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28 Best Things to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

Planning a trip to the Holy City? Here are 28 of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Planning Your Perfect Charleston Itinerary

Can’t-miss attractions, top things to do in charleston for history lovers, for foodies, for families with kids, for couples.

• For Groups of Friends

Consistently ranked among the best cities in the United States by Travel + Leisure readers, Charleston is a vacation treasure trove, with an incredible food scene made up of old-school favorites and inventive newcomers, a prime location surrounded by water and near beautiful beaches, and plenty to see and do. As a South Carolinian who lived in Charleston for several years, I've seen and done it all in this Lowcountry destination, but in order to round up the best things to do in Charleston, I also tapped local experts from a few of my favorite hotels, including David Hood, head butler at The Spectator Hotel, and Jason Horbal and Mike Wilson from the HarbourView Inn.

"For history lovers, the historic downtown has much to see and do. Between the walking tours, historic homes, and museums, there is plenty to see that will keep you busy for days. For others, outside of downtown, there are beaches, yachting, fishing, golf, shopping and so much more. Charleston also offers some of the best cuisine in the South," says Wilson, front office manager at HarbourView Inn.

With something for every type of traveler, here are 28 of the best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you’re short on time with just a day or two to explore Charleston, there are a few must-see spots to check out. Thankfully, several of the city’s top attractions — including King Street, the Battery, Rainbow Row, and Charleston City Market — are all located within walking distance of each other and can easily be seen in one day. If you’re spending several days in the Holy City, I recommend visiting those can’t-miss sights before diving deeper into Charleston history and culture with a museum visit or tour (more on our top picks below). And if you have time, rent a car and explore the surrounding areas; you can lounge on the beach at Sullivan’s Island, go golfing on a renowned Kiawah Island course, or search for shark teeth on Morris Island. 

Stroll along Waterfront Park and the Battery.

Start in Joe Riley Waterfront Park, where you'll see the iconic Pineapple Fountain, and walk down along the water before strolling over to Rainbow Row, made up of several candy-colored Georgian-style row homes. Continue down East Bay until it becomes East Battery, another scenic street with views of the harbor and historic houses.

"Charleston has a very European city feel to it, balancing small-town intimacy with cosmopolitan amenities and offerings (probably part of the reason why Charleston, South Carolina and Spoleto, Italy have been "sister cities" for nearly 50 years). I enjoy strolling around the downtown peninsula, in the heart of the historic district, where travelers can experience a variety of dining, history, art, culture, and more, all on foot," says David Hood, head butler at The Spectator Hotel.

Related:   Charleston Travel Guide

Walk down King Street.

A visit to Charleston is incomplete without a stroll down the main drag, King Street. On Lower King, find antique shops packed with all sorts of vintage wares; Middle King features a mix of locally owned shops and high-end boutiques; and Upper King is home to some of the city's best nightlife and dining.

Take a ghost tour.

Get acquainted with the spooky side of the city and learn about some of its eternal residents on a ghost tour. Bulldog Tours has options ranging from a visit to the haunted (and historic) old jail to a paranormal investigation of the USS Yorktown .

Pick up a sweetgrass basket.

There are few souvenirs as iconic as a Charleston sweetgrass basket. Created by Gullah artisans with designs ranging from functional to intricate, you can find these baskets, woven from local marsh grass, throughout the city (with many sellers in the Charleston City Market ).

Visit the International African American Museum.

After more than two decades of planning, the International African American Museum (IAAM) opened its doors on June 27, 2023 at Gadsden's Wharf, one of the nation’s most prolific former slave trading ports. The landmark project aims to showcase the breadth of African American history through nine core exhibition galleries, a special exhibition gallery, and contemporary art throughout the space. In addition to more than 700 artifacts from the 17th century to the present day, the building also houses the Center for Family History, a genealogy and ancestry resource center. On the ground level, the African Ancestors Memorial Garden will spotlight the shoreline where hundreds of thousands of enslaved Africans first set foot in America, creating a new space for reflection, programming, and learning opportunities for all.

Learn about U.S. history on the USS Yorktown.

While the historic city is perhaps better known for its significance during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, you can learn about World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum , where you'll find the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, a destroyer, and a submarine, along with other educational exhibits.

Explore Fort Moultrie and Fort Sumter.

The two forts that make up the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park tell the story of Charleston's role in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Fort Moultrie, located on Sullivan's Island, was in use from 1776 to 1947, while Fort Sumter, found on an island in Charleston Harbor that's only accessible by boat, was the site of the start of the Civil War.

Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum.

In a city known for its former plantations and antebellum homes, it's important to recognize the true human history. The Old Slave Mart Museum is located inside a building that was used as an auction gallery where enslaved people were sold. Here, you can learn more about the history of slavery in Charleston.

See the Angel Oak.

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. The tree is estimated to be at least 400 years old, which is evident given its sprawling branches that shade an area of over 17,000 square feet. A new 44-acre preserve featuring boardwalk trails, a play area for children, and educational information about the tree is underway, so visitors will have even more to look forward to in the future.

Learn about Gullah history and culture.

The Gullah are African American people from the Lowcountry regions of South Carolina and neighboring states, and their history and culture (and language, also called Gullah) are important parts of the Charleston story. Join Gullah Tours to learn more about Black history in the city, stopping at significant places like Denmark Vesey's home, quarters where enslaved people once lived, and more.

Start your day with biscuits.

Start your day with a warm, indulgent biscuit. Choose from nationally acclaimed Callie's Hot Little Biscuit (which has two outposts downtown) or head across the river to Mount Pleasant for Vicious Biscuit , a personal favorite. At the latter, I order The Vicious, a cheddar and jalapeño biscuit stuffed with fried chicken, their signature maple sausage gravy, house cowboy candy, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Shop local at the farmers market on Saturdays.

Saturday mornings are best spent in the heart of downtown Charleston at the farmers market on Marion Square. Find local produce, artisan crafts, and snacks to enjoy while you browse.

Eat your way around the city's best restaurants.

