South Carolina offers numerous unique tourist sites, whether its visitors are history fans, like relaxing at the beach or are seeking for exciting activities to do with their families. They can choose from top-notch theatrical performances, water parks, and golf, or unwind at the beach and vacation resorts.
Charleston, the second largest and most historic city in South Carolina, is among the top tourist destinations in the whole American South. It is also the state's most attractive metropolis. Tourists can take a romantic carriage ride through the atmospheric alleys of Charleston or visit some surrounding of the most stunning plantation mansions in the South. They may also take in the stunning panoramas and peaceful pathways of parks or visit the fort on Charleston Harbor.
Although Charleston isn't the state's capital, its residents and millions of visitors agree that it is the best place to learn about the history, culture, art, and entertainment of South Carolina. While humbled history buffs are frequently spotted in splendid plantations and stunning museums, adrenaline addicts, foodies, and partygoers find tranquility in indulging in a variety of exhilarating water sports, delectable meals, and thrilling nightlife. Here is a list of things to do and places to eat in Charleston.
Spend An Unforgettable Day In Charleston Collecting Memories
Visit The Memorial Waterfront Park
Memorial Waterfront Park, often referred to as Mount Pleasant's crown jewel, is not a typical park. At the foot of the Ravenel Bridge, beneath the town's stately entrance, is a park with a soft-serve ice cream stand, a playground with a nautical motif, and grass ideal for family picnics.
Tourists can enjoy stunning views of Charleston Harbor and the 1,250-foot-long (381 m) Mount Pleasant Pier from the River Watch Café, where they may sit and swing or try their hand at fishing.
They can also pass by the Visitor Center, War Memorial, and Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Pavilion while they are there to get a sense of the local culture.
- Opening schedule: It opens from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Stop By Patriots Point Naval And Maritime Museum
Tourists can start their day at Patriots Point where they will visit the only reproduction Vietnam Naval Support Base Camp in the United States, tour National Historic Landmark ships like the USS Yorktown, and hear the narratives of the nation's finest women and men at the Medal of Honor Museum.
Tourists will definitely find inspiration at the Naval and Maritime Museum.
- Opening schedule: It opens daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entrance fee: $27 per adult; $21 per veteran and first responder; $19 per senior and active duty or retired military; $16 per child above 6 years old and free for younger than 6.
Explore Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Sumter is a must-see place for any tourist to Charleston because of its historic importance as the site of the conflict that started the American Civil War.
The region is lined with antique cannons, actual shrapnel, and medieval brick fortifications. In addition to its influence on the development of contemporary America, the monument itself is striking due to its setting immediately over the lake.
- Opening schedule: It opens daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entrance fee: $10 per person above 15 years old for 7 days
Golf At Patriots Point Links
Patriots Point has long been a favorite site to play for local Charleston golfers and resort visitors. It is located on the edge of Charleston Harbor and offers breathtaking landscapes of Fort Sumter and ships coming from around the world.
Without playing at this iconic harborside course, no golf journey to South Carolina's Lowcountry is complete.
- Opening schedule: It opens daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Cost: $89.52 for 2 to 4 players
Do Not Miss The Wonderful Magnolia Plantation And Gardens
The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is the oldest public garden in America and has been accessible to visitors for more than 150 years.
The marvelous expansive 464-acre (1.87 square kilometers) site has a cinema where visitors may unwind and enjoy a 30-minute documentary on the interesting history of this almost 400-year-old Plantation, as well as a maze and a small zoo that children appreciate.
Enjoy Exceptional Meals At Charleston
Pamper Yourself With A Luxury Dinner Cruise
A hassle-free dinner cruise on the harbor with a menu of delicious Southern food, delightful live music, and a unique full-service bar is a need for every tourist to Charleston.
After savoring the freshly prepared 3-course dinner, tourists can proceed to the outside observation deck for unrivaled views of the city's most iconic buildings. A cruise is one of the top things to do in Charleston if luxury is their thing!
- Cost: $76.60 per person
- Duration: 2.5 hours
Eat At Halls Chophouse, Charleston's Best Restaurant
Food lovers, get pumped! Halls Chophouse still has the coveted distinction of being the top restaurant in the city because of its quality steaks, mouth-watering Lowcountry dishes, and fresh seafood delicacies.
It is no surprise that this renowned Charleston restaurant has managed to keep a 5-star rating when its menu features a variety of meals that are as delicious as they are beautiful.
- Location: 434 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
- Opening schedule: Monday through Thursday from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM; Friday from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM; Saturday from 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM; and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Have A Beer At Palmetto Brewery
The patrons of Palmetto Brewery are proud to identify their establishment as South Carolina's first craft brewery, and the throngs of thirsty owners are just as happy to partake in the beverage there!
There is a flavor for every palette among the seasonal and year-round brews. A definite audience favorite, the Idle Speed, should be tried. Unsure of what to drink? Visitors can choose a taster flight instead!
- Opening schedule: Monday through Thursday from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM; Friday and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM; and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM.