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70 Best Things to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is a city in South Carolina.

Founded in 1670, Charleston is known for having a deep and rich history.

During your time there, you will be immersed in a classic southern atmosphere of cobblestone streets, antebellum homes, and charming historic districts.

In addition to history, the city also offers fun, family-friendly activities, such as museums and unique city tours.

Enjoy romantic moments with a variety of sailing cruises on hand, as well as superb restaurants.

With so much to do and see, you can get your itinerary started by taking a look at the list below of the best things to do in Charleston.

Are you looking for things to do with friends in Charleston?

The city has plenty to offer for an entertaining night out, including comedy clubs, music venues, and lively bars.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Charleston (SC):

1. The Charleston Museum

The Charleston Museum, Charleston

Ehrlif | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Children: $5.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 360 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Open daily
  • Allow 2 – 3 hours
  • Founded in 1773

Begin your visit to Charleston with an immersive historical experience at The Charleston Museum.

Tour the Becoming Americans exhibit, and you will learn about how the city’s role shaped the American Revolution.

During your time in the exhibit, you will have the opportunity to see personal artifacts that belonged to soldiers.

In particular, get a close-up look at a rare cartridge box and items belonging to Francis Marion.

Also on hand is George Washington’s inaugural pin.

Afterward, peruse the Bunting Natural History Gallery.

While there, you can see fossils and animal specimens, such as the skeletons of a prehistoric crocodile and giant sloth.

In the Lowcountry History Hall, you will gain an understanding of the indigenous Native Americans of South Carolina, as well as enslaved African Americans and colonists.

The displays offer educational things to do in Charleston, where you will be able to see artifacts from the city’s settlement, slave badges, and cultivation tools.

Also available to view at the museum are weapons dating back to 1750, Civil War artifacts, and collections from around the world, including an Egyptian mummy.

What’s more, your kids will enjoy the Kidstory exhibit, which offers interactive displays.

2. Joseph Manigault House

Joseph Manigault House, Charleston

@Scpicture Project

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Children: $5.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 350 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Open daily
  • Allow 1 hour

After perusing the museum, make your way to the Joseph Manigault House.

The house is a pristine home from 1803 that showcases the antebellum style, as well as the wealthy urban life from the early 19th century.

Once owned by rice planters, the house features antique French, American, and English furnishings.

Moreover, you will view rooms that have been restored to their original color schemes.

Tour the Gate Temple and view the garden before perusing the outbuildings.

Included in the outbuildings are slave quarters, a privy, and a stable, all marked with informative signs.

3. Heyward-Washington House

Heyward-Washington House, Charleston sc

Ovidiu Hrubaru | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Children: $5.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 87 Church Street, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Open daily
  • Allow 1 hour

Once you’ve gained an understanding of Charleston’s history at The Charleston Museum, make a visit to the Heyward-Washington House.

The historic home was built in 1772 and was the residence of Thomas Heyward Jr.

Tour the home of one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and take a step back in time.

While at the house, you will be able to view the detailed Georgian-style architecture and gardens.

Walk through the original kitchen, as well as the formal gardens, and view native plants.

Additionally, you will find historic furnishings and stand where George Washington once stayed.

4. Cypress Gardens

Cypress Gardens, Charleston sc

Robert Alford | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.00, Military: $6.50, Children: $5.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner, SC 29461

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Approximately 45 minutes from downtown Charleston
  • Boat tours cost additional $5.00
  • Pet-friendly

If you are searching for ways to enjoy the outdoors of South Carolina near Charleston, head to Cypress Gardens.

Since 1932, the gardens have been welcoming visitors to easily accessible and breathtaking backcountry.

Stop by the visitor center and browse the gift shop before booking a guided boat tour.

While on the tour, you can paddle through marked trails and catch sight of native wildlife and plants.

In particular, you may see turtles, alligators, birds, and charming lily pads.

Alternatively, visit the Swamparium and get a close-up view of amphibians, reptiles, and fish.

Moreover, you will have the opportunity to see an African Crocodile and an American anaconda.

You and your kids will both love the Butterfly House, where you can see live butterflies and birds, in addition to an observation beehive and arthropod exhibit.

During your time at the gardens, be sure to keep an eye out for locations you might recognize from movies like The Patriot and The Notebook.

5. Splash Zone Waterpark

Splash Zone Waterpark, Charleston

@Splash Zone Waterpark

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $11.99, Seniors: $6.99, Children: $9.99, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 871 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC 29412

  • Open during summer
  • Located in James Island Park

Are you wondering what to do in Charleston during the summer?

Cool off with a family excursion to Splash Zone Waterpark.

Feel the thrill of speeding down the 200-foot slides or unwind on the lazy river while your kids play at the Rainforest splash structure.

Also available is a pool to swim some laps in or simply relax, and concessions for grabbing lunch or a snack.

Soak up some sun on a lounger and watch your children have blast while you sip a cold drink.

6. James Island Park

James Island Park, Charleston

@Discover South Carolina

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $1.50, additional fees for some activities

Address: 874 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC 29402

  • Open daily, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Reserve campsite
  • Pet-friendly

James Island Country Park offers a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your family.

Choose from a wide array of activities, such as playing volleyball or horseshoes, as well as exploring paved trails.

Test your skills on the climbing wall before enjoying a game of disc golf.

You can also rent a kayak, pedal boat, or stand-up paddle board and get out on the water.

Afterward, cool off in the spray fountain or do saltwater fishing.

Would you like to go camping in Charleston?

James Island Park offers 10 cabins and 124 campsites, where you can build a campfire and enjoy the Stono River marsh.

7. Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre

Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre, Charleston

@The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $27.00

Address: 164 Church Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 2 hours
  • Must be 6 or older

Enjoy a night of laughter and mystery at the Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre.

The theatre is a unique experience in which you participate and can take on a role during the show.

The original productions involve comedic skits and puzzling mysteries to solve, where you can play as a gangster, ghost, or any number of other characters.

Moreover, you can enjoy appetizers, desserts, soft drinks, and cocktails during the show.

