What to do in Charleston, SC

Activities, attractions and tours

Charleston
Charleston
Charleston
Charleston
Charleston

Charleston Attractions

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

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

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

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

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


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What to do in Charleston


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Charleston

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Charleston Historic District

5/5(35 area reviews)

Appreciate the authentic antebellum ambiance as you move between historical homes, museums, markets and waterfront parks on foot or by horse-drawn carriage tours.

Charleston Historic District
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Downtown Charleston

4/5(6 area reviews)

Travellers to Downtown Charleston praise its fantastic nightlife. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal and Charleston Music Hall.

Downtown Charleston
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West Ashley

West Ashley is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site or Citadel Mall.

West Ashley
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Cannonborough Elliotborough

If you're spending some time in Cannonborough Elliotborough, Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Cannonborough Elliotborough
Charleston

Harleston Village

While visiting Harleston Village, you might make a stop by sights like Marion Square and The Riviera Theater.

Harleston Village
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French Quarter

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal to Dock Street Theater – discover French Quarter, a destination also famous for its shopping.

French Quarter

 

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Day trip destinations from Charleston