Unforgettable 4 Days in Charleston SC Itinerary: Featuring Folly Beach & Fort Sumter

Are you looking for a perfect Charleston itinerary? Your search ends here! Here is a complete guide on how you can spend 4 days in Charleston, SC which includes several other choices.

With its candy-colored homes, hallowed historic sites, stunning vistas and incredible cuisine it’s no wonder Charleston is on everyone’s travel radar in the Southeast. And that cannot be overlooked by me personally.

I was lucky enough to live in Charleston for about a year and half before moving back to Japan. I made my way around the city at that time, and one thing was sure; there is so much that I explored in this Americana City which you are definitely going to love.

Butterosales — To uncover history, relish southern menus or join original Carolina experiences. Whether you are interested in exploring historical sites to savoring true oatmeal Carolina tastes; there is a lot for every interest here!

With this being said, on to mapping our your dream 4 day getaway in Charleston SC.

Optimal Times to Visit Charleston, SC

Charleston is one of the top places for travel at any time during the year but if you can choose when to go, visit in Spring from March through May.

Spring: the perfect time of year with generally balanced and not overly hot weather. It also brings flowers into bloom as well as green leaves to the trees further beautifying this area.

But spring is a spring break type travel and you could see more visitors.

If you would rather avoid the crowds completely, plan a trip in late September through November which are part of low seasons. Even though this is also a time of year when tourists flock here, it will have fewer visitors. The crowds dwindle by late autumn, as cooler temperatures set in.

Summer might be the perfect solution if you are into beach vacations. There is great weather to pour on the beach as long as there will be along with much sun rays.

Winter, at last one of the cheapest seasons to travel. It cools down, but costs are lower and the people less.

Let’s get to it and start planning the Charleston, SC 4-days you’ve been dreaming about.

Getting to Charleston

Charleston International Airport is the easiest and most convenient airport to get you into Charleston. The airport is located in North Charleston, about 12 miles north of downtown.

While there is a local bus that connects the airport to downtown Charleston, it has limited routes and schedules. To have greater freedom, you can rent a car or take the taxi/rideshare option for your transfer to your lodging.

A few hotels offer free shuttles to drive you from the airport and back. Best to check your hotel in advance if this is a possible option.

Or you could always drive up to Charleston or catch a bus. Several routes include Charleston on Greyhound buses. Amtrak also operates trains on the Silver Service/Palmetto, which runs along East Coast of United States.

So without further ado, let us get to planning your 4-day idea of the perfect Charleston SC adventure.

Getting Around Charleston

While Charleston is a very walkable city, having car access to explore areas just outside of downtown are essential and quite fun in my book!

Several of the things to do and places visit included in this 4-day Charleston itinerary are not within easy walking distance from downtown or accessible by public transport, so having a car helps.

Local buses will take you a few short distances away, but those don’t go everywhere on-demand and your wait could be an hour.

A better deal, when it comes to getting around Bavaro, are the taxis and rideshares that can take you virtually anywhere in town.

With those cool factors in thoughts, hiring a vehicle is the first-class manner to get around Charleston and spot everything this town has to provide.

4 Days in Charleston, SC: A Quick Overview

Short on time? The following is a quick, condensed version of the recommended 4-day Charleston itinerary while also providing another option should you decide to pass on the beach.

Day 1 – Charleston’s Must-Sees: Begin with Rainbow Row, the Battery & White Point Garden, Charleston City Market, and Waterfront Park. If time permits, consider visiting one of these museums: Charleston Museum, International African American Museum, Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, Old Slave Mart Museum, or Nathaniel Russell House.

Day 2 – Exploring Downtown: Visit Fort Sumter, South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston Farmer’s Market, and stroll along King Street. Consider joining a city walking tour.

Day 3 – Beyond the City: Explore Cypress Gardens or Boone Hall Plantation. Head to Mount Pleasant to see Patriot’s Point, Shem Creek, and the Arthur Ravenel Bridge.

Day 4 – Beach Day: Spend your day at Charleston’s beaches. Choose from Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, or Edisto Island.

Alternative Day 4 – Embracing Nature: Opt for a selection of destinations such as Angel Oak Tree, Charles Towne Landing, Caw Caw Interpretive Center, Magnolia Plantation, and/or Middleton Place.

4 Days in Charleston, SC: Detailed Itinerary

Now that we have the logistics out of the way, let us dive into more detail about Charleston best 4-day itinerary. I have given you multiple options to choose from as well as a back-up plan for those who want nothing about the beach. They are yours to mix and match with any of the itineraries that work best for you.

