A Guide to Charleston Must Do

Charleston, South Carolina is a picturesque coastal city with a past as vibrant and colorful as its skyline. This city of over 135,000 residents is widely known for its rich history and stunning architecture, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. From its unique blend of cultures to its eclectic mix of attractions and activities, Charleston offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s past or experience its modern-day offerings, here is a guide to the must-do activities in Charleston.

Explore Historic Sites

Charleston is home to some of the nation’s most well-preserved historic sites. A great way to explore the city’s past is to take a guided tour of the Historic Charleston City Market, which dates back to the 1800s and is one of the longest running markets in the country. Here, you can take in the sights and smells of the market and grab some souvenirs to take home. Another great tour is the Old City Jail Tour, which offers a unique look at the city’s criminal and judicial history.

For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Middleton Place Plantation, a National Historic Landmark, is a must-visit. This working plantation dates back to 1668 and offers visitors a unique look into the history of the Lowcountry. Here, you can explore the grounds and admire the intricate gardens and lush landscapes, learning about the culture and lifestyle of this region.

Enjoy the Arts

Charleston is home to a vibrant arts scene that draws visitors from all over. Start your artistic journey at the Gibbes Museum of Art, which houses a wide range of works from both local and international artists. Here, you can explore the evolution of art over time and admire the works of some of the most celebrated artists in history. For those looking for a more unique experience, the City Gallery at Waterfront Park is a great place to explore. This gallery features rotating exhibits that highlight the work of emerging, local artists from all over the region.

The theater scene in Charleston is also vibrant and full of energy, offering something for everyone. The Dock Street Theatre is one of the oldest theaters in the country, having opened in 1736, and hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. For those looking for something a little more modern, The Footlight Players offer a variety of plays and musicals that are sure to delight.

Experience Nature

Charleston is surrounded by natural beauty and offers visitors some of the best outdoor experiences in South Carolina. Start your nature exploration at Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, which houses a replica of one of the original settlements from 1670. Here, visitors can explore nature trails and visit a variety of exhibits that tell the story of this region’s early days.

For those looking for more adventure, Folly Beach is one of Charleston’s favorite outdoor destinations. This five-mile stretch of beach is one of the best places to relax and take in some sun. It’s also popular for surfing, fishing, and other water sports. For a unique experience, you can also take an eco-tour through Folly Creek Nature Preserve and learn about the area’s unique wildlife and ecosystems.

Sample Delicious Cuisine

Charleston is known for its delicious culinary offerings, offering visitors an array of options that range from traditional southern fare to fresh seafood dishes. Start your culinary exploration at The Ordinary, a seafood restaurant housed in an old bank building that serves up some of the freshest seafood dishes in town. For those looking for something more traditional, Husk Restaurant is one of Charleston’s most beloved restaurants, serving up classic southern dishes with modern twists.

For those with a sweet tooth, Kaminsky’s Dessert Café is one of Charleston’s favorite spots for indulging in delicious treats. Here, you can sample cakes, cookies, pies, and other delectable desserts.

Sample Craft Beverages

Charleston is also home to an emerging craft beverage scene with a variety of breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries offering unique drinks for visitors to enjoy. Start your craft beverage exploration at The Workshop Brewing Company where you can sample some of their award-winning beers and ciders. For those looking for something sweeter, Firefly Distillery offers moonshine tastings that are sure to delight any palate.

The Lowcountry also has its own winery scene with options like Deep Water Vineyard offering a variety of wines crafted from locally sourced grapes. Finally, if you’re looking to sample some locally made spirits, High Wire Distilling Co., offers craft cocktails made with their house-made liquors and spirits.

Take an Educational Tour

For those looking for a more educational experience while in Charleston, there are plenty of great tours that offer insight into the city’s rich past. The American Revolution Tour gives visitors the chance to explore key locations related to America’s independence from Britain such as Fort Moultrie and White Point Garden. The South Carolina Aquarium Tour is another great tour for those looking to learn about local wildlife and ecosystems.

Book an Old South Carriage Tour

Old South Carriage Tour offers visitors a unique way to explore Charleston’s history with a guided tour by horse-drawn carriage that takes you through some of the city’s most iconic locations such as Rainbow Row and Waterfront Park. During this tour, you’ll have the chance to learn about Charleston’s past while admiring some of its oldest buildings, cobblestone streets, and other historic landmarks.

Book a Charleston Harbor Cruise

A great way to experience Charleston’s beauty is by taking a cruise around Charleston Harbor. The Charleston Harbor Cruise offers visitors an up-close look at some of Charleston’s most beautiful sites including Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney as well as plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing while sailing around this historic harbor. During this two-hour tour, you’ll learn about Charleston’s history while taking in stunning views of iconic landmarks such as The Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge and Patriot Point.

Conclusion

Charleston has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an immersive exploration into history or just want to relax on the beach or sample some delicious local cuisine, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your visit to this beautiful city. With so much to see and do in this vibrant city, there’s no shortage of experiences to be had while visiting Charleston.