Things to do in Charleston
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Most popular experiences in Charleston
History & culture
See all 165 activitiesOpens in new tabCharleston: Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
Adventure & outdoor
See all 8 activitiesOpens in new tabCharleston Shores Guided eBike Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 38 activitiesOpens in new tabDowntown Charleston Food Tour
Water activities
See all 14 activitiesOpens in new tabCharleston: Tour Pass with 40+ Attractions
Cruises & boat tours
See all 31 activitiesOpens in new tabCharleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting
Popular places to visit
Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal
Explore the waterfront in Charleston with a trip to Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.
College of Charleston
Named by Travel + Leisure as “America's Most Beautiful College Campus” in 2017, this South Carolina institution is engaging for visitors and beloved by students.
Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.
Waterfront Park
Stroll the city’s waterfront esplanades at sunset, when the afternoon sun begins to dip and the harbor is lit with soft colors.
South Carolina Aquarium
See an array of aquatic creatures, including an albino alligator, in underwater habitats ranging from salt marshes to coastal plains.
Fort Sumter
Enjoy an informative boat ride on picturesque Charleston Harbor and explore the grounds of one of America’s most significant Civil War-era forts and battle sites.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Turtles, alligators and birds abound in this former plantation, now swampland, gardens, lakes and forest.
The Citadel
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of The Citadel, during your travels in Charleston. Visit the area's churches or amble around its beautiful beaches.
Charleston Music Hall
Enjoy a show at Charleston Music Hall, a storied theater in Charleston. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the churches in the area.
Areas of Charleston
Downtown Charleston
Travelers to Downtown Charleston praise its fantastic nightlife. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal and Charleston Music Hall.
Charleston Historic District
The fantastic nightlife and popular shops are just a few highlights of Charleston Historic District. Make a stop by Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal or Charleston City Market while you're exploring the area.
West Ashley
West Ashley is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Citadel Mall or Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site.
French Quarter
Travelers to French Quarter praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal and Waterfront Park.
Cannonborough Elliotborough
While visiting Cannonborough Elliotborough, you might make a stop by sights like Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum.
Harleston Village
If you're spending some time in Harleston Village, Marion Square and The Riviera Theater are top sights worth seeing.