There are so many amazing things to do in Charleston, South Carolina. That’s why it is constantly voted the #1 city in the United States. From charming architecture and cobblestone streets, to water-based activities, to history, and a dynamic culinary scene, there is something to capture your interest in Charleston, SC.
In this guide, I’ve curated a collection of the most unique things to do in Charleston, breaking it down into various categories for your convenience. As a local who works in the tourism industry, I’ve personally experienced each of these recommendations, ensuring they reflect the authentic spirit of the city. I recommend them as non-touristy things to do. Okay, some are a little touristy, but that’s the point right? There are plenty of hidden gems and local favorites to explore.
From free activities perfect for budget-conscious travelers to engaging experiences for kids and young adults, this post will help you discover the best of Charleston beyond the typical attractions like Fort Sumter. Read on as I highlight the unique character and charm of this beloved Southern city!
Free Ideas | Tours & Attractions | Food & Beverage | Kids | Young Adults | Annual Events & Festivals
Short on Time? These are a few of the most unique experiences in Charleston, SC!
- Taste Lowcountry Cuisine – this cooking demo & lunch is one of my favorites!
- Historic Walking Tours – my fave walking tour to see all the beauty of CHS!
- Spot Dolphins on a Boat Cruise – seeing dolphins never gets old
- Lowcountry Oyster Co. Farm Tour
- Crabbing with Tia – such a fun experience catching crabs off the dock with a local!
- Attend a Charleston Festival or Event
- Take an Indigo Dyeing Class – fun group activity and the perfect keepsake!
- Learn to make Southern Style Biscuits
Fun & Free Things to Do in Charleston
My favorite unique activities and things to do in Charleston that are completely free!
1. Angel Oak Tree
Visit this unbelievable oak tree on John’s Island. Depends who you ask, but everyone claims it is 500-1,000 years old! It is way more massive than it looks in photos. It is totally worth a visit to be in awe of this iconic tree and true Charleston hidden gem!
2. Visit the Beaches – Folly, Sullivan’s, Isle of Palms
Charleston is known for its amazing coastal towns including Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms. These beaches are always a great place to visit in any season. There is no charge to swim in the sea or build sandcastles on the beach. After, have lunch at the delicious restaurants on the islands.
3. Self Guided Walking Tour
Charleston is a beautiful city so its best to slow down and see it by foot. Do a self guided walking tour to see some of the most iconic sites and historic architecture.
I suggest starting at Waterfront Park, then head South past Rainbow Row, down Tradd Street, up Church Street, and on towards the Battery ending at White Point Gardens. These are some of my favorite streets in the whole city. I’ll go into more detail on some of these sites below.
4. The Battery
The Battery is a major landmark in Charleston. It’s a seawall and promenade that served as a defense artillery battery in the Civil War. It stretches around the Ashley and Cooper Rivers coming to a point at the Charleston Harbor. If you look straight out, you can see Fort Sumter.
5. Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is a stunning park overlooking the Cooper River toward Mount Pleasant. Enjoy a stroll here to see the famous Pineapple Fountain and take in the ocean views.
6. Rainbow Row
Rainbow Row is a row of Georgian-style homes painted in – you guessed it – a rainbow of colors. It’s one of those iconic, charming sites in Charleston that you have to swing by for a photo op! It’s touristy, but so uniquely Charleston and only takes a minute to see.
7. Picnic at Hampton Park
Grab some sandwiches from Goat Sheep Cow and head to Hampton Park to setup a picnic. Hampton Park is a neighborhood park located near The Citadel College. It is the largest park in the city and there is always something beautiful in bloom!
There is plenty of history behind the park. It was originally used as a race track for horses in the late 1700s to early 1800s – Washington Race Course and Jockey Club.
Later, it was the home of the first Memorial Day which took place in the park in 1865. The year prior it had a darker history serving as an outdoor prison for Union Soldiers during the Civil War. Hundreds of prisoners died and were buried in mass graves. On May 1, 1865 a parade to honor those people was held at the park which marked the very first Memorial Day.
8. Walk the Ravenel Bridge for the Best Views
The Arthur Ravenel Bridge is a suspension bridge connecting Mount Pleasant and Downtown. There is a nice walking and biking path that pedestrians can use to cross over. It’s a gorgeous place for a walk or run to see the holy city from above.
9. Explore the Hidden Alleyways
There are so many quaint alley ways in downtown Charleston. See how many you can find. Some of the best are Longitude Lane, Bedon’s Alley, Philadelphia Alley, Stoll’s Alley, and Unity Alley.
10. Window Shop on King Street
King Street is one of the best streets for shopping in the United States. There is a mix of local companies, art galleries, and national retailers. Grab a coffee and window shop as you explore Charleston.
11. Stroll through the Galleries in the Art District
One big section of King Street is filled with art galleries and antique stores. It’s a great area to wander and meet the local artists.
12. Take a Walk Down Shem Creek Park
Take a stroll down the dock at Shem Creek Park to spot dolphins and watch the shrimp boats return home. This is one of my favorite places and things to do in Charleston, South Carolina at sunset!
