30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Charleston | Apr 2025
Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour
Travel by horse-drawn carriage along the picturesque streets of Charleston and take in the history of this South Carolina city.
4.80 (8715 reviews)
From $48.00
Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry
Visit historic Fort Sumter with the only operator in Charleston providing Admission to Fort Sumer National Monument and Round-Trip Ferry Transportation from Liberty Square or Patriots Point.
4.57 (2600 reviews)
From $40.00
Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise
During this scenic and relaxing 90 minute tour you will experience Charleston Harbor on the unique 80-foot Carolina Belle.
4.40 (2700 reviews)
From $44.00
Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston
On this twilight tour, discover where spirits are reported to linger in downtown Charleston. A licensed guide will regale you with spooky tales from Charleston's long history as you pass haunted alleys, graveyards, churches, hotels and even a dungeon! .
4.69 (2619 reviews)
From $48.00
Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
On our Secret Food Tour: Charleston, let our experienced guides take you on a foodie adventure through the picturesque and historic streets of the French Quarter.
4.86 (1285 reviews)
From $110.00
Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Relax and experience beautiful panoramic views aboard the Spirit of Carolina on this 2. 5-Hour Luxury Dinner Cruise of Charleston Harbor.
4.17 (487 reviews)
From $88.60
Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor
Meet us at Aquarium Wharf near Concord St. and Calhoun St. in Charleston SC as you experience historic Charleston Harbor aboard our classic 84-foot Tall Ship for a unique sailing experience.
4.48 (431 reviews)
From $54.50
Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
Every corner of Charleston hides a world of history. Join us as your guide shares with you hundreds of years of stories, history, and local knowledge.
4.91 (5331 reviews)
From $26.50
90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour
On this historical Charleston tour, journey back in time as your guide reveals the beauty and charm of one of America's most historic cities.
4.47 (1136 reviews)
From $37.10
Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket
DAYS AND HOURS OF OPERATION Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday 12pm-5pm Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day Boone Hall Plantation has been recognized as the #1 Plantation In The Charleston Area by USA TODAY 10 BEST and is also touted as a "must see stop on any trip to Charleston, S.
4.53 (1417 reviews)
From $28.00
Charleston Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse
Join us for a 2. 5-hour group boat cruise through the cherished tidal creeks of Charleston, South Carolina. This excursion includes an enlightening hour-long stop on the picturesque Morris Island, giving you the opportunity to explore its untouched beach, collect seashells, search for shark teeth, and admire the historic lighthouse.
4.95 (1916 reviews)
From $56.00
Charleston Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Explore Historic Charleston
Embark on a captivating 1-Hour Daytime Palmetto Carriage Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour through Charleston's historic downtown district.
4.78 (2956 reviews)
From $49.95
Downtown Charleston Food Tour
This Downtown Culinary Tour is provided by CHARLESTON CULINARY TOURS, the longest-running food tour company in Charleston.
4.71 (1208 reviews)
From $110.00
Private Luxury Sailing Charters, BYOB & Dolphins
We are a family owned luxury sailing charter business. Come enjoy a BYOB day of sailing and seeing the historic sites of Charleston from the water on one of our sailboats.
5.00 (347 reviews)
From $499.00
Ghosts of Charleston Night-Time Walking Tour with Unitarian Church Graveyard
Come walk with us on The Ghosts of Charleston walking tour, leaving nightly from Buxton Books, Charleston’s independent bookstore located at 160 King Street.
4.59 (2623 reviews)
From $32.50
Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour
Explore some of Charleston's enchanting alleyways and historic sites on this small group, 2-hour walking tour. With our small group tours, you are guaranteed a more intimate and up-close experience.
4.91 (2094 reviews)
From $32.00
Magnolia Plantation Tour with Transportation and Admission
The Magnolia Plantation tour is an all-inclusive tour experience of America's oldest botanical gardens. Guests will experience a variety of tours at Magnolia Plantation.
4.36 (28 reviews)
From $125.00
Boone Hall Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston
Step back in time with a 4. 5-hour visit to one of America's oldest working, living plantations. Be transported to this historic site with an experienced driver on a comfortable, air conditioned mini bus.
