing tales of tragedy and mystery. Learn about the Anna Ravenel, Sue Hardy, and Doctor Lad and uncover the reasons behind Charleston’s reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the country.

This tour is not suitable for people under 21 years old. Complimentary appetizers will be provided, but drinks are not included. Take a seat, have a drink, and get ready to explore what makes Charleston so haunted.

3. Pirates, Patriots Prohibition Private Evening

Check out Pirates, Patriots Prohibition Private Evening

Explore the dark and mysterious side of Charleston with this private evening tour. Led by a professional native Charlestonian tour guide, you’ll start with a one-hour walking tour of Historic Charleston, where you’ll discover the city’s pirate history, patriotic past, and the infamous Prohibition era.

The tour will start at the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. Meet your guide under the tree at the corner of Gillon and East Bay Streets at 6:30 pm. As you make your way through the city, your guide will regale you with stories of Charleston’s darker history.

The tour will end outside the Blind Tiger Pub on Broad Street. Please note that this tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues and requires a moderate physical fitness level.

Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is near public transportation. This is a private tour, so only your group will participate.

Cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

4. Historic Pubs, Taverns, Taprooms Tour

Check out Historic Pubs, Taverns, Taprooms Tour

If you want a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience in Charleston, look no further than the Historic Pubs Taverns and Taprooms Tour. This tour takes you to three different pubs in the French Quarter, offering a unique blend of history and drinks. Learn about fascinating tales of piracy and politics from certified guides, all while enjoying an included drink and appetizer at each stop. Other drinks are also available for purchase. The meeting location, right off State St, has convenient bathrooms before you embark on your adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or an alcohol enthusiast, this pub tour is perfect for you. With rotating routes daily, you’re sure to experience something new each time. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable Charleston experience.

5. Walking History Bar Tour

Check out Walking History Bar Tour

Sip on local beers and immerse yourself in 300 years of Charleston’s history on the Walking History Bar Tour. Led by a licensed guide and historic commissioner, explore the French Quarter and visit two of the city’s popular bars. Along the way, discover cultural sights such as a city theater, 300-year-old homes, and a dungeon. You’ll also hear stories of Charleston’s Prohibition era and its impact on residents. The tour ends at a local park near the waterfront where you can enjoy one last drink. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Charleston’s main sites and uncover some secret stories only known by locals.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Charleston

Charleston is a beautiful city in South Carolina that has a rich history and a lot of things to offer. It is not surprising that many people have questions about the city before they visit. In this blog post, we’ll cover the most frequently asked questions about Charleston to help you plan your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Charleston?

The best time to visit Charleston is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer can be very hot and humid, which can make it uncomfortable to explore the city. The winter can be cold, and there might be occasional snow, but it can also be a great time to visit if you enjoy holiday festivities.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Charleston?

There are many must-see attractions in Charleston, but some of the most popular ones include:

The Battery

Rainbow Row

Charleston City Market

Fort Sumter National Monument

Charleston Harbor

3. Where is the best place to stay in Charleston?

The best place to stay in Charleston is in the Historic District. It is close to all the main attractions and has many beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts. You can also find great accommodation options in neighborhoods like Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, and James Island if you prefer a quieter area.

4. What is the food scene like in Charleston?

The food scene in Charleston is well-known for its delicious seafood, Lowcountry cuisine, and farm-to-table restaurants. Some popular restaurants to try include Husk, FIG, and Charleston Grill. You can also find great oyster bars and barbecue joints throughout the city.

5. What are some outdoor activities to do in Charleston?

Charleston has many outdoor activities to offer. Some popular ones include:

Visiting Folly Beach

Kayaking or paddleboarding in the Charleston Harbor

Walking or biking the Ravenel Bridge

Visiting one of the city’s many parks, like Waterfront Park or White Point Garden

6. What is the history of Charleston?

Charleston has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. It was an important port city during the colonial and antebellum periods and played a significant role in the Civil War. Today, you can learn about the city’s history by visiting museums like the Charleston Museum or the Old Slave Mart Museum.

7. How do I get around Charleston?

The best way to get around Charleston is on foot. The city is very walkable and has many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. You can also rent a bike or take a carriage tour to see more of the city. If you need to go farther, there are also taxis and rideshare services available.

8. What events or festivals happen in Charleston throughout the year?

Charleston has many events and festivals throughout the year. Some popular ones include:

Charleston Wine + Food Festival in March

Spoleto Festival USA in May/June

Charleston Farmers Market (Saturdays from April to December)

Holiday Festival of Lights in December

9. Is Charleston a family-friendly destination?

Yes, Charleston is a very family-friendly destination. There are many activities and attractions that are great for kids, such as visiting the South Carolina Aquarium or the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. You can also find family-friendly restaurants and accommodation options throughout the city.

10. What is the nightlife like in Charleston?

Charleston has a vibrant nightlife scene with many great bars, clubs, and music venues. Some popular spots include The Rooftop at the Vendue, The Commodore, and The Pour House. You can also find many laid-back bars and pubs throughout the city. However, it is worth noting that some venues may have age restrictions and dress codes.

Conclusion

Charleston is a beautiful and historic city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, food, outdoor activities, or nightlife, you will find plenty to do in Charleston. We hope that this blog post has answered some of your most frequently asked questions and helped you plan your trip. Remember to book your accommodation and activities in advance, especially during peak season, and enjoy your time in this charming Southern city.

Charleston, South Carolina has long been renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and Southern charm. It’s no wonder that this city attracts millions of visitors every year. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to Charleston. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide of the best attractions and things to do in this historic city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Charleston. Read on to discover the top must-visit attractions and activities that will make your trip to Charleston an unforgettable experience.