Things to Do in Charleston, SC - Charleston Attractions
Charleston is one of America's most historic cities. With over 400 years of history, there are plenty of attractions to explore here. Here are some popular things to see and do in Charleston.
There's a hidden passageway that is often missed when visiting Charleston. Philadelphia Alley is a beautiful brick and cobblestone path that has the quaint charm that Charleston is famous for and walking down it feels like stepping back in time.
This quiet alley might seem ordinary, but there's a unique history attached to it. Also known as “Dueler's Alley”, it is said that back in the 1700s this was the location that people would use for settling disputes. A famous story is one of the Whistling Doctor who participated in a duel but met his demise in Philadelphia Alley.
One of the fun things to do in Charleston is to wander down different streets and pathways, never knowing what history may be stumbled upon. When strolling around, don't miss out on seeing this fascinating alley!
Charleston, SC 29401
One of the best things to do in Charleston is to visit the historic Fort Sumter. This is one of the most significant locations in US history as it was here that the first shots in the American Civil War were fired. Now it is a national park open to visitors. Inside the fort are park rangers that will tell some of the history and stories about when it was used. There is also a museum inside with many artifacts and information about Charleston's involvement in the war.
Even those who aren't substantial history buffs can enjoy this tour! To get to Fort Sumter and back, there is a relaxing ferry ride across the Charleston Harbor with views of the city skyline, the famous Ravenel Bridge, and the USS Yorktown. It's the perfect way to get on the water and see Charleston from a different angle and possibly even see dolphins!
+18438833123
South Carolina 29412
The South Carolina Aquarium has many of South Carolina's native animals and plants, from the state's mountains to the sea. Located on Charleston Harbor, the views from the aquarium also give you a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat!
The largest exhibit is the Great Ocean Tank, which is the deepest tank in North America, filled with fish, sharks, and even a sea turtle. There is also a touch tank where guests can touch horseshoe crabs, Atlantic stingrays, and other animals.
Another section inside the aquarium is the Sea Turtle Care Center which takes in injured sea turtles and rehabilitates them until they can be released back into the wild. In this area, guests can see the sea turtles and learn about the care they receive from the staff and volunteers of the aquarium. With knowledgeable staff and many interactive elements, the South Carolina Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Charleston with kids!
+18435773474
100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401
Located on an ideal island in the Charleston area, the Charleston Tea Garden is the perfect place to see how tea is grown and made in South Carolina. Take a trolley tour around the 127-acre tea field and take the informative factory tour that shows what happens to the tea leaves to make the different varieties of tea.
The Charleston Tea Garden gift shop offers the chance to taste test the nine flavors produced on their premises, including the American Classic Tea, which is the only brand of tea made exclusively with one hundred percent American-grown tea. The gift shop sells all the teas produced here as well as several hundred tea-related items.
As America's only tea garden, this is one of the most unique things to do in Charleston. Even those who aren't tea lovers can enjoy the views of the beautiful land and the magnificent trees growing at the Charleston Tea Garden!
+18435590383
6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487
Charleston is known for its history and culture, and a great way to find both is at the Historic Charleston City Market. Built in the early 1800s, it is one of the oldest public markets in the country and is full of unique goods made in Charleston.
It is here that many local artisans sell their work. Anything from paintings, photographs, jewelry, clothing, food, and so much more. Some artisans can even be seen working on their art, especially those weaving sweetgrass baskets, an art that is primarily concentrated in South Carolina's Lowcountry and a special Charleston tradition.
One of the fun things to do in Charleston is to explore the open market to see the many small and unique shops, meet the artisans, and even purchase the perfect Charleston souvenir!
+18439370920
188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Food in Charleston is always rated as some of the best in the world and Poogan's Porch is no exception. This restaurant has delicious Lowcountry cuisine perfect for brunch and dinner all while being served inside a beautiful building.
Poogan's Porch is a restored and converted Victorian house located on quaint Queen Street. Along with the amazing food, this restaurant is also known for having its own ghost story. It was named after the dog, Poogan, who lived here until 1979. There are tales of visitors seeing the ghost of the dog as well as the ghost of the previous owners.
One of the best things to do in Charleston is to eat true Southern cuisine and Poogan's Porch is the perfect place to do so!
+18435772337
72 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
When looking for one of the most unique things to do in Charleston, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum is the perfect stop. While most buildings in Charleston have been renovated or restored, this house has been preserved in the state it was founded. The furniture, architecture, paint, and decor are all as they were in the mid-1850s.
The Aiken-Rhett House Museum is open for guests to take a self-guided audio tour through the preserved home. Visitors can learn the history of the people who resided here, including the lives of those enslaved on the property. It is truly an eye-opening tour that gives a deeper look into some of Charleston's past.
+18437231159
48 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403
One of the most impressive Charleston attractions for cultural engagement is Charleston Music Hall. This is what to see in Charleston if you want to see some of the top musical acts today. A beautiful and historic space, Charleston Music Hall is one of the best concert venues around Charleston. Charleston Music Hall has been through a lot.
First established as part of the state railroad under the name “Tower Depot,” it evolved to be retail and office space before closing down upon the arrival of the Great Depression. Revived as a music venue, it has hosted legendary acts like David Crosby, Ray Charles, and David Byrne. Hearing the amazing story of Charleston Music Hall makes it even more heartwarming to know that it all turned out for the best.
+18438532252
37 John St, Charleston, SC 29403
The historic importance of Charleston is monumental, and the Charleston Museum does a wonderful job of illustrating this. If you're looking to come to Charleston this weekend, going to the Charleston Museum is among the best activities.
Here, you can see great exhibits that different points of Charleston's history. The Charleston Museum is like a historian's waking dream. Permanent exhibits take you through Charleston's history as well as places like Ancient Rome and Egypt.
Younger guests will be overjoyed by checking out the interactive delights of “Kid story,” such as seeing what it's like to operate a lighthouse. One of the top museums in the south, the Charleston Museum is more than deserving of your patronage.
+18437222996
360 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
Top among Charleston attractions for the fashion-conscious is Hampden Clothing. Going to this clothing outlet is lots of fun, both for people who love to shop and those who think it's not their cup of tea. At Hampden Clothing, you'll be around so many great items to add to your wardrobe. Hampden Clothing was founded by Stacy Smallwood, with a focus on giving women greater confidence through clothing.
There are remarkable pieces made by great designers, such as Ulla Johnson and Borgo de Nor. You can find great clothes for all occasions here. Few things can make you feel as cool as picking up a sharp new outfit.
+18437246373
314 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
