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Charleston, United States

Destination Guide

Charleston

United States

Best things to do in Charleston

38 curated attractions in Charleston, United States. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

April - June, September - November

Average temp

19°C/66°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Generally safe

About Charleston

Charleston is a city steeped in history, known for its well-preserved architecture and significant role in the American Civil War. Its historic district showcases an array of 18th and 19th-century homes, with Rainbow Row featuring pastel-colored buildings that tourists frequently snap photos of. The city's waterfront parks provide a view of the harbor, while nearby plantations like Boone Hall offer a glimpse into the antebellum South. Residents here often find themselves part of a slower-paced lifestyle, with a community that values deep-rooted traditions. People come for the history and the well-maintained historic sites that tell the story of a city that has seen both thriving prosperity and profound conflict.

Who it's for

History buffs and those who appreciate a leisurely exploration of streets will enjoy Charleston. However, the lack of extensive public transport may frustrate visitors looking to cover a lot of ground quickly. Expect a slower pace that may not suit those on a tight schedule or those seeking a nightlife scene.

Getting around

Public transport: Moderate

  • The historic district can be comfortably walked in about an hour, but expect to take more time for stops along the way
  • Public buses may take longer than anticipated, so plan for potential waits
  • Taxis and rideshares are available but can be limited during busy times
  • Charleston International Airport is about twenty minutes from downtown
Fort Moultrie

Fort Moultrie

Forts & citadels
Firefly Distillery

Firefly Distillery

Breweries, distilleries & food makers
The Circular Congregational Church

The Circular Congregational Church

Churches & cathedrals
The Military College of South Carolina

The Military College of South Carolina

Historic libraries & universities
Charleston Tea Garden

Charleston Tea Garden

Breweries, distilleries & food makers
Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms

Beaches
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

History museums
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Historic houses & mansions
Nathaniel Russell House

Nathaniel Russell House

Historic houses & mansions
Old City Jail

Old City Jail

Historic houses & mansions
The Fireproof Building

The Fireproof Building

History museums
White Point Garden

White Point Garden

City parks
Rhett House

Rhett House

Historic houses & mansions
The Gibbes Museum of Art

The Gibbes Museum of Art

Art museums & galleries
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon

Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon

Historic houses & mansions
Folly Beach

Folly Beach

Beaches
Cypress Gardens

Cypress Gardens

Botanical gardens
Fort Sumter National Monument

Fort Sumter National Monument

Forts & citadels
Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island

Islands
Angel Oak Tree

Angel Oak Tree

Forests & jungles
Charles Pinckney National Historic Site

Charles Pinckney National Historic Site

Historic houses & mansions
Charleston Water Taxi

Charleston Water Taxi

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Drayton Hall

Drayton Hall

Historic houses & mansions
Hampton Park

Hampton Park

City parks
Sullivan's Island

Sullivan's Island

Beaches
Morris Island Lighthouse

Morris Island Lighthouse

Fountains, statues & public art
The Charleston Museum

The Charleston Museum

History museums
South Carolina Aquarium

South Carolina Aquarium

Aquariums
Old Slave Mart Museum

Old Slave Mart Museum

History museums
Charleston Historic District

Charleston Historic District

Old towns & historic quarters
Middleton Place

Middleton Place

Historic houses & mansions
Charleston Waterfront Park

Charleston Waterfront Park

City parks
King Street

King Street

Streets & neighbourhoods
Fort Sumter Visitor Center

Fort Sumter Visitor Center

Historical Attractions
The Battery

The Battery

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Boone Hall Plantation

Boone Hall Plantation

Historic houses & mansions
Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row

Streets & neighbourhoods
Charleston City Market

Charleston City Market

Local & craft markets

Where to eat in Charleston

The places worth planning a meal around.

Port of Call

Port of Call

Seafood, Lowcountry · $30–$50

★ 4.6 · 699 reviews

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