Non Touristy Things To Do In Charleston SC

Are you planning a trip to Charleston, South Carolina? Then you have come to the right place! Charleston is a city that is known for its history, culture, and charm. It is also a great place to experience all the best non-touristy things the city has to offer.

Visiting the Historic Sites

Charleston is a city steeped in history and one of the best ways to explore that history is to visit the city’s historic sites. There are a number of places to explore such as the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, where you can learn about the city’s roots and its involvement in the American Revolution. Other sites include the Charleston Museum, the USS Yorktown, and the South Carolina Aquarium. Each of these sites offers a unique view into the history of the city and its people.

Exploring the Local Neighborhoods

Charleston is home to a number of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Exploring these neighborhoods is a great way to get a feel for the city and its people. Take a walk down King Street, the city’s main shopping district, and experience the local shops and eateries. Stop by the historic French Quarter to explore the cobblestone streets and admire the 18th century architecture. Or take a stroll down the Battery, where you can take in views of the harbor and explore the Civil War-era Fort Sumter.

Enjoying the Local Cuisine

Charleston is known for its amazing food, from traditional Southern-style barbecue to Lowcountry seafood. Visit one of the city’s many restaurants to try local favorites like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and Hoppin’ John. To experience the city’s signature dish, head to Husk Restaurant for their famous shrimp and grits. Or, for a taste of traditional Lowcountry cuisine, visit Poogan’s Porch for their delicious fried green tomatoes.

Exploring the Beaches and Parks

Charleston is home to a number of beautiful beaches and parks. For a day in the sun, head to Folly Beach to relax on the sand and take in the views. Or, visit Charleston’s numerous parks, such as Hampton Park and White Point Garden. Here, you can take in views of the harbor and explore the park’s many walking paths and gardens.

Attending Local Events and Festivals

Charleston is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year. Each month, the city hosts a variety of events, such as the Southeastern Wildlife Expo, the Charleston Wine and Food Festival, and the Cooper River Bridge Run. Be sure to check the city’s official events calendar for a list of upcoming events and festivals.

Taking a Boat Tour

Charleston is home to a number of boat tours, from historic tours of the harbor to sunset cruises. One of the best ways to explore the city is to take a boat tour of the harbor and learn about the city’s history and culture. There are a number of boat tours to choose from, such as SpiritLine Cruises and Charleston Harbor Tours.

Visiting the Local Museums

Charleston is home to a number of unique museums, from the Charleston Museum to the Old Slave Mart Museum. Visit the Charleston Museum to explore the city’s history, or visit the Old Slave Mart Museum to learn about the history of slavery in Charleston. Other museums to explore include the South Carolina Historical Society and the Gibbes Museum of Art.

Conclusion

Charleston is an amazing city to explore, with a unique history and culture. There are a number of unique activities to explore and experience, from visiting historic sites to exploring the local neighborhoods, enjoying the local cuisine, attending local events and festivals, taking a boat tour, and visiting the local museums. So, if you’re looking for a great non-touristy thing to do in Charleston, you’re sure to find something to love.

An Insider’s Guide to Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city known for its charm, history, and picturesque landmarks. However, as a local with insider knowledge, I can assure you there are plenty of non-touristy things to see and do. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the hidden treasures, local cuisines, cultural experiences, historical anecdotes, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Charleston.

Local Attractions

While most tourists flock to the Battery, the iconic Charleston City Market, and the Rainbow Row, there are plenty of lesser-known attractions that deserve your attention. One such place is the Old City Jail, where notorious and infamous criminals used to be held. You can take a guided tour of the prison cells, hear ghost stories, and learn about the prison’s intriguing past. Another place to add to your itinerary is the Charleston Tea Plantation, which produces America’s only tea. Take a trolley tour of the plantation’s grounds, sip on freshly brewed tea, and learn the manufacturing process.

Dining Spots

Charleston has no shortage of excellent restaurants, but for an authentic dining experience, explore the local cuisine. Head to Martha Lou’s Kitchen, a no-frills restaurant serving up some of the best classic Southern dishes like fried chicken, okra, and cornbread. For some seafood, check out Bowens Island Restaurant, a rustic and informal spot known for its oysters and stunning sunset views. And of course, don’t forget to try Charleston’s famous sweet tea, which is sold in virtually every local restaurant.

Cultural Experiences

Charleston is a city filled with rich culture and traditions, and it’s all on display for tourists to explore. The annual Piccolo Spoleto Festival, a celebrated cultural event, features local and international artists who put on performances in various genres, including music, theatre, dance, and visual arts. The Dock Street Theatre, built-in 1736, is worth a visit too. It is America’s first theater dedicated solely to stage plays and is still in use today.

Local History

Charleston has a storied and complicated history, and understanding the city’s past is essential to appreciating its present. The Nathanial Russell House, built-in 1808, is a National Historic Landmark that offers tours of the interior, showcasing exquisite furnishings and decorations. You can also visit the oldest museum in America, the Charleston Museum, which houses a significant collection of artifacts, including prehistoric fossils and Civil War relics. The last place is the Battery, Charleston’s harbor defense, where you can experience a stunning vista of Fort Sumter and the Charleston Harbor.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something exhilarating and different, consider renting kayaks from Shem Creek, a tidal creek with incredible wildlife and stunning views. For an unusual place, head to the Angel Oak Tree, located on Johns Island. The enormous oak tree is over 400 years old, 66 feet tall, and has a 28-foot circumference. Lastly, take a stroll through Magnolia Cemetery, where you can find many historic graves and tombs while walking amid beautiful gardens and peaceful surroundings.

In Conclusion, Charleston has so much to offer beyond the common tourist spots, and this Insider’s Guide is here to help you explore it. From the hidden gems to the off-the-beaten-path suggestions, there’s something for everyone here to make your visit unforgettable. With this guide, you’re sure to experience the best of Charleston, SC, like a true local.