Charleston, South Carolina, is a city where history and Southern charm meet coastal beauty. Stroll beneath moss-draped oaks, wander cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored homes and discover a place that feels as timeless as it is welcoming. Founded in 1670, this port city tells the story of America’s past through its architecture, cuisine and culture. From historic landmarks and waterfront parks to nearby plantations and scenic beaches, here are the best things to do in Charleston, SC.
1. Explore the Historic District
Charleston’s Historic District is the heart and soul of the city. Its streets are lined with grand antebellum mansions, wrought-iron gates and centuries-old churches. Take a guided walking tour or simply wander on your own to admire Rainbow Row, a stretch of pastel-colored homes that perfectly capture Charleston’s charm. Stop by the Battery and White Point Garden to see cannons from the Civil War and enjoy sweeping harbor views. Every corner reveals a new layer of history and Southern elegance.
2. Visit Boone Hall Plantation
Located just across the Cooper River in Mount Pleasant, Boone Hall Plantation is one of the oldest working plantations in America. The drive leading up to the house is lined with towering oak trees draped in Spanish moss, creating one of the most photographed entrances in the South. Tour the Colonial Revival mansion, explore historic slave cabins and learn about the site’s role in shaping the region’s agricultural and cultural heritage. The plantation's gardens, butterfly pavilion and Gullah presentations make this one of the top things to do in Charleston for those interested in history.
3. Stroll Along Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is a Charleston favorite and the perfect place to unwind. The park stretches along the Cooper River and offers shaded paths, fountains and swings overlooking the harbor. The Pineapple Fountain, one of Charleston’s most recognizable landmarks, symbolizes Southern hospitality and makes a great photo stop. At sunset, locals and visitors gather here to watch the light fade over the water, with sailboats drifting across the horizon.
4. Tour Fort Sumter
For history lovers, a visit to Fort Sumter National Monument is one of the best things to do in Charleston, SC. Accessible only by boat, the fort sits on an island in Charleston Harbor where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired in 1861. Guided tours provide insight into the events that shaped U.S. history, while the ferry ride offers beautiful views of the city skyline and the Ravenel Bridge.
5. Wander Through the Charleston City Market
Located in the heart of downtown, the Charleston City Market has been a gathering place for more than two centuries. The market stretches over four city blocks and is filled with local vendors selling handmade crafts, sweetgrass baskets, art and souvenirs. It's a great place to sample local treats, meet Charleston artisans and take home a piece of the city’s culture.
6. Experience Charleston’s Food Scene
Charleston is one of America’s top culinary destinations. The city’s food scene blends Lowcountry flavors with modern creativity, offering dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup and fried green tomatoes. Visit one of the historic restaurants near East Bay Street or enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront eatery. Don’t forget to stop for pralines or a classic biscuit breakfast. Food tours are a fun way to explore the flavors that define Charleston, South Carolina.
7. Take a Carriage Ride Through Downtown
Few experiences capture Charleston’s old-world charm like a horse-drawn carriage ride through its historic streets. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the city’s architecture, residents and significant events as you roll past landmarks and hidden courtyards. It's both relaxing and informative, offering a unique perspective on one of America’s most beautifully preserved cities.
8. Visit the Charleston Tea Garden
Located on Wadmalaw Island, the Charleston Tea Garden is the only tea plantation in North America. Take a trolley tour through fields of lush tea plants and learn how tea is grown and processed. The on-site factory and gift shop offer tastings of fresh tea blends, while the surrounding landscape provides a peaceful escape from the city. This is one of the top things to do in Charleston for anyone who loves nature and unique local experiences.
9. Discover Magnolia & Middleton Place Gardens
Charleston is famous for its grand gardens, and two of the most beautiful are Magnolia Plantation and Middleton Place. Magnolia’s romantic-style gardens feature winding paths, blooming camellias and a historic home that dates back to the 1600s. Middleton Place, meanwhile, is home to America’s oldest landscaped gardens, and offers a glimpse into plantation life along the Ashley River. Both sites combine natural beauty with living history and are easy day trips from the city.
10. Experience Charleston’s Ghostly Side
Charleston’s long and storied past has given rise to countless ghost tales and legends. Take an evening walking tour through old cemeteries, cobblestone alleys and historic homes said to be haunted by former residents. Guides share spine-tingling stories that mix folklore and history, offering a fun and memorable way to experience the city after dark.
11. Relax at Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island
When you're ready to trade cobblestones for sand, head to one of Charleston’s nearby beaches. Folly Beach is laid-back and colorful, with surf shops, beach bars and a long pier perfect for sunset walks. Sullivan’s Island, just north of the city, offers quieter shores and historic sites like Fort Moultrie. Both beaches are only a short drive from downtown Charleston and provide the perfect ending to a day of sightseeing.
What Are the Top Things To Do in Charleston?
The top things to do in Charleston include exploring the Historic District, visiting Boone Hall Plantation and strolling along the waterfront. You can tour Fort Sumter, shop at the City Market and sample Lowcountry cuisine at local restaurants. For outdoor fun, relax on Folly Beach, wander through Magnolia Gardens or take a carriage ride through downtown. With its blend of history, food and coastal charm, there's no shortage of fun things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.
Discover Charleston, South Carolina With a Shore Excursion
Charleston captures the heart of the South with its rich history, natural beauty and genuine hospitality. Booking a Charleston shore excursion makes it easy to explore the highlights, from historic homes and Civil War landmarks to beaches, gardens and delicious food. Whether you're uncovering the city’s past or simply soaking up its charm, Charleston is a destination that leaves every visitor inspired.
