Top 25 Things To Do in Charleston

As you stroll down the gas lamp-lit streets of Charleston, the gentle clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages echoes off weathered brick walls. The air is thick with the heady scent of jasmine and the savory aroma of shrimp and grits wafting from nearby restaurants. This is Charleston, South Carolina – a city where history isn't confined to museums but lives and breathes in every corner.

Known affectionately as the Holy City, Charleston's skyline is punctuated by church steeples rather than skyscrapers. But don't let its old-world charm fool you. While Charleston reveres its past, it's also a city firmly rooted in the present, with a thriving culinary scene, vibrant arts community, and a knack for blending traditional Southern hospitality with modern sophistication.

From exploring antebellum mansions to lounging on sun-drenched beaches, from savoring Lowcountry cuisine to uncovering hidden courtyards, Charleston offers a smorgasbord of experiences that will captivate first-time visitors and long-time devotees alike. So, grab a sweet tea, and let's dive into the 25 best things to do in this jewel of the South.

Wander Through the Historic Charleston City Market

Step into the heart of Charleston's commercial history at the iconic City Market. This sprawling complex of open-air buildings stretches for four city blocks, offering a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and smells. As you meander through the market, you'll encounter everything from local artisans weaving intricate sweetgrass baskets (a centuries-old Gullah tradition) to vendors selling aromatic spices and savory benne wafers. The market is not just a shopping destination; it's a living museum of Charleston's cultural heritage.

• Location: 188 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Daily 9:30 AM - 6 PM (Night Market Fri-Sat 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It's the cultural and commercial pulse of Charleston, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant present.

Insider Tip: Visit during the evening Night Market to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and catch local musicians performing.

Explore Fort Sumter National Monument

Sail across Charleston Harbor to the site where the American Civil War began. Fort Sumter, a sea fort built on a man-made island, stands as a testament to one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history. As you walk the grounds where Confederate forces fired the first shots of the Civil War, you'll gain a tangible connection to the past. The fort's museum houses artifacts from the battle, including the original flag that flew over the fort during the bombardment.

• Location: Charleston Harbor (accessible only by boat)
• Hours: Daily ferry departures at 9:30 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:30 PM
• Admission: Adults $30, Children (4-11) $18

Why Visit: It's an unparalleled opportunity to stand on the grounds where American history was shaped.

Insider Tip: Book your ferry tickets in advance and arrive early to secure a spot on the top deck for the best views of Charleston's skyline during the ride.

Stroll Along The Battery and White Point Garden

Take a leisurely walk along The Battery, Charleston's iconic seawall and promenade. This picturesque stretch offers stunning views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor on one side, and stately antebellum homes on the other. As you amble along, you'll reach White Point Garden, a verdant oasis dotted with old oak trees and historic cannons and statues. It's the perfect spot to pause, breathe in the salty air, and watch sailboats glide by on the sparkling waters of the harbor.

• Location: E. Battery Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers the quintessential Charleston experience, combining natural beauty, history, and architecture.

Insider Tip: Visit at sunrise for a magical view of the harbor and to beat the crowds and the heat.

Tour the Nathaniel Russell House Museum

Step back in time as you enter this meticulously restored 19th-century home. The Nathaniel Russell House is a National Historic Landmark and one of America's most important neoclassical dwellings. As you wander through the rooms, you'll marvel at the ornate architecture, period antiques, and the showstopping three-story floating staircase. The house offers a window into the lives of Charleston's elite in the early 1800s, as well as the enslaved people who worked there.

• Location: 51 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM - 5 PM, Sun 2 PM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $12, Children (6-16) $5

Why Visit: It's one of the finest examples of Federal-style architecture in the country and provides insight into Charleston's complex history.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the gardens behind the house, which have been restored to their 19th-century glory.

Indulge in a Food Tour

Savor the flavors of Charleston on a guided culinary adventure. Charleston's food scene is a delicious blend of Lowcountry traditions and innovative modern cuisine. On a food tour, you'll sample local delicacies like she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, and Charleston chewies while learning about the city's culinary history. From historic taverns to trendy eateries, you'll taste your way through Charleston's gastronomic landscape.

