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There’s additionally a full of life arts and tradition scene, with loads of alternatives to take pleasure in stay music, theater, and dance.
There’s one thing for everybody on this vibrant cultural hub we name the Holy City – from exploring town’s many museums and artwork galleries to taking a stroll via the picturesque streets or a soothing riverboat cruise.
And after all, no journey to Charleston can be full with out sampling a few of the space’s signature dishes, like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup, all served with a wholesome dollop of Southern Hospitality.
I had the chance to go to Charleston final yr and was amazed by the pleasant folks and their Southern attraction, historic buildings, and possibly my favourite a part of all – the scrumptious meals! Foodies will probably be in heaven with the entire nice eating places to select from right here.
Whether you’re seeking to discover town’s historical past, take pleasure in its arts and tradition, or just eat your manner via city, you’ll discover loads of enjoyable issues to do in Charleston to maintain you busy.
TLDR
Best & Fun Things to do in Charleston, South Carolina
1. Sullivan Island
In the Charleston harbor, simply offshore of town, is Sullivan’s Island, probably the most beautiful beaches within the space. If you’re on the lookout for a extra relaxed seashore day, there are many spots to sunbathe or take a leisurely stroll alongside the shore.
For these seeking to spend the time out on the water, it’s additionally an incredible place to catch some waves, because the island is understood for its number of watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, crusing, fishing, and kiteboarding.
At nearly 3.3 miles lengthy, it’s additionally an incredible place to go for a run or bike ride, with loads of breathtaking waterfront views alongside the way in which. Sullivan Island is crammed with charming little mom-and-pop outlets, native eating places, and bars, making it the right place to spend a day or two explorings.
In the night, benefit from the sights of Sullivan Island from the water on a sunset island cruise.
If you’d wish to spend a bit of additional time on the island, think about staying the night time in one of many many vacation leases or lodges nearest to Sullivan Island.
I like to recommend the Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina – it’s outfitted with a beautiful pool and provides a free resort trolley that takes you on to Sullivan Island seashore!
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2. Middleton Place
Address: 4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
This 18th Century’s rice plantation is certainly one of Charleston’s most vital historic websites. The plantation grounds of Middleton Place are fantastically landscaped and residential to America’s oldest landscaped gardens, which span 65 acres.
It can also be the birthplace of Andrew Middleton, one of many signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Visitors can take a tour of the plantation house, which has been restored to its authentic 18th Century look or discover the grounds on their very own. The plantation additionally has a museum with displays on the historical past of the plantation, in addition to a restaurant and reward store.
Middleton Place is a must-visit for historical past buffs and anybody fascinated about studying extra about Charleston’s wealthy previous.
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3. Fort Sumter National Monument
Address: Charleston Harbor, Charleston, SC
Fort Sumter National Historic landmark is the place the primary pictures of the American Civil War have been fired, on April 12, 1861, commencing the savage battle between the Confederacy and the Union.
Today, it’s a preferred vacationer attraction with a museum, ranger-led excursions, and an remark deck with views of Charleston harbor.
Fort Sumter (which additionally incorporates Fort Moultrie) is positioned on an island in Charleston Harbor and could be reached by ferry from downtown Charleston.
Visitors can take a tour of the fort, which has been preserved to look because it did throughout the Civil War or discover the museum and displays on their very own for extra info on the historical past of the fort and the struggle.
The web site can also be a preferred spot for birdwatching, as it’s house to quite a lot of birds, together with pelicans, herons, and egrets.
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4. Charleston Walking Tours
Address: 108 Meeting St, Charleston, SC
One of the perfect methods to see town and absorb some native historical past is by taking a walking tour.
Free Tours by Foot provides quite a lot of excursions round Charleston, together with a normal historical past tour, a meals tour, and even a ghost tour! The excursions are led by educated guides who’re passionate concerning the metropolis and its historical past, and better of all – they’re utterly free!
These strolling excursions are held twice per day (9:30 am and 1 pm every day) and can final about two hours.
This strolling tour is a good way to see a few of Charleston’s hottest landmarks and be taught extra concerning the metropolis’s wealthy and complex historical past whereas getting in some train on the similar time. Be positive to sign up in advance, as spots replenish rapidly!
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5. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Address: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
This plantation is among the oldest within the nation, relationship again to 1676. This plantation has miraculously survived over centuries and has stood tall all through main historic occasions, from the American Revolution to the Civil War and past.
It is finest identified for its sprawling plantation gardens, which span practically 70 acres and are house to quite a lot of flowers, crops, and bushes.
