Looking for the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina? I’ve got you.
Charleston has been my home my entire life and after working in tourism here for more than 15 years, I’ve helped countless visitors plan their trips. I’ve seen the city from both sides: as a local who grew up here and is now raising my own kids here and as someone who has spent years helping visitors figure out what is actually worth their time.
And I know how overwhelming it can be to plan a Charleston trip! There are so many restaurants, historic sites, tours, beaches, and things to do that it can be hard to know where to start.
This guide includes many of the places I think every first time visitor should experience, along with a few of my local favorites that don’t always make the big “best of Charleston” lists. I’ll also share where I think you can skip the crowds, what I’d prioritize if you only have a few days, and the specific experiences I recommend to my own clients and friends.
Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend, celebrating a special occasion, or planning your very first trip to Charleston, these are the experiences I recommend over and over again.
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My Top 10 Things to Do in Charleston
If you only have a couple of days in Charleston or just want the highlights, these are the experiences I’d recommend first. They capture everything I love about my hometown, from its rich history and incredible food to its beautiful waterfront and laid back Lowcountry charm.
- Walk The Battery & White Point Garden for iconic harbor views and historic mansions.
- Stroll past Rainbow Row and wander the charming streets south of Broad.
- Take a guided walking tour to learn the stories that bring Charleston to life.
- Experience Charleston’s incredible food scene, from fresh seafood to award winning restaurants.
- Go crabbing with Tia for one of the most authentic and memorable Lowcountry experiences.
- Spend an afternoon at Shem Creek watching dolphins, kayaking, or enjoying lunch on the water.
- Visit the Angel Oak Tree, one of the oldest and most breathtaking live oaks in the country.
- Relax at one of Charleston’s beautiful beaches, like Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, or Isle of Palms.
- Watch the sunset over Charleston Harbor from Waterfront Park, a harbor cruise, or a waterfront restaurant.
- Slow down and simply wander. Some of Charleston’s greatest moments happen between the attractions on quiet streets filled with historic homes, blooming window boxes, and hidden gardens.
Keep reading for my complete guide to 40+ of the best things to do in Charleston, including free activities, rainy day ideas, family friendly attractions, hidden gems, and more.
Explore Historic Downtown Charleston
Charleston’s history is everywhere you look. From colorful historic homes to hidden gardens and centuries old churches, there is so much to see just by walking around downtown.
These are some of my favorite historic spots and experiences to add to your Charleston itinerary.
1. Walk Along Rainbow Row
Rainbow Row is one of Charleston’s most recognizable landmarks, and yes, it is touristy. But if this is your first trip, I do think you should see it.
The colorful homes along East Bay Street make for one of the most iconic Charleston photos. Once you get your picture, keep walking. Some of my favorite streets and historic homes are just beyond Rainbow Row.
Lindsey’s Tip: Go early in the morning for the prettiest light and the fewest people. I like to grab a coffee nearby from Mercado at Sorelle and then wander from there.
2. Visit The Battery & White Point Garden
A walk along The Battery is one of the things I recommend to almost every first time visitor. You get beautiful views of Charleston Harbor on one side and some of the city’s most impressive historic homes on the other.
Walk through White Point Garden beneath the huge live oaks, look out toward the harbor, and take your time reading some of the historic markers.
This is one of those spots where you don’t really need an agenda. Just walk and take it all in.
3. Explore the French Quarter and Churches
The French Quarter is one of my favorite areas to wander downtown. It’s full of beautiful architecture, historic churches, art galleries, and little side streets that are easy to miss if you’re only following a map.
I especially love walking along Church Street and turning down the smaller streets around it. You never know what pretty courtyard, garden, or historic home you’ll find.
There are also several beautiful historic churches worth seeing while you’re here. A few of my favorites are St. Michael’s Church, St. Philip’s Church, and the French Huguenot Church. Even if you don’t go inside, their architecture and history are worth taking a few minutes to appreciate.
4. Browse the Charleston City Market
If you really want to see the Charleston City Market, it can be fun to do a quick walk through, but I wouldn’t plan your trip around it. It’s one of Charleston’s most well known landmarks and a good place to see some of the city’s traditional sweetgrass baskets and local crafts. But, it is pretty touristy.
