What are the Must See Sites in Charleston, SC?

Charleston, South Carolina is vibrant and full of history. It’s no wonder why it’s been ranked as one of the best cities in the US. Whether you’re in town for a few days or for a few weeks, there are always amazing sights to see in the Holy City. Here, we’ve rounded up the top 10 must-see sites for your next visit to Charleston.

1. Fort Sumter and National Park – This National Park is built on an island off the coast of Charleston alongside the Charleston Harbor. As a visitor, you can tour the fort, view several interactive exhibits, and even attend a sunset tour as part of your experience. The public access tours are run by the National Park Service and tickets can be purchased on their website.

2. Boone Hall Plantation – Explore this historic working plantation, which was once owned by Major John Boone and has been operating since 1681. Take a guided tour of Boone Hall, which has appeared in several movies including The Notebook starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. You can also explore Boone Hall’s gardens, grounds, and purchase fresh vegetables from the roadside market when in season. Tickets for tours can be purchased online at their website.

3. City Market – Walk through this open-air market, located in the downtown Charleston area, to explore local art, food, and culture that has been part of the area for centuries. Every Saturday and Thursday the City Market comes alive with vendors selling clothing, jewelry and souvenirs, along with local craftsmen who are selling their handmade items. There are dozens of tasty food kiosks as well, so you can grab a bite to eat while you’re here.

4. Rainbow Row – This stunning row of colorful buildings is one of Charleston’s most recognizable landmarks. The 13 homes were painted pink, blue, pastel yellow, green and other pastels in the late 1920s and the name Rainbow Row is what locals know it as today.

5. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens – One of the oldest plantations in the South, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens has served as home to nine generations of the Drayton family since 1676. Spread across 350 acres and 16 miles of walking trails, you can explore ancient oak trees, stroll through formal gardens, take a boat ride on the Ashley River, or tour the main house for a glimpse into the lives of a prominent South Carolina family. Check out their website for information about entrance fees and hours of operation.

6. Waterfront Park – Inspired by designs from the Battery neighborhood in downtown Charleston, this is one of the newer attractions that has quickly become a favorite amongst visitors. This 12-acre park isn’t just an escape—it’s an adventure! There are interactive water features where children can play under jet sprays, misting swings, greenpace to play and lounge in, fountains and flowers. Directly across from this park is the USS Yorktown—a decommissioned aircraft carrier that is now open to visitors.

7. Charleston Tea Plantation – Tour America’s oldest tea plantation on Wadmalaw Island—just a 30 minute drive outside downtown Charleston—where you will learn all about tea production and even get the chance to sample some local varieties that are made there. Check out their website for more information about tickets and upcoming events.

8. H. L. Hunley Submarine Museum – This was once a real Confederate submarine from 1864 that has been preserved in its current location in North Charleston since 1975. During your visit to this Confederate relic museum, you will learn all about the history of the Hunley submarine ship and its crew. For more information about guided tours of this museum visit their official website.

9. The Ravenel Bridge – Completed in 2005, this cable-stayed bridge connects downtown Charleston with Mt. Pleasant along Highway 17 and is one of the longest bridges in the country at 8 lane miles long! Take a stroll across this beautiful bridge late at night or during sunset for an unbeatable view of Charleston from high above the Ashley River and Charleston Harbor.

10. Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge – This gorgeous pedestrian bridge is located alongside its namesake highway bridge and spans 2 ½ miles long for more incredible views of the harbor and river below! Follow the path along Cooper River and make sure to check out if any events are being held here when you’re in town—they’re often used to host festivals or fireworks during the summer months!

Whether you’re visiting Charleston for a short trip or an extended stay, there is no lack of amazing things to see during your time here. From historic buildings like Rainbow Row to interactive parks like Waterfront Park or boating down rivers like Cooper River—these ten must-see sites will give you an insider’s look into one of America’s most beautiful cities!