"Charleston’s robust culinary scene has inspired visitors to experience a few of the city’s most popular dining hot spots that have made best restaurant lists time and time again, and for good reason," says Jason Horbal, assistant general manager at HarbourView Inn . Charleston has long been known as a foodie destination, with a mix of newcomers and established favorites. My top recommendations include Wild Common for the incredible tasting menu, Fig for elevated Southern dishes, Hank's Seafood Restaurant for tasty seafood, and Halls Chophouse for steaks followed by bread pudding. That said, Horbal also encourages visitors to ask locals (including the knowledgeable staff at your hotel) for any under-the-radar favorites. "My favorite thing to do in Charleston is discover the lesser-known, hidden gems of restaurants that tend to fly under the radar," says Horbal.

And order these classic Charleston dishes.

On your culinary tour of the city, there are a few local dishes that visitors must try (and they're featured on the menus of many restaurants). Try fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and hush puppies (delightful balls of deep-fried dough, often served as a starter or a side), all washed down with a glass of sweet tea.

Sip some local brews.

Local breweries abound in Charleston, so try one (or a few) of the beers from the likes of Edmund's Oast Brewing Co. , Holy City Brewing , and Westbrook Brewing , or head to the Firefly Distillery , known for their fan-favorite sweet tea vodka and fruit-flavored moonshine.

See the local marine life at the South Carolina Aquarium.

This waterfront aquarium is home to more than 5,000 animals and the Sea Turtle Care Center, which aids sick or injured turtles. The AZA-accredited aquarium highlights the marine life found throughout South Carolina, from the mountains to the coast.

Cheer on the Charleston RiverDogs.

Charleston is home to a Minor League Baseball team — the RiverDogs — so those looking for a sporty outing can snag tickets to cheer them on. (Fun fact: Actor Bill Murray is a part-owner of the team.)

Visit Charles Towne Landing.

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site , located in West Ashley, is home to the site of the first European settlement founded in South Carolina (in 1670). Here, you can explore the gardens, visit the original settlement area, and even see animals that lived in the area when it was settled. "It has a perfect mix of history and scenery, and you can really get a sense of what Charleston and the Lowcountry are all about with its self-guided history trail, bike rentals, strolling through the alley of live oaks, and visiting its 12-room exhibit hall," says Hood.

Watch eagles, falcons, and owls take flight.

The Center for Birds of Prey at the Avian Conservation Center offers visitors an opportunity to learn about birds of prey in a beautiful setting. Situated on a 152-acre campus just north of Charleston, the center includes a medical clinic for injured birds and a facility for research, conservation, and educational programs. The center offers tours and flight demonstrations every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, allowing visitors to observe the flight techniques and hunting styles of eagles, hawks, owls, falcons, and vultures.

Search for shark teeth on Morris Island.

Only accessible by boat, Morris Island is an 840-acre uninhabited island in Charleston Harbor. Used as a strategic location during the American Civil War, the island has a rich history, but few physical traces of its battleground past remain. Instead, you’ll find a secluded beach studded with shells, fossils, and shark teeth. Tour operators like Adventure Harbour Tours offer guided excursions that focus on searching for beach treasures and learning about the island’s ecology – and you may even spot some dolphins along the way.

Take a sunset cruise.

Getting out on the water — river, harbor, creek, or ocean — is a must when you visit Charleston. One way to take advantage of the waterfront location is a sunset cruise through the harbor aboard a catamaran or tall ship .

Admire art from near and far.

Head to the Gibbes Museum of Art to see works ranging from 18th-century paintings and decorative arts to contemporary pieces from local artists. After that, you can visit some of the many galleries throughout the city — perhaps you'll even find a piece to take home as a souvenir. I recommend art lovers time their visit to the yearly Spoleto Festival, which welcomes artists from around the globe for a 2+ week performing arts extravaganza.

Stroll the Shem Creek Boardwalk.

Shem Creek, located in Mount Pleasant, is home to several waterfront seafood restaurants, and you can walk along its boardwalk to take in views of the water, marsh, and boats (and breathe in that fresh, salty air).

Lounge on the beach.

Downtown Charleston is just a short drive from the area's three popular beaches: Folly Beach, Isle of Palms Beach, and Sullivan's Island Beach. Each has soft, white sand and a distinct feel: Folly has lively bars and restaurants just steps from the shores, Sullivan's Island — my personal favorite — is more residential, and Isle of Palms is somewhere in between, with easy public access via Isle of Palms County Park.

Related: The 13 Best Beaches in South Carolina

For Groups of Friends 

Hit the links at acclaimed golf courses..

Thanks to the South Carolina Lowcountry's comfortable weather and fantastic courses (many offer beautiful views of the marsh and water), you can golf year-round in and near Charleston. One of the area's most famous courses is the stunning Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort.

Paddle around on a kayak tour.

Take a kayak tour through the marshes and creeks around Charleston to get close to the area's incredible marine and wildlife. Charleston Outdoor Adventures is one of several tour operators in the area — just don't forget your sunscreen.

Walk the Ravenel Bridge.

Charleston's famous bridge connecting Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, has a path for pedestrians. You can walk across its entirety — or just a section — for sweeping views of the harbor (if you're not afraid of heights).

Hop around the rooftop bars.

Get a new perspective on the Holy City — and see the many church steeples that give it that nickname — with a visit to one (or a few) of the rooftop bars around Charleston. Options include Fiat Lux at the Hotel Bennett (my favorite), Citrus Club at The Dewberry, Pavilion Bar at the Market Pavilion Hotel, The Rooftop at The Vendue, and Élevé at the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston.

Related: 15 Best Hotels in Charleston

Related Articles

Michael Stavrinakis | Mes Travel | Charleston, SC

Top 20 Charleston Travel Tips and Tricks to Know Before You Visit

Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the best places I’ve lived. And I spent years bouncing around like a tumbleweed. As of last year, Charleston, SC, is where I have lived the longest since I lived at my parents’ full-time in high school.

Like a lot of other people that live here, I visited a couple times, loved it, and decided to move here. The steady influx of outsiders has changed the traditional delineation of Charleston society between locals and outsiders, or people “from off”.

There are still some Charleston travel tips and tricks to know before you step foot here to help you blend-in. Follow the below (and be conscientious) and you’ll avoid being one of those tourists that people here hate.