• Location: Various locations in downtown Charleston
• Hours: Tours typically run daily, times vary
• Price: Tours start at $65 per person

Why Visit: It's the best way to experience Charleston's renowned culinary scene and learn about the city's food history.

Insider Tip: Come hungry and pace yourself - there's a lot of food to try!

Relax on Folly Beach

Escape the urban bustle and sink your toes into the sand at Folly Beach. Known locally as "the Edge of America," this laid-back beach town is just a short drive from downtown Charleston. Spend the day sunbathing, surfing (it's one of the best spots on the East Coast for catching waves), or fishing off the Folly Beach Pier. As the day winds down, grab a drink at one of the beachfront bars and watch the sun dip below the horizon.

• Location: Folly Beach, SC 29439
• Hours: Beach access 24/7
• Admission: Free (parking fees may apply)

Why Visit: It offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation and seaside town charm, all within easy reach of Charleston.

Insider Tip: Visit the Morris Island Lighthouse, visible from the northeastern end of the beach, for a great photo op.

Marvel at the Angel Oak Tree

Stand in awe before one of the oldest living things east of the Mississippi. The Angel Oak Tree, estimated to be 400-500 years old, is a natural wonder that will take your breath away. Its massive, gnarled branches - some of which are larger than most tree trunks - spread out over 17,000 square feet, creating a canopy of dappled sunlight and shadow. It's a place of quiet contemplation and a powerful reminder of nature's endurance.

• Location: 3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island, SC 29455
• Hours: Mon-Sat 9 AM - 5 PM, Sun 1 PM - 5 PM
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It's a awe-inspiring natural wonder and a serene escape from the bustle of the city.

Insider Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy under the sprawling branches, but remember to respect the tree and follow all posted guidelines.

Visit the South Carolina Aquarium

Dive into the diverse aquatic ecosystems of South Carolina at this state-of-the-art aquarium. From the mountains to the sea, you'll encounter a wide array of marine life native to the region. The highlight is the two-story Great Ocean Tank, home to sea turtles, sharks, and colorful fish. Don't miss the Sea Turtle Care Center, where you can learn about the aquarium's conservation efforts and see recovering sea turtles.

• Location: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Daily 9 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $29.95, Children (3-12) $22.95

Why Visit: It offers an immersive look at South Carolina's aquatic habitats and supports important conservation work.

Insider Tip: Time your visit to catch one of the daily dive shows in the Great Ocean Tank for an up-close look at feeding time.

Explore Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Step into a world of antebellum grandeur at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Founded in 1676, it's the oldest public gardens in America, with stunning year-round blooms. Take a tour of the historic house, wander through the lush gardens, and learn about the plantation's complex history, including its role in slavery. Don't miss the Audubon Swamp Garden, a cypress and tupelo swamp teeming with wildlife.

• Location: 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414
• Hours: Daily 9 AM - 4:30 PM
• Admission: Adults $20, Children (6-12) $10

Why Visit: It offers a deep dive into Charleston's plantation history and boasts some of the most beautiful gardens in the South.

Insider Tip: Take the Nature Train tour for a comprehensive overview of the plantation's diverse landscapes.

Paddle Through Shem Creek

Get a different perspective on Charleston's waterways with a kayak or paddleboard excursion through Shem Creek. This picturesque creek in nearby Mount Pleasant is lined with seafood restaurants and bars, but it's also a haven for wildlife. As you paddle, keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the water and pelicans diving for fish. The creek opens up to Charleston Harbor, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the Ravenel Bridge.

• Location: Shem Creek Park, 99 Harry M. Hallman Jr Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
• Hours: Park open daily sunrise to sunset
• Price: Kayak rentals from $30 for 2 hours

Why Visit: It combines outdoor adventure with beautiful scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Insider Tip: Plan your paddle for early morning or late afternoon to catch the golden hour light and avoid the midday heat.

Discover History at the Charleston Museum

Delve into Charleston's rich past at America's first museum. Founded in 1773, the Charleston Museum houses an impressive collection of historical artifacts, from prehistoric fossils to Civil War relics. Highlights include the Egypt gallery, featuring an authentic mummy, and the Lowcountry History Hall, which traces the area's cultural and natural history. It's a treasure trove for history buffs and curious minds alike.

