Must Do In Charleston Sc: A City Guide for Tourists

For centuries, Charleston has been a city of culture, beauty, and adventure. Located in South Carolina, the city is steeped in history, with a unique mix of old and new, making it the perfect destination for any traveler. From the cobblestone streets and stunning architecture, to the family-friendly attractions and world-class shopping, Charleston has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking to soak in the city’s history or explore its vibrant culture, here are the must-do activities in Charleston for tourists visiting for the first time.

History & Culture

Charleston’s rich history and culture can be experienced in many ways. From its cobblestone streets and stunning architecture to its vibrant music and art scene, Charleston is a city full of life.

Charleston City Market

For centuries, the Charleston City Market has been an iconic part of the city’s culture. This open-air market is home to an array of vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to local produce. Stroll through the stalls and take in all the sights, sounds and smells that make the Charleston City Market so unique.

Historic District Walking Tour

Experience Charleston’s history first hand with a historical walking tour of the city’s historic district. Explore the city’s cobblestone streets and take in the stunning colonial architecture of the area. Hear stories of the past from knowledgeable guides, and learn about the city’s unique colonial history.

Charleston Tea Plantation

The Charleston Tea Plantation is the oldest and only tea plantation in America. Take a tour of the facility and learn about the process of growing and harvesting tea leaves. Sample some of their delicious tea at the end of your tour, and pick up some of their unique blends to take home with you.

South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for any visitor to Charleston. Explore the marine life in their five exhibit galleries, which include a touch tank, aviary, and more. The aquarium also features a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the year.

Food & Drinks

Charleston is known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Restaurants, bars and cafes line the streets, serving up a variety of traditional dishes, seafood specialties and international cuisine.

Husk

One of the most popular restaurants in Charleston is Husk, located in downtown Charleston. This restaurant specializes in southern cuisine with a modern twist. Dine on delicious dishes like shrimp and grits or fried chicken with sweet potato mash.

The Grocery

The Grocery is a cozy restaurant located in downtown Charleston. The restaurant focuses on farm-to-table cuisine using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Sample dishes like smoked pork belly with truffle macaroni and cheese or roasted Brussels sprouts with dates and almonds.

Leon’s Oyster House

For seafood lovers, Leon’s Oyster House is a must-visit spot in Charleston. This casual restaurant offers up some of the freshest seafood in town. Enjoy classic dishes like shrimp and grits or fried oysters with collard greens.

The Amber

The Amber is a cozy bar located near King Street in Charleston. Sample craft beers, wines and cocktails while you listen to live music from local artists. Enjoy a game of pool or just relax with friends at this friendly bar.

Activities & Entertainment

From outdoor activities to shopping and nightlife, there’s plenty to keep you entertained in Charleston. Take advantage of the city’s beautiful weather by exploring its many parks and beaches or take a stroll along King Street for some retail therapy.

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is one of Charleston’s most popular parks. Located along the Cooper River, this park offers spectacular views of the city skyline as well as plenty of green space for picnics or just relaxing in the sun. Enjoy the park’s playgrounds, public art pieces and landscaped gardens.

Folly Beach

Folly Beach is one of Charleston’s most popular beaches with miles of white sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast. Enjoy relaxing on the beach or take part in activities like kayaking or fishing. The beach also features some great restaurants and bars for a night out on the town.

King Street Shopping

King Street is one of Charleston’s main shopping districts offering an array of retail stores from high-end boutiques to one-of-a-kind shops. Take a stroll along King Street to explore some of the best shopping in town or grab a bite to eat at one of its many restaurants.

Charleston Music Hall

The Charleston Music Hall is one of the city’s best venues for live music and entertainment. Enjoy concerts from local and international acts or catch a movie at this historic venue. Check their website for upcoming events and shows.

Popular Tours

If you’re looking for an even more immersive experience, there are plenty of popular tours to choose from in Charleston. From historical walking tours to boat cruises, these tours offer a great way to explore all that Charleston has to offer. Here are two popular tours that you can book online:

Historic City Tour

Take a guided tour of historic downtown Charleston with an expert guide who will show you all the best sights in town. This tour will take you past some of Charleston’s most iconic landmarks including Rainbow Row, White Point Garden and Waterfront Park. You can also visit some of the city’s museums such as The Charleston Museum or The Citadel Military College Museum during your tour. Book a Historic City Tour here.

Fort Sumter Boat Cruise

Discover Fort Sumter National Monument on an unforgettable boat cruise from downtown Charleston. Experience breathtaking views as you cruise past Sullivan’s Island and The Battery to reach Fort Sumter National Monument, where you can explore its 19th century military fortifications from a distance. You can also learn about the fort’s important role in American history from your knowledgeable guide during your tour.Book a Fort Sumter Boat Cruise here.

Conclusion

There’s no shortage of things to do when visiting Charleston for the first time – from exploring its historic sites to tasting its delicious cuisine, there’s something new to experience every day. Whether you’re looking for cultural enrichment or just want to relax on a beach, Charleston has something for everyone. With its unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, there’s no better place to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer than right here in Charleston!