8. Charleston Farmers Market

Charleston Farmers Market, Charleston

Jeramey Lende | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 329 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Open Saturdays, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
  • Located in Marion Square

Pay a visit to the award-winning Charleston Farmers Market and find a popular local attraction.

Grab some kettle corn to snack on and browse over 30 vendors.

During your shopping excursion, you will find local fresh produce that includes okra, squash, and seasonal fruit.

Additionally, you can find meat, eggs, and milk.

Sample fresh baked goods, prepared foods, and artisan cheese, as well as discover fine art and handmade jewelry.

9. Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row, Charleston

Gordon Bell | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 83-107 E Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Homes dating back to the 19th century
  • Bought in the 1920s by the Society for the Preservation of Old Dwellings

Rainbow Row is the perfect neighborhood to visit if you are looking for great photo opportunities while in Charleston.

Get a look at charming pastel-hued row houses that have a history dating back to the 1800s.

Originally, 6 of the buildings were painted in popular colonial Caribbean colors.

Afterward, other houses followed suit, and now you can view the colorful street that was once considered a slum.

10. USS Yorktown

USS Yorktown, Charleston

RestonImages | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $27.00, Veterans, First Responders, and Teachers: $21.00, Seniors and Military: $19.00, Children: $16.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

  • Open daily
  • Allow 1 hour
  • Located in the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Visit the USS Yorktown, and you will be able to tour an aircraft carrier that played a pivotal role in U.S. history.

During your tour of the Engine Room, you will be immersed in the experience of feeling what it was like to be a technician in World War II.

In particular, you will be able to peruse interactive kiosks, see halo-lit images, and take a virtual tour of the lower decks.

Afterward, take a tour of historic aircraft on display, such as an F6F Hellcat, a Skyhawk, and an F-14 Tomcat.

If you are interested about more places to visit in SC, I recommend you the list of things to do in Beaufort this weekend.

11. USS Laffey

USS Laffey, Charleston

Lost_in_the_Midwest | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Included with admission to USS Yorktown

Address: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

  • Open daily
  • Allow 1 hour
  • Located in the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Once you’ve toured the USS Yorktown, head over to the USS Laffey.

During your time there, you will learn about the most decorated destroyer from World War II.

At the Combat Information Center, you will be able to see how enemy submarines were located.

Afterward, visit the Mount 53 Experience.

While there, take a step back in time and experience a kamikaze attack that occurred on April 16, 1945.

The exhibit makes clear why the USS Laffey earned the nickname “The Ship That Would Not Die.”

12. Vietnam Experience Exhibit

Vietnam Experience Exhibit, Charleston

Andysartworks | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Included with admission to USS Yorktown

Address: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 6:30 pm
  • Allow 1 – 2 hours
  • Located in the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

After touring the aircraft carrier and destroyer, visit the unique Vietnam Experience Exhibit.

The 2 ½ acre exhibit brings the war to life with 3D productions and holograms, as well as displays of Vietnam War components.

Get a close-up look at an M725 Ambulance, Vietnam-era helicopters, and a Fire Control Bunker.

Also available to see is a Quonset hut, mess hall, and patrol boat.

View a 105 Howitzer gun and a M35A2 truck before going to the observation tower.

While at the tower, you will be surrounded by the sounds of helicopters and jets overhead.

Before leaving, be sure to visit the replica of a street corner in Saigon and feel what it is like to sit in a M151 Jeep.

13. The Medal of Honor Museum

The Medal of Honor Museum, Charleston

@National Medal of Honor Museum

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: Included with admission to USS Yorktown

Address: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 6:30 pm
  • Allow 1 hour
  • Located in the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Take a tour of The Medal of Honor Museum and experience the stories of Americans who bravely served the U.S. and performed remarkable feats of courage.

Learn about the first Medal of Honor recipients from the Civil War, as well as soldiers who served in Afghanistan and Iraq.

During your time at the museum, you will see photographs and Congressional Medals of Honor.

Also on hand are interactive kiosks, allowing you to gain an understanding of what it means to receive the medal.

14. Cold War Submarine Memorial

Cold War Submarine Memorial, Charleston

@Source | Michael K. Byers

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Included with admission to USS Yorktown

Address: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

  • Open daily
  • Allow 1 hour
  • Located in the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Lastly, during your visit to the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, take the time to see the Cold War Submarine Memorial.

The 2-acre site honors the contributions of those who supported and served the submarine force during the Cold War era.

In particular, you can see tributes to citizens of South Carolina and visit The Plaza and its flags.

In addition to the flags, The Plaza also provides listings of the Navy submarines that served during the Cold War.

Also, view a replica of a Benjamin Franklin Class Ballistic submarine.

15. Charleston Culinary Tours

Charleston Culinary, Charleston

@Charleston Culinary Tours

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $70.00

Address: 46 State Street, Unit B, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 2 – 3 hours

Curious about where you can find the best food in Charleston?

Charleston Culinary Tours has the answer, with several tour options that will allow you to have the experience you crave.

Take the Downtown Charleston Culinary Tour and explore the city’s French Quarter.

During the tour, you will stop at 4 food spots and learn the history of the area while sampling Lowcountry cuisine.

During the Farm-to-Table Experience, you’ll try seasonal foods prepared by a local chef.

While on the Upper King Street Culinary Tour, you can stroll through a historic neighborhood and taste modern Southern dishes.

For those who would like to sip some of the local brews of Charleston, the Pub, Taverns, and Taprooms Tour is a great choice.

Stop at 3 locations and enjoy a drink and an appetizer.

16. South Carolina Aquarium

South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston

VIS Fine Art | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $34.95, Children: $27.95, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 2 hours
  • Café and gift shop

You and your kids will both be delighted with a trip to the South Carolina Aquarium.

Visit exhibits like the Coastal Plain and discover alligators, tortoises, and even rattlesnakes.

Moreover, the exhibit will immerse you in the experience of being in a swamp at dusk.

Afterward, tour the Coast exhibit and see a massive grouper named Mel.

At the 385,000-gallon Great Ocean Tank, you will have the opportunity to view a variety of species.

In particular, you’ll be able to see a 220-pound loggerhead sea turtle and numerous sharks.

