27 Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC [Bucket List]

Charleston, SC is a top destination in the American South. It’s full of history, culture, and friendly locals. There’s a lot to love about Charleston, from its stunning architecture to its waterfront views. The city is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine. You’ll find plenty of fun activities and sites to explore.

I’ve visited Charleston many times. Each visit is as enjoyable as the last. You can easily spend a long weekend exploring the best attractions and eateries.

This guide covers everything you need for your trip. It includes top things to do in Charleston SC, recommended accommodations, the best tours, and where to eat. Plan your visit and experience all that Charleston has to offer.

Top Things to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

1. Stroll down the Battery

Walking the Battery is a top activity in Charleston. It’s a beautiful walkway by the sea, once a defensive seawall. Today, it’s perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze and sunset views. The Battery showcases classic Charleston architecture and horse-drawn carriages. Don’t miss out on the photo opportunities here.

2. Chill Out at Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park was the highlight of my trip. It’s a great spot to unwind. Kids love playing in the Pineapple Fountain’s cool waters. The park stretches along the Cooper River in downtown Charleston. You can wander through the gardens, walk the esplanade, or enjoy the fountains. Make sure to grab some Belgian Gelato from across the street. It’s my go-to for desserts and pancakes.

3. Chill and Thrill Experience: Charleston’s Haunted Tour Waterfront Park

Without a haunted tour, a Charleston visit is not completed: whether you are into the supernatural world or looking for something different to fill in your nightly Charleston time. The tour is based on some of the city’s buildings or sites with quite grim experiences of footprints from the past.

The haunted landmarks tour is spacious, covering several of city’s spooky areas, including the chiller populated graveyards, racially haunted Old Exchange, to the more modern-day haunted grounds of Charleston College.

Each of these lands has a chilling ghost story that will leave you watching your back. Therefore, if you love hearing or seeing about the dead, the Charleston ghost tour is something to try, especially during the chiller nights.

4. The Charm of Charleston’s French Quarter

If you want to take a romantic walk in Charleston, consider the French Quarter. It was established by fleeing the French Huguenots from religious persecution, and it is now characterized by numerous beautiful historical churches and art galleries.

If you are interested in history, pay a visit to the Dock Street Theater and St. Philip’s Episcopal Church. You will discover the rich history of Charleston while strolling around. While you’re there, buy an artwork so you will never forget these unforgettable moments. The neighborhood offers fantastic gourmet dining options where you can taste southern cuisine. If you want to turn it into a full experience, book a hotel in The French Quarter Inn.

Their classic southern hospitality and warm welcome will make your stay here complete. The French Quarter offers all these aspects, history, artistic tradition, and luxurious vacation in one place.

5. Explore the Historical Elegance of Nathaniel Russel House

One of Charleston’s premièred historical destinations, the Nathaniel Russel House was built in neoclassical style by Nathaniel Russel, a prosperous merchant and a prominent slave dealer at the end of the 18th century. While beautiful and elegant, the very walls of the house bear the heavy burden of a dark history: the back-breaking, underappreciated labor of slaves who contributed to the construction but are hardly remembered in its decoration.

A visit to the house includes a tour through the remarkable neoclassical edifice with its unique plasterwork, oddly shaped rooms, the notable three-story staircase, and the well-maintained gardens tickets may be bought at the site.

Any Charleston travel experience can only be enhanced with a visit to the Aiken-Rhett House Museum. The acquisition of this additional tour will provide the visitors with an all-encompassing notion of the lowcountry antebellum mansions and the history of the city in general.

6. Visit the Iconic Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row is another must-see site in Charleston. These thirteen pastel-colored houses located near the Battery and the warehouse were constructed in 1740 and served both as merchant shops and residences at the same time.

After the Civil War, the whole place turned into ruins, recovering only in 1931 when one of the houses was bought by Dorothy Porcher Legge who painted it pink. Once her neighbors saw it, they decided to do the same with their properties, which resulted in Rainbow Row. Today, these colorful facades of the 13 houses in the neighborhood are a great place to take pictures.

It also tells the story of how the place was turned into shambles post the Civil War period but was restored thanks to the properties of one woman.

