Virtual Tourist

Things to do in Charleston

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in Charleston, Selected for You!

Aug 20, 2025 - Aug 21, 2025
2 adults, 1 room
Find
Good (5071)

New Cooper River Bridge
Open 24 hours
Bridge
Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge
View map
New Cooper River Bridge in Charleston is a modern cable-stayed bridge featuring illuminated triangular arches and dedicated bike/walking lanes.

Duration: 1 hour for a walk or bike ride across the bridge.

Free.

Good (1379)

Marion Square
7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Park
329 Meeting St
View map
Marion Square in Charleston is a 10-acre urban green space featuring historic monuments and a popular farmers market, ideal for visitors and locals alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may involve a fee.

Good (9623)

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Mo-Su 09:00-17:00
Garden
3550 Ashley River Road
View map
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in Charleston, South Carolina, features lush gardens dating back to pre-Revolutionary War times and offers tours, a petting zoo, and a nature center.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Paid. Discounts available for children, seniors, and military personnel.

Good (815)

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Park
1500 Old Towne Rd
View map
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is a historic village in Charleston, SC, showcasing the life of early American settlers and the founding of the Carolina colony in 1670.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special programs may have additional costs.

Good (1866)

The Calhoun Mansion
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
16 Meeting St
View map
Calhoun Mansion in Charleston is an Italianate Revival architectural treasure, featuring 24,000 sq ft of history, art, and craft since 1876.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Paid. $20 for adults, $10 for children (ages 6-12), free for children under 6.

Good (822)

Children's Museum of the Lowcountry
Tu-Sa 09:00-17:00; Su 12:00-17:00
Museum
25 Ann Street
View map
The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry in Charleston fosters creativity and curiosity through interactive exhibits and educational programs for children and families.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Admission: $10 for adults and children over 1 year, free for children under 1.

Good (4947)

South Carolina Aquarium
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Aquarium
100 Aquarium Wharf Charleston Harbor
View map
South Carolina Aquarium features interactive exhibits and hundreds of aquatic creatures, highlighting native wildlife in an engaging environment in Charleston.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $29.95, Children (3-12): $24.95, Seniors (65+): $25.95. Children under 3 are free.

Good (2072)

Old Slave Mart Museum
Mo-Sa 09:00-17:00
Museum
6 Chalmers St
View map
Old Slave Mart Museum in Charleston, SC, reveals the dark history of the slave trade in the U.S. through powerful exhibits and artifacts from the mid-1800s.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Combination tickets with the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon cost adult/child $15/8.

Good (14)

First Scots Presbyterian Church
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
53 Meeting St (at Tradd St.)
View map
First Scots Presbyterian Church in Charleston, SC, established in 1731, features classic architecture and rich historical significance in the local community.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations encouraged.

Good (4)

MacAulay Museum of Dental History
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Museum
175 Ashley Ave
View map
The MacAulay Museum of Dental History in Charleston highlights South Carolina's dental history with exhibits from the mid-19th century to the 1960s.

Duration: 1.5 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (12)

Charleston Southern University
8:00 AM–5:00 PM
University
9200 University Blvd Across from Trident Hospital
View map
Charleston Southern University is a private Southern Baptist institution in North Charleston, South Carolina, founded in 1964, offering diverse programs and campus events.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free access to campus. Some specific events may require a paid ticket.

Plum Elements
10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Gallery
2 King St
View map
Plum Elements in Charleston offers a unique gallery experience, showcasing contemporary art and diverse cultural expressions. Visitors can engage with innovative works and local talent.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (8251)

Patriots Point
Mar-Sep: Mo-Su 09:00-18:30; Oct-Feb: Mo-Fr 10:00-17:00, Sa-Su 9:00-17:00
Museum
40 Patriots Point Rd (Patriots Point Museum)
View map
Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum in Charleston features the USS Yorktown, WWII aircraft, and prominent naval exhibits. Explore ships, the Medal of Honor Museum, and more.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

Adults: $20, Children (6-11): $12, Under 6: Free.

Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Course
7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Golf Course
20 Dunvegan Dr (Dunvegan Drive & Muirfield Parkway)
View map
Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Course in Charleston features a challenging 18-hole layout, blending natural beauty with well-maintained greens and a rich Southern heritage.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees vary by season. Approximately $40-$60 for adults, and discounts for juniors and seniors.

