20 Top Places to Visit & Things To Do in Charleston

Immerse yourself in Southern charm and historic grandeur with our comprehensive guide to the top places to visit and things to do in Charleston, South Carolina. This centuries-old port city, nestled on a peninsula flanked by the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, has won hearts worldwide with its cobblestone streets, elegant antebellum mansions, and warm hospitality. From exploring the city’s rich history and unique architectural heritage to indulging in world-class cuisine and shopping at unique local boutiques, Charleston offers an array of experiences that will captivate any traveler. With its diverse blend of culture, history, nature, and culinary delights, Charleston’s charm is as enduring as the live oaks that grace its landscape. So step back in time, soak up the Southern charm, and discover the unique experiences that await you in this remarkable coastal city.

The Battery

Experience a blend of history, beauty, and Southern charm at The Battery, one of Charleston’s most iconic landmarks. Located at the southernmost tip of the Charleston peninsula where the Ashley and Cooper rivers meet, The Battery is steeped in history and offers stunning waterfront views.

The Battery’s promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing sit on one of its many benches. As you walk along, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a variety of historic antebellum mansions, including the opulent Edmondston-Alston House and the famous pastel-colored “Rainbow Row”. These grand homes showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage with their elegant Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian styles.

Another notable feature of The Battery is the historic defensive seawall, originally built in the early 19th century for protection against invaders. Along the seawall, you can find White Point Garden, a picturesque park filled with grand oak trees, beautiful flowers, and several monuments commemorating Charleston’s military history, including statues, cannons, and a bandstand.

Visiting The Battery is like stepping back in time. The beautiful blend of historical significance, architectural grandeur, and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination when in Charleston.

Address: Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Open in Google Maps

Rainbow Row

Experience one of the most iconic and photographed areas in Charleston, South Carolina – Rainbow Row. This enchanting series of thirteen brightly-colored historic homes stretch along East Bay Street, creating a vibrant display of hues that immediately catch the eye. This captivating stretch got its name from the pastel shades the houses are painted in, ranging from soft pinks to vibrant blues and sunny yellows.

Rainbow Row’s charm is deeply rooted in its history. These Georgian-style homes, built in the mid-18th century, were once the commercial center of the city, with merchants living upstairs and conducting their business downstairs. The area fell into disrepair after the Civil War but was revitalized in the early 20th century when the homes were purchased and restored by local residents. It was during this time that the homes were painted in the beautiful pastel colors that give Rainbow Row its name.

A walk down Rainbow Row is more than just an opportunity for a great photo; it’s a journey back in time. With its rich history and unique beauty, it is a must-see when visiting Charleston. Each house has its own story, adding to the narrative tapestry of this historic city. So, take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the delightful mix of colors, and immerse yourself in the historic charm of Rainbow Row.

Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon

Step back in time and delve deep into Charleston’s rich history at the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, one of the city’s most important and historic colonial buildings. Located at the end of the famous Broad Street, this national landmark has stood since 1771 and witnessed countless pivotal events in American history.

The Old Exchange building, a beautiful example of Georgian-Palladian architecture, was initially used for a variety of civic functions, including a mercantile exchange and custom house. It’s here where the South Carolina assembly ratified the U.S. Constitution in 1788. The building also hosted numerous galas and social events, including balls for President George Washington during his week-long visit to Charleston in 1791.

Beneath the Old Exchange building, you’ll find the Provost Dungeon. In the late 1700s, this cellar was used by British forces to house prisoners during the Revolutionary War. As you tour the dungeon, you’ll hear tales of pirates, patriots, and other figures who were once imprisoned within its damp, eerie walls.

Today, knowledgeable guides in period costume lead visitors through the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, bringing to life the stories of the people who shaped the history of Charleston and the United States. It’s not just a tour, but an immersive experience that’s sure to captivate history buffs and casual visitors alike.

Website: www.oldexchange.org
Address: 122 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Open in Google Maps

Middleton Place Plantation

Discover the rich history and stunning beauty of Middleton Place Plantation, a National Historic Landmark located just a short drive from downtown Charleston. With its meticulously preserved house museum, magnificent gardens, and enduring plantation stable yards, Middleton Place offers a window into the opulence and complexity of the Antebellum South.

The centerpiece of Middleton Place is the House Museum, originally built in 1755 as a gentleman’s guest quarters and now the only remaining portion of the grand residential complex that once stood on the property. It is filled with exquisite furniture, silver, porcelain, rare books, and portraits, most of which originally belonged to the Middleton family, who were influential figures in American history.