• Location: 360 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours: Mon-Sat 9 AM - 5 PM, Sun 12 PM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $12, Children (3-12) $5

Why Visit: It offers a comprehensive look at Charleston's history and culture, from prehistoric times to the present day.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the museum's two historic house museums, the Joseph Manigault House and the Heyward-Washington House, which are included in your admission.

Take a Ghost Tour

As night falls, uncover Charleston's spooky side on a ghost tour. With its long history and well-preserved architecture, Charleston is considered one of the most haunted cities in America. Join a guided walk through dimly lit streets and graveyards, listening to tales of pirates, prisoners, and star-crossed lovers. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these tours offer a unique and entertaining way to learn about Charleston's darker history.

• Location: Tours typically start in the historic downtown area
• Hours: Evening tours, times vary
• Price: Adult tickets start around $25

Why Visit: It's a fun and slightly spooky way to learn about Charleston's history after dark.

Insider Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket - evenings can be cool, even in summer.

Shop on King Street

Indulge in some retail therapy on Charleston's premier shopping street. King Street is divided into three distinct districts: Lower King for antiques, Middle King for fashion, and Upper King for design and dining. From high-end boutiques to local artisan shops, you'll find a diverse array of stores to explore. Don't forget to look up - the street is lined with beautiful historic buildings that are worth admiring.

• Location: King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Vary by store, typically 10 AM - 6 PM
• Price: Free to browse

Why Visit: It offers a blend of high-end shopping, local boutiques, and beautiful historic architecture.

Insider Tip: Visit on the second Sunday of the month when the street becomes pedestrian-only for Second Sunday, featuring street performers and outdoor dining.

Visit the Gibbes Museum of Art

Immerse yourself in the visual arts at the Gibbes Museum. Housing an extensive collection of American art with a focus on works with a connection to Charleston and the South, the Gibbes offers a unique perspective on the region's artistic heritage. From colonial portraits to contemporary installations, the museum's collection spans several centuries. The building itself, a Beaux Arts masterpiece, is a work of art in its own right.

• Location: 135 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Tue-Sat 10 AM - 5 PM, Sun 1 PM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $12, Children (6-12) $6

Why Visit: It provides a comprehensive look at Southern art and culture through the ages.

Insider Tip: Check the museum's calendar for special exhibitions and events, which often provide unique insights into specific aspects of Southern art and history.

Cruise Charleston Harbor

See Charleston from a different perspective on a harbor cruise. As you glide across the waters of Charleston Harbor, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the city skyline, Fort Sumter, and the iconic Ravenel Bridge. Many tours offer narration, providing fascinating insights into the city's maritime history and pointing out landmarks along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, which often play in the harbor's waters.

• Location: Charleston Harbor Tours depart from 10 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Multiple daily departures
• Price: Adults $30, Children (4-11) $20

Why Visit: It offers unparalleled views of Charleston's coastline and a relaxing way to learn about the city's history.

Insider Tip: Opt for a sunset cruise for spectacular photo opportunities as the sky changes color over the harbor.

Explore the Old Slave Mart Museum

Confront a difficult but crucial part of Charleston's history at the Old Slave Mart Museum. Located in a building that once housed an antebellum slave auction gallery, this museum offers a sobering look at the city's role in the domestic slave trade. Through artifacts, personal accounts, and informative exhibits, the museum tells the stories of the enslaved people who passed through this site and the impact of slavery on Charleston and the nation.

• Location: 6 Chalmers Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Mon-Sat 9 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $8, Children (5-17) $5

Why Visit: It provides an essential understanding of Charleston's complex history and the lives of enslaved African Americans.

Insider Tip: Take time to read the personal narratives throughout the museum - they offer powerful, firsthand accounts of the slave experience.

Picnic at Hampton Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown at Hampton Park, the largest park on the Charleston peninsula. This 60-acre green space offers a tranquil retreat with walking trails, a pond, and beautiful gardens. It's a favorite spot for locals to jog, bike, or simply relax on a sunny day. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.

• Location: 30 Mary Murray Drive, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours: Daily 7 AM - sunset
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers a peaceful green space away from the tourist crowds and a chance to mingle with locals.