13. Charleston Tea Garden
The Charleston Tea Garden is America’s only tea farm. You can visit for free which allows you to do their 15 minute factory tour and taste teas in their gift shop! If you want to learn more, for a fee, you can do the 35 minute trolley tour that will drive you around the whole property.
Best Tours to Do in Charleston, South Carolina – Attractions, Museums, and Outdoor Adventures
All of my absolute favorite tours and attractions that you must see on any visit to Charleston!
1. Nathaniel Russel House
The Nathaniel Russel House is a historic home and garden in downtown Charleston. It is my absolute favorite home to tour as it is restored to how the home would have looked back in its day. I love the cantilevered staircase and stories the guides tell as you make your way through the home.
2. Middleton Place
Middleton Place is a much larger home and garden located in West Ashley. It is an English style garden with perfectly manicured plants, rolling green lawns and a lake. I love walking around to see the camellias, hydrangeas, and other flowers in bloom at this Charleston Plantation.
For a really unique way to experience Middleton, check their events calendar and visit after hours for a wine stroll!
3. Walking Tour
If you want to hear all about the history, book a walking tour with one of Charleston’s certified tour guides. I love this tour company and have been on many walking tours with them. It is one the best things to do in Charleston to kick off your trip so your get a lay of the land! And a great way to get some good photos.
Best Charleston Walking Tours:
4. Sunset Sail
I always say, Charleston is best viewed from the water. I love the perspective it gives and lets you see Charleston in a different way. Plus, you will get to see all of the church steeples dotting the skyline. Go for a sunset sail aboard a tall ship and you may even be able to spot dolphins!
Best Sunset Sails in Charleston:
5. International African American Museum
Recently opened in June 2023, the International African American Museum is not to be missed. The museum sits on Gadsden’s Wharf, the site where thousands of enslaved people were brought to America. It showcases African American culture and contributions while sharing untold stories of their experience. I highly recommend visiting this incredible museum.
6. Gibbes Museum of Art
If you are an art lover, plan a visit to the Gibbes Museum of Art to view the latest exhibits. After, take a stroll down King Street to check out the works from local artists.
7. Kayak the Coastal Waterways
Like I said, Charleston is best seen from the water. Rent a kayak or go with a guide to explore the unique waterways of Charleston. You might even get to spot dolphins up close!!
8. Casual Crabbing with Tia
Casual Crabbing with Tia has been named the #1 Airbnb experience in the world. Tia is a native Charlestonian who will take you crabbing with her to learn all about the estuaries and marine life in the area.
I had the absolute best time recently when I finally got to try this. You will have WAY more fun than you imagine and will be so impressed by Tia!
9. Indigo Dyeing Class with CHI Design
Another fantastic way to immerse yourself in Charleston’s rich culture is by taking an indigo dyeing class. This hands-on experience allows you to explore the art of dyeing fabric with indigo, a tradition deeply rooted in Southern craftsmanship. You’ll learn about the dyeing process while creating your own unique textile piece to take home.
Top Things to Do in Charleston, SC
Food and Beverage Related Things to Do in Charleston
Charleston is a foodie city so there is plenty to do related to food and beverage. Here are some of the best tours and activities.
Leisurely tip: be sure to book your dinner reservations early!
1. Have High Tea at Camellias
Camellias is an all PINK bar – the walls, the furniture, the wallpaper. Everything is dripping in shades of pink. Make a reservation to have afternoon tea – and of course you can have champagne too.
2. Culinary Tour
Take a culinary tour to sample some of the best examples of Lowcountry cuisine and learn how Charleston became a foodie destination.
Best Culinary Tours in Charleston:
3. Take a Somm Class at Wine and Company
If you love wine, you will love the somm class hosted by Sarah at Wine and Company. Sign up on their website for a Saturday class where you will be one step closer to your somm certification.
4. Brewery Hop
Hop around to the many breweries in Charleston. It has become quite the popular town for craft brewers. My favorites are:
- Palmetto Brewing
- Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co (get the peanut butter and jelly beer)
- Munkle
- Westbrook
- Low Tide
- Revelry Brewing
- Holy City Brewery
- Lo-fi
5. Visit the Charleston Farmers Market
On Sundays, you can visit the Charleston Farmers Market at Marion Square to shop for fresh produce, local products, and grab breakfast.
6. Halls Gospel Brunch
Halls is a super popular steakhouse in Charleston, but on Sunday’s they host their gospel brunch. It’s exactly what it sounds like – all of your favorite breakfast plates, bloody mary’s, and mimosas while enjoying performances by a local gospel group!
7. Take a Farm Tour with Lowcountry Oyster Co.
One of the best unique experiences in Charleston is the Lowcountry Oyster Company’s farm tours. These informative tours take you on a journey through the entire process of growing and shipping oysters, from seed to table.
Located just outside of Charleston, the tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at sustainable oyster farming and the importance of these bivalves to the local ecosystem. Participants get to see firsthand how oysters are cultivated and learn about their role in the community, making it a perfect outing for seafood lovers and anyone interested in local food production.