Day 1: Charleston’s Key Attractions

Charleston Top Sights Think about ticking off all the major things to see in some of Brazil’s most important cities, and never forget: you do not need (and probably should not) see everything at once. What you do will depend on your time of arrival and how far out into the city you want to go.

Take a Walk Along Rainbow Row

One of Charleston’s most famed landmarks is certainly Rainbow Row. This row of 13 vibrantly colored houses is located on East Bay Street near the Charleston Harbor.

Some of the most iconic places in Tallinn are these residences from the 18th century.

While the homes are privately owned and tours on these properties aren’t currently available, you can walk up or down this street as much and for so long as your heart desires.

Explore The Battery & White Point Garden

Located right next to Rainbow Row is The Battery and White Point Garden which are two other historical sites in Charleston.

A fortified seawall and promenade built in the 1800s, The Battery is Charleston’s most iconic landmark alongside Waterfront Park. This for the first time in forever i get a view of that freaking harbor with fort sumter, Fort Moultrie and Sullivans island light.

Also located directly across the streetis White Point Garden, famous for it is many historical monuments and statues. Set among antebellum mansions and oaks festooned with Spanish moss, the quiet garden is an escape from busy Charleston.

Shop at the Charleston City Market

Established in 1807, the Charleston City Market is one of Americas oldest public markets.

home to more than 300 local vendors, this historic market offers a wide array of souvenirs and handcrafted items.

This store carries a variety of products including sweetgrass baskets, porcelain goods and Christmas ornaments, as well as leather purses with finger-pressed fibers; toffee chocolates.

The market goes from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day, except for Christmas; it closes early during the holiday season and other special occasions governed by mall-wide events (such as New Year’s Eve). There is also a night market each Friday and Saturday from 6:30pm to about half past ten.

Enjoy the Scenery at Joe Riley Waterfront Park

You may not visiting Charleston if you did stop through Joe Riley Waterfront Park.

The park, which is also home to a wooden pier and offers beautiful views of Charleston Harbor – sits on 8 acres of waterfront.

It is also home to one of the city’s iconic landmarks, Pineapple Fountain. A huge pineapple sculpture, this iconic landmark of Charleston was constructed in 1990 and is perfect for some unforgettable photos.

Explore Charleston’s Notable Museums

If you get there early and have some time to kill, check out one of the many museums in Charleston.

Charleston Museum – Established in 1773, the Charleston Museum holds the title of America’s oldest museum. It features a diverse range of exhibits covering Charleston’s history, from prehistoric times to the present.

International African American Museum – As Charleston’s newest museum, it is rapidly gaining prominence. Located on Gadsden’s Wharf, where around 40% of enslaved Africans first arrived in the U.S., this museum focuses on the stories and contributions of African Americans throughout history.

Nathaniel Russell House – This neoclassical residence, dating back to 1808, is a National Historic Landmark. It has been restored to its original condition, offering visitors insights into the lives of Charleston’s affluent mercantile families.

Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon – Completed in 1771, this building has served various functions, including a commercial exchange, post office, city hall, and military prison. Now a National Historic Landmark, it features exhibits related to colonial Charleston and the American Revolution.

Old Slave Mart Museum – Housed in a former slave market, this is Charleston’s oldest museum dedicated to African American history. The museum provides a detailed look at the domestic slave trade and Charleston’s role in this part of American history.

Day 2: Explore Downtown Charleston

Spend your second day in Charleston exploring downtown and the harbor. You can visit all places or just a few if this is too much for you. You can do either or these strategies — pick the activities that you are most interested in.

Take a Ferry to Fort Sumter

The monument at Fort Sumter, founded in 1829 and where the Southern forces fired on the Union garrison is also included.

Today a National Historical Park, the fort is open for tours daily. Visitors may choose between a ranger-guided tour or an audio-guided self-tour, to explore the fort and history of those who lived here.

Located on an island in Charleston Harbor, the only way to get to Fort Sumter is by ferry. The ferry provides beautiful views of the harbor and (if you are lucky) dolphins.

There are two points to board the ferry. I recommend starting your visit at the Fort Sumter Visitor Center, which also has a museum and gift shop. You can also catch the ferry to Fort Sumter from Patriot Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant.

Explore Conservation Efforts at the South Carolina Aquarium

aquariums are not typically my thing, but the South Carolina Aquarium was fantastic.