Adjacent to the House Museum are the Middleton Place Gardens, America’s oldest landscaped gardens. Here, you’ll find meticulously manicured terraces, blooming seasonal flowers, and majestic live oaks draped with Spanish moss. The gardens are designed in the style of a classic 17th-century European formal garden, with geometric patterns and vistas that draw your eye towards the Ashley River.

Another fascinating feature of Middleton Place is the Plantation Stableyards, which vividly portray life on an 18th and 19th-century South Carolina rice plantation. Live demonstrations of heritage breed animals and crafts like blacksmithing and weaving provide a deeper understanding of the labor that sustained such estates.

While a visit to Middleton Place offers a glimpse of the grandeur and beauty of an era long past, it also provides a nuanced understanding of the complexities of history, including the enslaved people whose labor made such estates possible. A visit to Middleton Place offers a thought-provoking and deeply enriching experience that’s a must for any visit to Charleston.

Website: www.middletonplace.org
Address: 4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States
Open in Google Maps

Visit Waterfront Park

Enjoy the serene beauty of Charleston’s Waterfront Park, a delightful green space that offers picturesque views of the Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River. This well-loved park, located in the heart of the historic district, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, providing a tranquil escape amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Spanning over 1,000 feet along the harbor, Waterfront Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or simply soaking in the beautiful waterfront views. One of the park’s most iconic features is the Pineapple Fountain, a large fountain shaped like a pineapple – a universal symbol of hospitality. It’s a favorite among visitors and makes for a great photo opportunity.

Further along the park, you’ll find another popular feature, the palmetto-lined pier. Here, you can relax on one of the many swings or benches, watch the boats pass by, and even catch a glimpse of dolphins in the harbor. At the end of the pier is a covered pavilion, a perfect spot to escape the sun on hot summer days.

Waterfront Park is more than just a park; it’s a testament to Charleston’s resilience. Opened in 1990, the park was built on land that had been ravaged by hurricanes and left vacant for years. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting Charleston for its rich history or its Southern charm, a visit to Waterfront Park is a must for a truly relaxing and scenic experience.

Address: Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Open in Google Maps

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, one of the most visited plantations in Charleston, South Carolina. Established in 1676 by the Drayton family, Magnolia Plantation is one of the oldest plantations in the South, offering a rich tapestry of history and horticultural beauty that promises to captivate visitors.

One of the defining features of Magnolia Plantation is its expansive gardens. Reputed to be the oldest public gardens in America, they were first opened to visitors in 1870. Designed in the Romantic Garden style, the gardens offer a stunning array of azaleas, camellias, and other blossoms, creating an ever-changing palette of color and bloom throughout the seasons. Amid the gardens’ beauty, you’ll also find a cypress and tupelo swamp, complete with a charming red bridge.

Within the grounds, you’ll find the Plantation House, a historic home filled with a range of antiques and artifacts that reveal the story of the Drayton family and the generations of people who lived and worked at Magnolia. It’s not the original manor house, which was burned during the Civil War, but it continues the legacy of the plantation and its historical significance.

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens also offers several additional attractions, including a Nature Center, a Zoo & Nature Exhibit, and a narrated nature train or boat tour, which take visitors through the plantation’s marshes and wetlands. These features help bring to life the diverse ecosystems that exist within the plantation’s bounds.

Immersed in history and natural beauty, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens offers an unforgettable journey into the past and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the Lowcountry landscape.

Website: www.magnoliaplantation.com
Address: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States
Open in Google Maps

See Basket Weavers at the Old City Market

Shopping for souvenirs, handicrafts and local produce is always fun during a trip. The old market building is the right place for that. Charleston’s most famous souvenir is sweetgrass baskets. Motifs from West Africa are used to make it, and during your walk you will have the opportunity to see their master craftsmanship in various open “sheds” on the market.

Address: 4 Carriage Ln, Charleston, SC 29407, United States
Open in Google Maps

Visit Fort Sumter National Monument

Fort Sumter is perhaps the most famous site of the Civil War. There, on April 12, 1861, this famous event in American history began and ended 4 years later with the hoisting of the American flag over the harbor. The ruins of Fort Sumter can be reached by boat, which also gives you the opportunity to explore the city from the water.

