Top Things To Do in Charleston, South Carolina
Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in rich coastal culture, hop on a tour, splash in the waves or find your bliss in a spa oasis, you'll find what you are looking for in Charleston.
This historic city was founded in 1670, and boasts picturesque architecture, romantic history and scenic surroundings. Charleston is sure to inspire you. While you soak up the charm of this historic Southern City, you can also enjoy the contemporary vibes of South Carolina's coastal culture. With its second-to-none restaurant scene, beautiful oceanfront resorts and enduring cultural roots, the Holy City is a haven for history buffs and beachgoers.
1. Carriage Tours
There are many carriage tours to choose from but Palmetto Carriage Works was here before any other carriage company in the city. A tour with them offers a blend of knowledge, wit, and humour through Charleston’s gorgeous historic district. During the fully narrated tour your guide will recount the vibrant tale of the city’s exquisite history with over three hundred years of information. Cruising through the quaint and charming historic district, guests will see some of the most distinguished architecture in the country including elegant homes and graceful churches, as well as beautiful gardens, the famous City Market, and numerous other sites that make Charleston one of America's top tourist destinations.
2. Harbour Cruises and Special Riverboat Events
Charleston’s best & only harbour tour narrated in person by a licensed tour guide. Learn the real history of over 75 landmarks and historic points of interest and sight see dolphins and other marine animals aboard this relaxing 90 minute tour. For a more lively option, sail on board the Carolina Queen Riverboat which is Charleston's only riverboat! The Carolina Queen can accommodate anywhere from 50-250 guests and offers great local events like the signature Blues & BBQ Cruise, Jam on the Water, Holiday Events and more!
3. Food Tours
Bulldog’s Culinary Tours of Charleston takes its guests on an exclusive culinary adventure through the city. With four different 2.5-hour tour options to choose from, you’ll get to walk, talk, and taste your way through history, learning how Lowcountry cuisine has evolved over the past 300 years. Go behind the scenes into some of the cities most talked about kitchens. Meet the chefs and learn the restaurant’s rich history. These informative tours are ideal for both casual fans of the culinary arts or the hard-core foodie in your life.
4. Shopping
Charleston has endless shopping opportunities. Whether you're looking for top brands or one-of-a-kind boutiques, you can find them here. One of the best places to shop in Charleston is Freshfields Village, a true town-centre offering a unique mix of shopping, dining, service, and lodging establishments all shaped by Lowcountry tradition and high style. Another great area for shopping is The Port Mercantile. This uniquely curated shopping destination is a modern day mercantile with an upmarket touch, offering thoughtful essentials you didn’t know you needed until you saw them. Croghan’s Jewel Box
Is a menagerie of designer & estate jewellery, with beautiful antique silver & unusual gifts. Locals have shopped here for over 100 years.
5. Kayaking
Kayaking with COA is one of the best ways to relax and explore the Lowcountry. As you paddle through the calm saltwater creeks nestled behind Folly Beach, you will discover the natural wonders and wildlife that call this area home. You will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with wading birds, oyster beds, barrier islands, wild dolphins and more. Whether you are interested in a naturalist guided excursion or renting a kayak, they offer everything you need to have a fulfilling experience you will never forget. Guided tours departures and rental windows are available throughout the day, including sunset tour options offered daily.
6. Golf
Award-winning Charleston golf, featuring the renovated Links Course. Rolling fairways, scenic holes on the Atlantic and Intracoastal Waterway and challenging greens await.
Charleston courses are of exceptional variety and challenge an array of breathtaking coastal terrains, from true links style to lowcountry forests, there's quite simply a perfect Charleston course for every player and passion.
7. Dining
Many come to Charleston with one thing on their mind: food. The best grits you'll ever have, prepared in ways you never imagined. Festive dockside oyster roasts. High-end Charleston restaurants. Outdoor cafés. Fresh from the dock seafood. Every meal is an event in itself. Prepared with perfection. Served with a warm smile. Enjoy.
Some of the top restaurants to visit are The Dewberry Charleston which features the highest rooftop in Charleston and is home to the whimsical rooftop lounge, Citrus Club. Oyster House where you can enjoy lunch or dinner in one of Charleston’s original seafood warehouse buildings on historic Market Street, featuring Chef Tony Palmisano’s local seafood specialties. Pier 101 Restaurant & Bar is located beachfront on the famed “Edge of America,” Folly Beach, offering live music, fresh seafood and panoramic ocean views.
For more information on holidays to Charleston, South Carolina click hereor call us on 020 8742 8299.
