places to visit in charleston south carolina

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28 Best Things to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

Planning a trip to the Holy City? Here are 28 of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Planning Your Perfect Charleston Itinerary

Can’t-miss attractions, top things to do in charleston for history lovers, for foodies, for families with kids, for couples.

• For Groups of Friends

Consistently ranked among the best cities in the United States by Travel + Leisure readers, Charleston is a vacation treasure trove, with an incredible food scene made up of old-school favorites and inventive newcomers, a prime location surrounded by water and near beautiful beaches, and plenty to see and do. As a South Carolinian who lived in Charleston for several years, I've seen and done it all in this Lowcountry destination, but in order to round up the best things to do in Charleston, I also tapped local experts from a few of my favorite hotels, including David Hood, head butler at The Spectator Hotel, and Jason Horbal and Mike Wilson from the HarbourView Inn.

"For history lovers, the historic downtown has much to see and do. Between the walking tours, historic homes, and museums, there is plenty to see that will keep you busy for days. For others, outside of downtown, there are beaches, yachting, fishing, golf, shopping and so much more. Charleston also offers some of the best cuisine in the South," says Wilson, front office manager at HarbourView Inn.

With something for every type of traveler, here are 28 of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you’re short on time with just a day or two to explore Charleston, there are a few must-see spots to check out. Thankfully, several of the city’s top attractions — including King Street, the Battery, Rainbow Row, and Charleston City Market — are all located within walking distance of each other and can easily be seen in one day. If you’re spending several days in the Holy City, I recommend visiting those can’t-miss sights before diving deeper into Charleston history and culture with a museum visit or tour (more on our top picks below). And if you have time, rent a car and explore the surrounding areas; you can lounge on the beach at Sullivan’s Island, go golfing on a renowned Kiawah Island course, or search for shark teeth on Morris Island. 

Stroll along Waterfront Park and the Battery.

Start in Joe Riley Waterfront Park, where you'll see the iconic Pineapple Fountain, and walk down along the water before strolling over to Rainbow Row, made up of several candy-colored Georgian-style row homes. Continue down East Bay until it becomes East Battery, another scenic street with views of the harbor and historic houses.

"Charleston has a very European city feel to it, balancing small-town intimacy with cosmopolitan amenities and offerings (probably part of the reason why Charleston, South Carolina and Spoleto, Italy have been "sister cities" for nearly 50 years). I enjoy strolling around the downtown peninsula, in the heart of the historic district, where travelers can experience a variety of dining, history, art, culture, and more, all on foot," says David Hood, head butler at The Spectator Hotel.

Related:   Charleston Travel Guide

Walk down King Street.

A visit to Charleston is incomplete without a stroll down the main drag, King Street. On Lower King, find antique shops packed with all sorts of vintage wares; Middle King features a mix of locally owned shops and high-end boutiques; and Upper King is home to some of the city's best nightlife and dining.

Take a ghost tour.

Get acquainted with the spooky side of the city and learn about some of its eternal residents on a ghost tour. Bulldog Tours has options ranging from a visit to the haunted (and historic) old jail to a paranormal investigation of the USS Yorktown .

Pick up a sweetgrass basket.

There are few souvenirs as iconic as a Charleston sweetgrass basket. Created by Gullah artisans with designs ranging from functional to intricate, you can find these baskets, woven from local marsh grass, throughout the city (with many sellers in the Charleston City Market ).

Visit the International African American Museum.

After more than two decades of planning, the International African American Museum (IAAM) opened its doors on June 27, 2023 at Gadsden's Wharf, one of the nation’s most prolific former slave trading ports. The landmark project aims to showcase the breadth of African American history through nine core exhibition galleries, a special exhibition gallery, and contemporary art throughout the space. In addition to more than 700 artifacts from the 17th century to the present day, the building also houses the Center for Family History, a genealogy and ancestry resource center. On the ground level, the African Ancestors Memorial Garden will spotlight the shoreline where hundreds of thousands of enslaved Africans first set foot in America, creating a new space for reflection, programming, and learning opportunities for all.

Learn about U.S. history on the USS Yorktown.

While the historic city is perhaps better known for its significance during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, you can learn about World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum , where you'll find the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, a destroyer, and a submarine, along with other educational exhibits.

Explore Fort Moultrie and Fort Sumter.

The two forts that make up the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park tell the story of Charleston's role in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Fort Moultrie, located on Sullivan's Island, was in use from 1776 to 1947, while Fort Sumter, found on an island in Charleston Harbor that's only accessible by boat, was the site of the start of the Civil War.

Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum.

In a city known for its former plantations and antebellum homes, it's important to recognize the true human history. The Old Slave Mart Museum is located inside a building that was used as an auction gallery where enslaved people were sold. Here, you can learn more about the history of slavery in Charleston.

See the Angel Oak.

Considered the largest Southern live oak tree east of the Mississippi River, the Angel Oak on Johns Island is one of South Carolina’s treasures. The tree is estimated to be at least 400 years old, which is evident given its sprawling branches that shade an area of over 17,000 square feet. A new 44-acre preserve featuring boardwalk trails, a play area for children, and educational information about the tree is underway, so visitors will have even more to look forward to in the future.

Learn about Gullah history and culture.

The Gullah are African American people from the Lowcountry regions of South Carolina and neighboring states, and their history and culture (and language, also called Gullah) are important parts of the Charleston story. Join Gullah Tours to learn more about Black history in the city, stopping at significant places like Denmark Vesey's home, quarters where enslaved people once lived, and more.

Start your day with biscuits.

Start your day with a warm, indulgent biscuit. Choose from nationally acclaimed Callie's Hot Little Biscuit (which has two outposts downtown) or head across the river to Mount Pleasant for Vicious Biscuit , a personal favorite. At the latter, I order The Vicious, a cheddar and jalapeño biscuit stuffed with fried chicken, their signature maple sausage gravy, house cowboy candy, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Shop local at the farmers market on Saturdays.

Saturday mornings are best spent in the heart of downtown Charleston at the farmers market on Marion Square. Find local produce, artisan crafts, and snacks to enjoy while you browse.

Eat your way around the city's best restaurants.

"Charleston’s robust culinary scene has inspired visitors to experience a few of the city’s most popular dining hot spots that have made best restaurant lists time and time again, and for good reason," says Jason Horbal, assistant general manager at HarbourView Inn . Charleston has long been known as a foodie destination, with a mix of newcomers and established favorites. My top recommendations include Wild Common for the incredible tasting menu, Fig for elevated Southern dishes, Hank's Seafood Restaurant for tasty seafood, and Halls Chophouse for steaks followed by bread pudding. That said, Horbal also encourages visitors to ask locals (including the knowledgeable staff at your hotel) for any under-the-radar favorites. "My favorite thing to do in Charleston is discover the lesser-known, hidden gems of restaurants that tend to fly under the radar," says Horbal.

And order these classic Charleston dishes.

On your culinary tour of the city, there are a few local dishes that visitors must try (and they're featured on the menus of many restaurants). Try fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and hush puppies (delightful balls of deep-fried dough, often served as a starter or a side), all washed down with a glass of sweet tea.

Sip some local brews.

Local breweries abound in Charleston, so try one (or a few) of the beers from the likes of Edmund's Oast Brewing Co. , Holy City Brewing , and Westbrook Brewing , or head to the Firefly Distillery , known for their fan-favorite sweet tea vodka and fruit-flavored moonshine.

See the local marine life at the South Carolina Aquarium.

This waterfront aquarium is home to more than 5,000 animals and the Sea Turtle Care Center, which aids sick or injured turtles. The AZA-accredited aquarium highlights the marine life found throughout South Carolina, from the mountains to the coast.

Cheer on the Charleston RiverDogs.

Charleston is home to a Minor League Baseball team — the RiverDogs — so those looking for a sporty outing can snag tickets to cheer them on. (Fun fact: Actor Bill Murray is a part-owner of the team.)

Visit Charles Towne Landing.

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site , located in West Ashley, is home to the site of the first European settlement founded in South Carolina (in 1670). Here, you can explore the gardens, visit the original settlement area, and even see animals that lived in the area when it was settled. "It has a perfect mix of history and scenery, and you can really get a sense of what Charleston and the Lowcountry are all about with its self-guided history trail, bike rentals, strolling through the alley of live oaks, and visiting its 12-room exhibit hall," says Hood.

Watch eagles, falcons, and owls take flight.

The Center for Birds of Prey at the Avian Conservation Center offers visitors an opportunity to learn about birds of prey in a beautiful setting. Situated on a 152-acre campus just north of Charleston, the center includes a medical clinic for injured birds and a facility for research, conservation, and educational programs. The center offers tours and flight demonstrations every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, allowing visitors to observe the flight techniques and hunting styles of eagles, hawks, owls, falcons, and vultures.

Search for shark teeth on Morris Island.

Only accessible by boat, Morris Island is an 840-acre uninhabited island in Charleston Harbor. Used as a strategic location during the American Civil War, the island has a rich history, but few physical traces of its battleground past remain. Instead, you’ll find a secluded beach studded with shells, fossils, and shark teeth. Tour operators like Adventure Harbour Tours offer guided excursions that focus on searching for beach treasures and learning about the island’s ecology – and you may even spot some dolphins along the way.

Take a sunset cruise.

Getting out on the water — river, harbor, creek, or ocean — is a must when you visit Charleston. One way to take advantage of the waterfront location is a sunset cruise through the harbor aboard a catamaran or tall ship .

Admire art from near and far.

Head to the Gibbes Museum of Art to see works ranging from 18th-century paintings and decorative arts to contemporary pieces from local artists. After that, you can visit some of the many galleries throughout the city — perhaps you'll even find a piece to take home as a souvenir. I recommend art lovers time their visit to the yearly Spoleto Festival, which welcomes artists from around the globe for a 2+ week performing arts extravaganza.

Stroll the Shem Creek Boardwalk.

Shem Creek, located in Mount Pleasant, is home to several waterfront seafood restaurants, and you can walk along its boardwalk to take in views of the water, marsh, and boats (and breathe in that fresh, salty air).

Lounge on the beach.

Downtown Charleston is just a short drive from the area's three popular beaches: Folly Beach, Isle of Palms Beach, and Sullivan's Island Beach. Each has soft, white sand and a distinct feel: Folly has lively bars and restaurants just steps from the shores, Sullivan's Island — my personal favorite — is more residential, and Isle of Palms is somewhere in between, with easy public access via Isle of Palms County Park.

Related: The 13 Best Beaches in South Carolina

For Groups of Friends 

Hit the links at acclaimed golf courses..

Thanks to the South Carolina Lowcountry's comfortable weather and fantastic courses (many offer beautiful views of the marsh and water), you can golf year-round in and near Charleston. One of the area's most famous courses is the stunning Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort.

Paddle around on a kayak tour.

Take a kayak tour through the marshes and creeks around Charleston to get close to the area's incredible marine and wildlife. Charleston Outdoor Adventures is one of several tour operators in the area — just don't forget your sunscreen.

Walk the Ravenel Bridge.

Charleston's famous bridge connecting Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, has a path for pedestrians. You can walk across its entirety — or just a section — for sweeping views of the harbor (if you're not afraid of heights).

Hop around the rooftop bars.

Get a new perspective on the Holy City — and see the many church steeples that give it that nickname — with a visit to one (or a few) of the rooftop bars around Charleston. Options include Fiat Lux at the Hotel Bennett (my favorite), Citrus Club at The Dewberry, Pavilion Bar at the Market Pavilion Hotel, The Rooftop at The Vendue, and Élevé at the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston.

Related: 15 Best Hotels in Charleston

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The 21 Best Things to Do in Charleston

By Allston McCrady

People gravitate to Charleston for many reasons: its buzzing restaurants , eclectic art scene, curb-appeal homes, and proximity to the water—not to mention the rich history and overall southern charm. Those components all combine to make it one of our readers' favorite cities year after year. Here, we've combined them all into our list of the best activities and the top spots to hit the next time you're there—spanning old and new, we've got all the essentials that will ensure you remember your trip to this Lowcountry gem, pay homage to its past, and have plenty of souvenirs to bring home. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, you'll never run out of new and exciting activities to try in this city—from fine art museums and live music to the meals and hotels not to miss. These are the best things to do in Charleston.

Read our complete Charleston travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Gibbes Museum of Art Arrow

This stately Beaux Arts building in the heart of downtown Charleston houses a permanent art collection spanning four centuries. You can browse the museum shop on the ground floor at no cost (a nice way to duck the weather), or pay to head upstairs for an immersive view of Charleston’s artistic past and present. The Gibbes is not a huge museum: you could walk through it in under an hour, but it’s better to linger, to savor your favorites, and to read the insightful commentary. Not all paintings are Charleston-centric in subject matter, but as a whole they tell a Charleston story: a pastel portrait dated 1711 created by America’s first known female artist; aristocratic oils depicting Colonial residents in silk and lace finery; ornate silver monogrammed teapots hammered with palmetto imagery for a wealthy Antebellum patron; glazed stoneware hand-signed by its enslaved maker. There are watercolors and etchings from Charleston’s 1920s and 1930s artistic “renaissance,” sweetgrass pieces fashioned by Gullah weavers, and the vivid and surreal paintings of celebrated local artist Jonathan Green. 

Bluegrass Brunch at High Cotton Arrow

Brunch at High Cotton restaurant is a hot ticket—reservations recommended, unless you manage to beat the church crowd and stampede there early. It’s a convivial place divided into four separate dining areas: a cozy, darkly paneled bar where the bluegrass players set up, a rear “French Quarter” room opening to a patio, the more formal “East Bay Room” (the quietest seating, musically), and the grand, sunny main dining room surrounded by street-facing windows. The food is a smorgasbord of southern flavor—fittingly, as brunch is should be an indulgent ritual–and highlights include crispy fried oysters, buttermilk fried chicken over Belgian waffles, and the like. Meat lovers go for steak & eggs (twin filet mignon) or the burger with sunny-side-up egg and béarnaise. Bring your family (cinnamon rolls and beignets for kids). Bring your friends. Tap your toes to the upright bass, and feel your mood lift.

Self-Guided Walking Tour Arrow

Sure, you could hop on a horse carriage , or into a pedicab, or join an official walking tour, all excellent ways to explore the city. But sometimes you want to explore at will, without a historical lecture in your ear, and the best way to do that is on foot. This is a walking tour that clocks in at just under two miles in length, and it's a must-do for anyone visiting Charleston. Start at Waterfront Park , whose pier juts out into the harbor, to scope out the original Colonial city wall, then make your way to the East Bay, where you might just catch a regatta in progress. Ogle over the live oaks at White Point Gardens, and walk south to north on Legare (pronounced Lah-GREE) for the best vantage points of what are arguably Charleston's most beautiful homes—and stop at 14 Legare, the "Pineapple Gates House" for pics. End at Goat.Sheep.Cow , where you can have them arrange a picnic spread that you can take to nearby Washington Square, and feast on expertly curated cheese under the shade of a live oak tree.

Center for Birds of Prey Arrow

Up the coastal highway sits an extraordinary sanctuary for birds of prey, a non-profit that takes in injured eagles, falcons, owls, hawks, pelicans, etc., treats and releases them. Clearly the staff and volunteers have hearts of gold and perform an essential service, but luckily for the public, it’s also a captivating place to visit. Eighteen miles northeast of Charleston, you pull off at the giant metal bird sign, where a winding dirt road leads you back, deep into the maritime forest, to the preserve. You learn about threats to different avian species worldwide, about breeding and reintroduction programs, about migratory instincts and built-in sonar and other trivia. Meanwhile, wild red-tailed hawks and bald eagles pass high overhead. Education Director Stephen Schabel says that his record for bald eagle sightings in a single day was forty!—and that if he doesn’t spot at least eight, he’s doing something wrong.

Steph Koyfman

Alex Erdekian

Laura Walsh

Jamie Spain

Two Sisters Tours Arrow

These two sisters, whose family has been in Charleston for seven generations, know the city better than almost anyone. Mary Helen Dantzler and Therese Smythe retired from careers as lawyers, then followed in their mother’s footsteps (a venerable tour guide herself). If you book a tour, you’ll get one sister or the other. They don’t work in tandem. They tried that once, but you know how sibling dynamics go. So they work solo. You can join a group tour for $25 per person by signing up on their website, or call to arrange a private tour for a higher fee. We gathered in Washington Square for roughly a two-hour walk through the cobblestone streets and hidden alleys of Charleston. For a balanced, local’s introduction to Charleston, from grand houses to former slave quarters, this is it.

The Caviar Bar at Zero George Arrow

Boutique hotel Zero George is known for the epicurean wizardry of its executive chef, Vinson Petrillo. But while many come for the tasting menu at the hotel’s ground floor restaurant, The Caviar Bar is something separate and exclusive. By reservation only, you’ll walk through wrought-iron gates into the garden courtyard, up the steps of the beautifully restored 1804 house, to an open piazza, where you are led to your marble-topped table. Flickering votives, ornate banisters, birdsong, palm trees and maples, all set the scene, while soft jazz crooners set the mood. This is an impress-your-mate, impress-your-date spot for sure: cozy, posh, romantic, refined. With only two seatings per evening, you share the veranda with a handful of other well-dressed couples, some of them guests of the hotel, maybe even the devoted local couple who comes weekly. It’s not really intended for the pre-theater crowd (even though the Gaillard Auditorium is a block away) because you really shouldn’t rush the experience to make a show on-time

High Wire Distilling Arrow

High Wire, Charleston's first distillery since prohibition, has been drawing people in with its distinctive spirits and  cypress-paneled tasting room, and a tour is a fantastic way to take in everything it has to offer. Each tour is limited to 16 people, and they fill frequently. You’ll get a close look at a succession of custom mills and gleaming tanks, including a giant copper pot still with a Jules Verne-style window. You’ll learn the science behind milling, mashing, heating, agitating, fermenting, and distilling—the almost magical process that turns liquid to vapor and then into liquid again. For the grand finale, you get to sample the artisanal hooch in the tasting room, either as flights or in cocktails designed for you to replicate easily back home. For a full tour of the distillery floor, reservations are highly recommended. Pro tip: walk-ins can opt for an abbreviated tour from the comfort of their bar stool.

Afternoon Tea at Hotel Bennett Arrow

This is a grand hotel, so naturally there are multiple restaurant concepts onsite for fresh variety. La Pâtisserie is a sunny and gorgeous space for morning coffee, tea, smoothies, and pastries by French Pastry Chef Rémy Fünfrock, plus daily artisanal sandwiches and desserts galore (try the strawberry sponge cake). Rooftop lounge Fiat Lux is great for afternoon and evening cocktails (both spirited and non) plus charcuterie boards, elevated nibbles, and some pretty amazing rosemary duck fat fries. Perhaps the most over-the-top experience is Hotel Bennett’s weekend Afternoon Tea (by reservation), a fantastic ritual that unfolds in the ground floor oval Camellias Bar, named so because you are literally surrounded by glittering wallpapered accents of giant camellias. A jacketed server pours flights of sparkling rosé at the flower-studded bar, then walks across softly-hued pink marble to deliver towers of savory canapés to each table, followed by another tower of sweets prepared by the aforementioned French pastry chef—all washed down with your choice of a wide selection of leaf teas and herbal infusions. Plus the bar moonlights as a swanky destination for champagne, oysters, and caviar.

Cypress Gardens Arrow

Those of you who remember the romantic rowing scene from The Notebook , or the haunting swamp hideout for Revolutionary hero Francis Marion in Mel Gibson’s The Patriot , have already previewed this singular locale. Hollywood location scouts choose Cypress Gardens for its wildly picturesque blackwater swamp, but also for its well-managed accessibility. For $5, you can let a local guide do the paddling for you as he points out wildlife and historical trivia in a wonderfully thick southern accent. Or you can opt to paddle yourself; just follow the little white arrows that suggest a route around the vast bog. Don’t worry if your boat bounces off a cypress tree or two (it’s hard to steer clear of them all). Duck as you pass under two walking bridges, and keep your eyes out for seasonal birds, alligators, and turtles who have crawled out to sun themselves. Before or after you boat, you should walk at least part of the 3.5-miles of trails encircling the water. It’s beautiful any time of year—each month features different fascinations: camellia blooms and bald eagles in winter, azaleas and wild violets in spring, lily pads and booming frog choruses and droning cicadas in summer, rust-colored foliage and screech owls in fall, plus the egrets and otters.

