Charleston, South Carolina is a city known for its beauty and all of the history that can be experienced just by walking down its uneven sidewalks. A weekend trip to this lovely place is always a good idea; here are some fun things to do and see to get a real taste of the friendliest city in America!
1. The City Market
The City Market is an open-air market located right in the heart of downtown Charleston. Here you can find all kinds of treasures from hand-woven baskets and other local art to souvenirs to remember your trip.
2. Boone Hall
There are many different historical plantations in and around Charleston, but if I had to recommend one, it would be Boone Hall. This beautiful property is rich with history and a pleasure to tour. If you do visit, be sure to schedule your house tour as soon as you get there. Fun Fact: this is also where part of "The Notebook" was filmed!
3. King Street
If you are in the mood to shop, King Street is where you need to be. Here you can find tons of galleries, boutiques, and other unique shops that you cannot find anywhere else!
4. Waterfront Park
This public park is perfect for taking a rest and enjoying the water. Walk out on the pier to get a better view of the water and of Fort Sumter, plus, you may even get a chance to see dolphins jumping out of the water nearby!
5. Fort Sumter
Take a boat out to this historic landmark on the Charleston Harbor and explore where two famous battles of the Civil War took place. This is the perfect activity for an American history or Civil War buff.
6. Carriage Ride
As soon as you drive into the city you may start to see horse-drawn carriages riding down the streets. If it is your first time visiting or your tenth, a carriage ride is the perfect way to experience the city in a way you couldn't on foot. The tour guides are fantastic and will help you learn so much in just one short hour!
7. Hyman's Seafood Restaurant
Hyman's is located on Meeting Street and is open every day of the week. Their food is to die for, especially the shrimp and grits. Stop here to get lunch or dinner sometime during your time in the city!
8. Visit a Church
It is no coincidence why Charleston has been nicknamed "The Holy City." There are hundreds of beautiful churches that are worth looking into. As long as the church doors are open and there is not a service in session, you are more than welcome to wander inside and take a look around; this goes for the graveyards as well, which can be very interesting.
9. Island Time
Since Charleston is on a peninsula, there are a number of islands that surround it. Some of these include: James Island, Wadmalaw Island, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan’s Island. To get the best of the beach and the city, stay in a hotel or condo on the beach and enjoy the sun during the day and travel into the city in the afternoon/evening for dinner and evening fun!
