Are you thinking about taking your next vacation to Charleston, South Carolina? Then you might be wondering just what to do in this amazing city! The city of Charleston has so much history and culture, and you won’t regret visiting this beautiful place. Here are some of the top things to do in Charleston.
Lowcountry Cuisine
The cuisine of South Carolina’s Lowcountry is not just some of America’s best; it’s some of America’s best—period. The region, which makes up much of coastal South Carolina, is home to delectable dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, fried oysters and cane syrup bread pudding. And that’s just a small sample.
Shopping on King Street
King Street is lined with several clothing boutiques, shops, antique stores and other retail outlets. Head on over after your tour to take advantage of many great shopping opportunities in historic downtown Charleston. Plan on spending an entire day there . You’ll find that no matter how long you stay, there will always be more shops and restaurants to discover. This shopping area is located close by many of the city’s most popular attractions like The Old Slave Mart Museum and Historic District. Wanting more?
The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Visitors can stroll through 1,000 acres of gardens, go horseback riding or have a picnic on expansive grounds. The iconic Gone with the Wind house is also worth a visit. Continue south on Highway 17 and stop by Boone Hall Plantation and its golf course designed by Arnold Palmer. South Carolina’s coast is less than an hour away from downtown Charleston. Before heading there, make sure you tour Fort Sumter, where Confederate forces surrendered to Union soldiers at the start of Civil War.
Waterfront Park by Night
This gorgeous park is a favorite for both locals and tourists. Home to some of Charleston’s most stunning sunsets, Waterfront Park is a perfect place for an evening stroll or early morning jog. Walkers will love the path that lines East Bay Street from one end of town to another. Locals come here after work during warm weather months to catch up with friends over drinks, watch kayakers and paddle boarders on Shem Creek, or just sit back and enjoy everything that makes life sweet.
Battery Park Marina & Rainbow Row
The heart of downtown Charleston, including many historical buildings and tourist attractions, lies between Broad Street and Ashley River. The best place to start a tour is Battery Park Marina. It is also called Old Naval Hospital located on Concord Street near King Street. This area is known for its colorful row of houses along East Bay Street. They are commonly referred to as Rainbow Row or Trolley Line due to their past use as trolley stops for city transportation.
River Street Walking Tour
The River Street walking tour is considered one of Charleston’s top free attractions. Stretching from Ansonborough, down through Upper King and ending at Archdale Park on Meeting Street. It encompasses a wide range of both old and new architecture while highlighting some of Old Charleston’s most famous spots. Along River Street, you’ll see places like City Hall, which was built in 1873. Also, Wentworth Mansion; and Mills House Hotel, which dates back to 1852.
Shrimp & Grits in Charleston
Southern food at its finest, shrimp and grits is a traditional staple served on Lowcountry tables. As you take a bite of perfectly seared shrimp atop creamy cheese grits, you’ll instantly understand why it’s one of South Carolina’s most revered dishes. With Shrimp & Grits restaurants dotting major cities like Downtown Charleston and West Ashley, there’s no excuse not to give it a try!