Table of Contents

Read on for tips to fit in and experience the Charleston area more like a local. All advice is from someone living here. If you are thinking about moving to Charleston, SC , be sure to read my list of things I wish someone had told me before I moved here.

18 Top Charleston Travel Tips from Someone Who Lives Here

To start this article, I brain-dumped everything I could think of. After that, I procrastinated from actually writing by categorizing my Charleston travel tips.

First, some general Charleston, SC, society and community tips.

1) Charleston is more casual than you’re expecting, though manners are expected

Flip flops are not frowned-upon here. While sneakers won’t get you into more than a few King Street bars and clubs, you’ll go pretty far with a nice pair of shorts and a polo shirt. In the warm months, anyway, of which there are a lot.

That said, you’ll be rewarded for your politeness. Throw a nice, “yes, ma’am” or “no sir”, and Charlestonians will be a lot more helpful to you than the guy who brusquely behaves as if he’s the most important person in the city.

Curious how polite Charlestonians get across their distaste without being blunt? The most common tactic includes saying terms like, “bless your heart”. A classic Charleston insult will leave those untrained to not realize they’ve been slighted until a good 10 minutes later.

You’ve been warned.

2) People here are just friendly. They have no ulterior motive. Embrace it.

I moved here from the New York City area. There, you typically only talk to people you’ve gone out with for the night.

Adapting to the fact that strangers are legitimately being warm and friendly was a transition. But when someone wishes you a great day, they genuinely mean it.

Don’t get nervous if a stranger on the street makes eye contact and smiles. They’re not trying to hit on you, and you’re not about to get mugged. At least while you’re in Charleston, throw cynicism aside and reciprocate!

3) There are a few topics that may be uncomfortable to bring up with strangers and acquaintances

I grew up in a WASP-y New England household that followed the traditional rule of taboo topics with non-blood relatives:

The above topics are good ones to avoid here as well.

Charleston is one of the most progressive cities in the Carolinas (it vies with Asheville, NC, for the title). That said, you still don’t necessarily want to get into a heated conversation about Trump or what church you attend with a stranger, do you?

A couple other topics to throw on the list here include the following:

It’s been 150 years since the end of the War Between the States (to quote a local, as the Civil War was definitely not civil). And the South, including Charleston, is still grappling with a past that was ugly for most of its inhabitants. Ask too many questions, and most locals will start to get uncomfortable.

There are some great places to get all your questions answered, though. The former Slave Market and McLeod Plantation are 2 historic sites managed by the city of Charleston. Both are more focused on the African-American experience than the storied white planters’ lives.

As Charleston’s economy diversifies, this question isn’t as taboo as it used to be. It stems from recent days where everyone who lived in Charleston worked in hospitality, especially food and bev. It was just a boring topic for most, more than anything.

4) Be careful behind the wheel

There’s really no way around it: people here are scary drivers. As the majority of people here learned to drive somewhere else, no one seems to know what to do in relation to others on the road. Or maybe defensive driving is just a foreign concept here.

Either way, driving can feel like dealing with anarchic mayhem.

Avoid driving whenever there’s any sort of inclement weather: rain and snow especially.

Drivers here also seem to sit in the passing lane for some reason. In case you’re wondering, it’s illegal here too, but people either don’t learn that in driving school or don’t care. On the plus side, the lane farthest from the passing lane in a 3-lane highway usually flows the easiest.

5) A Southern city, Charleston society does still revolve around church

I remember learning in a study of Southern Baptism in college that the South largely only has one center for community activity: the church.

And I would say that applies in the Holy City.

Even if you’re visiting for a long weekend, checking out a local church congregation is often a pleasant way to get a more local experience. Avoid some of the older churches that feature more traditional locals that aren’t welcoming to newcomers. Instead, check-out some of the open and affirming churches, or just one that’s used to visitors (and young people):

• Circular Congregational (where I go, open and affirming, and they offer free tours after most 11 am services)
• Unitarian Church in Charleston (open and affirming)
• Grace Church Charleston (open and affirming)
• City Church

There are also Catholic churches throughout Charleston if you’re Catholic. St. John the Baptist downtown is a beautiful cathedral. Non-Catholics are welcome to attend, and you can follow along with the standing up, sitting down, and kneeling cycles. Just be sure not to go up for communion if you’re not confirmed. Or cross your arms and put your hands on your chest and the priest will bless you instead.

And now, on to Charleston travel tricks and tips specific to Downtown Charleston :

6) Ditch your car when you’re downtown

Charleston, SC, is one of those few Southern cities that developed before the advent of cars. As such, everything downtown is easy to reach walking. I can walk from my house up by Hampton Park all the way to White Point Gardens and the Battery in about an hour. Pretty much everything is an easy walk from everything else.

7) Free parking is easier to find here than most American cities

You may need to drive around the block, or be ready to add another 5-10 minutes walking to your trip, but free parking is free parking. Pay attention to the signs, though, as they all clearly say how long you can leave your car in a spot before you get a ticket. And the city is a stickler for those rules, so ignore them at your own risk.

If you don’t feel like playing the find free parking game, including remembering to move your car every 1 to 4 hours depending on what neighborhood you’ve parked, just find a garage. Almost all parking garages downtown are owned and managed by the city, so they’re inexpensive as far as downtown parking garages go.

I like a challenge, though.

8) Know how to pronounce streets before you ask someone for directions

I told a friend about this rule, and he snorted and told me how pretentious I sounded.

But it’s not about being pretentious, it’s about knowing what the heck someone just said to you when they’re giving you directions.

Below are a list of attractions and street names that largely stem from French Huguenot family names. The Huguenots that settled here eventually lost their language and distinct identity in the community. But the names survived. They’re just not pronounced in the French, or American way.

They’re distinctly Charlestonian.

That said, there’s some disagreement even among Charlestonians as to proper pronunciation. Whatever.

