Charleston is a picturesque, amazing, and historic city that is filled with unique shopping and dining experiences. It immerses guests in nature, offering them incredible and eye-catching sights and an abundance of outdoor activities at their doorstep. From colorful houses to charming architecture, excellent cuisines, and impressive plantations, this place offers a vibe worth experiencing. Here are things that make Charleston popular.

10 The Charleston Museum

Visitors can check out artifacts and antiques at Charleston Museum. The museum was established in 1773 and was utilized as a slave auction gallery. Here, visitors can see stone items, traditional costumes & shoes, Civil War-era weapons, ornaments, armors, and genuine dinosaur skeletons. History buffs can also learn more about the dark history of the area.

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9 Joe Riley Waterfront Park

Charleston is a city of unbeatable beauty and has a lot to offer visitors. Its beauty attracts foreigners and natives alike. Among the most frequented attractions in the city is the Joe Riley Waterfront Park. Situated a stone’s throw from the Charleston city market, the park offers visitors amazing views of the Cooper River Bridge and Charleston Harbor. At the center of the park, visitors will be impressed by the highly recognized attractions, a splash fountain and the popular pineapple fountain. These awe-inspiring attractions are spectacular to watch when lit up at night.

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8 Cathedral Of Saint John The Baptist

Charleston is home to many big and beautiful churches. While dozens of US city skylines comprise more skyscrapers, this is different from Charleston. Its impressive skyline is dominated by church spires. Charleston’s Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist is one of the most highly sought-after attractions. Visitors will definitely be inspired by its fascinating history. The cathedral was first established in 1854. However, it got destroyed by fire after six years. It took almost five decades for the completion of the present cathedral.

7 James Island

James Island is one of the most serene, romantic, and wildly scenic destinations in Charleston. Nestled between Downtown Charleston and Folly Beach, this luxurious hideaway is a walkable destination from the city. Its proximity to some views of the relaxing shore is exactly why so many visitors come to the island. After spending time on the island, visitors can proceed to Fort Sumter, as it is tucked away on an island just off the east coast of James Island.

6 Southern Food & Seafood

Visitors will not have truly experienced Charleston without tasting its authentic local food. The city is a mouth-watering haven for foodies. The best way visitors can proclaim their love for this amazing city is by visiting the numerous locally owned restaurants to savor scrumptious cuisines. Some of these restaurants include 82 Queen and Poogan’s Porch.

5 Old Exchange And Provost Dungeon

Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon were built way before the independence of the United States. This historic building is usually used as the main landmark in Charleston. It is also used to host significant events in South Carolina. It has also been utilized as a commercial exchange, custom house, post office, city hall, and military headquarters, among functions.

4 Dock Street Theater

Dock Street Theater boasts of being the first ever building identified for use as a playhouse in the initial thirteen colonies, which proclaimed independence. Although the original structure was set in 1809, it was converted into a theater in 1935. Created with visitors in mind, Dock Street Theater is an ideal place for visitors to spend their free time. The theater is a melting pot for history, and that’s why it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

3 The Historic Charleston City Market

Charleston City Market is among the few places that don’t need a lot of convincing people to consider. The market began as a meat and vegetable market, but as time passed, more and more business joints mushroomed. From popular sweetgrass baskets to local paintings and souvenirs, this place is indeed a shopping powerhouse. The market boasts more than 150 retailers that deal with clothes, books, jewelry, and cosmetics.

2 South Carolina Aquarium

South Carolina Aquarium is a worthy stop if looking for aquariums in the US. Visitors can learn about real animals that they have never envisioned they’d meet in real life. The aquarium features a myriad of marine life species. Visitors will catch a glimpse of otherworldly invertebrates, sharks, and a wide range of colorful fish. Visitors will also be pleasantly amazed by the numerous interactive exhibitions and a 4D cinema show with vibrating seats.

1 Plantations Of Charleston

Charleston has numerous plantations, such as Middleton Place, Drayton Hall, Charleston Tea Plantation, Magnolia Plantation & Garden, and Boone Hall Plantation. There is something magical about these Plantations. Visitors who love nature can visit these plantations and have an entirely different experience in each of them. For instance, The Magnolia Plantation & Garden is a true gem with diverse wildlife. It also has a zoo and a nature tram that transports visitors around.