Welcome to Charleston, where Southern charm meets coastal magic! Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, this enchanting city has something special waiting for you. From stunning plantations to mysterious dungeons, from rainbow-colored houses to world-class aquariums, our comprehensive guide to things to do in Charleston will transform you from a curious visitor into a true Holy City insider. Get ready to fall head-over-heels for cobblestone streets, Spanish moss, and hospitality so sweet it could give you a toothache!
1. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens: Charleston’s Romantic Garden Paradise
Step into South Carolina’s most visited plantation and prepare to be enchanted by Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, where centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss create one of America’s most romantic garden settings. This National Historic Registry gem offers visitors a perfect blend of history, horticulture, and Southern charm that will have you reaching for your camera at every turn.
Wander down the famous Ancient Oak Avenue, explore the world-renowned 19th-century “Romantic Style” gardens bursting with azaleas and camellias, and choose from various historical tours that bring the plantation’s complex past to life. The sprawling gardens are equally stunning whether you’re admiring spring blooms or autumn foliage, making this a year-round Charleston must-see.
- Visit Duration: 3-4 hours for gardens and house tour
- Perfect For: Families, couples, photographers, and garden enthusiasts
- Admission: Around $20-30 for adults (additional fees for house tours)
- Location: 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC
- Pro Tip: Visit in spring (March-April) for peak azalea blooms, or arrive early morning to beat crowds and catch the best light for photos
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking Instagram-worthy scenery, Magnolia Plantation delivers an unforgettable slice of Southern elegance that explains why it’s remained Charleston’s crown jewel for over three centuries.
2. Middleton Place: America’s Garden Paradise
Step into America’s oldest landscaped gardens at Middleton Place, where 300 years of horticultural history unfolds across 110 breathtaking acres that will make your Instagram followers weep with envy. This National Historic Landmark combines stunning formal gardens, a preserved plantation house, and fascinating glimpses into Charleston’s complex past.
Wander through butterfly-shaped lakes, marvel at camellia collections that bloom from winter through spring, and explore the stableyards where craftspeople demonstrate 18th-century trades. The restaurant serves phenomenal Lowcountry cuisine with garden-to-table ingredients that taste as magnificent as the views.
- Visit Duration: 3-4 hours for the full experience
- Perfect For: Garden enthusiasts, history buffs, families, and couples seeking romance
- Admission: Around $35 for adults, discounts for children and seniors
- Location: 4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC
- Pro Tip: Visit during spring (March-May) for peak blooms, or early morning for fewer crowds and golden light photography
Middleton Place proves that some gardens are worth traveling across continents to experience – this is where American landscape design was truly born.
3. Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Sumter National Monument is where American history literally exploded into action – this tiny island fortress marks the spot where the first shots of the Civil War rang out in 1861, making it a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Step onto this man-made island and you’ll walk through the very walls where Union forces endured a 34-hour Confederate bombardment before surrendering. The fort’s museum showcases fascinating artifacts, cannons, and exhibits that bring this pivotal moment to life. The ferry ride itself offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor and the city skyline – honestly, the journey is half the fun!
Here’s what you need to know:
- Visit duration: 2-3 hours including ferry ride
- Perfect for: History enthusiasts, families with older kids, and anyone who loves boat rides
- Ferry tickets: Around $22 for adults, $14 for kids
- Location: Departs from Liberty Square (340 Concord St) or Patriots Point
- Pro tip: Book morning ferries to avoid crowds and bring a jacket – it gets windy on the water!
This isn’t just a history lesson; it’s a chance to stand where America’s most defining conflict began, surrounded by some of the most beautiful harbor views you’ll ever see.
4. Charleston Waterfront Park
Charleston Waterfront Park is the city’s crown jewel of green spaces, offering stunning harbor views and the perfect escape from cobblestone fatigue – because even the most dedicated historic district wanderer needs a breather eventually.
This 12-acre oasis stretches along the Cooper River, featuring the iconic Pineapple Fountain (yes, it’s as Instagram-worthy as it sounds), tree-lined promenades, and plenty of shaded benches for people-watching. The park’s pier extends into Charleston Harbor, providing front-row seats to passing boats and spectacular sunset views that’ll make you forget you’re not on a cruise ship.
Perfect for families with kids who can splash in the fountain, couples seeking romantic sunset strolls, or anyone needing a picnic spot with a view. Plan 1-2 hours here, and admission is completely free – a rare treat in tourist-heavy Charleston. Located at 1 Vendue Range, the park gets crowded during golden hour, so visit early morning for peaceful moments or embrace the evening energy.