8. Make Southern Style Biscuits at Callie’s
Additionally, don’t miss the chance to learn how to make Southern-style biscuits, a beloved staple of Lowcountry cuisine. In these engaging classes, you’ll master the techniques to create flaky, buttery biscuits from scratch, perfecting a recipe that has been passed down through generations.
Things to do in Charleston SC with Kids
Charleston is a very family friendly city with plenty for everyone to enjoy. Here are few things we love to do with kids in Charleston!
1. South Carolina Aquarium
Personally, I think our aquarium is fabulous. You will find all kinds of animals local to the area – birds, sharks, stingrays, alligators, beavers, a bald eagle, and plenty of fish!
My favorite part is the Sea Turtle Hospital where you can watch the staff heal these amazing creatures so they can be released back into the sea.
They also have great daily programming for kids, from touch tanks to mermaids to engaging lessons on their work.
2. Charleston Children’s Museum
For young kids under 10, take them to the Children’s Museum for hands-on exhibits. They do daily programming to engage your kids with activities in science, art, and more. It’s perfect for babies that can at least crawl through 10 years.
3. Magnolia Plantation
I love Magnolia Plantation for kids because there is so much to engage them. They have an amazing animal zoo and nature center so your kids can get up close with wildlife. Think everything from peacocks, deer, owls, foxes, and birds of prey! In addition, there is a swap garden and tram ride where they will see tons of wildlife in their natural habitat.
4. Tractor Ride at Boone Hall
Boone Hall is another great choice for the kids. There is so much to do throughout the year on this working farm – strawberry picking, pumpkin patch, and even a corn maze at Halloween.
Kids will love the tractor ride that cruises around the almost 800 acre plantation showing you the ins and outs of the farm.
5. Animal Forest at Charles Towne Landing
Charles Towne Landing is the birthplace of Charleston where the original settlers lived. There is tons of room for kids to run around.
They will especially love the animal forest where they can see animals that were native at the time of settlement like bison, deer, puma, wild turkey, black bears, and more. They’ll also enjoy the replica 17th-century trading vessel that they can board and explore.
6. Attend a Riverdogs Baseball Game
Charleston is home to the Tampa Bay Rays affiliate minor league team, The Charleston Riverdogs. Head over to the Joe Riley Park for a baseball game during the spring and summer.
Best Things to do in Charleston for Young Adults
Things to do in Charleston with your teenagers – I think they will enjoy these fun activities!
1. Ghost Tour
Ghost Tours are always fun (and spooky). As the night grows dark, take a tour exploring Charleston’s mysterious side with fun ghost stories – maybe you’ll even spot one!
2. Shopping on King Street and Second Sunday
Any teenage girl will love shopping on King Street. It’s filled with local boutiques, national retailers, and local artisans.
Every 2nd Sunday of the month, there is Second Sunday on King street where they close the road to traffic so you can stroll at your leisure. There will be performers, expanded outdoor dining, and fun things from retailers.
3. Take a Fishing Trip
Book a fishing charter to take the kids out for the day. Enjoy the waterways as you fish for in-shore species like redfish, trout, flounder, black drum and more.
4. Spot Dolphins while Paddleboarding
Rent a couple paddleboards and let them explore the waterways whether beachside or in a creek. There are also organized tours so they will be safe with a guide. I don’t care how old you are, I never tire of seeing dolphins!
5. Surf Lessons at Folly Beach
Your kids have probably never seen Blue crush, but let them live out their surfer girl (or guy) dreams with a surf lesson at Folly Beach. My niece and nephew love surf camp during the summertime. It is truly good for any age.
6. Comedy Show at Theater 99
If your kids are a little older (18+) then take them to an improv comedy show. These are definitely not “clean family fun”, but depending on your particular family or ages, this could be fun! Definitely book the earlier show time.
7. Casual Crabbing
Mentioned this above, but is a great activity to do as a family. Casual Crabbing with Tia has been named the #1 Airbnb experience. Tia is a native Charlestonian who will take you crabbing with her to learn all about the estuaries and marine life in the area.
8. Culinary Tour
Also mentioned above, but what kids don’t like to eat? Take a culinary tour to sample some of the best examples of Lowcountry cuisine and learn how Charleston became a foodie destination.
Charleston Annual Festivals and Events
There is always something going on in Charleston. Here are all the annual festivals and events that are worth your time, sorted by month!
January – Lowcountry Oyster Festival, Charleston Restaurant Week
February – Southeastern Wildlife Expo
March – Charleston Wine and Food Festival, Summerville Flowertown Festival
April – Cooper River Bridge Run, Credit One Open, Blessing of the Fleet
May and June – Spoleto Festival USA, Piccolo Spoleto, North Charleston Arts Festival
July – 4th of July Fireworks Display
August – Lowcountry Jazz Festival
September – Charleston Food and Wine Classic
October – Fall Tour of Homes
November – Charleston Oyster Week
December – Holiday Festival of Lights, Christmas in Charleston
And, those are all of my best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina! Let me know any questions in the comments below – I love talking about Charleston 🙂
If You Go to Charleston
Also, check out these posts to plan your vacation!
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