Address: South Carolina 29412, United States
Open in Google Maps

USS Yorktown and Patriots Point

Embark on an exciting journey into America’s naval history at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, home to the USS Yorktown and other historic military vessels. Situated on Charleston Harbor, Patriots Point is one of the largest museums of its kind in the world and offers visitors the unique opportunity to explore decommissioned naval ships and experience life as a sailor firsthand.

The star of Patriots Point is undoubtedly the USS Yorktown, an imposing aircraft carrier that earned 11 battle stars during World War II and also served in the Vietnam War. As you wander through its cavernous hangar deck and narrow corridors, you’ll see vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and artifacts that bring the ship’s storied history to life. You can visit the crew quarters, flight deck, and even the bridge, gaining an understanding of what life was like for the sailors who served on board.

Alongside the Yorktown, you’ll also find the USS Laffey, a destroyer known as “The Ship That Would Not Die,” and the USS Clamagore, a Cold War submarine. Each of these ships has its unique story and displays.

Beyond the historic ships, Patriots Point features the Vietnam Experience Exhibit, an immersive representation of a “Brown Water Navy” support base and a Marine Corps artillery fire base during the Tet Offensive and the Battle of Khe Sanh in 1968. The Medal of Honor Museum is also located here, providing a deeper understanding of the nation’s highest military honor and the individuals who received it.

A visit to Patriots Point and the USS Yorktown is an immersive and educational experience, offering a unique look into the sacrifices and valor of America’s naval forces. Whether you’re a history buff, military enthusiast, or family traveler, this distinctive journey into America’s naval past is a must-see when visiting Charleston, South Carolina.

Address: 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, United States
Open in Google Maps

Visit the Battery and White Point Gardens

The area where Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet was declared a public garden as early as 1837. Here you will find many military monuments left over from the Civil War, and a special place is assigned to the Confederate monument. The beautiful garden is surrounded by some of the most impressive mansions and houses, so your walk here will surely remain unforgettable, even if you are not a typical lover of history.

Address: 2 Murray Blvd, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Open in Google Maps

South Carolina Aquarium

South Carolina Aquarium is one of the things to do in Charleston if you travel with your family or children. You will probably be surprised by the fact that here, in addition to aquatic creatures, you will also find birds, reptiles, mammals and unusual varieties of plants. The 385,000-gallon aquarium tank is located on two levels providing a daily interactive show.
You can look forward to seeing live and up close sharks, starfish and rays. Visitors will also have the opportunity to visit Sea Turtle Hospital – the only hospital for injured sea turtles in Southern California.

Website: scaquarium.org
Address: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Open in Google Maps

See Ravenel Bridge

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. The bridge towering over the Cooper River was built in 2005 and has since been one of the main attractions for lovers of long walks and bike rides. A special area called Wonders’ Way has been created for them.

The bridge is fastened with strong metal cables and is built to withstand earthquakes with a magnitude of 7.4 and winds of over 300 miles.

Address: Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
Open in Google Maps

Boone Hall Plantation

Boone Hall Plantation was built in 1681, making it one of the oldest operating plantations in America. The place is best known for its three-quarter-mile Avenue of Oaks. The trees here are over 250 years old and were planted by the first owner of the land. Of particular interest may be the slave cabins preserved from those times.

If you want to buy fruits and vegetables locally produced – visit the nearby Hall Farms Market.

Website: www.boonehallplantation.com
Address: 1235 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, United States
Open in Google Maps

The Charleston Museum

“America’s First Museum” as it is often called The Charleston Museum opened its doors in 1773. Among the permanent exhibitions, you will find those dedicated to the first American settlers. Learn about some of the items used to grow rice, antique weapons, items from the Revolution and Charleston’s involvement in the Civil War.

A separate room houses exhibits of world history and culture, including Egyptian mummies, Greek and Roman works of art. In Charleston Silver Hall you will find silverware of historical value, and in the Historic Textiles Gallery, you will find a constantly updated collection of needlework and costumes.

Website: www.charlestonmuseum.org
Address: 360 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
Open in Google Maps

Drayton Hall

This magnificent building is also the oldest American unrestored plantation house. The interior of the house has not changed over the centuries, which creates a specific ancient atmosphere. Drayton Hall Plantation managed to withstand the Civil War so that today we see the overall furniture and architecture as it was in the early 18th century.

In the plantation is the African-American cemetery, which is the oldest active similar cemetery in the country. You can tour the plantation and learn more about its historical heritage, you can choose a guided tour.