• Barre: BARE – ee (street)
• Beaufain: BYOO – fain (street)
• Clemson: CLEM – zun (local university)
• Gaillard: GILLY – yard (performing arts center, an old lady actually yelled at a friend for mispronouncing this one)
• Hasell: HAY – zul (street)
• Huger: u – GEE (street)
• Legare: le – GREE (street)
• McLeod: muh – CLOUD (plantation)
• Prioleau: PRAY – low (street)
• Sumter: SUMP • tur (monument and town)
• Vanderhorst: VAN – dross (street)

9) Take a tour or two, but be sure to explore on your own

Walking tours are informative, and carriage tours cover a lot of ground in an hour. But you’ll never get a feel for the city just by taking a tour. Get lost downtown. The parts of Charleston you’ll be focusing on are all very safe, so wandering around is encouraged.

10) Don’t stand in line for any of your meals

I don’t care how many New York Times articles were written about a restaurant, or how many ads in the airport you’ve seen. There are so many great options here in Charleston, it’s a waste of time to go anywhere with a line. Feel smug about those tourists standing, waiting, in front of those famous restaurants on Market and Meeting street. Instead, continue on to any of the fantastic Charleston restaurants scattered nearby and throughout the area.

The only downtown Charleston restaurant I can think of that’s actually worth a wait time is Hominy Grill. They don’t take advanced reservations, which explains the typical wait for brunch. But that place is amazing.

11) Watch out for flooding

If you’re in downtown Charleston, flooding is a real thing. The city was settled for its prime location on the water, not for how high above sea level it is.

No matter what anyone says, flooding in downtown Charleston is getting worse. And a perfect storm of a lot of rain coinciding with high tide consistently means driving through flood waters.

Swing by the Preservation Society of Charleston shop on King and Queen Streets and find a map in the store. The one I’m thinking of shows the streets of Charleston overlaid on the natural layout of the peninsula. Look it over and take note of streets and neighborhoods that are built on filled-in marsh, or that used to be creeks and streams.

You could also skip that and check out The History Behind Flooding in Charleston, South Carolina story map in the NOAA GeoPlatform Map Gallery.

My recommendation sounds more like a scavenger hunt, though.

Well-known downtown streets and areas that used to be streams and now consistently flood include but are not limited to:

• Market Street (they keep people from parking here now, after too many cars suffered serious damage from flooding seawater)
• Water Street (the name should give that one away)
• Around Colonial Lake
• Between East Bay Street and the Charleston harbor
• Calhoun Street near MUSC

Most of King Street follows a ridge that is the highest point of the peninsula if you’re out when it starts to flood. That said, Huger and King Street is typically the first place to flood in my neighborhood when it’s really bad.

12) Leave Bill Murray alone

Yes, Bill Murray spends a lot of time in Charleston.

And he’s invested in more than a few businesses in the area, including:

• The Charleston Riverdogs baseball team that plays at the Joseph P Riley baseball stadium
• Harold’s Cabin, a downtown Charleston casual restaurant in my neighborhood
• Rutledge Cab Company

And pretty much everyone who lives in Charleston has a story of a run-in with him at some point. And the stories of him crashing weddings, photo opportunities, and whatnot are all (mostly) true.

But leave the guy alone.

He’s just trying to live his life, like everyone else around here. Try to empathize and think about how annoying it must be to get constantly recognized and asked for autographs or selfies.

If he starts talking to you or gets in your photo, fantastic. But don’t force it. It’ll make for a better story, anyway.

And on to the rest of the Charleston area, including the nearby sea islands and beach towns near Charleston . Because there’s a lot more to the area than just downtown Charleston.

13) Don’t buy sweetgrass baskets in the City Market, or even downtown

The sweetgrass baskets for sale are beautiful, and have an interesting history. Enslaved Africans brought to what is now the United States carried the tradition of making baskets of grass from West Africa. These people found similar materials in Lowcountry marshes and continued the tradition here.

But sweetgrass basket sellers in the Historic Charleston City Market have to pay for that prime real estate, and they pass that cost onto their buyers. Head across the bridge to Mount Pleasant and drive along Route 17 towards Georgetown. You’ll pass a long stretch of sellers with more variety and better prices.

14) There’s so much more to Charleston than the peninsula

Most tourists come, explore downtown for the weekend, and leave. But there are so many more unique aspects to Charleston and the Lowcountry that make it so special.

Getting around once you’re off the peninsula is harder if you don’t have a car, but renting a car to explore the area is well worth it.

And bicycling around the Charleston area is pretty easy. Because there’s not a ton of elevation. You’ll still need to watch out for all those crazy drivers.

Cross the Ravenel Bridge over the Cooper River to Mount Pleasant to explore:

• Old Town Mount Pleasant
• Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens
• The Pitt Street Bridge
• Sullivan’s Island
• Isle of Palms

Or cross the Ashley River to check out:

• The Avondale neighborhood in West Ashley
• James Island
• Folly Beach
• Johns Island
• Wadmalaw Island
• The Ashley River Road plantations: Magnolia Plantation , Drayton Hall , Middleton Place

Or go north to spend some time in:

• Park Circle
• Or the parks further north of town

Speaking of which…

15) There are a lot of bridges here. Go over them whenever you can.

A colleague mentioned the other day that one of her favorite parts of living in Charleston is being able to see the water so often. And she’s right: even just a typical commute to work offers splendid views from bridges of Charleston harbor, or any of the rivers that separate various sea islands from each other and the mainland.

There’s also more than one bridge to nowhere here in Charleston. If you have the time and the transportation, check out the one on the Upper Peninsula of Downtown Charleston. The more well-known (and arguably more romantic point of interest) is the Pitt Street Bridge in Old Town Mount Pleasant.

16) There are more beaches than just Folly Beach

For some reason, Folly Beach and Isle of Palms are the most well-known beaches near Charleston for tourists. And on those beaches, tourists seem to think they need to cluster at certain points.

But all the area beaches are public. Usually parking is the hassle, but even that’s not that bad. Just make sure that you find a spot that keeps your tires off of the tarmac. And that there’s not a “No Parking” sign or something like that, obviously.

17) Charleston gets stupid expensive during event weekends

Unless you’re coming for an event, avoid Charleston like the plague during them. Check out a list of annual events in the article regarding the best time to visit Charleston . Don’t get me wrong, the events are fun to attend and they’re typically at the best non-beach weather times of the year here. But hotel rates especially go through the roof during those weekends.