The plantation additionally has a nature middle, which provides excursions and academic applications concerning the native wildlife, in addition to a historic home museum.
Visitors can take a tour of the plantation grounds on their very own or with a information, or discover the gardens at their leisure. The plantation is open every day from 9 am to five pm, with prolonged hours throughout the summer time months.
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6. Waterfront Park
Address: Vendue Range, Concord St
Waterfront Park is a public park positioned alongside the Charleston Harbor and an iconic spot within the metropolis. The park provides beautiful views of the water and the Ravenel Bridge, in addition to a playground, picnic areas, a strolling/jogging path, and bike lanes.
It’s marked by its well-known Pineapple Fountain, which is among the most well-known landmarks within the metropolis and the centerpiece of this park.
Waterfront Park can also be a comparatively brief distance from the Charleston Maritime Center, which provides excursions of the harbor and academic applications about Charleston’s maritime historical past.
Waterfront Park is the right place to chill out and benefit from the scenic Charleston Harbor, and it’s additionally an incredible spot for people-watching or a picnic underneath the solar. The park is open every day from dawn to sundown and is free for anybody to take pleasure in.
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7. Folly Beach
Just a brief drive from Charleston is Folly Beach, one other great place for a day by the water. The seashore is positioned on Folly Island and is understood for its laid-back ambiance and browsing group. If you’re seeking to catch some waves, that is the place to do it!
There are tons of browsing faculties and rental outlets alongside the seashore, so even for those who’ve by no means surfed earlier than, it’s simple to present it a attempt.
And whenever you’re able to check out your sea legs, you may ebook a browsing lesson with a non-public teacher and put your abilities to the take a look at! Those who aren’t into browsing can choose to go stand-up paddle boarding as a substitute, or kayaking.
The seashore can also be nice for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, or just simply stress-free. From the shore, guests can even see direct views of the Morris Island Lighthouse, a lovely outdated lighthouse positioned simply offshore from Folly Beach.
If you get hungry and want a bit to eat, there are a number of eating places and bars positioned on the island, in addition to a small pier the place guests can take a stroll or fish.
If you do end up on the lookout for a restaurant to attempt right here, I extremely advocate The Crab Shack! The meals is superb and the views of the water are even higher.
Folly Beach is open to the general public year-round from dawn to sundown and is definitely accessible by automobile or public transportation. There is a small charge to park on the island.
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8. Charleston City Market
Address: 188 Meeting St
The historic Charleston City Market spans 4 metropolis blocks and is among the most popular tourist destinations within the metropolis. The market is house to quite a lot of distributors and native artists promoting the whole lot from handmade arts and crafts, to sweetgrass baskets, jewellery, and extra.
Visitors can even discover meals distributors promoting native specialties like shrimp and grits, in addition to souvenirs like t-shirts and Charleston-themed presents. The Charleston City Market was voted “Best Place to Bring A Tourist”, so clearly, it’s a must-see whenever you’re on the town!
A stroll via this market is ideal for somebody who needs to do a little bit of procuring and absorb the native tradition on the similar time. The full of life ambiance of the market is contagious, and it’s the right place to speak with locals or discover a distinctive memento to convey house with you.
The farmers market is positioned within the middle of city, with loads of lodges close by for those who’d like to remain near the motion throughout your time in Charleston. Market Pavillion Hotel and The Saint Hotel are two nice choices which can be inside strolling distance of the market.
The Charleston City Market is open Monday via Thursday from 9 am to six pm, with prolonged hours throughout the summer time months. On Fridays and Saturdays, the night time market is open from 6:30 pm to 10 pm, with native distributors promoting meals and drinks, in addition to stay music and leisure.
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9. McLeod Plantation Historic Site
Address: 325 Country Club Dr, Charleston, SC
Founded in 1851, McLeod Plantation is a former slave plantation that was as soon as house to over 500 enslaved Africans. Today, the plantation is preserved as a Gullah historic web site and museum that provides excursions and academic applications concerning the plantation’s historical past and the lives of those that labored there.
The plantation was occupied by Confederate troops throughout the Civil War, and the primary home operated as a navy hospital throughout the struggle.
The finest technique to expertise McLeod Plantation is to take a guided house tour led by one of many educated historians. These excursions final about an hour and a half, and take guests via the plantation grounds, as you be taught concerning the buildings, gardens, and lives of those that labored and lived right here.
The tour of the plantation contains the primary home, in addition to a number of outbuildings just like the kitchen, the slave quarters, and the barn. The tour offers guests a glimpse into what life was like on the plantation for each the slaves and their house owners.
