The Best Things to Do in Charleston SC

Rent a Bike and Cruise the City

Charleston is ideal for leisurely cruising through the city with little effort. There are many bike shops offering hourly to daily rentals. One of our favorites is The Bicycle Shoppe on Meeting Street.

Most of the city’s historical monuments offer plaques to learn about what you’re seeing. Being in the low country, this is a great option for seeing the majority of the city at a relaxing pace. Another great bit of advice: if you have a smartphone you can download an app called”GPSmyCity“. It gives you different walking/biking routes to take that will help maximize your self-guided tour.

Sometimes a bike just isn’t enough. Especially for those days that you want to explore outside of the downtown area, like the plantations or the beaches. Plenty of Ubers are available but theres also a few car rental companies downtown you can utilize for a daily rate. Coming from out the United States? No problem! Be sure to obtain your international driver’s license prior to arrival so you never have issues renting when the day comes.

Charleston Rooftop Bars

You cannot visit Charleston without seeing the skyline from one of our many rooftop bars. The rooftop bars of Charleston are always considered one of the best things to do in Charleston SC, even if you’re not a fan of alcoholic beverages. Most offer some incredible mocktails to indulge in. You can spot the Charleston waterline from some and see the many church steeples from others. Some of our top rooftop bars in Charleston SC include The Citrus Club at the Dewberry Hotel, the Vendue Rooftop Bar near the Market area, and Pour Taproom for beer lovers. Each offers a different perspective of the city.

The Citadel & Hampton Park

Located just 10 minutes northwest of the city center, The Citadel is a prestigious and historic military college established in 1842. Explore its large campus featuring Spanish Moorish-style schools, barracks, and monuments, including the Checkerboard Quadrangle and Summerall Chapel. Nearby, Hampton Park is a local favorite for walking and enjoying a stroll. The park has historical significance and is considered the site of the first Memorial Day in the U.S.

Charleston City Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Charleston City Market, situated in the historic heart of the city. With over 300 stands, this sprawling market offers everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.

Make sure you stop at some of the local restaurants, bars, or ice-cream shops along the road. One of our favorite dessert bars, Carmella’s Dessert Bar & Cafe, is nearby. If you need some late-night pizza, Pizzeria Di Giovanni is amazing!

South Carolina Aquarium

A family favorite since 2010, the South Carolina Aquarium at Charleston Harbor showcases diverse marine life. From alligators to sea turtles, visitors can explore underwater ecosystems and even touch marine animals in a captivating touch tank. The Sea Turtle Care Center is also a highlight, where you can witness marine creature care and rehabilitation.

Take a Ghost Tour

Charleston’s history dates back to the 1600s, so it’s no surprise we have quite a spooky side. Take the time to experience a piece of our haunted history. Bulldog Tours offers some great options, ranging from a visit to the haunted old jail to a paranormal investigation of the USS Yorktown.

Historic Tours on the USS Yorktown

For a deeper dive into Charleston’s rich history, visit the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point. This historic aircraft carrier offers a unique glimpse into naval history, having served in World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War. Explore the extensive exhibits onboard, which include vintage aircraft, interactive displays, and educational tours.

The USS Yorktown also offers guided tours that provide fascinating insights into the lives of the sailors who served on the ship. Whether you’re interested in military history or looking for an educational experience, a visit to the USS Yorktown is a must.

Folly Beach

After exploring the historic city, take a short drive south to Folly Beach for another local favorite on the list of best things to do in Charleston SC. Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf on this Atlantic Ocean coastline, complete with beachfront bars and eateries.

Local Advice: Drive to the north end of Folly Beach and park your car. You’ll find a half-mile blocked-off road that turns into a sand path leading to a viewpoint of the Morris Island Lighthouse. It’s common to find shark’s teeth along the beach here and occasionally see dolphins strand-feeding.

Middleton Place

Discover tranquility at Middleton Place, a vast plantation with the oldest landscaped gardens in the U.S. Tour the grounds and learn about generations of Middletons and the enslaved individuals who shaped the gardens. Middleton Place is also a filming location for the movie “The Patriot.”