Famous for their commitment to the topics of local conservation, the aquarium operates a wide range of programs.

Some major initiatives include the Sea Turtle Care Center, which provides medical treatment and rehabilitation for sick and injured sea turtles found in Charleston. This aids the turtles and rehabilitates them back to health before they are then returned back into their wilderness.

You can see a lot of this hard work first hand at the aquarium, plus hear about some of their other projects focusing on protecting nature and the environment as well.

Try Local Delights at Charleston’s Farmers Market

Charleston Farmers Market If you’re visiting for a long weekend, check out the largest farmers market in town.

Located in Marion Square, this open-air market boasts a full array of vendors and local farmers as well as artisans from around the region.

Inside you will be able to view a variety of items, from handmade soap and organic honey to farm produce, art objects and handcrafted jewelry.

The Farmers Market runs march to november every Saturday 9AM-3PM. Plus, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Saturdays and Sundays in December there’s the special Holiday Market.

Explore King Street

In Charleston, King Street reigns as one of the hottest spots in town with its range of some of the best restaurants, stores—and hotels and art galleries too.

Just take a stroll around and wander into some of its numerous unique boutique stores or art galleries. If you are in the mood during your visit, have lunch or dinner at one of these eponymous cafes and then party hopping between pubs to listen music.

Even if you are not shopping or eating, there is something nice about walking such a historical street. More Than 300 Years of History King Street is adorned with some of the city’s oldest buildings.

Whether you spend the day or simply make a quick trip in and out of Charleston, King Street is sure to leave an impression defined by its history and culture.

Join a Walking Tour

Charleston offers a variety of walking tours throughout its downtown area. If time permits, participating in at least one tour is highly recommended.

Personally, I find the food tours and ghost tours to be particularly engaging, but many other options are available.

Here are some popular tours you might consider:

• Charleston Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours
• Downtown Charleston Food Tour
• Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour with Unitarian Church Graveyard
• Charleston Haunted Booze and Boos Tour
• Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
• Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour

Additionally, you can explore architectural tours, prohibition pub crawls, and even tours of Outer Banks filming locations.

Day 3: Venture Beyond Charleston

On the third day of your 4-day Charleston itinerary, consider exploring the areas outside the city. With limited time, start with a morning visit to either Cypress Gardens or Boone Hall, then spend the afternoon in Mount Pleasant.

Explore the Swamp at Cypress Gardens

Less than 40 minutes north of Charleston is Cypress Gardens where visitors can explore the hills and twirls their way through a swamp in one of its award-winning boat rides on the famed black waters that course across nearly 170 acres surrounding historic Dean Hall Plantation. A central feature is a flat 80-acre swamp containing a grid of paths for tramming. Casual alligators just wandering around, so be careful!

You can rent a boat to make your way along the waterway, and follow the trail while used beacons that show you hidden paths through this swamp. This was also the location where The Notebook’s 2004 boat scene was shot.

Cypress Gardens also has a butterfly house, swamparium, bird exhibit and gift shop along with colourful gardens.

Visit Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

Charleston is a city whose heritage — and its very existence as an urban center has been shaped by the women, men and children who were enslaved within her walls. Charleston was once the largest slave port without exception, so being named after Fort Sumter from a historical context matters.

The Boone Hall Plantation, founded in 1681 with the labor of slaves producing indigo, then rice and pecans. Today, Boone Hall remains a fully operational farm and grows local produce.

The property has many exhibits and tours focusing on its past as well as the people who worked there. There are self-guided tours from parking area to the original slave cabins, guided tours of The Great House once occupied by generations of middle-level plantation owners, tractor-drawn wagon rides among gardens and under huge live oak trees.

One of the interesting characteristics about Boone Hall are the Gullah Presentations. Run by direct descendants of enslaved Africans, these events delve into Gullah culture through storytelling and music and dance. Discussing the mysteries of a pre-Hispanic and modern owner, they give an intimate relationship with that part of history and heritage.

Delve into Maritime History at Patriot’s Point

History buffs and naval enthusiasts will also want to visit the Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Since the 1970s, this museum has been located in Mount Pleasant along Charleston Harbor.

Catch the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier along with WWII era Laffey Destroyer at Patriot Point. A visit to one of these ships offers a glimpse into the past and its military role. The museum also has a collection of military aircraft and theMedal of Honor Museum.