The McLeod Plantation is a robust and sobering reminder of Charleston’s darkish previous. However, it’s also an essential a part of town’s historical past, and I consider that you will need to study and acknowledge this historical past, even whether it is troublesome to confront.
The plantation is positioned simply exterior of downtown Charleston and is definitely accessible by automobile or public transportation. Tours are supplied every day, and advance reservations are really useful.
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10. H.L. Hunley Submarine
Address: 1250 Supply St, North Charleston, SC
The well-known H.L. Hunley, also referred to as CSS Hunley, was the primary submarine in historical past to sink an enemy warship. The submarine was in-built 1863 and utilized by the Confederacy throughout the Civil War to assault Union ships blockading Charleston Harbor.
Unfortunately for her crew, after attacking the USS Housatonic, the submarine sank and all eight crew members aboard have been killed. Curiously, this was the third time she had sunk – and the third time she had taken a brand new crew along with her!
The submarine remained misplaced at sea for over 130 years, till it was lastly found and recovered in 2000.
Today, the submarine is on show on the Warren Lasch Conservation Center, the place guests can see the submarine up shut and study its fascinating historical past.
The conservation middle can also be house to a museum with displays concerning the submarine’s discovery and excavation, in addition to the lives of the crew members. The H.L. Hunley is a must-see for anybody fascinated about Charleston’s maritime historical past of the Civil War.
The Warren Lasch Conservation Center is positioned simply exterior of downtown Charleston and is open every day from 10 am to five pm. Admission to the conservation middle features a tour of the submarine and the museum.
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11. Charleston Food Tours
You know what they are saying, the easiest way to expertise a metropolis is thru its meals! And Charleston is unquestionably a metropolis with some nice meals. From southern classics like fried inexperienced tomatoes or shrimp and grits to Lowcountry specialties like she-crab soup, there’s one thing for everybody to take pleasure in.
One of the perfect methods to pattern all that Charleston has to supply is to take a food tour. Charleston Food Tours provides a number of totally different excursions that target totally different areas of town and totally different cuisines.
The Downtown Dining Tour is a good way to pattern a few of the finest eating places in downtown Charleston, whereas the Lowcountry Lunch Tour takes you to a few of the finest locations for an off-the-cuff lunch.
If you’re on the lookout for one thing a bit of totally different, these Charleston Culinary Tours take you to a few of the metropolis’s best-kept secrets and techniques, like native markets and bakeries.
No matter which tour you select, you’re positive to have a scrumptious time! Tours are supplied every day, and reservations are required to be booked upfront. Trust me – that is one Charleston exercise you do not need to overlook!
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12. Candlefish
Address: 270 King St, Charleston, SC
For guests in Charleston on the lookout for a singular exercise, Candlefish is the right place. Candlefish provides candle-making lessons, the place contributors can select from quite a lot of scents and colours to create their customized candles.
The better part?
You get to take your candles house with you on the finish of the category!
In addition to candle-making lessons, Candlefish additionally provides quite a lot of different lessons, like terrarium making and wreath making. They even have a retail store, the place you should buy candles, house decor, and different presents.
Candlefish is the right place to discover a distinctive memento or reward for somebody again house. This is a superb possibility for anybody who needs a break from the hustle and bustle of the colourful Charleston metropolis life. It’s additionally the right alternative of exercise for households traveling with kids.
Classes at Candlefish are supplied all through the week, and you’ll verify the web site for essentially the most up-to-date schedule. Classes usually final one to 2 hours, and all supplies are included within the worth of the category. Class sizes are restricted, so reservations are really useful.
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13. Striped Pig Distillery
Address: 2225 Old School Drive A, North Charleston, SC
Parents, this one is for you! Charleston is house to quite a lot of nice distilleries, however my private favourite is Striped Pig Distillery. This family-owned and operated business offers tours of their facility, in addition to tastings of their award-winning spirits. You might simply spend a number of hours right here tasting the whole lot they’ve to supply!
Some of the most well-liked spirits supplied at Striped Pig Distillery are their rums, together with their vanilla-butterscotch flavored rum and their well-known Striped Rum, a singular mix of brown sugar and cinnamon.
They additionally supply quite a lot of different spirits, like vodka, gin, and whiskey. In addition to excursions and tastings, Striped Pig Distillery additionally has a retail store, the place you should buy bottles of their spirits to take house with you.
Tours of Striped Pig Distillery are supplied Tuesday via Saturday and begin each hour on the hour. The tour lasts about 45 minutes and features a tasting of three totally different spirits. The price of the tour is $20 per particular person. Reservations are required upfront and could be made on-line.