And locals get tired of you asking to crash on their couch.

Just saying.

18) Is this your first weekend visit to Charleston? Don’t visit Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter is big for history buffs, especially anyone interested in Civil War history. And even if you’re not into the history of it, the ride to and from Fort Sumter on the ferry is a pleasant and relaxing way to see the Charleston harbor.

Between the ride out to Fort Sumter, the hour or so scrambling around rocks, and the ride back to Charleston, you’ve got the majority of an afternoon eaten up right there. And there are so many other things to experience in the short time you’re here.

Fort Sumter’s (probably) not going anywhere. Go see it on your second visit, and check-out Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island instead. Then, you can head straight to the beach afterwards.

19) Don’t want to drop a fortune visiting plantations? Find some inexpensive alternatives

The plantations are worth a visit. Each of the famous ones are worth the money to visit once:

• Magnolia Plantation
• Drayton Hall
• Middleton Place

Except it’s not absolutely necessary, if you want to save some funds for your next visit.

Instead, check out some Charleston plantations run by the city of Charleston or the National Parks service that are much cheaper to visit:

• McLeod Plantation
• Charles Pinckney National Historic Site

That said, you get what you pay for. I quite like McLeod, personally.

20) Leave the wildlife alone (especially the gators)

The Lowcountry is part of a huge biosphere that includes the coastal plains of the United States. It’s rapidly disappearing, and enjoying any number of Charleston outdoor activities can help you get a glimpse of the fascinating ecosystems that make up our area.

But please, leave the wildlife alone. Animals that get fed by people often lose their ability to find their own food, and risk starvation when that source is cut-off.

Even worse, gators should have no reason to get accustomed to humans.

Because they’re scary.

Speaking of which, don’t get close to alligators. They may not move as you inch closer, but they can run faster than you if and when they decide to grab you.

Gotcha. Now What?

Hopefully this list of Charleston travel tips will help you feel more prepared for your visit.

If you want someone to tell you what to do next to plan your visit to Charleston (you’re welcome), start with:

• Figuring out how to get here
• Find a place to stay in Charleston , be it a bed and breakfast , hotel , or vacation rental
• Check out the best things to do in Charleston and the Lowcountry
• Decide on what restaurants you definitely want to experience. Some of the most famous ones book up well in advance, like FIG and Husk.
• Plan a day trip or two near Charleston if you’re planning on being here more than a few days. The Lowcountry (and inland South Carolina) is delightfully unique.

And you should be good to go.

Besides packing, obviously.

Welcome in advance to Charleston!

Related Hipster Charleston Guides You May Enjoy:

• The Best Time to Visit Charleston, SC: Top Choices
• Charleston Travel Tips
• 7 of the Top Bakeries in Charleston, SC
• A Hipster’s Guide to Park Circle, in North Charleston, SC

Related Posts

What to Look for at Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens

Folly Beach Hotels: Where to Relax & Unwind in Paradise

French Quarter Inn: Charleston’s Version of Old World Charm

About the author.

An avid traveler, Colin Pearson loves to settle in an area and discover every little bit of that spot. And having lived on various places on three continents, Charleston, South Carolina, is one of his favorite places he's ever lived.

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Charleston travel blog — the fullest charleston sc travel guide for a great trip to charleston city for first-timers.

The beautiful port city of Charleston is South Carolina state’s second largest city and has been rated as America’s No. 1 city for five consecutive years by Southern Living magazine and once you visit here, you will understand at why is that. According to 2018 census data, this city has a population of about 140.000 people. This picturesque city is not only beautiful, gentle, peaceful but also full of fun and lots of things to do from shopping, music, dining to history, culture, … So, what to do and how to visit Charleston? Let’s check out our Charleston travel blog (Charleston SC blog, Charleston SC travel blog, Charleston blog) with the fullest Charleston travel guide (Charleston SC guide, Charleston SC travel guide) to clear the answer!

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You can immerse yourself in the history and majestic beauty of the port city of Charleston. It attracts visitors from all over the world with spectacular views of the unique architectural church, charming cobblestone streets at Charleston Historic District. Moreover, if you love nature, the forests will give you a great sense of relaxation.

Only when you set foot in Charleston and feel with all your heart about a green, clean, beautiful, charming and peaceful city, you can unsderstand the reason why this city is so loved. From the skillfully manicured gardens at Middleton Place to the unbelievably beautiful views of Battery Quarter or French Quarter, or of Waterfront Park or a spooky excursion at night that leaves a lasting impression in memories of the people who came here.

Charleston travel guide (Charleston sc guide): Overview of charleston

Americans have passed on a joke: “10 years old wants to live in Palm Springs, 20 years old moves to Las Vegas, 30 years old must go to Chicago, 40 years old resides in New York, 50 years old thinks about Seattle, and over 60 years old ? – Charleston is the perfect choice.”

Charleston is one of the major cities in the United States with an outstanding economy. Moreover, Charleston is loved by the extremely developed tourism industry. With a long history and rich culture, it has become a solid foundation to help the city rise to the top of America. Every year, many tourists from all over the world come here to visit and relax.

Referring to developed cities, we often think of high-rise building or busy traffic system. However, coming to Charleston, you will be able to see a rare sight in history. The beauty of Charleston is bold classic with colorful houses lined up close together. In addition, the city also looks peaceful with no traffic congestion or air pollution. Because of this specialness that has brought a romantic Charleston that makes everyone want to live here.

Peaceful but not boring. Charleston city has a lot of food shops, restaurants serving a variety of Asian and European dishes, cafes, breweries, fresh fruit and vegetable markets … all of which are satisfied for needs of the people and tourists coming here.

Charleston SC guide: When to visit?

Charleston is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with mild, windy winters and oppressive, hot summers. Winter is not too cold with snow but very little, the average temperature of the year typically varies from 43°F to 89°F (6 – 33 degrees Celsius). Summer is quite cool compared to other states, average temperature is only about 30 degrees Celsius. However, summer is a time of frequent thunderstorms, so there will be many inconveniences. Spring and autumn are considered the best time to visit Charleston.

