ratings

Category	Rating	Your Rating
atmosphere
beach
culture
food
nightlife
scenery
tourism

Things to do in Charleston

• Explore Folly Beach

  
  

  Just a short drive from downtown Charleston, Folly Beach offers a perfect escape from the city hustle. This laid-back barrier island is known for its wide, sandy beaches and great surfing conditions. It's a favorite spot for locals and visitors to soak up some sun and enjoy the ocean.

  Take a stroll down the Folly Beach Pier for some fantastic views or try your hand at fishing. You can also kayak along the coastline or through nearby marshes for a different perspective of the area. The beach is lined with colorful houses on stilts, adding to its casual, coastal vibe. When you get hungry, head to Center Street, where you'll find plenty of seafood spots and beach bars. The sunset from the western end of the island is well worth staying for.

  
  

• Step Back in Time: Charleston's Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

  
  

  Step back in time with a horse-drawn carriage tour through Charleston’s historic downtown. As the carriage makes its way along cobblestone streets, you’ll pass by well-preserved antebellum homes, vibrant gardens, and notable landmarks such as Rainbow Row and the Battery. The leisurely ride offers a close look at the city’s rich architectural details and charming alleyways, all set against the backdrop of the harbor’s coastal breeze.

  Guides share stories that span over 350 years of Charleston’s history, including tales of pirates, plantations, and events from the Civil War era. Along the way, you may hear about prominent former residents or legends from the city’s past. The one-hour tour covers a broad area while maintaining a relaxed pace, making it an ideal introduction to Charleston’s highlights. Early morning rides offer a quieter experience, and the views of pastel homes and palm-lined streets make for excellent photo opportunities.

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Historic Charleston Harbor Cruise

  
  

  Hop aboard the Carolina Belle for an unforgettable cruise through Charleston's historic harbor. As you glide along the water, you'll be treated to stunning views of the city skyline and over 75 landmarks that tell the rich story of this charming Southern port. The captain's lively narration brings 300 years of American history to life, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War and beyond.

  Keep your camera ready as you pass famous sights like Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War rang out. You'll also see imposing military forts, the World War II aircraft carrier known as the 'Fighting Lady', and get up-close views of Charleston's iconic Battery. But it's not just about history - the harbor is teeming with wildlife too. Watch for playful dolphins surfacing near the boat and pelicans soaring overhead as you take in the coastal scenery.

  Whether you choose to relax in the climate-controlled cabin or feel the sea breeze on the open-air upper deck, this 90-minute cruise offers the perfect introduction to Charleston's maritime heritage. Grab a drink from the onboard bar, settle in, and prepare to fall in love with the Holy City's beauty and charm from a whole new perspective.

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Charleston Harbor Sunset Dinner Cruise

  
  

  Cruise through Charleston Harbor on the Spirit of Carolina for an unforgettable evening. As the sun sets, you'll be treated to stunning views of Fort Sumter, the Battery, and the iconic Ravenel Bridge. The real star of the show though is the mouthwatering 3-course dinner made with fresh local ingredients.

  From she-crab soup to braised short ribs or shrimp and grits, the menu highlights classic Southern flavors. Enjoy your meal in the climate-controlled dining room or head up to the open-air deck to feel the ocean breeze. Live music adds to the ambiance as you sip cocktails from the full-service bar.

  This 2.5 hour cruise is the perfect way to see Charleston from a new perspective. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want a unique night out, the combination of delicious food, beautiful scenery, and relaxed atmosphere makes for an enchanting experience on the water. Just be sure to save room for the decadent desserts like New York cheesecake or chocolate pot de crème!

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Step Back in Time at Magnolia Plantation

  
  

  Get ready for a trip through time at the stunning Magnolia Plantation. This half-day adventure takes you to one of America's oldest gardens, where history comes alive around every corner. You'll start with a comfy ride from downtown Charleston, then dive into the plantation's rich past dating back to 1676.

  Once you arrive, you're in for a treat. The gardens here aren't just any old flowerbeds - they're romantic and wild, bursting with color and life. As you wander through, it's easy to see why people have been flocking here since the 1870s. But the real highlight? Hop on a tram for a 30-minute ride through the Audubon Swamp Gardens. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, and herons hiding among the cypress trees.

  You'll also get to peek inside the historic Drayton family home and learn about plantation life from knowledgeable guides. They really bring the stories of this place to life, from the grand house to the sobering reality of the old slave cabins. By the time you head back to Charleston, you'll have a new appreciation for the complex history of the South and the natural beauty that's been preserved here for generations.

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Sips and Scenery: Wadmalaw Island Wine and Tea Adventure

  
  

  This day trip from Charleston to Wadmalaw Island offers a blend of natural beauty and local experiences. The first stop is the remarkable Angel Oak Tree, estimated to be over 500 years old. Its sprawling branches create a striking canopy, making it one of the most iconic and photographed sights in the Lowcountry.

  The journey continues at the Charleston Tea Garden, where rows of tea bushes stretch across the landscape. A guided trolley tour takes visitors around the grounds, including a visit to the greenhouse where the tea plants are cultivated. Guests are invited to sample a variety of freshly brewed teas, offering a true taste of the region’s tea production.

  The final stop is Deep Water Vineyard, known for producing wines made entirely on-site. Visitors can walk through the vineyards, meet some of the resident farm animals, and enjoy a relaxed wine tasting. Whether you are familiar with wine or simply appreciate a casual tasting, the vineyard provides a welcoming setting to end the day’s exploration.

