Charleston in March

Things to Do in Charleston in March (2020)

This post covers the best things to do in Charleston in March and has been updated for 2020, including nighttime, free, as well as family-friendly events and activities. 

 

 
 

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO AND EVENTS IN MARCH

This section features our top 10 activities to enjoy in Charleston throughout March. Whenever possible, we will make note of attractions and events that are free, family-friendly or great after dark.

For tips on the most popular activities in Charleston, check out our schedule of pay-what-you-like walking tours, our bus tours, and boat cruise pages.

Several of the items below are already included for free with the purchase of a tourist discount pass.

1. See a Show

Charleston may be a small town, but there are a number of music events throughout the year to enjoy. Below are a number of shows passing through Charleston:

For more things to do at night in Charleston, check out our nighttime section below. 

2. See the St. Patrick’s Day Parade 

March 14, 2020

If you’re in Charleston for St. Patrick’s Day, then you’re in for a fun-filled celebration of food, music, and culture.

The highlight of the day is in arguably the St. Paddy’s Day Parade, which begins at King and Radcliffe Street at 10:00 am. 

Other fun St. Patrick’s Day activities include: 

  • Mass at St. Patrick’s church
  • Annual Tri-Color Flag Raising at City Hall
  • The singing of the Irish national anthem 
  • Traditional Irish-American boiled lunch (corn beef and fixings) served by the Knights of Columbus
  • Performance featuring bagpipers and step dancers
  • Celebrations at Tommy Condon’s Irish Pub and Seafood Restaurant 

Learn more about St. Patrick’s Day in Charleston here. 

3. Take A Tour!

March is a great time to take one (or more!) of our 2-hour walking tours as the weather is warmer but not yet stifling.

Our guided walks are free to join and operate on a pay-what-you-like basis, which means you decide what a tour was worth or what you could afford (even free) when the tour is over.

 

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We also have self-guided tours and GPS-enabled audio tours if you cannot join our scheduled walking tours. Check out our schedule page to see what we have available when you are here.

March is also a great time to take a ghost tour as it will still be dark out, especially at the beginning of the month, to set the mood for the earlier tour times without having to stay out late to experience the graveyards at night.

4. Visit Magnolia Plantation 

There are several different plantations in the Charleston area, but Magnolia Plantation is arguably the most popular.

It features the last large-scale Romantic Gardens left in the United States, which includes a large swamp and dozens of different plants and flowers growing wildly around the property.

 

 

In the month of March, the roses and wisteria are in bloom, making it an especially beautiful time of year to visit.

Several tour operators run tours from Charleston and Myrtle Beach to Magnolia Plantation, as well as other plantations.

Read our post comparing Charleston plantation tours to learn more. 

5. Charleston Fashion Week

Even if fashion isn’t your forte, Charleston Fashion Week is a fantastic event to behold if you’re in town during the month of March.

 

 

Held annually in Marion Square, it showcases designers from all across the country.

In addition to seeing the latest trends walk down the runway, there is also the opportunity to buy items from different vendors.

Tickets start at $50 per person. 

6. Charleston Wine + Food Festival

March 4- March 8, 2020

The annual Charleston Wine + Food Festival takes place early March and features several different signature events, signature dinners, beverage workshops, guided excursions, and hands-on classes.

 

 

Additionally, the festival hosts the Culinary Village- a hub of food and wine tastings, chef demos, live music, and retail therapy in Marion Square. 

Check out our list of Lowcountry foods to try, as well as our comparison post of the best food tours in Charleston to learn even more about the local food culture.

7. Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island

Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island is one of the most photographed sites in all of Charleston.

Believed to be between 400-500 years old, the Southern live oak that grows in the center of the park measures 28 feet wide and  66.5 feet tall.

 

 

Because it is a Live Oak, the tree keeps its leaves year-round, so while the rest of Spring foliage is waiting to bloom in March, the Angel Oak Tree is great to photograph no matter when you visit.

If you’re looking for a fun and free way to spend an afternoon in Charleston in March, then head to Johns Island!

Read our post comparing the best bus tours in Charleston to learn which ones visit Angel Oak Tree. 

Best of all, there is no admission cost to explore Angel Oak Tree Park. For more free things to do in Charleston in March, read our free things to do section below.

8. Festival of Houses and Gardens

March 11 – April 18, 2020

One of the most popular events to take place in Charleston every year, the Festival of Houses and Gardens invites the public to tour more than 150 private houses and gardens in the historic district of the city, including the Aiken-Rhett House.

 

 

Each property dates back to anywhere from the Georgian and Antebellum periods into the early 20th century, and “showcases Charleston’s distinctive architecture, history, gardens, and culture.”

Tickets are available from November and tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to get yours as soon as possible. All proceeds benefit the Historic Charleston Foundation. 

Learn more about the Festival of Houses and Gardens here. 

9. Attend a Sporting Event

You can attend a sports game in Charleston! Their NFL hockey team, the South Carolina Stingrays, plays a few matches in March, which you can attend at the North Charleston Coliseum. 

For more family-friendly things to do in Charleston in March, check out our kids’ section below. 

10. Get Free Tickets with a Tourist Discount Pass

Admittedly, these passes have a cost.  However, if you plan well, you will essentially get several tickets to attractions or tours each day for free. Tourist discount passes work by bundling multiple tickets into one price, usually between 20%-50% the retail price.   

Read our post comparing the different Charleston tourist discount passes.  Several bus tour companies, including hop-on-hop-off buses, also offer discounts and deals. 

TIP: Our Guide to Free Things to do in Charleston lists a number of activities and events that won’t cost you a dime!

 

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Below are our sections on things to do in at night, for free, or for families in March.

For more ideas for any time of year, be sure to read our master post on Things to do in Charleston. 

 

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THINGS TO DO AT NIGHT IN MARCH

Below is just a short sampling of the many things to do in Charleston at night in March. 

Between St. Patrick’s Day festivities and the Charleston Food + Wine Festival, there are many things to do at night in the city. 

For suggestions on other nighttime activities, see our post Things to do at Night in Charleston.