Insider Tip: Visit in spring when the park's numerous azaleas are in full bloom, creating a stunning display of color.

Tour the Edmondston-Alston House

Step into the world of Charleston's 19th-century elite at the Edmondston-Alston House. This Greek Revival mansion, built in 1825 and later remodeled, offers a glimpse into antebellum life in Charleston. The house is notable for its well-preserved interiors and family heirlooms, as well as its prime location overlooking Charleston Harbor. It's said that General Beauregard watched the bombardment of Fort Sumter from the second-story piazza in 1861.

• Location: 21 East Battery, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Tue-Sat 10 AM - 4:30 PM, Sun 1 PM - 4:30 PM
• Admission: Adults $12, Children (6-13) $5

Why Visit: It offers an intimate look at Charleston's antebellum history and stunning views of the harbor.

Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a stroll along The Battery for a full immersion in Charleston's historic waterfront.

Visit the Charleston Tea Garden

Take a trip to nearby Wadmalaw Island to explore America's only tea plantation. The Charleston Tea Garden offers a fascinating look at how tea is grown, harvested, and processed. Take a factory tour to see how tea leaves become the beverage we know and love, then hop on a trolley tour of the tea fields. Don't forget to sample some of their locally grown teas in the gift shop.

• Location: 6617 Maybank Highway, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487
• Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM - 4 PM, Sun 12 PM - 4 PM
• Admission: Free factory tour, $14 for trolley tour

Why Visit: It's a unique opportunity to see tea production firsthand and enjoy the beautiful Lowcountry landscape.

Insider Tip: Try their special Charleston Breakfast blend, which is only available at the garden.

Explore the H.L. Hunley Submarine

Dive into maritime history with a visit to the H.L. Hunley, the world's first successful combat submarine. This Confederate vessel, which sank in 1864 after torpedoing a Union ship, was raised from the ocean floor in 2000 and is now preserved in a specially designed tank. The tour provides fascinating insights into Civil War naval technology and the ongoing conservation efforts.

• Location: Warren Lasch Conservation Center, 1250 Supply Street, North Charleston, SC 29405
• Hours: Sat-Sun 10 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $16, Children (5-17) $8

Why Visit: It offers a unique look at Civil War naval history and cutting-edge marine archaeology.

Insider Tip: The submarine is housed in a working laboratory, so you might see conservators at work during your visit.

Attend a Show at the Charleston Gaillard Center

Immerse yourself in Charleston's performing arts scene at the Charleston Gaillard Center. This world-class venue hosts a diverse array of performances, from classical music and ballet to contemporary concerts and Broadway shows. The building itself is a marvel of neoclassical architecture, beautifully restored to its former glory.

• Location: 95 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Box office Mon-Fri 11 AM - 6 PM, performance times vary
• Price: Varies by performance

Why Visit: It's the premier venue for performing arts in Charleston, offering world-class entertainment in a stunning setting.

Insider Tip: Check their calendar for free community events and educational programs.

Visit Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site

Travel back in time to the birthplace of the Carolina colony at Charles Towne Landing. This 664-acre park preserves the site where English settlers first landed in 1670. Explore the replica 17th-century trading ship, walk through the experimental crop garden, and keep an eye out for wildlife in the natural habitat zoo. The park offers a perfect blend of history and nature.

• Location: 1500 Old Towne Road, Charleston, SC 29407
• Hours: Daily 9 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $12, Children (6-15) $7

Why Visit: It provides a hands-on look at colonial history and a beautiful natural setting for outdoor activities.

Insider Tip: Rent a bike to explore the park's extensive trail system, which offers beautiful views of the marsh and forest.

Take a Brewery Tour

Quench your thirst and satisfy your curiosity on a tour of Charleston's burgeoning craft beer scene. The city has seen a boom in microbreweries in recent years, each offering unique flavors and styles. A brewery tour will take you behind the scenes to learn about the brewing process, meet the brewers, and of course, sample a variety of local beers.

• Location: Various breweries around Charleston
• Hours: Tours typically run in the afternoon and evening
• Price: Tours start around $60 per person

Why Visit: It's a fun way to experience Charleston's craft beer culture and meet fellow beer enthusiasts.