Among the fun things to do in Charleston with kids at the aquarium, you’ll be able to pet stingrays at The Shallows before visiting sea urchins and crabs at the Touch Tank.

In addition to marine life, plenty of other animals call the aquarium home.

Stroll through the Mountain Forest and meet Larry, the bald eagle, and view a falcon in the Piedmont exhibit.

What’s more, you can visit the Backyard Habitat and see native plants, birds, and insects.

17. Take a Ghost Tour with Bulldog Tours

Take a Ghost Tour with Bulldog Tours, Charleston

@Bulldog Tours

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Starting at: Adults: $37.00, Children: $27.00, Ages 3 and Under: Free

Address: 18 Anson Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 2 – 3 hours

Charleston is a city that has a reputation for having a haunted side, and if you’d like to see the spookiest spots, spend some time with Bulldog Tours.

The tour company offers numerous ghost tour options, ensuring you have a memorable experience.

The Spirits of Magnolia Cemetery Tour will take you through Victorian burial grounds.

Travel across the cemetery that was once the site of a rice plantation in the late 18th century.

Hear tragic tales and legends as you learn the history of the area, as well as haunted stories.

During the Charleston Ghost and Graveyard Tour, you can visit the oldest graveyards in the city at night.

Additionally, you can choose the Charleston Haunted Jail Tour.

While on the tour, make your way through the Old City Jail and learn about the infamous pirates, criminals, and Civil War prisoners who once resided there.

In particular, you’ll be able to explore hallways and cells as your guide regales you with hair-raising stories.

The Charleston Ghost and Dungeon Tour is a fascinating trip through the darker places of the city.

Visit churches, historic streets, and back alleyways as you learn about the superstitions of the Lowcountry.

Also available are tours like a Haunted Pub Crawl and a visit to the USS Yorktown.

18. Charleston Fun Park

Charleston Fun Park, Charleston

@Charleston Fun Park

Rating: 4.2★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on activity

Address: 3255 N Highway 17, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466

  • Open daily
  • Party packages

Head to Charleston Fun Park with your family or friends for a day of entertainment.

Hit the go-kart track and race around tight corners before checking out the Omni Arena.

While at the arena, you can try out VR games that will have you battling zombies and robots and even your friends.

Afterward, play a round of mini golf while surrounded by the lush greenery of the South.

Challenge your friends at axe throwing, have a fun-filled time with bumper cars, and test your skills at the arcade, as well as take a ride on the VR coaster.

19. Go Kayaking with Charleston Outdoor Adventures

Charleston Outdoor Adventures, Charleston

@Source | Anjeanette Blesy

Rat4ing: 5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at: Adults: $50.00, Children: $32.00

Address: 1871 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC 29412

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
  • Allow 2 – 3 hours

Explore the marshes of South Carolina with a kayaking tour provided by Charleston Outdoor Adventures.

The leisurely trip will lead you through the Folly Beach area, where you will see a variety of wildlife.

Particularly, you may catch sight of wading birds, crabs, pelicans, and dolphins.

Your local guide will take you through coastal waterways and share knowledge about the local ecosystems.

What’s more, you can book various boat tours and rent paddle boards among the outdoor activities to do in Charleston provided by the adventure company.

20. Old Slave Mart Museum

Old Slave Mart Museum, Charleston

Joanne Dale | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Children: $5.00, Ages 6 and Under: Free

Address: 6 Chalmers Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 1 – 2 hours

Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum and learn about Charleston’s role in slave trade during the 19th century.

The museum is housed in a former slave auction site and was originally a part of what was known as Ryan’s Slave Market.

In 1938 the building was established as a museum.

Presently, you can read an interview with a former enslaved person, view artifacts, and peruse newspaper articles.

Additionally, you’ll find photographs and extensive stories to read.

21. Forte Jazz Lounge

Forte Jazz Lounge, Charleston

@Forte Jazz Lounge

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on time and show

Address: 477 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Open Tuesday through Sunday
  • Showtimes and tickets online

Are you wondering where to find the best music in Charleston?

At Forte Jazz Lounge, you can listen to awe-inspiring live jazz music with headliners that range from Grammy winners to legendary local talents.

Sip a glass of wine or beer while you sit back and relax to the sounds of superb jazz musicians.

22. Angel Oak Tree

Angel Oak Tree, Charleston

Mike Ver Sprill | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island, SC 29455

  • Open daily
  • 300 – 400 years old

Get an up-close look at the breathtaking Angel Oak Tree.

The largest Live Oak Tree on the eastern side of the Mississippi, the tree is an impressive 65 feet tall.

Additionally, the tree provides 17,000 square feet of shade and has a circumference of over 25 feet.

Considered a gem of South Carolina, the spectacular tree is a sight to behold that you won’t want to miss.

Once you’ve got a photo and admired the tree, head to the picnic area and enjoy an outdoor lunch.

23. Gibbes Museum of Art

Gibbes Museum of Art, Charleston

@Gibbes Museum of Art

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Seniors, Students, and Military: $10.00, Children: $6.00, Ages 3 and Under: Free

Address: 135 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open daily
  • Allow 2 hours

Tour Gibbes Museum of Art, and you will spend a pleasant afternoon viewing diverse creative works.

See portraits dating back to the 18th century, as well as pottery, silver, and landscape paintings.

You can also view sculptures and antique furnishings before perusing photographs and art installations.

Also on hand are modern and contemporary pieces, in addition to miniature portraits and an exhibit showcasing Greek Geometric Art.

24. Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historic Park

Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historic Park, Charleston

Michael Gordon | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: General Admission: $10.00, Ferry fee to Fort Sumter: $32.00

Address: 340 Concord Street, Charleston, NC 29401

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 2 – 3 hours

Located at the entrance of Charleston Harbor, you will find Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie.

The Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historic Park is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for historical sites in Charleston.

Take a boat tour of Fort Sumter and see Civil War artifacts, such as a Mountain Howitzer.

Afterward, tour Fort Moultrie.

Learn about the fort’s history through interpretive signs and stop by the visitor center to see exhibits.

While at the historic park, you will also learn about seaside defenses, disagreements between the North and the South, and plantation culture.