Visit the King Street Shopping District

King Street is over 300 years old and is considered one of the most famous streets in all of the United States. It is a bustling retail corridor filled with all sorts of shops.

It also has a variety of hotels, art galleries, bars, and restaurants- all of which promise to keep you occupied late into the night.

Attend a Pub Crawl

Pub crawls are a fun way to learn about the local nightlife. For a more traditional pub crawl experience, join Bulldog Tours on their Upper King Street Pub Tour which shares the history of prohibition, pirates, and pubs in Charleston.

Alternatively, you can go on a Mixology Tour with Charleston Culinary Tours and visit 3 different bars that are highly regarded for their exquisite cocktails. 

Click here to read a comparison of the pubs crawls offered by Bulldog Tours and Charleston Culinary Tours. 

TIP: For many more ideas, be sure to take a look at our post, Things to do at Night in Charleston.

Have a Laugh at Theatre 99 

Theatre 99 is a vast 130-seat theatre and Charleston’s “Home for Improv Comedy”.

Since it opened in 2000, Theatre 99 has been a great place to gather for locals and tourists alike for great comedy shows.

The shows are audience-led, giving each performance a unique touch as performances go off of audience suggestions. This makes it a great place to go back to again and again! 

Take a Sunset Boat Tour

If you want to try something romantic, take a sunset cruise in the Charleston Harbor! There are a number of Charleston Harbor tours to choose from to get great views of the Charleston Harbor.

 

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Learn about the different sunset cruises and decide which Charleston harbor cruise is best for you.

 

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FREE THINGS TO DO IN MARCH

Here are just a few of the many free things you can do in Charleston in March. 

Be sure to check out the other sections of this post, as many of these other ideas are free, such as visiting the Angel Oak Tree. 

For even more free activities, see our guide to free things to do in Charleston.

Visit Charleston Art Walk

March 6, 2020

Join the Charleston Gallery Association on an Art Walk through the historic streets of Charleston on the first Friday of every month.

Start at any of the downtown galleries and stroll through the historic streets of Charleston from 5 pm – 8 pm.

More than 40 art galleries will stay open late and offer free refreshments as you peruse the artwork. Take a look at the map to plan your route.

See the Ravenel Bridge 

Ravenel Bridge is one of the most iconic sites in Charleston, and best of all, it’s free to visit! You are can walk across the bridge and enjoy fantastic views of Charleston and the harbor from above.

If you’d like to be guided across the bridge, then consider joining a bus tour instead. 

 

 

We include the Ravenel Bridge as one of the top 10 things to see in Charleston. 

Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour with Free Tours by Foot

If you want to learn more about Charleston’s history but aren’t prepared to spend money on a tour, then follow our free self-guided tour of historic Charleston. 

This tour will take you to all the most famous sites and attractions around the city.

As it is self-guided, you can move at your own pace and focus on the areas of the city you are most interested in seeing. The full tour typically takes about 2 hours if you move at a slow but steady pace.

Visit St. Michael’s Episcopal Church

The oldest surviving religious structure in Charleston, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church is located at Broad and Meeting streets in the heart of the historic district.

It was built between 1751-1761 and features incredible stain glass windows and woodwork. The church is open to the public and welcomes visitors to attend Mass.

During Holy Week, it offers several worship services throughout the day.  Visit their website for more information on visiting.

 

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THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN MARCH

Below are just a few of the ideas for things to do with kids in Charleston in March. 

Some of the items mentioned above would also qualify for inclusion here, including taking a Historic Charleston Walking Tour or visiting Fort Sumter.

You might also want to read our Charleston on a Budget guide for tips on how to save when traveling as a family. 

Visit the Charleston Museum

Described in many reviews as a “must-see”, the Charleston Museum is a small but powerful natural history museum featuring exhibits that highlight the city’s long and complex history.

When purchasing tickets, you can “choose your own museum adventure” by selecting between 1-3 sites.

This is a great way for people of all ages to learn about the area’s regional history. 

Charleston Museum is included on the Heritage Passport, which is a discount pass for visitors. Learn more about it in our post. 

This museum is popular with families and has an entire kids section.

See the USS Yorktown and Patriots Point

Located on Charleston Harbor at the base of the Ravenel Bridge, Patriots Point is the home of the USS Yorktown and the Maritime Museum.

Having served as an important carrier from World War II through the 1960s, the USS Yorktown now sits as the centerpiece of the museum and invites visitors to enjoy a “hands-on history lesson.”

This site is especially popular with families and school groups as there are lots of interactive exhibits and educational opportunities. 

If you’re traveling with an organized youth trip of 10 or more, you can even sleep onboard the USS Yorktown in an onboard campout! Find out more here.

Attend a Dress Parade at the Citadel

March 6 & 28, 2020

Watch the cadets from the Citadel parade on select Fridays throughout the year.

The precision drill movements and military parade are always a highlight for families visiting and these events are free and open to the public.

 

 

On March 28, 2020, there will be a special event, the Corps Day Jeep Review which commemorates the arrival of the first cadets on campus in March 1843.

There are events open to the public throughout the day, including dress parades, awards presentations, special cadet performances, and athletic events.

Parade Schedules are subject to change, so please confirm their schedule here.

Attend the STEM Festival

March 7, 2020

Described as “a celebration of science, technology, engineering and math in the Lowcountry,” STEM Festival brings together children, teens, families, and local STEM professionals at Brittlebank Park.

There, they will enjoy hands-on activities, live performances, interactive demonstrations, and family-oriented STEM entertainment.

More than 80 exhibitors take part each year to put on this fun and totally FREE event. 

Click here to learn more about STEM Festival. 

Go to the Charleston Fun Park

Located a short drive from downtown Charleston, the Fun Park is an extremely popular destination with families with kids of all ages.

They have mini golf, a road course, batting cage, bumper boats, and a number of other fun games and attractions.

You pay per activity, so families don’t have to worry about paying a big up-front entrance fee. 

Learn more about to save on ride costs at the Fun Park with the Charleston Tour Pass. You’ll receive Receive 2 Premium Attraction Tickets per Person.