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14. Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
Address: 25 Ann St, Charleston, SC
Families traveling with kids and on the lookout for one thing entertaining and academic Charleston points of interest ought to look no additional than The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry.
This non-profit museum is devoted to offering academic and interactive experiences for youngsters. The museum provides quite a lot of displays and applications, all designed to have interaction and educate younger minds.
Some of the museum’s hottest displays embrace the Kids Garden, the place kids can play exterior and experiment with totally different scientific ideas.
Also, the Art Studio, the place kids can create their very own masterpieces; and even a faux Publix Market, the place youngsters can study wholesome consuming and vitamin and go looking for meals.
The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry additionally provides quite a lot of academic applications, like story time and humanities and crafts.
The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is open Tuesday via Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm, and admission is $15 for adults and kids over 13 months outdated.
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15. Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge
The beautiful Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is a must-see for anybody visiting Charleston and probably the most well-known Charleston points of interest.
This magnificent suspension bridge spans over the Cooper River, connecting Charleston to Mount Pleasant. The bridge started development in 2001 and was accomplished in 2005. It is known as for former South Carolina senator Arthur Ravenel Jr., who was instrumental in getting the funding for the bridge authorised.
Spanning 1,546 toes, it’s the third-largest cable bridge within the Western Hemisphere. The better part? The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is open to pedestrians and cyclists, so for those who’re feeling adventurous (and never petrified of heights) you may spend the day strolling, biking, or working throughout the bridge.
The pedestrian and bike paths are positioned on both aspect of the bridge, so you may take pleasure in beautiful views of Charleston and the encompassing space whereas getting some train. Just you should definitely convey water and sunscreen, as there isn’t a shade on the bridge.
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is open every day from dawn to sundown, and there’s no cost to stroll or cycle throughout the bridge.
If you’re feeling bold, you may even stroll or cycle all the way in which to Mount Pleasant, the place you may discover extra of Charleston’s historical past, store and dine within the historic district, and benefit from the seashore.
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16. Nathaniel Russell House
Address: 51 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC
This historic home standing at 51 Meeting Street was in-built 1808 for rich Charleston slave service provider Nathaniel Russell. The home is a wonderful instance of Federal type structure and incorporates a grand central staircase, in addition to intricate plasterwork and woodworking.
After years of decline, the Nathaniel Russell House underwent a serious restoration within the Nineteen Nineties to revive the home’s particulars to their authentic 1800s finishes.
Today, it’s a protected landmark underneath the Historic Charleston Foundation and is now certainly one of Charleston’s most popular historic attractions.
A guided tour of the home will take you thru the primary ground, the place you may see the eating room, parlors, and different public rooms. You’ll additionally get to see the kitchen and slave quarters, that are positioned within the basement.
Tours of the home are supplied every day from 10 am to five pm, or you may go for a self-guided tour through the house’s halls.
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17. South Carolina Aquarium
Address: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC
Another family-friendly thing to do in Charleston, the South Carolina Aquarium is a superb place to be taught concerning the state’s various marine life. The aquarium has over 5,000 animals representing greater than 350 species, all of that are native to South Carolina.
The aquarium is split into totally different galleries, every with its personal theme. The Sea Turtle Care Center is a favourite amongst guests, the place you may see turtles being rehabilitated earlier than they’re launched again into the wild.
Other galleries embrace the Mountain Forest, Ocean Floor, and Great Hall, the place you may see animals like sharks, alligators, river otters, and extra.
The South Carolina Aquarium is open every day from 9 am to five pm, and the final entry time is 3:30 pm.
A day spent right here is a superb alternative for issues to do in Charleston, SC with youngsters, as there are many interactive displays and exhibits for them to take pleasure in. General admission is $34.95 for adults and $24.95 for youngsters ages 3-12.
18. The Charleston Museum
Address: 360 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
Founded in 1773, The Charleston Museum is the oldest museum in America. It homes quite a lot of displays on the historical past of Charleston, from its days as a colonial metropolis to the current day.
Inspired by the British Museum in London, The Charleston Museum was based shortly earlier than the American Revolution and has stood the take a look at of time since. It is house to a number of artifacts, paperwork, and artistic endeavors that inform the story of Charleston’s lengthy and wealthy historical past.
The museum has many everlasting displays, in addition to rotating short-term displays.
Permanent displays embrace the “Sweetgrass Basketry Gallery”, which showcases the normal craft of sweetgrass basketry, and the “Doubtful Sound Gallery”, which is a maritime exhibit with a concentrate on town’s relationship to the ocean.