Charleston Waterfront Park proves that sometimes the best things in the Holy City don’t require climbing historic stairs or deciphering colonial architecture – just pure, simple waterfront bliss.
5. Charleston City Market: A Historic Shopping Paradise
Step into Charleston City Market, a bustling historic landmark that’s been the heart of Charleston’s commerce since the 1790s, making it one of America’s oldest public markets and a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic Southern charm and unique treasures.
This four-block covered marketplace is a treasure trove where you’ll discover everything from handwoven sweetgrass baskets (Charleston’s most prized souvenir) crafted by Gullah artisans to locally made jewelry, artwork, and quirky trinkets. Watch skilled craftspeople work their magic right before your eyes, sample local treats, and hunt for that perfect memento that screams “I survived Charleston and all I got was this amazing handmade whatever.”
- Time needed: 1-2 hours for leisurely browsing
- Perfect for: Families, couples, souvenir hunters, and culture enthusiasts
- Cost: Free to enter; shopping budget varies (sweetgrass baskets $20-200+)
- Location: 188 N Market St, between Meeting and East Bay Streets
- Pro tip: Visit weekday mornings for fewer crowds and better chatting opportunities with artisans
Charleston City Market isn’t just shopping—it’s a living piece of history where every purchase supports local traditions that have thrived for over two centuries.
6. Nathaniel Russell House: A Masterpiece of Federal Architecture
The Nathaniel Russell House is Charleston’s crown jewel of Federal architecture, where merchant wealth meets artistic brilliance in a stunning 1808 mansion that’ll make your Instagram followers weep with envy. This National Historic Landmark showcases the city’s golden age through impeccably preserved rooms and that famous three-story “flying” staircase that seems to defy gravity – seriously, architectural nerds lose their minds over this thing.
Beyond the jaw-dropping spiral staircase, you’ll explore lavishly decorated rooms filled with period furnishings, intricate plasterwork, and stories of Charleston’s elite society. The guided tours reveal fascinating details about 19th-century life, from the elaborate entertaining spaces to the servants’ quarters that tell a more complete historical story.
- Visit duration: 45-60 minutes
- Perfect for: History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates fine craftsmanship
- Admission: Around $15 for adults
- Location: 51 Meeting Street, Historic District
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities of that famous staircase
This isn’t just another house tour – it’s a time machine that transports you to Charleston’s most glamorous era, complete with architectural eye candy that’ll haunt your dreams.
7. The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre
Step into Charleston’s most entertaining whodunit experience at The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre, where audience participation meets murder mystery in the most delightfully chaotic way possible. Located in the heart of the historic City Market, this interactive dinner theater transforms you from spectator to detective as you help solve comedic crimes while enjoying delicious appetizers and homemade desserts.
The magic happens when clean comedy meets classic mystery plots, creating an atmosphere where laughter is mandatory and solving crimes is optional. You’ll find yourself questioning suspects, following clues, and potentially becoming part of the show itself – all while savoring à la carte treats and drinks in an intimate theater setting.
- Duration: Shows typically run 2-3 hours including dining
- Perfect for: Couples seeking unique date nights, families with teens, and groups of friends
- Pricing: Tickets range from $35-55 per person (food and drinks additional)
- Location: Downtown City Market area
- Pro tip: Book weekend shows in advance and arrive early to secure the best seats for audience interaction
This isn’t just dinner and a show – it’s your chance to channel your inner Sherlock Holmes while having the time of your life in one of Charleston’s most original entertainment venues.
8. Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B – it’s Charleston’s crown jewel that doubles as the city’s most Instagram-worthy workout venue. This magnificent cable-stayed bridge, with its distinctive twin diamond peaks soaring 186 feet above the Cooper River, connects downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant while serving up breathtaking panoramic views that’ll make you forget you’re technically exercising.
The bridge features a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle path that stretches 2.5 miles, offering unparalleled vistas of Charleston’s historic skyline, the harbor, and surrounding islands. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or cycling, you’ll be treated to a constantly changing perspective of the Lowcountry’s natural beauty.
- Time needed: 1-2 hours for a round trip walk/bike ride
- Perfect for: Fitness enthusiasts, photographers, couples seeking sunset views, and families with older children
- Cost: Absolutely free (parking may require fees)
- Location: Access points from both downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant sides
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour for spectacular photos, but arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds and secure parking
This architectural marvel proves that sometimes the journey really is more rewarding than the destination – especially when that journey includes some of the Southeast’s most stunning views.
