What to do in Charleston, SC

Activities, attractions and tours

Charleston
Charleston
Charleston
Charleston
Charleston

Charleston Attractions

Charleston, the oldest city in the state of South Carolina, is a fun destination for everyone from those interested in the city's rich history, to people looking to enjoy some of Charleston's exciting attractions. It can be hard to pick which things to do in Charleston, or Chucktown, simply because of the variety of famous sites which call the city home.

There are, however, a few local spots that you'll not want to miss the next time you head to this charming, historic city.

One of the top tourist attractions in Charleston has to be Charleston tours of various historic homes. Many of these homes, like the must see Aiken-Rhett House, have been transformed into museums that transport visitors back to Charleston's lovely past. If you are interested in learning more about the industries that first put Charleston on the map, you'll want to take Charleston excursions to Drayton Hall, America's oldest plantation, or visit Middleton Place, a former rice plantation. Military history lovers will want to be sure to visit places like The Citadel and those who want to experience what it was like to live in Charleston as an early settler should stop by Charles Towne Landing.

There are many fine Charleston activities for families visiting the area as well. You could head to the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry so your children will have a hands on learning experience. Splash Zone Waterpark is the best place to stop for families with active children staying in Charleston. The South Carolina Aquarium is a great place to visit, if your little ones are interested in learning more about sea creatures. After a busy day of checking out Charleston's many sites, you can head to Charleston Waterfront Park for a relaxing picnic dinner or go to Marion Square to check out one of the area's fine dining establishments.

From the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, one of the sites that helped earn Charleston its nickname of Holy City, to the stunning Morris Island Lighthouse, there are endless delights to be found on your next visit to Charleston, SC.


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What to do in Charleston


Discover the most popular places to visit in Charleston

Explore areas of Charleston

Charleston Historic District showing heritage architecture

Charleston Historic District

Explore this National Historic Landmark District, boasting an unparalleled collection of 18th and 19th-century architecture, including Charleston "single houses." Nearby Ansonborough features fine Greek Revival houses and historic civic buildings.

Charleston Historic District
Edmonston-Alston House featuring a house

Downtown Charleston

Explore the National Historic Landmark District, boasting an unparalleled collection of 18th and 19th-century architecture, including Charleston "single houses." Discover fine Greek Revival homes in Ansonborough and historic civic buildings on Broad Street.

Downtown Charleston
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site showing heritage elements and a house

West Ashley

Boasting Citadel Mall and Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital, this area is connected by the West Ashley Greenway and features historic sites like Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Revitalization efforts attract art and design businesses.

West Ashley
Worth every minute of waiting! The Charleston Nasty Biscuit at Hominy Grill, complete with a mimosa and side of home fries, made for the best brunch I've possibly ever had.

Cannonborough Elliotborough

While visiting Cannonborough Elliotborough, you might make a stop by sights like Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum.

Cannonborough Elliotborough
Charleston

Harleston Village

If you're spending some time in Harleston Village, Marion Square and The Riviera Theater are top sights worth seeing.

Harleston Village
Waterfront Park showing a park, modern architecture and a marina

French Quarter

Historic district in downtown Charleston, the French Quarter boasts art galleries and notable sites like the Pink House Tavern and Dock Street Theatre. Enjoy diverse dining options and Charleston's Waterfront Park nearby.

French Quarter

 

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Day trip destinations from Charleston