Website: www.draytonhall.org
Address: 3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States
Open in Google Maps

Old Slave Mart Museum

The Old Slave Mart Museum is located in the French Quarter and is housed in a small building where slaves were auctioned during the Civil War. The self-guided tour here will amaze you with a lot of audio and visual effects and exhibitions, and in the individual rooms you will find many objects from that time. Of particular interest is the dungeon where pirates and patriots were held, called Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon.

Website: www.oldslavemartmuseum.com
Address: 6 Chalmers St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Open in Google Maps

Nathaniel Russell House and Aiken-Rhett House

As it has become clear so far, Charleston houses a number of beautiful mansions and houses, bearing the ancient glow of the past. Two of the mansions on our list are maintained by the Historic Charleston Foundation. These are the neoclassical Nathaniel Russell House, built in 1808, and the Aiken-Rhett House, built in 1820 and still owned by the original family. The beautiful gardens of these two mansions will provide you with a pleasant walk, and the magnificent architecture and works of art on the premises will surely be remembered.

Address: 51 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Open in Google Maps

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and Historic Churches

Dive into the spiritual heritage of Charleston at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a strikingly beautiful and historic church located in the heart of the city. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and impressive stained-glass windows, this cathedral is a true gem and an integral part of Charleston’s religious landscape.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, home to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston, is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Church in South Carolina. The current structure, built in 1907, is actually the third incarnation – the previous two buildings were destroyed by fire and the Civil War. Despite these setbacks, the cathedral was lovingly rebuilt each time, embodying the resilience of Charleston’s Catholic community.

The cathedral is renowned for its Gothic Revival architecture, a rarity in Charleston. Its most iconic feature is the stunningly intricate stained-glass windows that portray various biblical scenes. However, what truly sets this cathedral apart is its distinctive brownstone exterior and steeple, which were only completed in 2010, over a century after the cathedral was built.

In addition to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Charleston is home to many other historic churches that reflect the city’s diverse religious heritage. These include St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, one of the city’s oldest surviving church buildings, and Emanuel AME Church, a pivotal site in African American history. Exploring these sacred sites provides a deeper understanding of Charleston’s multi-layered history and the role faith has played in shaping the city.

Visiting the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and Charleston’s other historic churches offers a unique perspective on the city’s rich tapestry of faith, resilience, and architectural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or spiritual seeker, these sacred sites offer a peaceful and enlightening experience.

Website: savannahcathedral.org
Address: 222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States
Open in Google Maps

Calhoun Mansion

Discover the grandeur of the Gilded Age at the Calhoun Mansion, one of Charleston’s most spectacular historical landmarks. Located in the heart of the city’s historic district, this 35-room Italianate manor is considered one of the greatest post-Civil War houses on the Eastern Seaboard.

Built in 1876 by wealthy merchant George W. Williams, the Calhoun Mansion showcases the opulence and extravagance of the period. Its architectural detail is astounding, featuring ornate plasterwork, a grand staircase, intricate woodwork, stunning stained glass, and imposing fireplaces. The mansion’s impressive facade is equally notable with its tiered porches, large sash windows, and a striking cupola.

Today, the mansion is a privately owned house museum, filled with an extraordinary collection of antiques, decorative art, and other historical artifacts. The furnishings reflect a variety of periods, capturing over 300 years of history and culture.

Guided tours of the Calhoun Mansion provide an insightful look into the lifestyle of the American elite during the Gilded Age. Visitors will explore a variety of rooms – from the grand reception room and music room to the private family quarters upstairs. Each room is a treasure trove of period pieces, including American, Asian, and European furniture, paintings, sculptures, and textiles.

A visit to the Calhoun Mansion offers a fascinating step back in time, revealing the remarkable architectural and interior design heritage of Charleston’s high society. It’s an experience not to be missed by history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone who appreciates beauty and elegance.

Website: www.calhounmansion.net
Address: 16 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Open in Google Maps
Wikipedia info

Tour Historic Homes at the Festival of Houses and Gardens

The annual festival is organized by the Historic Charleston Foundation at a time when all the trees and flowers are in bloom. Here you will be able to participate in tours and training to learn more about gardening and architecture. During the festival, you will be able to visit over 150 American homes opening their doors and gardens to enjoy the beautiful flora and architecture.

Charleston is a city with an incredibly rich history and preserved to this day historical, cultural and architectural heritage. Surely your vacation here will be very different, whether you prefer to visit one of the historical exhibitions, churches or flower gardens.