9. McLeod Plantation Historic Site
Step into one of Charleston’s most profound historic sites where McLeod Plantation Historic Site offers an unflinching look at American history through the lens of slavery, freedom, and resilience. This 37-acre Gullah Geechee heritage site tells stories that many plantations won’t—focusing on the experiences of enslaved people and their descendants rather than romanticizing the antebellum period.
The guided tours reveal authentic slave quarters, the main house, and beautifully preserved grounds while expert interpreters share powerful narratives about the people who lived and worked here. You’ll gain deep insights into Gullah culture, the Civil War period, and Reconstruction through artifacts, exhibits, and oral histories that bring the past vividly to life.
- Duration: 90 minutes for guided tour
- Best for: Adults and mature teens interested in authentic history; educational groups
- Admission: $15 adults, $10 students/seniors
- Location: 325 Country Club Drive, James Island
- Pro tip: Book ahead as tours fill quickly; wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water
This isn’t your typical plantation tour—it’s an essential, thought-provoking experience that provides crucial context for understanding Charleston’s complex history.
10. Drayton Hall: America’s Oldest Unrestored Plantation House
Step back in time at Drayton Hall, where history hasn’t been polished or prettified – and that’s exactly what makes this circa 1738 plantation house so extraordinary. As America’s oldest unrestored plantation house still open to the public, it offers an authentic glimpse into colonial life that you simply can’t find anywhere else.
Unlike other historic homes that have been renovated beyond recognition, Drayton Hall wears its 285+ years with pride, complete with original paint, scuff marks, and architectural details that tell stories no restoration could capture. The guided tours reveal fascinating tales of the Drayton family, enslaved communities, and how this Georgian Palladian masterpiece survived the Civil War, earthquakes, and hurricanes.
- Visit Duration: 1-2 hours for house tour and grounds
- Perfect For: History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and families with older children
- Admission: Around $22 for adults, $12 for children
- Location: 3380 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC
- Pro Tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller groups and better photo opportunities
This isn’t your typical “restored to perfection” historic house – it’s a genuine time capsule that lets you experience history as it actually happened, imperfections and all.
11. Aiken-Rhett House: A Perfectly Preserved Antebellum Time Capsule
Step into the Aiken-Rhett House and you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon Charleston’s best-kept secret – a remarkably preserved antebellum townhouse that tells the complete story of 19th-century Southern life, from the grand main residence to the original slave quarters.
Built around 1820 and dramatically expanded by Governor William Aiken Jr. in the 1830s and 1850s, this National Historic Landmark offers an unfiltered look at both the opulent lifestyle of Charleston’s elite and the harsh realities of enslaved workers who made it possible. Unlike many historic homes that have been heavily restored, the Aiken-Rhett House maintains its original wallpaper, paint, and furnishings, creating an authentically haunting atmosphere.
Key visitor information:
- Visit duration: 45-60 minutes for the self-guided audio tour
- Best for: History buffs, adults, and mature teens interested in authentic American history
- Admission: Around $12-15 for adults
- Location: 48 Elizabeth Street, Charleston, SC
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities
This isn’t your typical polished historic house tour – it’s a raw, powerful experience that brings Charleston’s complex past into sharp focus.
12. South Carolina Aquarium
Dive into Charleston’s underwater wonderland at the South Carolina Aquarium, where nearly 5,000 marine creatures await to dazzle you with their aquatic antics. Perched majestically overlooking Charleston Harbor, this isn’t just any ordinary fish tank – it’s a portal to the mysteries of our blue planet.
Wander through immersive exhibits showcasing everything from playful sea turtles and mesmerizing jellyfish to the crown jewel – a massive 385,000-gallon Great Ocean Tank where sharks glide overhead as you walk through the tunnel. The touch tank lets you get hands-on with stingrays (they’re surprisingly velvety!), while the rescue turtle hospital offers heartwarming glimpses of conservation in action.
Perfect for families, marine enthusiasts, and anyone who’s ever wondered what it’s like to be surrounded by sharks without the fear factor. Plan for 2-3 hours to fully explore all exhibits.
- Admission: Adults $29.95, Children $19.95
- Location: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and more active animals
It’s the kind of place that makes you fall in love with the ocean all over again – even if you’re a landlubber at heart.
13. Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
Step into Charleston’s darkest chapter at the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, where history literally comes alive through costumed guides who bring tales of pirates, patriots, and presidents to vivid life. This atmospheric underground dungeon once held notorious pirates like Stede Bonnet, and today you can explore the same stone chambers where these swashbuckling criminals awaited their fate.