TIP: For more ideas of things to do with kids in Charleston, see our post Things to do in Charleston with Kids.

 

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Charleston in February

Things to Do in Charleston in February

This post covers the best things to do in Charleston in February, including nighttime, free, as well as family-friendly things to do and activities, update for 2020.

Be sure to check out our master post, Things to Do in Charleston, for even more ideas.

 

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TOP 10 EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO IN FEBRUARY

For more information on popular tourist attractions in Charleston, make sure to check out our posts: 

Some of the items within this post are included for free with the purchase of a tourist discount pass.

1. See a Concert

A great way to spend a February afternoon in Charleston is to go to a concert! There are several artists stopping in the city this month. 

 

 

Find all the concerts available in Charleston here.

2. Attend a Sports Event

See what sports events are happening this month. Below the video, we have listed the highlights.

 

 

Ice Hockey

South Carolina Stingrays

Basketball 

Citadel Bulldogs

Find all the games you can attend in Charleston here.

3. Enjoy the Theatre

This month there are several great musicals to see in Charleston. You can find all of them here.

Waitress is a touching, newer musical that took Broadway by storm a few years ago. It is about a waitress in a small town who is looking for a way out of her abusive marriage and processes her feelings through baking pies.

Waitress runs February 7 – 9, 2020.

 

 

The Color Purple was adapted from an award-winning, bestselling book as well as a Steven Spielberg movie.

The musical is full of jazz, ragtime, and blues numbers and tells the story of an African-American woman in the American South during the 20th century.

The Color Purple runs February 28 – 29, 2020.

And on Thursday, February 20, 2020, you can see the professional dancers of Dancing with the Stars on their live tour stop!

You can find all theatre performances here.

4. Save Money with a Tourist Discount Pass

Tourist discount passes work by bundling multiple tickets into one price, usually between 20%-50% the retail price.   

Read our post comparing the different Charleston tourist discount passes. 

 

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 Several bus tour companies, including hop-on-hop-off buses, also offer discounts and deals. 

TIP: Our guide to free things to do in Charleston lists a number of activities and events that won’t cost you a dime!

For more ideas for any time of year, be sure to read our master post on things to do in Charleston. 

5. See Live Improv

If you’re a fan of Saturday Night Live, you’ve probably heard of Second City improv shows.

After all, some of the best SNL cast members have come from Second City Chicago or Second City Los Angeles.

 

 

There will be a Second City show on Saturday, February 1, 2020.

Prepare to laugh the evening away with the touring company of The Second City!

6. Southeastern Wildlife Expo

Outdoor enthusiasts will find a number of events at this weekend exposition.

Explore your wild side with art exhibits, conversation education, sporting demonstrations, family events and more.

 

 

Find out which exhibitors are here for 2020 and plan your weekend by checking out their website. 

7. The Festival of Beers

Pour Taproom presents The Festival of Beers for everyone 21+. The event takes place from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm and features a number of great brewers and light bites to enjoy.

 

 

Get your tickets for the event here.

Be sure to explore King Street while you’re there, which features great shopping places in the historic district. 

8. Aiken Rhett House Museum 

The Aiken Rhett House Museum is one of the most popular sites in Charleston and is perfect to visit on a cooler day in February.

 

 

Sold to the Aiken Family in 1827, this incredibly well-preserved mansion showcases the “changes which occurred in architectural design during the first half of the 19th Century.”  

This property is not only a landmark in this town but it also gives visitors a unique view of the history of this area and this makes it more than worth a visit.

Read our post on the Aiken Rhett House Museum to learn more. 

9. Honor Black History Month 

Throughout the month of February Charleston honors its African-American history and culture with a variety of special events and attractions.

From learning about the area’s unique Gullah heritage to making sweetgrass baskets, there is no shortage of opportunities to participate in the month-long celebration of black history.

Some of the most popular events include:

 

 

Black History month is also a great time to visit one of the plantations near Charleston to learn more about the hardships that the African-American community had to face.

Boone Hall Plantation, for example, offers tours and live talks about the Gullah black history experience. 

10. Take a Sightseeing Tour

We offer three different types of name-your-own-price tours in Charleston. Check out our walking tour schedule here.

We also have self-guided tours and GPS-enabled audio tours of neighborhoods that you should visit on your trip to Charleston.

 

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There are a number of other ways to explore Charleston and we have advice on choosing which Charleston Bus Tours, Ghost Tours, and Harbor tours are best.

 

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Charleston in January

Things to Do in Charleston in January (2020)

This post covers the best things to do in Charleston in January and has been updated for 2020. It includes our top ten list, as well as evening, free, and family-friendly activities. 

 

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TOP 10 EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO IN CHARLESTON IN JANUARY

This section covers our top 10 things to do in Charleston in January.

For more information on popular tourist attractions in Charleston, make sure to check out our posts: 

Some of the items within this post are included for free with the purchase of a tourist discount pass.

Read more »

Free Public Transportation in Charleston: DASH Trolley

This post tells you everything you need to know about riding the DASH trolley, the free trolley through Charleston.

For all the things to see and do in Charleston, many of which are on the DASH line, check out our master post, Things to Do in Charleston for even more ideas.

For tips on the most popular activities in Charleston, check out our schedule of pay-what-you-like walking tours, our bus tours, and boat cruise pages.

The DASH trolley takes you close to a lot of places listed on our tourist discount pass, a great money-saving way to see the most of Charleston.

 

 

Read more »

The Best Charleston Bus Tours

This post reviews and compares the various bus tour options available to you in Charleston, including prices, discounts, as well as a free option.

 

 

OVERVIEW

There are (7) companies offering bus tours of Charleston and the surrounding area: 

Prices range from $20-$30 per person and each lasts approximately 90 minutes. Read more »

What to Do in Charleston in December

This post covers the best things to do in Charleston in December, including events, performances, free, family-friendly, as well as nighttime activities, all updated for 2019.

 

 

TOP 10 EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO IN CHARLESTON IN DECEMBER

This section covers our top ten things to do in Charleston in December.  Read more »

Free things to do in charleston

Free Things to Do in Charleston

This post covers the best free things to do in Charleston. Charleston, one of the oldest cities of America, is filled with history, fine architecture, and lots of southern charm. Much of it can be enjoyed for free!

