Supporting our thousands of guests on what to do in Charleston is a key aspect of being a tour guide. My tour is half history of Charleston and half recommendations on how to plan the rest of your trip.
I've led thousands of tours in Charleston as a professional tour guide. My colleague Canden, who is a tour guide in Washington, DC, has visited Charleston over 30 times. Between the two of us, we offer two perspectives of the best things to do in the city and I want to share them with you.
There are a few things you might want to consider before heading out to enjoy the best things to do in Charleston. Namely, how long should you spend in Charleston?
I've found on average that most of the visitors I've met spend at least 3 days in Charleston. Canden has come on day trips (do not recommend but sometimes it is all you have!) and I'll share a sample itinerary on that below.
You'll need at least half a day to take a plantation tour; another half day to take a food tour, and another half day for a harbor cruise with tour of Fort Sumter. Our walking tours are only 2 hours so you can fit that in on any day! Carriage rides are only an hour.
There are so many great museums where on average guests spend 1-2 hours.
Things to Know Before Planning a Trip to Charleston
Before planning your trip to Charleston, here are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your visit:
- Weather: Charleston experiences a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. I usually visit in winter (to avoid the harsh cold of DC!) for a bit of warmer days.
- Best Time to Visit: The spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to visit. Keep in mind that summers can be hot and humid, while winters are mild but may have occasional chilly periods.
- Parking: Downtown Charleston can be challenging for parking, with limited on-street parking available. Consider using public transportation or utilizing parking garages and lots. As a visitor to Charleston, I usually take Lyft to get around. Since the downtown historic core is rather small, its always an inexpensive trip.
- Reservations: Popular restaurants and attractions in Charleston can get crowded, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons. It's advisable to make reservations for dining and book tickets in advance to secure your spot. Charleston is a foodie paradise and some of its most popular restaurants will not be accommodate you without reservations.
TOUR GUIDES TIPS FOR VISITING CHARLESTON
I've made a list of some of the popular things to do in Charleston with some of my tips as a local and Canden's tips as a frequent visitor.
These are good suggestions for first time visitors but I'll add some if you've been to Charleston before or you have specific interests.
Would it be biased to suggest our walking tour first? I think not. We offer three types of small group guided walking tours; plus more self guided audio tours.
Visit Fort Sumter
No visit to Charleston would be complete without a trip to Fort Sumter. Steeped in history, this iconic landmark holds immense significance as the site where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired.
Fort Sumter only has one tour company that is allowed to offer guided tours on this exciting island. It takes a 30-minute journey by ferry to get there. And once you arrive, you’ll get an intro from a National Park Ranger before being able to look around.
If you take the first tour of the day, you can take part in the flag-raising ceremony at Fort Sumter.
Here are a few reasons why you should include Fort Sumter in your itinerary:
- Historical Significance: This national historic landmark is the site of the first shot fired during the American Civil War, so it's an absolute must-visit for those interested in Civil War history.
- Educational Experience: A visit to Fort Sumter offers a unique opportunity to learn about the American Civil War and its impact on the nation. Engage with knowledgeable guides and exhibits that provide insights into the causes and consequences of this historic conflict.
- Scenic Boat Ride: Reach Fort Sumter by embarking on a scenic boat ride across Charleston Harbor. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city's skyline and the surrounding waters as you approach the fort, adding to the overall experience.
- Panoramic Views: Once at Fort Sumter, take in the panoramic views of the harbor and the city. Capture memorable photos of the historic fort and its surroundings while relishing the coastal beauty that Charleston has to offer.
You can technically see Fort Sumter from the Battery but not in a way to really experience, so we suggest actually visiting the island. We have a post that covers how to get to Fort Sumter.
See the unique architecture of Charleston
From the art deco and modern facades you can find on King Street and by Marion Square (north of historic city center) ro the stunning historic homes near the Battery, Charleston is a paradise for architecture lovers.