The Charleston Museum Arrow

As museums go, there’s nothing stuffy or old-school about this one, even though it just celebrated its 250th year of existence. The formidable modern structure houses relics from Charleston’s past, and weaves a story from the 18th century to the present. Visitors wander through history, both cultural and natural, listening to recordings by locals. It’s a great place to ground yourself, and to catch your breath in the museum’s restful inner courtyard.

Ibu Movement Arrow

Like magic, a small street-front doorway and single staircase serve as a portal to 50 different countries. Textiles from 50 countries, that is, but you feel transported. The one-of-a-kind, second-floor boutique was born of founder Susan Hull Walker’s passion for craftsmanship (she weaves), for travel, and a mission to empower female artisans around the world. Ibu is an Indonesian-Malay term honoring women. So when you buy the thing you never knew you needed and suddenly can’t live without, you are not only giving a deferential bow to its maker, you're also doing a small part to help disrupt poverty and fund financial independence for a global sister.

Sullivan's Island Beach Arrow

Located at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor, the beaches on this island are ones that have been loved for generations, as is evidenced by some of the gingerbread cottages in the historic part of town. But what makes these beaches special, compared to Charleston's other beaches , is their wide expanse of sand, peaceful waves (because of sandbars), and natural paths through vegetation that not only make you feel as if you're stepping back in time, but protect the shoreline during storms and build a sense of anticipation for that first glimpse of blue water.

Citrus Club Arrow

Citrus Club serves well-curated small plates and fanciful cocktails to adults only (21-and-up). You don’t have to be a guest of the club's home at The Dewberry Hotel to access the it, but you will need to check in with the concierge by the elevator to receive a temporary keycard granting you access to the sky. The 8th floor elevator door spills you into a pristine white lobby hung with local artist Douglas Balentine’s charcoal beach figures. A host leads you to your table. While the indoor space and velvet bar stools are terrifically chic, the outdoor terrace is Citrus Club’s calling card. Guests tuck into posh little nooks separated by potted olive trees, lemons, limes, and a smattering of palms. Uninterrupted breezes travel from prevailing corners of a 360-degree view. You can see clear from river to river with a piña colada in hand.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort Arrow

Kiawah Island bills itself as a “stone’s throw” from historic Charleston, S.C. and if so, we'd like to meet the person who can throw that stone. Realistically, the 21-mile drive takes about 45 minutes. The leisurely drive through a tunnel of oaks takes you onto the barrier island which, although close to the mainland, feels worlds away. On your agenda: self-pampering, resort fine dining, tennis, kayaking, and world-class golf. If that sounds about right, Kiawah is well worth a day’s excursion or overnight; The Sanctuary is the only Forbes 5-Star and AAA 5-Diamond hotel in the state.

Robert Lange Studios Arrow

On a typical daytime visit, this gallery and working artist studio feels terrifically spacious and calm, with indie acoustics on the playlist and paintings covering contemporary subjects are on the walls. One dynamic exception occurs on the first Friday of each month, when lots of area galleries (see King Street for more) stay open into the evening, offering up drinks and hors d’oeuvres for what Charlestonians call the “Art Walk." On that night, RLS is elbow-to-elbow indeed, with easily a thousand people passing through to sip wine and discuss paintings, or to play with the interactive “stack your own rocks” table upstairs.

Preservation Society of Charleston Arrow

If you seek an authentic Charleston keepsake, this store off King Street has you covered. Think of it as a souvenir shop with taste and soul. Every item they source is locally made, with the exception of books that may have been published elsewhere, and pecans from a farm two hours north. The independent boutique was founded by and is still run by one of Charleston’s prominent preservation groups, thus the name. After your initial walk-through, head to the back room for comfy couches, old wood floors and tapestry rugs, a gaggle of great books to peruse, and air-conditioning! 

King Street Arrow

Although more chain stores have moved into this multi-block shopping stretch in the last few years, it's still a walker's paradise. If you love to avoid looking like "everyone else," then get fully outfitted at Hampden Clothing, Worthwhile or Ibu Movement , then accessorize with a blingy bauble (heirloom, preferably) from Croghan's Jewel Box or Joint Venture Estate Jewelers. Scent thyself with high-end spritzes from Cos Bar or Blue Mercury, shop for silver and the coffee table or curio to display it at George C. Birlant or the other antique shops, then accessorize your home with a piece of artwork from a variety of galleries, ranging from Hagan Fine Art to classics from the Audubon Gallery.

Mrs. Whaley's Garden Arrow

Unlike Charleston's historic homes, the city's private gardens are rarely open to the public, with throngs of visitors buying tickets for bi-annual house and garden festivals and tours. But here’s a secret: Emily Whaley’s garden at 58 Church Street stays open year-round, on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. And it's just the way Mrs. Whaley would've wanted it. In 1997, the feisty octogenarian known as “Cheeka” to friends and family wrote a book of musings, opinions, gardening thoughts, and memories, all woven together into a conversational memoir titled Mrs. Whaley and Her Charleston Garden . The book made the New York Times bestseller list, and 20 years on, the author's private oasis is still attracting visitors. Slip your $10 through the front door mail slot, then swing open the gate and walk back: you'll feel the breeze rustle through shade plants, see the bumblebees nudge climbing roses, and the acanthus sending up spiky purple blooms.

Coastal Expeditions Arrow

Greater Charleston is both surrounded by and interlaced with saltwater marshes, and kayaking is a great way to appreciate that. You can either rent kayaks (singles or doubles) or standup paddle boards to venture solo (with tips on where to go), or book guided tours of varying lengths with Coastal Expeditions. It is quite common to see surfacing dolphins feeding in pairs and groups, with the occasional summer manatee making an appearance.

Charleston Bike Taxi Arrow

Why Uber when you can take a bike taxi? They're an open-air way of being chauffeured from Point A to Point B, with unobstructed views of the city. We can all agree that fewer cars on the road are a good thing. Less noise, less pollution, quieter streets. Ten years ago, there weren’t that many pedicabs in Charleston. Now there are three companies. We like this one because of its professionalism, polish, promptness, and easy-to-spot telltale yellow cabs. You can flag one down, or call to be picked up.

In the Kitchen with Chef Bob Waggoner Arrow

This is as much dinner party as it is cooking class, visible to the street by a large surround of glass. Chef Waggoner hands you a glass of brut rosé Champagne, and there’s a bit of small talk, but then you get right to it, following his rapid-fire directives. You hone knife skills, learn to “blanche and shock,” to cut on the bias, to score fish and get a proper sear and finish it off in the oven, to caramelize and deglaze, to reduce and emulsify. There’s no published schedule for what you’ll be cooking on any given night. It’s up to the chef, and what looks best at the market that particular day. When we were there that included vermillion snapper on a bed of fennel, shallots, asparagus, green peas, and flat parsley, sautéed in a saffron-orange-butter-white-wine reduction, garnished with sunflower sprouts. Multiple wine pairings are included in the evening’s flat price. 

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Visitor Guide

Book your vacation, the official charleston visitor guide – spring 2023.

Welcome to the Official Charleston Visitor Guide for Spring 2023! This comprehensive guide showcases the best of Charleston and is designed to help you make the most of your trip. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find plenty of things to see and do in this charming city, which is steeped in history and Southern hospitality. From historic landmarks and breathtaking beaches to world-class restaurants and charming boutiques, Charleston has something for everyone. So get ready to explore and let this guide be your companion on your journey. We hope you have an unforgettable Charleston experience!

Charleston's nonstop flight list is growing.  Check if your airport is on the list.

Request a mail-in Visitor Guide  via CharlestonCVB.com

17 essential things to do in Charleston, South Carolina

Oct 28, 2021 • 8 min read

The city of Charleston is a unique blend of historic charm and modern entertainment © Getty Images

Charleston has upped its game. Carriage tours still clip-clop through the historic district and ferries still shuttle crowds to Fort Sumter, but new attractions and revamped old favorites are keeping the Holy City relevant – and fun.

Rooftop bars, innovative breweries and small-batch distilleries keep opening their doors while plantations and historic homes are digging deep into Charleston’s diverse and complicated history. And foodies take note: Debates about the city’s best barbecue are just as passionate these days as debates about shrimp and grits. 

This list of Charleston’s best things to do offers a mix of the old and new.

Stroll the Historic District

Historic Charleston feels like one big living museum, and it's easily explored by foot. Antebellum homes, grand churches, weathered cemeteries and brilliant gardens – often tucked behind wrought-iron gates – hug the straight and narrow streets, which were laid out in the 1670s. Highlights include the colorful homes of Rainbow Row and the Battery and White Point Gardens on the waterfront at the southern tip of the peninsula. Pick up a map at the visitor center .

Culinary Adventures

With its seafood shacks, quirky mainstays and a dizzying array of “must-try” restaurants from wunderkind chefs, Charleston has enjoyed a culinary hot streak for a decade. Many menus are built around Lowcountry dishes and seafood, but creative interpretations of old favorites keep the dining scene fresh. Beyond shrimp and grits, top regional fare includes oysters, pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes, she-crab soup, and a Lowcountry boil (shrimp, corn, potatoes, sausage and seasoning).

Tried-and-true stalwarts include Mike Lata’s FIG , oysters at the Ordinary and food that’s both fast & French at Gaulart & Maliclet . Barbecue is also hot, with Home Team BBQ and Lewis Barbecue getting consistent local kudos. Top-notch International options are plentiful too.

Immerse in Gullah Culture

Enslaved people brought from West Africa to the Lowcountry held onto many of their homeland traditions after slavery ended. The resulting Gullah culture (Geechee in Georgia) has its own language and traditions, including amazing storytelling, art and music. Learn their history at McLeod Plantation on James Island, where tours describe the daily lives of enslaved people on a cotton plantation and trace the emergence of the Gullah culture. Their culture is celebrated annually in late May at the Gullah Festival in nearby Beaufort. Gullah Tours visits historic sites in and around Charleston.

Sample locally sourced spirits

Sweet tea is a distinctly Southern beverage, and according to state lore the popular drink was created in South Carolina. The team at Firefly Distillery embraces this heritage with its sweet tea-flavored vodka, which is made with tea from the Charleston Tea Garden. High Wire Distilling uses ingredients and heirloom grains from across the Lowcountry and South Carolina for its popular spirits. Tastings are available at both distilleries. Tours are offered Thursday through Saturday art High Wire. 

Explore Historic Homes

The Historic Charleston Foundation protects historic buildings in the city and advocates for the preservation of gardens, parks and neighborhoods. The foundation manages two historic buildings: The Aiken-Rhett House and the Nathaniel Russell House. Tours of the former, a townhouse that has been preserved but not restored, share details about past owners as well as the enslaved people who worked there. A self-supporting spiral staircase anchors the Nathaniel Russell House, a meticulously restored 1808 Federal Style-house.

First Sumter National Monument

The shelling of Union-held Fort Sumter by Confederate forces in 1861 triggered the Civil War. The fort, which occupies a small pentagon-shaped island in Charleston Harbor, sees a steady stream of visitors, especially in summer. But even with the crowds, it’s easy to immerse in the chaotic confusion of that historic day thanks to the remote setting – a ferry ride is required – and an engaging ranger talk that spotlights the historic clash.

Walk the Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge

Burn off last night’s shrimp and grits with a power walk over the graceful Arthur J Ravenel Bridge, which links the town of Mount Pleasant and the Charleston Historic District. The 2.5-mile pedestrian path over the cable-stayed bridge rises about 200ft above the Cooper River and provides gorgeous views of both communities. There's a parking lot with access to the pedestrian path in Mount Pleasant. The view from the span is especially nice at sunset.

Tour the only tea garden in the US

Attempts to grow tea commercially in the US began in the 1820s in southeastern South Carolina, where the sandy soil, sub-tropical weather and frequent rainfall were well-suited for tea plants. In the 1960s wild tea plants from one of these early plantations were harvested and successfully re-planted on Wadmalaw Island 30 miles southwest of Charleston. Today Charleston Tea Garden offers tours of its tea factory (free) and trolley tours of its acres of hardy tea plants. 

Get out on the water

Flanked by creeks, marshes, rivers and the Atlantic Ocean, the Lowcountry is an ideal place for paddling trips and boat excursions. Wildlife and gorgeous coastal views abound. Keep it simple with a ride on the Charleston Water Taxi between Charleston and Mount Pleasant or scan for dolphins during the boat ride to Fort Sumter. Adventure Harbor Tours runs sunsets cruises and trips to uninhabited Morris Island. Numerous outfitters offer paddling trips through Shem Creek and Lowcountry creeks and marshes.

Wander the Gardens at Middleton Place

Designed in 1741, the elegant gardens at Middleton Place are the oldest landscaped gardens in America. Today they are also home to more than 100,000 azaleas. One of three historic plantations along the Ashley River northwest of downtown, Middleton Place owes its early beauty to the work of the enslaved people who spent years developing and maintaining the land. Their stories are shared onsite. Lowcountry fare is on the menu at the popular restaurant here.

Ride the Charleston Beer Trolley

A free trolley swings through the Charleston Beer District in downtown Charleston on Saturdays, stopping at ten breweries between 1pm and 9pm. You can visit them by hopping on and off. Revelry Brewery has a fire pit on its rooftop while Edmund’s Oast has 20 house-brewer beers on tap. Check the Charleston Brewery District Facebook page for the current trolley schedule.

Explore Mount Pleasant

For a break from the historic district, board a water taxi at Waterfront Park and cross the Cooper River to Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. At the Naval and Maritime Museum you can tour the USS Yorktown, an enormous decommissioned aircraft carrier used in WWII. You’ll need your car to visit Boone Hall Plantation and its striking Avenue of Oaks, planted in 1743. The most compelling buildings here are the original slave cabins. Explore charming Old Village then make your way to lovely Shem Creek for dinner by the water. Look for dolphins and party boats.

Find family fun Downtown

If your kids dig spooky attractions, it’s hard to get much creepier than the dungeon at the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon in the Historic District. The British held American patriots in the cramped space here during the Revolutionary War. The 385,000-gallon ocean tank and the sea turtle rehabilitation hospital lure in kids for a closer look at the South Carolina Aquarium . The Kidstory area at the Charleston Museum explores the city’s history with hands-on exhibits. Enormous skeletons of prehistoric creatures keep things real in the natural history gallery. For skateboarding, head to SK8 Charleston , a 32,000ft concrete skatepark in North Charleston.

Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum

In the heart of the Historic District, this small but hard-hitting museum occupies the site of a former open-air market that auctioned African Americans in the mid-1800s. Text-driven exhibits provide an unflinching look at the cruelties and horrors of the slave trade. Compelling oral histories from former enslaved people and a handful of chilling artifacts also make a powerful impression.

History Prep at the Charleston Museum

History hurtles at you from every direction in Charleston, which played a pivotal role in America’s past as a busy port city and center of trade. For a quick history primer, spend an hour or two in the Charleston Museum . Exhibits dedicated to the city’s early development and its role in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars provide helpful background and context. Artifacts highlight diverse experiences, including those of Native Americans, enslaved African Americans and influential politicians.

Sip Cocktails on a Rooftop Bar

Swanky rooftop bars with sweeping views of downtown are plentiful. They are also easy to find – just ride the elevator to the top of the trendiest hotels. Twinkling views of city lights and Charleston Harbor bring crowds to the iconic Rooftop Bar at the art-themed Vendue. You’ll find an infinity pool, illuminated umbrellas and more stunning city views at the Pavilion Bar atop the Market Pavilion Hotel.

Shopping on King Street

King Street is the historic district’s prime shopping corridor. With numerous stores selling home furnishings and housewares, Upper King is considered the design district while Middle King is the fashion district, home of well-known clothing stores as well as high-end boutiques. The southernmost stretch, Lower King, is dotted with antique stores. Pop into Blue Bicycle Books for new and used books, many with a focus on the South.

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The 28 Best Things To Do In Charleston, South Carolina

Good times and good eats abound in this beloved South Carolina city.

• Restaurants
• Get Outside

Given that Southern Living readers have named it The South’s Best City several times, Charleston, South Carolina, requires no introduction or persuasive arguments in its favor: The booming food scene, colorful historic homes, and waterfront views make the case for themselves. It’s easy to fill a long weekend itinerary here, and given that it’s nearly impossible to tackle everything on your “to eat” list in just a few days, the Holy City is a place you’ll want to plan a return trip or two . Here are our favorite restaurants, bars, shops , and experiences, from lauded, well-known picks to those that fly a bit further under the radar.

Check Some Restaurants Off Your Bucket List

Savor fresh shrimp at bowens island restaurant.

When it comes to dinner with a view, one place stands out as the finest (but still no-frills) place to eat local shrimp, and that's Bowens Island—a nearly 80-year-old family-owned restaurant perched in a few ramshackle structures on the river. Order a fried shrimp platter with hushpuppies and slaw, or go for the Frogmore Stew (for the uninitiated, that's a shrimp boil), a drool-worthy combination of boiled shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage.

bowensisland.com , 870 Bowens Island Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Settle In for Soul Food at Bertha’s Kitchen

The bright purple awning and teal blue facade of this James Beard Award winner (2017 America’s Classic) may be the first things that catch your eye, but it’s the red rice, chicken necks, and okra soup that’ll make it worth your while to join the line of hungry patrons that snakes from the counter register around the restaurant’s perimeter. 

facebook.com , 2332 Meeting Street Rd, Charleston, SC 29405

Try FIG’s Famous Tomato Tarte Tatin

Tourists may be quick to complain about summertime’s soupy humidity and mosquitoes, but locals know that the season’s arrival brings at least one welcome visitor: Chef Mike Lata’s Tomato Tarte Tatin. The dish, crowned with garlic confit and served alongside whipped goat cheese, typically appears on the menu in June and lingers until September or October—in other words, only when the local tomatoes are at their best. But even if your trip doesn’t fall in line with this window, FIG is still worth the reservation: the staff is gracious and knowledgeable, and the food is singularly memorable even in a town swamped with dining options.

eatatfig.com , 232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401 

Order a Plate of Fried Chicken at Leon’s

The worst kept secret in the city is a must-visit for first-timers. Few other places in town capture so well the relaxed ease that seems woven into Charleston’s very DNA. Housed in an old garage and outfitted with warm wooden tables and an art collection that feels like it was passed down from generation to generation until it landed here, Leon’s is the kind of place that feels like it’s always been part of the Charleston dining landscape—a triumph considering it’s a relative newcomer, opened in 2014. Fried chicken and oysters (raw and char-grilled) are the main draws on the menu, but don’t miss the scalloped potatoes either; it all pairs nicely with a bucket of Miller High Life ‘Ponies.’

leonsoystershop.com , 698 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

Tuck into a Thali at Ma’am Saab

Helmed by Chef Maryam Ghaznavi, this Pakistani spot celebrates inventive twists on storied dishes. At lunchtime, order the Signature Thali, a plate that Southerners might recognize as being akin to a meal at a meat-and-three; choose from creamy butter chicken, saag paneer (a vegetarian dish with spinach and cheese), curried chickpeas, and smoked ground beef. 

maamsaabchs.com, 251 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401 

Sample Chez Nous’ Changing Menu 

Nestled in an historic house on a hidden away street, you likely wouldn’t just happen upon this neighborhood eatery that feels like a mini escape to Europe, and that’s half the charm. The cozy atmosphere is elevated but inviting, and the handwritten menu of seasonally driven dishes changes daily. It’s fortunate, too, that the options are so few (two appetizers, two mains, two desserts), as you’ve got a good excuse to order one of each.

cheznouschs.com , 6 Payne Court, Charleston, SC 29403

Save Room for a Slice of Cake

While Peninsula Grill could claim many of their dishes as “worth traveling for,” the fine dining establishment is best known for its Ultimate Coconut Cake, a 12-layer confection stuffed with cream cheese icing, coated in toasted coconut, and topped with strawberries. 

peninsulagrill.com; 112 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401

Learn About The City’s History Firsthand

Spend an afternoon at the international african american museum (iaam).

