Things to do in Charleston

Home to fun museums, aquariums, and leafy parks, Charleston is a great place to head with the family. Whether your kids love splashing in the sea or crawling around ghostly ruins and dungeons, there are plenty of things to do with children that will keep you all entertained.

Perfect for teaching valuable lessons on American history and culture, Charleston’s landmarks and historical sites are engaging for children. From Fort Sumter to Boone Hall and the Charleston Museum, your kids will have a blast learning about the Civil War and beyond.

The best things to do with kids in Charleston at a glance

The best thing to do with young kids in Charleston: The South Carolina Aquarium and the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry.

The best activity for teens in Charleston: Kayaking in Shem Creek.

The best free family-friendly experiences in Charleston: Waterfront Park, the Battery Promenade, and Hampton Park.

Beloved for its colorful downtown, richly historic streets, and attractions bursting with Southern spirit, Charleston makes for a delightful city break. Its center is packed with history and culture, from museums to a stellar dining scene. You’re also a stone’s throw from the coast, which boasts impressive beaches, trails, and boat excursions. If you’re looking for the best tourist attractions in Charleston, this list details the top sights.

Choose from family-friendly activities to enjoy with your children or artistic destinations that have put Charleston on the cultural map. You’ll get a heartwarming dose of South Carolina charm.

Charleston’s top places to visit at a glance

The top sights in Charleston for history lovers: Fort Sumter, Magnolia Plantation, and Historic Charleston City Market.

Best places to visit in Charleston with kids: South Carolina Aquarium and Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry.

The best places to go for art in Charleston: Gibbes Museum of Art and Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art.

Top Charleston attractions for nature lovers: Angel Oak Tree and Middleton Place.

Charleston has been one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the country over the last decade. Travelers from all over the world are drawn to Charleston in winter to escape colder weather, drool over the soul food, and take in some Southern history and hospitality. 

From the French Quarter to the old plantations up the Ashley River, there’s an incredible amount of things to do in Charleston during the winter, with the city and many of its historic institutions holding lovely holiday celebrations. 

With authentic culture, historic landmarks, and picturesque buildings, the best neighborhoods in Charleston are hard to choose between. Start your visit in Downtown, where many historical and cultural attractions exist. Then, soak up the atmosphere in the French Quarter, where you’ll find some of the best art galleries in the city. Escape the hustle and bustle in West Ashley's scenic natural areas, which are perfect for escaping the bustle of the city.

Whether looking for a lively atmosphere or a tranquil getaway, discover the best Charleston neighborhoods in this guide.