Best Things To Do and See in Charleston, SC

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Believe or not, Charleston, South Carolina is one of the coolest cities you’ll ever visit. Its restaurant scene is on point and its Southern charm is off the charts.

This article will cover some great things to do in Charleston for a weekend or even during the week.

The Coolest Things To Do In Charleston

No matter if you’re taking a road trip or finding cheap fares to flying into Charleston International Airport, the city is very accessible. Its rich history, culture, and natural beauty make it one of the best places in the Southeast to visit.

Here are some cool things to do in Charleston:

Visit the Historic District

Explore the cobblestone streets and historic buildings in Charleston’s Historic District, which is known for its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere.

Visit Historic Homes and Museums: Charleston is home to several historic homes and museums that offer insights into the city’s past. Places like the Nathaniel Russell House, the Aiken-Rhett House, and the Charleston Museum provide glimpses into different aspects of Charleston’s history and culture.
Stroll along The Battery: The Battery is a historic defensive seawall and promenade that offers beautiful views of Charleston Harbor. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, admire the antebellum mansions, and enjoy the sea breeze.
Explore the City Market: The Charleston City Market is a historic market stretching four city blocks and featuring a wide range of vendors selling art, crafts, food, and more. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and soak in the local atmosphere.
Visit Historic Churches: Charleston is home to several historic churches with beautiful architecture and significant historical importance. St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, the Circular Congregational Church, and the French Huguenot Church are just a few examples worth visiting.

Explore the Area’s Geechee Gullah Culture

The Gullah Geechee people traced their history and culture to the descendants of enslaved West and Central Africans who populated the Carolinas and lived off the area’s coastal rice and African cuisine.

There are several historic sites and museums dedicated to preserving and interpreting Gullah Geechee history and culture. These sites often feature exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs that offer a deeper understanding of the Gullah Geechee experience.

Food is an important part of Gullah Geechee culture, featuring dishes that blend African, European, and Native American culinary traditions. Exploring Gullah Geechee cuisine can involve trying traditional dishes at local restaurants or attending cooking demonstrations and workshops.

Tour the Plantations

Charleston is surrounded by beautiful plantations with stunning gardens and historic homes. Popular plantations to visit include:

Boone Hall Plantation
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Middleton Place

Chill Out on the Beach

Charleston is located near several beautiful beaches, including Folly Beach and Isle of Palms. Spend a day relaxing on the sand, swimming in the ocean, or enjoying water sports like surfing or kayaking.

Out top three beaches in the Charleston area are:

Folly Beach

Folly Beach is a vibrant beach community known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing spots, and fishing pier. It’s a popular destination for beachgoers and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Isle of Palms

The Isle of Palms is a family-friendly beach with a wide stretch of sandy shoreline. It’s known for its clean, clear waters and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities.

Sullivan’s Island

Sullivan’s Island is a quiet and scenic beach destination known for its natural beauty and historic charm. It’s a popular spot for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Explore the Restaurant Scene

Charleston is known for its fantastic food scene, especially its Southern cuisine. Take a food tour, dine at one of the many acclaimed restaurants, or visit the Charleston Farmers Market to sample local produce and artisanal goods.

Some good places to eat in Charleston that we love:

Xiao Bao Biscuit

Xiao Bao Biscuit offers an eclectic menu that blends Asian flavors with Southern ingredients. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes and casual, welcoming atmosphere.

167 Raw

167 Raw is a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and other seafood dishes. It offers a casual dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients.

Leon’s Oyster Shop

Leon’s Oyster Shop is a laid-back restaurant known for its fried chicken, oysters, and other Southern-inspired dishes. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a casual dining experience.

Visit Fort Sumter

History buffs will enjoy a visit to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Take a ferry ride to the fort and explore the museum and historic site.

Walk along the Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is a beautiful waterfront park with scenic views of the Charleston Harbor. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, relax in the shade of the trees, or cool off in the splash fountain.

Don’t want to walk? You can actually enjoy a nice slow ride along the waterfront street as well or even park your vehicle and just sit to enjoy the waves, wind and seagulls.

Shop on King Street

King Street is Charleston’s premier shopping destination, featuring a mix of high-end boutiques, local shops, and art galleries. Spend some time browsing the shops and finding unique souvenirs.

Lower King Street is known for its historic charm and a mix of local shops, art galleries, antique stores, and specialty shops. This area offers a more eclectic shopping experience with a focus on unique finds and local craftsmanship.

The Fashion District on King Street is home to a variety of clothing stores, from trendy boutiques to classic fashion retailers. You can find a wide range of styles and price points in this area.The Design District is known for its home decor and design stores, offering everything from furniture and lighting to home accessories and interior design services.

Visit the South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is a fun and educational attraction for visitors of all ages. Explore the exhibits showcasing marine life from the South Carolina coast and beyond.

Enjoy the Arts

Charleston has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. Check out the local art galleries, catch a performance at the Dock Street Theatre, or attend a live music event.

Final Word

Finally, a guide that offers some real things for the common person to do and enjoy. f you’re interested in antiques and vintage finds, the Antique District on King Street is the place to go. You’ll find antique shops specializing in furniture, art, collectibles, and more.

New Orleans is a foodie paradise, and its festivals are no exception. Each event boasts a distinct culinary identity, from the spicy gumbo and po’boys of French Quarter Fest to the Creole and Cajun delicacies of the Treme Creole Gumbo Festival. Every bite is an explosion of flavor that complements the festive atmosphere.