Opened in June 2023 and positioned on what was once Gadsden’s Wharf (the arrival site around 40% of all enslaved people in North America), the IAAM houses 12 permanent exhibitions and a Special Exhibitions gallery, which explore a wide range of topics, from the Gullah Geechee peoples in South Carolina and Georgia to the African Diaspora’s impact on the U.S. at large. The museum is also home to the Center for Family History, where visitors can use on-site resources to discover their own families’ stories. Carve out time to explore the African Ancestors Memorial Garden below the building, as well; it’s free and open to the public.

iaamuseum.org , 14 Wharfside St, Charleston, SC 29401

Squeeze In Multiple Sites with a Walking Tour

There’s no better way to experience Charleston than by strolling its streets with someone who’s both well-versed in its history—including the “historic gossip” that makes learning about the past especially exciting—and has a pulse on what’s current. You’ll find just that with Walk and Talk Charleston. Helmed by hat-wearing founder, “Lid Lady” Tyler Page Wright Friedman, the company offers a variety of educational experiences, from their “Classic Charleston History and Historic Gossip Tour” to “The Real Rainbow Row Tour,” which chronicles the city’s LGBTQ+ history.

walkandtalkchs.com

Take the Ferry to Fort Sumter

For history buffs, a visit to Fort Sumter —the place where the Civil War began—is a must. On April 12, 1861, Confederate troops fired on this then-Union-held fort, launching the four-year war. Today, Fort Sumter is a national park and designated historic and commemorative site with a museum. Positioned in the middle of Charleston Harbor, the only way to reach it is via a tour boat, which can be booked through Fort Sumter Tours. Opt for the day’s first time slot for a chance to help the park rangers raise the U.S. flag over the fort. 

fortsumtertours.com

Visit the Aiken-Rhett House Museum

Built in 1820, the Aiken-Rhett House is today considered one of the best-preserved townhouse complexes in the country. Rather than restoring the home upon acquiring it in 1995, the Historic Charleston Foundation took a preserved-as-found approach, which means the furniture, finishes, and architecture on site haven’t been changed since the mid-19th century. Perhaps most unique to the site is that the quarters in which enslaved people lived were also left essentially untouched, offering a more comprehensive look into life in antebellum Charleston. You can move through the museum with a guide or opt for a self-guided tour with the Historic Charleston Foundation’s free app.

historiccharleston.org , 48 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403

Step Aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown

Visit WWII’s “Fighting Lady,” a decorated aircraft carrier that also served in the Vietnam War and recovered the astronauts and capsule from the Apollo 8’s spaceflight (the first with humans to reach the moon). For a truly immersive experience, book a one- or two-night stay aboard the ship through the Yorktown’s Operation Overnight program.

patriotspoint.org, 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 

Toast Your Travels With Delicious Drinks

Pair your cocktail with a view.

Formerly a federal building, circa-1964 The Dewberry is now one of the city’s most lauded boutique hotels. Even if a stay here isn’t in the cards, reserve a table at Citrus Club on the hotel’s 8th floor terrace for a light lunch and tasty drinks with a prime view of the city. Looking to make a scene? Order the Tropical Itch, a rum-and-bourbon concoction garnished with a back scratcher. 

thedewberrycharleston.com; 334 Meeting St, Charleston, SC, 29403

Discover New-to-You Wines 

Whether you’re committed to a grocery store Pinot Grigio or you’re always on the hunt for the next best thing, Femi Oyediran and Miles White, sommeliers and co-owners of Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar, can school you in the latest and greatest glass. At this neighborhood spot, you’re sure to find good wine and good music and be welcomed like a local.

graftchs.com , 700b King Street, Charleston, SC 29403

Sip a Poolside Paloma at Little Palm

Revel in the delightfully retro atmosphere of The Ryder hotel’s poolside bar and café, which is awash in peach and pistachio hues. We’re suckers for Little Palm’s playful cocktail names, like the “Extra Leg Room,” made with gin and oolong tea soda, and the “Offshore Accounts,” which features three different spirits.

littlepalmbar.com ; 237 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

Sample Edmunds Oast’s Local Brews

Check out the city’s craft beer scene with a stop at Edmund’s Oast, a local brewery that churns out dozens of ales, from classic blondes to fruity sours. Choose from two locations: the original “fine casual” restaurant and cocktail bar on Morrison, or the production brewery and taproom on King, where they’ve always got 20 house-brewed beers on tap. 

edmundsoast.com ; 1081 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403 and 1505 King St #115, Charleston, SC 29405

Have a Nightcap at Félix

If you’re hoping for an early A.M. drink without venturing to a dive, Félix Cocktails et Cuisine is the move. Sink into a leather-wrapped banquette at this Paris-inspired bistro and end your evening with a Félix Royale, a draft cocktail crafted with local gin, lime juice, and sparkling wine.

felixchs.com , 550 King St #100, Charleston, SC 29403

Revel In the City’s Arts Scene

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Catch a Show at America’s First Theater

The Dock Street Theater originally opened in Charleston’s French Quarter in 1736, the first building constructed exclusively for theater performances. After the city’s Great Fire, which wiped out the original building, the theater was rebuilt in 1809 as a hotel and didn’t serve as a performing arts center again until 1937, after an extensive renovation. Today, the Dock Street Theater is an inspired venue to see a musical or play; the theater’s resident professional company, Charleston Stage, offers more than 100 performances each year. 

charlestonstage.com ; 135 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401

Peruse the Collection at the Gibbes Museum of Art

Opened in 1905, the city’s historic art museum is home to more than 7,000 pieces in various mediums which date from the colonial era to present. Don’t miss the Mary Jackson Modern and Contemporary Gallery (part of the museum’s permanent collection), which is named for the famous Charleston sweetgrass basket artist and features pieces by artists native to the area or who have spent time here, as well as those who have created works that present a compelling and honest portrait of South. 

gibbesmuseum.org , 135 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

Pop Into the Local Galleries

With more than 40 galleries in the area, the Holy City has no shortage of places to connect with local artists and peruse their works. Time your trip with the first weekend of the month and join the Charleston Gallery Association for its First Friday Artwalk, when local galleries keep their doors open after hours for a convivial celebration of Charleston’s arts community.

charlestongalleryassociation.com

Mark Your Calendar for Spoleto

While the local arts scene never sleeps, Spoleto Festival USA is an especially exhilarating time for local arts lovers and visitors. Each spring, for more than two weeks, the city plays host to one of the country’s most impressive arts festivals, in which renowned and up-and-coming musicians, singers, dancers, actors, and other artists descend upon Charleston for a series of memorable performances, exhibitions, and shows. 

spoletousa.org

Shop for A Memorable Souvenir

Find a sweetgrass basket at the charleston city market.

One of the oldest markets in the country, Charleston City Market runs the length of four blocks in the heart of downtown, anchored by the Great Hall on Meeting Street with a series of one-story sheds that continue until you reach East Bay. Here, you can shop for a wide variety of souvenirs (there are some 300 vendors), but the real treasures here are sweetgrass baskets, which are hand-woven by Gullah artists, many of whom learned to weave from the generations before them.

thecharlestoncitymarket.com , 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

Browse New and Antique Pieces at Croghan’s Jewel Box

A go-to destination for finding meaningful, heirloom-worthy gifts, this century-old shop on King Street is helmed by the third and fourth generations of the same family. Beyond curating an incredible assortment of new and estate jewelry and silver, they also carry the Goldbug Collection , a cheeky, more approachable line of pieces designed in-house and inspired by the city.

croghansjewelbox.com ; 308 King St, Charleston, SC 29401

Try the Latest Trend at The Tiny Tassel 

With “Live colorfully!” for her motto, it’s little wonder that founder Mimi Striplin’s shop in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood is filled with jewelry, accessories, and clothing that give Rainbow Row a run for its money. Named for the brand’s signature tassel earrings, the brand (led by Striplin and her lead designer mom, Keiko) releases a new collection each season, so you’re sure to find something unique every time you shop. 

thetinytassel.com ; 46 Spring St Unit B, Charleston, SC 29403 

Explore Artisan-Made Luxury Goods at Ibu Movement’s Showroom

Founded by former minister Susan Hull Walker in 2014, this organization partners with women artisans in 40 countries, empowering them with living wages that enable them to move towards financial independence and provide for their families. Ibu’s cozy shop on King Street peddles an assortment of their beautifully crafted goods, from raffia handbags made in Colombia to silk-and-cotton dresses made in Uzbekistan.

ibumovement.com , 183 King St 2nd Floor, Charleston, SC 29401

Play Outside

Stroll the arthur ravenel jr. bridge.

The two-and-a-half mile cable-stayed crossing between downtown Charleston and the suburb of Mount Pleasant is a scenic place to break a sweat. Climb the hilly spans on the protected pedestrian path, and stop at the top to catch your breath and score a bird’s-eye view of the sparkling Cooper River and downtown Charleston, including the many steeples that earned the place its Holy City moniker.

Look for Sharks’ Teeth at Melton Peter Demetre Park

Only a few miles from downtown, James Island is largely residential without downtown’s draws for tourists. For a true locals-only experience, head to the city-owned waterfront spot , where you can hunt for sharks’ teeth with panoramic views of downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant or cast a line off the 190-foot fishing pier.

charleston-sc.gov ; 640 Wampler Drive, Charleston, SC 29412

Enjoy a Beach Day

Make the short drive to Sullivan’s Island , a small barrier island ten miles from downtown Charleston. There’s not a trace of touristy kitsch in this bitty beach town, where historic homes line oak-shaded streets and storybook cottages invite passersby to stop and smell rose-wrapped trellises. Up for dinner and a show? Pick up a pizza from The Obstinate Daughter and take it to the sand for a sunset picnic.

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Top Things to Do

The 17 Best Things to Do in Charleston

 Danita Delimont/Getty Images

Frequently ranked as one of America's best places to visit, Charleston, South Carolina , is a top destination for its temperate climate, coastal locale, friendly charm, and wealth of activities for the whole family. From world-class dining and historic sites to museums, and shopping, the Holy City and the surrounding area offer plenty of things to do for a short weekend or an extended stay.

Whether you're planning your first visit to Charleston or a repeat visitor, here are the top 17 things to do in Charleston.

Take a Walking Tour of the Historic District

thepixelchef/Getty Images

Sure, you can explore popular historic district sites like Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row, and the Battery on your own. But why not take advantage of the city's free, two-hour guided walking tour to learn about Charleston's past and present from the pros? Tour options range from Civil War history to architectural landmarks to the always popular night-time ghost tour for supernatural enthusiasts.

Discover Lowcountry Cuisine

TripSavvy / Anna Haines 

Long known as a top destination for classic Southern favorites like shrimp and grits and regional Lowcountry specialties like Frogmore Stew, Charleston is a food lover's paradise . Eat dinner at the pioneering Husk , which merges fine dining with seasonal, regionally-sourced ingredients. Later, try Bertha's Kitchen or the family-run Hannibal's Kitchen for soul food like collard greens and fried chicken.

Attend Spoleto Festival USA

Charleston offers visitors a variety of annual festivals and special events, none more famous than Spoleto Festival USA. Running annually from Memorial Day weekend through early June, Spoleto hosts more than 150 performances ranging from jazz and dance to opera and theatre in churches, parks, performing halls, and other venues throughout the city. Its companion festival, Piccolo Spoleto , features free and low-cost offerings from local and regional artists.

Discover Charleston's Museum Mile

Charleston's Museum Mile runs along a one-mile section of Meeting Street, beginning at the Charleston Visitor Center downtown. This easily walkable route includes six museums like the Charleston Museum and The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry, plus historic homes, picturesque parks, and notable churches and buildings. Ticket packages can be purchased online or at the Charleston Visitor Center.

Walk Along the Historic Charleston Battery

No trip to the city is complete without a stroll along The Battery , located at the southern end of the Charleston peninsula where the Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet. Points of interest include Charleston's grandest historic homes, displays of Civil War artillery, the scenic White Point Gardens shaded by majestic live oak trees, and views of Charleston Harbor—perfect for packing a picnic and watching the sunset.

Explore the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

To learn about the city's role in naval history, explore Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. In the northern suburb of Mount Pleasant, Patriots Point is home to three former ships-turned-museums: the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, the destroyer USS Laffey, and a submarine, USS Clamagore. The complex also includes the Medal of Honor Museum, the Cold War Submarine Memorial, and the Vietnam Naval Support Base exhibit, the only one of its kind in the United States. ​

Visit the South Carolina Aquarium

Courtesy of South Carolina Aquarium

Located along the Charleston Harbor, the South Carolina Aquarium is home to more than ten thousand plants and animals like river otters, loggerhead sea turtles, horseshoe crabs, sharks, sea urchins, and ocean fish. Exhibits cover the state's habitats from the mountain forests of Appalachia to the coastal plain, and highlights include the Touch Tank—where visitors can feel hermit crabs and Atlantic stingrays—and the two-story, 385,000-gallon Ocean Tank, the largest in North America.

Buy Local Produce and Crafts at the Charleston Farmers Market

Consistently ranked one of the top farmers' markets in the country, the Charleston Farmer's Market takes place Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., April through November, at Marion Square in the historic district. The market includes more than one hundred vendors selling everything from fresh produce to cut flowers to artisan jewelry, plus frequent live music and food trucks dishing up breakfast sandwiches and Lowcountry boil. Don't miss the special Holiday Market on select Saturdays and Sundays in December.

Tour Historic Homes

From the Georgian-inspired Heyward-Washington House on Church Street to the stately 18 th -century Aiken-Rhett House Museum on Elizabeth Street, Charleston is full of elegant, well-preserved historic homes that retain original furnishings, wallpaper, and other decorative details. Many of them are open to the public year-round, while the Preservation Society of Charleston offers self-guided tours of additional homes and gardens each fall from late September through late October.

Stroll and Shop Historic King Street

  SeanXu /Getty Images

Once the city's main thoroughfare, historic King Street bisects the peninsula from north to south. Its colorful buildings house restaurants, bars, and shops; stores range from national retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue and Anthropologie to local purveyors like Croghan's Jewel Box, Robert Lange Studios art gallery, Blue Bicycle Books, and Hampden Clothing.

Sample Local Beer and Spirits

With more than 30 local breweries and distilleries, craft beer and spirits are a booming industry in Charleston. Visit taprooms like Charleston Distilling Co., Fatty's Beer Works, Highwire Distilling, and Holy City Brewing on your own. Or, book a four-and-a-half-hour tasting tour with Crafted Travel to sample beer and spirits at three different spots for $84.

Take a Boat Tour

ehrlif /Getty Images 

Some of the best views of this coastal city are from the water, so hop on board the Morris Island Boat Tour with Adventure Harbor Tours. The three-hour excursion includes sightings of some of Charleston's most notable landmarks, such as the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge, the Battery, Fort Sumter, and Waterfront Park. You'll also get to stop at nearby Morris Island, an undeveloped barrier island teeming with wildlife and unspoiled beauty. During the 90-minute walking tour, you'll learn about the tides and the island's history, the ecology of barrier islands and marshland, and search for treasures like shark teeth and shells. You may even spot a dolphin or two!

Visit Nearby Edisto Island

 Cavan Images/Getty Images

While the Charleston area offers plenty of beaches, this sea island just 45 miles southwest of the city is less commercially developed than its peers and provides a more low-key coastal experience. Learn about the area's history at the Edisto Island Museum ; hike or bike the trails at the oceanfront Edisto Beach State Park ; and visit snakes, frogs, alligators, iguanas, and other reptiles at the Edisto Island Serpentarium .

Get Up Close with History at Fort Sumter

Photo Italia LLC /Getty Images

Originally built as one of a series of fortifications on the Southern coast after the War of 1812, Fort Sumter is where Confederate forces first fired shots at the Union Army, thus starting the Civil War. Catch a ferry from Liberty Square Visitors Center or Patriots Point to the small island in Charleston Harbor, now part of the National Park Service. The site includes a small museum and a self-guided tour for visitors to explore the historic structure.

Go on an ArtWalk

The city's more than 40 downtown art galleries open their doors to the public as part of the Charleston Gallery Association's monthly ArtWalk series. Typically held on the third Thursday of each month, participating galleries, local boutiques, and restaurants stay open late, offering wine, snacks, and plenty of time for shopping and browsing.

Take a Picture with the Angel Oak Tree

Daniela Duncan /Getty Images 

For your trip's most Instagram-worthy snap, head to nearby John's Island for photos with the famed Angel Oak Tree. At more than 400 years old, 65 feet high, and 25 feet wide, the tree is the largest live oak east of the Mississippi River. It's located down a long dirt road inside Angel Oak Park.

Tour Historic Graveyards and Cemeteries

 Daniela Duncan/Getty Images

Dubbed the "Holy City" due to its proliferation of church spires, many of these historic houses of worship have on-site gravesites and cemeteries open to the public. At St. Philip's on Church Street, you'll find the final resting place of DuBose Heyward, whose novel Porgy inspired the George Gershwin opera "Porgy and Bess." Nearby, two signers of the American Constitution—John Rutledge and Charles Cotesworth Pinckney—are buried at St. Michael's, the city's oldest church.

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Charleston's Historic Architecture

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Charleston (South Carolina)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 12, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

South Carolina’s most beautiful, as well as its biggest and more historic city, Charleston is one of the top vacation spots in the entire American south.

Although Charleston isn’t officially the capital of South Carolina, locals and millions of tourists who visit every year agree that this picturesque city holds the top spot as a keeper of the state’s history, entertainment, culture, and art.

You can go back in time when you enter Charleston as its past is home to American settlement, the dark ages of slavery, and the Civil War.

While ancient plantations and beautiful museums are often peppered with humbled history lovers, adrenaline junkies, foodies, and party lovers find their peace rejoicing numerous thrill-filled water sports, delicious foods, and exciting nightlife!

Rightly termed as a vibrant cultural hub by residents and tourists, Charleston boasts exciting activities suitable for all kinds of tourists.

This city is a combination of the fast-pace of a big city and the southern hospitality associated with the surrounding area.

Table of Contents

1. The Battery

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Checking out The Battery is one of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

It has nothing to do with electronic devices, as this peninsula goes back to the Civil War days.

This is one of the most beautiful Charleston attractions and is great for a family outing.

The history of The Battery makes it one of the best things to see in Charleston, South Carolina.

Originally for the artillery battery that was once posted here, it’s since become a wonderful promenade.

Visitors love going for strolls along this land and seeing the beautiful homes.

White Point Garden is an amazing part of The Battery, with lots of reverence paid towards military heroes.

If you’re looking to recharge, you need to come to The Battery.

It’s amazing how it’s evolved from defense means to a phenomenal place for socializing and relaxation.

A visit to the Battery is something you must do when in Charleston.

Address: East Battery & Murray Blvd., Charleston, SC 29401, USA

2. Zero George

Zero George

There are numerous reasons to check out Zero George , which is one of the best boutique hotels in the south.

At this Charleston, South Carolina attraction, you can experience lots of fun activities and be amazed by the striking beauty of your environment.

This isn’t just a place for sleeping in between sightseeing.

There’s lots of fun stuff to do at Zero George, such as cooking classes and attending art shows.

The Zero Restaurant + Bar is the optimal place for having a romantic meal.

If you need things to be modified in any way, the staff will be happy to cater to your whims.

Should you be staying in downtown Charleston and really want to live it up, you should book a room at Zero George.

This is definitely one of the top 10 hotels in Charleston, South Carolina.

You’ll quickly see why it’s among the best places to go for people who are serious about having excellent lodging experiences.

Address:  0 George St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

3. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Jack Nevitt / Shutterstock

One of the top things to do in Charleston, South Carolina is to go to the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens .

A Charleston institution that goes back to 1676, Magnolia Plantations & Gardens offers lovely scenery and plant life and much more.

Coming here might be the best history lesson you have during your entire trip.

The gardens are definitely key in this being one of the best tourist attractions in Charleston, South Carolina.

For over 300 years, one family has been operating these gardens.

The opulent colors of flowers like daffodils stand out even more when you consider how storied the history of these gardens is.

At Magnolia Plantations & Gardens, you can see one of the most important points of interest in South Carolina.

Hours for this Charleston attraction can vary based on what time of year it is.

For general garden admission, it’s $20 for adults and $10 for children, ages six to 12.

Address:  3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

4. King Street

meunierd / Shutterstock

There’s a lot of things to do in downtown Charleston, but your best bet for where to roam around is King Street.

This has become a beloved part of Charleston, South Carolina for denizens and visitors to experience all kinds of entertainment.

When you’re looking to have fun in Charleston, King Street is a great choice.

With over three centuries of history, King Street is one of the most important places to visit in this city.

It’s lots of fun to go to specific attractions or just brace yourself for whatever might come your way.

It’s also worth reading up on King Street’s history, as it experienced serious trouble as a result of the Civil War.

However, the mid-20th century and on has been very good to King Street.

The great sights of King Street are numerous and there are many unique things to do.

It’s been through some rough times, but it’s come out stronger than ever.