Be sure to check out our master post, Things to Do in Charleston for even more ideas.

For tips on the most popular activities in Charleston, check out our schedule of pay-what-you-like walking tours, our bus tours, and boat cruise pages.

Several of the items below are already included for free with the purchase of a tourist discount pass.

 

 

Read more »

Charleston Carriage

Charleston Carriage Tours and Rides

This post compares and reviews all of the different Charleston carriage tour companies operating throughout this beautiful city.

 

 

OVERVIEW

There are several different tour companies offering daytime carriage tours of Charleston. 

In order to avoid overcrowding of certain areas, the City of Charleston randomly awards one of four routes to each carriage operating in the historic district of Charleston. 

This means that the route that each tour takes is predetermined and selected by City officials, rather than the individual companies. 

What distinguishes one company from another is the quality of their guides and the types of tours they offer. 

For example, in addition to their daytime tours, Palmetto Carriage Works and Old South Carriage Company also offer night tours of the historic district. 

Classic Carriage Works is the only company to also offer a Civil War Tour and Slavery to Freedom Tour.

For those planning on visiting other tourist attractions, consider buying your carriage tour ticket as part of a combo deal or discount. Carolina Polo & Carriage and Old South Carriage Company both offer special discounts on combo packages. 

Finally, Old South Carriage Company also runs a Haunted Carriage Tour for those hoping to learn more about the darker side of Charleston’s history.

 

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DAYTIME CARRIAGE TOURS

This section provides details about each of the Charleston carriage tours you can take during the day.

We include information about prices, availability, and other factors you may want to consider.

 

 

Palmetto Carriage Works

Palmetto Carriage Works is the oldest carriage tour company in Charleston. During their 60 minute tour, you will visit 25-30 blocks in Charleston’s historic downtown district. 
 

Palmetto Carriage Works

 
Tours run continuously 9 am – 5:00 pm, typically departing every 15 minutes. 

This company offers several different tour routes which are assigned by lottery upon arrival, so guests have the option of doing multiple tours to see more than just one area in the city. 

All tours are family-friendly and feature guides who are reputed for artfully blending humor with history. In addition to their day tours, this company also offers private tours and night tours.

You are also allowed to visit their stables which makes for a fun outing.

Ticket Details

NOTE: This company also offers its ride for free for holders of the Charleston Tourist Pass, an attraction and tour discount card.  

TIP: Get $2 off with promo code FreeByFoot.

Reviews for this company are extremely positive, with an average of 4 ½ out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor (read some of the reviews).

As guests can choose from multiple routes, many are return customers happy to explore another part of Charleston – which in itself speaks volumes about the quality of these tours.

 

Carolina Polo & Carriage

All of Carolina Polo & Carriage’s public tours begin in the Historic City Market. Like Palmetto Carriage Works, this company also offers several different tour routes covering a wide range of sites. 

Each outing is approximately 1 hour and fully narrated by licensed guides who bring guests through the quaint and charming streets of Charleston.

Tours depart approximately every 30 minutes daily between 9:30 am – 5 pm (March – Nov) and 9:30 am-4 pm (Nov – Feb). Additionally, they also offer private tours and special combo deals.

Ticket Details

Carolina Polo & Carriage also receives extremely positive reviews from most guests, averaging 4 ½ of 5 stars on TripAdvisor.

Several guests reported that their experience was fun, interesting, and relaxing, thanks in large part to the wonderful guides who work for this company.

 

Classic Carriage Works

Like their competitors, Classic Carriage Works also offers 1-hour narrated history tours of Charleston’s historic district.

Their guides are especially highly reputed as each averages more than 10 years of experience. 

 

 

Though Classic Carriage Works is one of the smallest carriage tour companies, they are the only one to offer both a Charleston History Tour as well as a Civil War Tour and a Slavery to Freedom Tour. 

Tours depart approximately every 30 minutes from 9 am – 5 pm. Additionally, they offer Adults-only and No Young Children (NYC) tours for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.

Private tours are also available.

Ticket Details

  • $28/Adults | $18/Children
  • Early Bird: $23/Adults | $13/Children
  • Availability: Daily from 9 am – 5 pm
  • Hours: Every 30 minutes
  • Purchase tickets or learn more.

As with most other companies, Classic Carriage Works has received an overall rating of about 4 ½ out of 5 stars (read reviews here).

Many guests describe this carriage tour as amazing, entertaining and a must-do activity, suggesting that their guides are very friendly and informative.

 

Old South Carriage Company

Perhaps the most well known of all the carriage tour companies, Old South Carriage Company offers a Historic Residential Tour which reveals 300 years of Charleston’s history in just 1 hour. 

Guests travel through 2 ½ miles and 30 blocks of historic Charleston learning about the city’s most significant sites.  

This company also offers night tours and combo deals.

Ticket Details

Old South Carriage Company also boasts very positive reviews for their tours, averaging 4 ½ of 5 stars (read reviews here).

Guests describe their experience as fun and very informative. History lovers seem especially impressed with the quality of their guides.

 

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NIGHT CARRIAGE TOURS

The following section covers each of the carriage tours you can take after dark in Charleston.

We provide details about pricing, tour duration, and other information you might want to know.

Palmetto Carriage Works 

In addition to their daytime tours, Palmetto Carriage Works offers an Evening Tour of the Commercial District, which departs every day at 5:30 pm, 5:45 pm, and 6 pm. 

These tours typically sell out, so it’s best to book a spot well in advance. Visit many historic sites in the old Walled City, including the Old Exchange Building, Four Corners of Law, & the Waterfront Park on the Cooper River. 

Unlike their daytime tour, the evening tour is only 35 minutes long.

Ticket Details

  • $18/Adults | $14/Children
  • Availability: Every Evening
  • Hours: 5:30 pm, 5:45 pm, 6 pm
  • Purchase tickets or learn more.
  • TIP: Get $2 off with promo code FreeByFoot.

