Best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina is a very popular place to visit. It has a great nightlife scene with top-notch restaurants and bars. There is a rich history in this area, and you’re very close to the water if natural beauty is what you’re craving. If you’re trying to plan a trip to this area, there are some things you should try to fit onto your list before you head home. No matter how much time you spend here and seeing all the top things to check out, you’re going to want to come back for more.
Nathaniel Russell House
Nathaniel Russell was a shipping merchant and slave trader in the year of 1765. His house is nothing short of magnificent. It was designed to catch a person’s eye. From the ‘NR’ initials created out of wrought iron on the front door to the luxurious finishing on the inside, the Nathaniel Russell House is also a fascinating place to learn more about the time of the 19th-century slaves and go through some plantation tours.
Photo by Shelley Pauls
Charleston Farmers Market
If you’re visiting between April through December, Marion Square’s Farmers Market is a must-see. Tents line the paths in the Square, with plenty of local produce, crafts, and foods to enjoy. There are plenty of samples to try, and you can make a meal out of all the goodies you’ll find here. You can take home some local honey or grab some sweets for later. It’s just a really nice place to take a stroll and relax for a bit. You can even chat with some of the locals. They’re incredibly friendly, and they’ll give you some information on where you should head to next in the area.
The Carolina Music Hall
Some of the best musicians of all time have played here. Aside from concerts, the Music Hall also hosts movie nights, independent acts, Christmas concerts, and much more. The local Jazz Orchestra plays some of the best shows you can attend. Check to see what will be going on at the Music Hall when you’re planning your trip. You can usually grab some affordable tickets ahead of time if you know when you’ll be visiting.
The Charleston South Carolina Museum
It’s always nice to soak up some local history when you’re on a trip. The Charleston South Carolina Museum is the best place to stop when you’re in town. If you’re traveling through on a cold day or in the sweltering summer months, this is a great place to get indoors for a bit. The museum itself was created in 1773, with plenty of new items and displays created since then. It’s a local treasure to many people, with the two-story lobby being quite the sight thanks to a suspended whale that is well known for swimming into the Charleston South Carolina Harbor in 1880. It’s definitely a great place to stop and take a photo or two.
Kiawah Island, SC
Kiawah Island Golf Resort
The Carolinas are well known for their golf courses. People take trips from all over the United States to golf on courses such as Kiawah Island. This golf resort is just 45 minutes from the historic district. It’s very scenic, as Kiawah is tucked away behind a tunnel of oak trees. You’ll feel like you’re in a completely different area of the world when you’re golfing here. In addition to world-class golfing, you can enjoy fine dining, kayaking, and tennis at Kiawah. The resort is a 5-Diamond hotel, according to AAA.
Sullivan’s Island Beach
If you’re coming to South Carolina, you should try to plan your trip in the summer months of June, July, or August. Sullivan’s Island Beach is located in the local harbor. There are some lovely cottages where you can stay here (try to plan ahead as early as possible, though). There is beautiful white sand as far as the eye can see. You’ll want just to kick back and enjoy the sights and sounds of this area. There are also some natural paths that you can take a short walk on if you want to get moving a bit during the day.
Outdoor Tours
There are plenty of outdoor tours that go through the local streets. You can hop on a horse-drawn carriage, relax in a pedicab, or head out on a walking tour. You can also plan your own route on foot. If you start around the Waterfront Park area, you can scoot through the Colonial City Wall, East Bay, White Point Gardens, and Legare. There are gorgeous homes and picturesque nature views to look at along the way. The best time of year to enjoy outdoor activities such as this is between May and September. If you’re from further up north, you won’t mind the balmy temperatures in early spring or late fall. April is a great time to visit, with temperatures usually peaking at about 70 during the day. Cooler nights are very pleasant.
The Preservation Society
Everyone loves to shop for some souvenirs when they’re traveling. There are plenty of historical items and fun items alike. If you stop by the local Preservation Society, you’ll be able to find books, gifts, snacks, housewares, and clothing. It’s a great place to stop if you’re getting overwhelmed with the heat in the summer months. In the winter, you can grab some coffee here as you warm up and plan your next stop.
The Angel Oak Tree
It won’t take up a lot of your time, but The Angel Oak Tree is a gorgeous spot to stop and take some photos. This tree has been on Johns Island for over 400 years now. There is a small gift shop nearby with knowledgeable locals. The tree’s existence was in jeopardy a few years back when an apartment complex was being discussed. Now, those more than 500 apartments got shut down by the locals who love this area so much.
Whether you’re driving or flying to a nearby airport, this is a great location to stop and spend some time for vacation. The weather gets a bit chilly around November to March months, but there’s still a lot you can do. Ideally, you’ll want to travel there in warmer weather so you can take in all the beauty of the beaches and nature in full bloom. You can look up current forecasts to help plan your upcoming trip, or you can look back on the weather history to pick the best time of year for your visit. Make sure to balance the local history with the beauty that it has to offer. Don’t forget to enjoy some local cuisine and the best things to drink while you’re in town.
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