That said, I wouldn’t plan to spend half your day here. Walk through, look around, and then keep exploring the surrounding Historic District. There is so much more to see just outside the market.
5. Tour One of Charleston’s Historic Homes
If you’re interested in Charleston’s architecture and history, I think touring one historic home is worth adding to your itinerary. You don’t need to tour them all. Pick the one that interests you most. Here are my top picks:
Nathaniel Russell House is my favorite. I love the cantilevered staircase, the architecture, and the incredible restoration. The house gives you a really good idea of what this home would have looked like during its time.
Aiken-Rhett House is almost the opposite experience. Rather than being extensively restored, the home was preserved with many of its original features and layers of history still visible. I think it’s fascinating to see the contrast between the two.
Edmondston-Alston House is another beautiful option, especially if you want to combine a historic house visit with a walk along The Battery.
6. Take a Carriage Tour
Carriage tours are one of those Charleston experiences people have very strong opinions about. Some visitors love them, and they are certainly a popular way to see the Historic District.
It’s a great way to learn about Charleston’s history, architecture, and historic homes while getting an overview of downtown from a local guide.
I’ll be honest, though. A carriage tour isn’t my favorite way to see Charleston. I personally prefer a walking tour because you can slow down, stop for photos, and really look at the details around you.
If you do want to take a carriage tour, I would choose a company that clearly prioritizes the care of its horses. Here is the one I suggest. I also would skip a carriage tour in July and August. Charleston is hot enough on foot during those months, and I don’t think sitting in the sun on a carriage makes for the most enjoyable experience anyways.
7. Join a Walking Tour
This is probably my favorite way to see Charleston.
Charleston is incredibly walkable and being on foot lets you slow down and notice all of the little details you would miss from a car or carriage. Beautiful iron gates. Tiny gardens. Historic plaques. Architecture you might otherwise walk right past.
I also love that you can stop whenever you want for a photo, coffee, or quick peek into a shop.
There are walking tours for just about every interest, including:
- Historic walking tours for an overview of Charleston’s history
- Food tours if you want to eat your way through the city
- Ghost tours for a different look at Charleston’s history
- Architecture tours for anyone who loves the city’s homes and buildings
- Photography tours if you want to see some of the prettiest spots with a local guide
If it’s your first visit, I would do a walking tour early in your trip. You’ll get a better feel for downtown and probably leave with a list of places you want to come back to explore on your own.
There’s obviously a lot more historic attractions in Charleston, and I’ll continue below in this next category with more of the major sites you can tour vs just kind of wander.
Museums & Historic Sites in Charleston
Charleston has a complicated and incredibly important history. You can see pieces of it all over the city, from historic homes and plantations to museums, forts, and former sites of enslavement.
I don’t think you need to visit every historic site during your trip. Instead, choose a few that interest you most. Here are the ones I recommend.
8. Visit the International African American Museum
The International African American Museum is one of the newer additions to Charleston and I highly recommend making time for it.
The museum sits at Gadsden’s Wharf, a site where thousands of enslaved Africans arrived in Charleston. The exhibits go far beyond Charleston’s history and explore African American culture, contributions, family histories, and the lasting impact of slavery.
One of my favorite things about the museum is the Center for Family History, where you can explore your own family’s genealogy and connections to the African diaspora.
This isn’t a museum I’d rush through. Give yourself a few hours to really take it in. It is a heavy experience so I would choose where you put this on your itinerary.
9. Visit the Charleston Museum
The Charleston Museum is a great choice if you want a broader look at the history of the city and the Lowcountry. It is actually considered America’s first museum, dating back to 1773. And, it’s a great things to do in the summer when it’s really hot or a good rainy day activity in Charleston.
You’ll find exhibits covering everything from Charleston’s natural history to the Civil War, decorative arts, and the people who have shaped the region.
If you’re interested in history but aren’t sure where to start, this is a good introduction to Charleston’s past.
10. Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum
The Old Slave Mart Museum is an important place to visit if you want to better understand Charleston’s role in the domestic slave trade. But, it is not for every visitor.
The museum is located in what was once part of a slave market complex and focuses on the history of slavery in Charleston and the lives of enslaved people.
It is a difficult history, but it is an important part of understanding Charleston. I encourage visitors to make space for this history during their trip rather than only seeing the beautiful architecture and gardens that Charleston is known for.