One of the most well-liked displays is the reconstruction of a Charleston single home, which was the commonest kind of dwelling within the metropolis throughout the 18th and nineteenth Centuries. The museum additionally has an exhibit on the Civil War, in addition to quite a lot of short-term displays that change all year long.
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Address: 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
This maritime museum is positioned in Charleston Harbor and is house to a number of historic ships. Visitors can tour the World War II USS Yorktown plane provider, USS Laffey, a WWII destroyer, USS Clamagore, a Cold War submarine, and the USS Edmund Fitzgerald, a Vietnam-era provide ship.
In addition to the historic ships, the museum additionally has quite a lot of interactive displays on maritime historical past.
The Medal of Honor Museum tells the tales of the three,498 recipients of the Medal of Honor, and the Vietnam Experience Exhibit is an immersive exhibit that brings guests again to what it was wish to expertise the Vietnam War.
History buffs and maritime lovers will love spending a day on the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. The ambiance is interactive and informative, making it among the finest issues to do in Charleston for individuals who need to be taught extra concerning the metropolis’s historical past.
20. The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre
Address: 164 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401
If you’re on the lookout for an evening out that’s a bit of totally different from the standard bar scene, head to The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre. This dinner theatre provides interactive comedy exhibits that may have you ever laughing all night time lengthy.
The Black Fedora is a dinner theatre that provides a singular leisure expertise. They are identified for his or her whodunit thriller exhibits, that are set within the Twenties and are stuffed with intrigue, humor, and suspense.
Some of the most well-liked exhibits embrace “Who Killed the US Attorney?”, “The Murder on the PTA Meeting”, and “The Mafia Murders”.
They additionally supply different forms of exhibits, like musicals and holiday-themed shows- all of that are interactive and permit the viewers to take part.
The theatre additionally provides non-public exhibits for teams, in addition to company occasions. No matter what kind of present you see, you’re in for an evening of leisure that you just gained’t quickly overlook!
If you’re on the lookout for one thing totally different to do within the historic metropolis of Charleston, The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre is a superb possibility.
The exhibits are entertaining and interactive, and the dinner theatre setting is exclusive and welcoming. It’s a enjoyable and distinctive technique to spend a night in Charleston, and also you’re positive to have a superb time!
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21. The Citadel
Address: 171 Moultrie St, Charleston, SC 29409
The Citadel is a public navy faculty in Charleston, South Carolina. It is certainly one of six senior navy faculties within the United States and is finest identified for its Corps of Cadets, which is a pupil navy group.
Located on the banks of the Ashley River, The Citadel campus was based in 1842 and has been working repeatedly since The Citadel is finest identified for its Corps of Cadets.
A pupil navy group The Corps of Cadets is made up of about 2,000 college students who stay on campus and observe a strict navy way of life.
However, not each pupil right here is within the navy, The Citadel additionally has a big civilian pupil physique who take lessons alongside the cadets.
The faculty provides a variety of diploma applications, together with engineering, enterprise, and liberal arts, and its graduates go on to profitable careers in quite a lot of fields. The Citadel additionally has a number of athletic groups, which compete within the NCAA Division I.
The Citadel is a singular faculty that provides college students a well-rounded training with an emphasis on management and repair. It is among the finest faculties in Charleston for these fascinated about a profession within the navy or engineering, or just only a cool place to go to whenever you’re on the town.
If you need to be taught extra about The Citadel, its historical past, and its college students, spending a day on campus is a good way to do it!
22. Rainbow Row
Address: 83 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
Rainbow Row is a collection of 13 colourful historic homes on East Bay Street in Charleston, South Carolina. The homes have been constructed between 1712 and 1740 and are a few of the oldest surviving houses within the metropolis.
Rainbow Row is known as for the pastel colours of the homes, which have been as soon as typical of Charleston’s structure. But surprisingly, these beautiful Gregorian houses weren’t all the time these brightly coloured.
In reality, they have been solely painted these colours within the Thirties as a part of a citywide effort to revive and protect Charleston’s historic structure.
Today, Rainbow Row is among the hottest vacationer locations in Charleston and definitely one of many most photographed areas within the metropolis.
Visitors come from throughout to admire the attractive homes, take images, and be taught concerning the metropolis’s historical past. On any given day on East Bay Street, you could find folks taking engagement images, households posing for portraits, and vacationers taking selfies in entrance of the colourful homes.