When you’re looking for fun things to do in Charleston, South Carolina, King Street needs to be a priority.

5. Charleston Farmers Market

Jeramey Lende / Shutterstock

One of the best shopping activities in any worthwhile city is going to its farmers market.

The Charleston Farmers Market is one of the top ones in the south.

You can come to Marion Square at downtown Charleston and pick up some of the most scrumptious produce you’ve ever come across.

Goin to the Charleston Farmers Market is what to do if you want to see how wonderful this city is.

Beyond buying great produce, you can also find fantastic flowers and see some lovely live performances.

On Saturdays, Marion Square becomes something of a city-within-a-city.

You haven’t fully experienced Charleston, South Carolina until you’ve been to the farmers market.

It’s so much fun to explore the market grounds and accumulate more shopping bags.

The Charleston Farmers Market is open on Saturdays from April to November from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Address:  329 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

Going on a road trip around South Carolina? Don’t miss our lists of things to do in Greenville, SC  & things to do in Columbia, SC !

6. John Pope Antiques

John Pope Antiques

Antiquing isn’t just something your grandmother does.

One of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina is to go to John Pope Antiques.

This is an excellent antique shop full of cool items.

Operated by the eponymous John Pope, this shop is located on King Street.

His collection includes many great decorative items, such as chandeliers.

They might be older pieces, but they can feel new and wonderful when you bring them home.

Coming to John Pope Antiques is one of the most unexpectedly enjoyable activities in Charleston, South Carolina.

If you’re looking for a great entryway to the past, coming to John Pope Antiques is one of the best activities available.

The curation and Pope’s expertise alone should draw you in.

Address:  180 King St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

7. Waterfront Park

Possessing a very apt name, Waterfront Park is a great South Carolina attraction for experiencing wonder on land and sea.

You can come to Waterfront Park full of energy or feeling fairly mellow and end up satisfied either way.

This park makes a great case for Charleston as one of the most beautiful places in USA .

Providing great visual access to the Charleston Harbor, Waterfront Park is one of the top places in Charleston for just sitting back and seeing boats go by.

One of the most exciting attractions is the pineapple fountain, which might have you salivating for a tropical treat.

You can also spot pelicans hanging by the piers or flying.

Waterfront Park is something you must see if you want proof of how impressive a park can be.

One of the most amazing places to visit in South Carolina , Waterfront Park continues to engage and delight visitors.

It’s open every day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

8. Sullivan’s Island

Henryk Sadura / Shutterstock

One of the most beautiful natural tourist attractions in Charleston, South Carolina is Sullivan’s Island .

If you’re looking for things to do in Charleston this weekend, you should come here with your family.

Sullivan’s Island is an area outside of the city that offers plenty of amazing sights.

Fairly small, at a little over three square miles in area, Sullivan’s Island is nonetheless one of the most engrossing places to visit in the whole south.

One of the greatest lighthouses in the country is the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse.

You also need to spend some quality time on the beach, doing things like building sandcastles or fishing.

Going to Sullivan’s Island is one of the most fun things to do in Charleston.

If you’re curious about how to plan a vacation to Charleston, South Carolina, Sullivan’s Island is a great thing to put on your list.

Coming here is what to do if you want to be beside the water and beside your loved ones.

TIm J. Nichols / Shutterstock

Charleston, South Carolina is one of the top food cities in the entire south, and Husk is one of the best restaurants in the city.

This beloved eatery takes the beauty of southern cooking and mixes it with some serious sophistication.

You’ll be having a meal that’s both hearty and complex.

Chef Sean Brock has put together one of the most intriguing menus of any restaurant in Charleston.

While the options can change, you can be assured that there’s always going to be great things available.

Some items that have been served at Husk include cornmeal-dusted catfish and southern-fried chicken skins.

Going to Husk is what to do in Charleston if you want to see how unique southern cooking can be.

It’s one of the best things to do in Charleston when you’re looking for a place o eat with your partner.

Address:  76 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

10. South Carolina Aquarium

Daniel M. Silva / Shutterstock

One of the most fun things to do in Charleston is to go to the South Carolina Aquarium .

The marine life of the city can be appreciated even more here, one of the best Charleston attractions.

If you’re looking for places in South Carolina that teach you a lot about fish and other species, you should come here.

Lots of amazing species can be observed at the South Carolina Aquarium, and the staff does an excellent job of making sure they’re as comfortable as possible.

If you’re traveling with your kids, they’ll love being able to see animals like otters and sharks.

Exhibits like “The Shallows” and “Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery” give even more awareness of the importance of marine life preservation.

For family entertainment activities in Charleston, you should come to the South Carolina Aquarium.

It’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $29.95 for adults and $22.95 for children, ages three to 12.

Address:  100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

Visiting other areas of South Carolina? Why not check out some of the things to do in Myrtle Beach  & some of the things to do in Hilton Head ?

11. Charleston Tea Plantation

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Wadmalaw Island’s sole tea plantation, Charleston Tea Plantation is one of the best places to visit in Charleston for seeing how an amazing plant is cultivated.

Even if you prefer coffee as your hot beverage of choice, the Charleston Tea Plantation is still among the top points of interest in the city.

Located a short distance south from the city proper, Charleston Tea Plantation is a sight to behold.

You’ll also want to keep your ears open, as there are lots of cool details to take in about how the tea is produced.

What was once a potato farm has become one of the premier tea producers in the world.

You can have one of your best experiences in Charleston at the Charleston Tea Plantation.

Its operating hours are from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m to 4 p.m.

The factory tours are free while the trolley tours are paid experiences.

During the week, you can go with a group on the more expensive and more informative Bill Hall Exclusive Tour.

Address:  6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, United States

12. French Quarter Inn

French Quarter Inn

If you’ve been in serious need of a vacation and want to be pampered to your heart’s content, then staying at the French Quarter Inn in Charleston is what to do.

Charleston is one of the best vacation spots in the south for its amazing hotels alone.

You can have a lot of fun here and gain a great deal of appreciation towards how much the staff puts into giving guests a wonderful time.

At this downtown Charleston hotel, you can feel like you’re in a modern-day fairytale.

This is a hotel to stay at if you seek a more personal experience.

It’s not a very big hotel, so you should secure your room as early as you can.

Among the great amenities are bicycles that you’re allowed to take out and multiple varieties of pillows for your relaxation needs.

The French Quarter Inn has become one of the top places to lodge in Charleston.

It’s so great, you might have trouble pulling yourself away from your room or the hotel grounds.

Hospitality is at its best when you’re boarding at the French Quarter Inn.

Address:  166 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

13. Charleston Music Hall

Edith Howle / flickr

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.

Look at the venue’s schedule for this weekend.

Hopefully, you’ll be able to experience a great show at one of Charleston’s best venues.

Address:  37 John St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

14. Charleston Museum

Wally Gobetz / flickr

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 “Kidstory,” 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.

It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for youths, ages 13 to 17, and $5 for children, ages 3 to 12.

Address:  360 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

15. Hampden Clothing

Hampden Clothing

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.

Hampden Clothing is what to see if you desire to look and feel your best.

It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  314 King St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

16. Charleston Culinary Tours

Charleston Culinary Tours

If you’re coming to Charleston this weekend, you should be coming with a sizable appetite, as one of the most fun options for making your way around Charleston is by going on a Charleston Culinary Tours .

These dining trips let you see how great the food options are in Charleston.

With five to choose from, you can explore this city’s culinary diversity.

Tours tend to last a few hours, but you’ll likely be having so much fun, it can feel like the time is going by much faster.

You can take tours of downtown, King Street, or perhaps go on a “Sustainable Seafood” tour.

If you want to try some great drinks, there are brewery tours as well as a mixology tour.

Charleston Culinary Tours are of the most cool things to experience in this city.

As you go around the city, you’ll remember that eating is as much about pleasure as it is about necessity.

Be sure to book your spot on any of these tours right away.

17. Middleton Place

Adam Skonn / Shutterstock

Many great plantations are available for visiting in Charleston.

Middleton Place should be near the top of your list if you want to see multiple ones.

This is a gorgeous complex that showcases the unquestionable southern beauty of the city.

The original Middleton Place was largely torched near the Civil War’s conclusion, and the Great Earthquake caused further destruction.

What exists now is the Southern Flanker’s House Museum, which serves to educate on how people at Middleton Place lived, including slaves, astounding gardens, a great restaurant and shops, and more.

You’ll step out of the present and into the wonders of the past when you’re here.

Middleton Place is one of the most important places to see in Charleston for gaining historical awareness.

It operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $29 for adults, $15 for students, and $10 for children, ages six to 13.

Address:  4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

18. The Darling Oyster Bar

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There’s nothing fishy about wanting to go the Darling Oyster Bar .

This is one of the top things to see for seafood lovers.

Situated on Kings Street, the Darling Oyster Bar provides your tastebuds with so many great flavors from so many great species.

The Darling Oyster Bar has become one of the top seafood restaurants today because of how dynamic the menu is.

When you eating at the Darling Oyster Bar, you’re refueling your body and treating your mind by giving it access to so much goodness.

If you’re ever near Kings Street and get a seafood craving going, make sure to make your way to the Darling Oyster Bar as soon as possible.

It’s open from Monday to Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  513 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

19. McCrady’s Restaurant

McCrady’s Restaurant

It can be pretty impressive when you go to a restaurant that’s 50-100 years old, but McCrady’s Restaurant is more than 200 years old.

It’s definitely earned its place in the American culinary pantheon, with a fantastic menu and terrific service.

One of the best things to see and do in Charleston is to take in a meal at McCrady’s Restaurant.

Situated on Unity Alley in downtown Charleston, McCrady’s Restaurant doesn’t just skate by on a historic reputation.

It also has a very impressive menu, with some of the most delicious duck, mahi mahi, and scallops you’ve tried.

Lots of great wines and other drinks can be paired with your meal.

There are so many great historic things to see in this city, and McCrady’s Restaurant makes things even better by being a top-notch place to eat as well.

Your sightseeing downtown can culminate in getting a meal here.

McGrady’s Restaurant is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  155 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

20. Magnolia Cemetery

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A visit to Magnolia Cemetery is a very important experience if you want a window to the past.

This Charleston burial place pays homage to those have gone before us, many who lived more than a century ago.

It’s also a gorgeously-designed space, which helps to illustrate the mysterious beauty of death.

Magnolia Cemetery was first constructed in 1850 and lies close to the Cooper River.

Although it’s a very solemn space, the artistic decor brightens it up.

If you’re a Civil War buff, you should see the area where many Confederate soldiers were laid to rest.

Going to Magnolia Cemetery can be both a sightseeing experience as well as a poignant lesson on the preciousness of life.

It’s what to see for anyone who cares about uncovering knowledge about the past.

Magnolia Cemetery is open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address: 70 Cunnington Ave, Charleston, SC 29405, USA

Exploring other parts of South Carolina? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Beaufort, SC ?

21. The Dewberry

The Dewberry

Constructed in the 1960s, The Dewberry is a more recent but no less impressive example of a historic building in Charleston.

Another prestigious hotel, The Dewberry offers guest amenities that can make them feel so very cared for.

For fun and luxury, come to The Dewberry.

The rooms at The Dewberry are set up with comfort in mind.

Every room is furnished with your own bathrobe and slippers and beds fitted with lush Irish linens.

Rooms you can choose include Charleston Flats, One-Bedroom Suites, and Grand Kings.

Going to sleep at night and waking up in the morning are both great when you’re staying at The Dewberry.

If you want your Charleston experience to be one you always hold dear, you should book a room here.

Should you be looking to honeymoon in Charleston and want to find the right hotel, The Dewberry should definitely be in consideration.

Address:  334 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

22. Calhoun Mansion

SHoener / Shutterstock

Seeing historic residences like the Calhoun Mansion is one of the coolest parts of touring any city.

This is the biggest personal residence in all of Charleston.

With 35-rooms, Calhoun Mansion is a seriously impressive piece of Charleston history.

This mansion was first constructed in 1876 by the influential George Walton Williams.

Although it was once of the most cherished buildings in the south, it underwent serious decay.

However, a multi-million dollar restoration process was able to give it the dignity it deserved.

Exploring the halls and rooms of Calhoun Mansion is one of the greatest sources of entertainment in all of Charleston.

It’s open every day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $17 for scheduled tours, except for children age 11 and younger, who get in for free.

Address:  16 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

23. Upper King Design District

Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock

The Upper King Design District is one of the most fun neighborhoods in Charleston.

The attractions here are quite lovely, with many great shops and places to eat.

At night and in the daytime, the Upper King Design District offers visitors lots of plusses.

Businesses in this district are seriously posh.

A date night through the Upper King District lets you act like a celebrity for an evening.

You can witness thoughtful artwork at The Southern Gallery, get some food at The Macintosh, and end your evening with a drink at Palmetto Brewing Co.

If you’re ever in or near Charleston and want to find a place that rewards a cultured mindset, you should come to the Upper King Design District.

You can scoop up items that would be absolutely perfect for your home or for a loved one.

All the while, you can have lots of fun just exploring the grounds.

Address:  387 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

24. Croghan’s Jewel Box

Croghan’s Jewel Box

A fine piece of jewelry can take an outfit from great to stunning, and Croghan’s Jewel Box is the place to be for finding this finishing touch.

Located on King Street, this jewelry shop has been around for more than 100 years.

As you browse the various items, you’ll understand why it’s become such a hallowed part of Charleston.

Since being founded by William Joseph Croghan, Croghan’s Jewel Box has gotten bigger in both store size and legacy.

The items here are the real deal, both in terms of composition and how pleasing the aesthetics are.

You can collect things made of gold, diamond, and ruby.

Jewels are a go-to analogy for when something is beautiful and unique, and Croghan’s Jewel Box shows you why.

This is a marvelous store for marvelous people to find marvelous things.

Croghan’s Jewel Box is open from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  308 King St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

25. The Ordinary

The Ordinary

If there was ever a restaurant that could be accused of false modesty, it’s The Ordinary .

This is one of the best places to enjoy seafood in Charleston today.

Catch a table at The Ordinary and get ready to have a sublime meal.

When you come into The Ordinary, you should be impressed by the impossibly-high ceilings and its gorgeous oyster bar.

The menu is also broken down into cold dishes, such as pickled roe shrimp, and hot ones, such as Caribbean fish stew.

If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can order caviar service.

The Ordinary is one of the best places to visit at night in Charleston for a great meal.

You can have a lot of fun sampling all of the different items and perhaps trying seafood you’ve never had before.

This restaurant is open from Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Address:  544 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

26. Poe’s Tavern

Wilmington and Beaches CVB / flickr

You might not think of Edgar Allan Poe when you consider famous Charleston residents.

However, the legendary poet was once a poet living on Sullivan’s Island.

Today, the island honors his legacy with Poe’s Tavern , a great place to have a drink and a hearty bite to eat.

Poe’s Tavern has the kind of menu that might cause you to forget your diet momentarily.

Perhaps the biggest attraction are the Angus Chuck burgers, which tip the scales at half-a-pound.

Some items have playful Poe-inspired names such as “Annabel Lee” and “Pit & Pendulum.”

Other treats include fish tacos and quesadillas.

If you’re a fan of “The Raven” who’s craving some excellent food and drink, you should come to Poe’s Tavern.

Poe himself would hopefully feel touched that his name had been attributed to such a good restaurant.

Poe’s Tavern is open from Monday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Address:  2210 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482, United States

27. Drayton Hall

Karel Tatransky / Shutterstock

Another remarkable plantation to tour is Drayton Hall .

Situated in Charleston’s “Low Country,” Drayton Hall endured through wars to become one of the most monumental pieces of Charleston history.

There’s also the Palladian design of the house, a style that still holds up as a piece of architectural beauty.

Constructed in the first half of the 18th century, Drayton Hall counts itself as the lone survivor of plantation homes that made it through the American Revolution as well as the American Civil War.

The home has been kept in very good condition, and the surrounding landscape has retained its lushness.

Tours cover all sorts of important parts of history, from wartime to the African American experience.

Drayton Hall has unquestionably earned its status as a National Historic Landmark.

It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Admission is $32 for adults and $15 for youths, ages eight to 14.

Address:  3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

28. John’s Island

Serge Skiba / Shutterstock

John’s Island is a more rustic island, but it’s still a very beautiful part of the Charleston area.

The state’s biggest island, as well as one of the five biggest ones on the entire east coast, going to John’s Island can be like having a vacation getaway inside your vacation getaway.

If there’s one particular thing that you have to see at John’s Island, it’s Angel Oak.

This tree is centuries old and has withstood all sorts of natural disasters.

Although one hurricane in the 1980s caused some harm, Angel Oak has been able to persist.

John’s Island can be seen as an all-important finishing touch that makes Charleston complete.

You might come for Angel Oak but you may also stay far longer based on how splendorous it all is.

This is a slice of paradise that keeps on giving.

29. The Spectator Hotel

The Spectator Hotel

The hotel industry in this city can feel like its primary focus is to show just how many great accommodations one city can have.

The Spectator Hotel could be very well called “The Spectacular Hotel,” as that’s exactly how it makes guests feel.

If you want to feel total bliss at a temporary residence, stay at The Spectator Hotel.

Have you ever fantasized about having a butler?

The Spectator Hotel provides you with one.

The old-timey feel is felt further when you step into the bar, which might be better called a “speakeasy,” given how well it recalls Prohibition-era drinking establishments.

The Spectator Hotel provides you with fun and pleasure in maximum dosages.

It shows how classiness is a trait that never goes out of style.

The only drawback to staying at The Spectator is having to get back to your comparatively-less glamorous everyday life.

Address:  67 State St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

30. The Schooner Pride

Schooner Pride

There’s too much water around you to not go out on at least one boat outing.

The Schooner Pride is a magnificent sailing vessel that can fit many people.

You’ll see just how important Charleston’s sailing legacy is when you embark on a voyage on The Schooner Pride.

A maximum of 49 people at a time can board The Schooner Pride, which starts proudly at 84-feet tall.

With its many masts, it looks like a sailboat you might’ve seen in dreams or storybooks.

For two hours, you can put other concerns aside and just embrace the ebb and flow of the water.

Any moment can be made even more special by being in the right setting.

The Schooner Pride brings out the magic in your South Carolina vacation all the more.

Prices for sails on the Schooner Pride vary based on experience.

Address:  360 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Charleston

Charleston’s not just a fun southern city.

It’s one of the most historically important cities in the entire country.

It is full of beautiful natural attractions, high-society living arrangements, and tons of awesome food.

If you want to see just how excellent South Carolina is, spend some time in its capital.

17 Ideas For What to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

Looking for tips on what to do in Charleston, South Carolina? Then you’ve come to the right place.

Charleston is famous for its historic sites, 18th century architecture, incredible beaches and nature sites, and warm Southern charm.

Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, you’ll find there are many things to do in Charleston SC.

In this guide, we shared some of our top tips and recommendations for tourist attractions in Charleston, as well as suggestions for places to eat, drink, stay, and explore.

Is Charleston, South Carolina Worth Visiting?

• 1. Explore Sullivan's Island

2. Take the Kids to Splash in the Joe Riley Waterfront Park Fountains

3. check out the stunning architecture of rainbow row, 4. pay a visit to the battery, 5. visit the charleston tea plantations, 6. step back in time at the charleston museum, 7. visit magnolia cemetery, 8. wander around charleston, bars in charleston, 10. check out the markets & shops in charleston, 11. attend one of the top charleston festivals.

• 11. Try Some Good Ol' Southern Cuisine
• 12. Relax on Folly Island's Beaches

13. Head over to Kiawah Island

14. spend a day at the south carolina aquarium, 15. check out patriots point naval & maritime museum, 16. visit the old exchange and provost dungeon, 17. admire the views from ravenel bridge, where to stay in charleston, south carolina, best time of year to visit charleston, getting to and from charleston, final thoughts on things to do in charleston, pin it to pinterest.

Charleston, South Carolina is easily one of the most charming cities in the country, if not the world.

The historic buildings that hosted founding fathers now house award winning restaurants and stores. What’s old becomes new again.

It’s also the ideal combination of beach, city and country, with all three within fifteen minutes of each other, making it one of the best weekend getaways in the USA.

For those reasons and more, it’s absolutely worth visiting. It is included in our best USA road trips list!

Things to Do in Charleston, SC

Below are some of our favorite attractions in Charleston and places to see. Make sure you add a few of these stops to your Charleston itinerary.

