15 Amazing Things to Do in Charleston You Can’t Miss

Have you ever wondered what makes Charleston one of America’s most beloved cities, drawing millions of visitors who fall head over heels for its charm? This beautiful Southern gem offers a perfect blend of history, culture, food, and coastal beauty that creates an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Charleston, South Carolina, is like stepping into a living storybook. The city’s cobblestone streets whisper tales of the past while its modern attractions keep you excited for what’s around the next corner. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore more, there are countless things to do in Charleston that will make your trip absolutely magical.

From horse-drawn carriage rides through historic districts to sunset sails in the harbor, Charleston offers something special for everyone. The city’s rich history dates back over 350 years, and you can feel that heritage in every brick building and tree-lined street. But Charleston isn’t stuck in the past – it’s a vibrant, growing city with amazing restaurants, fun activities, and warm, welcoming people.

Historic Downtown Charleston

The heart of Charleston beats strongest in its historic downtown area. Walking through these streets is like taking a trip back in time. The things to do in Charleston’s historic district are endless and fascinating.

Start your adventure with a walking tour of the French Quarter. This area is full of beautiful old buildings, charming shops, and interesting stories. You’ll see rainbow-colored houses on Rainbow Row, which is one of the most photographed spots in the city. These 13 houses were built in the 1700s and are painted in soft, pretty colors that look amazing in photos.

The Charleston City Market is another must-see spot. This long, covered market has been around since the 1800s. Today, you can buy local crafts, sweetgrass baskets, and souvenirs. The ladies who weave the baskets learned this art from their grandmothers, keeping an old tradition alive.

Don’t miss St. Michael’s Church, which has the oldest church bells in North America. The church is beautiful inside and out, and climbing the bell tower gives you an amazing view of the city.

Plantations and Gardens

Some of the most beautiful things to do in Charleston involve exploring the area’s stunning plantations and gardens. These places show you how people lived long ago while surrounding you with incredible natural beauty.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a favorite for many visitors. The gardens are over 300 years old and bloom with different flowers throughout the year. Spring is especially pretty when the azaleas bloom in bright pinks and purples. You can take a boat tour through the swamp to see alligators and birds, or ride a tram through the plantation grounds.

Middleton Place is another amazing plantation to visit. It has America’s oldest landscaped gardens, which are perfectly designed and maintained. The house museum shows you how wealthy families lived in the old days. You can also see craftspeople demonstrate old skills like blacksmithing and pottery making.

Boone Hall Plantation is famous for its long driveway lined with huge oak trees. This “Avenue of Oaks” is one of the most beautiful sights in Charleston. The plantation also has tours that teach you about the difficult history of slavery and the people who worked the land.

Food and Dining Experiences

Charleston’s food scene is absolutely incredible, and trying the local cuisine is definitely one of the top things to do in Charleston. The city is famous for its Lowcountry cooking, which mixes influences from African, European, and Caribbean cultures.

Shrimp and grits is Charleston’s most famous dish. This creamy, comforting meal combines fresh local shrimp with smooth, buttery grits. Every restaurant makes it a little differently, so try it at several places to find your favorite.

She-crab soup is another local specialty. This rich, creamy soup is made with blue crab meat and crab eggs. It’s been a Charleston favorite for over 200 years.

Take a food tour to taste lots of different dishes in one trip. These tours take you to several restaurants and food shops, so you can try everything from biscuits to pralines to barbecue. The guides tell you stories about Charleston’s food history while you eat.

Don’t forget to try some sweet tea and boiled peanuts – they’re Southern traditions that Charleston does perfectly.

Harbor and Water Activities

Charleston sits right on the water, so many of the best things to do in Charleston involve boats, beaches, and harbor fun. The Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet here before flowing into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a beautiful waterfront area.

Take a sunset sail in Charleston Harbor. These boat trips are romantic and relaxing, with beautiful views of the city skyline as the sun goes down. You might see dolphins swimming alongside your boat – they love Charleston’s waters and often come close to say hello.

Harbor tours are great for learning about Charleston’s maritime history. You’ll see Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began, and learn about the city’s important role as a port. Some tours include stops at the fort, where you can explore the historic buildings and exhibits.

Folly Beach is just 15 minutes from downtown Charleston and offers great swimming, surfing, and beach walking. The Folly Beach Pier is perfect for fishing or just enjoying ocean views. Morris Island Lighthouse, visible from the beach, is a beautiful landmark that makes for great photos.

Carriage Tours and Ghost Walks

Some of the most fun things to do in Charleston are the special tours that show you the city in unique ways. Horse-drawn carriage tours are a classic Charleston experience that families love.

During a carriage tour, you’ll clip-clop through the historic streets while a guide tells you interesting stories about the buildings and people you’re seeing. The horses know the routes well and add to the old-fashioned charm of the experience. Most tours last about an hour and cover the main historic areas.