One of the best ways to experience the unique architecture of Charleston is by taking a stroll through the historic district.
The streets of downtown Charleston are lined with charming and iconic buildings, showcasing a blend of architectural styles, including Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival. Wander along the picturesque streets, such as Rainbow Row and Tradd Street, to admire the vibrant pastel-colored townhouses and elegant mansions that transport you back in time.
Additionally, a visit to the Battery and White Point Garden offers stunning views of the city's iconic antebellum homes and the picturesque waterfront.
One of my absolute favorite ways to experience architecture in Charleston is to tour the Nathanial Russell House.
This meticulously restored neoclassical townhouse offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Charleston's elite during the early 19th century. Step through the front door and be transported back in time as you explore the opulent interiors adorned with exquisite plasterwork, elegant furnishings, and a stunning elliptical staircase. Gain insights into the craftsmanship and architectural mastery of the period while admiring the beautiful gardens that surround the house.
There are quite a few historic house museums that combine Charleston history and architecture that I suggest visiting:
- Aiken-Rhett House Museum: Explore this preserved antebellum townhouse, offering a glimpse into the lives of a wealthy Charleston family and their enslaved workers.
- Heyward-Washington House: Step into the 18th-century world of Thomas Heyward Jr., one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and learn about Charleston's colonial history.
- Joseph Manigault House: Discover the elegant interiors of this Federal-style townhouse and learn about the influential Manigault family, who played a significant role in Charleston's history.
- Edmondston-Alston House: Experience the grandeur of this Greek Revival mansion and take in panoramic views of Charleston Harbor from its iconic piazza.
- Williams (Calhoun) Mansion: Marvel at the grand scale and intricate details of this opulent Victorian-era mansion, filled with an extensive collection of art, antiques, and period furnishings.
Another must-do for architectural lovers in Charleston is to explore the iron work of Phillips Simmons.
Phillip Simmons was a renowned blacksmith and artisan who dedicated his life to preserving the tradition of ironwork in Charleston. Born in 1912, Simmons began his apprenticeship at the age of 13 and spent over 77 years honing his craft. He became known for his intricate and distinctive ironwork designs, which can be seen throughout the city, including gates, balconies, and decorative pieces.
Simmons' work not only showcases his exceptional skill but also represents an important part of Charleston's cultural heritage. His craftsmanship serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of African American artisans and their contributions to the city's architectural beauty.
Take a Guided Tour on Land, Boat or by Carriage
- Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Explore the charming streets of Charleston with a knowledgeable guide who will take you on a journey through the city's storied past. Learn about the iconic landmarks, hidden alleys, and fascinating anecdotes that give Charleston its distinctive character.
We offer an almost daily Historic Charleston walking tour.
- Gullah Heritage Tour: Delve into the unique Gullah culture, an important part of Charleston's heritage. This tour provides insights into the traditions, language, and contributions of the Gullah people, descendants of African slaves who have preserved their vibrant culture in the Lowcountry.
- Ghost Tour of Charleston: Charleston is one of the most haunted cities. 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.
- Horse Drawn Carriage Tours: These are a classic way to get a quick and broad overview of the city. Read my post comparing the best carriage tours in Charleston to learn more and the most important thing to know before deciding on a carriage tour.
- Charleston Harbor Boat Tour: Embark on a scenic boat tour of Charleston Harbor and enjoy breathtaking views of the city's skyline, historic forts, and iconic landmarks like the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Learn about the harbor's role in Charleston's history as you cruise along the waterways.
- Culinary Tour of Charleston: Indulge in the culinary delights of Charleston on a guided food tour. Sample mouthwatering Lowcountry cuisine, including fresh seafood, Gullah-inspired dishes, and traditional Southern fare, while learning about the city's culinary traditions and vibrant food scene.
