23 Amazing Things to Do & See in Charleston, SC


Charleston, South Carolina is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, charming architecture, and scenic beauty. Here are 23 tips for your next trip to this amazing city!

1. Broad Street

Broad Street
Charleston, South Carolina

Broad Street in Charleston is a historic and vibrant thoroughfare known for its charming architecture, bustling shops, and rich cultural heritage. Lined with elegant 18th and 19th-century buildings, it is home to galleries, restaurants, and notable landmarks, including the historic City Hall and the Charleston Library Society. Broad Street offers a picturesque and lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those exploring the city’s history, shopping, and dining scene.

2. St. Michael’s Church

St. Michael's Church
Charleston, South Carolina

St. Michael’s Church in Charleston is a historic Anglican church, known for its striking architecture and role in the city’s religious and cultural history. Built in the 1750s, it features a beautiful Georgian design with a tall steeple that is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The church is famous for its historic significance, stunning interior, and the graves of notable figures, including the signers of the U.S. Constitution. It remains an active place of worship and a popular site for visitors to explore.

3. Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row
Charleston, South Carolina

Rainbow Row in Charleston is a famous stretch of 13 colorful historic homes along East Bay Street, known for their pastel hues and charming 18th-century architecture. The vibrant row of Georgian-style houses is one of the most photographed sights in the city, offering a picturesque glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Originally built as merchants’ homes, Rainbow Row has become an iconic symbol of Charleston’s beauty, history, and southern charm.

4. Castle Pinckney

Castle Pinckney
Charleston, South Carolina

Castle Pinckney is a small, historic fort located on an island in the Harbor. Built in the early 1800s, it was originally used to defend the port during the War of 1812 and later served as a military prison during the Civil War. Though now a National Historic Site, the fort is not always open to the public, but it offers a unique look at Charleston’s military history and provides scenic views of the harbor and surrounding area.

5. Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon

Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
Charleston, South Carolina

The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon in Charleston is a historic building dating back to 1771, originally serving as a customs house and later as a British military prison during the American Revolution. The site offers guided tours that explore its role in Charleston’s colonial and revolutionary history, including its use as a venue for public meetings and a prison for captured patriots. Visitors can also tour the Provost Dungeon, where prisoners were held, making it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts.

6. Angel Oak Tree

Angel Oak Tree
Charleston, South Carolina

The Angel Oak Tree, located in Angel Oak Park in Charleston, is a Southern live oak estimated to be over 400 years old, making it one of the oldest living things in the country. Standing at 65 feet tall with a canopy that provides shade over 17,000 square feet, it is an awe-inspiring natural wonder. The tree is named for its grandeur and the legend that angels are seen around it at night. It’s a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and those seeking to experience Charleston’s rich natural heritage.

7. Magnolia Plantation

Magnolia Plantation
Charleston, South Carolina

Magnolia Plantation in Charleston is a historic estate founded in 1676, known for its stunning gardens, historic house, and rich history. The plantation offers visitors a chance to explore its beautiful landscapes, including one of the oldest public gardens in America, as well as the historic mansion, nature trails, and a wildlife refuge. It’s home to the nation’s oldest romantic garden and many alligators!

8. King Street

King Street
Charleston, South Carolina

King Street in Charleston is a vibrant and historic thoroughfare known for its mix of shopping, dining, and architecture. Lined with beautiful 18th- and 19th-century buildings, the street offers a variety of boutique shops, galleries, antique stores, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. King Street is also home to historic landmarks and charming cobblestone streets, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern conveniences in the heart of Charleston.

9. Hyman’s Seafood Restaurant

Hyman's Seafood Restaurant
Charleston, South Carolina

Hyman’s Seafood Restaurant in Charleston is a beloved, family-owned eatery known for its fresh seafood and Southern hospitality. Established in 1890, the restaurant serves a wide variety of seafood dishes, including shrimp, oysters, and fish, along with traditional Southern sides. Its historic atmosphere, combined with hearty portions and flavorful dishes, makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Charleston dining experience.

10. Arthur Ravenel Junior Bridge

Arthur Ravenel Junior Bridge
Charleston, South Carolina

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in Charleston is a striking cable-stayed bridge that spans the Cooper River, connecting downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant. Opened in 2005, it is one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the U.S. The bridge features a distinctive design with tall, soaring towers and sweeping views of the river and Charleston Harbor. It is not only a key transportation route but also a popular spot for pedestrians and cyclists, offering scenic vistas along the Lowcountry coastline.

11. Fort Moultrie

Fort Moultrie
Charleston, South Carolina

Fort Moultrie, located on Sullivan’s Island, is a historic site that played a significant role in America’s early military history. Built in the 1770s, it was the site of a key American victory during the Revolutionary War and later served through the Civil War. Visitors can explore the fort’s preserved structures, learn about its history through exhibits, and enjoy views of Charleston Harbor. It’s a must-visit for those interested in U.S. military history and the nation’s struggle for independence.

12. French Quarter & Historic Homes

French Quarter & Historic Homes
Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s French Quarter is a charming, historic district known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and cultural significance. It’s home to some of the city’s oldest and most beautiful historic homes, many dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore the area’s galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, while admiring the well-preserved architecture. The French Quarter offers a picturesque glimpse into the city’s past, with its blend of history, art, and Southern charm.