July is the hottest month of the year with an average temperature of about 32 – 33 degrees Celsius. January is the coldest month with an average temperature of 6 degrees Celsius. Each season in Charleston has its own characteristic featuring via natural scenery and cultural and culinary activities. So, you can visit Charleston all year round.

Charleston is not as dull as many people think. In winter, you can try delicious grilled scallops are served with fine wine. In spring, jasmine and magnolia blossom are in full bloom, when families often have a party in the garden, watching the flowers, enjoying wine and singing happily. The summer has the international art program Spoleto, while the autumn marks with the music festival.

Flower Festival

The Charleston Flower Festival in March every year is one of the most exciting spring events in America. This is the time when hundreds of flowers bloom, creating impressive scenes. Participating in the festival, visitors will admire the beauty of flowers such as azaleas, camellia, rose, jasmine, … Together with the chilly atmosphere and romantic scenery of spring, visitors will be experienced a wonderful land of America.

Charleston SC travel guide: How to get to Charleston?

From Vietnam, you can fly to Charleston with airlines such as Air China (Beijing and New York), Japan Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, ANA (Seoul – Atlanta), EVA Air and China Airlines (Taipei and New York) … Among them, United Airlines is the largest airline in the United States and is the most chosen by many people to book tickets, depending on each airline and the time that the fare will be different. The airfare to Charleston ranges from $516 to $602 depending on different ticket class.

Charleston blog: Transportation in Charleston

The main means of transportation in Charleston are bicycle, bus and taxi. To traveling to more distant locations you can choose the subway. Calling a car as well as getting around the city is very easy so you don’t need to worry. Besides, the traffic system is strict, well-planned, so there is no traffic jam. The tourist streets of the city are always clear and airy. However, if you use public transportation such as buses or subway, or water taxi but you have to walk to the attractions.

In addition, Uber, Lyft services are also very popular. This is a good way to traveling around the city and to get nearby places.

Charleston SC travel guide: Best places to visit and top things to do

Magnolia plantation and gardens.

The most special garden is The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Only about 20 miles from downtown Charleston, this place becomes a picnic spot for locals. The Magnolia was founded in 1676, opened to visitors in 1870 and is the oldest public garden in America.

You can admiring the gardens – bloom all year round at The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens – and see everything from camellias to azaleas. There is also an old plantation house, giving visitors a clearer picture of life in the 19th century. A tram ride tour will take you through wetlands, forests and marshes, where you can spot out crocodiles, gibbons, herons and turtles. This is the hottest garden in America.

Address: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States Hours: 8:30AM–4:30PM

Fort Sumter National Monument

Fort Sumter National Monument is a civil war fort that has been preserved until now and has become a hot tourist destination. The fortress with its majestic beauty, strong standing in the middle of the sea, creates an impressive scene. Coming here, visitors will hear American historical stories and admire the ancient beauty. At the fortress, there is an American flag and statues of heroes who have sacrificed for the country. To get here you have to buy a boat ticket to reach the fort. Seeing the great wonder lying on the sea will definitely be a great experience in your trip.

Address: South Carolina 29412, United States Opened: 1829 Hours: Open 24 hours

Joe Riley Waterfront Park

One of Charleston’s tourist hot spots is Waterfront Park. The 5-hectare park is located next to the Cooper River, bearing a romantic beauty. Waterfront Park is divided into many different areas, convenient for sightseeing. In the center of the park built a fountain overlooking the river, adding to the romance.

Address: Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 6AM–9PM

South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is also a favorite spot in Charleston. It’s home to more than 10.000 different species that are cared for and preserved. Coming to the aquarium, you will be overwhelmed by the immense space with many species of sea creatures swimming behind the glass. If you travel with your kids, this is a must-visit place.

The South Carolina Aquarium regularly hosts exhibitions, so you can come and see. Not only that, this place also built a large-scale sea turtle care center. After being raised, turtles will be released to a local beach and they will be returned to the ocean.

Address: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Opened: May 19, 2000 Hours: 9AM–5PM

Walking tour

The best way to get a deeper understanding of a new destination is to take a walk around, and the city of Charleston has a tour for the hikers.

The Charleston Strolls – History Tours (Bulldog Tours) are the pieces of the puzzle that make up a fascinating city of Charleston. While walking in the sun, you will have the opportunity to take a closer look at the impressive architecture of this place. And more surprisingly, you will see beautiful alleys hidden behind rows of tall buildings, garden houses, churches and many ancient American places. If you don’t like walking, you can register for a bus tour or a horse cart tour…

Take a stroll through the Charleston City Market

On your first day in Charleston, you should wake up early and head to the city center to drop by Charleston City Market which was established in 1807 – a Charleston traditional market and one of the oldest public markets in the country.

It opens at 9:30 a.m. every day and spans three outdoor stalls, as well as a great hall. You will find all kinds of unique treasures here, from paintings and photographs, to textiles and clothing, to food and wine…

There are also plenty of breakfast options in and around the market, including Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit , located inside the Great Hall, where you can enjoy homemade cookies, and more.

Address: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 9:30AM–6PM/Friday; Saturday: 9:30AM–10:30PM

Bulldog Tour

After you’ve explored the City Market, it’s time to explore the city. And there’s no better way to do that than join a tour called the Bulldog Tour.

Named after the mascot of the city’s famous military university – The Citadel, Bulldog Tours has over 70 years of experience in providing tours for all tastes, whether you’re curious about the history of the city or any other things of the city.

Angel Oak Tree

The short drive to Angel Oak Tree, located on nearby John Island is definitely an experience not to be missed. This is one of the most popular attractions in Charleston. The unique and giant Angel Oak Tree is 1.500 years old oak tree and is believed to be one of the oldest living plants in the country.

Address: 3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455, United States Hours: 9AM–5PM/Sunday: 1–5PM

Explore Charleston on the water and enjoy a meal on the boat

Don’t like the roads? Rest assured, there are many ways to explore the city of Charleston on the water. Get on a boat to watch the sunset and dolphins or a romantic wine tasting cruise in the sunset. And if you like challenge and action, let kayaking off the shores of Shem Creek and you’ll see dolphins and sometimes whales.

