Charleston, South Carolina, is a city where history and modernity effortlessly coexist, offering unique experiences around every corner. It’s a Lowcountry escape with sandy beaches, century-old stories, cobblestone streets, savory seafood, southern charm, and sophistication.
The Holy City is one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities and ranks as one of the best places to live by U.S. News & World Report this year. But even more impressive, Travel + Leisure readers voted it the No.1 city in the world for the 12th consecutive year in a row.
The city earned its top spot for its sights, landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value. One voter states, “Charleston can compete with any European capital for its arts, entertainment, active lifestyle, and food.”
Charleston offers a wide range of accommodations, from chain hotels and historic inns to resorts, vacation rentals, and charming cottages. For families or friend groups, The Cottages on Charleston Harbor is an excellent choice, featuring multiple bedrooms, a full kitchen, a living area, an oversized screened-in porch, a community pool, free bike rentals, and stunning harbor views.
A vacation destination with beaches, rich history, unique experiences, modern amenities, and fine dining, Charleston, SC, offers the perfect blend of coastal activities and cultural refinement, ensuring an unforgettable escape for anyone who visits.
Charleston’s Beaches, Shopping, and Experiences
Charleston has five barrier island communities with access to beautiful beaches. Popular beach day spots include Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms, while Kiawah and Seabrook Islands offer kayaking opportunities and seaside golf courses.
Those searching for unique treasures in Charleston should explore King Street’s various boutiques, antique stores, and specialty shops. King Street also has several spas and wellness centers for those looking to indulge in some vacation self-care. The Historic Charleston City Market, including its Night Market, also offers one-of-a-kind, locally-made artisanal goods.
An exciting way to get to know Charleston is through a guided tour. For a truly memorable experience, hop on a horse-drawn carriage with Palmetto Carriage Works. Trot through the cobblestone streets and glimpse Charleston’s lively present while uncovering fascinating stories of its past.
Other fun vacation attractions include the South Carolina Aquarium, engaging museums, numerous county and state parks, exciting waterparks, harbor cruises, and fishing charters. Guided attractions include historic ghost tours or tea garden tours. Though many attractions charge admission, there are plenty of free things to do in the city.
Don’t miss a visit to Charleston’s Waterfront Park for a selfie in front of the iconic Pineapple Fountain, a long-standing symbol of the city’s hospitality.
Beautiful Architecture, Storied Streets, and Historic Stops
Charleston, founded in 1670 as Charles Town in honor of King Charles II, is one of the United States’ oldest cities.
One notable aspect of Charleston is its preservation of historic homes and buildings. Fans of the city often describe it as a “living museum,” with its well-preserved structures spanning architectural styles from Colonial to Victorian.
While Charleston quickly became a major port city and economic hub, it thrived on the export of rice, indigo, and cotton, which were heavily reliant on slave labor. Tour the Old Slave Mart Museum or nearby plantations — Magnolia Plantation, Middleton Place, and Boone Hall — which serve as critical educational sites providing powerful history lessons.
Those interested in African American culture and history can visit Charleston’s International African American Museum.
Notable historic homes you can visit today include the Georgian Heyward-Washington House (1772), built by Thomas Heyward Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The Nathaniel Russell House (1808) is famous for its spiral staircase. And don’t forget The Aiken-Rhett House (1820), preserved in a state that authentically represents 19th-century life. Be sure to visit Charleston’s iconic Rainbow Row for a colorful example of the city’s old row-style homes.
In 1861, the first shots of the Civil War rang through Fort Sumter, a national historic site that guests can visit today. Fort Sumter Tours offers guided experiences, including a memorable and scenic ferry ride across Charleston Harbor.
Chef-Inspired Plates, Lowcountry Cuisine, and Seafood
When visiting Charleston, South Carolina, come with an appetite. From historic venues and waterfront dining to Lowcountry seafood boils and barbecue, Charleston’s culinary scene comprises a foodie haven.
Vacationers looking for unique dining experiences can relish restaurants like Church and Union Charleston. This elaborately decorated eatery, nestled in a beautifully repurposed church, features the text of Sun Tzu’s The Art of War handpainted on its ceiling. Top Chef competitor Jamie Lynch co-owns Church and Union, offering chef-inspired brunch, lunch, and dinner dishes.
In the heart of downtown, discover restaurants like Stars Rooftop and Grill Room, which serves wood-fired plates in a 1930s-style grill room. Head upstairs for a drink at its rooftop bar and soak in gorgeous sunset views.
Those looking for Carolina-style barbecue shouldn’t miss the opportunity to dine at Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ. Rodney Scott of Food Network’s BBQ Brawl strives to keep the tradition of live coal direct heat whole-hog barbecue alive. Be on the lookout for Rodney Scott himself, as he’s known to make an appearance from time to time.
Waterfront dining and fresh seafood are plentiful, especially if you venture out to Shem Creek and Isle of Palms. Restaurants like the Shem Creek Crab House offer southern comforts like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and Lowcountry steam pots with sunset views.
Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar offer multiple levels of indoor and outdoor waterfront seating, live music, and trivia nights. Their menu includes seafood favorites like fries drenched in she-crab soup, raw oysters, and fresh catch sandwiches.
A Vacation Steeped in History, Culture, and Sunny Shores
Charleston, South Carolina, invites vacationers to experience its cultural richness, sunny beaches, and delicious cuisine. It’s a city that offers relaxation, outdoor adventures, and a unique journey through America’s past.
Whether exploring its charming streets, enjoying its coastal beauty, or savoring Lowcountry flavors, Charleston promises a one-of-a-kind vacation experience you won’t forget.