Your journey takes you through the remnants of the 1698 fortification walls and into the shadowy dungeons below, where interactive exhibits and dramatic storytelling make you feel like you’re witnessing history firsthand. The Colonial-dressed guides are absolute masters at weaving entertaining tales that captivate both adults and kids alike.
- Visit duration: 45-60 minutes
- Perfect for: Families with children 8+, history buffs, and anyone who loves a good ghost story
- Admission: Around $12 for adults, $6 for children
- Location: 122 East Bay Street, at the corner of Broad Street
- Pro tip: Visit during weekday afternoons for smaller crowds and more personalized storytelling
This is one of those rare places where education meets entertainment so seamlessly that you’ll leave both smarter and thoroughly entertained.
14. Battery & White Point Gardens
Battery & White Point Gardens is Charleston’s perfect blend of history and harbor views, where Civil War monuments stand guard over some of the most Instagram-worthy scenery in the South. This waterfront park on the Ashley and Cooper Rivers confluence offers a peaceful escape with serious historical street cred.
Stroll among ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss while discovering cannons and monuments that tell tales of Charleston’s tumultuous past. The real showstopper? Those postcard-perfect views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter that’ll have you snapping photos faster than a tourist at a shrimp and grits festival. Kids love climbing on the old cannons (safely, of course), while history buffs can spend hours reading every plaque.
- Time needed: 1-2 hours for a leisurely visit
- Perfect for: Families, history enthusiasts, photographers, and romantic strolls
- Cost: Free (because the best things in Charleston don’t always cost a fortune!)
- Location: East Battery & Murray Blvd, Charleston, SC
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour for magical lighting, and bring a picnic to enjoy on the benches facing the water
Whether you’re a Civil War buff or just someone who appreciates a good view with their history lesson, Battery & White Point Gardens delivers Charleston charm in spades.
15. The Charleston Museum: America’s First Museum
Step into America’s oldest museum and prepare to be whisked away on a journey through Charleston’s fascinating past – because who doesn’t love bragging rights about visiting the nation’s first museum, founded way back in 1773?
The Charleston Museum is your one-stop shop for understanding the Lowcountry’s rich cultural tapestry, featuring everything from Civil War artifacts and antique furniture to natural history exhibits that’ll make you appreciate those prehistoric creatures that once roamed South Carolina. The museum’s crown jewel is its extensive collection of Charleston silver and decorative arts, plus engaging exhibits about plantation life, maritime history, and the city’s role in American independence.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Time needed: 2-3 hours for a thorough visit
- Perfect for: History buffs, families with curious kids, and culture enthusiasts
- Admission: Around $12 for adults, $5 for children
- Location: 360 Meeting Street, Charleston
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and ask about combo tickets with their historic houses
This isn’t just a dusty old museum – it’s Charleston’s memory keeper, where every artifact tells a story that shaped the South.
16. Rainbow Row: Charleston’s Most Photographed Street
Rainbow Row is Charleston’s most iconic and Instagram-worthy street, featuring 13 historic Georgian row houses painted in a delightful array of pastel colors that’ll make your camera roll burst with joy. This charming stretch of East Bay Street isn’t just pretty to look at – it’s a living piece of American history dating back to the 1740s.
Strolling along these candy-colored homes is like walking through a real-life fairy tale, where each house tells its own story through perfectly preserved architecture and whimsical hues of pink, yellow, blue, and green. The best part? It’s completely free to admire and photograph to your heart’s content.
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes for photos and leisurely stroll
- Perfect for: Photographers, couples, families, and architecture enthusiasts
- Cost: Free (street viewing)
- Location: 79-107 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the most magical lighting and fewer crowds
Rainbow Row proves that sometimes the most memorable travel experiences come without an entrance fee – just pure, colorful Charleston charm.
17. Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist
Step into the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and prepare to have your breath taken away by one of Charleston’s most stunning examples of Gothic Revival architecture. This early 1900s masterpiece isn’t just a place of worship—it’s a living gallery of extraordinary stained glass windows that transform sunlight into rainbow symphonies across the stone floors.
The cathedral’s soaring spires and intricate stonework make it a photographer’s dream, while the peaceful interior offers a welcome respite from Charleston’s bustling streets. The real showstoppers are those magnificent stained glass windows, each telling its own colorful story and casting ethereal light throughout the sacred space.
- Visit duration: 30-45 minutes
- Perfect for: Architecture enthusiasts, photographers, couples seeking quiet moments, and families with older children
- Admission: Free (donations welcome)
- Location: 120 Broad Street, Charleston
- Pro tip: Visit during late morning or early afternoon when the stained glass windows are most brilliantly illuminated by natural light
Whether you’re religious or simply appreciate breathtaking architecture, this cathedral proves that some of Charleston’s most spectacular sights don’t come with admission fees—just open hearts and curious minds.