1. Explore Sullivan’s Island

There are dozens of barrier islands and beaches surrounding Charleston, but Sullivan’s Island just happens to be my favorite. It is more family-oriented and has the small town atmosphere.

It has a unique blend of history and natural beauty. One of the main reasons to visit here is for the pristine beaches which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing on, as well as opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing in the surrounding waters.

However don’t miss a visit to Fort Moultrie, a national historic landmark that played a significant role in American military history.

The Joe Wiley Waterfront Park is a large urban park with places to walk, jog, play and lounge around.

If you’re visiting on a hot summer’s day, there are two fountains that can keep children entertained and cool during the sweltering summer months.

It’s location next to Charleston harbor offers incredible views from the pier overlooking the water.

Rainbow Row and the Battery are famous for a reason. Rainbow Row is the ideal photospot for a postcard, with houses painted in pastel colors.

This beautiful and historic street dates back to the 18th century and is a prime example of Georgian and Federal architecture.

Stroll along the cobblestone streets and marvel at the vibrant colors of the homes, which have been perfectly preserved.

You can also step into several art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon walk or a day of shopping.

The nearby Battery, or White Point Garden, has some of the city’s most expensive homes overlooking where the Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet.

The Battery offers stunning views of the harbor and Fort Sumter.

The Battery is not only known for its houses, but also the fortified seawall that was constructed in the late 18th century to protect the city against naval attacks.

Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, which is lined with palmetto trees and historic mansions, or relax on one of the many park benches and take in the picturesque views.

Some nearby monuments worth checking out for their architecture are the Confederate Defenders of Charleston monument and the Fort Sumter monument.

Get your entry ticket to Fort Sumter Here.

Charleston is home to several historic plantations, such as Boone Hall Plantation and Magnolia Plantation, feature stunning gardens, historic homes, and educational exhibits that showcase the area’s rich history and culture.

Charleston Tea Garden (Formerly Charleston Tea Plantation) is the nation’s only functioning tea plantation on Wadmalaw Island and is a beautiful day trip activity. They host a music festival every summer

If you only visit one plantation, Middleton Place is my pick because of the gardens and grounds. The house is not too shabby either.

You can also take guided tours of the plantation homes and learn about the lives of the enslaved people who worked on these estates.

Get tours and entrance tickets to the plantations in advance:

• Magnolia Plantation
• Boone Hall Plantation

If you’re looking for things to do in Charleston on a rainy day in town, the Charleston Museum is a great place to go.

The museum was founded in 1773, making it the oldest museum in the United States.

The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture, plus some artifacts from prehistory.

Instead of wasting time on the long ferry to Fort Sumter or staring into a pool of water housing the Hunley, go to Magnolia Cemetery.

This is the resting place of hundreds of American Civil War soldiers, old Charleston families and all three crews of the Hunley.

Founded in 1849, the cemetery features stunning monuments, intricately designed tombstones, and ancient oak trees that provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

As you walk through the cemetery, you can see the final resting place of many notable figures from Charleston’s past, including politicians, military leaders, and artists.

If you really want to get to know the city, skip the horse-drawn carriage tours because the treatment is questionable.

You might also want to skip the ferry to Fort Sumter National Monument because it’s not much to see unless you’re a civil war buff.

Instead, spend time aimlessly walking around the city . This is the best way to see the authentic culture and way of life here.

Across Marion Square from Lower King lies the Upper King Design District, which has a lot of up-and-coming restaurants, vintage boutiques and bookstores.

The Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood used to be mostly low income housing, but now it’s a mix of college students, coffee shops and restaurants.

Some people might be concerned when they hear North Charleston, but Park Circle is a part of the former Naval base. It still has that 1950s vibe and has some great restaurants.

Shem Creek is Mount Pleasant’s seafood mecca, with dozens of seafood joints and boat charter companies lining the inlet.

Old Town reminds us of the time before Charleston became what it is today with an old-fashioned pharmacy and store. It was also the backdrop for scenes in The Notebook .

John’s Island is not a neighborhood as such, but an island off the coast of Charleston. It’s still very rural, but it’s worth the drive just for Angel Oak, the largest living thing east of the Mississippi.

You might also want to experience the barrier islands like Edisto, Kiawah, Johns, and Wadmalaw, which offer unreal natural beauty.

Avondale in West Ashley has a nice dining and shopping area frequented by young professionals.

Check out the Historic Charleston Walking Tour  

9. Go For A Night on the Town in Charleston

Charleston has a lively night life scene and is an excellent city for young (and old) travelers who love to party and enjoy a night on the town. It’s also well known for it’s speakeasy bars, which are hidden behind doors and phone booths.

Upper King is where most of the college bars are located, but that just means that they’re not overpriced.

They are all within walking distance of each other so you can wear the cute shoes instead of the comfortable ones.

Market Street has the most bars but can get crowded and charge covers during high season. Check out Mad River, housed inside a former church, and Market Street Saloon, where ladies dance on the bar Coyote Ugly-style.

Rooftop is on the roof of the Vendue Inn and has beautiful views of downtown Charleston. The cocktail list has Southern-influenced martinis, like the Charleston Sweetini.

The Griffon is an English-style pub where it’s tradition to write your name on a dollar bill and staple it to the wall. They also serve excellent traditional English fish ‘n’ chips.

The Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka distillery is now open for tours, which means you can see where the vodka is produced and even sip on some.

Gene’s Haufbrau is a bar for beer lovers, complete with over 150 beers and as much bar food.

My favorite neighborhood bar was always AC’s Bar and Grill because they have a Beer of the Month special. Their Sunday brunch is ideal for soaking up last night’s booze.

The epicenter of downtown Charleston is King Street, home to all the best bars, restaurants and stores. It’s also the best place for people watching. Once a month, the city shuts down part of it for pedestrians to walk freely.

King Street is a shopping haven in its own right, from Morris Street on Upper King all the way down to the end.

You’ll find a range of stores, including vintage clothing, records, books, antiques, high-end boutiques and chains.

The Historic Charleston City Market has been completely refurbished and now has permanent booths as well as temporary booths, selling the famous sweetgrass baskets and other local wares. The Charleston Farmer’s Market not only sells ready to eat food but sells local art and crafts and fresh produce.

The Tanger Outlets in North Charleston offer deals on Fossil, Coach, BCBG and other high-end brands.

Charleston has hundreds of events throughout the year but without a doubt, the biggest and most famous is the Spoleto USA Arts Festival .

The Cooper River Bridge Run is another big event, a 10K race over the bridge from Mount Pleasant. Whilst  Southeastern Wildlife Expo hosts wildlife experts and artists.

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival brings together local and international chefs for a week of fine dining.

Charleston Fashion Week hosts regional fashion designers and retailers.

11. Try Some Good Ol’ Southern Cuisine

Charleston is a foodie’s city and the question most people ask when you’re hosting out-of-towners is “where are you taking them to eat?”

While there are plenty of big name award-winning restaurants, there are plenty of budget options to satiate your palate.

Budget places to eat in Charleston are…

• Charleston Farmers Market is the hub of all Saturday morning activity, where local farmers and artisans bring their produce and crafts, respectively, to sell to the public. There are also food stalls with every type of cuisine. The longest lines are often at Charleston Crepe Company and Roti Rolls.
• Bowen’s Island Restaurant is a landmark in its own right and has served generations of patrons, even after a devastating fire in 2006 destroyed years of beloved graffiti on its walls. They’ve since rebuilt and serve up the freshest seafood in town, which goes straight from the ocean into the fryer and onto your plate.
• Poe’s Tavern on Sullivan’s Island pays homage to the island’s former resident, Edgar Allan Poe, who spent time as a soldier there. The front porch is very inviting on a summer day with a pint of beer in hand and a burger in front of you.
• Jack’s Cosmic Dogs is like dining in the 1950s. Way out in Mount Pleasant is this roadside stop, known for “cosmic” dogs with special sweet potato mustard and hand cut fries.

For more upmarket places to eat in Charleston, check out the following places:

• Husk is a restaurant owned by McCrady’s Sean Brock, who has been nominated for countless James Beard awards. Either restaurant is a sure thing for terrific food and ambiance.
• FIG , short for Food is Good, is another award winner led by chef Mike Lata. Located on Meeting Street, it’s the ideal place to impress out of towners.
• Halls Chophouse is known for the best cuts of steak with sides to share, best for special occasions or just a cocktail after dinner.
• Fleet Landing is on the cheaper end of the upmarket scale and is the only waterfront restaurant downtown. The refurbished Navy dock has delicious seafood and great views at sunset.

Check out the Downtown Charleston Culinary Tour  

12. Relax on Folly Island’s Beaches

Folly Island is a charming barrier island just outside of Charleston known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.

The island features miles of pristine beaches, specifically Folly Beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

You can also walk around the island and explore the charming restaurants, cafes, and shops, or take a stroll along the iconic pier.

With its relaxed vibe and beautiful scenery, Folly Beach is the perfect place to go when you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Check out this boat tour to Folly Island here.

Kiawah Island is another barrier island that has miles of pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and abundant opportunities for outdoor adventures.

You can take a leisurely bike ride along the island’s many nature trails, go kayaking or paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

The South Carolina Aquarium is the perfect thing to do in Charleston on a rainy day.

The aquarium features several exhibits that showcase the diverse and amazing creatures that call the waters of the Lowcountry home, including sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays.

Visitors can also learn about the aquarium’s conservation efforts and participate in educational programs, and even pay a visit to the touch tank which allows you to get up close to some of the marine life.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is a great place to visit for anyone interested in military history and naval technology.

The museum features several exhibits that showcase the region’s military heritage, including the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, a World War II-era aircraft carrier that is now a floating museum.

Explore the ship’s many decks and compartments, learn about the lives of the sailors who served aboard her, and even climb into the cockpit of fighter jet.

Check out this guided tour of Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum.

The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon allows visitors to glimpse into the city’s colonial and Revolutionary War-era history.

The building itself served as a hub for political and social activity during the 18th century and was even used as a prison during the American Revolution.

You can take a guided tour of the building and explore the Provost Dungeon, where prisoners of war were held during the conflict.

The museum also features several exhibits that showcase Charleston’s role in the American Revolution and the city’s rich cultural heritage.

The Ravenel Bridge is a marvel of engineering that offers breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding waterways.

The cable-stayed bridge spans over two miles across the Cooper River, connecting downtown Charleston with Mount Pleasant.

You can take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the bridge’s pedestrian path, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the harbor.

The bridge is also illuminated at night, creating a stunning visual display that is not to be missed.

If you’re not sure where to stay in Charleston, here are a couple of suggest hotels and vacation rentals.

If you’re visiting on a budget, you may want to check out…

• Charleston Not So Hostel is the only hostel in Charleston and even in the state of South Carolina. The Spring Street location offers both dorm and private rooms and they’ve recently opened a second location on Cannon Street that has more private rooms.
• Embassy Suites is located in Marion Square’s former Citadel building and they have the best hotel breakfast in town.
• The Charleston Marriott on Lockwood Boulevard has views of the Marina, is a short walk from the Charleston Riverdogs baseball stadium. The Aqua Terrace rooftop bar is perfect for a sunset drink.

If you have a little more in your budget, these are some excellent upmarket places to stay in Charleston…

• Arguably the most luxurious hotel in town, Charleston Place has world famous restaurants, shopping and a spa.
• The Francis Marion Hotel is the only tall building in sight, having been built in 1924 before the rule was established that you can’t build higher than the church steeples.
• Who wouldn’t want to sleep in the same hotel that Robert E. Lee and Theodore Roosevelt stayed in? The Mills House Hotel is a Charleston landmark.

Spring is the best time of year to visit Charleston as it can be sweltering in the summer. Autumn brings with it the lush autumn foliage, and winters are also mild.

Charleston International Airport is the hub for regional flights from Charlotte and Atlanta but offers some direct flights.

Delta and Southwest are the main airlines that service the airport, but American, United and US Airways also fly there.

Amtrak and Greyhound both make stops in North Charleston. If you are driving, you will come into town from highway I-26 or I-95. US-17 also runs along the coast. Check here for rental car prices and availability.

When it comes to getting around Charleston, your best form of transport is your own two feet.

Charleston is a city made for walking, with nearly everything you need within a 15-minute stroll.

CARTA buses offer a free route from King Street to the Aquarium, but the other buses can be difficult for visitors to navigate.

Your best bet to get around town is the pedicabs run by college students or by car. Just remember, there are lots of one way streets!

I love Charleston because it’s the perfect combination of new and old and it’s constantly evolving.

It’s a place where college students go to the beach between classes and where it’s not unusual to see men rocking seersucker pants.

Manners are still important but the city has as much culture and nightlife as you could find anywhere in the lowcountry.

I hope this guide helped you plan some things to do in Charleston and gave you some inspiration for your next trip.

More South Carolina And East Coast Tips

Need more inspiration for things to do in South Carolina and the East Coast? Then these other resources may be helpful…

• Things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids 
• East Coast USA road tripping highlights
• Finding serenity at Lake Lure and Chimney Rock State Park, NC
• Spectacular Florida vacation spots
• Essential Things to do Beaufort, SC

BIO: Caroline Eubanks is a writer and travel blogger from Atlanta, Georgia. After going to university in Charleston, she spent a year traveling around Australia. You can read more about her on her blog, Caroline in the City .

Do you have tips on what to do in Charleston? Please share in the comments.

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charleston, SC

Written by Becca Blond and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

There is something about Charleston's charm that never gets old and keeps travelers returning year after year. With its walkable downtown, a legacy dating back to the 1700s, and easy-on-the-eyes architecture, this Southern port city is like no other place in America.

The Holy City is the kind of place where old and new intersect. You can spend a morning learning about the city's complicated history on a horse-drawn carriage ride and an evening staying very much in the present with a meal at one of its buzzy, innovative restaurants showcasing the best of Lowcountry cuisine. You'll find endless things to do here.

Make sure to pack some good walking shoes to see the attractions, because you'll want to explore as much of Charleston as possible on foot. Take a walk down centuries-old cobblestone streets in the historic district with its church towers and veranda-fronted homes. Stop to peek into Spanish moss-covered gardens in the alleys behind the graceful old mansions lining its waterfront around The Battery.

Or head to one of the many barrier islands just offshore to walk in the sand and play in the sea.

The city is also home to the oldest landscaped gardens in the U.S. and a few excellent museums. Check out our guide to learn more about Charleston's top attractions.

1. Middleton Place

2. waterfront park, 3. international african american museum, 4. magnolia plantation & gardens, 5. watch basket weavers at the old city market, 6. take a boat to fort sumter national monument, 7. uss yorktown and patriots point, 8. stroll through the battery and white point gardens, 9. see angel oak and johns island, 10. south carolina aquarium, 11. bike across the ravenel bridge, 12. boone hall plantation, 13. the charleston museum, 14. drayton hall, 15. old slave mart museum, 16. nathaniel russell house and aiken-rhett house, 17. cathedral of st. john the baptist and historic churches, 18. calhoun mansion, 19. tour historic homes at the festival of houses and gardens, where to stay in charleston for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in charleston, sc, charleston - climate chart.

Home to America's oldest landscaped gardens, Middleton Place is a National Historic Landmark that began in 1675 as a rice plantation. Once the home of the Middleton family, whose lineage included two of the country's Founding Fathers, today it is a living history museum.

It tells its complicated, often dark story, which included the generations of enslaved labor, in a truthful manner. The Beyond the Fields: Enslavement at Middleton Place documentary is shown three times daily and recognizes the stories of "brutality, survival, contribution, and perseverance" of the people enslaved here.

Visitors can also tour the 1755 Middleton family home , where you'll see large garden rooms, rare books, porcelain, and family portraits. As well as paying a visit to the Stableyards, where you'll meet the heritage breed livestock.

The gardens are the real treat, however. Covering some 65 acres, they feature a magnificent series of descending terraces, hedged galleries, and pools, the grounds show off their symmetrical 17th-century European design. The gardens bloom year-round with rare camellias in the winter and azaleas in the spring. Walking tours of the gardens are included with admission and offered daily at the top of the hour between 10am and 3pm.

Look for Middleton Place on the Ashley River, about 15 miles north of downtown Charleston.

Official site: https://www.middletonplace.org

A place where tourists and locals gather to relax and enjoy the views of Charleston Harbor, the 12-acre Waterfront Park stretches along more than 1,000 feet of waterfront. Old-fashioned park benches and double swings face the water, where sailboats and larger ships are common sights.

Fountains, including the unusual Pineapple Fountain , are lighted at night, and seasonal flower gardens add splashes of color. The park's central location near the City Market and historic sights, along with its free Wi-Fi, make it even more popular.

Address: 1 Vendue, Charleston, South Carolina

After 20-years of planning and $100 million in costs, the International African American Museum (IAAM) opened in Gadsen's Wharf and brings Charleston's role in the slave trade to the forefront.

The museum's location is significant because Gadsen's Wharf was the U.S. entry point for more than 40 percent of captive Africans sold into slavery at auctions here beginning in 1783. In fact, it is believed that more than 80 percent of African Americans, including Michelle Obama, can trace one or more ancestors back to Charleston.

The museum's mission is to document the journey captive Africans were forced to take from the 1700s onward. The exhibitions in the nine galleries tell the unvarnished story of the brutality these enslaved people, and their descendants, endured from a local, national, and international perspective. It also has a Center for Family History that will serve as a first-of-its-kind resource for the study and advancement of African American genealogy.

The International African American Museum's site choice and building financial investment is one of several ways Charleston is owning up to the role it played in enslaving humans after years of downplaying it. The first came in 2015 when the Confederate flag was finally removed from the South Carolina State House. The city council also formally apologized for Charleston's role in slavery in 2018.

Official site: https://iaamuseum.org/

It's not just garden lovers who will be enchanted by the year-round beauty of Magnolia Plantation's extensive gardens. These are America's oldest publicly accessed gardens, first opened to visitors in 1870, although portions of them date to two centuries earlier. They are also the nation's last large-scale Romantic-style garden, in contrast to most show gardens where nature is controlled and shaped by formal beds, paths, and landscaping.

Nurtured by generation after generation of the same family, the gardens have grown as each subsequent owner added new features. You can take a guided tour of the house, visit an Antebellum cabin, take a boat tour, see exhibits, and take younger visitors to a nature center and petting zoo.

Address: 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: www.magnoliaplantation.com

One of the most popular things to do in Charleston is to browse through the old market building, a prominent landmark in the historic district. Lively and colorful, it is a good place for souvenir shopping and just absorbing the local atmosphere.

Vendors sell locally made handcrafts and traditional food products like stone-ground grits, but the prime souvenirs of Charleston are the beautiful sweetgrass baskets. As tourists watch fascinated, Gullah artisans in the open-air "sheds" alongside the market hall weave these intricate works of art from native Lowcountry rushes, creating treasures that are among the country's oldest and most highly prized traditional crafts. The techniques and patterns originated in West Africa, and these baskets are the quintessential souvenir of Charleston.

Built in 1841 in the Greek Revival style, the red sandstone building with green ironwork trim, along with its sheds, are among the more than 100 sites in the city listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Location: Between North and South Market streets

Official site: https://www.thecharlestoncitymarket.com

The American Civil War began on April 12, 1861, at Fort Sumter, when the Confederacy pummeled the federal fort in Charleston Harbor. At the end of the war, the American flag was once again raised over the remains of Fort Sumpter, exactly four years after the attack.

The ruins of the battered fort are well preserved, and National Park Rangers tell the story of Fort Sumter and how it helped shape history.

Visitors must ride to the island by boat, from the Visitor Education Center downtown at Liberty Square or from Patriots Point, a good chance to view the city from the water.

Official site: www.nps.gov/fosu/index.htm

Just across Charleston Harbor from the Historic District is Patriots Point, where you can board the USS Yorktown . This immense vessel was the tenth aircraft carrier to serve in the United States Navy, receiving the Presidential Unit Citation and earning 11 battle stars for service in World War II, as well as five battle stars for service in Vietnam.

The USS Yorktown was also the vessel selected to recover the Apollo 8 astronauts, and even made a film debut in the 1944 documentary The Fighting Lady. The USS Yorktown was retired to Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum in 1975. While at Patriots Point, you can also tour aircraft, submarines, and other maritime exhibits.

Address: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Official site: www.patriotspoint.org

The promenade along the seawall washed by the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, as they meet and form Charleston Harbor, became a public garden in 1837 but was fortified as Battery Ramsey when the Civil War began.