11. Explore Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
If you’re traveling with kids or have an interest in military history, Patriots Point is worth adding to your list.
The main attraction is the USS Yorktown, a massive aircraft carrier that you can actually walk through. There are also other historic vessels and exhibits to explore.
I’ve found this to be a particularly fun option for families because it is so hands on. Kids can climb through the ship and see what life was like aboard an aircraft carrier rather than simply looking at exhibits behind glass.
It is also close to the Ravenel Bridge and Shem Creek, so it’s easy to pair with other things to do in Mount Pleasant.
Again, if it’s July or August, keep in mind the ship is not air conditioned! You’ll probably want to change clothes after or take a shower. No, I’m not kidding.
12. Take the Ferry to Fort Sumter
Fort Sumter is one of the most historically significant places you can visit in Charleston. It is where Confederate forces fired on Federal troops on April 12, 1861, beginning the Civil War.
I grew up going to Fort Sumter on school field trips, so I’ve visited more times than I can count. I’ve also returned as an adult through my work in Charleston tourism. The history hits differently when you’re older and have a better understanding of what happened there.
The fort itself is interesting, but I actually love the boat ride just as much. You get incredible views of Charleston Harbor, the Battery, the Ravenel Bridge, and the city skyline from the water. You may even spot dolphins or pelicans along the way.
Lindsey’s Tip: Plan for about half a day for Fort Sumter. The ferry ride takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes each way, and you’ll have time to explore the fort once you arrive. Buy your tickets ahead of time, especially during busy seasons.
I will say, that I think you need to be pretty into history if you want to spend half your day doing this. It’s cool, but it is a fort with not THAT much to do.
Read my complete guide to visiting Fort Sumter →
13. Visit Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Magnolia is best known for its romantic style gardens and they really are beautiful. The property feels lush and almost a little wild in places, which makes it different from some of Charleston’s other plantations.
I especially love Magnolia for families because there is so much to see beyond the gardens. You can explore the Audubon Swamp, see wildlife, and take the nature tram around the property.
But it is important to remember that this was a working rice plantation where enslaved people did the labor that created the Drayton family’s wealth. The beauty of the gardens exists alongside that difficult history, and I think both are important to understand when visiting.
Give yourself at least a few hours here. There is much more to see than just the gardens.
Read my guide to the best plantations to visit in Charleston →
14. Tour Middleton Place
Middleton Place is my personal favorite plantation to visit in Charleston.
The gardens are the big draw for me. They are beautifully manicured English style gardens with sweeping lawns, ponds, flowers, and some incredible old trees. Walking around the property feels a little like stepping into another world (or Downton Abbey!)
But I also appreciate that a visit isn’t just about the pretty gardens. Middleton Place tells the story of the Middleton family as well as the enslaved people whose labor made the plantation possible. There are tours and exhibits that help give a fuller picture of the property’s history.
I also love that the property still has family heirlooms and connections to the Middleton descendants. It gives the experience a more personal feeling than simply walking through a historic building.
If you only have time for one plantation, this is the one I’d personally choose.
15. Visit Boone Hall Plantation
You have probably seen Boone Hall before you even realize it. The long Avenue of Oaks leading to the plantation is one of the most recognizable views around Charleston and it has been featured in movies and television shows, including The Notebook.
The avenue is beautiful, but there is much more to see once you arrive. Boone Hall is still a working farm, and you can tour the historic home, see the former slave cabins, and learn more about the history of the people who lived and worked here.
One of my favorite parts of visiting is the Gullah presentation. It offers an opportunity to learn more about Gullah culture and its deep connection to the Lowcountry.
Boone Hall is also a good option for families especially with their tractor rides around the farm. There is plenty to explore outdoors, and the farm setting makes it feel different from a traditional museum visit.
Outdoor Activities in Charleston
Charleston is best experienced outside. We have the harbor, beaches, marshes, rivers, and so many beautiful places to walk around.
You don’t have to plan an entire day around an outdoor activity, either. Some of my favorite Charleston experiences are as simple as a morning walk, watching dolphins at Shem Creek, or catching the sunset from the water.
16. Walk the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
One of my favorite things to do in Charleston is walk the Ravenel Bridge. I especially love going early in the morning when the temperatures are cooler and you can watch the sunrise over the harbor.
The pedestrian path, called Wonders’ Way, runs 2.5 miles across the bridge. You get incredible views of Charleston Harbor, downtown, Mount Pleasant, and the surrounding marshes from the top. On a clear morning, you can even spot the beaches in the distance and sometimes see dolphins below.
You don’t have to walk the entire bridge. I often recommend walking to the top and back if you just want the views and a little exercise.
Lindsey’s Tip: If you are visiting in the summer, go early. Charleston gets HOT and there isn’t much shade once you’re on the bridge.
17. Go Crabbing with Tia
If you’re looking for something really different, go crabbing with Tia!
I finally did this experience after hearing about it for years and I had the absolute best time. Tia is a native Charlestonian who takes you out into the Lowcountry waterways to learn how to catch blue crabs while sharing stories about the local ecosystem, culture, and life in Charleston.
It is hands on, fun, and much more personal than a typical sightseeing tour. You actually get out there and learn how to crab instead of just looking at the water.
This is one of the first things I recommend to repeat visitors who have already done the major Charleston attractions and want to experience something a little different. Plus, Tia has an incredible story of her own and really enjoyed getting to know who she is!
18. Explore Cypress Gardens
Cypress Gardens is one of those places that feels completely different from downtown Charleston. It’s about 45 mins from downtown.
You’ll find winding paths, cypress trees, swampy waterways, and plenty of wildlife. You can even take a boat through the swamp when conditions allow.
If you’ve seen The Notebook, you may recognize parts of Cypress Gardens. It’s where Allie and Noah went on that boat surrounded by birds. The birds were actually brought in for the movie though and are no longer there. But even if you aren’t interested in the movie connection, it’s worth visiting for the scenery alone.
This is a good option if you want to get out of the city and see a very different side of the Lowcountry.
19. Walk Pitt Street Bridge
When I lived in the Old Village of Mount Pleasant, Pitt Street Bridge became one of my favorite sunset spots. It still is.
The views are beautiful. Look one direction and you’ll see the Charleston skyline with its church steeples. Turn around and you’ll see Sullivan’s Island and the lighthouse.
It’s popular with locals, but a lot of visitors never make it over here. I love coming around sunset to walk, watch the boats, and see herons and pelicans along the water.
Lindsey’s Tip: Pair it with a walk through the Old Village and ice cream or lunch nearby.
20. Kayak or Paddleboard Shem Creek
If you want to get out on the water, kayaking or paddleboarding around Shem Creek is a fun way to see Charleston from a completely different perspective.
And yes, you really can see dolphins. I’ve seen them countless times around Shem Creek, and it never gets old.
You can rent equipment or book a guided excursion, which is what I’d recommend if you’re unfamiliar with the waterways.
Just remember that this is an active waterway with boats and current, so use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings. That’s why I recommend a guided tour!
21. Take a Harbor Cruise or Sunset Sail
Charleston is even prettier from the water!! Seriously, don’t miss the chance to get on the water in some way.
A harbor cruise gives you a completely different view of downtown, The Battery, the Ravenel Bridge, and the Charleston skyline. If you can, I especially love doing this around sunset.
For something a little more special, book a private or small group sunset sail. You can bring a drink, relax on the boat, and watch the city light up as the sun goes down.
It’s also a great way to spot dolphins.
If you’re planning a romantic Charleston trip, this would be high on my list.
22. Stroll Through Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is one of the easiest outdoor stops to add to your Charleston itinerary because it’s right in the middle of the Historic District.
Walk along the harbor, sit beneath the live oaks, and stop at the famous Pineapple Fountain. It’s also a great place to take a break during a day of exploring downtown.
I often include Waterfront Park as part of my self guided Charleston walking route. From here, you can continue toward Rainbow Row, the French Quarter, and eventually The Battery.
Lindsey’s Tip: Don’t just stop for the Pineapple Fountain photo and leave. Walk along the water for a few minutes and enjoy the view. It’s one of those simple Charleston moments that doesn’t cost anything.
23. Spend a Day at the Beach in Charleston
One of my favorite things about Charleston is that you can spend the morning exploring downtown and be at the beach that afternoon. Each beach has a different feel, so here’s how I’d choose.
