Charleston, South Carolina, is steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its cobblestone streets and historic architecture to its stunning beaches and world-renowned cuisine, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this charming Southern city. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Charleston. In this blog post, we’ll share the top 10 things to do in Charleston to help you plan your next visit to this incredible destination. So, grab a sweet tea, sit back, and let’s dive into the best that Charleston has to offer.
1. Visit The Battery
When visiting Charleston, one of the top destinations to add to your list is The Battery. This iconic park in downtown Charleston boasts beautiful views of the Charleston Harbor. It is home to a collection of well-preserved antebellum homes that showcase the city’s rich history and architecture. The Battery is a perfect place to stroll, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax on a bench and soak up the sun. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend the day, The Battery is not to be missed.
Address: Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Google map of The Battery
2. Explore Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Located just outside Charleston, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Southern history and culture. This beautiful plantation dates back to the 17th century and is one of the oldest plantations in the South. The highlight of Magnolia Plantation is its stunning gardens, which feature a wide variety of native and exotic plants, as well as beautiful water features and wildlife. Visitors can take a guided tour of the plantation, explore the gardens independently, or even take a boat tour through the property’s rice fields. With so much to see and do, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a perfect place to spend a day in Charleston.
Address: Charleston, SC 29414, United States
Official website: https://www.magnoliaplantation.com/
Google map of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
3. Visit the Middleton Place
Middleton Place is a National Historic Landmark and a top attraction in Charleston, South Carolina. This plantation, established in the 17th century, boasts exquisite gardens, an impressive house museum, and an interactive stableyard showcasing enslaved Africans’ daily lives and their influence on Southern culture. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the house and gardens, take a nature walk through the surrounding forest, or simply relax on the lawn and take in the stunning views of the Ashley River. Middleton Place offers a unique glimpse into the history of the South and is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Charleston.
Address: 4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States
Official website: http://www.middletonplace.org/
Google map of Middleton Place
4. Explore The Gibbes Museum of Art
The Gibbes Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for art lovers in Charleston. This museum is home to a stunning collection of American art, with a particular emphasis on works from the South. The building is an architectural gem, with a beautiful classical façade recently restored to its original splendor. In addition to its permanent collection, the Gibbes hosts rotating exhibits showcasing contemporary artists and emerging talent. Visitors can take a guided museum tour, attend a workshop or lecture, or simply wander the galleries and take in beautiful works of art. A visit to the Gibbes Museum of Art is a perfect way to experience the rich cultural heritage of Charleston.
Address: 135 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Official website: http://www.gibbesmuseum.org/
Google map of Gibbes Museum of Art
5. Visit the Rainbow Row
Rainbow Row is one of the most iconic and recognizable destinations in Charleston. This row of 13 brightly colored historic houses on East Bay Street is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. The houses date back to the 18th century and were originally used as storefronts for merchants. Today, they are a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone street and admire the colorful facades or explore the unique boutiques and restaurants housed within the buildings. Rainbow Row is a beautiful and vibrant destination that captures the spirit of Charleston.
Address: 83-107 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Official website:http://rainbowrowcharlestonsc.com/
Google map of Rainbow Row
6. Explore the Charleston City Market
The Charleston City Market is a vibrant destination that offers a unique shopping experience in the heart of downtown Charleston. This historic market dates back to the early 1800s and is home to over 300 vendors who sell everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to local food products and souvenirs. Visitors can stroll through the market’s open-air stalls and shop for one-of-a-kind treasures or grab a bite to eat at one of the many food vendors. The market also hosts events throughout the year, such as live music performances and art shows. A visit to the Charleston City Market is a perfect way to experience the vibrant culture of Charleston and bring home a piece of its rich history.
Address: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Official website: http://www.thecharlestoncitymarket.com/
Google map of Charleston City Market
7. Take a Stroll at Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is one of the most beautiful and tranquil destinations in Charleston. Located on Charleston Harbor, this park is perfect for relaxing and enjoying stunning water views and the city skyline. The park features a winding pathway that takes visitors through beautiful gardens and past iconic landmarks such as the Pineapple Fountain. It’s a popular destination for tourists and locals, who take a stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of Charleston Harbor.
Address: Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Google map of Waterfront Park Pier
8. Visit The Old Slave Mart Museum
The Old Slave Mart Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about Charleston’s complex history. Located on Chalmers Street in the heart of downtown Charleston, this museum tells the story of the slave trade in Charleston and its impact on African American culture and history. The museum is housed in a historic building that was once a slave auction gallery. It features exhibits that explore the harsh realities of the slave trade and the resilience of enslaved Africans and their descendants. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum, view historical artifacts, and learn about the lives of the people bought and sold at the auction block.
Address: 6 Chalmers St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Official website: http://oldslavemartmuseum.com/
Google map of Old Slave Mart Museum
9. Visit the Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Sumter National Monument is a destination steeped in American history and a must-visit for anyone interested in the Civil War. This fort, located on an island in Charleston Harbor, was the site of the first shots fired in the Civil War and played a pivotal role in the conflict. Visitors can take a ferry to the island, explore the fort’s many exhibits, including historic artillery and cannon displays, and learn about the key events on its grounds. The fort offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Address: South Carolina 29412, United States
Official website: http://www.nps.gov/fosu/contacts.htm
Google map of Fort Sumter National Monument
10. Exploring Historic Masonry
Exploring historic masonry is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Charleston who appreciates architecture and history. The city has countless historic buildings featuring beautiful and intricate masonry work. From the colorful brickwork on Rainbow Row to the stunning stone facades of the city’s churches and public buildings, there is no shortage of stunning examples of masonry to admire. Since we are mentioning the beauty of historic masonry in Charleston, it’s important to highlight the importance of hiring a skilled and experienced masonry contractor. Regarding preserving and restoring the city’s historic buildings and landmarks, Charleston Masonry is one of the best in the business. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the unique challenges and intricacies of working with historic masonry, Charleston Masonry has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional results.
Address:80 Ashley Hall Plantation Rd Ste. A, Charleston, SC 29407, United States
Official website: https://charlestonmasonry.com/
Google map of Charleston Masonry
Charleston is a city steeped in history and culture, with many attractions and activities to explore. From the stunning natural beauty of its parks and gardens to the rich history and architecture of its buildings and landmarks, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Charleston has something for everyone. A visit to this charming and beautiful city is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.