Sometimes you may want to travel to the far corners of the globe and have a crazy, perspective-shifting experience. Other times, you want to stay somewhat local and see a part of America that blends history, culture, and beauty in one lovely bundle.

Every spring, we take a small group of women to a true insider tour of Charleston. Find out more about our trip March 27-30, 2025 by clicking here.

If that’s the case, look no further than Charleston, South Carolina. This gracious but vibrant city is loaded with Southern charm to offer an unforgettable travel destination where you can relax (those swaying palmettos!) and drink in its pleasures. “There is so much to love about Charleston,” says NextTribe Founder and CEO Jeannie Ralston. “We love leading tours here because our travelers adore the historic streets, the windswept coastal scenery, and that yummy, Low Country cooking! You haven’t really lived till you’ve had a classic shrimp boil, especially the way we do it: At sunset on a pristine beach on an inhabited barrier island.”

Here, dive into the best things to do in Charleston, SC, so you’ll have a great time whether visiting for a long weekend or a full week.

Charleston Weather and the Best Time to Visit

Charleston’s climate is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination, though certain seasons may be more appealing depending on your preferences.

• Spring (March-May): This is one of the best times to visit Charleston. Temperatures range from the mid-60s to low 80s (°F), and the city is in full bloom with azaleas and other spring flowers. It’s a prime season for walking tours and outdoor activities. However, this is also one of the busiest times, so be prepared for larger crowds. (At NextTribe, we tour Charleston in late March, getting the best of spring without things being too busy.)
• Summer (June-August): Full disclosure: Summer in Charleston can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, but the city’s proximity to the coast offers plenty of opportunities to cool off at nearby beaches, like Folly Beach or Isle of Palms. This is a popular time for beachgoers, though the heat may make major in-town walking tours less appealing. (However, you might just consider this “ice-cream weather,” and enjoy finding various delicious ways to stay cool.)
• Fall (September-November): Fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it another excellent time to visit. Daytime highs range from the upper 70s to the low 60s by November, making outdoor activities more comfortable, such as walking the grounds of historic homes. Bring a sweater or some lightweight down in case you get chilly strolling around downtown before dinner. This is also the start of oyster season, so seafood lovers will be in for a treat.
• Winter (December-February): Winters in Charleston are relatively mild, with daytime highs in the mid-50s to low 60s. It’s the quietest time of year for tourism, but the city sparkles with its holiday lights and decorations, not to mention plenty of opportunities to cozy up with coffee or a cocktail. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower hotel prices, winter could be the perfect time for your trip.

Getting to Charleston

Good news! Charleston International Airport (CHS), the primary airport serving the area, offers a variety of direct flights from major cities across the United States. Some of the cities with direct flights to Charleston include:

• New York City (JFK and LaGuardia)
• Washington, D.C. (Reagan National and Dulles)
• Atlanta
• Chicago (O’Hare)
• Dallas/Fort Worth
• Boston
• Philadelphia

Direct flights make Charleston highly accessible for weekend getaways or longer vacations, especially from the East Coast and Southern cities. For those traveling from cities without direct flights, connections through larger hubs like Atlanta or Charlotte are frequent and convenient.

The Birth of a City

A quick history lesson: The port city of Charleston was founded in 1670 and saw its share of conflict as America gained its independence. While Boston gets the most credit in this realm, during the Charleston Tea Party of 1773, residents brought tea ashore so it couldn’t be sold, which was an act of civil disobedience. However, Charleston also was home to a major defeat by the British (known as the Siege of Charleston) in 1780; the British forces only evacuated two years later.

Charleston was then a thriving hub up to the Civil War, in part due to its status as a slavery center. The city is considered the “cradle of the Confederacy” because it withdrew from the Union following the election of President Lincoln in 1860. It became a battleground in the Civil War and sustained heavy damage. Nevertheless, it is defined by its cobblestone streets and elegant architecture, particularly in the French Quarter and Battery districts. And today, much of this history can be explored while you are visiting Charleston if you want to gain a deeper understanding of and perspective on the city’s and our country’s roots. This can add a powerful dimension to your time spent in Charleston.