One of the most noticeable is Vietnam Experience Exhibit, which are quite unique in America. Experience the Vietnam War in unprecedented 3-D holographic detail as witnessed by war veterans themselves.

Stroll Along the Shem Creek Boardwalk

With it’s funky boardwalk of local dining and entertainment along the marshy shores in Mount Pleasant, Shem Creek Waterfront is busy place full of energy. There is a land area and water access to this part where food and drinks can be enjoyed.

The waterfront bars and restaurants here have fantastic views of the marshes surrounding. Expect some long waiting time so it is recommended to arrive early or make a reservation with it’s very good popularity.

When you have more time to spare, make use of the waters with a kayak or paddleboard. You decide if you want to go it alone or join a guided tour. Take a moment and look for dolphins that may be in tow, as they like to follow the shrimp boats returning from the harbor.

Enjoy the Scenery at Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park

Known as the Crown Jewel of Mount Pleasant, this park features amazing views of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and Charleston Harbor.

Near the park at Copper River is a large pier, gift shop and nautical-themed playground. It is widely known among the locals, who gather here to lounge and watch the sunset.

For a hiking adventure, tackle the pedestrian lane on the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Vehicles and trucks are too high to make it under the bridge, but you can ride a bike, or walk/jog on over 2.5-miles of its length!

Day 4: Explore Charleston’s Beaches

On your final day in Charleston, SC, it’s time to unwind at the beach. Charleston boasts several coastal spots, each with its own appeal. Whether you choose to linger at one beach or explore several, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure parking, as spaces can be scarce, especially in the summer months.

Folly Beach

Folly Beach, just 20 minutes outside of downtown Charleston has six miles of white sandy beaches. You will find a variety of things to do here like surfing, sailing, fishing swimming paddleboarding and kayak. The nearby town of Folly is filled with shops, restaurants and bars many offering live music events or festivals during the year.

Kiawah Island

Known for its upscale resorts, Kiawah Island features over ten miles of pristine beachfront. While much of the beach is privately managed, the public can access Kiawah Beachwalker Park. This spot provides amenities such as beach chairs, umbrellas, boogie board rentals, picnic areas, outdoor showers, and a snack bar. The island also hosts numerous water-based activities and tours, including kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and fishing.

Sullivan’s Island

Just a 20-minute drive from Charleston, Sullivan’s Island Beach is quieter alternative and about the same driving time from downtown. It has less commercial locations, so it offers a more peaceful experience with breathtaking ocean views. This is ideal for swimming, kayaking paddleboarding fishing and kite boarding. Keep in mind that the beach is void of public restrooms or commercial establishments..

Isle of Palms

The town lies along a narrow strip of land, hugging the beach, and stretches inland. There are lots of facilities on the beach like Beach chairs, Umbrellas Playground Picnic Area Sand Volleyball Court A boardwalk and a handful of waterfront restaurants lend historic charm, with occasional live music to bring patrons into the moment. From swimming, kayaking and sailing to fishing, surfing or paddleboarding; a variety of activities can be enjoyed on the seas.

Edisto Island

Located an hour’s drive from Charleston off the Atlantic, Edisto Island is more isolated than the resorts above and has some of area’s least developed coastal terrain. A very lightly developed beach, so it is a great place for swimming or kayaking and picnicking. And the Edisto Beach State Park, one of four oceanfront South Carolina state parks with amenities that include camping for tents and RVs as well as fishing, hiking, biking and boating. Experience: Take a trip to Botany Bay, an independant 4,600 acre wildlife management area that is close by. No Swimming but the view with many, fallen trees laying about and all of these beautiful seashells everywhere.

Additional Attractions in Charleston

If you’re thinking about extending your stay or modifying this 4-day Charleston itinerary, consider exploring these noteworthy sites!

Aiken-Rhett House Museum: Built in 1820, the Aiken-Rhett House is one of the finest examples of preserved urban architecture from the antebellum period. The estate includes the original townhouse, a carriage block, a back lot, and historical slave quarters, offering a glimpse into Charleston’s past.

Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry: Ideal for visitors of all ages, this interactive museum invites children to engage with a range of exhibits on art, theater, science, and history. It provides a hands-on learning environment designed to captivate and educate.

Gibbes Museum of Art: Established in 1905, the Gibbes Museum is Charleston’s leading art institution. The museum highlights American art through a collection of permanent exhibits and rotating special displays.