West Ashley Shoppes Shopping Center
10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Mall
946 Orleans Rd (btwn Sam Rittenberg Boulevard & Hazelwood Drive)
View map
West Ashley Shoppes Shopping Center in Charleston offers diverse shopping options, dining establishments, and a community-centric atmosphere suited for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fee required for general shopping access.

Harbor View Shopping Center
10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
South Carolina
View map
Harbor View Shopping Center in Charleston, USA, offers a variety of shopping options, dining, and entertainment, making it a convenient retail destination.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Free. No entry fee is required to access the shopping center.

Ashley Oaks Plaza Shopping Center
10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Mall
1119 Wappoo Rd (at Ashley River Road)
View map
Ashley Oaks Plaza Shopping Center is a vibrant retail destination located in Charleston, offering diverse shopping options, dining, and entertainment.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a nominal fee.

The Quadrangle Shopping Center
10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
630 Skylark Dr (btwn Sam Rittenberg Blvd & Savannah Hwy)
View map
The Quadrangle Shopping Center in Charleston offers diverse shopping options with various retail stores and dining experiences, catering to all ages and tastes.

Duration: 1–3 hours.

Free. No cost to enter, but individual retailers may charge for their products.

Good (3642)

White Point Garden
Open 24 hours
Park
cnr East Battery & Murray Blvd
View map
White Point Gardens is a historic waterfront park in Charleston, SC, featuring military monuments, paved paths, and picnic areas with views of Fort Sumter.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free.

Good (5146)

Middleton Place
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Garden
4300 Ashley River Road
View map
Middleton Place, an 18th-century rice plantation in Charleston, features America's oldest landscaped gardens, a museum, and eco-friendly lodging.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid. Adults: $28, Seniors: $24, Children (6-12): $12, under 6 free.

Good (1563)

The Charleston Museum
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
360 Meeting St (at John Street)
View map
Charleston Museum, founded in 1773, is America's first museum, showcasing South Carolina's cultural and natural history with a vast array of regional artifacts.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $12, Seniors (65+): $10, Children (ages 3-12): $6, Free for children under 3.

Good (332)

Confederate Museum
Th-Su 10:00-16:00
Museum
188 Meeting St Upstairs at the corner of Market and Meeting
View map
Confederate Museum in Charleston offers insights into the War Between the States with uniforms, flags, weapons, and personal items from that era.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (1039)

Edmondston-Alston House
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Museum
21 E Battery St
View map
Edmondston-Alston House in Charleston, SC, is a historic home showcasing family artifacts and stunning views of Charleston Harbor, with ties to the Civil War.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Guided tours: $10 for adults, $5 for children; free for residents of Charleston.

Good (1677)

Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
122 E Bay St
View map
Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon in Charleston, SC is a historic site featuring tours of revolutionary history and a former prison for patriots.

Duration: 1.5 hours.

Combination tickets: Adult $15, Child $8. Free for children under 6.

Good (501)

Heyward-Washington House
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
87 Church St (Broad)
View map
Heyward-Washington House, a Georgian-style mansion in Charleston, SC, was built in 1772 and is significant for its ties to a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Paid. Entry fee varies by age; discounts available for children and seniors.

Good (213)

The Powder Magazine
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
79 Cumberland St (at Church St)
View map
Powder Magazine in Charleston, SC, is a military museum showcasing the only remaining powder storage building from the 17th century through the Revolutionary War.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for specific events.

Good (9)

Thomas Elfe House
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
54 Queen St
View map
Thomas Elfe House in Charleston is a historic site, renowned for its architectural significance and rich history dating back to the early 18th century.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Guided tours may have a fee.

Good (475)

Joseph Manigault House
Mo-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 12:00-17:00
Museum
350 Meeting Street
View map
Joseph Manigault House, built in 1803, is a Federal-style mansion in Charleston, showcasing period furnishings from American, French, and British origins.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Adults: $12, Seniors: $10, Children (6-12): $6. Children under 6: Free.

Good (29)

The Best Friend Train Museum
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
23 Ann St
View map
Best Friend Museum in Charleston celebrates friendship through unique exhibits, interactive displays, and engaging programs for all ages.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some workshops may incur a fee.

Good (9)

Old St Andrews Parish Church
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
2604 Ashley River Rd
View map
Old St Andrews Parish Church in Charleston, built in 1706, is a historical church known for its colonial architecture and serene graveyard features.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Charleston County Parks
7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Public Building
861 Riverland Dr
View map
Charleston County Park offers a range of outdoor activities, picnic areas, and nature trails, located in Charleston, South Carolina. A destination for recreation and relaxation.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a fee.