Although the city is filled with great places to enjoy a meal, but many travelers enjoy the meal on the boat. SpiritLine Cruises offers a luxurious dining experience on a cruise, including a 2 and a half hour cruise, the meal includes three or four courses that prepared right on board using fresh local ingredients, a full bar, live music and wonderful sunset.

Relax at the beaches

The most interesting and impressive of all is paddling through creeks and swamps while breathing the sea-smelling air. There are great beaches in Charleston like the Isle of Palms, which are for family vacations. Located about 12 miles from the city center of Charleston, this island is nested between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal waterway, offering great views of the ocean as well as engaging experiences such as swimming, walking along the beach, kayaking, boating, … While Folly Beach is more laid-back for young single travelers.

As one of a destination of the city of Charleston that visitors cannot miss is Edisto Beach, an ideal place to hold a picnic and watch the sunset.

Charleston Tea Garden

The Charleston Tea plantation is located about 20 miles to the south of Charleston, South Carolina on the island of Wadmalaw. Owned by the Bigelow Tea Company, the company grows tea and sold under the brand names of American Classic Tea and the Charleston Tea Plantation from the Camellia Sinensis factory.

Address: 6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, United States Hours: 10AM–4PM/Sunday: 12–4PM

Aiken-Rhett House Museum

Aiken – Rhett House was built in 1820 and almost unchanged since 1858 and turned into a museum later. This is the place where visitors can admire and explore ancient architecture, which have been preserved for hundreds of years, one of Charleston’s most stately mansion.

Address: 48 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States Hours: 10AM–5PM

Charleston travel blog: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• French Quarter Inn , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $255/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Belmond Charleston Place , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $329/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Harbourview Inn , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $219/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Andrew Pinckney Inn , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $102/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Town & Country Inn and Suites , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $102/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Charleston SC guide: What and where to eat?

Seafood at Magnolias restaurant

Going to the sea but not eat seafood is a pity. Moreover, the culinary culture in the city of Charleston today is overheating and Magnolias restaurant played a huge role in the city’s culinary renaissance, which has been going on over the past decade. The restaurant Magnolias showed Charleston’s culinary style was influenced by South Carolina’s coast natives, Georgians and British, French, and African immigrants. Try fried chicken and sausage sauce, Charleston crab cake and green tomatoes sautéed with caramelized onion powder.

Address: 185 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 11:30AM–9PM

Street food at Marion Square

Well don’t forget, every Saturday morning, lots of farmers, and food vendors will head to the beautiful Marion Square in Charleston Farmers Market (Address: 329 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States). I love going there early when the stalls are just set up, with the aroma of coffee and culinary flavors spreading in the air.

All farm produce at the market must be grown in South Carolina; except banana! It’s great to wander, sip, and sample local’s favorite dishes like ice blended and jelly on toast. If you are traveling with your family, this market is also very interesting. And there are many stalls all over the place, and local craftsmen sell everything from jewelry to hats.

FIG restaurant

Charleston has also become a gourmet culinary paradise. FIG, one of the city’s most notable restaurants, was named one of America’s best restaurants in 2016 by Eater. The chef of this famous restaurant, Mike Lata, was also nominated the James Beard Award for Chef Excellence this year.

Address: 232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 5–10:30PM/Sunday: Closed

King Street

The north of the city also becomes a culinary venue. According to Travel + Leisure, the King Street is also famous for a variety of eateries, venues with fine cocktails and excellent hotels.

Hominy Grill

Going a little further to the north you will find a popular breakfast spot called Hominy Grill. Here you will find dishes with the traditional and signature flavors of Charleston such as tiger prawns, fried chicken and catfish.

Address: 207 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

Texax BBQ is the famous barbecue dish in Charleston. For a delicious barbecue, the chef has marinated the necessary spices and grilled at high heat. When you eat, you will feel the aroma and richness of the meat. Along with the barbecue is grilled ribs that are also extremely attractive. You will be served with vegetables and sauces to make the meal more perfect and full.

You can try Texas BBQ at Lewis Barbecue (Address: 464 N Nassau St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States/Hours: 11AM-9PM).

Apple pie is a familiar dish on the American dining table. Traveling here you should also enjoy this special cake for a new flavor. Round shape apple pie with eye-catching motifs will attract you at first sight. Plus, the cake has a mild aroma and a sweet taste that melting in your mouth.

Charleston SC travel guide: Shopping

If you come to Charleston and want to shopping, let go to King Street paradise, where there are many prominent fashion stores with all brands in the world. You can find everything you need without having to fly to New York to find.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Charleston you can refer to

• Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride
• Charleston: 90-Minute Historic City Highlights Tour
• Charleston Harbor: Luxury Dinner Cruise
• Charleston: Magnolia Plantation Tour and Transport
• Charleston: 1-Hour Carriage Tour of the Historic District
• Charleston: Historical Walking Tour
• Charleston: Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl
• Charleston: Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
• Charleston: Daytime or Sunset Historic Harbor Cruise
• Charleston Harbor: Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise

Above is the fullest Charleston SC travel guide. We hope this guide will help you planning and have a wonderful trip to the coastal city and one of most beloved destinations in the US. Happy traveling!

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Charleston, SC   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sam Antonio Photography | Getty Images

Why Go To Charleston, SC

Centuries-old mansions, Spanish moss-draped trees, spooky cemeteries , cobblestone alleys: in a word, Charleston. As you walk the gas lamp-lit streets at night and pass horse-drawn carriages, you just might think you've traveled back in time. But just because this South Carolina city is proud to celebrate its heritage doesn't mean it's stuck in the past. Charleston boasts innovative restaurants, interesting shops, contemporary art galleries and the world-class Spoleto Festival USA. 