4.30 (406 reviews)
From $78.18
2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston
Embark on a guided, eco-based kayaking adventure through the saltwater estuaries of Folly Creek, navigating a network of tidal creeks that wind around uninhabited hammock islands.
4.89 (876 reviews)
From $54.00
Real Hauntings of Charleston! (Small Group Ghost Tour)
Many Charleston Ghost Tours have big groups of 25+ - NOT HERE!! We limit our tour sizes to about 12 to keep them fun! Charleston is one of the most charming and colorful cities in the world; however, when the light fades and shadows grow long, a darker side of the Holy City emerges.
4.89 (386 reviews)
From $35.00
Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour
Tour in comfort and safety as we show you the beauty of the Holy City. Let us do the driving as you relax and watch as 300 years of history pass by your window.
4.87 (1236 reviews)
From $47.50
Magnolia Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston
Enjoy this 4. 5-hour tour of Magnolia Plantation and see the plantation has stood the test of time dating back to 1676. One of America's most important historical sights, you will travel in comfort on board an air conditioned coach.
4.46 (740 reviews)
From $96.30
Create Your Very Own Custom Perfume or Cologne in Charleston - Mix and Match
Tijon is a unique make-your-own fragrance experience not found elsewhere. Original location is on the French side of the island of St.
4.97 (74 reviews)
From $99.00
Charleston's Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour
Hear some of Charleston's most fascinating and terrifying ghost encounters, history and folklore from Mike Brown, Charleston native and host of the popular Pleasing Terrors Podcast, which has been featured on television and radio shows including the BBC, HGTV, Voice of America Radio and Destination America's Ghost Asylum and has been giving tours for over thirty years.
4.81 (1231 reviews)
From $29.00
Charleston Haunted Jail Night-Time Walking Tour with Admission to Old City Jail
Join us for a memorable tour of the ground level of the Old City Jail, which housed some of Charleston’s most infamous criminals, 19th-century pirates, and Civil War prisoners.
4.35 (551 reviews)
From $40.00
Outer Banks Film Locations Tour
WELCOME TO THE OFFICIAL OBX FILM LOCATIONS TOUR! Fans of the Netflix series Outer Banks are in for a thrill! As a background actor on Season One, Two, Three AND Four, I share tons of behind-the-scenes stories of the cast, crew, and other fun stuff.
4.96 (142 reviews)
From $199.00
Folly River Morris Island Dolphin and Exploration Adventure
Our tour is perfect for families, friends, couples, or a solo adventure. We are also pet friendly! The water way is calm with land close in sight, so you won’t need to worry about getting sea sick or wet.
5.00 (16 reviews)
From $85.00
USS Yorktown Ghost Tour with Exclusive Night-Time Access
Come aboard The USS Yorktown and hear the stories of the American Heroes who lived, died, and are still rumored to be here today.
4.87 (61 reviews)
From $40.00
Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour
Walk, talk and taste your way through historic Charleston South Carolina. This small-group 2. 5-hour tour will immerse you in the history and culture of the Lowcountry and allow you to experience a remarkable culinary scene in downtown Charleston.
4.64 (872 reviews)
From $110.00
Paranormal Investigation: YOU are the Ghost Hunter
Collect paranormal evidence using our tools in a small group setting of up to twelve ghost hunters total. This is not your average ghost storytelling tour, this is an interactive experience to learn the history of Charleston by being part of the story.
4.92 (304 reviews)
From $79.00
What activities can I do in Charleston?