7. Pick up some local crafts at Charleston City Market

If you want to take a bit of Charleston back home, the Charleston City Market is the ideal destination for souvenir hunting. The center is mostly known for the divine sweetgrass baskets made by local Gullah artists – a craft with over 300 years of history.

Anything from quirky crafts to inspiring artwork or even tasting foods is bound to attract everyone’s attention. The market is open daily from mid-morning to mid-evening and only closes on December 25th.

By chance, during your afternoon’s shopping spree, you should also taste Peninsula Grill’s famous 12-layer coconut cake located close by. The experience is a fitting end to a day spent shopping and cultural discovery.

8. Charleston’s Rich Museum Culture

Not only is Charleston famous for its beautiful beaches and waterfront, but also its culture, and outstanding art museums, in particular.

The first museum to be visited is the Charleston Museum opened in 1773. As one of the first museums in the United States, its exhibits “provide an unhurried full-day plunge into local history and culture”.

The museum is positively “including the Lowcountry History Hall, The Armory, Historic Textiles, and Charleston Silver”. The visit to the Bunting Natural History Gallery is unforgettable, providing interesting facts about the region.

The museum experience is unique due to the special exhibits, and there are no similar items throughout the city. Another museum to visit is the Gibbes Museum of Art, telling the history of the region in a compelling manner. Its exhibits feature Miniature Portraits, 18th and 19th – century American paintings, and the Charleston Renaissance items that are called “the best paintings of Charleston that have ever been seen”.

9. A Glimpse into America’s Past: Old Slave Mart Museum

The Old Slave Mart Museum in Charleston can provide you with a touching experience closely related to America’s history of slavery. After the international slave trade had been banned in 1808, the domestic trading of slaves among states intensified, with Charleston becoming the epicenter of the trade.

Today, a building that formerly constituted a part of the local slave auction block functions as the museum. The division of the past from the present by the rescue of the building’s wall allows visitors to have a close look at its former realities. The collection of exhibits can provide you with explicit details and emotions related to the history of slavery, as well as educate you about the slave trade in terms of its impacts and mechanisms.

Be prepared that some of the displays are rather graphic and will be unsettling. Visiting the museum can be an enriching experience for most people since it often causes strong emotional responses. It is depressing to be reminded about the dark side of the past, but it is also important to learn from it and develop.

10. Layers of History at the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

Venture into the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon for a dive deep into Charleston’s historical depths. This building has worn many hats over the centuries, functioning as a customs house, public market, meeting place, and notably, a prison during the American Revolution. It stands today as a testament to these varied chapters, having been recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1973.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the extensive historical exhibits spread across the top two floors. For a more immersive experience, the Provost Dungeon on the cellar floor offers guided tours. These tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-seen, shadowy corners of Charleston’s past.

11. Experience Charleston’s Charm with a Downtown Carriage Tour

You can see the city by taking a sightseeing tour. A special type of a trip is a downtown carriage ride. It takes several hours and allows you to view the main city landmarks at the same time. Sitting in a comfortable carriage seat, you wonder at the grand mansions, ancient churches, and lush gardens planted along the route.

However, it is not just a ride but an educational tour. You learn more about the history of the Old South, the main architectural regularities presented in the city, and the most influential figures Charleston. The process is so fruitful that sometimes you forget that it is also an extremely pleasant way to relax.

12. Opt for On-Foot Historic Walking Tour of Downtown Charleston

If you’d like to explore the city on your own two feet, we’d recommend taking a walking Historic Tour through the city center. You can choose from numerous guided tours that unfold some of the most interesting pages of the city’s history. The tour can take place for two hours by the end of which you will have wandered through the city’s historic small street and lanes.

Many key sites will be included into the tour. You will have a chance to visit the scenic White Point Garden, explore the mysterious Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, and see the imposing City Hall. All the sites are very different providing a better understanding of the historic and modern days of the city.

13. Set Sail on a Charleston Harbor Tour

This tour lasts an hour and a half and is a brilliant way to see the surrounding areas from the water. Moreover, as you drift along, get close-up views of significant historical sites, including Fort Sumter. The trip is fully narrated and interesting! While taking on this harbor tour, you can learn about the landmarks you see and their unique role in American history. This check off the list of places to see provides a relaxing time and a nice way to learn new things for visitors of all ages.

