Outdoor Activities
Charleston's mild climate makes it a paradise for garden enthusiasts, especially during springtime. Take a leisurely stroll through iconic gardens like Middleton Place, Boone Hall (where parts of The Notebook were filmed) or Magnolia Plantation (America’s oldest gardens circa the late 1600s), where you'll encounter colorful blooms and lush landscapes.
You can continue to discover the city’s rich history by visiting its historic cemeteries. Places like the Circular Congregational Church Graveyard and the Unitarian Church Cemetery offer insight into the city's past, with ornate tombstones and fascinating stories of the departed. The Charleston Cemetery Historic District (CCHD) comprises 23 religiously and culturally diverse cemeteries from the 1800s and 1900s, including African American burial sites, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The main shopping area and one of the most beautiful streets in Charleston, King Street is a great place to sightsee, shop, and grab a bite or a drink. Rainbow Row, a series of thirteen pastel-colored historic houses in the city, is stunning and also cannot be missed. The homes, built in the late 18th century, are located at 79 to 107 East Bay Street. You can sign up for a guided walking tour that will take you through the neighborhood if you prefer.
Charleston Waterfront Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, offering breathtaking views of the Charleston harbor. And just a short drive from Charleston, Kiawah Island offers pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and nature trails.
Known for its laid-back atmosphere and pristine shoreline, Folly Beach offers the perfect escape from the city, just 20 minutes away by car. Whether you're sunbathing, surfing, or simply strolling along the shore, Folly Beach provides a relaxing retreat. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby marshes and visit the historic Morris Island Lighthouse.
Museums & Cultural Attractions
Visit the Charleston Museum (the oldest museum in the U.S.), the Gibbes Museum of Art, and the International African American Museum, which explores the history, culture, and impact of the African American journey on Charleston, the nation, and the world.
A historic market complex established in the late 1700s, Charleston City Market (which is the length of four city blocks) is the perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture and shop for unique souvenirs, from sweetgrass baskets to gourmet foods.
Accessible by ferry, Fort Sumter National Monument is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