Insider Tip: Don't miss Westbrook Brewing Co., known for their innovative flavors and their popular White Thai witbier.

Visit the Aiken-Rhett House Museum

Step into a time capsule of antebellum Charleston at the Aiken-Rhett House Museum. Unlike many historic homes, the Aiken-Rhett House has been preserved rather than restored, offering a rare and authentic glimpse into 19th-century life. The audio tour takes you through the main house, slave quarters, stables, and kitchen, providing a comprehensive look at life for both the wealthy inhabitants and the enslaved people who lived and worked here.

• Location: 48 Elizabeth Street, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM - 5 PM, Sun 2 PM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $12, Children (6-16) $5

Why Visit: It offers an unvarnished look at antebellum life and architecture, including rarely preserved urban slave quarters.

Insider Tip: The audio tour is excellent and included in your admission - don't skip it!

Relax at Waterfront Park

Unwind at one of Charleston's most beloved public spaces, Waterfront Park. This eight-acre park along the Cooper River offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor, plenty of benches for relaxing, and grassy areas perfect for picnicking. The park's most iconic feature is the Pineapple Fountain, a whimsical water feature that's become a symbol of Charleston's famous hospitality.

• Location: 1 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It's a beautiful spot to relax, enjoy harbor views, and cool off on a hot day.

Insider Tip: On summer evenings, join locals in dipping your feet in the Pineapple Fountain - it's allowed and encouraged!

Take a Culinary Class at Zero George

Elevate your culinary skills with a cooking class at the prestigious Zero George hotel. Led by expert chefs, these classes focus on Lowcountry cuisine and seasonal ingredients. You'll learn to prepare classic Charleston dishes with a modern twist, all while sipping on carefully paired wines. The classes take place in a restored 1804 carriage house, adding a touch of historic charm to your culinary adventure.

• Location: 0 George Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Classes typically run in the evening, schedule varies
• Price: Classes start at $150 per person

Why Visit: It's an immersive way to experience Charleston's renowned culinary scene and take home some new cooking skills.

Insider Tip: Book well in advance - these popular classes fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

Structuring Your Charleston Adventure: A 7-Day Itinerary

Now that we've explored the best things to do in Charleston, let's put it all together into a week-long itinerary. This plan is designed to give you a comprehensive Charleston experience, balancing history, culture, food, and outdoor activities. Remember, this is just a suggestion - feel free to adjust based on your interests and energy levels!

Day 1-2: Historic Charleston Immersion

• Start with a walking tour of the Historic District to orient yourself
• Visit the Charleston Museum for an overview of the city's history
• Explore the Charleston City Market
• Tour the Nathaniel Russell House
• Take an evening ghost tour

Day 3: Harbor and Fort Sumter

• Take a morning harbor cruise
• Visit Fort Sumter National Monument
• Afternoon at the South Carolina Aquarium
• Evening stroll along The Battery and dinner in the Historic District

Day 4: Plantation Day

• Spend the day at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
• Evening cooking class at Zero George

Day 5: Beach Day

• Day trip to Folly Beach
• Sunset sail in Charleston Harbor

Day 6: Arts and Culture

• Morning at the Gibbes Museum of Art
• Afternoon shopping on King Street
• Evening performance at the Charleston Gaillard Center

Day 7: Lowcountry Adventures

• Morning kayaking on Shem Creek
• Afternoon visit to the Charleston Tea Garden
• Farewell dinner at a top Lowcountry cuisine restaurant

This itinerary covers many of Charleston's highlights, but remember, part of the joy of visiting Charleston is stumbling upon hidden courtyards, charming cafes, and unexpected views. Don't be afraid to wander and discover your own favorite spots in this enchanting city.

Why Visit Charleston?

Charleston is a city that reveals itself slowly, layer by layer. From its cobblestone streets to its salt-tinged breezes, from its antebellum mansions to its innovative restaurants, Charleston offers a sensory feast that will linger in your memory long after you've returned home. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone in search of Southern charm, Charleston has something to offer. So pack your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and prepare to fall in love with the Holy City. Y'all come back now, you hear?