The city of Charleston, South Carolina is known for its rich history and recently as the filming site for several period-piece television shows. It’s no wonder why this quaint Southern town has become so well-known. The city overflows with beautiful architecture from the 17th century, homes perched on tree-lined streets, cobblestone roads, and gardens that stretch for blocks.
With an abundance of things to do in Charleston SC, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the city while exploring its various attractions such as historical landmarks, museums, and gardens. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride or stroll through one of the many gardens that dot the landscape.
Why is Charleston so popular?
Charleston is one of the most popular cities in the US, and it’s easy to see why. With its old-world charm, timeless architecture, and incredible coastal setting, it’s a city that is both charming and sophisticated. And it’s surrounded by nature, making it a city that’s easy to get around, yet full of things to do. There’s an abundance of history and culture, plus a host of outdoor activities, including surfing and scuba diving. It’s a city that is welcoming to everyone, and for all sorts of travelers, from families to couples and solo travelers. It’s a city that is easily adaptable, but also one that will charm you from the moment you step foot in it.
Fun Things to do in Charleston SC
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly day trip or an adults-only evening excursion, you will find something that piques your interest right here.
Here are our top 8 things to do in Charleston SC:
Explore the Historic District by Foot
No visit to Charleston would be complete without a walk along the cobblestone streets of the Historic District. The city is rich with architecture from the 17th and 18th centuries, and many of the buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Be sure to check out the Church of the Holy Trinity, the Unitarian Church, the Moulton Street Jail, and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. If you’re visiting during the fall, don’t miss the spectacular Carolina-Gaiety Festival of Flowers. Planting gardens are a tradition in Charleston, and many of the gardens found throughout the Historic District are open to the public.
Visit the Charleston Museum
As the oldest museum in the South, the Charleston Museum displays items that span thousands of years, including Egyptian mummies and interactive exhibits for children. Visitors can explore the history and culture of the city by visiting the museum’s many galleries, or by attending one of the many events held throughout the year. Some of the events at the museum include the Science Café series, yoga and tai chi classes, and a family day.
Watch The Audience Live at the Foote Theatre
The Foote Theatre is known for its live performances, and many visitors come to Charleston to attend a show. The theatre hosts a wide variety of performances all year long and is the only theatre in the city that shows Broadway productions. From musical theatre to comedy shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Foote Theatre.
Attend a Live Performance at the Morris Centre
If you’re visiting in the spring, you won’t want to miss the Morris Centre’s popular Camellia Festival. The center is home to more than 15,000 camellia plants, and they are beautiful during the spring. The center also hosts a things to do in charleston sc variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibits, and holiday festivals.
Go on a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
There’s no better way to see the beauty of Charleston SC than by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride along the waterfront or through the Historic District. Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city while sitting back and relaxing in the carriage. A horse-drawn carriage ride is a great activity to do with the family, or it can make for a romantic date night.
Enjoy a Delicious Meal at One of the Many Restaurants
There are many award-winning restaurants in Charleston, and visitors will have a difficult time choosing where to eat. A few popular restaurants include Cypress, Ordinary, and FIG, but there are many more to choose from. Be sure to check out the menus before visiting to make sure the food is something you’d enjoy eating. If you’re looking for a more casual meal, there are several restaurants that serve delicious hamburgers.
Hampton History Museum and Slave Dwelling Museum
The Hampton History Museum is a great place to start your exploration of Charleston’s past. It is the oldest museum in South Carolina and is located in Hampton Park in downtown Charleston. The museum has a lot of pictures, artifacts, and information about the history of the Lowcountry, including information about the Gullah people who have inhabited the area for centuries. The Gullah culture has a unique and rich history that is often overlooked by the rest of the country. It is important to learn more about these proud people who have thrived in this part of the world for generations. The museum also has a lot of information about the history of slavery in the Lowcountry. Something that is often overlooked by the mainstream media.