Old South Carriage Company

The Old South Carriage Company also runs 40-minute tours through the Walled City at the end of the day. Evening tours start from 5:30 pm and are subject to availability. 

 

 

Like Palmetto Carriage Works’s Evening Tour of the Commercial District, this company’s night tours tend to sell out in advance so be sure to book ahead.

They also offer a Haunted Charleston Tour which runs in the evenings and is featured in the ghost tours section.

Ticket Details

  • $26/Adults | $15/Children
  • Kids 3 and under are free.
  • Availability: Every evening
  • Hours: 3:30 pm, 4:30 pm, 5:30 pm, 6:30 pm
  • Purchase tickets or learn more.

They also offer a Haunted Charleston Tour which runs in the evenings and is featured in the ghost tours section. Alternatively, you can also take a private evening trip which we will cover in our private tours section.

 

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HAUNTED CARRIAGE TOURS

There are many ghost tours running in Charleston. However, only one carriage company offers a Haunted Carriage Tour of the city, which is Old South Carriage Company. 

Be sure to read our post comparing the various ghost tours in Charleston for alternatives.

Old South Carriage Company

Old South Carriage Company’s ghost tour shares the darker history of Charleston. Tours last approximately 40 minutes and are available seasonally. 

All guides are licensed and eager to regale guests with eerie tales as they take you by haunted alleys, graveyards, churches, hotels, and even a dungeon!

Ticket Details

Like their regular tours, the Haunted Carriage Tour offered by Old South Carriage Company also comes highly rated, averaging 4 ½ of 5 stars on TripAdvisor (read reviews here).

Guests describe their experience as fun and spooky – and yes, this is a great option for families!

 

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PRIVATE CARRIAGE TOURS

All of the companies listed above also offer private carriage tours around Charleston.

Prices vary depending on tour length and whether you need a custom pickup location, but they typically start at about $150-$200. 

 

 

Private tours are subject to guide availability and must adhere to the regulations imposed by the City of Charleston. We cover some of the better private outings available in this section.

Contact each individual company to learn more or we could create a package for you that would include our pay-what-you-wish tours.

Old South Carriage Company

In addition to their public outings, this company also offers private carriage tours during both day and night. They charge a flat fee per group of up to 4 people.

Since the tour is private, you can ask any questions you want without worrying about being interrupted by another guest. 

Daytime Private Carriage Tour

Evening Private Carriage Tour

As we have mentioned in other sections, this company currently enjoys an overall rating of about 4 ½ out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor.

Most of the customers who have taken their private tours indicate that they are very informative and entertaining.

Carolina Polo & Carriage

Like their competitors, this company offers private carriage tours around Charleston and their rates are very similar. Carolina Polo & Carriage charges a flat price for groups of up to 4 people.

 

Carolina Polo & Carriage

 

With a private tour guide, you’ll receive a more personalized experience and the opportunity to ask more questions about the city as you head from one historic site to the next.

Daytime Private Carriage Tour

Reviews for this private tour are excellent, as this company has received a rating of 5 out of 5 stars (read reviews here).

Customers say the trip was well worth the price and their tour guides were both knowledgeable and entertaining.

 

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DEALS AND DISCOUNTS

In this section, we’ll cover all of the discounts you can currently enjoy on Charleston carriage tours.

Details include tourist passes, combo tickets and other opportunities to save money.

Tourist Attraction Discount Passes

If you’re planning to enjoy more than a few attractions or tours while visiting Charleston, you may want to think about getting a tourist pass to save some money off general admission prices.

The main service offered in this city is an all-inclusive pass, which means it provides admission to dozens of popular activities for a specific amount of time (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days).

 

 

Customers who use this pass for as many attractions as possible will save the most money, but even the average traveler should be able to save between 20% – 50% off general admission prices.

The only Charleston carriage tour currently offered with a tourist pass is provided by Palmetto Carriage Works, a company that routinely receives excellent ratings.

If you’re wondering what else you can use this pass for, here are a few of the activities included:

  • Charleston Speedboat Adventures | $79
  • Palmetto Carriage Works Tours | $28
  • Haunted Charleston Walking Tours | $30
  • Nathaniel Russell House Museum | $12
  • Aiken Rhett House Museum | $12
  • Charleston Tea Plantation | $12
  • Gray Line City Bus Tour | $24
  • Charleston Harbor Tour | $29
  • Boone Hall Plantation | $24
  • McLeod Plantation | $15
  • Fort Sumter Tour | $24

Anyone planning to enjoy at least 3-4 of these attractions should definitely consider using this service.

You can learn more about this service by reading our post about Charleston tourist passes or go directly to their website.

Combo Packages

Several different cruise companies offer combo packages featuring other popular tourist attractions. 

If you’re interested in both a carriage tour of historic Charleston as well as a cruise around Charleston Harbor, consider buying the two as a package to save money and avoid the extra hassle.

Palmetto Carriage Works

This company offers 2 different combo packages. 

In addition to their standard carriage tour of Charleston, you can also take a boat tour of Charleston Harbor. 

They also have a triple combo package that includes a carriage tour, a cruise on the harbor and a trip to Boone Hall Plantation. 

Carolina Polo & Carriage

This company has partnered with Walks of Charleston and Charleston Culinary Tours to offer a combo deal that saves guests $5 on any tour with either company when you book any tour with Carolina Polo & Carriage.

Charleston Culinary Tours offers 8 unique food tours around the city as well as a private tour you can choose from, while Walks of Charleston‘s popular History Walking Tour is approximately 2 hours and begins from just outside City Hall. 

Sites featured during the walking tour include St Michael’s Church, the French Quarter, St Philip’s Church, Heyward Washington House, and the famous Battery. 

Guests can choose to take both tours on the same day or split them into 2 different days.

Old South Carriage Company

Old South Carriage Company offers 3 different combo packages. The first combines their carriage trip with a tour of Charleston Harbor from SpiritLine Cruise, entertaining guests on both land and sea. 

The second package deal also takes guests on the water as it combines a ticket to visit Fort Sumter with their standard carriage tour. You are advised to first schedule your carriage tour, then arrange your trip to Fort Sumter.