Sullivan’s Island
My pick for a local beach day. Sullivan’s is laid back, residential, and one of my favorite beaches around Charleston. I grew up spending summers here and it still feels like a true local favorite. Stay for lunch or dinner and explore the island beyond the beach.
Isle of Palms
Best for families and a classic beach day. Isle of Palms has a little more going on, with restaurants, vacation rentals, and easy access to the beach. It’s also home to Wild Dunes, making it a great option if you want to stay near the water.
Folly Beach
Best for a laid back beach town. I grew up on Folly, so this one will always be special to me. It’s casual, fun, and a little funky, with surfing, beach bars, local restaurants, and plenty to do beyond the beach.
Kiawah Island
Best for a quieter, upscale beach day. Kiawah is farther from downtown and feels much more secluded. I love it for a relaxing day surrounded by beautiful beaches and Lowcountry scenery, especially if you’re looking for a more upscale experience or place to stay.
24. Shop on King Street
I put this under the outdoor category, because it does involved spending the day outside! King Street is the main shopping destination downtown and it’s worth spending a little time wandering beyond the historic sights. You’ll find a mix of local boutiques, clothing, jewelry, home stores, and bigger brands.
Some of my favorite local stops include Croghan’s Jewel Box, Madison Mathews, Lake Pajamas, Dumas & Co., Finicky Filly, Copper Penny, and Hampden Clothing.
Foodie Things to Do in Charleston, SC
Charleston is one of my favorite food cities and eating well is a huge part of visiting. From fresh seafood and Lowcountry classics to rooftop cocktails and incredible restaurants, here are a few food experiences I always recommend.
25. Eat Fresh Seafood
You can’t visit Charleston without eating seafood. Look for local oysters, shrimp, fish, and other Lowcountry favorites while you’re here. Whether you’re sitting at a casual seafood spot or enjoying a nicer dinner, this is one part of Charleston’s food scene I never get tired of.
26. Try She Crab Soup
She crab soup is one of Charleston’s most famous dishes. It’s a rich, creamy soup made with crab and traditionally finished with sherry. If you’ve never tried it, order a cup while you’re here. You can find it on menus all over the city.
27. Enjoy a Rooftop Cocktail
Charleston has some great rooftop bars, and grabbing a drink with a view is one of my favorite ways to take a break from sightseeing. It’s especially nice around sunset.
28. Take a Food Tour
A food tour is a fun way to experience Charleston, especially on your first visit. You’ll get to try several local dishes while learning more about the city’s food history and culture. I also recommend doing one early in your trip so you can get ideas for restaurants to come back to.
29. Visit a Local Farmers Market
If you’re visiting on a Saturday, head to the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square. You’ll find local produce, prepared foods, baked goods, flowers, and plenty of Lowcountry vendors. It’s an easy way to see a more local side of Charleston.
30. Visit a Charleston Brewery
Charleston has a great local brewery scene and it’s an easy way to spend an afternoon if you want to do something a little more casual! It’s also great if you are on a guys trip to Charleston. You’ll find breweries around downtown and in nearby neighborhoods, with everything from small taprooms to larger spaces with food and outdoor seating.
If you’re traveling with kids, breweries can also be an easy option since many are relaxed and family friendly.
My favorites are:
Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co. is a must for both the beer and the food. And don’t skip the PB&J beer!
Holy City Brewing in North Charleston is another favorite, especially if you want a bigger space with plenty of room to hang out.
Munkle Brewing and Westbrook Brewing are also worth adding to your list if you’re into craft beer and want to check out more of the local brewery scene.
31. Book a Michelin Starred Restaurant
Charleston has become a serious food destination, with several restaurants recognized by the Michelin Guide! If you’re planning a special dinner, I’d look beyond the usual tourist spots and make a reservation somewhere you’ve been excited to try. Vern’s is my favorite Michelin Star spot in Charleston!
Hidden Gem Things to Do in Charleston
If you’ve already seen the big Charleston landmarks, these are a few of my favorite places to get a little off the usual tourist path.
32. See the Angel Oak Tree
The Angel Oak is one of the most impressive live oak trees you’ll ever see. It’s located on Johns Island, about 20 minutes from downtown, so you’ll need a car or rideshare to get there. It’s free to visit and doesn’t take long, making it an easy addition to a day exploring Johns Island.