If you’re visiting Charleston, you should definitely add Rainbow Row to your list of locations to see! It’s a must-see for any first-time customer. Each home has its personal distinctive historical past, and collectively they paint an image of what life was like in Charleston within the 18th Century.
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23. Dock Street Theatre
Address: 135 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401
The Dock Street Theatre is a historic theatre in Charleston, South Carolina positioned within the well-known French Quarter. It is the oldest surviving theatre constructing in America and the primary to be constructed particularly for theatre.
The theatre was constructed in 1736 and opened its doorways with a efficiency of The Recruiting Officer by George Farquhar. This iconic theater operated repeatedly till it was closed in 1809 and became a resort.
In 2011, the theatre was restored to its former glory and reopened to the general public.
Today, it’s used for quite a lot of occasions, together with stay theatre performances, musical live shows, dance recitals, and extra. This theater produces over 120 performances yearly and hosts upwards of 40,000 patrons in its seats yearly!
The Dock Street Theatre is a must-see for any theater lover or Charleston historical past buff. It’s a lovely and historic constructing that homes a number of tradition and historical past. If you’re in Charleston, you should definitely take a look at a efficiency on the Dock Street Theatre!
24. Old City Jail
Address: 21 Magistrate St, Charleston, SC 29401
The Old City Jail is a historic jail in Charleston, South Carolina that operated from 1802 till 1939. It is finest identified for being the location of the hanging of Denmark Vesey, a slave who deliberate a large-scale rebel in 1822.
The Old City Jail was house to many different notorious criminals through the years, together with Lavinia Fisher, who’s believed to be America’s first feminine serial killer.
The jail was decommissioned in 1939 and became a museum. Today, it’s certainly one of Charleston’s hottest vacationer locations. Visitors can take excursions of the jail, study its historical past, see the cells and be taught concerning the individuals who have been incarcerated there.
You would possibly know this already, however Charleston is among the many most haunted cities within the states!
The jail can also be stated to be haunted, and ghost excursions are available for those interested in learning more about the paranormal activity that has been reported right here. For followers of all issues supernatural, this is among the finest issues to do in Charleson, South Carolina.
If you’re fascinated about Charleston’s historical past, or in visiting a spot with a darkish previous, the Old City Jail is a must-see. It’s an enchanting place with a number of tales to inform. And who is aware of, you could even see a ghost!
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25. Revelry Brewing
Address: 10 Conroy St, Charleston, SC
Looking for a spot to chill off with a chilly beer on a sizzling day in Charleston? Look no additional than Revelry Brewing! This native brewery is among the finest within the metropolis, and its taproom is the right place to chill out and luxuriate in a pint or two.
Revelry Brewing was based in 2013 by three buddies who share a ardour for craft beer. They began small, brewing their beer in a storage, and at the moment they’re certainly one of Charleston’s hottest breweries.
Their taproom is open seven days every week, and so they supply quite a lot of year-round and seasonal beers on faucet. They even have a meals truck on web site that serves up scrumptious native delicacies, like burgers, tacos, and extra.
If you’re keen on craft beer, and let’s be sincere, who doesn’t, then Charleston is the place for you. With so many nice breweries to select from, it may be onerous to resolve which of them to go to. But if we needed to decide only one, it might be Revelry Brewing.
This native brewery has an incredible choice of beers, and its taproom is all the time full of life and welcoming. Their beer is a few of the finest on the town and the customer support expertise is unmatched.
Whether you’re a beer lover or simply on the lookout for a spot to chill out and have a superb time in Charleston, swing by Revelry Brewing. It’s positively one of many Charleston vacationer points of interest adults will take pleasure in most!
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26. Charleston City Hall
Address: 75 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC
Charleston City Hall is the seat of presidency for town of Charleston, South Carolina. It is positioned within the French Quarter at 75 Calhoun Street and homes the places of work of the mayor, metropolis council, and different metropolis authorities officers.
The constructing was constructed in 1801 and is among the oldest municipal buildings within the United States. Its doorways opened in 1803, and it has been the house of Charleston’s authorities ever since. The constructing underwent a serious renovation in 1992 and at the moment is a lovely instance of neoclassical structure.
These days, Charleston City Hall is among the most iconic buildings within the metropolis. It is finest identified for its grand staircase, which is a well-liked spot for images.
The constructing can also be house to a number of historic artifacts, together with a chunk of the Berlin Wall and a cannon from the Revolutionary War. Visitors can take a guided tour of Charleston City Hall to be taught extra concerning the constructing and its historical past.