Ghost tours are popular in Charleston because the city has lots of spooky stories and legends. These evening walks take you to supposedly haunted places while guides tell scary stories about ghosts, pirates, and mysterious events. Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, the tours are entertaining and teach you about Charleston’s darker history.

Some ghost tours focus on graveyards, others on haunted houses, and some combine both. The Unitarian Church Graveyard is a popular stop because it’s old and atmospheric, especially at night.

Shopping and Arts Scene

Charleston has wonderful shopping and arts opportunities that rank among the great things to do in Charleston. King Street is the main shopping area, with everything from big chain stores to unique local boutiques.

Upper King Street is where you’ll find the newest, trendiest shops and galleries. This area has grown a lot in recent years and now has cool restaurants, art studios, and designer stores. It’s fun to walk around and discover new places.

Lower King Street is more historic and has antique shops, art galleries, and stores selling Charleston-made products. You can find beautiful sweetgrass baskets, local artwork, and unique gifts that you can’t get anywhere else.

The Charleston Farmers Market happens on Saturdays in Marion Square. Local farmers sell fresh fruits and vegetables, while craftspeople offer handmade jewelry, soaps, and art. It’s a great place to meet locals and taste fresh, seasonal foods.

Beaches and Outdoor Fun

The beautiful beaches near Charleston offer some of the most relaxing things to do in Charleston. Each beach has its own personality and attractions.

Isle of Palms is a family-friendly beach with calm waters and wide, sandy shores. The beach has public access points, restrooms, and nearby restaurants. Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms has golf courses and vacation rentals if you want to stay right on the beach.

Sullivan’s Island is quieter and less crowded. It has a more natural feel, with fewer buildings and more dune grass. Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island is an interesting historic site where you can learn about coastal defense and see old cannons.

Kiawah Island is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in America. The Ocean Course golf resort here is world-famous, but you don’t have to play golf to enjoy the stunning scenery and pristine beaches.

Museums and Cultural Sites

Charleston’s museums and cultural attractions provide educational things to do in Charleston that are both fun and informative.

The Charleston Museum is America’s first museum, founded in 1773. It has exhibits about local history, including Native American artifacts, Civil War items, and displays about Charleston’s role in early America. The museum also operates two historic houses that you can tour.

The Gibbes Museum of Art focuses on American art, with special attention to Southern artists and Charleston’s cultural history. The building itself is beautiful, and the rotating exhibits always offer something new to see.

The Old Slave Mart Museum is an important place that teaches visitors about the slave trade that was central to Charleston’s early economy. This small but powerful museum helps people understand a difficult part of American history.

Day Trips from Charleston

If you have extra time, there are wonderful things to do in Charleston’s surrounding areas that make great day trips.

Savannah, Georgia, is about two hours south and offers more Southern charm, historic squares, and great food. You can drive there or take a bus tour that handles all the planning for you.

The Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island is a massive, ancient live oak that’s over 400 years old. This incredible tree is 65 feet tall and 187 feet across. It’s free to visit and makes for amazing photos.

Beaufort is a smaller historic town about an hour south of Charleston. It has beautiful antebellum homes, waterfront views, and a slower pace that’s perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Final Thoughts

Charleston truly offers something special for every type of traveler. From history lovers to food enthusiasts, from beach goers to culture seekers, the things to do in Charleston create memories that last a lifetime. The city’s combination of old-world charm and modern amenities makes it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Plan to spend at least three or four days in Charleston to really experience what the city has to offer. Each neighborhood has its own character, each restaurant has its own specialties, and each historic site has its own stories to tell. The more time you spend here, the more you’ll understand why people fall in love with Charleston and keep coming back year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Charleston? A: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Summer can be very hot and humid, while winter is mild but some attractions may have limited hours.

Q: How many days should I spend in Charleston? A: Plan for at least 3-4 days to see the main attractions. A week allows you to explore more thoroughly and take day trips to nearby areas.

Q: Is Charleston expensive to visit? A: Charleston can be pricey, especially for hotels and fine dining. However, many attractions like walking through historic neighborhoods, visiting beaches, and exploring markets are free or low-cost.

Q: Do I need a car in Charleston? A: Downtown Charleston is very walkable, and many attractions are within walking distance. However, a car is helpful for visiting plantations, beaches, and areas outside the historic district.

Q: What should I wear when visiting Charleston? A: Dress comfortably for walking on cobblestone streets. In summer, light, breathable clothing is essential. Bring a light jacket for evening harbor cruises, even in warm weather.

Q: Are Charleston’s ghost tours suitable for children? A: Most ghost tours are designed to be spooky but not terrifying. However, they typically take place late in the evening and may not be ideal for very young children. Check with tour companies about age recommendations.