Things To Do
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Magnolia Plantation in Charleston is a great spot to soak in some history and nature. You can wander through the beautiful gardens, check out the historic house, take a nature tram ride, and listen to historians. There’s also a swamp garden where you might spot some local wildlife! There is a cafe with food/drink options as this is a FULL day activity!
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Patriots Point in Charleston is a must-visit!! You can tour the massive USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, explore a submarine, and see tons of cool exhibits about naval history. There’s also a Vietnam Experience area that gives you a feel for what life was like for soldiers. You can park at Patriots Point or park in Downtown Charleston and take the water taxi from Waterfront Park! I recommend dining at Page's Okra Grill after this activity!
Charleston Water Taxi
Fun way to get to Patriots Point or a fun round trip ride! Click "view" for the schedule.
John King Grill & Dueling Piano Bar
Lively downtown bar with dueling pianos that get everyone singing along. The American-style burgers and snacks keep the energy up. We went here recently and it was one of our favorite nights out!!
Folly Beach
Love this beach! There are several options for street parking. After a day at folly beach I recommend eating at Taco Boy or Coconut Joe's- both with great sunset views of the water!
Isle of Palms Beach
This is another great beach to go to, there is a paid parking lot and tons of fun shops near the water. After a day at the beach, we recommend eating at Coconut Joe's Island Grill around sunset time!
Cypress Gardens
These are popular swamp gardens with walking trails and boat rides through blackwater! You may see alligators here! This is where portions of the famous movie The Notebook were filmed.
Angel Oak Tree
Massive, ancient oak tree that’s free to visit and definitely worth a quick stop. This is a little out of the way but so worth it! About 20 minutes away, Three Little Birds Cafe offers casual American brunch and lunch with affordable prices.
Waterfront Park
Popular downtown spot with fountains, swings, and scenic harbor views. Great for walking or relaxing by the water. Nearby, Fleet Landing (highlighted below) serves casual seafood with moderate prices that includes an option to dine outdoors ON the water!
Middleton Place
Historic plantation with stunning gardens and a small museum. It’s peaceful and scenic. The onsite restaurant offers Southern-inspired dishes at moderate prices, or try The Glass Onion back in Charleston for Southern dishes at a little cheaper of a price!
Old South Carriage Company
Horse-drawn carriage tours through historic downtown Charleston with informative guides. The horses are well cared for, and the tours cover a lot of ground. Afterward, I recommend a visit to Husk (highlighted below) nearby for upscale Southern cuisine!
Shem Creek
Shem creek is SO FUN! It is just across the bridge from Charleston in Mt Pleasant. Things to do include a waterfront boardwalk with kayaking, casual seafood spots, and great views. It’s lively, especially at sunset! There are so many good options over there you cannot go wrong! I recommend eating at Saltwater Cowboys, Water's Edge, or Mill Street Tavern!!
Charleston City Market
Charleston City Market is such a fun spot to walk through downtown—you’ll find handmade gifts, local goodies, and the famous sweetgrass baskets being woven right in front of you. It’s a great mix of history and shopping, and perfect for picking up something uniquely Charleston!
King Street
Charleston’s main shopping street with a mix of boutiques, chains, and cafes. It’s busy but full of energy. Stop for brunch at Millers All Day (modern American) or quick Southern bites at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit. If you want a sweet treat before walking Waterfront Park I recommend Freddo for the BEST gelato!!
DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON PARKING SUGGESTIONS
Downtown Charleston Parking! Park in these garages and most things downtown will be within walking distance: Concord Cumberland Parking Garage Majestic Square Parking Garage
Sweetwater One Twenty Three
The menu features modern American small bites in a moderate price range. It’s a great spot for drinks and a light meal without being too formal. I like going here for lunch and there are so many fun shops nearby in downtown summerville! Definitely a fun area to explore!
Oscar's of Summerville
Classic American fare with steaks, seafood, and hearty portions in Summerville. The restaurant offers a relaxed but polished setting with solid dishes at reasonable prices. It’s a dependable choice for lunch or dinner.
The Icehouse Restaurant
Casual spot with Southern-inspired comfort food, live music, and a large outdoor area. Their menu includes fried pickles, shrimp and grits, and other Southern favorites at reasonable prices. Perfect for laid-back dinners or weekend hangouts. The outside seating is so fun! They have a small park right there in the courtyard for kids as well.
Laura Summerville
AMAZING Italian restaurant in Summerville with homemade pasta and generous portions. It’s a friendly spot serving classic Italian dishes without high prices or long waits. Great for comfort food in a casual setting. We went here for our 1-year anniversary!
Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
This place is known for creative, build-your-own burgers loaded with toppings. The menu is straightforward American with plenty of burger options and local beers. It’s perfect for a quick, casual meal, one of my favorite american food spots!!
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
Waterfront restaurant serving solid seafood with nice harbor views. The vibe is casual but a step above typical chains. They have non-seafood options as well which are incredible.
Husk
Recommended if you want a FANCY southern meal- Upscale restaurant in a historic house focusing on local ingredients and creative Southern dishes. It’s a great spot for a refined, special-occasion meal.
MESU
Mesu on Upper King is a fun, modern spot that combines Mexican dishes and sushi in a way that actually works. The atmosphere is casual but stylish, and it’s a solid pick if you’re looking for something different in downtown Charleston.
Page's Okra Grill
One of our personal favorites.... Page’s Okra Grill in Mount Pleasant or Summerville is a locally-loved, family-run spot serving up generous portions of elevated Southern comfort food—think shrimp & grits, chicken & waffles, and homemade southern sides!!
Poogan's Porch
You can't come to Charleston and NOT go to brunch!! Set in a beautifully restored Victorian home Poogans Porch serves classic southern brunch dishes—think chicken & waffles with peach-huckleberry syrup—that feel both indulgent and authentically Charleston!!