Welcome to Charleston, South Carolina – A City of Charm and History

Charleston, South Carolina is a city full of charm and history. With its cobblestone streets, sprawling oak trees, and stately antebellum homes, it’s no wonder Charleston attracts thousands of visitors each year. From its colonial beginning in 1670, to its time as the epicenter of the Civil War, to its modern-day status as an eclectic and exciting city, Charleston has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, history, or cultural attractions, there’s something to explore during a visit to Charleston. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to go in Charleston, South Carolina.

History of Charleston

Charleston was originally founded in 1670 as Charles Towne, named after King Charles II of England. It was one of the first British settlements in North America, and quickly grew into a prosperous port city. By 1730, Charleston had become the fourth largest city in the colonies and served as an important trading hub for the southern colonies. During the Revolutionary War, the British invaded Charleston and occupied it for nearly three years. After the war, the city recovered quickly and continued to thrive.

By the time of the Civil War, Charleston was one of the most prosperous cities in the South. The city was an important port for both the Confederacy and Union forces, and was the site of several battles, including the famous Battle of Fort Sumter. After the war, Charleston was slow to rebuild, but eventually recovered and became an important center of business and industry. Today, it is a vibrant city full of culture and charm.

Things To Do in Charleston

Charleston is a city filled with things to see and do. Here are some of the best places to go in Charleston:

Historic Districts

The Historic Districts of Charleston are one of the city’s main attractions. The French Quarter, the Old City Market and Ansonborough are all located in this area and are filled with cobblestone streets and historic buildings from the 1700s and 1800s. A walk through these districts will take you back in time to a bygone era.

The French Quarter is one of the most popular historic districts in Charleston. It is known for its colorful homes and buildings, and is home to some of the oldest restaurants in the country. Enjoy a stroll down cobblestone streets, admire the colorful homes and buildings, or take a tour of some of the historic sites.

The Old City Market is another popular historical district in Charleston that dates back to 1804. The market is filled with vendors selling souvenirs, crafts, snacks and more. It is also home to some of Charleston’s oldest restaurants such as Poogan’s Porch and Jestine’s Kitchen.

Ansonborough is another historic district in Charleston with cobblestone streets and buildings from the 1700s and 1800s. This area is home to some of Charleston’s oldest homes and churches. Take a stroll through Ansonborough and see some of Charleston’s oldest homes and churches such as St. Michael’s Church and the Miles Brewton House.

Outdoor Adventures

Charleston has plenty of outdoor adventure for those looking for some fun in the sun. Take a trip to Folly Beach to lay on the sand, enjoy some water sports or take a walk along the pier. You can also explore some of Charleston’s parks such as White Point Gardens or Hampton Park.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, take a kayak tour along the Ashley River or take a boat tour to Shem Creek to see some dolphins. For those looking for more adrenaline-pumping activities, try parasailing or jet skiing off of Folly Beach or take a paddleboard tour through some of Charleston’s marshes and creeks.

Historical Sites

Charleston is rich in history, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of historical sites to explore here. Take a tour of Fort Sumter National Monument where the first shots of the Civil War were fired or explore Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum where you can see naval vessels from different eras. You can also visit Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens for a glimpse into the life of antebellum plantation owners or visit Drayton Hall for a glimpse into colonial life.

If you want to learn more about Charleston’s role in American history, take a tour of Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon where prisoners were held during the Revolutionary War or visit Old Slave Mart Museum to learn about slavery in Charleston during the 19th century.

Cultural Attractions

Charleston is home to some amazing cultural attractions that are worth exploring. Check out Gibbes Museum of Art for a look at some amazing works of art from around the world or visit The City Gallery at Waterfront Park for some stunning views of Charleston’s harbor.

For a unique experience, take a walking tour of Rainbow Row or stop by Middleton Place to explore one of America’s oldest landscaped gardens. You can also visit South Carolina Aquarium where you can learn about marine life from around the world or take a tour of the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier Museum for a look at some historic aircrafts.

Popular Tours

If you’re looking for an easy way to explore all that Charleston has to offer, why not take one of these popular tours?

Historical Tour of Charleston

Explore the history of Charleston on this popular walking tour. This tour will take you through Charleston’s historic districts such as French Quarter, Old City Market, Ansonborough and more. You’ll learn about some of the oldest homes and churches in Charleston as well as its role in American history such as Fort Sumter National Monument and Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon. You’ll also get a chance to explore some hidden gems such as Rainbow Row and Middleton Place as well as get a glimpse into colonial life at Drayton Hall. Book a Historical Tour of Charleston here.

Gullah Culture Tour

Learn about Gullah culture on this tour through downtown Charleston. This tour will take you on a journey through Gullah neighborhoods such as Cannonboro Village and Old Village Mount Pleasant. You’ll learn all about Gullah culture such as its language, food, music and art as well as get a chance to explore some hidden gems such as Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor which is home to many historical sites related to Gullah culture. Book a Gullah Culture Tour here.

Nature & Wildlife Tour

Experience nature and wildlife up close on this tour throughCharleston’s marshes and creeks. This tour will take you kayaking along Ashley River or Shem Creek where you can spot dolphins, birds and other marine wildlife. You’ll get a chance to explore some stunning views such as Middleton Place Plantation and Hampton Park as well as get close up views of plantations such as Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens or High Hampton Plantation & Gardens. Book a Nature & Wildlife Tour here.

At the end of your trip to Charleston, you’ll be sure to have created many memories that will last a lifetime! With its amazing diversity of cultural attractions, historic sites, outdoor adventures, and charming atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city!