- Top Attractions
- See & Do
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Why Visit Charleston
Established in 1670, Charleston's history is preserved in its Georgian and Federal architecture. Key sites include Rainbow Row and The Battery. Many historic porches are painted "haint blue," a Gullah tradition believed to ward off restless spirits.
Beyond the city, the Ashley and Cooper rivers frame a landscape of tidal creeks and barrier islands. Visiting Charleston means you can explore Folly Beach or kayak through salt marshes. On Johns Island, the ancient Angel Oak provides 17,200 sq ft of shade.
The best reasons to visit Charleston include its Lowcountry cuisine. Savor classics like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup, which uniquely includes crab roe. This dish was reputedly created at Everett's for President Taft, a true local culinary legend.
- CharlestonUnited States
- CharlestonUnited States
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- CharlestonUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Mar-Maymild, wildflowers in bloom
- Jun-Aughot, peak tourist season
- Sep-Novpleasant, lower crowds
- Dec-Febcool, occasional rain
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #LightClothing
- #RainGear
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-6 with beaches & day trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #HistoricDowntown
- #BatteryPark
- #FortSumter
- #RainbowRow
- #MagnoliaPlantation
- #CharlestonCityMarket
- Explore the historic district
- Taste she-crab soup
- Walk the waterfront park
- Visit plantations
- Take a ghost tour
Recommended Hotels in Charleston by Experience
Things to do in Charleston
Discover
Exploring Charleston reveals historic Fort Sumter, the scenic waterfront promenade The Battery, and the Historic District's pastel antebellum houses. Discover America's first museum, The Charleston Museum, and the iconic Ravenel Bridge.
Experience
Take a horse-drawn carriage tour, explore Gullah Geechee culture, or browse the historic City Market. Enjoy seasonal events like the Spoleto Festival USA or taste local produce at farmers markets. Kayaking the coastal waterways is also popular.
The Battery
Historic promenade with grand homes and Civil War cannons.
Fort Sumter National Monument
Historic sea fort where the American Civil War began.
Rainbow Row
Iconic street with thirteen colorful historic houses.
Charleston City Market
Historic market with local crafts and sweetgrass baskets.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
America's oldest public gardens, open since 1870.
Folly Beach
Relaxed barrier island beach known for surfing and pier.
Historic Charleston Carriage Tour
Guided tour of the historic district by horse-drawn carriage.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Plan a trip to Charleston via Charleston International Airport (CHS). To get from the Charleston airport to city center, use the CARTA bus (~60 min), a Charleston shuttle bus, or a taxi (~30 min). Amtrak offers a train to Charleston via its NCHS station.
Getting Around
The historic center is walkable. For public transport in Charleston, use CARTA's free DASH trolley. A water taxi connects downtown to Mt. Pleasant. Car rental in Charleston is best for exploring beaches and plantations outside the main peninsula.
Local Essentials
Driving in Charleston's historic district is tricky due to narrow, one-way cobblestone streets. Parking is scarce. Watch for uneven sidewalks. During heavy rain, streets can flood quickly. Book popular restaurant reservations weeks ahead of your visit.
Where to Stay in Charleston
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Charleston by tasting Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits and she-crab soup. Locals embrace leisurely dining, making brunch a weekend ritual and dinner a relaxed, multi-course affair to truly eat and enjoy.
Enjoy
Dine at Husk for its upscale Southern vibe, book far ahead. Sip drinks at The Rooftop at The Vendue for panoramic views, arrive early. Grab a famous biscuit at Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, a cozy spot, expect queues.
Husk Restaurant
Celebrated modern Southern cuisine in a historic home.
Halls Chophouse
An iconic fine-dining steakhouse with lively service.
FIG
Elevated, seasonal American dishes. Reservations essential.
Fleet Landing Restaurant
Casual seafood dining right on the Charleston Harbor.
Poogan's Porch
Classic Southern cooking in a charming Victorian house.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Charleston's traditions through events honoring its Gullah Geechee heritage. The MOJA Arts Festival celebrates African American and Caribbean culture with street parades and music, deeply rooted in the city's history.
Enjoy
Discover contemporary Charleston attractions with must-see events like the Spoleto Festival USA, featuring opera and jazz. The city's creative energy is also showcased through its many art galleries and live music venues.
Spoleto Festival USA
May-June performing arts event: opera, theater, jazz, dance.
MOJA Arts Festival
Fall celebration of African American and Caribbean culture.
Charleston Wine + Food Festival
A must-see five-day culinary event in March with tastings.
Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
February event celebrating wildlife art and conservation.
The Fall Tours
October tours of private historic homes and gardens.
Holiday Festival of Lights
Nov-Dec drive-thru light show with millions of twinkling lights.
Lowcountry Oyster Festival
World's largest oyster festival held in the winter.
A Truly Beautiful City
Charleston is just a lovely place to walk around. The old architecture is incredible, and every street feels like a postcard. We loved seeing the colorful houses on Rainbow Row. It's a very photogenic city with a relaxed pace of life.
Great Coastal Getaway
Such a nice break from the usual city trip. The proximity to the ocean is a huge plus. We spent a lot of time near Folly Beach, just enjoying the sand and the sound of the waves. It has a really easygoing feel, very different from a big metropolis.
Wonderful for Walking & Shopping
Charleston is one of the most walkable cities I've visited. It was so easy to explore the historic district on foot. The shops along King Street are fantastic, with a great selection of boutiques and galleries. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Full of History and Scenery
The history here is so tangible. We really enjoyed walking along The Battery, looking out at the water and seeing the beautiful old homes. You can feel the past all around you. It's a city that tells a story on every corner.
So Much More Than Just a City
I loved how close the nature is. Seeing the dolphins from the docks at Shem Creek was a real highlight. The marsh scenery is beautiful and gives you a completely different perspective on the area. Great for anyone who likes being by the water.
Fantastic Southern Food and People
The people here were so welcoming and friendly. We had some amazing food, too-the shrimp and grits were incredible. It's not just about the sights; the whole feeling of Southern hospitality is real and makes the experience so pleasant.