Charleston – The Southern Gem of the East Coast

Charleston is a coastal city located in South Carolina and is known for its rich history and unique culture. From beautiful beaches to historic sites, Charleston is the perfect destination for a fun and relaxing getaway. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or culture, Charleston is sure to have something to suit you. Read on to discover some of the best things to do in Charleston.

A Brief History of Charleston

Charleston was founded in 1670 by English settlers who named it in honor of King Charles II. It quickly became an important port city and an important colonial city in the American Revolution. Today, it is the second largest city in South Carolina and is home to a population of over 130,000 people.

Throughout its long history, Charleston has been a hub of activity and culture. From the 18th century architecture to the cobblestone streets, Charleston has a unique charm that makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. The city is also known for its art galleries, museums, restaurants, and boutique shops.

Things to Do in Charleston

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Charleston. Here are some of the best things to do in the city:

Explore the Historic District

The Historic District of Charleston is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. Here, you can explore the cobblestone streets, admire the colonial architecture, and take in the city’s rich history. There are plenty of museums, art galleries, and boutique shops to explore, as well as some of the city’s finest restaurants.

Visit Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Located just outside of Charleston, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden that offers stunning views of the Ashley River. The gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a number of historic buildings. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the plantation house, explore the grounds on a tram ride, or take a boat ride down the Ashley River.

Take a Tour of Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter is a historic fort located in Charleston Harbor. It was here that the first shots of the Civil War were fired and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Visitors can take a boat tour of the fort and learn about its history and importance in American history.

Stroll Through White Point Garden

White Point Garden is one of Charleston’s oldest parks. Located near the Battery wall, it offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor. Here, visitors can enjoy walking trails, fountains, monuments, and plenty of lush vegetation. It’s also a great place to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Visit Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row is one of Charleston’s most iconic sights. Located along East Bay Street, it is home to a row of colorful historic homes that have become a symbol of Charleston’s unique charm. Visitors can take a stroll along Rainbow Row and admire the beautiful homes, or take a guided tour to learn more about their history and significance.

Explore Middleton Place

Middleton Place is one of Charleston’s most beautiful gardens. It features acres of lush vegetation and stunning views of the Ashley River. Visitors can explore the gardens on foot or take a guided tour to learn more about the history of Middleton Place and its importance in American history.

Popular Tours in Charleston

If you’re looking for an immersive experience that will let you explore Charleston from a different perspective, then consider taking one of these popular tours:

Charleston Harbor & Fort Sumter Boat Tour

This boat tour offers an up-close look at some of Charleston’s most iconic sights, including Fort Sumter and the Battery wall. The tour takes visitors around Charleston Harbor and provides an interesting commentary about local history and culture along the way. The tour lasts approximately two hours and includes a stop at Fort Sumter where visitors can explore the fort and learn more about its importance in American history. You can book this tour here.

Charleston Walking Tour

This two-hour walking tour takes visitors through some of Charleston’s most historic neighborhoods and allows them to explore some of the city’s most iconic sights up close. The tour includes stops at Rainbow Row, White Point Garden, and other key locations around town. The tour also offers an interesting commentary about local history and culture along the way. You can book this tour here.

Middleton Place Plantation Tour

This two-hour tour takes visitors through some of Middleton Place’s most beautiful gardens and allows them to explore some of its most important historical sites up close. The tour includes stops at the plantation house, garden house, slave quarters, and other key locations around the estate. The tour also offers an interesting commentary about local history and culture along the way. You can book this tour here.

Conclusion

Charleston is a beautiful city with an abundance of sights and activities for visitors to explore. From exploring the city’s historic district to taking a guided tour of Fort Sumter or Middleton Place, there’s something for everyone in Charleston. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, Charleston is sure to have something that suits your interests. So why not take some time to explore this southern gem?