1. Visit the Historic District: Explore the beautiful cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and historic landmarks like the Battery, Rainbow Row, and the Nathaniel Russell House. 2. Take a carriage ride: Enjoy a leisurely carriage ride through the historic streets of Charleston while learning about its history and architecture from knowledgeable guides. 3. Tour the plantations: Visit the nearby plantations like Boone Hall Plantation, Magnolia Plantation, and Middleton Place to learn about the region's history and see stunning gardens and preserved slave quarters. 4. Explore the Charleston City Market: Browse through the market's stalls filled with local crafts, artwork, and food. Don't forget to try the famous sweetgrass baskets made by local artisans. 5. Take a boat tour: Explore Charleston's waterways by taking a boat tour. You can go on a harbor tour, sunset cruise, or even a dolphin-watching excursion. 6. Visit the Charleston Museum: Learn about the city's rich history at the Charleston Museum, which is the oldest museum in the United States. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, including Civil War memorabilia. 7. Relax at the beaches: Charleston is known for its beautiful beaches. Spend a day at Folly Beach, Sullivan's Island, or Isle of Palms, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. 8. Take a food tour: Charleston is a food lover's paradise. Join a food tour to sample the city's famous dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and low country boil. 9. Visit the Gibbes Museum of Art: Explore the Gibbes Museum, which showcases American art from the colonial period to the present. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and offers art classes and workshops. 10. Enjoy the nightlife: Charleston has a vibrant nightlife scene. Head to King Street, where you'll find a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues to enjoy a night out on the town.
When is the best time to travel to Charleston?
The best time to travel to Charleston, USA is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit (15-30 degrees Celsius). The city also experiences less rainfall during these seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the historic sites. Additionally, Charleston hosts several popular events and festivals during the spring and fall, such as the Charleston Wine + Food Festival in March and the MOJA Arts Festival in September. These events showcase the city's vibrant food, arts, and cultural scenes, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit. However, it's worth noting that Charleston can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in the spring when many people visit for the blooming azaleas and other flowers. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (early spring or late fall) when the weather is still pleasant but the tourist numbers are lower. Overall, the best time to travel to Charleston, USA is during the spring and fall seasons for a combination of great weather, fewer crowds, and exciting events.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Charleston
Charleston, located in South Carolina, is a city rich in history, culture, and southern charm. Known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful gardens, Charleston offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Here are some highlights of Charleston's travel culture: 1. Historic District: The heart of Charleston is its historic district, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here, you can explore the city's well-preserved antebellum homes, churches, and public buildings. The area is best explored on foot or by horse-drawn carriage, allowing you to take in the architectural beauty and learn about the city's history. 2. Gullah Culture: Charleston has a strong Gullah culture, which is a unique African-American community with deep roots in the Lowcountry. Gullah people have preserved their African traditions, language, and cuisine, making it a fascinating aspect of Charleston's cultural heritage. Visitors can experience Gullah culture through various tours, exhibits, and events. 3. Culinary Scene: Charleston is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, which blends traditional southern cuisine with modern twists. From seafood specialties like shrimp and grits to classic southern dishes like fried chicken and collard greens, there is a wide range of options to satisfy your taste buds. The city also hosts numerous food festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating the local food culture. 4. Arts and Music: Charleston has a thriving arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and performance venues. The city hosts the annual Spoleto Festival USA, a world-renowned arts festival that showcases a variety of performances, including opera, theater, dance, and music. Additionally, you can find live music in various venues throughout the city, ranging from jazz and blues to bluegrass and country. 5. Plantations and Gardens: Charleston's surrounding area is home to several historic plantations and beautiful gardens. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Middleton Place, and Boone Hall Plantation are popular attractions where visitors can learn about the region's plantation history, stroll through stunning gardens, and take guided tours. 6. Festivals and Events: Charleston hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year that showcase the city's vibrant culture. The Charleston Wine + Food Festival, Charleston Fashion Week, and the Charleston International Film Festival are just a few examples of the many events that attract visitors from around the world. 7. Southern Hospitality: One of the defining aspects of Charleston's travel culture is its renowned southern hospitality. Locals are known for their warmth, friendliness, and willingness to share their love for their city. Visitors can expect to be welcomed with open arms and experience a genuine sense of hospitality throughout their stay. Overall, Charleston's travel culture is a unique blend of history, culture, cuisine, and hospitality. Whether you're exploring the historic district, indulging in delicious southern food, or immersing yourself in the arts scene, Charleston offers a memorable travel experience that captures the essence of the American South.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Charleston