The final combo deal offered by this company includes both their carriage tour and a walking tour of Charleston. This is the most affordable package. 

  • Carriage Tour + SpiritLine Harbor Cruise: $49/Adults | $32/Children
  • Carriage Tour + Fort Sumter: $49/Adults | $30/Children
  • Carriage Tour + Walking Tour: $45/Adults | $28/Children
  • Learn more about this combo package.

Discount Sites

Some Charleston carriage tour companies offer deals on their services through websites such as Groupon and LivingSocial.

In addition to the discounts they provide, these sites also frequently offer coupon codes that you can use to save an extra 10% – 20% off local activities such as a carriage tour.

If you’re planning to use one of these discount sites, make sure to check both the top and bottom of the page for coupons before purchasing any tickets.

 

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Things to Do in Charleston

Things to Do in Charleston SC

This post covers things to do in Charleston, with tips on free, nighttime as well as family-friendly activities. We also include links to our posts on things to do by month or season. 

 

 

TOP 10 EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO

Here is our top 10 list of things to do in the city of Charleston, including tours, family-friendly activities, attractions, and free things to do.

Take a look at our other popular Charleston posts here:

1) Visit Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter only has one tour company that is allowed to offer guided tours on this exciting island.

It takes a 30-minute journey on the water to get there. And once you arrive, you’ll get an intro by a National Park Ranger before being able to look around.

 

 

We have a post that covers how to get to Fort Sumter.

And check out our post comparing all Charleston Harbor tours for more information. 

2) See a Concert

Charleston regularly brings in nationally and internationally-touring musical acts and has a great local music scene.

No matter what time of year you visit, if you’re a fan of live music there will be plenty of events to choose from.

 

 

If you’re interested in going to a concert, make sure to check and see what’s on at the following venues:

Find all the concerts in the city here. 

3) Attend the Theater

From the historic Dock Street Theatre to the North Charleston Performing Arts Center, there are several venues in the city that consistently produce great plays, musicals, and comedy shows. 

 

 

Find all the theatrical events in Charleston here. 

4) Go on a Sightseeing Tour

A great way to see more of Charleston is to take a sightseeing tour.

Of course, we recommend taking a pay-what-you-wish walking tour of the city with us or let one of our guides direct you on a GPS-led audio tour. 

 

 

Other tours that you should consider:

There are also plenty of plantation tours to take that will bring you to the popular Magnolia, Boone, and Middleton Plantations. 

5) Visit the Battery 

The Battery is a coastal peninsula in Charleston that gets its name from a civil-war-era defense artillery battery that was placed there.

Now, the area is full of impressive homes and the public White Point Garden Park.

 

 

The beautiful homes in this area are a must-see. Not only are the houses gorgeous, but the harbor view is breathtaking. 

Read our post on Rainbow Row to learn more about beautiful historic houses.

Take a look at the free things to do section for more budget-friendly outing ideas.

6) Take a Ghost Tour

Considered one of the most haunted cities in the United States, Charleston is a great place to take a ghost tour!

Choose from a range of haunted tours, including ghost carriage tours, the dark side of history tours, pirate ghost tours, and more traditional ghost walking tours. 

 

 

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check with each company beforehand to see if the tour is family-friendly. 

Read our post comparing the best ghost tours in Charleston to learn more.

And if you’re looking for more fun things to do after dark, check out our nighttime activities section.

7) Take a Boat Cruise on the Charleston Harbor

Charleston is right on the coast and home to some great waterside attractions, including boat tours, dinner cruises, and sightseeing outings from Charleston Harbor. 

 

 

You can get an interesting perspective of the city from the water with daily Charleston Harbor tours that include live commentary from your captain.

If you like to relax on the water with a nice meal, why not take a dinner cruise? 

8) Enjoy a Carriage Ride

The historic carriage tours of Charleston are a favorite amongst visitors! If you’re in the city during the summer, you can beat the heat and opt to take a tour at sunset or just after dark.

Evening tours prove to be popular with those hoping to explore the city as the sun is setting or with those who want to see the city lights lit up.

 

 

There are currently two different companies offering nighttime carriage rides. Both are 30 to 35-minute tours and cost $15-$16 per adult.  

Read our post comparing the best carriage tours in Charleston to learn more. 

9) Restaurants and Food Tours

No visit to the Southern United States is complete without enjoying some delicious southern cuisine, which is why we recommend taking any one of Charleston’s popular food tours.

These food tours will introduce you to classic dishes including grits, collard greens, various fried treats, and sweet tea.

 

 

If you’d like to make your own food tasting experience in the city, make sure to read our post about the best Lowcountry Foods to try in Charleston. 

You also don’t want to miss these popular restaurants:  

10) Save Money with a Charleston Tour Pass

One of the best ways to save money while sightseeing is to purchase a tourist attraction discount pass. These passes work by bundling admission tickets and discounts so that you pay less when you pay upfront. 

 

 

There are two types of passes, and which one you choose should depend on the attractions you want to see. One focuses on house museums, another on popular tours, plantations, and restaurants. 

Included Attractions on Various Passes Include: 

  • Charleston Tea Plantation
  • Charleston Harbor Boat Tour
  • Nathaniel Russel House Museum
  • Deep Water Vineyard Free Tasting
  • Lewis Barbeque Voucher
  • Free Glazed Gourmet Doughnut
  • Aiken-Rhett House Museum

Check out our full comparison post to see which pass will save you the most money. 

 

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NIGHTTIME ACTIVITIES

Though it might not be known for its nightlife, Charleston is a city that really comes to life after dark! From ghost tours and pub crawls to theatre shows and comedy performances, there is a wide range of things to do at night.

 


Below are a few of our favorite nighttime activities.

Comedy Night

Looking for a laugh during your visit? There are several different comedy club venues in Charleston that feature comedians from all over the country.

Some of the most popular include The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre and Theatre 99 — the second of which exclusively features improv and costs just $5 on Wednesday nights, $12 on Friday nights and $12 – $14 on Saturday nights.