14. Charleston: Food and Drink Tour

Drinking and eating around town, especially when you are on vacation, is definitely enjoyable. For individuals passionate about new and exciting cuisine, Charleston won’t disappoint! Tasting Lowcountry cooking is an item on any traveler’s CCV checklist, so shrimp and grits and fried chicken as well as fresh seafood is definitely enjoyed.

Even though you are intrigued by trying out the BEST beer in town, these fantastic options are definitely about to spice up your vacation:

• Downtown Charleston Culinary Walking Food Tour
• Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour

Both tours provide a delicious and insightful way to understand why Charleston’s food scene is revered across the South.

15. Visit the Unique Charleston Tea Garden

If you love drinking tea, we have found the perfect spot for you! The Charleston Tea Garden is located on Wadmalaw Island, a short drive from Charleston. Even though halfway through this list, you might think this is another similar tourist attraction. However, don’t be fooled! This tea garden is one of the most unique places on this side of North America since it is the only tea garden “grounded” on this valuable continent!

The endless tea bushes AND endless views are spectacular, and, more importantly, the gardens have free admission! Of course, the company also offers a trolley tour, which I take definitely recommended. Even though you need to pay for this tour, the tour focuses on the complete overview of the lush fields and tea production rolling out in front of you.

16. Explore the Wonders of the South Carolina Aquarium

Adequately positioned and having a perfect view over Charleston Harbor, the South Carolina Aquarium is a top-rated attraction in Charleston for families. It is an exciting and educative experience for adults and children surrounding the diversity of sea life it showcases. The purpose of establishing the aquarium was to offer families inquisitive and interactive opportunities to learn about the significance of marine life conservation.

17. Join Charleston Fossil Adventures

Being a different outdoor activity, Charleston Fossil Adventures brings you the chance to educate yourself and bring enthusiasm to your heart. You will be able to go fossil hunting, perhaps finding your first shark tooth in a situational cultural interaction.

Furthermore, Charleston Fossil Adventures offers their clients the possibility to make their own fossil jewelry. Go hand-pick the right sizes, types, and colors that will adorn your neck, wrist, or fingers for the years to come, or for only a few days. This will be a great memory resulting from an exhuming adventure like you’ve never experienced before.

18. Charleston’s Historic Plantations: A Journey Through Time

Do you want to learn about the history of the South? The historic plantations in Charleston provide a vivid perspective on the antebellum era, allowing visitors to travel back in time and witness the living conditions before the Civil War.

Besides, the area is home to many well-preserved plantations that make an ideal destination for a one-day trip. The most common choices among visitors are Boone Hall, Middleton Place, and Magnolia Plantation as well as Drayton Hall. If you are on a budget, I would recommend checking out Charles Pinckney’s Snee Farm as it is free of charge. These plantations used to be maintained by slaves who grew indigo, rice, cotton, and other plants. Nowadays, they are a key educational resource that sheds the light on an important era in the American history.

If you want to make the most of your time at the plantation, you may want to book a tour. The highly recommended options include the following:

• Boone Hall Plantation Admission and Tour from Charleston: This is a comprehensive tour that provides detailed insights into the history of the Boone Hall Plantation. The legacy of the plantation will leave you amazed and give you the best understanding.
• Middleton Place Tour & Lunch with Transportation from Charleston: If you want to extend the experience and learn more while tasting the most common things made in the South, the Middleton Place Tour will be a perfect choice for you.

19. Visit Angel Oak on John’s Island

Angel Oak on John’s Island takes place among the most majestic live oaks of the Southern United States. It is more than 400 years old, and besides a massive amount of shade that this tree can provide to a group of people, it is one of the best places for photographers.

Like other places of interest on John’s Island, such as Charleston Tea Garden, the tree has a story to tell. Although the tree cannot speak, it can share silent memories of various periods in American history, from the most glorious to some macabre. As a result, it became one of the highly appreciated landmarks in John’s Island due to its significant cultural importance.

The mythology also states that the tree receives visits of angels, who are the spirits of African-Americans’laves buried on this land. Thus, rather than being an exciting place for taking pictures and resting in the shade, Angel Oak creates a highly authentic and somewhat mystical atmosphere that helps people to get connected to a living witness of American history.

