Stuff To Do In Charleston, SC – A Comprehensive Guide

Charleston, South Carolina is a city steeped in history and culture. Founded in 1670 and the oldest city in South Carolina, Charleston has seen its share of moments in history. It was the site of the first shots of the Civil War, was an important port city throughout the colonial era, and has been a major cultural and economic hub for the South since its founding. Today, Charleston is a bustling city with plenty of things to do, from visiting historical sites to exploring its thriving art and food scenes. Whether you’re just visiting for a few days or planning to stay for a while, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your time in Charleston.

Getting Around Charleston

Charleston is quite easy to get around. The city offers a few different public transportation options for visitors, including bus, water taxi, and bike rental. The CARTA bus system is a good option if you want to explore the city without having to rent or drive a car. The CARTA buses run throughout the city and are relatively inexpensive. For a more scenic ride, you can take a water taxi along the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. This is an ideal way to get around if you’re visiting some of the waterfront attractions in the city. Bike rental is also a great way to get around, as the city has designated bike lanes throughout.

Historic Sites & Attractions

Charleston is full of history and culture, and there are plenty of sites and attractions to explore. The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon is one of the most popular sites in the city, as it was once home to the first post office and prison in the United States. You can also explore some of the architecture from Charleston’s colonial past with a visit to White Point Garden, which is home to historic buildings like the Old Powder Magazine and the Calhoun Mansion. Other places of interest include the Heyward-Washington House, the French Huguenot Church, and Fort Sumter.

Food & Drink

Charleston is known for its vibrant food and drink scene. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the South, ranging from upscale eateries to casual seafood shacks. Some of the most popular restaurants in the city include Husk, a former James Beard Award-winning restaurant serving modern Southern fare; The Ordinary, an upscale seafood-focused restaurant; and FIG, where you can enjoy farm-to-table fare with a view of Charleston Harbor. There are also plenty of great spots for drinks, from rooftop bars to craft beer pubs.

Arts & Culture

Charleston is home to many art galleries and museums, as well as performance venues for theater and music. The Gibbes Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of American artwork from the 18th century to the present day, while The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art features works from emerging artists. Other popular museums include the Charleston Museum and the Confederate Museum. There are also plenty of theater companies and music venues in town, such as the Dock Street Theatre, which hosts both plays and musical performances.

Shopping & Markets

Charleston is home to some great shopping opportunities, from boutique stores to local markets. King Street is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the city, featuring stores like Hampden Clothing and Croghan’s Jewel Box. You can also find unique handmade goods at the City Market, which has been a fixture in Charleston since colonial days. For a more casual shopping experience, head to one of Charleston’s many farmers’ markets or public markets, where you can pick up fresh produce and locally made products.

Outdoor Activities

Charleston also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. One of the most popular spots in town is Waterfront Park, which has walking trails and beautiful views of Charleston Harbor. You can also explore some of Charleston’s natural beauty by visiting one of its many beaches or by taking a boat tour around the harbor. If you’d like to get out on the water yourself, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards at James Island County Park or take a fishing charter boat out for an excursion on the Atlantic Ocean.

Tour #1: Classic Tour Of Historic Charleston

If you’re looking for an introduction to Charleston’s history, this Classic Tour of Historic Charleston is an ideal way to experience it. You’ll be taken on a walking tour through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods, including White Point Garden and Rainbow Row. You’ll learn about Charleston’s past and present through stories told by experienced tour guides. This tour includes stops at some of Charleston’s oldest churches and homes, as well as a visit to Fort Sumter National Monument where you’ll learn about its crucial role in American history.

Book a Classic Tour Of Historic Charleston here.

Tour #2: Culinary Tour Of Charleston

If you’re looking to experience some of Charleston’s delicious cuisine on your trip, then this Culinary Tour of Charleston is for you. This tour will take you on a three-hour journey through some of Charleston’s best restaurants and bars. You’ll get to sample some of the city’s signature dishes and drinks while learning about its culinary traditions from experienced guides. This tour includes stops at local favorites like Husk, The Ordinary, FIG Restaurant, Tavern & Table, and more. You’ll also get to visit some local food markets and enjoy tastings from some of Charleston’s best chefs.

Book a Culinary Tour Of Charleston here.

Tour #3: Plantation Tour Of Charleston

If you’re interested in exploring some of Charleston’s plantations on your trip, then this Plantation Tour is for you. This tour takes you on an eight-hour journey through some of South Carolina’s most historic plantations, including Middleton Place Plantation, Boone Hall Plantation, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and Drayton Hall Plantation. You’ll learn about these plantations’ roles in American history while exploring their beautiful grounds and gardens. You’ll also be able to sample some local cuisine at Boone Hall Plantation before heading back to downtown Charleston at the end of your tour.

Book a Plantation Tour Of Charleston here.

Conclusion

Charleston is full of things to do for visitors, from exploring its historic sites to enjoying its vibrant food and drink culture. Whether you’re just visiting for a few days or planning to stay for a while, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most out of your time in this charming Southern city. From exploring its colonial past on guided tours to experiencing its local cuisine on culinary tours, there are plenty of ways to experience all that Charleston has to offer.