Angel Oak

Witness the majesty of Angel Oak, considered one of the oldest and largest living organisms east of the Mississippi. Just 30 minutes southwest of Charleston, this iconic oak tree with sprawling branches is a captivating sight. While there, stop at the Charleston Distillery Co. for a refreshing beverage and a bite to eat.

Sailing Yacht Charters

Looking for a luxurious and private way to enjoy the sights of Charleston from the sea? Blue Life Charters has you covered. Combining Southern hospitality with the fascination of the open seas, this yacht charter will make for an unforgettable experience.

Blue Life Charters operates two charming sailing charter boats: Llibertat and Xocolata. Each offers state-of-the-art interiors and professional staff. Their exclusively private tours include views of Charleston’s iconic sights like Fort Sumter, The Battery, and Waterfront Park. You can choose from a fun-filled daytime harbor tour, or opt for a romantic and magical sunset cruise.

Battery and White Point Gardens

At the southern tip of the peninsula, the Battery and White Point Gardens offer breathtaking views of the harbor. Wander through this park featuring monuments, cannons, and statues, reflecting its military history. The live oaks make for a great scene to relax with a picnic. Start your walk from the city market area down East Bay Street, passing multiple sightseeing opportunities like the Provost Dungeon and Rainbow Row.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Explore the historic Magnolia Plantation, one of the oldest plantations in the South. Wander through romantic gardens, tour the house, and learn about the enslaved individuals who worked on the plantation. The gardens alone are breathtaking, making this a must-visit.

Riley Waterfront Park

Cap off your Charleston adventure at Riley Waterfront Park. A short walk from the historic heart of the city, this park on the Cooper River boasts lush gardens, a wooden pier, and the iconic Pineapple Fountain. The Pineapple symbolizes hospitality, fitting for Charleston. During the summer months, children often play in the water of the Pineapple Fountain and the nearby fountain in the park.

Enjoy a Walking Tour

Charleston’s charm is best appreciated on foot. Join a walking tour to explore the city’s rich history and beautiful architecture. Gullah Tours offers insightful tours highlighting the history and culture of the Gullah people. Walk and Talk Charleston provides engaging historical tours, including the “Classic Charleston History and Historic Gossip Tour.”

Visit the International African American Museum

Opened in 2023, the International African American Museum is located at Gadsden’s Wharf, a significant historical site. The museum showcases African American history through extensive exhibits and the African Ancestors Memorial Garden. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Explore the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

Take a walk or bike ride on the stunning Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge for panoramic views of Charleston and the Cooper River. The bridge has a 12-foot path for pedestrians and bikers. It’s one of the best places to watch the sunset in the city.

Discover Isle of Palms

Located just a short drive from Charleston, Isle of Palms offers a perfect beach getaway with its pristine sands and inviting waters. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. For those looking to enhance their beach experience, Perfect Point Cabana Rentals offers convenient cabana rentals, providing shade and comfort for a day by the sea.

For a more comprehensive experience, consider the beach and boat package tour offered by both Perfect Point and Blue Life Charters. This package includes a relaxing day on Isle of Palms beach followed by a scenic sunset cruise in the Charleston Harbor. Enjoy the best of both worlds with this unique offering, perfect for those who want to explore both land and sea.

Ready to Discover the Magic of Charleston?

Charleston’s allure lies in its ability to seamlessly blend history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to experience luxury boat charters in Charleston, SC, explore the city’s culture, history and architecture or make a weekend out of discovering the hidden gems of Charleston and the surrounding area, Charleston is your perfect summer destination. Discover the top 18 best things to do in Charleston SC for an enriching and memorable journey through the heart of the Old South.

Looking for more local advice to maximize your stay in Charleston? We love giving advice and truly make it our personal goal to ensure your experience in our beautiful city is the best it could possibly be. Read more of our articles for Charleston tips and advice or book one of our private sailing charters in Charleston SC to receive a more personalized experience. We want your Charleston experience to be nothing short of perfect!