Historic mortars and cannons from that war, as well as a Confederate monument, are displayed here, but the main reason the park is a favorite place for tourists to stroll is that it is bordered by some of Charleston's grandest stately homes and mansions, and offers a spectacular view of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor.

Address: Murray Blvd, Charleston, South Carolina

Paying a visit to Angel Oak on Johns Island is well worth the pretty 20-minute drive from downtown. This magical tree is thought to be one of the oldest living oak trees east of the Mississippi. It is 65 feet tall, 25.5 feet wide, and provides shade to more than 17,2000 square feet.

The tree is thought to be between 300 and 400 years old . It is preserved by the city as a historical site and sees about 400,000 visitors each year.

There is more than just Angel Oak to see on Johns Island. The largest island in South Carolina , it has an undeveloped, still wild vibe throughout. The island is home to numerous live oak trees and draped in Spanish moss that will have you stopping to take pictures at every turn.

If the season is right, rent a kayak, SUP, or charter a small fishing boat to explore the salt marshes and rivers here. It's a wonderfully relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon and birdwatchers will rejoice at the number of species that can be spotted.

Johns Island is also a jumping-off point on the way to two of the region's most popular barrier island beaches on Kiawah and Folly Islands.

Folly Beach can get very crowded on hot summer days, and parking can be difficult, but the beach is one of the best around. Drive away from the central part of the beach on E. Arctic Ave., however, and you'll find fewer people and better parking.

Kiawah Island also has beautiful beaches and excellent golf.

One of the most popular things to do for families in Charleston is the South Carolina Aquarium. Despite its name, it isn't just home to underwater creatures. Birds, land-dwelling mammals, plants, and reptiles join the sea inhabitants in every kid's favorite Charleston attraction.

The emphasis is on participation, so in addition to the two-story, 385,000-gallon aquarium tank, where there are daily interactive shows, you'll find Shark Shallows, where you can touch sharks and rays, and a touch tank with starfish and other creatures.

To get a feel for the behind-the-scenes animal care, visitors can tour the aquarium's Sea Turtle Hospital - South Carolina's only hospital for sick and injured sea turtles. The aquarium's best-loved resident is Caretta, a 220-pound loggerhead sea turtle that lives in the Great Ocean Tank.

Official site: http://scaquarium.org

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge across the Cooper River, joining downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant, became a well-loved landmark immediately upon its completion in 2005. Its sleek cable-stay design is more than just a pretty bridge: it is built to withstand winds in excess of 300 miles per hour and a 7.4-scale earthquake, and even to prevent collisions with ships.

Along with its multiple traffic lanes, the bridge includes a shared bicycle-pedestrian path named Wonders' Way, and walking or biking across it is a favorite activity for its sweeping views of Charleston.

One of America's oldest working plantations, the 1681 Boone Hall is best known for its moss-draped, three-quarter-mile Avenue of Oaks and for preserving original cabins of enslaved people. The highly photogenic trees that frame the approach to Boone Hall were planted in 1743 by the son of Major John Boone, the original owner.

Crops have been continuously grown here for more than three centuries, and you can buy fruits, berries, and vegetables at their Boone Hall Farms Market, close to the plantation on Hwy. 17.

Address: 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Official site: www.boonehallplantation.com/

Known as "America's First Museum," The Charleston Museum was founded in 1773 under the Charleston Library Society. Its collections are vast, arranged in a number of permanent exhibits that begin with Native Americans and early settlers in the Lowcountry History Hall , where you can see rare slave badges and early tools used in rice growing.

Exhibit areas illustrate early weaponry, life during the Revolution, and Charleston's role in the Civil War. The Early Days gallery displays the often-quirky collections of 19th-century world travelers, including an Egyptian mummy and case and Greek and Roman antiquities.

The Loeblein Gallery of Charleston Silver shows southern-made silver through the Victorian era (including George Washington's christening cup), and the Historic Textiles Gallery shows changing examples from the museum's outstanding collection of historic needlework, costumes, and textiles. Kidstory brings the history of Charleston and the Lowcountry to life in hands-on exhibits.

Address: 360 Meeting Street, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: www.charlestonmuseum.org

The elegant Drayton Hall is the oldest unrestored plantation house in America still open to the public. Similar to other local plantations, Drayton Hall offers guided house tours, but where it differs is that the house itself (its walls, floors, and fireplaces) remains virtually undisturbed, giving a rare glimpse into the past.

Dating from 1738, Drayton Hall Plantation was one of the few to survive the Civil War intact. Its interiors still feature ornamental details and original 18th-century craftsmanship. Other personal touches also remain, including as a children's growth chart dating back more than 300 years.

Drayton Hall also acknowledges the role it played in the larger history of the American South, including its abuse of enslaved people. The plantation's African-American cemetery, dating from about 1790, is among the oldest African-American cemeteries in the nation still in use.

Many travelers chose to combine a visit to Drayton Hall and Middleton Place . And you can purchase a joint entry ticket on Drayton Hall's website.

Official site: http://www.draytonhall.org

In the heart of the French Quarter, near the French Huguenot Church, the Old Slave Mart Museum is set inside the building where enslaved people were auctioned prior to the Civil War and is a somber, but important part of a Charleston trip focusing on history.

The tour is self-guided, with signage explaining the history. There are also personal accounts from enslaved individuals, artifacts, and audio and visual exhibits. It is a small but deeply affecting museum that gives a sobering view of history.

A block away is the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon , where costumed guides relate a history of pirates and patriots who were once imprisoned here.

Address: 6 Chalmers Street, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: http://www.oldslavemartmuseum.com

After walking past so many aristocratic mansions with their verandahs and imposing facades, you'll certainly be curious to look inside. A number are open as house museums, some furnished and decorated as they were in their heyday, and all giving a glimpse of upper-crust life in old Charleston.

Two of these are maintained by the Historic Charleston Foundation. The 1808 Nathaniel Russell House , at 51 Meeting Street, is among America's most important Neoclassical homes, known for its free-standing, three-story staircase and its ornate plasterwork. It is furnished with part of the organization's valuable collection of fine and decorative art, and is also especially known for its beautiful gardens.

Another notable Foundation property is the Aiken-Rhett House , at 48 Elizabeth Street. The 1820 home is unique in having remained in the same family for 142 years until it became a museum.

Official site: https://www.historiccharleston.org

Remarkable historic churches are scattered throughout Charleston, and each has a story to tell. Among the city's most interesting is the brownstone Cathedral of St. John the Baptist , a neo-Gothic structure built to replace the previous cathedral, which was lost in the devastating 1861 fire that destroyed much of the city. The pews are carved from Flemish oak, and the three original altars are made of white marble. It has some notable stained glass windows as well.

Among Charleston's other interesting churches are the Romanesque-style Circular Congregational Church , with colonial burial grounds dating from 1695, and the French Huguenot Church , home to the oldest continuously active Huguenot congregation in the United States.

St. Michael's Episcopal Church , a National Historic Landmark, dates to 1751 and is known for its four stained glass windows by Tiffany Company of New York and for the cedar pew where George Washington sat in 1791.

Address: 120 Broad Street, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: https://charlestoncathedral.com

Representing a different era from the Historic Charleston Foundation's antebellum homes, the 1876 Italianate Calhoun Mansion is a prime example of Gilded Age décor and taste. Some of its 30 main rooms have Tiffany decorations, and they are filled (some might say overfilled, but that was the taste of the times) with outstanding collections of decorative arts of the late 19th-century era.

The ballroom has a 45-foot-high ceiling, and behind the mansion, you can stroll through the formal English gardens.

Address: 16 Meeting Street, Charleston, South Carolina

Official site: www.calhounmansion.net/

Organized by the Historic Charleston Foundation, the Annual Festival of Houses and Gardens features tours and educational programs specifically geared toward architectural and gardening enthusiasts.

Held during the peak of the blooming season, the Festival offers guests the rare chance to see inside the city's private homes and gardens. Approximately 150 of America's most distinctive historic houses, spread throughout 12 colonial and antebellum neighborhoods, are open to tour.

Official site: www.historiccharleston.org/Events/Annual-Festival-of-Houses-and-Gardens.aspx

The main attractions in Charleston are clustered around the Historic District, and staying in this area of downtown will allow you to experience the best of the city. History buffs will want to base themselves in the heart of the Historic District; families may choose to stay to the northeast, closer to the aquarium; and budget seekers will find themselves five to seven miles out, and across the river to the west. The free DASH trolley operates three routes in the downtown area. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• The elegant French Quarter Inn offers exemplary service, luxurious accommodations and amenities, and is located in the center of the Historic District, just steps from the Charleston City Market.
• A five-minute walk from the beautiful Waterfront Park, The Spectator Hotel is a stylish new boutique hotel that assigns a butler to each guest.
• A luxury option, perfect for those who prefer to have full kitchen amenities, is The Restoration . This newly reopened property is on trendy King Street, Charleston's premier shopping area.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Close to the South Carolina Museum, the boutique Indigo Inn features 41 rooms in an 1850s-era restored warehouse.
• The new Hyatt House Charleston is a large hotel in the Upper King District, about a 15-minute walk from the heart of the Historic District and about a mile from the South Carolina Aquarium.

Budget Hotels:

• The Comfort Suites West of the Ashley is on Highway 17, five miles out from downtown. This hotel has large modern rooms at an attractive price.
• In the same area and offering a large outdoor pool, the Holiday Inn Express is a good option for families.
• A few miles closer to downtown is the newly renovated Sleep Inn , with cozy rooms and an outdoor pool.

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20 Fun And Unique Things To Do In Charleston, SC

September 17, 2023 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you are searching for the best and most unique things to do in Charleston, South Carolina, look no further!

A visit to this beautiful city really is one of the best things to do in South Carolina for the whole family!

From the historic buildings to the welcoming people, Charleston is full of true Southern charm. This is one of my favorite cities to visit in the South!

This small city is known for its beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, delicious food, and coastal views.

Just by walking down the streets, you can find many places to explore and the best Charleston activities to keep you entertained.

Planning your trip to Charleston last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Charleston in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are our top picks for your trip :

Top Tours And Experiences In Charleston:

• Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride (Our pick!!)
• Historical Walking Tour (Great way to see the city)
• Historic Harbor Cruise (Can choose sunset or daytime!)
• City Highlights Guided Bus Tour (Relaxing tour)

Top picks for places to stay in Charleston:

• Francis Marion Hotel (Amazing historic district location)
• Hyatt Place Charleston Historic District (Affordable)
• Hotel Emeline (Upscale and chic)
• Market Pavilion Hotel (4 star Downtown location)

While many places are must-sees when visiting, there are also many unique places to visit in Charleston when you wander beyond the popular spots.

There are hidden alleyways with storied pasts, tours that take you to haunted places, and restaurants that have an intriguing history to go with their cuisine.

There is so much to experience in Charleston. Whether you’re looking to spend the day on the water or immerse yourself in the rich history and culture, here is a list of what to do in Charleston!

If you are planning a Southern trip but are not sure whether to choose Savannah or Charleston , check out my complete guide comparing the cities. You can’t go wrong with either!

Wander Along Rainbow Row

Charleston is a bright, vibrant city full of sunshine and many colorful buildings. But none are as recognizable as Rainbow Row, a stretch of 13 pastel-colored Georgian houses located on East Bay Street.

It is the perfect location for a photo opportunity as these colorful buildings stand out between the palm trees lining the street.

These homes were first constructed around 1740 and used by merchants. After the Civil War, this area was run-down until 1931 when they were revitalized and painted bright colors.

Now, it is one of the most popular areas in the city.

Rainbow Row is located in an ideal area to walk around and is one of the best free things to do in Charleston!

This is truly one of the best places to stay in Charleston . This area is not to be missed.

Charleston is one of the most romantic getaways in the South and with streets like this, it is easy to see why!

Book Here: Charleston: History and Architecture Guided Walking Tour

Stop By Philadelphia Alley

There’s a hidden passageway often missed when visiting Charleston.

Philadelphia Alley is a beautiful brick and cobblestone path that has the quaint charm the city is famous for. 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 where people would settle 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 just 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!

Book Here: Charleston: Historical Walking Tour

Learn History at Fort Sumter

One of the best things to do in Charleston for history lovers is a visit to 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 in use.

There is also a museum inside with many artifacts and information about Charleston’s involvement in the war.

Even those who aren’t huge 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. Keep an eye out for dolphins!

Book Here: Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride

Photograph the Angel Oak

The Angel Oak is an absolutely gorgeous tree located about 25 minutes from downtown Charleston. It is worth the drive for anyone interested in nature or looking for a photoshoot location.

This expansive tree is thought to be 400-500 years old and has survived many hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. Its largest branch spans almost 200 feet!

It is really a sight to behold and must not be missed! If you are looking for hidden gems in Charleston, this is one to add to your list.

Pretend you have stepped into Middle Earth as you admire this exquisite piece of nature and snap some pictures.

Visit the South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium has many native animals and plants, from the state’s mountains to the sea. Located on Charleston Harbor, the views from the aquarium also give 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 are able to be released back into the wild.

In this area, guests are able to see the sea turtles and learn about the care they receive from 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!

Tour the Charleston Tea Garden

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 teas.

The Charleston Tea Garden gift shop offers the chance to taste-test the nine flavors produced on their premises. This includes the American Classic Tea, which is the only brand of tea made exclusively with 100 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 for couples.

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!

Book Here: Charleston: Wadmalaw Island Wine Tasting and Tea Garden Trip

Shop at the Historic Charleston City Market

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 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!

The market is also one of the best places to visit during Christmas in Charleston !

Explore the Edmondston-Alston House

Located on the Battery with stunning views overlooking the harbor, the Edmondston-Alston House Tour is one of the best things to do in Charleston.

Inside the 1800s house is a vast collection of art, furniture, books, and silver owned by the family who lived there. Walking through the house gives guests the opportunity to see how people in Charleston may have lived during this time.

Guests are guided through the different rooms and then brought outside to the piazza to see the views of the Charleston Harbor.

The Confederate commander who gave the order to fire cannons on Fort Sumter which started the American Civil War stood and observed the bombardment from this piazza.

The beautifully decorated Edmondston-Alston House is a wonderful way for guests to explore the inside of a historic Charleston home and even imagine what life would have been like in the past.

There are many more house museums in town if you are looking for more of the top things in Charleston for history buffs.

Don’t forget to check out some of the cutest bed and breakfasts in Charleston !

Get Spooked on a Ghost Tour

Charleston may be known for being a bright, vibrant city, but is also known as being one of the most haunted cities in the United States.

For people who are interested in being spooked, ghost tours are always fun things to do in Charleston at night!

Many ghost tours are available in Charleston, each giving guests the chance to hear the darker history of the city and giving access to some of the most haunted places in the South .

The guides may lead guests through the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon for former war prisoners, to the cemetery where Annabelle Ravenel is rumored to be buried, and to jails where Charleston’s worst criminals lived and died.

Ghost tours are the perfect way to see more of Charleston and learn its hidden history. You might have the chance to see a Charleston ghost!

Book Here: Charleston: 90-Minute Ghost & Graveyard Walking Tour

Eat at Poogan’s Porch

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 lunch and dinner all while being served inside a beautiful building. They also serve the best brunch in Charleston !

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 one of the best restaurants in Charleston to do so!

See a Show at the Dock Street Theater

For anyone interested in the arts scene, a stop by the Dock Street Theater is necessary!

Originally built in 1736, the theater was the first in the United States made exclusively for theater performances. The first opera performance in the U.S. also took place here.

The theater was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1740 and then rebuilt in 1809.

The theater is currently owned by the city of Charleston and operates year-round, showcasing productions from local artists as well as touring companies.

Visiting the Dock Street Theater and seeing quality performances is one of the unique Charleston activities!

Take a Ride on the Schooner Pride

The Schooner Pride is a replica of the 18th-century tall ships that used to sail in the Charleston Harbor and offers sailing tours of the area.

One of the best things to do in Charleston is to spend some time on the water and there’s no better way than sailing with the wonderful crew aboard the Schooner Pride.

Guests can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views as the ship sails through the harbor, passing the city of Charleston, the Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter, and many other staples in the city.

There is the option of taking the afternoon sail where guests can marvel at the wildlife and have a chance to see dolphins swimming nearby or at sunset to see the beautiful colors light up the sky.

The Schooner Pride is a perfect way to experience life on the water in Charleston!

Book Here: Charleston: Schooner Sailing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch

Step Back in Time at Aiken-Rhett House

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. 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.

Find Amazing Views from Ravenel Bridge

For visitors looking to get some steps in while enjoying a nice view, walking the Ravenel Bridge is one of the best activities in Charleston.

The 2.5-mile-long bridge, recognized for its cable-stayed design, overlooks the Charleston Harbor and leads from the city of Charleston to Mount Pleasant.

While the bridge offers some of the most beautiful views from the top, some visitors might be swayed by their fear of heights.

In this case, there is a pier located under the bridge that offers the same views from a lower standpoint. Both the bridge and the pier allow visitors to see some of the most stunning views of Charleston!

Old Slave Mart Museum

While slavery is a dark spot in American history, it is important to learn about this time.

You can do just that at the Old Slave Mart Museum which is housed where enslaved people had been auctioned.

The historic building was constructed in 1856. It was used in the slave trade until 1863. At one point, close to 40% of enslaved people entered the US through Charleston.

The Old Slave Mart was first used as a museum in 1938. It was not until 2007 that it became the museum it is today with a dedication to teaching about slavery.

You will find many artifacts, documents, illustrations, and personal accounts.

Many staff members can trace their lineage back to those who once passed through the mart.

Watch Sunset from Waterfront Park

One of the most recognized areas in Charleston is Joe Riley Waterfront Park.

From the fun Pineapple Fountain in the center to the pier extending into the harbor, this eight-acre park is one of the best things to do in Charleston with kids.

Visitors can walk around the area and see views of the Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter, and the USS Yorktown from across the water.

Visitors can sit on the swings on the pier, watch the boats passing by, or look for wildlife in the water.

After a long day of walking around the city, Waterfront Park is the perfect place to relax! It is a great place to watch the sunset too!

A visit here is a must during a weekend in Charleston, South Carolina !

Visit the Islands and Beaches Near Charleston

If you want to enjoy a beach day, you do not have to venture far. There are so many great islands and beaches in Charleston to explore.

Folly Beach is about 20 minutes south and offers a beautiful escape from the city. Along with being perfect for sunbathing and swimming, this is one of the best beaches in South Carolina for surfing.

On the undeveloped Sullivan’s Island, you will find amazing stretches of beaches as well as many lighthouses, historic buildings, and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. This is one of the top islands in South Carolina for a beach vacation!

Looking for luxury things to do near Charleston? Head to Isle of Palms with its many resorts, golf courses, restaurants, and beaches.

Take a Charleston Culinary Tour

Foodies will want to take a food tour in order to try the best Southern meals offered in Charleston.

Taking a guided tour takes the guesswork out of finding the top restaurants and food options in the city. Enjoy delicious shrimp and grits, hushpuppies, she-crab soup, Lowcountry BBQ, and more yummy dishes.

In between stops at local eateries, you will walk the pretty streets and learn about the history of the city from your tour guide.

When visiting Charleston, SC, you must take a culinary tour since food is a great way to learn about a location. This is a great activity for the whole family.

Maybe you’ll discover a great place for breakfast in Charleston !

Book Here: Charleston: Historic Downtown Food Tour with Tastings

Grab a Drink at Camellias

Looking for a chic place for a drink in town? Camellias is a beautifully designed, premier champagne lounge at Hotel Bennett.

Named the Most Instagrammable Restaurant in South Carolina by Food Network, this is one of the best things to do in Charleston for adults wanting a relaxing bar scene.

You will adore the pink decor, crystal chandelier, and reclaimed marble.

The food menu features caviar, charcuterie, and local seafood. The is also an extensive champagne and wine selection.

The tasty cocktails include Honey I’m Comb, To Peach Their Own, and Keep Your Gin Up.

Shop on King Street

King Street is the historic shopping district in Charleston. According to U.S. News & World Report , it is one of America’s Best Shopping Streets.

Whether you buy anything or just window shop, this is a great place in town for a stroll among beautiful buildings.

There are all sorts of goods for sale on this street. Shop for bridal gowns, antiques, candles, jewelry, books, vintage clothing, home decor, and more.

Purchase designer goods while supporting local businesses.

You will also find many trendy art galleries, restaurants, and bars. Check into one of the best boutique hotels in Charleston , too.

