Things to do in Charleston
Activities, attractions and tours
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Most popular experiences in Charleston
Tours & day trips
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Charleston: Schooner Sailing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch
Private & custom tours
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Self-Guided "The French Quarter Charleston" Solo Walking Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
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Downtown Charleston Food Tour
Adventure & outdoor
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Charleston: Film & OBX Locations E-Bike Tour
Weddings & honeymoons
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Charleston: Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
What to do in Charleston
Popular places to visit
Port of Charleston
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.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Turtles, alligators and birds abound in this former plantation, now swampland, gardens, lakes and forest.
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.
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.
Rainbow Row
Find out about the history of Charleston when you take a trip to Rainbow Row. Make time for the churches and local tours in this walkable area.
Areas of Charleston
Charleston Historic District
Appreciate the authentic antebellum ambiance as you move between historical homes, museums, markets and waterfront parks on foot or by horse-drawn carriage tours.
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 and Charleston Music Hall.
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 Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site or Citadel Mall.
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 Colonial Lake are top sights worth seeing.
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 Dock Street Theater.