When visiting Charleston, USA, there are several shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider bringing back home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some popular options: 1. Sweetgrass Baskets: Handwoven sweetgrass baskets are a traditional craft of the Gullah community in Charleston. These baskets are unique and make for a beautiful and functional souvenir. 2. Charleston Tea: Charleston is known for its tea culture, and you can find a variety of locally blended teas that make for a delicious and refreshing souvenir. Look for blends like Charleston Breakfast Tea or Charleston Mint Tea. 3. Palmetto Rose: Palmetto roses are made from the leaves of the state tree, the palmetto palm. These intricate roses are often sold by local artisans in the historic district and make for a lovely keepsake. 4. Handmade Jewelry: Charleston has a thriving arts and crafts scene, and you can find beautiful handmade jewelry made by local artisans. Look for pieces that incorporate seashells, gemstones, or Charleston-inspired designs. 5. Gourmet Food Products: Charleston is known for its culinary scene, so consider bringing back some local gourmet food products. This could include items like benne wafers (sesame seed cookies), grits, hot sauce, or locally made jams and preserves. 6. Historic Prints and Artwork: Charleston's rich history and stunning architecture make it a great place to find historic prints and artwork. Look for prints of iconic landmarks like Rainbow Row or the Battery, or consider purchasing artwork from one of the many local galleries. 7. Charleston Cookbooks: If you're a foodie or enjoy cooking, consider picking up a Charleston cookbook. These cookbooks often feature traditional Lowcountry recipes that you can recreate at home. 8. Charleston-themed Clothing and Accessories: Show off your love for Charleston by purchasing clothing or accessories with the city's name or iconic imagery. Look for t-shirts, hats, or tote bags that showcase the charm of Charleston. Remember to explore the local markets, boutiques, and art galleries in Charleston to find unique and authentic souvenirs that capture the essence of this beautiful city.
Charleston travel review
Charleston, USA: A Southern Gem Nestled along the southeastern coast of the United States, Charleston stands as a testament to the rich history and charm of the American South. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and vibrant culture, this city offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Charleston has something to offer everyone. One of the city's most notable features is its well-preserved historic district. Walking through the cobblestone streets of downtown Charleston feels like stepping back in time. The elegant mansions and colorful row houses showcase the city's architectural heritage, with styles ranging from Georgian and Federal to Greek Revival and Victorian. The Battery, a promenade along the waterfront, offers breathtaking views of Charleston Harbor and the iconic Rainbow Row, a series of pastel-colored homes that are a photographer's dream. For history buffs, Charleston is a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered. The city played a significant role in the American Revolution and the Civil War, and its historical sites and museums offer a glimpse into the past. The Charleston Museum, founded in 1773, is the oldest museum in the United States and houses an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of Charleston's history. Fort Sumter National Monument, located in the harbor, is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired and is a must-visit for any history enthusiast. Beyond its historical significance, Charleston is also known for its vibrant culinary scene. With a mix of traditional Southern cuisine and innovative farm-to-table restaurants, the city has become a food lover's paradise. Indulge in Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes, or savor the flavors of international cuisine at one of the many upscale eateries. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of sweet tea or a craft cocktail made with locally distilled spirits. In addition to its history and food, Charleston offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, where you'll find blooming azaleas, ancient oak trees, and stunning views of the Ashley River. For a day at the beach, head to nearby Folly Beach or Isle of Palms, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the Atlantic Ocean, or try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking. Charleston's cultural scene is also thriving, with art galleries, theaters, and music venues scattered throughout the city. The Gibbes Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of American art, while the Dock Street Theatre, the oldest theater in the country, hosts a variety of performances, from plays and musicals to ballet and opera. The Spoleto Festival USA, held annually in May and June, brings together artists from around the world for a celebration of music, dance, and theater. Whether you're strolling through its historic streets, savoring its culinary delights, or immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, Charleston captivates visitors with its Southern charm and hospitality. With its rich history, diverse cuisine, and natural beauty, this city offers a truly unforgettable travel experience. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore all that Charleston, USA has to offer.