If you love shopping while traveling, you have to include King Street on your Charleston itinerary.

Book Here: Charleston: King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks

A Note About Visiting Plantations in Charleston

When searching for attractions in Charleston, you will often see things like Boone Hall Plantation, Magnolia Plantation, and Middleton Place pop up.

We want to take a moment to say that we recommend against visiting these locations. Based on personal experience, plantations tend to glorify slavery and sugarcoat the enslaved people’s experience.

Touring homes built by slaveowners or hosting weddings where enslaved people were forced to work feels inappropriate.

While it is important to learn about this harrowing time in American history, we believe there are better ways to do so like visiting the Old Slave Mart Museum.

We encourage you to make your own decisions on visiting Charleston plantations, but please keep this in mind when planning your trip.

What About Carriage Rides in Charleston?

Another popular activity in Charleston we would advise against is taking horse-drawn carriage rides. This is for the sake of the horses.

The animals are often overworked or made to pull carriages in hot temperatures. Horses in Charleston and elsewhere are occasionally injured or even collapse while working.

Working in an urban setting side by side with cars is also not good for the horses’ health or overall well-being.

There are so many other fun things to do in Charleston that it is easy to avoid taking a carriage tour.

Hopefully, you have found some cool things to do in Charleston this weekend!

Next, check out some more of the best weekend getaways in South Carolina !

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• Best Things to Do in Charleston

22 of the Absolute Best Things to Do in Charleston

Known for its picturesque, antebellum charm, incredible cuisine, and colorful history, Charleston makes for one of the best vacation spots in the United States. Its colonial-style buildings and cobblestone boulevards evoke the romantic Old South, while its coastal location provides plenty of scenic variety.

From family-friendly gardens to spooky ghost tours, Charleston has something for everyone. Continue reading to learn about 22 of the best attractions Charleston offers.

Picnic at Riley Waterfront Park

Riley Waterfront Park is one of Charleston's most popular places to unwind. This ten-acre park overlooks both Charleston Harbor and Cooper River and offers waterfront and off-the-water paths to tread upon. In the park is the beautiful Pineapple fountain, which is gorgeously lit up at night. This park has been beloved by Charleston locals and tourists alike since it was established in 1990.

Relax with a drink or some iconic Charlestonian dishes on one of the benches along Riley Waterfront Park’s iconic esplanade, for the perfect end to a day in the city.

Stroll down Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row is a famous series of 13 houses along Charleston’s East Bay Street. With its captivating, eponymous bright colors, Rainbow Row is one of the most photo-worthy locations in the city. Each pastel home has its own fascinating history and architecture. Theories as to why the houses are so brightly colored range from the colors helping drunk sailors find their way home more easily, to their allowing merchants to indicate what wares they sold, to their ability to keep the buildings cooler during hot summers.  Whatever the truth, Rainbow Row is a must-see part of Charleston.

Visit Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

Yet another testament to the rich history of Charleston, Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon is a fascinating place to visit. Built-in 1771, it has changed roles countless times: it was a British dungeon during the American Revolution, an elegant hall during George Washington’s 1791 visit to Charleston, and a meeting place for the ratification of the Constitution, among many other functions. With its gorgeous Georgian-Palladian facade, this landmark cannot be missed on a visit to Charleston. Admission to this historic building is only $12 for adults; within it, visitors can see the history of the nation come alive.

Marvel at the Angel Oak

Known as one of the most beautiful trees in the world, Angel Oak is another Charleston treasure. It is between 400 and 500 years old, making it one of the oldest living trees east of the Mississippi, and its canopy shades more than 17,000 square feet. Many believe that this tree is haunted by the spirits of enslaved people. Whether this is true or not, many visitors claim that the tree has an otherworldly presence. Angel Oak is just a 30-minute drive outside the city, and its surrounding park is free admission. This tree is an absolute must-visit wonder.

Visit Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

The 738 acres at Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens contain a wealth of nature and history. Its well-preserved slave quarters offer an eye-opening look inside the culture and lifestyle of enslaved people on the plantation, while the main hall provides visitors a glimpse inside the traditions of Southern planting families. The gardens are home to countless butterflies and varieties of antique flowers. Visitors can learn about the history of enslaved people, the plantation’s farming practices, and more during a visit to Boone Hall, with tickets starting at just $28.

Peruse the Charleston Museum

Charleston Museum is famously known as America’s very first museum. Established in 1773, the museum and its two Historic Landmark Houses are home to a vast collection of artifacts. From exhibits on antique textiles to Lowcountry Native American history to sports in Charleston, the museum is steeped in information. Its focus is on the archaeological, artistic, and communal history of South Carolina. Learn about everything from antique weapons to fossils with a visit to Charleston Museum, where admission starts at $12.

Take a Ghost Tour

Many believe Charleston to be one of the most haunted cities in America; visitors can experience the city’s paranormal underside during their own guided ghost tour. Tour Charleston offers a Ghosts of Charleston Nighttime Walking Tour with special access to Unitarian Church Graveyard, a haunted hotspot. During the tour, a storyteller brings Charleston’s haunted history to life while guests embark upon a nighttime tour of the city’s spookiest locations. This terrifying 90-minute ghost tour is available for $35 and is a must for those interested in Charleston’s haunted history.

Visit Charles Towne Landing

There is no better way to wrap up this list than Charles Towne Landing: the birthplace of South Carolina. This landing is where a group of English settlers first arrived in 1670. Nowadays, the park is home to a replica village and sailing ship that allows people to experience the life and era of America’s first settlers. Admission to the park is only $12 for adults. With 6 miles of trails and 80 acres of gardens, Charles Towne Landing is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and to experience some of the nation’s history.

Visit the historic Middleton Place

Middleton Place, a National Historic Landmark, is the site of the oldest landscaped gardens in America. Originally a plantation owned by the Middleton family, it is now a museum dedicated to those who lived and worked on the plantation. The stories of Middleton Place range from those of the Founding Fathers to that of enslaved people, offering a rich look into the history of the nation. Adult tickets are $29 for access to these 110 acres of gardens, farmland, and historic buildings at Middleton Place.

Walk the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

A gorgeous, 8-lane suspension bridge, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge stretches from Charleston to Mount Pleasant over the Cooper River. It offers sweeping views of Charleston, and it is one of the best places to watch the sunset in the city. The bridge has a 12-foot path for pedestrians and bikers, named Wonders’ Way. The path is named after Garrett Wonders, who died in a vehicle accident on the bridge before the path was constructed. The 2.5 mile long bridge is the perfect place to admire Charleston’s picturesque skyline and harbor during a sunset stroll.

Relax at Sullivan’s Island Beach

Located at the mouth of Charleston Harbor, right by the Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island Beach is the perfect respite from city life. Guests can surf, swim, and catch some rays at this scenic stretch of coastline. The beach is public, and it offers one of the most natural environments in the area. On the beachfront, visitors can find many bars and restaurants for a perfect way to wrap up a day in the sand.

Charleston Culinary Tours

Charleston is renowned for its delicious Southern fare and its lively culinary scene. From classics like shrimps and grits to fried green tomatoes, Charleston has some of the best cuisines in the United States. Undiscovered Charleston offers a culinary history walking tour with a cooking demo and a lunch and wine-tasting experience. Chef Forrest Parker will start by taking you on a 90-minute walking tour where you will get to understand the culinary influences that shaped Charleston into one of the world’s top food destinations. You’ll end the tour by enjoying a delicious 4-course meal at Bistro A Vin prepared by Chef Parker himself. Immerse yourself in the world of true Southern fare while learning about the history of Charleston’s most popular dishes!

Tour Charleston in an Old South Carriage Tour

Founded in 1670, Charleston is brimming with stories from the past. The Old South Carriage Company offers horse-drawn carriage tours through this beautiful port city, complete with a tour guide. Guides recount more than 300 years of the city’s vibrant history as visitors ride through 30 blocks of historic Charleston.

A carriage tour is a relaxing and authentic way to learn about Charleston’s history and to see its notable homes; the carriages are drawn by Belgian or Percheron draft horses, the same horses that tilled American farms in the 19th century. Tickets are $50 for a one-hour tour.

Wander through Charleston City Market

One of the nation’s oldest public markets, Charleston City Market, is both a cultural and a culinary hub. Open during the day year-round, with weekly Night Markets, Charleston City Market is constantly bustling. Over 300 entrepreneurs sell their wares at the market, offering everything from Christmas collectibles to handcrafted jewelry to gourmet jellies.

Visitors can spend a whole day at the market talking to locals, trying Charleston cuisine, and shopping for souvenirs, making it one of the best activities for getting to know the city.

Explore Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter, standing regally at the entrance of Charleston Harbor, was the location of the first battle between the Confederacy and the Union during the American Civil War. Its walls still show much of the extensive damage left behind by that 1861 assault. Now a National Historic Park, it can be accessed by a 30-minute ferry ride. Visitors can explore the fort and its accompanying museum, which showcases the history of the Civil War and of the fort itself.

For $32, visitors can explore the grounds, take a trip around the harbor, and learn about Fort Sumter’s important place in American history.

Farmers Market

Find the best of Charleston’s fresh produce and artisanal goods when you visit the Charleston Farmers Market, nestled in the heart of the city’s historic downtown. Featuring dozens of vendors that range from small family farms to candle makers to flower sellers, this market has something for everyone. It’s more than just a place to shop, however — it’s also the perfect way to connect with the local community and to make some lasting memories.

Held from 8am to 2pm every Saturday from April to November (though there’s also a holiday market in December), the Charleston Farmers Market will give you a genuine taste of Lowcountry living.

Gibbes Museum of Art

The finest visual art institution in Charleston, the Gibbes Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for art aficionados and those interested in the cultural history of Charleston. With over 10,000 pieces in its permanent collection, this Beaux Arts-style museum offers hours of entertainment and education. Artists whose work is in the permanent collection include Henrietta Johnston, Merton Simpson, and George LaGrange Cook. A visit here will also introduce you to the up-and-coming and well-established contemporary artists in and around Charleston. 

Stop by the Gibbes Museum any day of the week to soak in the important artistic heritage of the region and to appreciate some of the region’s most iconic artists.

Sailing Yacht Charters

Looking for a luxurious and private way to enjoy the sights of Charleston from the sea? Charleston Yacht Charter has you covered. Combining the best of Southern hospitality with the fascination of the open seas, this yacht charter opportunity will make for an unforgettable experience. Charleston Yacht Charter operates three luxury boats — Fate, Mystique, and Kismet, each with state-of-the-art interiors and professional staff. No matter which one you choose, you are in for an unparalleled, bespoke experience.

Each tour will take you past Charleston’s most iconic sights, including Fort Sumter, The Battery, Waterfront Park, and much more.

Edmondston Alston House

Built in 1825, Edmondston Alston House was one of the very first houses to be built on The Battery, and bore witness to some of the most important moments in Charlestonian history, including the Civil War and the Charleston Earthquake of 1886. Owned over the centuries by a merchant and then the affluent Alston family, the interior is a time portal back to the 19th century, complete with an original copy of the Ordinance of Secession.

With history that includes stories about such figures as Robert E. Lee, Edmondston Alston House is a fascinating testament to Charleston’s tumultuous past.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

History and military valor are on full display at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, an institution that is home to the World War II-era aircraft carrier the U.S.S. Yorktown and a fleet of other ships. Since it opened in 1976, this museum has highlighted the valiant and courageous efforts of American troops over the years, as well as various technological innovations that have contributed to American victories. 

Featuring interactive, experiential exhibits, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is the perfect place to learn more about — and immerse yourself in — the stories of the men and women bravely serving America.

McLeod Plantation Historic Site

An important site in the history of African Americans, McLeod Plantation is a hub of Gullah and Geechee heritage. Located on James Island, this former plantation is now dedicated to telling the history of slavery from the perspective of people who were enslaved. Its cabins exhibit the wealth of culture that was created by the enslaved people of the region, and its grounds are home to guided tours that explore the history and legacy of enslavement. 

To reckon with Charleston’s legacy of slavery, McLeod Plantation is a must-visit destination.

South Carolina Aquarium

Conservation efforts are at the forefront of South Carolina Aquarium’s initiatives. Not only does it operate a world-class Sea Turtle Care Center to rehabilitate sick and injured sea turtles, it also has efforts to reduce plastic pollution in the seas and to promote the responsible consumption of seafood. Besides that, South Carolina Aquarium is home to over 5,000 species of aquatic animals, from massive groupers and pelicans to alligators and river otters. 

Enjoy sustainable, family-friendly fun with a trip to the South Carolina Aquarium.

These 22 activities are just a few of the countless activities Charleston has to offer. Whether on a family vacation or a solo trip, this fascinating Southern city is the perfect destination. 

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An Eater's Guide to Charleston

Unofficial, highly opinionated information about the Holy City

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Table of Contents

- Welcome to the Lowcountry - Where to Start: Eater Carolina's Best Maps - Food Neighborhoods to Know - Charleston Glossary of Terms - Reservations to Make in Advance - Follow the News - Get in Touch

Charleston celebrates, and almost worships, the bounty of its surroundings: from freshly-caught blue crabs to grains milled on nearby Edisto Island. The city by the sea sits below the Sandhills, the original coastline of the ancient seas across the Carolinas, and is therefore often referred to as the "Lowcountry." So when you hear those words, you'll know you're in the midst of a culinary landscape like no other. Use this guide to seek out the best Charleston has to offer.

Welcome to the Lowcountry

A variety of influences from Europe, West Africa, and the West Indies combine to create the Lowcountry flavor that permeates this quaint, history-steeped Southern city. Local recipes undisputedly owe a debt of gratitude to the influence of enslaved Africans forced into the kitchens and rice fields early in the city's history. These families worked with products from the marshlands and sea to create a taste that remains uniquely Charleston, punctuated by a richness of spices from kitchen gardens and colonial trade. Dishes may have slightly evolved over time, but standard ingredients like oysters, rice, okra, crabs, and grits are still as prevalent as they were centuries ago. Today, the Holy City tries to balance the past with the present. A few old-school Southern haunts meet an excitement of newcomers.

When visiting Charleston, know that seafood is a must. The view from many rooftop bars will give you a front-row seat to the famous pink-hued sunsets. And oysters should start as many meals as possible — with a few cocktails too, of course.

As far as single food items go: try okra soup from Bertha's Kitchen , chicken liver pate from FIG , roasted oysters from Bowen's Island , raw oysters from the Ordinary , fried shrimp from Dave’s Carry-Out , a caviar sandwich from Chubby Fish , whole hog from Rodney Scott’s BBQ , and brisket from Lewis Barbecue .

Where to Start: Eater Carolina's Best Maps

Eater puts out tons of maps detailing the top places and things to eat and drink in Charleston. Below, we pull the top one or two points on the most popular maps to help time-starved eaters prioritize which spots to visit.

Hot Restaurant: The hottest of the hot , right now, is XO Brasserie .

Essential Restaurant: If you need to narrow down the Essential 18 , reserve a coveted spot at FIG and taste a farm-to-table Lowcountry trailblazer. Also, save a meal for Hannibal's to sample traditional Gullah Geechee dishes.

Brunch: The volume of champagne bottles popping on Sundays could almost drown out all the church bells. Locals love their mimosas, bloodies, and brunch .

Shrimp and Grits: Choosing a favorite shrimp and grits place is a bit like choosing a favorite child — no one comes out happy. On the fancy end, you have Husk , and on the more humble end, you have Marina Variety Store . Both offer exemplary versions of this signature Charleston dish.

Oysters: Bowen's Island makes for the ultimate oyster roast experience, while the Ordinary is hard to beat for towers of raw mollusks with perfect mignonettes. If a good deal is more important, check this map .

Bars: Find amazing cocktails in a chill atmosphere at Last Saint , which is also a decent starting point on the Essential Bars map.

Beer: If you only go to one Lowcountry brewery , stop by Coast Brewing to thank co-owners Jaime Tenny and David Merritt for helping to lead the way for South Carolina to have craft beers.

Food Neighborhoods to Know

These are the key areas of the city every self-proclaimed food person needs to get acquainted with — complete with what to eat and drink in each.

Downtown Charleston measures about four miles from top to bottom, so while there are plenty of great eating pockets in each neighborhood, we've divided the peninsula into groups that are within easy traveling distance from one another.

Where's the Lowcountry boil?

Folks can't seem to agree if it's Frogmore stew, Beaufort stew, Beaufort boil, or Lowcountry boil, but the heady combo of shrimp, sausage, corn, potatoes, and Old Bay seasoning garners plenty of interest among Charleston visitors. If you don't have Southern family to cook for you, take a car out to  Bowen's Island  for its version.

South of Calhoun

These are the well-traveled, historic neighborhoods of Charleston where carriage tours roam: French Quarter , Harleston Village , South of Broad , Ansonborough , and Lower King . You'll spot some of the oldest architecture here. Take time to walk by The Battery in between meals and gawk at some of the biggest mansions in the Holy City along the water and around White Point Garden.

Start your day with a crepe from Queen Street Grocery . If it's nice enough to sit outside, you can observe the carriage tours and learn a little history. Delight in fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and rosé for lunch after a stroll to 167 Raw . During dinner, go Italian at Le Farfalle . If you're still standing, end the night at longtime dive the Griffon for a round of darts and chef sightings. If beer bars aren't your thing, head over to the Gin Joint for a sophisticated cocktail.

North of Calhoun

With affordable rents in the early aughts, Upper King quickly became a hot spot for local entrepreneurs to try out newfangled restaurant ideas and for rising chefs to have their own space finally. The real estate market rose quickly, and the restaurants spread into the nearby neighborhoods of Cannonborough/Elliotborough , Radcliffeborough , Mazyck-Wraggborough , and Eastside .

In the morning, visit quaint cafe Babas on Cannon for pastries or a breakfast taco. Lunch is a tough decision: for Asian soul food, hit up Xiao Bao Biscuit ; for hip diner food visit the Rarebit ; for fried fish goodness stop by Dave's Carry-Out . Be sure to book a seat at Vietnamese spot Pink Bellies if you have a group. Or try for the neighborhood restaurant Vern’s (tables are released two weeks in advance). If you didn't make reservations on Upper King for dinner, veer from the foot traffic into Stella’s for a Greek fare. Or try Chez Nous to see if there’s a seat available. Fun seafood spot Chubby Fish doesn’t take reservations, so there might be a chance if you go early enough (like, 4:30 p.m.). Looking for a late-night spot? Stumble over to Sugey’s for the only heavy metal bar in Charleston.

Above The Crosstown

In the past three years, this region of the city has emerged as another frontier of innovation due to cheaper rents. If you're staying downtown, you could possibly walk to spots in North Central and Wagener Terrace, but NoMo is a trudge. If it's hot and you'd rather not risk crossing a multi-lane highway on foot, grab a bike or fire up a ride-sharing app.

Avocado toast and coffee at the Daily make for a good way to start the day. For lunch, relax with a plate of chargrilled oysters and fried chicken on Leon's patio. During happy hour, allow the fine staff at Edmund's Oast to pour you a creative cocktail or a hard-to-find beer from its massive collection. Have a few snacks at Edmund's, like the charcuterie plate, and then check out Santi’s for tacos and margaritas. If you’re in a meaty mood, check out Rodney Scott’s BBQ for pulled pork, and then head to Lewis Barbecue for brisket.

North Charleston

North Charleston may not have the scenic landscape of downtown Charleston, but it's a must-visit for its diversity of cuisines. It can be overwhelming to traverse the chain restaurants, but mom-and-pop places can be found in between. The burgeoning neighborhood of Park Circle is an easy start, but the best way to explore North Charleston is to check out this map of places to hit between downtown and the CHS Airport. Amazing tacos and Vietnamese fare await. If you're not on the way to catch a flight, put your name in for a table at EVO Pizzeria and wait across the street at hip wine bar Stems & Skins for a few glasses from the esoteric labels and interesting small plates. Once your table is ready at EVO, be sure to order the Pork Trifecta.

Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is suburbia. Yoga moms hang out at Whole Foods, and everyone drives SUVs — ok, not really , but you'll see a lot of that here. Stop by H&R Sweet Shop in the Old Village for lunch — with $4.75 burgers and dollar hot dogs, it's an experience from another decade. Grab a few cocktails at Tavern & Table to watch the sunset, and then head Kanpai for some of the best sushi in the Lowcountry.