Savor some Lowcountry Cuisine
No visit to the Southern United States is complete without enjoying some delicious southern cuisine. And this 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; but here is a quick list of things to try:
- Gullah-Geechee Cuisine: classic dishes like shrimp and grits, Hoppin' John, and she-crab soup, each bursting with a delightful blend of local ingredients, spices, and soulful flavors.
- Benne Wafer and Boiled Peanuts: I suggest getting these simple snacks at the Charleston Market.
- Lowcountry BBQ: My current go to is Poogan's Smokehouse, run by the same great folks who run the Charleston staple restaurant Poogan's Porch.
- Huguenot Torte: This is a classic Charleston dessert that you can almost never find, but they do have one at Fleet's Landing that is delicious!
- Fresh Seafood: Don't tell anyone I said this, but I do not like oysters but I have been assured you must try them in Charleston if you're here. Give me a Low Country Crab Boil any day though!
- Planter's Punch: many places will tell you that you have to have this summer time cocktail in Charleston as it was invented right here at the Planter's Inn (the original one, not the current hotel). The drink was not invented here but we do make a mean cocktail.
The number of restaurants in Charleston increases every year but there a few you must try if you're a foodie.
- Husk: Known for its focus on Southern ingredients and traditional techniques, Husk offers a menu that celebrates the region's rich culinary heritage. From elevated classics like shrimp and grits to innovative dishes featuring locally sourced produce, Husk provides a true taste of Charleston.
- FIG: With its emphasis on seasonal and locally inspired dishes, FIG (Food Is Good) has become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts. The menu showcases the best of Lowcountry cuisine with a modern twist, featuring fresh seafood, farm-fresh vegetables, and inventive flavor combinations.
- The Ordinary: For seafood lovers, The Ordinary is a must-visit. Located in a beautifully restored historic bank building, this seafood-centric restaurant offers an impressive selection of oysters, shellfish towers, and innovative seafood dishes that highlight the coastal flavors of Charleston.
- Xiao Bao Biscuit: If you're in the mood for something different, Xiao Bao Biscuit is a hidden gem serving up Asian-inspired cuisine with a Southern twist. Their menu features bold and flavorful dishes like Korean fried chicken, Mapo tofu, and Thai basil stir-fry, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Hominy Grill: A beloved institution in Charleston, Hominy Grill is known for its comfort food and Southern hospitality. Their menu features iconic dishes like shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and biscuits, all made with love and crafted to perfection.
- Poogan's Porch: Established in 1976, Poogan's Porch is housed in a charming Victorian townhouse and exudes Southern charm. Known for its elevated Lowcountry cuisine and warm hospitality, this restaurant has been a beloved fixture in Charleston for decades. It is a regular stop on ghost tours, as well.
Enjoy a Local Sport Event
One of my favorite things to do with a visit new towns with my kids is to go to a minor league game.
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!
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.
Visit a Museum
I've already mentioned the historic house museums and while Charleston has that homey vibe; there are also great museums.
- 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. They also have sea turtles, sharks, a touch tank, and much more. 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.
- 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.
- Visit the Gibbes Museum of Art
Believe it or not, this is the only art museum in Charleston, and it currently houses over 10,000 pieces of art from several different eras.
One of their more noteworthy exhibits is a collection of miniatures, which are small portraits from early colonial times.
- Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston
The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston is a non-collecting contemporary art museum with a focus on emerging, mid-career, and overlooked artists.
They strive to create meaningful interactions between adventurous artists and diverse communities within a context that emphasizes the historical, social, and cultural importance of the art of our time.
Admission to the galleries and most programs is free.
- Old Slave Mart Museum
In addition to being an important American landmark, this museum also houses several exhibitions and artifacts from the time period in which the building was used.
Housed in a building that once served as an auction gallery for enslaved individuals, this museum offers a glimpse into the painful era of the transatlantic slave trade. Through thoughtfully curated exhibits, visitors can learn about the experiences of enslaved Africans, the hardships they endured, and the resilience they displayed.