The Dock Street Theater

Catch a show at this beautiful theater. This building was beautifully restored in the 1930s as a result of the new W.P.A. efforts introduced to get the nation back on its feet after the market crash of the Great Depression.

The original theater opened in 1736 and the building was subsequently turned into a hotel, so in the 1930s a colonial-style theater was recreated in the space. This is the home theater of the Charleston Stage Company.

If you don’t have tickets to see a show, don’t worry! The Dock Street is included on a few walking tours, so even if you don’t catch a show you’ll still steal a sneak peek!

The Ravenel Bridge (Cooper River Bridge)

Completed in 2005, the Cooper River Bridge was the longest cable-stay bridge in North America at the time. The bridge boasts a walking and biking path whose views (and height) will leave you breathless. 

 


This photo of Ravenel Bridge is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

While the bridge and its surrounding trails are great for a run or bike ride during the day, we suggest visiting at night as the bridge and cables are beautiful while lit up. 

Visit Ravenel Bridge on a city bus tour or boat tour of Charleston Harbor.

Take a Pub Crawl

If you’re looking for a bit of adult fun, why not opt for a pub crawl of Charleston! For a more traditional pub crawl experience, join Bulldog Tours on their Upper King Street Pub Tour which shares the history of prohibition, pirates, and pubs in Charleston.

Alternatively, you can go on a Mixology Tour with Charleston Culinary Tours and visit 3 different bars that are highly regarded for their exquisite cocktails. 

Click here to read a comparison of the pubs crawls offered by Bulldog Tours and Charleston Culinary Tours. 

King Street Shopping District 

King Street is a bustling retail corridor with many boutiques for those looking to do a bit of shopping during their visit. However, it also holds great historical significance: “At more than 300 years old, King Street is the second most historically and architecturally significant street in downtown Charleston.”

 


This photo of 235 King Street at Sunset is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

Once the shops close, you can check out one of the many art galleries, bars, or restaurants — all of which promise to keep you occupied late into the night!

Charleston City Night Market

Every Friday and Saturday evening between April – December there the Night Market runs at the Charleston City Market. Open from 6:30 – 10:30 pm, it is completely free and open to the public. The Night Market showcases more than 100 talented artists and craftspeople, and features live music and entertainment.

Take a Dinner Cruise

Though Charleston Harbor is beautiful at all hours, nighttime is one of the best times to relax on the water and enjoy the city lights. From the harbor, you can see Fort Sumter and Ravenel Bridge lit up, in addition to several other sights from afar. 

SpiritLine Cruises offer a nightly, 2.5-hour dinner cruise with 3 – 4 courses and special amenities. These are extremely popular experiences, so be sure to book in advance. 

 

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FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

Charleston is a city that truly has something for everyone! Below we list some of our favorite things to do with kids, though most (if not all) of these suggestions are equally enjoyed by adults. 

 

 

Find more inspiration for things to do with your family in Charleston here.

Charleston Riverdogs Baseball

Take the whole family out to the ballgame for a Charleston Riverdogs minor league baseball game. Sports fans can enjoy the fun atmosphere, hotdogs, and 7th inning stretch games with volunteers from the crowd.

The regular season runs from late March to early October, which gives you plenty of time to find tickets to a game! If they make it to the playoffs, games could be happening into early November. 

Charleston Battery Soccer

Soccer fans will be happy to learn Charleston has a professional soccer team named Charleston Battery. It was founded in 1993, which makes it one of the oldest professional soccer clubs in the country. This means their fanbase is loyal and the atmosphere at the games is fun and exciting! 

The regular season runs from early March through mid-October. 

South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is a very popular aquatic center located in the heart of downtown Charleston. Open 9:00 am – 4:00 pm daily, the aquarium features marine animals traditionally found in the coastal waters of South Carolina and beyond. Two of their most popular creatures are a rare albino alligator and a bald eagle named Liberty.

 

 

Admission is $29.95 for adults and $22.95 for children. 

Read our post on the aquarium for more information.

Charleston Museum 

Described in many reviews as a ‘must-see’, the Charleston Museum is a small but powerful natural history museum featuring exhibits that highlight the city’s long and complex history. Children are encouraged to participate in the museum’s scavenger hunt, which includes questions about each of the permanent exhibits. Visit the Charleston Museum website to learn more. 

Charleston Museum is included in the Heritage Passport.

Frankie’s Fun Park 

Located a short drive from downtown Charleston, Frankie’s Fun Park is an extremely popular destination with families with kids of all ages. They have mini golf, a road course, batting cage, bumper boats, and a number of other fun games and attractions. You pay per activity, so families don’t have to worry about paying a big up-front entrance fee. 

Learn more about Frankie’s Fun Park on their website. 

Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry

The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to “spark imagination and stimulate curiosity through the power of play.” The museum features several different interactive spaces, such as the art room, idea factory, medieval creativity castle, and kids garden. It welcomes kids of all ages, though the museum especially caters to those under the age of 10. 

 


This photo of Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

Ticket Prices: 

  • Children Under 12 Months: FREE
  • SC Residents – Children & Adults: $10.00
  • Non-SC Residents – Children & Adults: $12.00

Cypress Gardens 

This is another historic property to visit. The popular attractions here for families are the butterfly house, hiking trails and boat rides through the swamp during which you can search for wildlife like alligators, birds, and turtles. Check out their website to learn more about Cypress Gardens. 

Ticket Prices: 

  • Adult: $10.00
  • Senior: (age 65+) $9.00
  • Children: (ages 6-12) $5.00
  • Children: (ages 5 and under) Free*

Sample Free Pralines 

During your visit to downtown Charleston, be sure to pop into one of the many praline shops to try out a few of their free samples! Both children and adults love to indulge in this special Southern treat. You’re not expected or required to purchase any pralines after taking a sample, but we must warn you that it’s difficult to resist! 

USS Yorktown and Patriots Point

This is a must-see for any war history buffs, wannabe shipmates, airplane fanatics, and, of course, kids!  The Yorktown is deceivingly big and is truly a small city, filled with maze-like pathways, a dentist’s office, jail, and more! Not only is the “town” interesting, but there are all different kinds of airplanes and even a flight simulator for you to try.