Additionally, you’ll gain an understanding of what led to significant incidents at Fort Sumter and how the Confederate Army was developed.

Moreover, rangers offer programs throughout the week.

25. The Williams Mansion

The Williams Mansion, Charleston

@Soure | Nicole Sobecki

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: $17.00

Address: 16 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open daily, 11:00 am – 4:30 pm
  • Allow 90 minutes

The Williams Mansion has a rich history that began before it was even built.

Originally, the plot of land was home to the Lowndes House and Governor Pinckney, who had George Washington as a guest in 1791.

Presently, the Williams Mansion, which was built right after the Civil War, is open to the public.

During your time at the mansion, you will be able to see the architectural details of the Italianate manor.

Moreover, you can explore 35 rooms that are home to opulent chandeliers, period fireplaces, and a breathtaking stairwell.

Admire the enormous skylight in the music room before perusing antiques and artwork.

26. Circular Congregational Church

Circular Congregational Church, Charleston

Ehrlif | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 150 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Founded in 1681
  • Location that gave Meeting Street its name

In addition to being an unusual and spectacular structure, the Circular Congregational Church is also a part of Charleston’s history.

Particularly, you will want to tour the graveyard that is commonly regarded as the city’s oldest English burial ground.

Walk through the area, and you will see spots where gravestones have eroded away, in addition to significant points of interest.

The oldest unmarked grave on the grounds dates back to 1695.

Alternatively, the oldest marked grave is from 1729.

While visiting the graveyard, be sure to notice the carved images on many of the gravestones.

You will see skull-and-crossbones markings, as well as evolving art inscriptions that include wings and the “death’s head.”

What’s more, you can view arched vault graves, carved portraits, and large burial monuments.

27. Children’s Museum of Lowcountry

Children’s Museum of Lowcountry, Charleston

@Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: $15.00

Address: 25 Ann Street, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Open Tuesday through Sunday
  • Allow 2 hours

The Children’s Museum of Lowcountry is a great place to take your kids, where play and learning are combined.

Spend some time in the art room getting creative before visiting the Air Air Everywhere exhibit.

Afterward, get noisy in the Speak Loud Studio!

While in the studio, you and your kids will be encouraged to create an experimental theater show.

Make costumes, create set pieces, and come up with original stories.

In the Kids’ Garden, you can explore nature.

Discover butterflies and insects, as well as learn about plants and natural water systems.

Also on hand is a Pirate Ship, a miniature market, and an experimentation lab.

28. Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, Charleston

Meunierd | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Children: $5.00, Ages 6 and Under: Free

Address: 122 E Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open daily
  • Allow 1 – 2 hours

Built in 1771, the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon was the site of major events in South Carolina.

Originally a commercial exchange building, the property was also home to Confederate, U.S., and British governments.

Additionally, the building served as a facility for prisoners of war during the American Revolution.

Presently, you can tour the building, including the basement that was once the dungeon.

View the Palladian design of the structure, as well as meeting rooms and artifacts.

Moreover, docents are on hand to answer any questions and share stories.

Do you want to learn more about Charleston’s history?

Hear tales about American Revolution patriots, in addition to pirates that called the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon home.

29. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston

Margaret.Wiktor | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $29.00, Children: $15.00

Address: 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 3 hours

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is commonly thought of as one of the most beautiful spots in South Carolina.

Founded in 1676, the plantation is the oldest tourist site open to the public in the Lowcountry.

Take a stroll through the romantic-style garden and enjoy a tranquil atmosphere as you travel over quaint bridges, view pastel-hued flowers, and sit beneath a tree covered in Spanish Moss.

During a guided tour of the house, you will learn about the Drayton family, who called the plantation home for over 3 centuries.

Explore 10 rooms that contain early-American furnishings, as well as antiques, quilts, and porcelain.

Afterward, visit the Zoo and Nature Center and meet native animals, such as a beaver, a fox, and a bobcat.

Also available are special tours that include a Nature Boat Tour, Nature Tram, and The Magnolia Cabin Project Tour, making the plantation and surrounding property one of the best things to do in Charleston.

Before leaving, be sure to visit the Audubon Swamp Garden, in addition to taking the Historic Garden Walk.

30. Take a Cruise with Schooner Pride

Cruise with Schooner Pride, Charleston

@Schooner Pride

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $34.00

Address: 360 Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Book in advance
  • 3-mast schooner available for some cruises

If you’d like to see the sights from the waters of Charleston Harbor, take a cruise provided by Schooner Pride.

Numerous options are available, in addition to cruises that focus on tours and dining.

Take one of the sightseeing cruises, such as a classic harbor tour, and learn about the city’s history.

During the tour, you will see Fort Sumter, the USS Yorktown, and spectacular homes.

Additionally, dolphins often appear in the waters to glide next to the boat.

Moreover, you can choose cruises that are themed and provide dining.

Are you trying to find date ideas in Charleston?

Take your significant other on the Sunset Music & BBQ Cruise for an evening of entertainment and delicious food, or choose an intimate Sunset Sail.

Also on offer are a Full Moon Sail, dolphin-watching cruises, and craft beer cruises.

For those seeking cruising inspiration, consider exploring the best Bahamas cruises.

31. Charleston Carriage Works

Charleston Carriage Works, Charleston

Electric Egg | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $50.00, Children: $40.00

Address: 20 Anson Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 1 hour

If you’re still looking for romantic things to do in Charleston, surprise your date with a carriage ride through the city with Charleston Carriage Works.

During your ride, you will make your way through historic neighborhoods while onboard a custom-designed carriage.

Enjoy cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture as your driver shares 300 years of Charleston history.

Afterward, take a stroll through the stables and meet the friendly horses there.

In particular, you can pet horses like Chief, a strawberry roan, or Buster, a personable yet ornery character.

32. Charleston City Market

Charleston City Market, Charleston

Kevin Ruck | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 188 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open Sunday through Thursday, 9:30 am – 6:00 pm; Weekends, 9:30 am – 10:30 pm
  • Established in the 18th century

Do you want to find some of the best shopping in Charleston?

Spend some time at the Charleston City Market, and you will find a wide array of more than 300 vendors to peruse.

During the day, you’ll find artisan baskets, home décor, homemade baked goods, and galleries.

Also on hand are products like perfumes and oils, handmade jewelry, and books.

At night, visit the market to find a showcase of art.

Peruse folk art, novelty shops, graphic designs, and glasswork, in addition to much more.

Once you are ready for a break from all that shopping, stop at one of the many eateries available at the market.

33. Murder on the Move: A Silent Murder by Fever Up

Murder on the Move A Silent Murder by Fever Up, Charleston

@Fever

Entry Ticket: $15.00

Address: Charleston, SC

  • Book online
  • Follow clues through app

Murder on the Move: A Silent Murder by Fever Up is a fantastic and unique scavenger hunt that combines a mystery with a sightseeing tour of Charleston.

In addition to trying to solve the murder of a silent film star, you will also be visiting historical sites.

Follow clues and solve riddles as you make your way across the city.

In particular, you will visit places like the Charleston City Market, Marion Square, and the Riviera Theater.

What’s more, you’ll be able to experience the scavenger hunt whenever you’d like, and there is no time limit.

34. Nathaniel Russell House

Nathaniel Russell House, Charleston

Heather Raulerson | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Children: $7.00, Ages 6 and Under: Free

Address: 51 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open daily, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 1 hour
  • Combo packages available with Aiken-Rhett House Museum

During a visit to the Nathaniel Russell House, you will get a peek at what life was like for the elite in the late Colonial era.

Learn about the craftspeople and artisans who built the opulent homes of the rich, as well as the enslaved people who made their lavish lifestyles a reality.

Tour neoclassical rooms and explore places like the kitchen house and enslaved living quarters.

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to peruse antique furnishings and artwork.

35. Aiken-Rhett House Museum

Aiken-Rhett House Museum, Charleston

Aceshot1 | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Children: $7.00, Ages 6 and Under: Free

Address: 48 Elizabeth Street, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Open daily, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 2 hours
  • Combo packages available with Nathaniel Russell House

After touring the Nathaniel Russell House, make your way to the Aiken Rhett House Museum.

While there, you will learn about the lives of Governor Aiken and his wife.

Moreover, you will come to understand to lives of the enslaved people who served them.

Admire the distinct and varied architectural styles of the home before visiting the outbuildings.

Explore the original slave quarters that are still on the property and see what life was like for African Americans during the mid-19th century in Charleston.

Additionally, you can peruse the carriage block, kitchen, and back lot.

36. Folly Beach

Folly Beach, Charleston

Cvandyke | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Folly Island, SC

  • Located 20 minutes from downtown Charleston
  • Accommodations available

Folly Beah is a quaint and charming seaside town with plenty of activities to discover.

Spend some time meeting the locals at shops and seafood restaurants, as well as visiting tourist attractions like The Porgy House.

Wondering if there is a good beach near Charleston?

Folly Beach offers a soft sandy shoreline with great surfing, fishing, swimming, and views.

Rent a kayak and get out on the water before taking a bike to explore or sunbathing on a lounger.

Looking for more fun and family-friendly activities in other parts of South Carolina? check out the best things to do in Myrtle beach, also don’t forget to check out the top resorts in Myrtle Beach!

What’s more, there are plenty of beach shops nearby to keep you and your family entertained while on the sand or water.

37. Charleston Fossil Adventures

Charleston Fossil Adventures, Charleston

@Charleston Outdoor Adventures

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $75.00

Address: Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29414

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 2 – 3 hours unless otherwise indicated

Charleston Fossil Adventures offers unique and fun things to do in Charleston with tours that put you in the shoes of fossil hunters.

Explore Folly Beach and discover shells, shark teeth, and marine fossils dating back millions of years.

During a Fossil Kayaking Adventure, you will explore secluded locations that are home to larger fossils.

If you’d like to find unusual fossils, book the Edisto Beach Adventure.

In particular, you’ll have the opportunity to find fossils from creatures like mastodons, mammoths, and bison, plus other Ice Age animals.

38. Charleston Tea Garden

Charleston Tea Garden, Charleston

Ttomasek15 | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Tours starting at $15.00

Address: 6617 Maybank Highway, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487

  • Open daily
  • Allow 45 minutes for trolley tour

If you love tea or would simply like a relaxing and tranquil excursion, visit the Charleston Tea Garden.

While at the tea garden, you will be immersed in a pleasant experience as you gaze out at the breathtaking property.

Take a tour of the tea factory and see the equipment used to make tea before going on a trolley ride.

During the trolley ride, you can visit the greenhouse before stopping by the gift shop to find every tea item imaginable.

39. The Original Pub & Brewery Tours of Charleston

Original Pub & Brewery Tours of Charleston, Charleston

@Original Pub & Brewery Tours of Charleston

Rating: 4.2★

Entry Ticket: $42.00

Address: 40 N Market Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 3 hours

Explore historic taverns and pubs of Charleston while having a fun-filled time and sampling drinks with The Original Pub & Brewery Tours of Charleston.

In particular, you can try southern cocktails, local brews, and much more.

Another tour provided is the Upper King Street Pub Crawl, in which you can explore the King Street district.

Also available during the tours are light appetizers and historical stories.

40. Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park

Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park, Charleston

Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $19.00

Address: 1595 Highland Avenue, Charleston, SC 29412

  • Open Friday through Wednesday
  • Allow 1 – 2 hours
  • Waiver required

Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park is a unique way to have fun and test yourself while in Charleston.

If you are new to rope climbing, try the Explorer’s Gateway experience.

You and your kids will learn how a ropes course works, as well as understand your limits and abilities.

For those who are looking for more excitement, the Challenge Course provides an impressive experience.

Traverse 72 obstacles that are suspended and climb up to 35 feet in the air.

Swing on Tarzan ropes, in addition to making your way across swinging bridges.

41. Charleston Charter Fishing

Charleston Charter Fishing, Charleston

@Charleston Charter Fishing

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $500.00

Address: Charleston, SC

  • Book in advance
  • 4- and 6-hour tours available
  • Tackle, bait, license, and drinks provided

Would you like to go fishing in Charleston?

