Things To Do
in Charleston
Charleston, United States (South Carolina), sits on a tidal harbor with cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture. The city is famed for Lowcountry cuisine, historic plantations, and genteel Southern hospitality. Stroll along The Battery, explore the Charleston City Market, and savor waterfront sunsets.
From lively neighborhoods to nearby beaches, Charleston blends old-world charm with modern culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, savoring their famous biscuits and local coffee. Afterward, take a guided walking tour through the historic district, where you'll marvel at the antebellum architecture and learn about Charleston's rich history. Don't forget to visit the iconic Rainbow Row, a series of beautifully painted historic homes.
Enjoy lunch at Fleet Landing, where you can dine on fresh seafood while overlooking the harbor. Post-lunch, take a stroll through Waterfront Park, enjoying the views of the Cooper River and the famous Pineapple Fountain. To wrap up the afternoon, explore the charming shops and galleries along King Street, where you can find unique local crafts and souvenirs.
For dinner, indulge in Lowcountry cuisine at Husk, where the menu highlights local ingredients and traditional Southern recipes. After your meal, take a ghost tour through the historic streets, learning about the city's haunted past and eerie legends. Cap off the evening with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, soaking in panoramic views of the city skyline.
Begin your day with breakfast at Toast, known for its hearty Southern breakfast options. Head out to Magnolia Plantation and Gardens to explore the stunning grounds, which boast beautiful gardens and rich history dating back to the 17th century. Take a guided tour of the plantation house, where you'll learn about the lives of its former inhabitants.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the plantation grounds before continuing your exploration of the gardens. Consider taking a boat tour through the nearby wetlands, where you can spot native wildlife such as alligators and herons. The combination of nature and history makes for a captivating afternoon.
Return to the city for dinner at Poogan's Porch, a cozy eatery housed in a historic Victorian home. After dinner, stroll along the Battery, admiring the antebellum mansions and watching the sunset over the harbor. End the evening with a sweet treat from the famous Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe, known for its decadent desserts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍝Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏨Hotel room (per night) | $150-250 |
| 🚕Taxi or rideshare short trip | $8-15 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Excellent seafood and Lowcountry cuisine
- Walkable historic core and scenic waterfront
- Strong culinary scene with high-quality dining
- Can be touristy in peak seasons
- High humidity and summer heat
- Parking and traffic can be challenging in the Historic District
- Some attractions require ferry trips or car travel for access
Places to Visit in Charleston
Visit one of these nice places.
A row of pastel historic homes on East Bay Street that makes for vibrant architectural photos.
Waterfront promenade with mansions and moss-draped live oaks overlooking Charleston Harbor.
Colorful fountain and waterfront views perfect for sunrise or sunset shots.
Massive ancient oak on Johns Island draped in Spanish moss, creating dramatic natural frames.
Food in Charleston
Charleston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a light sauce, a Charleston staple found from casual shacks to fine dining.
Must-Try!
A communal seafood boil with shrimp, sausage, corn and potatoes, best enjoyed outdoors with friends.
Creamy soup enriched with crab meat and a hint of sherry, a beloved coastal classic.
Rice and black-eyed peas often served with greens and a touch of pork for luck and flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market district along Market Street with seafood bites, pralines, and local crafts.
Seasonal market at Marion Square featuring farm produce, baked goods, and street food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be friendly and polite; greetings and pleasantries are common.
Dress codes vary from casual to smart casual; dress a bit nicer for fine dining.
Tipping is customary; always tip for services in restaurants and for hotel staff.
In historic churches dress modestly and speak softly; photography policies vary by location.
Safety
Tipping in Charleston
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically expect 15-20 percent. Round up at casual bars or tip $1-2 per drink. Leave tips for service staff in hotels.
Credit cards are widely accepted (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). Cash is fine; mobile payments via Apple Pay or Google Pay are common in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the Atlantic hurricane season from June through November.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, ideal for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Mild winters with occasional cold snaps, great for sightseeing with fewer crowds.
Blooming landscapes, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant outdoor events and festivals.
Charleston at Night
Hiking in Charleston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails just outside Charleston offering shade, wildlife, and varied terrain.
Marsh and coastal boardwalk trails with birdwatching and scenic seascapes.
Johns Island area near the Angel Oak Tree with forest paths and majestic oaks.
Airports
How to reach Charleston by plane.
Major airport serving Charleston with domestic flights and some regional connections; easy reach to downtown by taxi, rideshare, or rental car.
Approximately 2 hours by car from Charleston; serves the broader region with domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A dynamic downtown workforce across hospitality, education, and tech sectors.
Suburban neighborhoods and good school options attract family living.
The mild climate and relaxed pace appeal to retirees.
A central part of Charleston's heritage and cultural life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Charleston area features numerous public and private courses and year-round play in a mild climate.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Charleston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Charleston offers many vegetarian options. Look for vegetable plates, salads, roasted vegetables, and sides like grits or cornbread. Most restaurants can accommodate by substituting proteins or presenting veggie dishes.