13. Heyward Washington House

Heyward Washington House
Charleston, South Carolina

The Heyward-Washington House is a historic home dating back to the 18th century, once owned by Thomas Heyward Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The house offers insight into Charleston’s colonial and revolutionary history, featuring period furnishings and exhibits on early American life. It also holds historical significance as George Washington stayed there during his Southern tour in 1791. The house is a fascinating stop for visitors interested in the nation’s early history and the city’s role in it.

14. Cobblestone Alleyway

Cobblestone Alleyway
Charleston, South Carolina

Cobblestone Alleyway, often referred to as “Chalmers Street,” is a historic lane in the heart of the city’s downtown area. The alley features charming cobblestone paving, a hallmark of Charleston’s colonial-era streets. Surrounded by historic buildings and tucked away from the more tourist-heavy areas, it offers a glimpse into the city’s past with its quaint atmosphere and unique, picturesque setting. It’s a favorite spot for photography and a peaceful retreat in the bustling city.

15. Powder Magazine

Powder Magazine
Charleston, South Carolina

The Powder Magazine in Charleston is one of the oldest public buildings in the U.S., dating back to 1713. It was originally used to store gunpowder and munitions for the city’s defense. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing the city’s colonial military history and the role the city played in early American defense. Visitors can explore the exhibits on the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and the city’s early fortifications, making it an important historical site for those interested in Charleston’s military past.

16. Dock Street Theatre

Dock Street Theatre
Charleston, South Carolina

The Dock Street Theatre in Charleston is a historic theater, originally opened in 1736, and is one of the oldest in the United States. Known for its stunning architecture and rich history, it has hosted a variety of performances, from plays to musicals, and remains an active venue today. The theater has been beautifully restored and is celebrated for its role in the city’s cultural life, offering a glimpse into the city’s artistic heritage while providing modern-day entertainment in a historic setting.

17. Huguenot French Protestant Church

Huguenot French Protestant Church
Charleston, South Carolina

The Huguenot French Protestant Church in Charleston is a historic church founded in 1687 by French Huguenot immigrants fleeing religious persecution. It is the oldest continuously used French Protestant church in America. The church features stunning Gothic Revival architecture, with a distinctive spire and beautiful stained glass windows. Visitors can explore its rich history, which reflects the city’s diverse cultural and religious heritage, and learn about the significant role the Huguenots played in the city’s development.

18. Saint Phillips Church

Saint Phillips Church
Charleston, South Carolina

St. Philip’s Church in Charleston is a historic Episcopal church founded in 1680, making it one of the oldest churches in the United States. The church is known for its beautiful Georgian architecture, with a striking bell tower and elegant interior. It has played a significant role in the city’s religious and cultural history, hosting notable figures such as George Washington. Visitors can explore its rich history, admire its stunning architecture, and visit the churchyard, which serves as the final resting place for many prominent Charlestonians.

19. Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist
Charleston, South Carolina

The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Charleston is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture, completed in 1907. Known for its impressive twin spires, intricate stained glass windows, and grand interior, it is one of the most beautiful churches in the city. As the seat of the Diocese of Charleston, the cathedral plays a central role in the local Catholic community. Visitors can admire its architectural beauty, attend services, or explore its rich history and religious significance.

20. Walled City of Charles Town

Walled City of Charles Town
Charleston, South Carolina

The Walled City of Charles Town refers to the original fortified area of Charleston, established in the late 1600s. Surrounded by walls and moats, the city was designed to protect the early settlers from attack. Although the walls were eventually dismantled, the area within the original boundary remains rich in historic sites, including cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, and landmarks. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the walled city, learning about its early defense systems and the role the city played in America’s colonial history.

21. Washington Square

Washington Square
Charleston, South Carolina

Washington Square in Charleston is a historic public park located in the heart of the city. Originally a site for military drills and a burial ground, it is now a peaceful green space surrounded by historic buildings. The park features monuments, including a statue of John C. Calhoun, and offers a tranquil spot for visitors to relax while exploring the city. Washington Square is a key part of the city’s history, reflecting its colonial and Civil War heritage, and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

22. East Battery Street Ocean Walk

ast Battery Street Ocean Walk
Charleston, South Carolina

The East Battery Street Ocean Walk in Charleston is a scenic promenade along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the Charleston Harbor, historic mansions, and the iconic Battery Park. The walk is lined with beautiful historic homes and offers a peaceful, picturesque setting to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can stroll along the walk, take in views of Fort Sumter, and appreciate the area’s historic significance as a defensive site during the Civil War. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy the region’s coastal beauty.

23. Morris Lighthouse on Folly Beach

Morris Lighthouse on Folly Beach

Morris Island Lighthouse, located on Folly Beach near Charleston, is an iconic lighthouse known for its striking appearance and historic significance. Built in 1876, the lighthouse stands on a small island off the coast and has been a symbol of maritime safety for centuries. Although it is no longer operational, it remains a popular subject for photographers and visitors, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the area’s maritime history. Accessible by boat or from the beach, it is a picturesque landmark on the coastline.

Final Thoughts on Traveling to Charleston, SC

In case you’re interested in an adventure near Tennessee, check out Glen Falls here. But if you want to watch a the video of our journey to Charleston, see it here.

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