40 Unique Things To Do In Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina, is steeped in history, charm, and natural beauty. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and vibrant culinary scene, Charleston offers many unique experiences for visitors and locals alike.

From exploring historic landmarks to indulging in world-class cuisine, this Southern gem has something for everyone. Here are 40 unique things to do in Charleston, SC, that will make your visit unforgettable.

Unique Activities To Do In Charleston Sunset Cruise

  • Take a horse-drawn carriage tour through the historic district and learn about the city’s rich past.
  • Visit the Charleston City Market, a historic market featuring local artisans, crafters, and food vendors.
  • Explore the beautiful gardens and intricate interiors of the Nathaniel Russell House Museum.
  • Stroll through the vibrant streets of the French Quarter and admire the colorful row houses.
  • Take a sunset cruise along the Charleston Harbor and enjoy stunning city skyline views.
  • Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum and learn about the city’s complex history of slavery and the slave trade.
  • Indulge in a traditional Lowcountry boil featuring fresh shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage.
  • Explore the stunning Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, one of the oldest plantations in the South.
  • Take a ghost tour through the city’s haunted streets and learn about Charleston’s spooky past.
  • Visit the Gibbes Museum of Art and admire the impressive American and Southern art collection.

Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum

 

  • Sample delicious local seafood at the famous Hank’s Seafood Restaurant.
  • Take a day trip to the beautiful beaches of Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island.
  • Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Charleston Museum, the oldest museum in the United States.
  • Visit the Aiken-Rhett House Museum and learn about the lives of wealthy Charlestonians in the antebellum era.
  • Take a culinary tour of the city and sample some of Charleston’s best restaurants and food trucks.
  • Stroll through the beautiful Washington Square Park and admire the historic homes and churches.
  • Visit the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site and learn about the city’s colonial history.
  • Take a brewery tour and sample some of Charleston’s best craft beers.
  • Explore the stunning Angel Oak Tree, a massive live oak tree over 500 years old.
  • Visit the Edmondston-Alston House and learn about the city’s role in the Civil War.

Charleston Museum

  • Take a kayaking tour through the city’s scenic waterways and estuaries.
  • Indulge in a traditional Southern brunch at the famous Hominy Grill.
  • Explore the beautiful Middleton Place, a National Historic Landmark featuring stunning gardens and historic buildings.
  • Visit the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon and learn about the city’s role in the American Revolution.
  • Take a walking tour of the city’s historic cemeteries and learn about the lives of famous Charlestonians.
  • Sample delicious Lowcountry cuisine at the award-winning FIG restaurant.
  • Explore the beautiful Drayton Hall, a stunning example of Georgian-Palladian architecture.
  • Visit the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art and admire the work of emerging and established artists.
  • Take a day trip to the beautiful Kiawah Island and enjoy world-class golfing and beachcombing.
  • Explore the stunning Audubon Swamp Garden and spot local wildlife like alligators and herons.

Charleston City Market

  • Visit the Charleston Tea Plantation and learn about the history and production of American Classic Tea.
  • Take a sunset stroll along the famous Battery and admire the stunning antebellum mansions.
  • Indulge in a traditional Lowcountry oyster roast and savor the delicious, salty flavors.
  • Explore the beautiful Hampton Park and admire the stunning floral displays and live oak trees.
  • Visit the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum and view the impressive historic documents and manuscript collections.

Unique Activities To Do In Charleston Hampton Park

  • Take a day trip to the charming town of Beaufort and explore its historic homes and waterfront.
  • Sample delicious local chocolates at the Christophe Artisan Chocolatier-Pâtissier.
  • Explore the stunning Cypress Gardens and take a boat tour through the blackwater swamp.
  • Visit the Charleston Crafts Gallery and admire the work of local artisans and craftspeople.
  • Take a sunset dolphin-watching cruise and spot playful dolphins frolicking in the Charleston Harbor.

40 Unique Things To Do In Charleston SC 1

These 40 unique things to do in Charleston, SC, showcase the city’s rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. From exploring historic landmarks to indulging in world-class cuisine, there is something for everyone in this charming Southern city. One of the best things about Charleston is its commitment to preserving its history and cultural heritage. From the stunning antebellum mansions to the cobblestone streets and historic churches, the city is a living museum that offers a glimpse into the past. Whether you’re exploring the Old Slave Mart Museum or taking a walking tour of the city’s historic cemeteries, you’ll be able to learn about the city’s complex and fascinating history.

cypress gardens In Charleston

In addition to its rich history, Charleston is known for its stunning natural beauty. From the beautiful beaches of Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island to the lush gardens of Magnolia Plantation and Middleton Place, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.

Whether you’re kayaking through the city’s scenic waterways or taking a sunset cruise along the Charleston Harbor, you’ll be able to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. Of course, no visit to Charleston would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s famous cuisine.

From traditional Lowcountry boils to delicious seafood and world-class restaurants, Charleston is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re sampling local chocolates at the Christophe Artisan Chocolatier-Pâtissier or indulging in a traditional Southern brunch at the Hominy Grill, you can savor the South’s flavors.