a city with a tall tower

Explore the Holy City

14 Best Things to Do in Charleston

Find inspiration for your next Charleston adventure with insider tips on more than a dozen local attractions and can’t-miss activities. Picture yourself exploring the neighborhoods and strolling cobblestone streets of the city we call home.

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01
a row of houses on a street

Stroll Through Historic Downtown

0.4 miles
9 Minute-Walk

Wander Charleston’s most charming streets, where cobblestone alleys, pastel-hued façades, and iron-wrought balconies recall stories from past centuries. From the iconic Rainbow Row to the French Quarter and South of Broad, every neighborhood invites you to slow down and look up. Along the way, you’ll pass hidden gardens, centuries-old churches, and some of the most photographed homes in the South. It’s a walk through history that’s beautifully layered and promises quiet discovery.

02
a gazebo in a park

Visit the Battery and White Point Garden

0.9 miles
19 Minute-Walk

Wander Charleston’s most charming streets, where cobblestone alleys, pastel-hued façades, and iron-wrought balconies recall stories from past centuries. From the iconic Rainbow Row to the French Quarter and South of Broad, every neighborhood invites you to slow down and look up. Along the way, you’ll pass hidden gardens, centuries-old churches, and some of the most photographed homes in the South. It’s a walk through history that’s beautifully layered and promises quiet discovery.

03
a horse pulling a carriage

Take a Carriage Ride Tour

0.1 miles
3 Minute-Walk

Climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage and roll through the city’s storied streets. With expert guides sharing stories of pirates, patriots, and preservation, it’s an unforgettable way to explore the historic district—hooves clacking, breeze blowing, and the city revealing itself one story at a time. Routes are assigned by lottery, so every tour uncovers a different part of the city. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, you’re bound to discover something new.

04

Walk Along King Street

0.3 miles
7 Minute-Walk

Charleston’s premier shopping corridor is a blend of upscale boutiques, antique shops, indie brands, and decadent eateries. Whether you’re browsing designer threads or sipping coffee on a sidewalk patio, King Street is a walkable, stylish slice of the city. The street is also known for its Second Sunday events, during which the street closes to traffic and turns into a lively pedestrian plaza. 

05
a bar with green chairs and a shelf with books

Imbibe at The Bar at The Spectator Hotel

0 miles
0 Minute-Drive

Wander Charleston’s most charming streets, where cobblestone alleys, pastel-hued façades, and iron-wrought balconies recall stories from past centuries. From the iconic Rainbow Row to the French Quarter and South of Broad, every neighborhood invites you to slow down and look up. Along the way, you’ll pass hidden gardens, centuries-old churches, and some of the most photographed homes in the South. It’s a walk through history that’s beautifully layered and promises quiet discovery.

06
a swamp with trees and plants

Explore Cypress Gardens

29.1 Miles
43 Minute-Drive

Let a local guide do the paddling while sharing wildlife sightings and fascinating historical trivia — all delivered in a wonderful Southern accent. Prefer to explore on your own? Paddle at your own pace on a self-guided journey through natural landscapes made famous by Hollywood films.

07
a grey and black background

Visit the Charleston Museum

1.2 Miles
6 Minute-Drive

Founded in 1773, the Charleston Museum holds the title of America’s first museum—and its exhibits are as wide-ranging as they are fascinating. From ancient fossils to Civil War artifacts, the collection tells the story of the Lowcountry in vivid detail. Don’t miss the Historic Houses included with admission, which offer an intimate glimpse into domestic life through the centuries. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in Charleston’s layered legacy.

08
a bird on a beach

Lounge on Sullivan’s Island Beach

9.2 Miles
21 Minute-Drive

Just minutes from downtown, Sullivan’s Island offers a low-key beach escape with soft white sands and gentle surf. After sunbathing or swimming, explore the charming village, where casual cafés and coastal boutiques complete the perfect seaside afternoon. The beach is uncrowded, beautifully natural, and perfect for long walks at golden hour. It’s where locals go when they need a breath of salt air and calm.

09
a large tree with many branches

Discover the Angel Oak Tree

13.4 Miles
34 Minute-Drive

Considered the largest Southern live oak tree east of the Mississippi River, the Angel Oak on Johns Island is one of South Carolina’s treasures. Estimated to be at least 400 years old, its sprawling branches shade an area more than 17,000 square feet.

10
a grey and black background

Visit the Charleston City Market

0.1 miles
2 Minute-drive

One of Charleston’s most iconic attractions, this historic market spans four blocks and brims with local culture. Browse handmade sweetgrass baskets, sample regional treats, and soak in the vibrant energy of this beloved gathering place. The market’s Night Market adds an extra layer of charm with twinkling lights and evening music. It’s the perfect stop for souvenirs, snacks, and conversation with local artisans.

11
a grey and black background

Spend an Afternoon at the International African American Museum

0.8 miles
4 Minute-drive

Wander Charleston’s most charming streets, where cobblestone alleys, pastel-hued façades, and iron-wrought balconies recall stories from past centuries. From the iconic Rainbow Row to the French Quarter and South of Broad, every neighborhood invites you to slow down and look up. Along the way, you’ll pass hidden gardens, centuries-old churches, and some of the most photographed homes in the South. It’s a walk through history that’s beautifully layered and promises quiet discovery.

12
a grey and black background

Admire the Exhibits at the Gibbes Museum of Art

0.3 miles
6 Minute-walk

Home to more than 10,000 works, the Gibbes Museum bridges Charleston’s past and present through art. From 18th-century masterpieces to bold contemporary work, every gallery invites visitors to engage with the region’s rich cultural legacy. The building itself is a Beaux Arts gem, with skylights and stained glass adding to the experience. Art lovers and casual visitors can all find something to admire here.

13
a street with cars and flags

Stroll Through Historic Downtown

0.4 miles
9 Minute-drive

Wander Charleston’s most charming streets, where cobblestone alleys, pastel-hued façades, and iron-wrought balconies recall stories from past centuries. From the iconic Rainbow Row to the French Quarter and South of Broad, every neighborhood invites you to slow down and look up. Along the way, you’ll pass hidden gardens, centuries-old churches, and some of the most photographed homes in the South. It’s a walk through history that’s beautifully layered and promises quiet discovery.

14
a brick building with a large body of water

Explore Fort Sumter

0.8 Miles
4 Minute-drive

Accessible only by ferry, this coastal fortress marks the flashpoint that officially marked the beginning of the Civil War. Explore the historic grounds, take in sweeping views of the harbor, and visit the onsite museum for a deeper look at Charleston’s pivotal role in this iconic period in American history. Park rangers share stories that bring the site to life, blending education with a powerful perspective on how the past continues to shape the world we live in.

15
a path with trees and a lamp post

Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

11.6 miles
29 Minute-drive

Wander Charleston’s most charming streets, where cobblestone alleys, pastel-hued façades, and iron-wrought balconies recall stories from past centuries. From the iconic Rainbow Row to the French Quarter and South of Broad, every neighborhood invites you to slow down and look up. Along the way, you’ll pass hidden gardens, centuries-old churches, and some of the most photographed homes in the South. It’s a walk through history that’s beautifully layered and promises quiet discovery.