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Fort Sumter Ferry Adventure

  
  

  Jump on a ferry and cruise across Charleston Harbor to explore Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War rang out. As you sail, you'll get awesome views of the city skyline, fancy homes along the Battery, and maybe even spot some playful dolphins. Once you land at the fort, you've got about an hour to check out the well-preserved ruins and learn all about the dramatic start of America's bloodiest conflict.

  The National Park Rangers really know their stuff - they'll tell you fascinating stories about the brave soldiers who fought here and what led up to that fateful day in 1861. Wander around the grounds, imagining what it was like for troops stationed at this strategic harbor outpost. Don't miss the small museum with Civil War artifacts and the gift shop for some cool souvenirs.

  As you head back to Charleston on the return ferry, you can relax and soak in more gorgeous harbor views. It's a perfect mix of history, scenery, and being out on the water. The whole trip takes about 2.5 hours and gives you a totally new perspective on Charleston and its role in shaping American history. Just remember to bring comfy shoes, a camera, and maybe a light jacket for the breezy boat ride!

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Stroll through the Battery and White Point Garden

  
  

  The Battery is a historic defensive seawall and promenade that offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor. As you walk along the waterfront, you'll see some of the city's most impressive antebellum homes, their colorful facades a testament to Charleston's rich architectural heritage.

  At the southern tip of the Battery, you'll find White Point Garden, a beautiful park shaded by ancient oak trees. It's the perfect spot to relax on a bench and watch sailboats glide by in the harbor. The park is also home to several Civil War-era cannons and statues, making it a great place to brush up on some local history while enjoying the sea breeze.

  
  

• Visit the Charleston Museum

  
  

  Known as 'America's First Museum,' the Charleston Museum is a treasure trove of local history and culture. Founded in 1773, this institution has been collecting and preserving artifacts from the Lowcountry region for centuries.

  As you wander through the exhibits, you'll see everything from prehistoric fossils to Civil War relics and beautiful examples of Charleston silverware and furniture. The textile gallery is particularly impressive, showcasing intricate quilts and clothing from different periods in the city's history. Don't miss the natural history section, which includes a massive whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling. It's a great place to spend a few hours, especially if you want to deepen your understanding of Charleston's rich past.

  
  

• Explore the South Carolina Aquarium

  
  

  The South Carolina Aquarium is a fantastic place to spend a few hours, especially if you're traveling with kids or if you're just a marine life enthusiast. Located right on the harbor, this modern facility is home to more than 5,000 animals, including otters, sea turtles, and even a rare albino alligator.

  One of the highlights is the two-story Great Ocean Tank, where you can watch sharks and other large fish swim overhead. The touch tanks are always a hit, giving visitors a chance to get hands-on with gentle rays and other small sea creatures. Don't miss the Sea Turtle Care Center, where you can learn about the aquarium's important conservation work and maybe even see some turtle patients on their road to recovery.

  
  

• Visit the Nathaniel Russell House Museum

  
  

  Step back in time at the Nathaniel Russell House Museum, one of America's most important neoclassical dwellings. This stunning 19th-century home has been meticulously restored to its original glory, showcasing the lavish lifestyle of Charleston's elite during the antebellum period.

  As you tour the house, you'll be blown away by the intricate architectural details, including the breathtaking free-flying staircase that seems to defy gravity. The rooms are filled with period antiques and decorative arts that give you a real sense of what life was like for the wealthy Russell family. Don't forget to take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, which have been recreated based on archaeological evidence and historical research.

  
  

• Tour the Aiken-Rhett House Museum

  
  

  For a glimpse into Charleston's antebellum past, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum is hard to beat. This historic home has been preserved rather than restored, giving visitors a unique, almost time-capsule-like experience of 19th-century Charleston life.

  As you explore the house, you'll see layers of history in the peeling wallpaper and worn floorboards. The audio tour is excellent, providing context and stories about the Aiken family and the enslaved people who lived and worked on the property. The preserved slave quarters are particularly poignant, offering a sobering look at this difficult aspect of Charleston's history. It's a thought-provoking and immersive experience that shouldn't be missed.

  
  

Where to stay in Charleston

Best hotels in Charleston:

• Hampton Inn (luxury hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  The Hampton Inn in Charleston, making it super convenient for exploring the city. It's across the street from the visitor center and close to all the main attractions. The rooms are spacious and comfy, with modern amenities like free WiFi.

  One of the best things about this place is the free breakfast - it's got a good variety and saves you time and money in the mornings. There's also an outdoor pool if you need to cool off after sightseeing. The staff are friendly and helpful with local tips.

  For the location and amenities, it's solid value in pricey Charleston. Overall, it's a reliable choice for a comfortable stay right in the middle of everything.

  
  

• The Iris (medium range hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  The Iris in Charleston offers a stylish and comfortable, this sleek, modern hotel features spacious apartments with all the amenities you need for a relaxing visit. The rooms are clean, well-appointed and come with full kitchens, making it easy to feel at home during your stay.

  Located just a few blocks from the action on King Street, The Iris puts you within walking distance of Charleston's best shopping, dining and attractions. After a day of exploring, you can unwind on your private balcony or patio. The helpful staff go above and beyond to make sure guests have a great experience. With its blend of convenience, comfort and excellent service, The Iris is a top choice for travelers looking to make the most of their time in Charleston.