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27. Aiken Rhett House Museum
Address: 48 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403
Built-in 1820 by slave service provider John Robinson, The Aiken Rhett House Museum is a historic home museum in Charleston, South Carolina.
And among the finest examples of antebellum structure within the metropolis. It was the house of Governor William Aiken from 1827 to 1868, and it’s now a museum that’s open to the general public for viewing and free to enter.
Inside the home, you’ll discover an artwork exhibit by Mary Edna Fraser and a flight textile set up. The Aiken Rhett House has even been named one of many best-preserved historic townhouses within the nation.
A home tour of this historic Charleston attraction is a enjoyable and distinctive technique to study a few of Charleston’s sophisticated historical past.
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28. Charleston Music Hall
Address: 37 John St, Charleston, SC 29403
The Charleston Music Hall is among the finest locations to see a stay present within the metropolis! The Charleston Music Hall is a 1,500-seat live performance venue in Charleston, South Carolina.
The corridor is positioned within the historic district of downtown Charleston, and it’s adjoining to town’s Marion Square. It hosts quite a lot of musical occasions and live shows all year long, starting from rock and pop to classical and jazz.
This historic theater was in-built 1849 and is steeped in historical past – it’s identified to be the oldest constructing on the block! Originally referred to as Tower Depot, this constructing was truly initially made to be a passenger station alongside the South Carolina Railroad.
Since then, this outstanding music corridor has been restored to its former glory and is now a state-of-the-art facility with a contemporary sound system and lighting. The venue additionally has a full-service bar and restaurant, so you may take pleasure in a meal or a drink earlier than the present.
If you’re on the lookout for issues to do in Charleston at night time, seeing a present on the Charleston Music Hall is a should! Check the venue’s schedule to see what they’ve got in store.
See Related: Best Charleston Walking Tours: Explore South Carolina on Foot
29. White Point Gardens
Address: 2 Murray Blvd, Charleston, SC 29401
White Point Gardens is a public park positioned in South Carolina that spans over 5.7 acres and is deep-rooted in native and Civil War historical past.
This park was initially in-built 1837 as a public area for Charleston residents to go to, however rapidly grew to become a fortification for town as soon as the Civil War broke out. Within the gardens, you may see remnants of cannons and historic mortars that have been as soon as used to defend this southern metropolis.
Not solely is White Point Gardens a historic attraction, however it’s additionally a soothing place to take a morning stroll or have a picnic with the household.
The giant shady oak bushes that line the park and the ocean views of the Charleston Battery make White Point Gardens an incredible place to go for those who’re on the lookout for a bit of peace and quiet or need to get away from the colourful metropolis middle for some time.
30. Charleston Tea Garden (Charleston Tea Plantation)
Address: 6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487
Next up on the record, we’ve received The Charleston Garden; previously the Charleston Tea Plantation. The Charleston Tea Garden is the one large-scale tea plantation in America – and it’s proper right here in Charleston, South Carolina!
The Charleston Tea Garden is a working plantation in Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina. The plantation offers guided tours of the power so you may be taught all about how tea is grown and harvested.
Visitors can be taught concerning the historical past of tea manufacturing on the plantation and see how tea is comprised of begin to end and even get to see the on-site manufacturing unit the place the tea leaves are processed into scrumptious tea baggage.
The plantation is open to the general public for excursions every day and incorporates a tea tasting room, reward store, and café. Be positive to take some tea house with you whenever you go away!
31. Old Slave Mart Museum
Address: 6 Chalmers St, Charleston, SC
An essential cease on any Charleston sightseeing tour is the Old Slave Mart Museum.
The museum is positioned within the historic district of downtown Charleston and is housed in a former slave market constructing that was in-built 1856, the place it operated till 1863 earlier than being occupied and closed down by the Union Army in 1865.
The Old Slave Mart was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 as a consequence of its function in African-American History in Charleston. Today, the constructing operates as a museum and is devoted to educating the general public concerning the historical past of slavery in America.
Visitors right here can tour the museum and luxuriate in nineteenth Century African American artwork whereas studying concerning the sobering historical past of the slave commerce in South Carolina. For a extra in-depth have a look at Charleston’s slave historical past, take the African American History walking tour that stops at this museum.
32. Angel Oak
Address: 3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455
The Angel Oak tree is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot in Charleston, South Carolina. This large oak is estimated to be 400-500 years outdated, making it one of many oldest residing issues within the state. The tree has survived many storms and critical pure disasters, together with Hurricane Hugo in 1989.
In addition to its age and resilience, the Angel Oak can also be rumored to be haunted!
