Things to See and Do in Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina is a charming coastal city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. It’s long been a popular tourist destination for those looking for a warm and welcoming vacation spot, and it’s easy to see why. From historic sites to beaches and parks, there’s something for everyone in Charleston.

Charleston was founded in 1670 and was initially known as Charles Town in honor of King Charles II of England. Throughout its history, Charleston has had a major role in American culture, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War. Today, the city is home to more than 130,000 people and is the largest city in the state of South Carolina.

The city is known for its white-columned mansions, cobblestone streets, and pastel-colored homes. It also has a vibrant music and art scene as well as a host of attractions, such as the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, Fort Sumter National Monument, and Middleton Place Plantation.

The city’s subtropical climate makes it a great destination for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. The city’s many parks also provide plenty of opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and biking.

If you’re looking to explore Charleston’s history, culture, and attractions, here are some of the best places to visit.

Historic Sites

Charleston has many sites of historical significance that are worth exploring. The most iconic is Fort Sumter National Monument, which was the first battle site of the Civil War. You can take a boat tour to the fort and take in the breathtaking views of Charleston Harbor. Also worth visiting is the USS Yorktown, a decommissioned aircraft carrier that was used in both World War II and the Vietnam War.

Charleston also has many antebellum homes that are open to the public, such as the Nathaniel Russell House and the Aiken-Rhett House. Each home has its own unique style and tells its own story about life in Charleston during the 19th century.

Beaches and Parks

Charleston is home to some beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply strolling along the shore. Folly Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Charleston and is known for its laid-back atmosphere. Other popular beaches in the area include Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms.

Charleston also has many parks that are perfect for enjoying the outdoors. The most popular is Hampton Park, which features a lake and plenty of trails for walking or biking. Other popular parks include White Point Garden, Waterfront Park, and James Island County Park.

Museums and Art Galleries

Charleston has several museums and art galleries that are worth exploring. The Gibbes Museum of Art showcases works from local artists as well as international ones, while The Charleston Museum is the oldest museum in the United States and features exhibits on South Carolina history. Other art galleries worth exploring include Redux Contemporary Art Center, Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, City Gallery at Waterfront Park, and The Calhoun Mansion.

Shopping and Dining

As a tourist destination, Charleston offers plenty of shopping and dining options. King Street is home to several boutiques where you can find unique clothing and accessories. For more traditional shopping experiences, you can visit one of the city’s many malls or markets such as City Market, Marion Square Farmers’ Market, or Charleston Flea Market.

When it comes to dining, Charleston is home to some of the best restaurants in the country. From traditional Southern fare to award-winning seafood restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Charleston. Some popular restaurants include Husk, Hominy Grill, The Grocery, and Poogan’s Porch.

Tours

If you want to get to know Charleston better, consider taking one of the many tours offered by local operators. One popular choice is the Old South Carriage Company’s Historic City Tour which takes you around downtown Charleston and introduces you to some of its most prominent landmarks. The two-hour tour includes stops at notable locations such as Rainbow Row and White Point Garden as well as historical facts about each site. You can book this tour here.

Another great way to get to know Charleston is by taking a boat tour through its harbor. The Schooner Pride Boat Tour offers a two-hour sailing tour that takes you past many of Charleston’s most famous landmarks such as Fort Sumter National Monument and Castle Pinckney Island. You can book this tour here.

Finally, if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, consider taking the Carolina Kayak Tour which takes you through some of Charleston’s beautiful rivers and marshes. The two-hour tour includes stops at sites such as Morris Island Lighthouse as well as wildlife sightings like dolphins and ospreys. You can book this tour here.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of things to see and do in Charleston, SC no matter what your interests are. From historic sites to beaches and parks to museums and art galleries, there’s something for everyone in this charming coastal city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, you’ll find it in Charleston!