What to do in Charleston, SC

Activities, attractions and tours

Charleston
Charleston Historic District
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site which includes a park
White Point Gardens showing a statue or sculpture
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site showing a garden

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

Charleston Historic District showing heritage architecture

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
Edmonston-Alston House featuring a house

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 Charleston Music Hall and Music Farm.

Downtown Charleston
Battery Street Waterfront, Charleston, South Carolina

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
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site showing heritage elements and a house

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 Citadel Mall or Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site.

West Ashley
Walking down random alleyways, I found a graveyard with people that are buried from over 200 years ago.

Harleston Village

While visiting Harleston Village, you might make a stop by sights like Marion Square and Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist.

Harleston Village
Cityscape of the historic downtown French Quarter district in Charleston, South Carolina

King Street

If you're spending some time in King Street, Marion Square and Charleston Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.

King Street

 

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Day trip destinations from Charleston

Frequently asked questions

Is Charleston worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Charleston is visit South Carolina Aquarium. Tick this top attraction off your agenda, then experience more of this area's golfing and culture.
How do I spend a day in Charleston?
Begin your day with a visit to Patriots Point and South Carolina Aquarium. Then, explore other areas of Charleston for a quick bite and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Charleston?
You can't go home without exploring South Carolina Aquarium, ranked the top tourist attraction in Charleston.
Is three days enough to stay in Charleston?
Three days in Charleston is plenty of time to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many guests stay for three days on average. South Carolina Aquarium, International African American Museum and Charleston Museum are highly rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots such as North Charleston.
Is Charleston a walkable city?
That depends on what you plan to do and see in Charleston. Several top sights, like South Carolina Aquarium and International African American Museum, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Charleston's best neighbourhoods, Downtown Charleston is 2 kms (1 mile) away from downtown, while Charleston Historic District is 0.32 kms (0.20 miles) away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Charleston with kids?
What to do in Charleston for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Charleston, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Firefly Distillery or Credit One Stadium.
Are there free things to do in Charleston?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Charleston. If you're looking for inspiration, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Sunrise Park Beach is a must for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing adventures.

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