20. Rich Heritage of Gullah-Geechee Culture in Charleston

The Gullah-Geechee culture is a rich heritage you must experience when in the American South. It emerged from the isolation of enslaved Africans on islands and coastal plantations. This community developed its culture, including unique traditions, foods, art, and a language.

A well-known art form from the Gullah is the sweetgrass baskets, which the people have been making for generations. The baskets are beautiful and have significant historical meaning. They symbolize the indomitable spirit and creativity of the Gullah-Geechee people.

You may also immerse yourself in this culture by undertaking a Gullah tour around Charleston. Such a tour can take you to the Slave & Free Blacks Cemetery at Bethel United Church, Old Jail, and Philip Simmons House. On the tour, you can learn more about the Gulla and gain a new perspective of the people’s enduring legacy. Ensure you also buy a handcrafted sweetgrass basket from Charleston City Market before the tour ends.

21. Unwind at the Scenic Cypress Gardens

Drive down to the Cypress Gardens and unwind amid stunning nature. Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and take a serene boat glide through the swamps. Fans of the film might remember a romantic boat outing with Noah and Allie on a lake filled with geese in “The Notebook.”

In fact, the boat scene featuring Noah and Allie was shot in Cypress Gardens, but do not be alarmed – the geese flew back after the scene was shot, but the beauty of the filming locale stays the same. Take a tranquil swamp boat glide, journey through the Butterfly House, and come view around seasonal flowers, which change every season and throughout various times of the year.

22. Historic Fort Sumter

Another extraordinary site from the American Civil War is Fort Sumter. The island fortification is situated in the waters just off the coast of Charleston.

Today, the fort is managed by the National Park Service that runs a small museum within the fort. The museum offers a comprehensive story and successful demonstration of the role the fort played during the war.

The structure is also home to various and informative exhibits and historic cannons. While visitors are not allowed to walk atop the cannons, they can walk around and see the pieces. Additionally, they can enjoy the beautiful views and breathe in the salty sea air of the Atlantic Ocean.

Access to the fort is available by ferry that leaves from Liberty Square or Patriot’s Point. Therefore, it is important that you program your visit to include the ferry ride to be able to visit this site.

23. Enjoy Views from Ravenel Bridge

If you are the type who likes to incorporate some exercise with amazing views, we highly recommend taking a walk or a bike ride through Ravenel Bridge. The bridge over the Cooper River has a lane dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists, and At Downtown Charleston, the views are worthwhile.

Take a leisurely stroll or do it like a race through the bridge; everywhere is perfect for soaking in the fresh air and enjoy the city views. The Ravenel Bridge is a popular pedestrian walkway because people not only want to watch it but also want to pass through as well. So what are you waiting for? Lace up your sneakers or get on your bike for a trip to this beautiful Charleston landmark?

24. Bird Watching at Caw Caw Interpretive Center

For bird lovers who will visit Charleston, SC, a visit to the Caw Caw Interpretive Center is a must. One especially popular activity at the center is guided bird walks offered to give you a chance to explore local wildlife. You can always check their calendar to find out the day and time of the walks.

This center is located the nearest to downtown Charleston at only a 10-minute drive. It has a long history behind it, being previously the rice plantations where enslaved Africans worked.

Caw Caw nowadays is the place actively visited by the nature of the area as it has several miles of extensive nature trails, visitors will have a chance of walking on elevated boardwalks and cross quite a few scenic bridges. This venue is perfect for anyone ready to experience and feel the unity with the nature of Lowcountry.

25. Watch Eagles, Owls, and Falcons Take Flight

The Avian Conservation Center’s Center for Birds of Prey is a place to go and observe how eagles, owls, falcons, and other birds take to the sky. The center, located just north of Charleston on a 152-acre property, rehabilitates, researches, and monitors these amazing creatures.

In the center is a medical clinic where wounded birds are healed, in addition to areas designated for conservation and education. The center hosts trips on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, which include close-ups of birds and a sort of live flight display.

The latter includes hawks, owls, red-tailed falcons, kites, and vultures, showing visitors different methods of flight and hunting.

26. Charleston’s Beautiful Beaches

Another incredible reason to visit Charleston is the chance to see fellow stunning beaches in less than an hour’s drive from downtown. From a sandy beach where you can relax or swim, to a good vantage point to watch the ocean, there is always something to suit every need.

