Charleston SC Tourist Guide

Welcome to Charleston, South Carolina’s oldest cities and a place overflowing with history, culture, and entertainment. Located on the coast of South Carolina, this is a city that is steeped in colonial history and has a unique blend of old and new. From centuries-old cobblestone streets and antebellum mansions to modern attractions and a bustling nightlife, there is something for everyone here. Whether you are coming for the history, the culture, or just to enjoy the stunning waterside views, Charleston is sure to delight.

Charleston has been a key port city since the late 17th century. It was one of the main shipping ports in the early days of America, and the city was built on the wealth generated from the trading of cotton, tobacco, and indigo. It has a long and fascinating history, and it is well-known for its architecture and architecture styles, including the iconic Charleston single house.

Today, Charleston is a vibrant city with a population of over 137,000 people. It is home to many major companies, schools, and universities, and it is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore its history and culture. There are plenty of things to do here, from historic sites and museums to art galleries, theaters, and parks. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed city getaway, Charleston has it all.

Things to Do in Charleston

Charleston offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore. The city is full of iconic landmarks, grand mansions, and cobblestone streets. Here are some of the top things to do in Charleston:

Historic Sites

Charleston’s colonial history makes it a great place to explore the past. Visit the Old Exchange Building, which dates back to 1767 and is one of the oldest buildings in the city. Tour the Battery and White Point Gardens, which offer stunning views of the water and are where Charleston’s Revolutionary War defenses were located. The City Market is also worth a visit; it dates back to 1790 and is one of the oldest public markets in the country.

Museums

Charleston has some excellent museums that offer insight into the city’s past and present. The Charleston Museum is the oldest museum in the country and houses artifacts from colonial times. The Gibbes Museum of Art is home to an impressive collection of American art from the colonial period to the present day. Other popular museums include the Confederate Museum, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, and South Carolina Aquarium.

Beaches

Charleston is home to some of South Carolina’s most beautiful beaches. Folly Beach offers seven miles of white sand beaches and is great for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and fishing. Isle of Palms is also popular with surfers and beachgoers alike and features stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Sullivan’s Island is known for its laidback vibe, while Kiawah Island is a secluded paradise with plenty of wildlife and nature trails to explore.

Shopping & Dining

No trip to Charleston would be complete without exploring its many restaurants and shops. King Street is home to many boutique shops selling everything from clothing and accessories to artwork and antiques. For those who love seafood, be sure to check out the many seafood restaurants in town offering everything from fresh-caught oysters to Lowcountry boils. For an unforgettable meal, try out one of Charleston’s many fine dining establishments.

Popular Tours

In addition to all that Charleston has to offer in terms of attractions, there are also several popular tours that visitors can book in order to make the most of their visit. Here are two of the top tours:

Charleston Historic District Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

Take a journey back in time with a horse-drawn carriage tour of Charleston’s Historic District. This unique tour is led by experienced guides who will share stories about the city’s past as you explore some of its most iconic landmarks. The tour includes stops at the Old Exchange Building, the Market Hall, Rainbow Row, St. Michael’s Church, and more. Along the way you’ll get to experience the beauty of Charleston’s cobblestone streets and lush gardens. This tour lasts two hours and offers an unforgettable experience of Charleston’s history and culture. Book a Charleston Historic District Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour here.

Charleston Gullah Cultural Tour

Experience a unique side of Charleston on this Gullah Cultural Tour. This three-hour tour takes you to some of the most important sites in Charleston’s African-American history. You’ll visit churches, cemeteries, and other historic sites as you learn about the Gullah culture that has been passed down through generations. Along the way you’ll get to hear stories from local Gullah guides about life in their community as well as traditional Gullah recipes and folk tales. This tour will give you an intimate look into Charleston’s African-American history that you won’t find anywhere else. Book a Charleston Gullah Cultural Tour here.

Conclusion

Charleston is a city full of history, culture, and entertainment. From centuries-old cobblestone streets to modern attractions and a bustling nightlife, there is something for everyone here. Whether you are coming for the history or just for some fun in the sun, you won’t be disappointed in what this amazing city has to offer. Be sure to book one of these popular tours to get an even more intimate look into Charleston’s past and present.