A Comprehensive Guide to Things To See And Do In Charleston, SC

Located in the heart of the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Founded in 1670, this beautiful city is renowned for its rich history and captivating culture. From its iconic cobblestone streets to its well-preserved colonial architecture, Charleston boasts an incredible array of attractions that visitors from around the world come to experience. From unique museums to charming neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone in this historic Southern city.

A Brief History of Charleston

Charleston was founded in 1670 as Charles Towne, named after King Charles II of England. The city quickly became a major port, due to its strategic location at the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper rivers. In 1773, Charleston was incorporated as a city and grew rapidly as a major trading center. During the American Revolution, the city was heavily fortified. From 1820 to 1860, Charleston was one of the wealthiest cities in the United States and was home to many prominent politicians and writers. The city also served as a major center for the slave trade, with more than 40% of all American slaves being sold through Charleston’s markets. After the Civil War, the city experienced a period of economic decline, but began to rebound in the early 20th century. Today, Charleston is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States and is known for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture.

Things To Do In Charleston

Charleston is known for its many attractions, from its iconic waterfront parks to its charming cobblestone streets. There’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Here are just a few of the many things to do in Charleston:

Take A Stroll Through The Historic District

The Historic District of Charleston is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Here, visitors can explore a variety of historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and landmarks. The district is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the country, including St. Philip’s Church, built in 1723, and Rainbow Row, built in 1720. Visitors can also explore some of Charleston’s most iconic neighborhoods, such as Ansonborough and French Quarter.

Explore The Waterfront Parks

Charleston is home to some of the most beautiful waterfront parks in the country. White Point Garden, built in 1680, is an iconic park located on the peninsula overlooking Charleston Harbor. Waterfront Park is another popular destination, offering sweeping views of the harbor, plus gardens, playgrounds, walking paths and more. Visitors can also explore Liberty Square, where they can take a stroll through historical monuments and statues.

Dine At Some Of The City’s Best Restaurants

Charleston has long been known for its exquisite cuisine. From classic Lowcountry dishes to modern creations from some of the top chefs in the world, there is something for everyone here. Some of the city’s best restaurants include Husk Restaurant, which specializes in Southern cuisine; FIG Restaurant, which serves up creative New American dishes; and The Ordinary, which offers seafood specialties.

Tour The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is one of the most popular attractions in Charleston. This stunning estate dates back to 1676 and is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the world. Visitors can explore a variety of gardens, including the Camellia Garden and Live Oak Avenue Garden. The plantation also features a variety of historic buildings, including a manor house and a chapel.

Shop In The Historic Market

Charleston’s Historic Market is one of the city’s most popular attractions. This public market houses over 80 vendors selling everything from locally-made crafts to antiques and jewelry. Visitors can also explore a variety of restaurants and cafes located within the market.

Popular Tours In Charleston

In addition to exploring many of Charleston’s attractions on your own, there are also a variety of guided tours available that will give you a deeper understanding of this vibrant city. Here are two popular tours in Charleston:

Historic Downtown Walking Tour

A great way to get an overview of Charleston’s history and culture is by taking a guided walking tour through downtown. This tour will take you past some of Charleston’s most iconic buildings and sites, such as St. Philip’s Church, Rainbow Row, City Hall, and Washington Square Park. You will also learn about Charleston’s fascinating history from your knowledgeable guide. You can book a historic downtown walking tour on Viator which offers a range of tours that cater to different interests and budgets.

Gullah Culture Tour

The Gullah Culture Tour is another popular tour in Charleston that will give visitors a deeper understanding of this unique culture. This tour will take you through some of Charleston’s historic Gullah neighborhoods and give you an opportunity to learn more about this unique culture. You will learn about Gullah music and art, as well as traditional Gullah cooking techniques. You can book a Gullah Culture Tour on GetYourGuide which provides an informative and immersive experience for all visitors looking to delve deeper into this fascinating culture.

Final Thoughts

Charleston is truly one of America’s gems – a beautiful Southern city with a long history and captivating culture that draws visitors from around the world every year. Whether you’re looking for an immersive cultural experience or just a relaxing getaway, you won’t be disappointed by what Charleston has to offer. With its iconic waterfront parks, charming cobblestone streets and fascinating history, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.