The Holy City earned its name from the high churches that adorn the skyline. Centuries-old mansions, cobblestone walkways, and lamp-lit streets make Charleston feel like a city lost in time. Its rich heritage influences everything from the smallest establishments to the most culturally significant points of interest in Charleston.
This southern port city booms with more than just The Battery. Restaurants, boutiques, bars, distilleries, and local barbecue add modern charms to the historic city of Charleston. The best things to do near Charleston include:
City Market, a landmark 4-block city market
Waterfront Park, which is filled with walkways fountains
The Ravenel Bridge, to feel on top of the world
The Charleston City Marina will give you chills
Folly Beach, which boasts loads of surfing options
If you find yourself this side of the Mason-Dixon line, swing into Charleston to experience some of the best the South has to offer. Put on your Sunday best, arm yourself with a mint julep and strut down the cobblestone streets. Charleston has several popular attractions:
Book a walking tour through centuries-old mansions and cobblestone streets
Start a tour of the city from The Battery overlooking the Charleston Harbor
Sign up for a boat tour for a view of Charleston Harbor from the water
Visit The Charleston City Market’s many boutiques for local goods
Swing dance through the crowd at King Street’s Prohibition bar
Charleston and its surrounding area has a variety of adventure for the whole family. Whether your kids have a green thumb or they if they are interested by an interactive history lesson, Charleston has a lot to offer. Here’s a sample of family-friendly things to do near Charleston:
Young thrill-seekers will get a kick out of Charleston Zip Line Adventures
Tom’s Toys has lots of room for kids to play
Treat yourself to the menu at Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe
There’s plenty of things to do in Charleston on a rainy day or gloomy night – explore historic buildings or grab a cozy cup of coffee. Here are more ideas on things to do indoors:
Marvel at antique furnishings at Aiken-Rhett House Museum, originally built in the 19th century
Explore the historic home of Nathaniel Russell, now immortalized as a museum
Give Edmund’s Oasts many beer selections a try
Try the evolving sandwich menu at Butcher & Bee
Sports and Outdoor Activities in CharlestonView All
Charleston’s foodie culture creates a better-than-average craft burger scene. Round out your trip with gamete pretzels and laidback local hangouts. Here’s a few must-see places near Charleston:
Enjoy a lavender latte at Black Tap
Stop by The Mezz on King Street, a hidden-to-the-naked-eye second-floor jazz club and lounge
Try the okonomiaki, a Japanese cabbage pancake found at Xiao Bar Biscuit
Visit Cypress Gardens, a swan-filled park located just outside of Charleston city limits
Hit up the beach then grab a meal at The Obstinate Daughter
Charleston is defined by its waterways — it bridges the Ashley River, Cooper River, and the Atlantic Ocean. South Carolina’s Colonial port city boasts gorgeous views and scrumptious seafood. From historic tours to fun on the water, there’s many things to do in Charleston. Here are a few ideas for exciting activities :
Get your hands dirty and shuck oysters at Charleston Oyster Roasts
Reserve a table at Sean Brock’s flagship restaurant, Husk
Sample a meat plate at Spring Street’s Artisan Meat Share
Keep it low-key at Closed for Business, a Charleston beer haven
Relax at King Street Grille with 36 flat-screen TVs and gametime menu options
Charleston and its surrounding area has a variety of adventure for the whole family. Whether your kids have a green thumb or they if they are interested by an interactive history lesson, Charleston has a lot to offer. Here’s a sample of family-friendly things to do near Charleston:
Young thrill-seekers will get a kick out of Charleston Zip Line Adventures
Tom’s Toys has lots of room for kids to play
Treat yourself to the menu at Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe