THINGS TO DO IN CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

Discover Events, Entertainment, and Stay Options in Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic and picturesque coastal city known for its well-preserved architecture, rich culture, and Southern hospitality. As one of the oldest cities in the U.S., Charleston blends cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and a thriving culinary scene with modern entertainment and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re exploring waterfront parks, dining on Lowcountry cuisine, or enjoying the lively nightlife on King Street, this page highlights the best things to do in Charleston.

Find the Best Places to Eat and Drink

Charleston is a top-tier food destination, known for its Lowcountry cuisine, fresh seafood, and classic Southern flavors. Visitors can enjoy shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and Hoppin’ John, as well as oyster roasts and barbecue. The Historic District and French Quarter feature award-winning restaurants, rooftop cocktail bars, and charming cafés. The Upper King Street area is a hotspot for trendy eateries, craft breweries, and speakeasies, while Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant offers waterfront seafood dining with stunning sunset views.

Hotels, Resorts, and Unique Stays

Charleston offers a mix of historic inns, boutique hotels, and luxury waterfront resorts. The Downtown Historic District features charming bed-and-breakfasts and restored colonial-style hotels within walking distance of major attractions. Visitors looking for beachfront accommodations can stay on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, or Sullivan’s Island, all within a short drive of downtown. For a unique experience, guests can book plantation-style lodges, countryside retreats, or historic homes in the city’s quieter neighborhoods.

Social and Cultural Hotspots

Charleston has a thriving arts, music, and nightlife scene. King Street is the city’s entertainment hub, offering a mix of cocktail lounges, live jazz bars, and dance clubs. The Charleston Gaillard Center and Dock Street Theatre host Broadway-style performances, live music, and cultural events. The city is also known for its art galleries in the French Quarter, Gullah cultural experiences, and seasonal festivals, including the famous Spoleto Festival USA, which attracts artists from around the world.

Historical and Local Landmarks

Charleston is rich in colonial and Civil War history, with landmarks dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Fort Sumter National Monument, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, is a must-visit. Rainbow Row, The Battery, and White Point Garden showcase the city’s historic charm with stunning antebellum mansions and scenic waterfront views. Boone Hall Plantation and Middleton Place offer a deeper look into Charleston’s past, with preserved plantation homes and gardens. The Old Slave Mart Museum provides an important historical perspective on the city’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.

Things to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston offers a mix of beach activities, historic tours, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can take a harbor cruise, walk along the Ravenel Bridge, or kayak through the marshlands of Shem Creek. The city’s beaches, including Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island, are perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, and relaxing by the ocean. Charleston also hosts year-round events, such as the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, the Lowcountry Oyster Festival, and the MOJA Arts Festival. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or coastal relaxation, this page provides everything you need to experience Charleston.