Drayton Hall: Once an 18th-century plantation, Drayton Hall is now a historical site open to the public. Tours offer insights into the estate’s history and the experiences of those who lived and worked there.

McLeod Plantation Historic Site: Another historical plantation, McLeod is managed by Charleston County Parks. This site features exhibits that provide a deeper understanding of the lives of enslaved people in the region.

Boat Tours: Charleston’s port setting makes it perfect for a variety of water-based activities. Consider taking a sunset cruise, a harbor tour, or a dolphin-watching excursion. Fishing charters and oyster harvesting trips are also available for those interested in the local marine environment.

Day Trips: The Lowcountry is rich with destinations worth exploring. Short drives can take you to Hilton Head Island, Myrtle Beach, or Congaree National Park, offering diverse experiences and scenic views.

Where to Stay in Charleston, SC

With a decent number of lodging options in Charleston, you can find the perfect place to stay that falls well within your budget and aligns with whatever kind of getaway you’re planning.

Downtown Charleston

If you prefer to be in the middle of all the action, downtown Charleston is where it’s at. The location is near major highlights, considerable restaurants and beautiful buildings to visit. Most of the places you can even walk too! That said, expect to pay a premium for accommodations in these popular neighborhoods including the French Quarter and Historic District.

Mount Pleasant

Alternatively, if you prefer something more quiet in the suburbs perhaps spend a night or two at Mount Pleasant. Perhaps you would like is across the Cooper River from Charleston, an area of hotels on the water and budget accommodations. Although dining and nightlife are less abundant, Mount Pleasant is near beaches like Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms.

West Ashley

West Ashley is a great option when you want something near the city but with less of an urban feel. This neighborhood, located on the other side of the Ashley River from downtown Charleston is just a quick drive to everything that makes visiting central Charleston fun. Sunny West Ashley comes with numerous historical plantations, shopping centers and fine dining opportunities. You may need a car to get around town and the city center since public transport is limited, just like in Mount Pleasant.

Folly Beach

Folly BeachIf you prefer to stay close to the sea, Folly beach offers a variety of accommodation options from ocean front hotels to personal vacation rentals. There are plenty of little relaxed beachfront restaurants here, as well good bars and a selection of shops. Just be forewarned that closer to the beach comes with top-dollar pricing and there is no public transportation between Folly Beach and downtown Charleston so a rental car will need rented.

North Charleston

If your main priority is budget, North Charleston makes sense. Airport areaThe airport is nestled between some very low priced hotels and motels that are often times located right off major roads. North Charleston is home to a few malls, eateries and the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center. To get around Charleston, you’ll want to book a rental car like anywhere else and read through reviews for the safety of your lodgings, especially in high crime neighborhoods.

What to Eat in Charleston, SC

With an apron on essentially every corner of the city, Charleston is a foodie paradise. Make the most of your 4-day holiday and do not skip these top local food experiences!

South Carolina BBQ

While This Charleston Experience: South Carolina BBQ is a great choice for your quintessential Charleston experience. The BBQ that is famous around here, made rich and slow-cooked over hardwood coals. Check out some of the top BBQ spots where you can eat chickens wangs: Rodney Scott BBQ; Poogan’s Smokehouse; Lewis Barbecue and Swig & Swine BBQ.

Southern Cuisine

As a prominent Southern city, Charleston excels in Southern cuisine. Classic dishes such as fried chicken, shrimp and grits, cornbread, collard greens, Carolina gold rice, and fried green tomatoes are all must-try. Indulge in these traditional flavors at renowned establishments like Magnolias, Slightly North of Broad, Page’s Okra Grill, and FIG.

Charleston Oysters

One of Charleston’s most famous food items is its oysters, and the city provides numerous available farms to reveal local cafes with Atlantic oyster freshly. Try out 167 Raw Oyster Bar, Leon’s, The Ordinary or maybe even the always popular — The Darling Oyster Bar.

Brunch

A leisurely brunch is a must in Charleston They are always delicious and each one is amazing but the city has endless delicious brunch options. A few of the best choices include Vicious Biscuit, The Obstinate Daughter and Miller’s All Day as well as The Junction Kitchen & Provisions.

Final Verdict

So there you have my top list for a 4-day exploration to Charleston, SC! I hope this guide will help as you organize your trip of the best destination in South Carolina.

However you end up playing, a playthrough of Insert Token™ is going to be an unforgettable one. Charleston has so much to offer, you will not be disappointed. Seriously, you are bound to enjoy something!