18. Old Slave Mart Museum
The Old Slave Mart Museum offers a profound and essential glimpse into Charleston’s complex history, serving as one of the few remaining slave auction sites in the United States that now educates visitors about this dark chapter of American history.
Located in a building that once housed slave auctions, the museum presents powerful storytelling through detailed storyboards, artifacts, and personal narratives that bring this difficult history to life. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated to honor the experiences of enslaved people while providing historical context that’s both educational and deeply moving.
This museum is ideal for mature visitors, history enthusiasts, and families with teenagers who can appreciate the gravity of the subject matter. Plan for 45-60 minutes to fully absorb the exhibits. Admission is around $8 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Located at 6 Chalmers Street in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, it’s easily walkable from other downtown attractions.
Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and allow time for reflection – this isn’t a rushed experience. This museum provides an irreplaceable opportunity to understand Charleston’s full story and confront an uncomfortable but crucial part of American history.
19. Pineapple Fountain – Charleston’s Sweet Symbol of Hospitality
The Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park is Charleston’s most Instagram-worthy tribute to Southern hospitality, where you can literally make a splash while soaking up some fascinating maritime history. This whimsical water feature pays homage to the days when pineapples were so exotic and expensive that displaying one meant you were seriously rolling in doubloons.
Located right on the harbor, this fountain offers stunning views of the Cooper River and makes for the perfect backdrop for family photos (just try not to get too wet!). Kids love running through the water jets on hot summer days, while adults appreciate the thoughtful design that celebrates Charleston’s port town heritage. The surrounding Waterfront Park provides plenty of shade and bench seating for those who prefer to admire from a distance.
- Visit duration: 30-45 minutes
- Perfect for: Families with kids, couples seeking photo ops, history buffs
- Cost: Completely free
- Location: Waterfront Park, Vendue Range, Charleston, SC
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour for the best photos, and bring a towel if traveling with little ones!
It’s the kind of place that perfectly captures Charleston’s charm – where history, hospitality, and a healthy dose of whimsy come together in one delightfully splashy package.
20. St. Michael’s Church
Step into Charleston’s oldest church, where bells have been marking time since 1764—making it older than your great-great-great-grandmother’s secret cookie recipe. St. Michael’s Church stands as a stunning example of colonial architecture in the heart of the historic district, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic Anglican worship and admire its iconic white steeple that’s been guiding ships and tourists alike for centuries.
The church’s interior features beautiful box pews, original chandelier, and fascinating historical artifacts, including George Washington’s pew (yes, the first president sat here!). You can tour the grounds, attend services, or simply marvel at the craftsmanship of this architectural gem.
- Visit duration: 30-45 minutes
- Perfect for: History buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful moment
- Admission: Free (donations welcomed)
- Location: 71 Broad Street, Charleston, SC
- Pro tip: Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos
St. Michael’s isn’t just a church—it’s a living piece of American history where you can literally sit where the founding fathers once prayed.
21. Robert Lange Studios
Robert Lange Studios is Charleston’s premier contemporary art gallery where you can discover exceptional works by some of the country’s finest painters in an intimate, welcoming setting. This isn’t your typical stuffy gallery – it’s a vibrant space where art comes alive and conversations flow as freely as the creativity on display.
Step inside to explore rotating exhibitions featuring everything from hyper-realistic paintings to bold contemporary pieces. The knowledgeable staff genuinely loves sharing stories about the artists and their work, making even art novices feel like insiders. You’ll often catch artists in residence working on their latest masterpieces, offering a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process.
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes
- Perfect for: Art lovers, couples seeking culture, curious minds of all ages
- Cost: Free admission
- Location: 2 Queen Street, Charleston’s French Quarter
- Pro tip: Visit on First Friday Art Walks (6-9 PM) for wine, artist meet-and-greets, and a lively atmosphere
Robert Lange Studios proves that great art doesn’t need pretense – just passion, talent, and a space where both artists and art lovers can connect authentically.
Charleston isn’t just a destination – it’s a love affair waiting to happen. With these incredible things to do in Charleston, you’re not just checking boxes off a tourist list; you’re creating memories that’ll have you planning your return trip before you’ve even left. From sunrise strolls through historic gardens to sunset views from iconic bridges, the Holy City has mastered the art of making every visitor feel like they’ve discovered something truly magical. So pack your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and prepare for a Charleston adventure that’ll leave you utterly charmed!