- Discover Charles Towne Landing
Whether you're a history buff or you want to teach your kids about the history of this country, this notable landmark is a must visit.
Charles Towne Landing is the site of the first settlement of the Carolina colony in the late 1600s. As you might have surmised, the settlement later became known as Charleston!
The Visitors Center has an interactive museum, and there is also a self-guided history trail that you can hike as well. This is also the site of the Adventure, a replica of a 17th century ship.
- International African American Museum
Discover exhibits that delve into the struggles, achievements, and cultural impact of African Americans, offering a deeper understanding of their vital role in shaping the city and the nation as a whole.
This museum offers timed tickets and is open daily except Mondays. Most people spend about 1.5 - 2 hours visiting this museum.
If you don't end up visiting the museum itself, the grounds and memorial garden are always open and free to the public. As you walk, remember that not far away ships were anchored in the harbor, carrying enslaved persons as part of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. You will see relief figures representing people as they were held in horrible conditions that are slowly filled with the tide as it comes in. While I recommend a visit to the museum itself, this is one of the most moving parts of a visit.
Get Outdoors
Nature lovers visiting Charleston are in for a treat with its abundance of scenic landscapes and outdoor attractions.
- See 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. 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.
- Cypress Gardens
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.
One of Charleston's hidden gems, Cypress Gardens is a captivating nature preserve that showcases the beauty of the Lowcountry. The highlight of Cypress Gardens is its serene blackwater swamp, adorned with towering cypress trees and vibrant water lilies that create a picturesque scene.
- Joe Riley Waterfront Park and the Pineapple Fountain
This is a beautiful park, voted one of the Top 25 public parks in the U.S. by TripAdvisor, 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. Spanning a total of 10 acres, there's plenty to see and do in the area.
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.
- Angel Oak in Johns 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.
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.
- Visit Shem Creek Boardwalk
This is one of the more beautiful waterfront locations in Charleston, offering views of both Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney.
There are a lot of wonderful restaurants in the area, and several boat tours depart from here as well, so you might even end up here just during the natural course of your activities.
Whether you're looking for great views or you want to enjoy other activities on the water, this is a great spot to visit.
- Spend Time at Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Visitors can expect to find more than 6 miles of trails for hiking, and if you're lucky, you might even see some of the following wildlife along the way:
Go Shopping
The Charleston 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 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.
If you're looking for even more great shopping in the area, head to Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square every Saturday from April - November.
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.”
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!
Every Friday and Saturday evening between April - December there the Night Market runs at the Charleston City Night 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 craft.
While you're shopping, I suggest you be sure to get some of the most popular souvenirs; things you can only get in Charleston (or the lowcountry).
- Sweetgrass Baskets: Handwoven by local artisans using traditional techniques, sweetgrass baskets are a cherished symbol of Charleston's Gullah Geechee heritage. These intricate and beautiful baskets make for a unique and meaningful keepsake. These may seem pricey at first glance but keep in mind this is an oral tradition that is slowly being lost. Each family has their own process so when you buy one, make sure you have the artist sign and date the bottom.
- Palmetto Rose: Made from the leaves of the palmetto tree, the palmetto rose is a popular souvenir in Charleston. These handmade roses are often sold by street vendors and make for a lovely and lasting memento.
- Charleston Rice Spoon: Reflecting the city's rich history in rice cultivation, a Charleston rice spoon is a timeless souvenir that showcases the region's culinary heritage. These beautifully crafted spoons are often made from silver or pewter and make for a functional and decorative piece. You can also purchase a bag of Charleston Gold Rice.
- The best place to get some traditional Charleston food products is inside Charleston City Market at Jonzetta Taylor's stand, named Edna's Lowcountry. Her family has been operating the stand for more than a century.
More Military History
- 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 aircraft carrier 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.
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!
This is also home to the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum, and there are a lot of historic World War II attractions to see here.
- Discover the H.L. Hunley Museum
Both fans of military history and submersibles will want to check out the site of the world's first combat submarine.
