Charleston Travel Guide
Heading to Charleston? You can't miss the iconic Rainbow Row or the stately magnolias of Middleton Place, but this guide digs a little deeper to discover the charms of this South Carolina city.
Dive into the heart of the city's soulful rhythm by exploring hidden gems like the Gullah Geechee heritage sites, where stories of resilience and creativity echo through time.
Get a taste of Charleston's culinary scene with food tours that lead you to its food highlights, from crispy fried chicken to delicate shrimp and grits. Don't forget to stroll down King Street, where boutiques and art galleries beckon.
History and art buffs can geek out a museums like the Charleston Museum and the Gibbes Museum of Art. The Old Slave Mart Museum looks to the city's past and honors those who suffered at the hands of its founders.
Summer in Charleston? Lazy afternoons on Folly Beach and breezy walks along the Waterfront Park are the stuff dreams are made of. Traveling with little ones? The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry and the South Carolina Aquarium promise giggles and wonder.
Ready to embark on a journey that goes beyond the usual guidebooks? Let's explore Charleston.
Best places to visit in Charleston: top attractions you don't want to miss
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 its 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.
Insider guides
20 fun and unique things to do in Charleston
Whether you're looking for cool things to do or historical sights, Charleston has plenty to offer. This cultural mecca is home to some fine coastal excursions and active adventures for the whole family to enjoy. You can learn to paddleboard, kayak, and surf or simply relax as you cruise around Charleston.
Best museums in Charleston that are worth your time
Renowned as one of the country's oldest cities, Charleston has plenty of history and culture to offer. It even boasts America's oldest museum and attractions that have played a critical role in South Carolina and American history. From Civil War-era forts to Antebellum plantations, Charleston's museum scene includes a treasure trove of American history.
Best art museums in Charleston: discovering the city's artistic wonders
With its breezy coastal views and fabled historic streets, there's plenty to inspire art in Charleston. The city is home to some outstanding museums, including America's oldest museum. If you're a culture vulture in search of your next artistic discovery, check out these amazing art galleries in Charleston on your next vacation.
Charleston in summer: best things to do and see
With its coastal location and beautiful gardens, Charleston offers a fantastic range of summer activities. If you're traveling with the family, there's a fantastic range of outdoor activities to choose from. You can learn how to paddle board, kayak with dolphins, or simply bask on a sun-soaked sandy beach. Whichever you prefer, make the most of the heat with these sunscreen-essential activities.
Explore off the beaten path with Charleston's best hidden gems
If you've already visited the best museums and dined on Charleston's must-try cuisine, branch out with these hidden gems. There are plenty of interesting and alternative histories to explore in Charleston's center. From African American voices to strong women and ghostly tales, you'll find unique walking tours that offer a fresh perspective on Charleston.
Charleston’s unmissable landmarks and historical sights
Are you looking to explore Charleston's most iconic sites? This city is rich in history, with some of the oldest homes, buildings, and churches in the country. Discover the city's rich heritage in its museums, then visit the places that tell the story of its evolution. Explore the city's hidden gems and must-visit locations, including historic homes, former plantations, and military forts.
What to eat in Charleston: 12 must-try local delights
Nestled on the South Carolina coast, Charleston has a rich history to explore. Its culinary culture is also steeped in history and offers many delicious foods to try. Famous food staples span Gullah culinary traditions and Southern specialties. This is also a city that takes its seafood and fish seriously. Some examples of this are freshly-caught shrimp, blue crabs, oysters, and flounder. If you love the sea's bounty, you'll eat well in Downtown Charleston and along the delightful waterfront.
Charleston for couples: the most romantic things to do
Home to stunning gardens, coastal sunsets, and some of the South's finest food, Charleston is a mecca for lovebirds. This richly historic city has plenty of hidden places and charming views to enjoy with your sweetheart. From creative couples activities to adventurous anniversary ideas, there's plenty to help you celebrate your love.
Epic things to do in Charleston at night
With spectacular coastal vistas and a lively downtown district, Charleston comes to life at night. You can sample your way through South Carolina's great food and drink or toast your loved one on a sunset cruise. Just because the sun goes down doesn't mean the kitchen's closed. There are always plenty of fun things to do once the sun goes down.
10 Fun family-friendly activities 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.
Best places to visit in Charleston
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 its 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 opt for artistic destinations that have put Charleston on the cultural map. You'll get a heartwarming dose of South Carolina charm.