 


This photo of Charleston is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

In addition, the view from the deck of downtown Charleston will allow you to see why we’re known as the Holy City; check out all of the church steeples!

 

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FREE THINGS TO DO

You don’t need to break the bank to have fun and explore Charleston.

 

 

We have a list of parks and markets to explore as well as churches, homes, and other architecture to admire here.

Waterfront Park and the Pineapple Fountain

This is a beautiful park, voted one of the Top 25 public parks in the U.S. by Trip Advisor, and the fountain is a pretty place to cool down (the fountains are wading fountains).

The park is conveniently located just a few blocks from the market and some of our tours end here. The park sits at the mouth of the Cooper River and offers a terrific setting for a picnic with a view!

The entire inner harbor is laid out before you. There is a sunny side, but if it’s too bright for you just go to the benches under the trees on the other side of the park – the view won’t be obstructed and the foliage will block the rays.

Admire the Houses of Worship

The houses of worship, from KKBE Synagogue to St. Michael’s Episcopal and the Unitarian Church, will stop you in your tracks; their history and beauty are unmatched in our country. In one of the oldest cities in the country, you’ll find churches constructed with care that is comparable to European churches.

Many of the churches and synagogues here will leave you in awe – organs, carved mahogany, Tiffany windows… Come and see it for yourself!

Angel Oak in John’s Island

The oldest living thing east of the Mississippi River is a sight to see! You won’t believe your eyes. Photos do not do it justice.

 


This photo of Angel Oak is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

It’s just a short drive from downtown Charleston and is definitely worth the trip. The attraction just asks for a donation to help secure the health of the tree. No one is quite sure how old it is – anywhere between 400 – 1000 years old!

The tree is a sight right out of a storybook and everyone from any age will be amazed.

Charleston City Market

The City Market is a must-do for any visitor to Charleston. Established in the 1790s, the City Market was initially a beef and produce market for the local people of Charleston. As it gained in popularity, the market became a place for people to socialize and trade other goods. Today it features a wide range of merchandise, including traditional Gullah sweetgrass baskets and jewelry.

Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row is one of the most iconic attractions in Charleston. The series of Georgian row houses were restored in the 1930s, during which time they were painted with the iconic pastel colors. This tradition began when one of the homeowners of the time decided to restore her property to back to the colonial Caribbean color scheme and soon others follow suit.

 


This photo of Historic Charleston is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

Today the homes are still privately owned, and though they are not regularly open to the public, some do open their doors during annual Festival of Houses and Gardens during the month of March.

Discover Picturesque Alleys

Go on an adventure and you’ll find yourself meandering down quiet, hidden alleys. The city is safe and always camera ready! What are you waiting for?

There are several small streets and alleys that are public and ready for you to discover. They are also a great place for you to see the beautiful foliage and blooming plants in Charleston. The sub-tropic climate, combined with areas that are less traveled, means that these are the areas where Mother Nature really shows off. Have fun!

 

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DAY TRIPS FROM CHARLESTON

There are some interesting places to see and enjoy outside of the city that make great day trips. Whether you’re willing to travel for 15 minutes or two hours, there are fun day trip options for you!

Beaches

Folly Beach is a fantastic family-friendly beach located just a 20-minute drive from downtown Charleston on Folly Island. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach, or choose from one of the many seaside restaurants or bars for a meal. Though summer is the best time of year to relax on Folly Beach, smaller crowds, and slightly cooler weather make the spring and fall equally enjoyable. Alternatively, if you’re in Charleston during the month of January, check out the annual Bill Murray Look-Alike Polar Plunge where participants are encouraged to ‘freeze their Bill’s off!” 

 

 

Located just a 15-minute drive from the heart of the Historic District of Charleston, Isle of Palms is also a great place for families to visit! The beach at the Isle of Palms is probably the most kid-friendly beach around Charleston thanks to the ample space, safe waters, and clean environment. 

There are several other beaches that are within 20 to 45 minutes’ drive from the center of Charleston. This includes the private beach of Seabrook Island, that is known for its quiet, idyllic atmosphere and Kiawah Island, known for its recreational sports, live music, and entertainment. 

Plantations

There are several big plantations near Charleston — each location is very family-friendly, despite the dark history surrounding them. Drayton Hall, Magnolia Plantation, and Middleton Plantation are just west of the city, and Boone Hall is over in Mount Pleasant.  

 

 

The plantations west of the Ashley River were mainly rice plantations, whereas Boone Hall and many of the plantations east of the Cooper were known for producing bricks. 

You can learn about each plantation’s black history and culture, as well as the effects of the Civil War on the plantation owners and their homes. 

Kids will love exploring the labyrinth of gardens at each plantation. Magnolia even has a petting zoo! And, if you’re here at the right time, you can pick your own fruit at veggies at Boone Hall.  

Sure you need a car, but you cannot go to the South and miss going to a plantation! The trip is worth it and we hope you have fun!

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia, and close enough to Charleston to allow for fun day trips. It takes just two hours to drive between the cities. Savannah’s Historic District is full of antebellum, colonial, and Victorian architecture and beautiful estates. 

 

 

You’ll also learn about the history of the city from colonial times, including the slave trade and cotton industry details.

Learn more about Savannah walking tours here. 

 

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THINGS TO DO IN CHARLESTON BY MONTH AND SEASON

We have also created guides based on the time of year.  Click on the links below for the corresponding time that you plan on being in Charleston.  These also include monthly weather expectations to help you plan how to dress.

 

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Christmas in Charleston

10+ Things to Do for Christmas in Charleston

This post covers the top things to do on Christmas in Charleston (updated for 2019), including nighttime activities, free things to do, and family-friendly options. 

Be sure to read our master post on things to do in Charleston for even more ideas.

 

 

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN CHARLESTON AT CHRISTMAS 

This section features our top 10 activities to enjoy in Charleston during Christmas. 

For more information on popular tourist attractions in Charleston, make sure to check out our posts: 

Some of the items within this post are included for free with the purchase of a tourist discount pass.

 

 

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