North Charleston Coliseum Performing Arts Center
10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Theater
5001 Coliseum Dr (at Montague Ave)
View map
North Charleston Coliseum is a multi-purpose arena in Charleston, SC, hosting concerts, sports events, and trade shows. Built in 1993, it remains a central hub for entertainment.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours depending on the event.

Varies by event. General admission typically ranges from $20 to $150.

Good (871)

College of Charleston
8:00 AM–5:00 PM
University
66 George St
View map
College of Charleston, founded in 1770, is a recognized public liberal arts university in historic downtown Charleston, SC, offering a blend of quality education and vibrant student life.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some events may require admission fees.

Good (2108)

Drayton Hall
9:00 AM–5:30 PM
Museum
3380 Ashley River Rd
View map
Drayton Hall, founded circa 1738, is America’s oldest unrestored plantation house, offering insights into antebellum life and African American history in Charleston, SC.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Paid. Adults: $16, Seniors: $14, Students: $12, Children (under 12): Free.

Good (365)

Audubon Swamp Garden
8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Garden
3550 Magnolia Plantation Rd
View map
Audubon Swamp Garden is a 60-acre wildlife preserve in Charleston, SC, featuring diverse habitats, gardens, and swamp ecosystems for nature enthusiasts.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some guided tours may have a nominal fee.

Good (325)

Gibbes Museum of Art
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
135 Meeting St
View map
Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston houses over 10,000 American artworks, showcasing the region's rich artistic heritage in a historic Beaux Arts building.

Duration: About 2–3 hours.

Free for ground floor access; special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (160)

Circular Congregational Church
9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
138 Meeting St
View map
Circular Congregational Church in Charleston, South Carolina, features unique architecture and a rich history dating back to its founding in 1681, making it a significant cultural landmark.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations welcomed for church maintenance.

Good (121)

Saint Philip Protestant Episcopal Church
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
142 Church St (at Queen St)
View map
Saint Philip Protestant Episcopal Church, established in 1835, is a significant historical site in Charleston, featuring a cemetery with notable burials, including John C. Calhoun.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free access to the church and grounds; special events may require donations.

Good (12)

Philip Simmons Museum Home and Workshop
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Museum
30 1/2 Blake St
View map
Philip Simmons Museum Home and Workshop in Charleston preserves the legacy of master blacksmith Philip Simmons, showcasing his craft and historical significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for the preservation of the museum.

Good (123)

Mace Brown Museum of Natural History
Th-Tu 11:00-16:00
Museum
202 Calhoun St 2nd floor of School of Sciences and Mathematics Building
View map
Mace Brown Museum of Natural History in Charleston, SC features diverse fossils and natural history exhibits, ideal for enthusiasts and families alike.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (18)

Charleston County Courthouse
8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Public Building
100 Broad St (Meeting Street)
View map
Charleston County Courthouse, built in 1800, features stunning neoclassical architecture and serves as a historical landmark in Charleston, South Carolina.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

Good (39)

Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at The College of Charleston
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Gallery
161 Calhoun St
View map
Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at The College of Charleston focuses on modern art and serves as a cultural center in Charleston, South Carolina.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (766)

Shem Creek Park
Open 24 hours
Park
Coleman Boulevard
View map
Shem Creek Park in Charleston is a scenic waterfront area featuring docks, walking paths, and stunning sunset views over the harbor.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations may support park upkeep.

Good (523)

Pitt Street Bridge
Open 24 hours
Park
Pitt Street and William Street
View map
Pitt Street Bridge in Charleston, SC, showcases beautiful views along the marshes and local wildlife, attracting nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Duration: 1 - 2 hours.

Free. No entry fee is required to access the bridge.

Good (528)

Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Park
300 State Park Rd
View map
Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site showcases the remains of a colonial town with original buildings, archaeological digs, and guided tours in Dorchester County, SC.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (9820)

Fort Sumter National Monument
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
South Carolina 29412
View map
Fort Sumter National Monument, located in Charleston, South Carolina, marks the site of the first battle of the Civil War with rich history and accessible boat tours.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Boat tours to the fort may have associated costs.

Good (308)

James Island County Park
7:00 AM–9:00 PM
Park
871 Riverland Dr
View map
James Island County Park features 643 acres of natural beauty, offering a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking near Charleston, SC.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Certain events may require a fee.