33. Walk Around Colonial Lake
Colonial Lake is a quiet little spot just south of Broad Street that’s easy to miss. Take a walk around the lake, admire the historic homes nearby, and enjoy a slower side of downtown Charleston.
34. Explore Hampton Park
Hampton Park is one of my favorite places in Charleston. I live nearby, so I’m definitely biased, but it’s worth visiting if you want to see where locals spend time. The park has beautiful gardens, massive oak trees, walking paths, and plenty of space to slow down and wander. They also do a new farmer’s market on Wednesday afternoons so that’s a fun way to experience the local community.
35. See the Morris Island Lighthouse
You can see the Morris Island Lighthouse from the beach at the end of Folly Road, but getting up close requires a boat or kayak. I love this area for the views of the lighthouse, Charleston Harbor, and the surrounding coastline.
36. Find the Gateway Walk
The Gateway Walk is one of Charleston’s best little secrets. This hidden garden path winds through churchyards and historic cemeteries in the heart of downtown. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and easy to miss if you don’t know where to look!
Family Friendly Things to Do in Charleston
Charleston is very doable with kids, including little kids. I wouldn’t try to fill your trip with children’s attractions, but having a few options in your back pocket can be helpful, especially when you need a break from sightseeing.
37. Visit the South Carolina Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium is one of my favorite family friendly stops downtown. Kids can see sea turtles, sharks, alligators, and plenty of other animals native to South Carolina. It’s also a great option on a hot or rainy day.
38. Explore the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is geared toward younger kids, with hands on exhibits where they can play, explore, and burn off some energy. It’s an easy addition to a downtown day if your kids need a break from walking and sightseeing. We go all the time and love it!
39. Visit Charles Towne Landing
Charles Towne Landing is a great option for families who want to combine history with time outside. There are gardens, walking trails, animals, and plenty of space to explore, so kids aren’t expected to spend the whole visit quietly looking at historic buildings. There’s also a fun replica ship that kids can explore. It’s supposed to show you what the first settlers arrived on!
40. Tour the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon
The Old Exchange is one of the most interesting historic buildings downtown, especially if you’re visiting with older kids. The building has played a major role in Charleston’s history, and tours take you into the Provost Dungeon below the building. It’s a fun way to make history feel a little more tangible for kids.
41. Go to a Minor League Baseball Game
If you’re visiting during baseball season, check the Charleston RiverDogs schedule. A baseball game is a fun, casual evening activity and a nice break from traditional sightseeing.
42. Take a Ghost Tour
Charleston’s ghost tours aren’t just for adults. If your kids are old enough to enjoy a little spooky history, this can be one of the most fun ways to explore the city after dark. Look for a family friendly tour rather than one focused on the scarier side of Charleston’s history.
More Charleston Travel Guides to Help You Plan
Planning a trip to Charleston? I’ve got plenty more guides to help you put your trip together.
Looking to save money? Start with my guide to Free Things to Do in Charleston.
Visiting when the weather isn’t cooperating? Here’s my guide to Rainy Day Activities in Charleston.
Trying to decide where to stay? Browse my favorite Charleston Hotels and my guides to the city’s different neighborhoods.
And if eating your way through Charleston is high on your list, don’t miss my Charleston Food Guide with all of my favorite restaurants and local spots.
Before You Visit Charleston, SC
A little planning goes a long way when visiting Charleston. Here’s what I recommend knowing before you book your trip.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Charleston?
I’d recommend at least three days in Charleston for a first visit. That gives you enough time to explore the Historic District, eat at some great restaurants, and spend time outside without feeling like you’re rushing from one thing to the next.
If you have four or five days, even better. You can add a beach day, explore some of the areas outside downtown, or simply slow down and enjoy the city.
Best Time to Visit Charleston
Charleston is a year round destination, but each season feels a little different. Spring and fall are popular for the milder weather, while summer is hot and humid but great for beach days. Winter is quieter and can be a nice time to visit if you don’t mind cooler temperatures.
My favorite time to visit depends on what you want to do, so I put together a full guide to help you choose the right season for your trip.
Read my guide to the Best Time to Visit Charleston →
Where to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina
For a first visit, I usually recommend staying downtown in the Historic District so you can walk to many of the city’s main sights, restaurants, and shops.
That said, Charleston has several great areas to stay depending on the type of trip you’re planning. You can also stay outside downtown if you want more space, easier parking, or a beach focused trip.