Book an experience with Charleston Charter Fishing, and you will discover some of the best fishing in the area.

Enjoy a day of exploring spots like Kiawah Island, Sullivan’s Island, and Folly Beach as your guide takes you out to catch superb fish.

While on the charter, you will have the opportunity to catch Redfish, as well as seasonal species.

Feel thrilled catching a shark, ladyfish, or bluefish, in addition to spotted seatrout and flounder.

42. Friends of the Hunley

Friends of the Hunley, Charleston

@Friends of the Hunley

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $18.00, Seniors and Military: $15.00, Students and Children: $10.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 1250 Supply Street, North Charleston, SC 29405

  • Open Saturday and Sunday
  • Allow 2 hours

If you’re curious about Civil War history in the Charleston area, stop by Friends of Hunley, where you can see a Confederate submarine from 1864.

The submarine was lost at sea until discovered in 1995.

Presently, you can tour the artifacts that were recovered from the submarine and view the ship.

See jewelry, a Union ID tag, and a signal lantern, in addition to binoculars, buttons, and other personal items.

What’s more, you can learn about the mystery of the Hunley as scientists and adventurers have investigated its disappearance and the fate of the crew.

43. McLeod Plantation Historic Site

McLeod Plantation Historic Site, Charleston

@McLeod Plantation Historic Site

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $20.00, Seniors: $15.00, Children: $6.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 325 Country Club Drive, Charleston, SC 29412

  • Open Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Allow 2 hours

McLeod Plantation Historic Site preserves the history of enslaved people, as well as the daily life between the McLeod family and those who worked at the plantation.

During your tour, you will see the home of the McLeod family and compare their comforts with the enslaved families.

Also, you will learn about the product of the plantation, sea island cotton.

Gain an understanding of the plantation’s importance during the Civil War, in addition to the spirituality of its residents.

Additionally, you can explore trails found throughout the property and how the plantation’s landscape evolved.

44. Powder Magazine

Powder Magazine, Charleston

David AvRutick | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $6.00, Children: $4.00

Address: 79 Cumberland Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open daily
  • Allow 1 – 2 hours

Step into history at Powder Magazine, the oldest government building in the state of South Carolina.

Built in 1713, the structure was used to store gunpowder during the American Revolution.

Presently, you can tour the single-story building and learn its history.

Discover the many ways the building was used after the war, including as a wine cellar for the architect Gabriel Manigault.

Peruse artifacts and exhibits that will help you gain a better understanding of the American Revolution and Colonial times.

45. Visit Sullivan’s Island

Sullivan’s Island, Charleston

Tokar | Shutterstock

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Sullivan’s Island, SC

  • Approximately 25 minutes from downtown Charleston
  • Souvenir shops

Sullivan’s Island is a barrier island located at the entrance of Charleston Harbor.

Settled in the 17th century, the small town has a rich history, including the Battle of Sullivan’s Island.

During your time on the island, you can go shopping at the quaint local stores and sample dishes from a variety of restaurants.

Grab a burger at Poe’s Tavern or enjoy the American Revolution atmosphere at the Obstinate Daughter.

You can also find live music and a cold beer at Dunleavy’s Pub.

Spend some time on the beach, where you will discover seashells and sand dollars before trying your hand at crabbing.

Other activities on the beach include fishing, kayaking, and surfing.

46. Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse

Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, Charleston

Billy McDonald | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 1815 Ion Avenue, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

  • Triangular lighthouse
  • Built in 1962

While visiting Sullivan’s Island, be sure to see Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, also known as Charleston Light.

The 140-foot-tall lighthouse is an enchanting beacon at the entrance of Charleston Harbor.

Get some great photos of the structure, as well as enjoy views of the harbor, Fort Sumter, and the nearby bridge.

47. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site

Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, Charleston

EWY Media | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 1254 Long Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

  • Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 2 hours
  • 715 acres

A political leader of South Carolina, Charles Pinckney, also played a vital role in shaping the United States.

Pinckney was a signor of the U.S. Constitution, as well as one of its principal authors.

During your time at the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, you will be able to tour Snee Farm and learn about Pinckney’s life, making it an amazing find among the free things to do in Charleston.

Learn about the enslaved people of the plantation, in addition to the daily operations of the property.

Moreover, you can tour the current farmhouse that was built in 1828.

In particular, the house illustrates the lifestyle of 18th-century plantation owners, and the outbuildings highlight the lives of those he enslaved.

48. Charles Towne Landing

Charles Towne Landing, Charleston

Cvandyke | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $12.00, Seniors: $7.50, Children: $7.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 1500 Old Towne Road, Charleston, SC 29407

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Pet-friendly

Visit the spot where the first settlers of South Carolina arrived at Charles Towne Landing.

Take a tour of a re-created 17th-century sailing ship before seeing cannons fired.

Afterward, tour the exhibits at the visitor center or explore the interpretive trails that lead through the marsh.

Additionally, there are 80 acres of gardens to discover and a History Trail.

While on the History Trail, you can travel through the area of the original settlement that dates back to 1670.

Explore fortifications that have been reconstructed, as well as the crop garden.

Would you like to see some of the wildlife around Charleston?

Walk along the Animal Forest Trail at Charles Towne Landing, and you will see bears, bison, and otters.

49. Pineapple Fountain

Pineapple Fountain, Charleston

Sean Pavone | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 1 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Located in Joe Riley Waterfront Park
  • Built in 1990

The Pineapple Fountain, located in Waterfront Park, is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city.

Created to highlight the city’s common use of the pineapple as a symbol, the found attracts locals and tourists who are seeking a great photo opportunity.

After capturing a picture of the multi-layered fountain, enjoy a stroll along the waterfront, in addition to exploring the nearby local attractions.

50. White Point Garden

White Point Garden, Charleston

David AvRutick | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 2 Murray Boulevard, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open daily, 7:00 am – 9:30 pm
  • Located in historic district
  • Pet-friendly

White Point Garden is a public green space that has a fascinating history, as well as spectacular views.

Take a stroll along the shoreline and view part of the Battery, a defensive seawall constructed in the early 19th century.

Afterward, get a close-up look at the columbiads and stop by the Defenders of Fort Moultrie monument.

Additionally, you can view the dancing girl fountain, the capstan from the USS Maine, and the United Daughters of the Confederacy monument.

51. Magnolia Cemetery

Magnolia Cemetery, Charleston

@Source | Maggie Grotle

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 70 Cunnington Avenue, Charleston, SC 29405

  • Open daily, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Oldest grave dates back to 1800

Magnolia Cemetery is a fascinating location to visit in Charleston.

Constructed on a former plantation property in 1850, the cemetery offers unusual monuments and a classic southern environment.

Are you curious about the notable residents of Charleston?

During a walk through Magnolia Cemetery, you will see the final resting place of numerous citizens who played a key role in the shaping of not only South Carolina but the country.

Visit the gravesites of Confederate general James Conner and crewmembers of the submarine H.L. Hunley.

Also interred at the cemetery are novelists Josephine Pinckney and William Gilmore Simms.

View the graves of British soldiers before getting a look at the unique William B. Smith monument.

Additionally, you’ll find the markers for unknown Confederate soldiers and the impressive Vanderhorst Mausoleum.

52. Walks of Charleston

Walks of Charleston, Charleston

@Walks of Charleston

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $25.00

Address: 45 Pinckney Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 2 hours

Take a tour with Walks of Charleston and get to know the city, from the history to the architecture.

During the Charleston History Tour, you will have the opportunity to see hundreds of breathtaking historic homes.

In particular, your guide will take you to places like Rainbow Row and the French Quarter.

See awe-inspiring churches, like St. Michel’s and St. Philip’s, in addition to historic sites.

Enjoy views of Fort Sumter and take a stroll through White Point Garden, as well as tour the Old Exchange Building.

If you’d prefer a behind-the-scenes type of tour, book Charleston’s Alleys and Hidden Passages.

While on the tour, you will see quaint and charming areas hidden from most people.

Walk along brick and cobblestone streets and get a unique perspective on the city.

53. Mrs. Whaley’s Garden

Mrs. Whaley’s Garden, Charleston

@Mrs. Whaley’s Garden

Rating: 4.1★

Entry Ticket: $10.00

Address: 58 Church Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open Thursday through Sunday, noon – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 30 minutes

Enjoy a look at Mrs. Whaley’s Garden, a private garden that was created in 1942.

During your stroll through the beautiful space, you can view garden rooms that adhere to classic design principles.

Relax and unwind amid pathways that will take you past a fountain, shade plants, and vibrant flowers.

Also on hand is a tranquil reflecting pool and stone sculpture.

54. Music Farm

Music Farm, Charleston

@Music Farm

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on show

Address: 32 Ann Street, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Book in advance
  • Showtimes online

For a great music experience, head to the Music Farm.

Formed in 1991, the music venue focuses on music rather than a nightclub atmosphere.

The Music Farm has hosted numerous world-renowned artists, such as Marilyn Manson, Kid Rock, and the Dave Matthews Band, making it one of the top things to do in Charleston at night.

Dance the night away, meet locals, and have a great time at what many consider the best music venue in Charleston.

55. Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art

Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, Charleston

@Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 161 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open Monday through Saturday
  • Local, regional, and international artists

See amazing art for free at the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art.

Located at the College of Charleston, the art institute offers a look at works by emerging artists.

View student exhibitions, as well as art that focuses on the Native American experience, global cultures, and experimental styles.

56. Drayton Hall

Drayton Hall, Charleston

James Kirkikis | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $26.00, Children: $10.00, Ages 7 and Under: Free

Address: 3380 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414

  • Open Wednesday through Monday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Combo package available with Middleton Place
  • Built in 1752

Are you curious about the culture of Charleston?

Visit Drayton Hall, and you will discover how life in the South has evolved throughout history and what has shaped the culture found in the region.

While at the house, admire the architectural details of the earliest Palladian-style home in the country.

Completely restored, the house is a monument that will immerse you in the unique and breathtaking rooms of the home.

Also available to view are artifacts, such as a tea set, baskets, slave tags, and marble tables.

Tour the plantation grounds, and you will discover outbuildings, including a former garden house, as well as an African American cemetery and freedmen’s village.

Lastly, stroll the courtyard garden and the Lenhardt garden for a look at native plants.

57. Middleton Place

Middleton Place, Charleston

Meunierd | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $29.00, Students: $15.00, Children: $10.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414

  • Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Allow 1 hour

Built during the 18th and 19th centuries, Middleton Place was home to the prominent Middleton family.

Tour exhibits that showcase what plantation life was like for both the family and the people they enslaved.

Additionally, you can explore the 65 acres of landscaped gardens that are breathtaking.

During a tour of the Stableyards, you can meet historic animal breeds.

58. Middleton Place Equestrian Center

Middleton Place Equestrian Center, Charleston

@Middleton Place Equestrian Center

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $79.00

Address: 4280 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 2 hours
  • Arrive 15 minutes early

Would you like to go horseback riding in Charleston?

Middleton Place Equestrian Center offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with historic trail rides that are fun and educational.

If you’ve never ridden a horse, there’s no need to fret, as the leisurely trail ride is great for beginners.

Travel through the historic Plantation District as your guide regales you with historical knowledge.

59. Patina Market

Patina Market, Charleston

@Patina Market

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 1929 Maybank Highway, Charleston, SC 29412

  • Open daily
  • Over 30 vendors

Are you wondering where you can go antiquing in Charleston? 

Visit Patina Market, and you will find top-tier items, reasonable prices, and a diverse selection.

The vendor mall showcases an eclectic mix of antiques, where you are sure to find something you love.

Peruse booths that host local sellers and discover everything from artwork and home décor to rare collectibles and dishware.

60. Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, Charleston

Sean Pavone | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge, Charleston, SC 29403

  • 2.5 miles long
  • Built in 2005

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is a spectacular suspension bridge that is the 3rd longest cable-stayed bridge in the Western Hemisphere.

What’s more, the bridge offers pleasant walkways to traverse across.

Wondering where the best views in Charleston might be?

Take a stroll on the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and you can get superb photos of the city skyline and the shore, as well as the waterways and boats.

61. Isla Surf School

Isla Surf School, Charleston

@Isla Surf School

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $55.00

Address: 301 W Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 90 minutes
  • Surfboard, wetsuit, and rash guards provided

Charleston has fantastic surf spots available, making it a great place to take the opportunity to learn how to surf.

Isla Surf School offers one of the fun things to do in Charleston with surf lessons that are enjoyable and customized for you and your friends or family.

Take a group or private lesson and receive expert instruction, as well as all the tools you’ll need.

Enjoy a day on the water and test your skills as you improve your balance and ability.

In particular, the surf school prides itself on ensuring a fantastic experience that will leave you wanting more.

62. Boone Hall

Boone Hall, Charleston

Meunierd | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $28.00, Seniors and Military: $25.00, Children: $12.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 1235 Long Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

  • Open daily
  • Allow 2 – 3 hours
  • Built in 1681

Begin your visit to Boone Hall with a tractor tour through the 738-acre property.

During the tour, you will learn the history of the plantation, as well as see the operations of the current working farm.

What’s more, you will have the memorable experience of traveling under the canopy of 200-year-old oak trees.

Afterward, peruse the mansion.

While in the home, you can see Georgian-style details, antique furnishings, and recovered materials.

Also available is the opportunity to learn about the Gullah culture.

Attend a presentation that is one of the most interesting things to do in Charleston and will help you gain an understanding of the culture that arose from African slaves.

During the presentation, you will hear stories and songs, in addition to seeing dances.

Visit the Black History in America Exhibit to tour 9 original slave quarters and see the Slave History Presentation.

The presentation offers a look at historical relics and relays what life what like for the enslaved people of Boone Hall.

Before leaving, be sure to see the colorful garden and stop by the Butterfly Pavilion.

63. Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Charleston

Bill Kennedy | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 120 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Original chapel built in 1821
  • 4 chapels

Stop by the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Charleston and view a breathtaking Gothic Revival structure.

Opened in 1907, the church offers a look at some awe-inspiring architecture.

While at the church, you can also view numerous stained-glass windows and a five-light window inspired by the famous Last Supper by DaVinci.

64. Edmondston-Alston House

Edmondston-Alston House, Charleston

@Edmondston-Alston House

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Students: $10.00, Children: $5.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 21 E Battery, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open Monday through Saturday
  • Allow 1 hour

Built in 1825, the Edmondston-Alston House offers a unique look at the lives of both enslaved and free people.

During your tour of the house, you will see decorative arts, furnishings, and silver that were originally owned by the colonial residents.

In addition to the collections and architecture, be sure to admire the spectacular views of the harbor.

65. Mace Brown Museum of Natural History

Mace Brown Museum of Natural History, Charleston

@Adventures Of A Homeschooler

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 202 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open Thursday through Tuesday, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Located at College of Charleston

Take your kids to the Mace Brown Museum of Natural history for a fun and educational afternoon.

During your tour of the museum, get an up-close look at numerous fossils, dinosaur bones, and fossil plants.

In particular, you’ll want to check out the reconstructed jaw of a Megalodon shark.

Also on hand are displays of fossils of cave bears, mosasaurs, and ocean life.

66. Charleston Pirate Tours

Charleston Pirate, Charleston

Sonicpuss | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $14.00

Address: 79 Cumberland Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 2 hours

Book a tour with Charleston Pirate Tours and experience the city in a whole new way.

Take the Charleston Pirate Tour and enjoy an entertaining time with your pirate guide and his parrot.

During the excursion, you’ll learn about exploits committed by famous pirates like Blackbeard, Stede Bonnet, and Anne Bonny.

Also on offer is a Charleston Ghost & Pirate Tour, a Children’s Treasure Hunt, and History Highlights Tour.

67. Museum at Market Hall

Museum at Market Hall, Charleston

Ayman Haykal | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $7.00, Children: $3.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 188 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Open Friday and Saturday, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Built in 1841

If you are a Civil War buff, you’ll love a tour of the Museum at Market Hall.

Housed in a building that was inspired by the Temple of the Wingless Victory in Athens, the museum offers a look at fascinating artifacts.

Peruse relics that were personal items belonging to soldiers of the Confederate Army.

Moreover, you’ll be walking through the same space where the soldiers signed up for service to the Confederacy.

68. Shem Creek Boardwalk

Shem Creek Boardwalk, Charleston

Serge Skiba | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Mt. Pleasant, SC

  • Waterfront district
  • Boat tours available

Take a stroll along Shem Creek Boardwalk and enjoy a charming waterfront atmosphere.

Additionally, you’ll find plenty to do while exploring the area.

Sample fresh seafood at restaurants while you look out over the water, in addition to bars where you can stop for a drink.

Head to one of the piers and do some fishing before touring the docks to watch crab boats at work.

Moreover, you’ll find amazing views that include Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney.

69. Speed Boat Adventures

Speed Boat Adventures, Charleston

@Speed Boat Adventures

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $89.45

Address: 56 Ashley Point Drive, Charleston, SC 29407

  • Book in advance
  • Allow 2 hours

Speed Boat Adventures combines thrills with sightseeing on their Charleston Harbor Tour.

The guided tour covers 13 miles and allows you to view sites like the USS Yorktown, Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and the Battery, in addition to the city skyline.

Moreover, you’ll have a chance to see local wildlife in between speeding across the waters.

70. Deep Water Vineyard

Deep Water Vineyard, Charleston

@Deep Water Vineyard

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $15.00

Address: 6775 Bears Bluff Road, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487

  • Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Private event planning available

Spend a day with friends or your date at Deep Water Vineyard for a memorable experience.

Take a self-guided tour and tasting, and you can sample 6 wines of your choice.

Afterward, receive a souvenir wine glass and enjoy a leisurely walk through the vineyard.

Additionally, the winery has partner tours that will take you through the 48-acre property.

Learn some history and sample beer, wine, and spirits during a private tour.

Also offered by the vineyard are special events that include food trucks, live music, and pairings.

In particular, there is transportation offered to and from the vineyard, allowing you to enjoy yourself without worrying about the drive home.