Things to do in Charleston
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Most popular experiences in Charleston
History & culture
See all 153 activitiesCharleston: Historical City centre Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
Adventure & outdoor
See all 10 activitiesCharleston: Film & OBX Locations E-Bike Tour
Private & custom tours
See all 36 activitiesHistoric City centre Self-Guided Tour in Charleston
Cruises & boat tours
See all 19 activitiesCharleston: Daytime or Sunset Historic Harbour Cruise
Weddings & honeymoons
See all 6 activitiesCharleston: Historical City centre Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
What to do in Charleston
Popular places to visit
Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal
Explore the waterfront in Charleston with a trip to Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.
Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.
College of Charleston
Named by Travel + Leisure as “America's Most Beautiful College Campus” in 2017, this South Carolina institution is engaging for visitors and beloved by students.
South Carolina Aquarium
See an array of aquatic creatures, including an albino alligator, in underwater habitats ranging from salt marshes to coastal plains.
Waterfront Park
Stroll the city’s waterfront esplanades at sunset, when the afternoon sun begins to dip and the harbor is lit with soft colors.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Turtles, alligators and birds abound in this former plantation, now swampland, gardens, lakes and forest.
Charleston Music Hall
Enjoy a performance at Charleston Music Hall, a popular theatre in Charleston. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the stunning cathedral in the area.
Fort Sumter
Enjoy an informative boat ride on picturesque Charleston Harbor and explore the grounds of one of America’s most significant Civil War-era forts and battle sites.
The Citadel
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of The Citadel during your travels in Charleston. Visit the area's churches or amble around its beautiful beaches.
Areas of Charleston
Charleston Historic District
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Charleston City Market to Shops at Charleston Place – discover Charleston Historic District, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Downtown Charleston
Travellers to Downtown Charleston praise its fantastic nightlife. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Charleston Music Hall and Music Farm.
Cannonborough Elliotborough
If you're spending some time in Cannonborough Elliotborough, Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum are top sights worth seeing.
West Ashley
West Ashley is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Citadel Mall or Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site.
French Quarter
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Waterfront Park to Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal – discover French Quarter, a destination also famous for its shopping.
King Street
If you're spending some time in King Street, Marion Square and Charleston Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.