Sullivan's Island

Due to its proximity to Mount Pleasant, Sullivan's Island is a preppy, family-friendly version of a Southern beach. If you're coming off the beach at Sullivan's, stop by Home Team BBQ for smoked wings and a frozen Gamechanger. If you've cleaned all the sand off yourself, pop in the Obstinate Daughter for seafood-heavy Italian fare, or try Sullivan’s Fish Camp for fresh fish and cold beer in a nautical-chics dining room.

West Ashley

Full of traffic and strip malls, at first look, West Ashley may leave a bit to be desired, but if you know how to navigate the highway, there are some gems. Early Bird Diner meets your morning needs for home cooking. Boxcar Betty's will feed you one of the best fried chicken sandwiches around for lunch. Glass Onion serves local Southern staples for dinner.

Folly Beach

Tattooed bohemians with a penchant for surfing will feel welcome at Folly Beach. You're bound to get hungry after some time in the ocean. At Folly, you'll find intriguing menus far from the traditional hot dogs and crab cracks. Stop by Jack of Cups for a rotating menu from locations all across the globe (the current offerings are Hungarian) or Chico Feo for curry goat. Folly knows how to keep it interesting.

Johns Island/James Island/Kiawah

How far would you like to stray from downtown? Definitely give Bar George a try for fun cocktails and Peruvian roasted chicken, or go across the street to Kwei Fei for loud music and spicy Sichuan fare. Visit whiskey-centric cocktail bar Seanachai before hitting Wild Olive for dinner. If you're looking to drop some major coin, keep driving to Kiawah for fine dining at the Ocean Room .

Charleston Glossary of Terms

Lowcountry:.

A geographic region along the coast of South Carolina, the term “Low Country” originally included all portions of the state below the Sandhills. Today, Lowcountry refers more specifically to the region hugging the coast, including the islands.

Lowcountry Boil:

If you’re a local, you know how to make this dish of corn, shrimp, sausage, and potatoes at home. But if you’re visiting, you should take a car out to  Bowen’s Island  for its version. The shack is shanty, but the beer is cold, and the views are spectacular.

She-Crab Soup:

An almost too-rich combination of cream, crab meat, roe, and sherry, she-crab soup is said to be a throwback recipe from 1920s Charleston. Why anyone would want to eat thick, hot bisque in the muggy Lowcountry weather is beyond us, but we suspect hotels fed this to visitors to make the Holy City seem sophisticated.

Gullah Geechee:

Gullah and Geechee refer to the people, language, and culture descended from enslaved West Africans in the Lowcountry. When they were freed in South Carolina, many migrated to the Sea Islands. Gullah Geechee cuisine draws from the resources readily available to those families, like rice, benne seeds, crabs, oysters, shrimp, seasonal vegetables, and other products pulled from the sea and land.

Carolina Gold Rice:

Carolina Gold rice was at the core of colonial Charleston’s economy and kitchens. The difficult production of the crop relied heavily on the labor of enslaved individuals, so with the abolition of slavery came the end of the grain. It wasn’t until Glenn Roberts founded Anson Mills in 1998 that the rice came back from near extinction and is now served on menus across the Lowcountry. If you have two minutes,  Mind of a Chef  explains the history with video  here .

The first time you try crab rice you’ll wonder why you hadn’t heard of this simple, yet satisfying, dish earlier in life. The presentation of crab rice is simple — it’s picked local crabs, lightly pan-fried, over white rice. It’s a humble dish but one born of deep Lowcountry roots.

Oyster Roast:

Place bushels of local oysters over a flame and cover with a wet sack to create an oyster roast. Tell friends to bring shuckers and beer, and it’s a party. Oyster roasts are a fall tradition and are as common as tailgate parties in football towns.  Bowen’s Island  allows you to sample the bounty of briny mollusks without all the work — well, except for the shucking.

Boiled Peanuts:

Green peanuts boiled in salted water until soft sound gross — until you try them. Perfect for baseball games or beach days, boiled peanuts (pronounced “bald” peanuts) are a Charleston staple.

Sean Brock:

You’ve probably seen celebrity chef Sean Brock on  Mind of a Chef  (or on every food blog and magazine preaching the gospel of Southern ingredients). The James Beard Award winner has an empire of restaurants in Charleston, which are quickly spreading across the nation. He left Charleston in 2018, but his influence is still felt.

Many consider Frank Lee one of the first pioneers of the modern culinary scene in Charleston. The man is a treasure chest of knowledge on all things Lowcountry. He stepped down from his executive chef position at  Slightly North of Broad , but you can still taste his influence in classic dishes like shrimp and grits or a local catch served with Carolina Gold rice.

Two Three Ways:

If you visited Charleston before 2006, then you may have noticed nothing but  mini-bottles behind the bars . South Carolina did not allow free pours of liquor until recently, so shot-seeking imbibers would order two 1.7-ounce bottles to be split amongst three people. Yeah, it was a dumb law, and has been dismantled for over ten years, but you’ll still hear people ordering shots this way today.

B.J. Dennis:

Consulting chef B.J. Dennis spreads the knowledge of Gullah Geechee culture and cuisine across the nation. Dennis started in fine dining restaurants, but now he’s spotted at pop-ups, private events, and  YouTube videos creating traditional dishes from the land.

James Beard Award-winning chef Mike Lata started  FIG  in 2003, and the restaurant just keeps getting better. Lata later went on to open seafood house  the Ordinary .

Jason Stanhope:

Chef Jason Stanhope joined the esteemed FIG in 2008. He was named executive chef of the Meeting Street restaurant in 2014 and  promptly won  a James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: Southeast in 2015. Now he runs chic hotel spots Lowland and the Quinte .

Reservations to Make in Advance

FIG (The restaurant releases seats four weeks in advance of the date — set alarms accordingly) and Vern’s

Follow the News

Eater Charleston is updated multiple times every weekday with breaking news stories (restaurant openings, closings, etc.), features, guides, and more. Here are a few ways to stay in the loop:

• Keep an eye on the Eater Carolinas . New stories will always show up near the top and flow down toward the bottom of the page as they get older, while important recent stories will stay pinned right at the top. Also, check out our big sister, Eater.com , for national and international food news.
• Subscribe to our newsletter , which goes out every Friday and includes links to the week's top stories.
• Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for updates on new stories and more throughout the day.

Get in Touch

Have questions not answered here? Want to send in a tip or a complaint or just say hello? Here are some ways to get in touch with the Eater Charleston staff:

• Email us at carolinas@ eater.com .
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Food & Wine Classic Releases $2,450 Ticket Package for Charleston Event

D.c.-based ghostburger pops up in charleston with crave-worthy creations, charleston’s kj kearney partners with pbs to explain that food is political.

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The Top Things to Do and See in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina

With a rich coast and varied landscape, Charleston , South Carolina , is no ordinary beach town. From the marshes on Shem Creek to the shores of Folly Beach, there’s plenty to explore. Travel inwards to King Street or George Street to find some of the best food the southeast US has to offer. And there’s plenty to learn from its antebellum architecture and significant historical monuments. We round up the best.

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Fort Sumter

Enjoy the historical roots of this southern city by paying a visit to the foremost site of the Civil War, Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. Opened as a tourist attraction in 1948, this national park is famous for having sustained the first shots of the war (by cannon fire), making the fortification a must-see for visitors. A guided tour, complete with narrated boat rides and walking sections, is available.

The indoor Charleston City Market stretches the length of nearly two blocks. And if it’s handicrafts you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. Browse the stalls for local artwork, woven baskets, antebellum apparel, candles, jewelry, pottery and more. The market is the perfect place to grab a souvenir and take in the cultural fabric of this charming town.

Joe Riley Waterfront Park

Stretching 8 acres (3ha) alongside the Cooper River, the Joe Riley Waterfront Park features a 1,250ft (381m) pier over Charleston Harbor. Take a walk along the many pathways and witness the sights of nature – if you’re lucky, you may spot a crane taking flight by the oceanside. Two large fountains are the most decorative features of the park and the spectacular views and sea breeze give you a chance to unwind away from the city bustle.

As a coastal town, Charleston isn’t short of boat tour offerings, whether it’s on Shem Creek, Cooper River or other watercourses. For a historic tour, Charleston Harbor is the best option. If you’re in search of a deep-sea fishing adventure, several boat lines offer that too. And let’s not forget the availability of watersports such as jet-skiing and flyboarding.

South Carolina Aquarium

This spacious attraction, on Charleston Harbor, featuring jellyfish, horseshoe crabs, loggerhead sea turtles, alligators, sharks, birds and even snakes, will entertain all the family. The Touch Tank allows you to stroke Atlantic stingrays, crabs and other marine animals. Meanwhile, the Saltmarsh Aviary exhibit showcases features of the Charleston environment, allowing you to learn more about the city’s natural surroundings.

The Battery

The Battery – a paved, public walk lined with many antebellum homes – offers a delight of pastel edifices, picket fences and gates. The scenic promenade features Southern mansions, old cannons and plaques denoting the historical significance. Rich in history, with a spectacular view of Fort Sumter, it is one of downtown Charleston’s most famous attractions.

Folly Beach

Folly Beach is one of the area’s best surf spots, with the waves teeming with watersport adventurers. A resilient survivor of hurricanes, it continues to attract crowds daily until the sun goes down. Check out the Folly Beach Sea and Sand Festival – think carnival games, a parade and live music by several artists. If you want to see the world by sea, check out our collection of Sailing Trips – premium small-group getaways with unforgettable sea adventures.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best boutique hotels to book in charleston, south carolina.

The Best Bed and Breakfasts to Book in Charleston, South Carolina

The Best Hotels to Book in Charleston's French Quarter

The Best Hotels to Book Near the South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston

The Best Hotels to Book Near Charleston City Market

Pillow Talk: Between the Sheets of Emeline Hotel, Charleston

The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels to Book in Charleston, South Carolina

The Best Hotels to Book Near the Citadel, Charleston

The Best Hotels to Book Near the Angel Oak Tree, Charleston

See & Do

Things to do at night in charleston, south carolina.

Best Day Trips From Charleston, South Carolina

The Most Haunted Places to Visit in Charleston, South Carolina

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Best places to visit in south carolina.

With good-looking cities and towns, sandy beaches and Lowcountry locales, South Carolina is home to spellbinding destinations that promise carefree vacations. From the shores of Hilton Head Island to Charleston's historic district, the Palmetto State's timeless appeal can make it difficult to narrow down vacation plans. To help you make decisions, U.S. News considered cultural offerings, cuisine, the friendliness of locals and more to rank this list of the best places to visit in South Carolina. Read below to map out your trip, and be sure to vote for destinations you love to help us with next year's list.

Charleston, SC

Hilton head, kiawah island, greenville, sc, georgetown, sc, myrtle beach, huntington beach state park, congaree national park, caesars head state park.

The charms of this coastal city can't be overstated, and travelers from across the country have taken notice. Civil War history buffs can tour Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, savvy Instagrammers can take advantage of photo ops along The Battery and Rainbow Row, and sun seekers can flock to Folly Beach and other nearby stretches of sand. Plus, everyone will enjoy sampling Charleston's world-class Southern cuisine, including staples like shrimp and grits, roasted oysters and she-crab soup.

Located about 100 miles southwest of Charleston, Hilton Head Island caters to travelers seeking a slow-paced vacation. Much less developed than other beach options like Myrtle Beach and North Carolina's Outer Banks, Hilton Head Island boasts 12-plus miles of pristine shoreline. Coligny Beach Park offers a wealth of facilities, such as adjacent shops and restaurants, but those looking for less-crowded sands should seek out the beach access point at Alder Lane. What's more, Hilton Head has earned the nickname "Golf Island" for its dozens of championship courses.

With 10 miles of undisturbed beaches, renowned golf courses and top-notch resorts , Kiawah Island has all the essentials for a serene (albeit costly) beach vacation. Kiawah Island (located about 30 miles southwest of Charleston) features smooth beaches that are great for biking, lounging and spotting bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles. Meanwhile, novice golfers can attend clinics at a learning center, while pros can take on the challenging Ocean Course (notorious for its wind). Come mealtime, visitors can find everything from ice cream parlors to upscale dining at the island's resorts or the picture-perfect Freshfields Village.

Beaufort's quaint oak tree-lined streets and Civil War-era homes provide a glimpse into the small town's antebellum days. Sign up for a walking or horse-drawn carriage tour to take in your surroundings, then visit the Beaufort History Museum to learn more about the town's past. You'll also want to check out Penn Center on the nearby St. Helena Island to educate yourself about Gullah culture. Once you've gotten your fill of history, head to the Beaufort River to kayak or paddleboard, or make your way to the Port Royal Cypress Wetlands and Rookery for a couple of hours of bird-watching.

Although Greenville doesn’t receive throngs of visitors like other South Carolina destinations, it's one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, meaning it may not remain a hidden gem for much longer. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville has earned a reputation as a hub for outdoor activities. Head to Falls Park on the Reedy to walk across its impressive Liberty Bridge or bike the 28-mile Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail. In town, catch a show at the Peace Center, stroll down Main Street or mingle with friendly locals at a brewery.

This small town between Charleston and Myrtle Beach packs in a lot of history. Get the lay of the land with a tram tour in the historic district, where you'll find attractions that tell disparate stories of life before the Civil War, from Georgian mansions like the Kaminski House Museum to The Rice Museum, which details Georgetown's impactful rice plantation economy. A boat tour can also take you past plantations like Hopsewee Plantation and Hobcaw Barony, which call attention to Native American and Gullah culture and the slave experience. Back in town, the Harborwalk is worth a stroll for its restaurants, shops and art galleries. 

Myrtle Beach, one of the most iconic East Coast beach destinations , is especially popular with families thanks to its wealth of kid-friendly attractions (think: miniature golf courses and Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach). But visitors of all ages will enjoy spending time by the water. Myrtle Beach's 60-mile stretch of coastline is ideal for relaxing, and the gentle water makes it an excellent place to swim, fish, paddleboard and kayak. To get a dose of nature without rubbing elbows with hordes of tourists, travelers can head to Myrtle Beach State Park, which offers equestrian trails, playgrounds, a campground and a fishing pier.

Situated less than 17 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach State Park offers an escape from the busyness of South Carolina's better-known beaches. You can swim, fish and go boating at its 3-mile-long undeveloped beach. Additionally, more than 300 bird species call this park home; walk along Huntington Beach's two nature trails to access some of its best places for bird-watching (you may also spot some alligators). Don't forget to save time for a guided tour of Moorish-style Atalaya Castle and a visit to Brookgreen Gardens to marvel at its flowers and sculptures.

Central South Carolina's Congaree National Park is home to North America's largest stretch of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest, making it an excellent place to go hiking. Congaree boasts more than 27 miles of trails and boardwalks suitable for all skill levels, including the shorter Boardwalk Loop Trail and longer paths like the Weston Lake Trail and the Oakridge Trail that are havens for birds, wild turkeys and deer. When you're not exploring its beautiful forest, spend a few hours fishing in Congaree National Park's lakes or canoeing or kayaking down Cedar Creek.

Caesars Head State Park stuns visitors with an easily accessible overlook that grants sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Escarpment's 2,000-foot drop. This outcropping is just the starting point for exploring the park, which sits roughly 30 miles northwest of Greenville on the North Carolina-South Carolina border. Sixty-plus miles of trails lead to sights like the Devil's Kitchen, where hikers can clamber between narrow walls of a mountain that's been split in two, and Raven Cliff Falls, which rewards those who complete the 2-mile trail with a 420-foot cascade. Fishing and bird-watching (particularly during the fall hawk migration) are also popular things to do.

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Odd Duck Market

Updated by business owner over 3 months ago

Review Highlights

“ Going back I overheard a chocolate macadamia latte being ordered and nearly fell over with joy. ” in 2 reviews

“ The prosciutto is so good on the focaccia and something about the sausage they use is so flavorful. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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1082 E Montague Ave

North Charleston, SC 29405

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• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
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Overall rating

What a fun shop/cafe/grocer in Park Circle! It is a jack of all trades! I absolutely loved my chai. My husband had the blueberry danish and I had the cookie sandwich. I didn't try the Danish, but he said it was excellent. My cookie sandwich was awesome! The staff was friendly and helpful. If we were not going to get food elsewhere, I would have absolutely gotten one of the Italian sandwiches! It sounded exceptional. There is street parking with several other fun shops and restaurants located nearby.

See all photos from Aly W. for Odd Duck Market

Cute little place. Nice variety of options for shopping from chips and vegetables to wine. We stopped in for lunch for the first time this past weekend. Sadly, they were out of foccacia bread, and the only option was to get a sandwich on an everything bagel or as a wrap. We opted for a wrap. I got the "turkey," and it was fresh, moist, and pretty tasty. The staff was very friendly and offered suggestions and options for alternatives if something was not available. Will definitely stop again and hope to try the foccacia next time!

OMG love this spot. Love Love The egg white, arugula, tomato paste on bialy is to die for. The coffee is superb The market and artisan items are super cool, fresh and local. The staff is always happy. I can't rate the sweets but they look awesome and the croissants may be the biggest in the Lowcountry. Do breakfast here!!!

See all photos from Mark L. for Odd Duck Market

Been waiting to check this place out and it's most definitely a new favorite! First, it's super cute and had local items in the shop, plus beer and wine and more. But what really sold me was the variety of gluten free options! I had coffee cake which was really good, definitely have to go back to try donuts and muffins. The coffee was also really good! Plus they have a cute courtyard out back to sit and enjoy or get some work done.

If you're looking for a breakfast sandwich that will knock your socks off, then Odd Duck Market is the place for you. Their byali bread is so good, it's practically a religious experience. And their prosciutto egg sandwich on focaccia is so delicious, you'll be dreaming about it long after you've finished eating it. The neighborhood and vibes at Odd Duck Market are also great. It's a laid-back, friendly place where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast sandwich and a cup of coffee without feeling rushed. And the service is quick and friendly. Overall, Odd Duck Market is a must-visit for anyone who loves breakfast sandwiches. It's the perfect place to start your day off right!

We're very lucky to have this coffee shop/market/sandwich shop added to our already stellar downtown Park Circle collection. The staff was so friendly and accommodating and the service was excellent. I enjoyed a bagel sandwich made to order and a fresh hot latte. The Odd Duck has a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere and it has certainly made it on to my list of regular stops.

See all photos from Linda D. for Odd Duck Market

Upon entering, it seems like your usual grocery / gourmet restaurant. The staff greet you with a smile. There are many gluten free options. The roast beef sandwich was amazing! There was a wide selection of beverages. The interior decor looked amazing. The restaurant appeared to have a credo of community gatherings and bringing people together. There was a community bulletin board and the staff seemed to get along well. Overall, it was a good experience.

See all photos from Seth B. for Odd Duck Market

I've been here a couple times now and I'm loving this addition to Park Circle. Right away I checked out the market stuff and they have some great finds. I've been wanting to try the Momofuku chilli crisp so I picked up a jar of that. Currently they're open daily until 3pm which is great to have a breakfast sandwich option that late any day of the week. I have tried a few of them now and they are fantastic. The prosciutto is so good on the focaccia and something about the sausage they use is so flavorful. They are using Second State coffee which is a delicious local roaster and the coffee drinks are top notch. I can't wait to try the lunch sandwiches and I hear they are working on getting a license to sell beer and wine too. The circle definitely needs a place for grab and go so welcome to the neighborhood Odd Duck Market.

See all photos from Scotty C. for Odd Duck Market

This new spot in Park Circle is one I hope to see stick around for a long time. The staff were super friendly and eager to help. The market section has a fun selection of beer, wine, THC/CBD drinks, local foods (from spots like Rio Bertollini's and Sarah's Dumps), fresh produce, cookbooks, and beauty products. The menu is simple but great. The blood orange spritz and chocolate macadamia latte were fantastic. The baked goods seem to be primarily from local bakers. There's indoor and outdoor seating. Honestly, just a great little spot. Definitely check it out the next time you're in PC!

See all photos from Alyssa S. for Odd Duck Market

I've been eyeing this spot as it's been coming along in anticipation for this opening! First things first, I absolutely LOVE the aesthetic and the fact that they have a little bit of everything. Seriously - produce, meat, mixers, snacks, skincare, pastries, coffee, sushi...you name it! Everything seemed to be either local brands or smaller brands, which I ADORE. The cashiers working the station were both very pleasant and let us know that since it was a soft opening, they only had a handful of syrup options, so I went with a vanilla oat milk latte and LET ME TELL YOU - it was one of the best iced lattes I've had. I absolutely see myself stopping in here once a week at a minimum and am so happy they are in Park Circle!

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