As a travel advisor, I have stayed in and booked a lot of Charleston hotels over the years, so I can always help if you’d like hands-on guidance. Inquire here or get access to my exclusive client hotel portal to browse and book luxury hotels with my VIP perks like free breakfast and hotel credit!
There are a lot of great hotels in Charleston, and the right one really depends on your budget and the type of trip you’re planning. These are a few of my favorites in different price ranges.
Luxury
- The Dewberry: A favorite of mine for its design, location, and great restaurants and bars.
- Hotel Bennett: A beautiful full service luxury hotel right on Marion Square with a rooftop pool and several restaurants.
- The Charleston Place: A Charleston classic in the heart of the Historic District, with a full service hotel experience and one of the best locations in the city.
- The Cooper: A newer luxury waterfront hotel with beautiful harbor views, a pool, spa, and several restaurants.
Boutique & Upscale
- 86 Cannon: A small boutique hotel in the Cannonborough neighborhood with beautiful historic architecture, a courtyard, pool, and a more intimate feel. It’s adults only, so this is one I’d save for a couples trip.
- Zero George: One of Charleston’s most charming boutique hotels, set among restored historic residences and carriage houses around a private courtyard. It’s a great choice if you want something intimate and distinctly Charleston.
- The Restoration: A good option if you want a boutique hotel with larger suites and residences. I especially like this one for families or longer stays when having more space is helpful.
Moderate
- Francis Marion Hotel: A historic hotel right on King Street and a great choice if location is a priority.
- Fulton Lane Inn: A smaller boutique hotel tucked right off King Street with a more intimate feel.
- The Lowline Hotel: A newer option on King Street with a more modern feel and a great location for exploring the city.
Budget Friendly
- Hampton Inn Charleston Historic District: A practical option within walking distance of many downtown attractions.
- Embassy Suites Historic Charleston: A good choice for families or anyone who wants more space, with an included breakfast and an easy downtown location.
- Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Waterfront: A good option if you want to stay just outside the heart of downtown and don’t mind being a little farther from the main Historic District.
FAQ
What are the best things to do in Charleston for first time visitors?
If it’s your first time in Charleston, I’d start with a walk through the Historic District, The Battery, Rainbow Row, and the French Quarter. Then make time for a great meal, a walking tour, and at least one experience outside downtown.
Is Charleston worth visiting?
Absolutely. I may be biased as a lifelong Charleston local, but I think Charleston is one of those cities where you can do a lot without feeling like you have to constantly be sightseeing. You can spend the morning learning about the city’s history, have an amazing lunch, wander the shops, and end the day watching the sunset over the water.
Is Charleston Walkable
Yes. Downtown Charleston is very walkable, especially the Historic District. Most of the major sights, restaurants, shops, and historic homes are close together. I actually think walking is one of the best ways to see Charleston because you’ll notice so many beautiful homes, gardens, churches, and little details along the way.
What is Charleston famous for?
Charleston is best known for its history, historic architecture, Lowcountry food, beautiful beaches, and Southern culture. It’s also known for its colorful homes, live oaks, harbor views, and some of the country’s oldest historic sites. And, of course, our food scene has become a huge reason people visit.
What’s the best beach near Charleston?
That really depends on what you’re looking for. Sullivan’s Island is my personal favorite for a more local, laid back beach day. Isle of Palms is great for families and has more amenities nearby, while Folly Beach has a casual beach town feel and is especially popular for surfing and a livelier atmosphere. If you’re looking for something quieter and more upscale, Kiawah Island is another great option.
In My Opinion: The Best Things to Do in Charleston
Charleston is one of those places that gets better when you slow down. Of course, you should see Rainbow Row, walk The Battery, and check off the big sights. But some of my favorite Charleston memories have nothing to do with checking things off a list.
They’re lingering over a really good dinner. Watching dolphins from Shem Creek. Wandering down a quiet street and noticing the gardens and little details you would have missed if you were rushing.
I’ve lived here my whole life and I still find new places to love. I hope this guide helps you experience Charleston beyond the usual tourist stops and see a little bit of the city that I love so much.
And if you have questions while planning your trip, feel free to reach out. I genuinely love helping people discover my hometown.
Save it for later! | Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC
