Charleston, SC is a beautiful city full of history and culture for the entire family to enjoy exploring!
Take a harbor tour
See Charleston from a whole different viewpoint…out on the water. There are lots of companies that provide tours…including some on sail boats! You’ll likely see a dolphin or two while you’re at it. There are also ferries that can provide transportation to some of the other local sights including Fort Sumter, USS Yorktown, etc.
South Carolina Aquarium
Located right on the water, the South Carolina Aquarium offers a close up view of the wonders of the ocean. Fun for all ages! They even have a special sea turtle rehabilitation center where they care for injured sea turtles until they can be released back into the wild.
Appreciate the architecture
Several historic houses are open for tours. Including the Nathaniel Russell House, Drayton Hall, the Aiken-Rhett House, the Williams Mansion, the Edmonston-Alston House, and the Heyward-Washington House.
The Charleston Museum
Founded all the way back in 1773, the Charleston Museum focuses on local low country history, including a special interactive kid’s area.
Angel Oak
The Angel Oak is a massive live oak tree estimated to be around 400 years old. Best of all, it’s free to visit!
Learn about nautical history
If nautical or military history are your thing, Charleston has two ships that may be of interest: the USS Yorktown, a WWII aircraft carrier , and the H.L. Hunley, a 1863 Confederate submarine.
Fort Sumter
Though Fort Sumter played an important role in the American Revolution, it is best remembered as the location where the Civil War first began. You’ll need to catch a ferry out to the island to visit.
See how tea is produced
Visit the Charleston Tea Estate to see how tea is grown and enjoy a tasting of Bigelow tea. Pick up some locally grown tea to take home as a souvenir. (Did you know the US grows tea? Check out these other US tea producers that you can visit.)
Enjoy beautiful gardens
The warm wet weather in Charleston is perfect for growing things. Enjoy a leisurely walk through incredible gardens at places such as Middleton Place, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens.
Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon
Once the heart of Charleston’s commerce and trade, this building has been an important part in much of Charleston’s history. Take a guided tour of the dungeon and then explore the upper floors of the building on your own.
Old Slave Mart Museum
Located in an old slave market, the Old Slave Mart Museum takes an honest look at some of Charleston’s tragic past.
Take a themed tour
There are a ton of walking, carriage, and trolley tours offered on a variety of topics such as ghost tours, architecture, Revolutionary and Civil War history, etc.
Drink local brews
Charleston is home to lots of local breweries and distilleries including: Firefly Distillery, Palmetto Brewing, Frothy Beard Brewing, Revelry Brewing, and Deep Water Vineyard.
Walk along the water
Both the Battery and Waterfront Park offer great views and an opportunity to stretch your legs.
Relax on the beach
Charleston has several nearby beaches that are prefect for a relaxing day by the water including Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Bull Island.
Cross the Cooper River Bridge on foot
I am NOT a fan of heights, but if you’re brave enough you can cross the Arthur Ravenel Jr./Cooper River Bridge on foot. They even have an annual race across the structure.
Visit Charleston’s cemeteries
Explore Charleston’s cemeteries…some of which predate the birth of the nation!