At night time, some guests right here have claimed to see ghosts of former slaves from plantations across the tree. Visitors in Charleston can tour the Angel Oak tree and grounds, and there are additionally a number of picnic spots close by.
33. Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Address: One Sanctuary Beach Drive, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
For these on the lookout for extra of a luxurious expertise in Charleston, spending a day at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is the way in which to go. This premier seashore resort in Charleston, SC provides a top-of-the-line golf course and world-class lodging with unimaginable facilities.
Located on the beachfront property of Kiawah island, guests to the resort can take pleasure in oceanside views whereas they hit a number of holes of golf underneath the solar. Several well-known tournaments have been performed at this luxurious golf resort, together with the 1991 Ryder Cup and the PGA Club Professional Championship in 2005.
For those that aren’t fascinated about golf, the resort additionally contains the Roy Barth Tennis Center, which is provided with 22 tennis courts which can be open to play on.
Guests on the resort can even take pleasure in high-quality eating at certainly one of their many on-site eating places, take a boat tour across the island, bicycle leases, a health room, or ebook a day of leisure at their luxurious spa.
And the seashore villas and comfy cottages at Kiawah Island Golf Resort make for an incredible place to remain whereas on the island!
Best issues to do with youngsters in Charleston
The youngsters are in luck in relation to family-friendly points of interest in Charleston – there are a number of nice issues to do with youngsters in Charleston!
The South Carolina Aquarium is a well-liked attraction, as is the Charleston Museum. For one thing a bit of totally different, take a sunset boat cruise to see the dolphins on the Sunset Dolphin Safari, or go on a horse carriage ride via town.
Getting round Charleston
Charleston is a really walkable metropolis, and finest explored on foot. The French Quarter, the place many of the metropolis’s points of interest are positioned, is very pedestrian-friendly. However, there are additionally various public transportation choices out there for individuals who desire to not stroll.
The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates buses all through town. CARTA additionally provides a free shuttle service that runs each quarter-hour and stops at the entire main points of interest within the French Quarter.
There can also be a prepare that runs from Charleston to Columbia, South Carolina. The Amtrak Silver Meteor stops on the Charleston Amtrak station, which is positioned simply exterior of the French Quarter.
For these seeking to see some points of interest exterior of town, there are numerous automobile rental firms positioned in Charleston. RentalCars, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz, and Avis all have areas within the metropolis.
Be positive you’ve opted for journey insurance coverage via a reputed company like World Nomads or TravelInsurance.com earlier than renting a automobile right here, because the roads could be very congested. It’s all the time higher to be secure than sorry!
The closest airport to Charleston is the Charleston International Airport (CHS), which is positioned about 10 miles from town middle.
CHS is served by various main airways, together with American Airlines, Delta, United, and extra. Depending on the place you’re arriving from and what time of the yr you’re touring, you may simply find cheap flights to Charleston.
FAQ
What are some enjoyable issues to do in Charleston?
There are loads of enjoyable issues to do in Charleston, South Carolina it doesn’t matter what your pursuits are. For historical past buffs, a go to to Charleston City Hall or the Charleston Museum is a should.
Nature lovers will take pleasure in a stroll via one of many metropolis’s many parks or a go to to the South Carolina Aquarium. And for these on the lookout for a bit of pleasure, there are many bars and golf equipment to take a look at within the metropolis. For shopaholics, take a look at King Street.
What are some issues to do in Charleston when it’s raining?
There are nonetheless loads of issues to do in Charleston when the climate isn’t excellent. Take a tour of the Charleston Museum or the Edmondston-Alston House.
Or, discover one of many metropolis’s many outlets and boutiques. If you’re on the lookout for one thing to do with youngsters, head to the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry.
What is there to do in Charleston without cost?
There are many issues to do in Charleston without cost. Visit the Battery, stroll via White Point Garden, or discover Waterfront Park. You can even take a self-guided strolling tour of town or go to certainly one of Charleston’s many historic church buildings.
What are the perfect vacationer points of interest in Charleston?
The finest vacationer points of interest in Charleston rely in your pursuits. Overall, a few of the hottest vacationer points of interest in Charleston embrace Charleston City Hall, the Charleston Museum, Waterfront Park, and the Edmondston-Alston House.
When is the perfect time to go to Charleston?
The finest time to go to Charleston is dependent upon what you’re seeking to do when you’re on the town. If you’re fascinated about exploring town’s historic points of interest, then visiting throughout the spring or fall is a good suggestion.
However, for those who’re extra fascinated about profiting from town’s outside actions, then visiting throughout the summer time could also be a greater possibility.
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