History pervades almost every aspect of the Holy City, from the majestic homes-turned-museums to the landmarks that promote the city's role in United States history. History buffs can visit Fort Sumter to learn about the Civil War, Middleton Place to hear stories about the plantation owners and the enslaved Africans who worked for them, and Emanuel AME Church to see where Martin Luther King Jr. once delivered a historic speech. Meanwhile, shopaholics looking for locally made goods should peruse the Charleston City Market where they will find sweetgrass baskets woven in traditional Gullah design, among other unique souvenirs. When you're ready for a day at the beach, the city's got you covered there, too. Several neighboring beach towns, including  Sullivan's Island ,  Isle of Palm  and  Folly Beach , offer sun, sand and gentle waves.

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• # 1 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in South Carolina
• # 3 in Best East Coast Vacation Spots

See All 10 Rankings

Best of Charleston, SC

Best hotels in charleston, sc.

• # 1 in The Charleston Place
• # 2 in Wentworth Mansion
• # 3 in Hotel Bennett

Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC

• # 1 in The Battery
• # 2 in Charleston Walking Tours
• # 3 in Waterfront Park

Popular Tours

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

(7507 reviews)

from $ 50.00

Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

(247 reviews)

from $ 87.60

Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

(1808 reviews)

from $ 39.22

Charleston, SC Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Charleston is from March to May or from September to November when temperatures are mild – but not stifling. Hotel rates, however, will be high, especially around Easter. Also, the city will be thick with crowds "ooh-ing" and "ahh-ing" at the blooming magnolia trees, the Southern fried food and their tour guide's ghost stories. Steer clear of high prices and tourist swarms by visiting in the late fall or early winter.

Weather in Charleston, SC

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Take it slow You're in the South now – life moves at a slower pace. To enjoy an authentic Southern experience, you should take it easy too.

Take to the streets Charleston is known for its excellent (albeit decadent) Southern food. Burn some calories by strolling to dinner or taking a  walking tour .

Don't forget the sunscreen Summer here is hot, hot, hot. The sun scorches and the humidity can be suffocating. Lather on sunscreen, wear your shades and hydrate.

Consider a tour  A great way to get a feel for this city and all its charm is to  take a tour . 

How to Save Money in Charleston, SC

Visit in the winter  You might score a lodging deal by traveling in the offseason, and you'll definitely see fewer tourists. What's more, winter temperatures are hardly inhospitable – they hover between 40 and 60 degrees.

Stay at a bed-and-breakfast  Charleston is full of charming B&Bs and many of them are cheaper than the city's brand-backed  hotels . Plus, you'll likely enjoy extra perks like complimentary breakfasts and evening happy hours.

Make lunch reservations  Get the most bang for your buck by making lunch reservations – rather than dinner ones – at the most expensive restaurants. Many eateries offer reduced-price midday menus.

Culture & Customs

Consider dressing up a little if you don't want to stick out as a tourist in Charleston. Residents have a different take on casual; women wear skirts and dresses while you'll see many men dressed in khakis and polo shirts.

While you're in town, you will also get a glimpse into Gullah culture. Gullah people are residents of low country South Carolina whose ancestors were brought to Charleston in the transatlantic slave trade, and they have preserved their African culture and heritage over time. Their tradition has influenced much of Charleston cuisine, from the food (red rice, okra soup, gumbo) to the "Bruh Rabbit" folk stories (slave fables starring a devilish rabbit) to the songs ("Michael Row the Boat Ashore"). If you're shopping for souvenirs, keep an eye out for the Gullah's handcrafted sweetgrass baskets, which you can find at the Charleston City Market . If you're interested in learning more about Gullah language and customs, consider signing up for a guided tour. Gullah Tours earns high marks from travelers, who applaud the tour guide's vast knowledge of Charleston's Black history.

What to Eat

Charleston is a top foodie destination in its own right. Even if you're not in town for one of the city's culinary events (like the Charleston Wine + Food Festival or Charleston Restaurant Week), you'll still get a chance to sample some low country cuisine at any one of the city's top restaurants.

Travelers and locals alike heap praise on Husk and Magnolias for their contemporary Southern menus and attentive service. Favorite dishes at Magnolias include the down south egg roll, the buttermilk fried chicken breast and the shellfish over grits. On King Street, you'll find locals and tourists headed to Rodney Scott's Whole Hog BBQ to sample ribs and pork sandwiches. For some true low country soul food, try traveler-approved Bertha's Kitchen . Poogan's Porch is a great place for brunch and is set in a charming, restored Victorian house, but if you're in the mood for more casual breakfast or coffee spots, consider The Daily or Second State Coffee . 

Of course, Charleston's location near the ocean makes it a great spot for fresh seafood, and restaurants like Gillie's Seafood , Nana's Seafood & Soul Uptown and 167 Raw – an oyster bar that's popular for its oyster selection and lobster rolls – will deliver. During peak tourist season, waiting for a table at one of these eateries can turn into a long night. If you already know where you'd like to dine while in Charleston, make reservations before you get into town. 

Another way to experience all the culinary delights Charleston has to offer is on a food tour . Many of the city's walking tours also incorporate food.

Along with its impressive food menus, Charleston also boasts a bevy of trendy drinking establishments worth checking out. The Gin Joint , The Belmont and The Rooftop Bar at Vendue are all praised watering holes to consider. Meanwhile, Bourbon N' Bubbles caters to a glamorous crowd.  

Downtown Charleston near the Historic District is generally safe and best known for its Southern hospitality. However, it's still a busy city and visitors should use common sense when exploring. Avoid walking alone at night (especially in the city's many alleyways) and keep valuables close to you.

Getting Around Charleston, SC

The best way to get around Charleston is on foot. That said, you'll probably enjoy the use of a car too. You can rent some wheels at Charleston International Airport (CHS) – or bring your own – and leave it parked in one of the garages that pepper the city. Having a car is especially helpful if you're staying in the city outskirts or if you plan on indulging in some beach time. City buses and trolleys are available too, as are taxis. From the airport, which is located about 12 miles northwest of the downtown area, you can take a cab or shuttle bus. There is a $15 minimum charge for taxis departing from the airport. From the airport, there is also a shared shuttle bus that departs every 15 minutes and costs $15 per person. The price is lower than a taxi ride, but the trip will be longer due to the multiple stops the bus makes.

Waterfront Park is home to one of the city's most photographed sites: the pineapple fountain.

Explore More of Charleston, SC

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