I recommend hitting the waves when you get a chance to visit Charleston. Drove out of downtown until you hit a beach – it is easy to handle the road because you only need to follow several roads that lead to the coast to find one of the best beaches in the city.

Some of the top beaches include Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island – both awesomely down to earth alternatives, Bull Island supposing that you want a more reserved spot, or Isle of Palms; this beach is family friendly. You can even make a date with one of these beaches, and you can let me know which your favorite beach even is.

27. Morris Island and Shark Teeth

Morris Island is an 840-acre uninhabited island in Charleston Harbor, which can only be reached by boat. In the past, the island was strategically important during the American Civil War. Nowadays, Morris Island is famous for a clean and almost deserted beach where thousands of shells and fossilized remains, including shark teeth, can be found.

Many tour operators, such as Adventure Harbour Tours, conduct guided tours that not only allow people to dive for shore troves but also study the island’s ecological status with its numerous inhabitants. In addition, these tours are often accompanied by acclamations for dolphins.

Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Charleston, SC

Optimal Seasons for Visiting Charleston

While Charleston, South Carolina presents attractions at all times throughout the year, it is best to visit the city during the spring months, from March to May, and the fall months, September and November. These periods offer a perfect weather condition suitable for city touring as they feature mild temperatures and reasonable humidity.

The springs get magnolias popping and offer a host of festivals, including the Festival of Houses & Gardens and the Charleston Wine & Food Festival. But there is a catch; this is the peak tourist period, and there will be huge crowds and expensive hotel rooms.

The falls also provide a good climate condition as such activities as food and arts festivals will be on the high notches, including Restaurant Week and the MOJA Arts Festival. A good time for a foodie and culture vulture.

The summers can become hot and humid, attracting beach-goers and their families, and winters are coo hour and less full of travelers, with more affordability in the hotel rooms. The visitors warm up in February due to the Valentine’s Day events, even though snow is a part of Charleston.

Places to Eat

Charleston, SC, is a food-lover’s paradise with endless eating options catering to every palate.

Bertha’s Kitchen located at Meeting Street Road is a favorite among local patrons and tourists alike. Founded in 1981, it is known for its hearty comfort dishes, such as collard greens, fried chicken, limas that come dazzling in every plate.

Poogan’s Porch gives a unique Low country dinner right in the middle of a beautifully restored Victorian. Open in 1976, the spot is a charming testament to the rich vibes that flow through the beautiful city.

Hannibal’s Kitchen located at Blake Street is perfect for someone who loves classic southern dishes. It offers mouth-watering chicken, crab rice, and their fish, among other dishes.

Florence’s Lowcountry Kitchen  is another hidden gem where patrons enjoy the iconic south dishes. The seafood and southern traditional dishes serve the unique taste of South foods done right. All remove cravings of South cookery types are at Florence’s.

How to Reach Charleston, SC

By Air: The Charleston International Airport is the main service provider for the city. The airport is located a short distance away from the historic downtown, and less than 20 mins from it. It has an impressive list of airlines on a regular service, making it easy to reach the location from multiple destinations.

By Road: Two major highways to consider en route to the city: Interstate 26 and U.S. Route 17. Each provides an excellent view of the region as you approach your destination within the city.

By Rail: Traveling by rail is another option to consider. Charleston is on the way of the train route Silver Service/Palmetto, and it is convenient to visit the city by train. For some more information and schedules, check out their details here.

Essential Travel Tips for Your Charleston, SC Visit

Tour and Attraction Bookings: With these in mind, let’s jump into the essential travel tips for your Charleston, SC visit. First off, make sure to check Get Your Guide, which I highly recommend for finding the best deals for various tours and attractions in Charleston. The booking platform has been helpful when planning your visit and saving on activities, among others.

Furthermore, you can also purchase a Charleston Tour Pass if you are looking to explore many things in one trip. The tour is a favorite for most travelers because all the attractions are more affordable from one pass.

Accommodation: You can also look for the best hotels in Charleston, SC, to get your best fit. Remember to use our brief one-day itinerary for Charleston if your visit is only for a short period.

On the other hand, you can check the 3-day itinerary for a detailed Charleston adventure. Make sure to bring your walking shoes for exploring the downtown area on foot, sunscreen, a hat, and enough water for the warm months.