Although it might not immediately strike you as the type of location that kids would enjoy, this museum actually has a lot of fun interactive exhibits that children can enjoy.
Visitors can expect to see real artifacts found during the excavation of the submarine, as well as an authentic model of the Hunley.
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:
- Boone Hall Plantation
- 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.
Go Out for Night on the Town
See a Show at 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.
Visit the Palmetto Brewing Company Taproom
If you're looking to enjoy some of the best beer in town straight from the tap, Palmetto Brewing Company has a taproom that is open until 10 pm from Monday - Saturday each week.
This taproom is designed like a speakeasy, and it includes a courtyard with a variety of fun games, live music, and other interesting things to do.
Palmetto Brewing Company currently has a wide variety of brews, including Peach Pale Ale, Mango Passion Fruit Session, a Salted Lime Lager, and a delicious Amber Ale.
Enjoy Live Music at the Forte Jazz Lounge
This is one of the best venues in Charleston for jazz fans, as it hosts live jazz almost every single night of the week.
Tickets are typically reasonably priced, with most shows running from $15-$40 per person.
Visitors can expect a wide variety of sub-genres to be represented from jazz to rockabilly.
In addition to these options, the Forte Jazz Lounge also frequently hosts tribute shows with music from beloved musicians such as B.B. King, Lionel Richie, Bobby Darin, Elton John, Billy Joel, and classic Motown groups.
Grab a Drink at Firefly Distillery
If you're not a fan of beer, Firefly Distillery offers another opportunity to enjoy a variety of cocktails and liquor tastings in Charleston.
While they aren't open as late as places like the Palmetto Brewing Company, they do stay open on Friday nights until 8 pm.
For those who don't like to drink, they actually have some spirit-free mocktails that taste almost exactly like the real thing!
Best of all, you can enjoy both a complimentary tour of the distillery and a free tasting if you have a Charleston Tour Pass.
DAY TRIPS FROM CHARLESTON
There are some interesting places to see and enjoy outside of the city that make great day trips. If you have a longer stay or, like me, you've been to Charleston many times, there are some great options of things to just outside of Charleston.
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.
One of the best things to do here is to go fishing and spend time at the pier.
Depending on how far north you travel, you might be able to see attractions like the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve and the Morris Island Lighthouse.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach, or choose from one of the many seaside restaurants or bars for a meal. Since you're right by the water, you might want to consider some fresh seafood such as shrimp!
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 a 20 to 45-minute drive from the center of Charleston. This includes the private beach of Seabrook Island, which is known for its quiet, idyllic atmosphere, and Kiawah Island, known for its recreational sports, live music, and entertainment.
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.
Sullivan's Island
Just 10 miles east of downtown Charleston, this popular day trip destination has plenty of great beaches, restaurants, and unique shops to visit.
This is one of the most popular places for families looking to get away from the city for a while during the summer.
If you're looking for another location to enjoy the beaches and experience the small-town atmosphere of a beachfront community, Sullivan's Island is one of the best options nearby Charleston.
Immerse yourself in history by visiting Fort Moultrie, a historic site that played a significant role in defending the Charleston Harbor. Learn about its strategic importance during various conflicts and explore the exhibits that shed light on the fort's storied past.
Sample Charleston Itinerary
I've been to Charleston on day trips (don't recommend!) and week long trips. Charleston is one of my favorite southern cities to visit. I head down from Washington, DC regularly for work because I'm friends with our Charleston tour guides but I also went regularly in college thanks to sports.
In case you were looking for inspiration, here are the itineraries from my most recent trips!
November 2024 - Day Trip
I woke up early and took a self guided sunrise walk around the Marion Square area of Charleston, a bit further north of the French Quarter where most of our walking tours take place. I love the architecture of Charleston, but I don't usually get to wander around this part of the city.
I stopped in for breakfast at Saffron Restaurant and Bakery for breakfast and then headed to Liberty Square
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