Things to do in Charleston
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Charleston must see attractions
1. College of Charleston
2. Charleston City Market
3. Waterfront Park
4. South Carolina Aquarium
5. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
6. Fort Sumter
Discover the most popular places to visit in Charleston
Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal
Explore the waterfront in Charleston with a trip to Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.
College of Charleston
Named by Travel + Leisure as “America's Most Beautiful College Campus” in 2017, this South Carolina institution is engaging for visitors and beloved by students.
Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.
Waterfront Park
Stroll the city’s waterfront esplanades at sunset, when the afternoon sun begins to dip and the harbor is lit with soft colors.
South Carolina Aquarium
See an array of aquatic creatures, including an albino alligator, in underwater habitats ranging from salt marshes to coastal plains.
The Citadel
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of The Citadel, during your travels in Charleston. Visit the area's churches or amble around its beautiful beaches.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Turtles, alligators and birds abound in this former plantation, now swampland, gardens, lakes and forest.
Fort Sumter
Enjoy an informative boat ride on picturesque Charleston Harbor and explore the grounds of one of America’s most significant Civil War-era forts and battle sites.
Marion Square
More than just a pretty park, this popular green space between Meeting and King streets tells the tale of Charleston’s colonial-era history.
Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Charleston
Downtown Charleston
Travelers to Downtown Charleston praise its fantastic nightlife. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal and Charleston Music Hall.
Charleston Historic District
Appreciate the authentic antebellum ambiance as you move between historical homes, museums, markets and waterfront parks on foot or by horse-drawn carriage tours.
West Ashley
West Ashley is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Citadel Mall or Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site.
French Quarter
Travelers to French Quarter praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal and Waterfront Park.
Cannonborough Elliotborough
While visiting Cannonborough Elliotborough, you might make a stop by sights like Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum.
Harleston Village
If you're spending some time in Harleston Village, Marion Square and The Riviera Theater are top sights worth seeing.
- Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal
- Charleston City Market
- Waterfront Park
- Medical University of South Carolina
- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
- Marion Square
- Charleston Museum
- Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
- Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
- Gibbes Museum of Art
- Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist
- Washington Square