I had the best time in Charleston, South Carolina. I can actually see myself living here at some point ( I know, I know, I say that about a lot of places). But seriously, the charm of this gorgeous southern city is intoxicating and I instantly fell in love. There was just something about the colorful streets, kind locals, and hundreds of years of history that just got me. So if you’re planning a trip to the South and looking for things to do in Charleston, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are 10 things to do in Charleston, SC…
1. Take a carriage tour around the city.
Spend a few hours learning about the history, the architecture and the importance. of Charleston, while enjoying a carriage ride and taking in the beautiful sites. There are several different options for tours, but we chose the one that was located across the street from the market. The tours leave every hour and they can get pretty busy in the summertime so I suggest booking ahead with your hotel or the tour company.
2. Eat some Southern Comfort Food.
I died over Magnolias… The white table cloth restaurant was a real surprise. I expected a stuffy environment but discovered an amazing location that combines class with traditional Southern food. Do yourself a favor and order the Mac n cheese.
3. Stroll down Rainbow Row.
Made up of thirteen houses in varying pastel colors, Rainbow Row is one of the can’t miss sites of Charleston. It’s obviously a hotspot for all those who love to #travelcolorfully and definitely tops the list of things to do in Charleston.
4. Take a Drive to Boone Hall Plantation.
Join a guided tour of the oldest working plantation in the country. See if you can figure out which movies and tv shows were filmed here. We weren’t able to do this, but it’s going to stand at the top of my list of things to do in Charleston the next time that I’m in town.
5. Ferry to Fort Sumter.
If history is your thing, you can’t go to Charleston without visiting Fort Sumter, where two civil war battles were fought.
6. Shop till you drop.
Head to King Street and spend hours shopping. Or, stop into the Charleston City Market for local goods. There are tons of great boutiques, interesting stalls selling vintage items, and kitschy souvenir shops!
7. Check out the Nightlife.
Most bars are locate on upper King Street and Market Street. Head there for some late night fun.
8. Lounge in Battery Park after taking a stroll near the water.
Once the hanging grounds, as well as battlefields for a few wards, Battery Park is surrounded by gorgeous historic homes and incredible live Oaks. It’s also located right next to the water so it makes the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll!
9. Head to the Beach.
There are five beaches (Kiawah Island. Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, Seabrook Island, and Sullivan’s Island) close to Charleston. Check them out.
10. Wander the beautiful side streets.
My favorite way to experience a city is to just wander, and with the beautiful homes in Charleston, there is no reason not to spend a few hours doing just this.
