Charleston, SC – Best Things to Do for First-Time Visitors

As one of the oldest cities in America, Charleston, SC is a great place to visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty and history of the American South. With its colonial-style architecture, quaint streets, and vibrant culture, Charleston is a must-see destination for first-time visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s historic sites, stroll along the waterfront, or attend one of its many festivals and events, there’s something for everyone in Charleston. Here’s a guide to the best things to do when you’re visiting this charming Southern city.

Explore Charleston’s Historic Sites

Charleston is home to a number of fascinating and historically significant sites. The first place to start is the Charleston City Market, one of the oldest public markets in the United States. Established in 1788, the market is full of food, crafts, and other items for sale, as well as street performers, making it a great place to explore for anyone looking for a unique shopping experience.

Next, make sure to visit the Aiken-Rhett House, one of the best-preserved antebellum homes in the country. The home, which dates back to 1820, is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the lives of Charleston’s wealthy citizens of the past.

Finally, no visit to Charleston would be complete without a stop at Fort Sumter, the site of the first battle of the Civil War. You can take a ferry to the fort, which offers great views of Charleston Harbor and the surrounding area, and explore the site, which includes a museum, a visitor center, and a number of other attractions.

Take a Stroll Along the Waterfront

One of the best ways to experience Charleston is to take a stroll along the waterfront, known as the Battery. This historic promenade is a great place to catch a sunset or simply admire the views of the harbor and nearby Bridge Street. The waterfront also features a number of monuments, including the Civil War Memorial, the Washington Light Infantry Monument, and the Angel Oak Tree.

Attend One of Charleston’s Festivals or Events

No matter when you visit, there’s sure to be something going on in Charleston. The city hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Charleston Food + Wine Festival in March, the Spoleto Festival USA in May and June, and the Lowcountry Oyster Festival in January. Additionally, there are a number of other events, such as the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition in February, the Charleston Beer Garden in June, and the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in December.

Visit the Beaches

No visit to Charleston would be complete without a trip to the beach. The city is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the scenery or want to get active with some water sports, there’s something for everyone.

Take a Tour of Charleston

If you want to get to know the city better, there are a number of guided tours available. Popular options include a carriage tour of the historic district, a walking tour of the city’s architectural highlights, and a boat tour of the harbor. For those looking for a more active experience, there are also bike tours, kayak tours, and even ghost tours.

Additional Tips for Visiting Charleston

When visiting Charleston, make sure to bring a jacket, as the city can get chilly in the winter months. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring cash, as some of the smaller shops may not accept credit cards. Finally, make sure to try out some of the city’s famous seafood, such as the Lowcountry Boil, the local oysters, and the shrimp and grits.

Conclusion

Charleston, SC is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and history of the American South. From exploring the city’s historic sites to taking a stroll along the waterfront, there’s something for everyone in Charleston. Whether you’re looking to attend a festival or take a tour of the city, you won’t be disappointed by this charming Southern city.

Insider’s Guide to Charleston, SC: Best Things to Do

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historical city with cobblestone streets, vibrant culture, and fragrant gardens. It is filled with stunning architectural wonders like rainbow-colored antebellum houses and charming churches. With its rich history, mesmerizing landscapes, and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this Southern jewel.

Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime resident, here’s every worth-seeing attraction, off-the-beaten-path suggestion, dining spot, cultural experience, and local history to explore in Charleston, SC.

Local Attractions

Charleston is known for its iconic tourist spots such as Rainbow Row, The Battery, and the Charleston City Market. But, if you want to explore the city through a local’s perspective, you’ll need to dig a bit deeper. Here are some lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path attractions Charlestonians swear by:

– The Angel Oak Tree: Located on John’s Island, this 400-year-old sprawling oak tree with branches that stretch over 66 feet wide and on average, stand about 70 feet high, is a breathtaking sight to behold.

– The Aiken-Rhett House Museum: This 19th-century house showcases a glimpse of the grandeur of the antebellum South. Stroll through the gleaming chandeliers, exquisite antiques, and jaw-dropping architecture.

– Congaree National Park: Kayak or canoe through a primitive swamp habitat while you marvel at the sheer beauty of Congaree National Park, located just outside Charleston.

Dining Spots

Charleston’s culinary scene is revered, and for good reason. It is a melting pot of cultures, and its cuisine features a mix of seafood, southern-style comfort food, and international flavors.

– Husk Restaurant: Award-winning Chef Sean Brock has put Charleston’s cuisine on the world map with Husk – an inventive yet traditional restaurant where ingredients are locally sourced.

– FIG Restaurant: The Fig Restaurant masterfully merges French and Italian cuisine with southern influences. FIG’s ambiance is sure to impress, with an ever-changing menu of seasonally-inspired dishes.

– Leon’s Oyster Shop: Enjoy some delicious seafood in a charming atmosphere with Leon’s Oyster Shop. Their famous char-grilled oysters and hush puppies are highly recommended.

Cultural Experiences

Charleston is a city rich in culture with a vibrant arts and music scene. From classical concerts to high-energy street performances, here are some cultural experiences to check out in Charleston:

– Spoleto Festival USA: Charleston’s cultural calendar is incomplete without the world-renowned Spoleto Festival. This 17-day event features a combination of theater, dance, music, and opera performances.

– The Gibbes Museum of Art: The Gibbes Museum is located in the heart of downtown Charleston and serves as the hub for the city’s arts. Explore the rich collections of artworks, especially Charleston’s compelling portraits.

– Fort Sumter National Historic Park: Take a guided tour of the famous Fort Sumter and explore the grounds of the initial battle of the Civil War.

Local History

Charleston has a rich history that’s fascinating and complex, filled with tragic events and inspiring people. Here are some places that bring to life the city’s vivid history:

– Magnolia Cemetery: This Cemetery is over 160 years old and its Gothic-Revival styled tombs and stunning monuments are popular attractions.

– The Old Slave Mart Museum: This site was one of the city’s major slave auction houses until the Civil War and now serves as a poignant reminder of America’s history with slavery.

– Boone Hall Plantation: Boone Hall is not merely a plantation, but a living and breathing memorial of Southern history. This iconic South Carolina landmark makes for an unforgettable experience.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Charleston is known for its beaches, museums, historic landmarks, and the beautiful parks that the city has to offer. Here are some unique suggestions to take your Charleston experience to the next level:

– Ghost Tours: Ghost tours are a must-do activity, and Haunted Charleston has some of the best in the city. Tour the spine-chilling alleys and hear stories from the city’s most haunted spots.

– Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride: A horse-drawn carriage ride through Charleston’s quaint streets is an experience you cannot forget. The tour covers some of the best historic sights that Charleston has to offer.

– Watching the sunrise at Folly beach: Relax and unwind at Folly Beach. Sunrise is the perfect time to witness some of the most beautiful views Charleston has to offer.

Now that you’re equipped with the local’s perspective on Charleston, SC, what are you waiting for? Come fall in love with this whimsical Southern city, immerse yourself in its charming ambiance, and explore all that it has to offer.