Another aspect of the city to explore is its Gullah culture which reflects the African roots of many locals. As mentioned, Charleston played a large role in the slave trade. Today, you can learn more about how traditions continue today, in music, food, storytelling, arts, and crafts.

Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC

Now that you’ve got the logistics sorted out, let’s dive into the best things to do in Charleston, S.C. From historic sites to shopping, this city has a little something for everyone.

Historic Locations

Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the U.S., with a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1670. Exploring its historic locations is a must for any visitor.

• The Battery & White Point Garden: A beautiful promenade along Charleston Harbor, the Battery is lined with antique homes and cannons that remind visitors of the city’s role in the Civil War. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll with stunning views of the harbor and nearby Fort Sumter.
• Fort Sumter National Monument: Speaking of Fort Sumter, this is the location where the first shots of the Civil War were fired in 1861. You can take a ferry from downtown Charleston to the fort for a tour that dives deep into American history.
• Charleston’s Historic Homes: Charleston is known for its well-preserved historic homes, many of which are open for tours. The Nathaniel Russell House and Aiken-Rhett House are two standout examples of antebellum architecture that give visitors a glimpse into the lives of Charleston’s wealthy families in the 19th century.
• Rainbow Row: Get your camera in hand, because what’s known as Rainbow Row is surely one of Charleston’s most photographed sites. Located on East Bay Street, across from what was once waterfront (you can see remnants of the old sea wall), this a gorgeous line-up of 13 row houses dating to the early 1700s, each painted a delightful pastel color. Which will be your favorite: the lilac, the rose pink, the butter yellow, or another?
• St. Michael’s Church: One of the oldest churches in the country, St. Michael’s Church dates back to 1761 and is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture in this historic city. Its steeple is one of the most recognizable features of the Charleston skyline. Definitely worth a stop.
• Middleton Place: Known as America’s oldest landscaped gardens, this property, a National Historic Landmark, was originally home to a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Located along the Ashley River, the former plantation is now a not-for-profit educational trust that shares the contributions of the Middleton family as well as the enslaved Africans and African Americans who lived and worked here.

Rainbow Row is a stunning line-up of historic rowhouses, each painted a gorgeous color, from rosebud pink to seafoam green. Get your camera ready!

One great way to explore the downtown area of Charleston is by a horse-drawn carriage. The clip-clop of hooves can help transport you back in time, to what Charleston was like in centuries past. Another option for history buffs who like things that are a little bit eerie: ghost tours. The city offers these for those who don’t mind some goosebumps while traveling.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Charleston’s museums and cultural centers are essential stops for anyone wanting to delve deeper into the city’s rich past and diverse cultural influences.

• The Charleston Museum: Known as “America’s First Museum,” this institution offers exhibits that cover everything from Native American history to the Civil War. It’s a great starting point for those wanting to understand the broader context of Charleston’s history.
• Gibbes Museum of Art: If you’re an art lover, the Gibbes Museum is a must-see. It houses an extensive collection of American art with a special focus on works related to Charleston and the South.
• Old Slave Mart Museum: This sobering museum is located on the site of a former slave auction gallery and provides a critical look at Charleston’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. It can be a challenging but important stop for understanding this aspect of the city’s and our country’s past.
• Dock Street Theatre: For those interested in the performing arts, Dock Street Theatre is a cultural gem. It’s the oldest theatre building in the U.S., opening in 1736, and still hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.

The Gibbes Museum can immerse you in its stunning collection of American art, with an emphasis on the hyper-local.

Dining Out: Best Local Dishes and Where to Try Them

Charleston’s food scene is world-renowned, with a culinary tradition that reflects its history and coastal location. From fine dining to casual seafood spots, there’s no shortage of delicious places to eat.

First, a bit about Low Country cuisine, which you may also see written as Lowcountry: Charleston is the birthplace of Low Country cuisine, which draws on African, French, and Caribbean influences that melded in the city over the centuries. Must-try dishes include shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, Frogmore stew (Low Country boil, the classic includes shrimp, kielbasa or other sausages, corn on the cob and potatoes), and Hoppin’ John (a dish made with rice and peas and often pork).

Among the best restaurants:

• Husk: One of the most famous restaurants in Charleston, Husk focuses on local ingredients and Southern flavors with a modern twist. It’s a great place to experience the height of Low Country cooking.
• FIG: This James Beard Award-winning restaurant is another standout, offering a farm-to-table menu that changes with the seasons. Expect expertly crafted dishes using the freshest local ingredients.
• The Grocery: Another awesome farm-to-table option, with irresistible salads, roasted veggies, fried oysters, steaks, and more.
• Leon’s Oyster Shop: For a more casual dining experience, head to Leon’s for fried chicken, oysters, and Southern sides. It’s a laid-back spot that’s beloved by locals and visitors alike.
• Hall’s Chophouse: Great steaks, for sure, but NextTribe loves the Sunday Gospel Brunch. Live music + great food = a memorable time in a great place.

Also, a rooftop cocktail bar can be the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring, and downtown Charleston has plenty of options. A few to note: The Vendue in the French Quarter, Fiat Lux, the Satellite Bar, and the Cocktail Club.

Shopping in Charleston, South Carolina

Another of the best things to do in Charleston, S.C.: Explore the shopping scene, a delightful mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops, and antique stores.

• King Street: This is Charleston’s main shopping thoroughfare, offering a mix of luxury brands, local boutiques, and charming cafes. The street is divided into different districts: Upper King is known for its fashion and home decor stores, while Lower King is famous for its antique shops.
• Charleston City Market: A historic market that’s been in operation since the early 1800s, the Charleston City Market is a great place to find local crafts, including the iconic sweetgrass baskets made by Gullah artisans. It’s a vibrant spot for souvenirs and handmade goods. You’ll find drawings, paintings, ceramics, bags, fashion made with African fabrics, soaps, jewelry, candles, and so much more. Says NextTribe’s Jeannie Ralston, “Members of our groups have found such treasures here, they’ve had to buy another suitcase to take it all home!”
• Charleston Night Market: This is a special edition of the Charleston City Market, open on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6:30 to 10:30. A weekend highlight for locals and visitors alike!
• Antique Shops: For antique lovers, Charleston is a treasure trove. Shops like George C. Birlant & Co. offer everything from 18th-century furniture to rare jewelry, making it the perfect destination for those looking for unique finds.

Outdoor Activities and Nature

Charleston’s coastal location makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you want to relax on a beach, explore a plantation, or get out on the water, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

• Folly Beach: Located just a short drive from downtown Charleston, Folly Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, surfing, and fishing. The laid-back beach town atmosphere is perfect for a day of relaxation.
• Sullivan’s Island: This is another of the best things to do in Charleston. Reachable by a rideshare, this barrier island in the Charleston harbor is a beloved place for beach time and a taste of the past.
• Magnolia Plantation & Gardens: One of the oldest plantations in the South, Magnolia Plantation is famous for its beautiful gardens, which are especially stunning in the spring, with bright colors exploding against the backdrop of gorgeous greenery. You can also tour the historic house and learn about the plantation’s complex history. There’s also a waterfront park element to the gardens; you can walk along a serene preserved section of the Ashley River.
• Kayaking & paddleboarding: For a more active adventure, consider kayaking or paddleboarding through Charleston’s waterways. You’ll have the chance to spot local wildlife like dolphins and pelicans while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.
• Angel Oak Tree: Located on Johns Island, just outside of Charleston, the Angel Oak is a massive live oak tree that’s believed to be over 400 years old. It’s a breathtaking natural wonder that’s worth the short drive from the city.

Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC: You’ll Love It All!

Charleston is a city that truly has it all: rich history, vibrant culture, world-class cuisine, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, this charming Southern city offers something for every type of traveler. Plan your trip according to the best time of year for your preferred activities, and make sure to explore all that Charleston has to offer—from its historic sites and museums