Things To Do
Old South Carriage Company — A Journey Through Time
Glide through Charleston’s historic streets by horse‑drawn carriage — a living tradition that brings the city’s 300‑plus years of history to life. Whether you choose the classic tour or a narrated harbor/ghost option, knowledgeable guides share tales of the city’s colonial beginnings, antebellum architecture, and storied neighborhoods, all while you enjoy the relaxed pace of 19th‑century travel. It’s an elegant and unforgettable way for history lovers to feel Charleston’s past.
USS Yorktown - Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
At the heart of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum stands the USS Yorktown (CV‑10) — one of the most celebrated aircraft carriers ever built. Commissioned in 1943 during World War II, this Essex‑class “Fighting Lady” earned 11 battle stars for its service in the Pacific Theater and later supported operations during the Vietnam War. After decommissioning in 1970, she was preserved as a museum ship at Patriots Point, where visitors can explore flight decks, crew quarters, and interactive exhibits that reveal the realities of life at sea and the dramatic impact of naval history. The Yorktown even played a role in recovering Apollo 8 astronauts in 1968, connecting this floating fortress to space history as well.
Ghost Tour Charleston, LLC — History & Culture Tours
Charleston’s rich history isn’t just about buildings — it’s about stories. Tour Charleston blends deep historical context with compelling narratives, whether you’re exploring colonial life, architectural highlights, or the darker side of Charleston’s past with ghost tours that respect both historical accuracy and eerie intrigue
Stroll Through Rainbow Row — Charleston’s Iconic Colorful Homes
Rainbow Row is Charleston’s famous stretch of 13 historic, pastel‑colored 18th‑century houses along East Bay Street, celebrated for its vibrant charm and architectural beauty. Originally built in the mid‑1700s, these restored homes reflect the city’s Georgian and Federal-style heritage, and the cheerful hues were part of a 20th-century preservation effort to revive Charleston’s historic character. A stroll along Rainbow Row offers guests a quintessential Charleston experience, blending history, culture, and photo-worthy streetscapes that capture the timeless elegance of this coastal city.
Historic Charleston City Market
One of America’s oldest public markets, this four‑block historic marketplace showcases Charleston’s vibrant local culture, craftsmanship, and Gullah heritage. Visitors can browse handmade sweetgrass baskets, local art, and regional foods — a living celebration of Charleston’s artisans and traditions.
White Point Garden & The Battery — Charleston’s Historic Waterfront Park
At the very southern tip of the Charleston peninsula, White Point Garden sits within The Battery, an iconic promenade overlooking where the Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean. This shaded, historic park is dotted with Civil War‑era cannons, monuments, and statues, offering sweeping views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter while inviting guests to stroll, relax, or enjoy a scenic picnic. The Battery itself — lined with majestic antebellum homes and ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss.
Upscale King Street Shopping
Just beyond the hotel, King Street stretches through Charleston’s historic district as one of the nation’s premier shopping streets. From luxury brands and trendy fashion boutiques to antique shops, galleries, and specialty stores, it’s a lively corridor where every turn reveals something unique. Guests can enjoy a leisurely stroll, pick up souvenirs, or discover local crafts while soaking in the charm, architecture, and energy that make Charleston a world‑renowned shopping destination.
The Shops Inside The Charleston Place
Located within the luxury Charleston Place Hotel, The Shops at The Charleston Place offer an exclusive shopping experience just steps from your accommodations. Guests can explore high-end boutiques such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, St. John, and Kate Spade, alongside curated Charleston‑born brands and artisan offerings. From designer fashion and jewelry to coastal‑inspired lifestyle items, the hotel’s shops provide a convenient and refined way to enjoy Charleston’s style without leaving the property.
Fort Sumter National Monument — A Pivotal Moment in American History
Step onto the very site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired in 1861. This historic sea fort in Charleston Harbor offers powerful insights into the origins of America’s defining conflict, framed by fascinating exhibits and sweeping harbor views. The ferry journey across the water is part of the experience, giving history enthusiasts a deep connection to both the story and the stunning coastal setting.
Charleston Harbor Tours & Sandlapper Water Tours — Harbor Cruises & Water Experiences
Seeing Charleston from the water brings a completely different perspective — from sweeping views of the skyline to narrated history about the harbor’s role in trade, defense, and daily life. Sunset cruises, narrated boat tours, and dolphin‑spotting excursions are incredibly popular, offering experiences that are as scenic as they are informative.
Halls Chophouse — Upscale Steakhouse with Refined Ambiance
An acclaimed steakhouse destination with impeccable service, prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an elegant atmosphere — consistently one of Charleston’s top‑rated restaurants.
Magnolias — Iconic Fine Dining & Modern Southern Flavors
Magnolias is an acclaimed fine-dining restaurant in historic downtown Charleston, South Carolina, known for defining modern Lowcountry cuisine since its 1990 debut. Blending traditional Southern ingredients with contemporary techniques, it helped ignite Charleston’s culinary renaissance and remains a flagship of upscale Southern dining.
Peninsula Grill — Elegant Fine Dining & Lowcountry Classics
Peninsula Grill is an award-winning fine-dining restaurant located in Charleston’s Historic District. Celebrated for refined Lowcountry-inspired cuisine, elegant service, and its famed 12-layer Ultimate Coconut Cake™, it has earned national acclaim and multiple AAA Four-Diamond honors since opening in 1997.
167 Raw Oyster Bar - New England Style Seafood
167 Raw Oyster Bar in Charleston, South Carolina, is a New England–style seafood restaurant celebrated for its raw bar and casual yet refined coastal atmosphere. Located in the historic downtown on King Street, it draws both locals and visitors for its fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and East Coast seafood classics.quintessential Charleston meal with Southern warmth and style.
Frannie & The Fox — Stylish Italian-Southern Fusion
Frannie & The Fox, inside Charleston’s Emeline Hotel, offers wood‑fired dishes blending Italian techniques with Southern ingredients. Guests enjoy seasonal seafood, artisanal pizzas, and small plates in a warm, stylish space with a charming outdoor courtyard. Its fresh flavors and inviting atmosphere make it a must-visit in Charleston.
Poogan's Porch — Historic Southern Comfort & Lowcountry Cuisine
Poogan’s Porch is a celebrated Southern restaurant located in Charleston, South Carolina. Established in 1976 within a restored Victorian home, it has become one of the city’s oldest independent culinary landmarks, known for its Lowcountry cuisine, historic charm, and namesake canine mascot, Poogan.
The Palmetto Cafe — Garden-Inspired Brunch & Light Fare
Step inside the garden-inspired Palmetto Cafe, where the finest local and regional ingredients celebrate the bounty of the area. From Lowcountry classics to French-inspired dishes, linger over a sophisticated breakfast or brunch in this light-filled cafe.