Family Things to Do in Charleston Sc This Weekend
Looking for fun things to practice in Charleston?
Charleston doesn't hold the official title of S Carolina's uppercase, only in the eyes of its residents — and the seven.3 million excited tourists who visit each year — the waterfront city is the undisputed center of the country'due south history, amusement, and art.
With a busy past that spans from American settlement to the dark ages of slavery and the Civil State of war, up to its modern status as a vibrant cultural hub, Charleston boasts activities suitable to any and every kind of tourist.
History buffs volition exist humbled past the centuries-old plantations and intricate museums, adventurers will rejoice with a plethora of centre-racing h2o sports opportunities, and foodies and party-goers alike will be spoiled for selection on the buzzing King Street.
With so much to see, do, and experience, make sure to add together the Holy City to your bucket list.
1 – Check out the Fort Sumter National Monument
Noted for its historical significance equally the location of the battle that ignited the American Ceremonious War, Fort Sumter is an essential destination for whatever Charleston visitor.
Onetime-school cannons, real shrapnel, and historic brick fortitudes line the area; complementing its role in shaping mod America, the monument in its own right is visually impressive, thank you to its location directly overlooking the water.
2 – Get goosebumps on a supernatural ghost bout
On the surface, Charleston is vivid, cocked, and colorful; but the heartbeat of Southward Carolina as well sports a dark, mysterious past — with a tumultuous 300-year history, Charleston is considered 1 of the almost haunted cities in America.
Walkthrough the paranormal places like the Old Exchange dungeon, while hearing spooky tales of orphan poltergeists and the centuries-old residents who never truly left.
For a unique twist on the more traditional ghost tour, combine the spooks with a bar crawl, or even take to the open waters on a haunted cruise that sails through sites of pirate attacks and naval battles.
iii – Embark on a line-fishing trip
Join a knowledgeable skipper and head out to the open ocean where you'll try your hand at reeling in a few fish!
While many chartered fishing tours find their best catches effectually local Lowcountry areas like Kiawah Isle or Folly Beach, the highly-experienced captains follow the fish.
So no affair where you stop up anchoring, expect at least a few bites from the likes of barracuda, triggerfish, and red snapper.
four – Stride dorsum in fourth dimension at the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
With its doors open to visitors for over 150 years (since 1870, to be verbal), Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is well-deserving of its official title as the oldest public garden in America.
The sprawling 464-acre property includes a maze and small zoo (which kids admittedly adore), a solarium, buffet, and a theatre — where guests can sit dorsum, relax, and lookout man a xxx-minute picture show detailing the fascinating history of this nearly-400-year-sometime Plantation.
5 – Try a new and heady water sport
Whether you require the adrenaline blitz or prefer something a little slower and more relaxing, HydroFly Watersports has got y'all covered.
From tubing to wakeboarding, Flyboarding, even booze cruising and boat charters, there's an activeness suitable to whatever budget and intensity level.
Whichever action you cull, you'll expect dorsum on it as one of the best things to do in Charleston!
The crown precious stone of any HydroFly feel is the Tiki Hut, the perfectly private floating isle to soak in the view and sip on a cold drink.
half dozen – Walk under the oaks at the Drayton Hall Plantation
Overlooking the Ashley River, about a 25-minute drive from downtown Charleston, the Drayton Hall Plantation holds the title of the oldest unrestored plantation house in America that remains publically accessible.
Founded in 1742, information technology's also the oldest example of Palladian architecture.
125 acres of oak trees, ponds, and riverways surround the master house, ensuring a cute atmosphere to provide contrast to the eye-opening history lessons.
7 – Board a Charleston Harbor sightseeing prowl
Because its location on the shores of the Atlantic, it'd be remiss of any traveler to overlook a Charleston sightseeing cruise.
By day or as the lord's day sets, climb aboard the historic "Carolina Belle" for history fused with relaxation.
As the live narration echoes over the decks, travelers tin can soak in views of some of the Holy City'southward nigh renowned landmarks, including Fort Sumter, the USS Yorktown, and the Ravenel Span.
8 – Feel the thrills on a narrated speed gunkhole chance
Turn the punch up a notch with a loftier-octane sightseeing speed gunkhole prowl!
During the roughly 2-hour narrated tour, guests can take the helm of their own individual jet boat, carving through the waves at loftier speeds and admiring impressive landmarks similar the Battery and the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier at the same time.
The speed boats operate year-circular, although it'south wise to bring a jacket if visiting in the winter (it can become mighty windy on the waters!).
9 – Explore the stunning gardens at Middleton Place
Boasting some of the most exquisitely preserved gardens of any onetime rice plantation in the country, the 65-acre, 300-year-old Middleton Place presents as an inviting place to spend an afternoon.
While the astonishing landscaped gardens are an allure in their own correct, the property too houses a museum, live entertainment, farm animals, and offers a humbling tour that takes visitors on an educational journey into the former slave trade.
x – Treat yourself with a luxury dinner cruise
With a menu of delectable Southern dishes, live music, and a full-service bar, a polish-sailing dinner cruise on the harbor is an absolute must for any Charleston visitor.
After indulging in the freshly-fabricated 3- or 4-class dinner, caput to the open-air ascertainment deck (or stay inside in the air-conditioned department) for unmatched views of the urban center's well-nigh photographed landmarks.
If luxury is the proper name of the game, a prowl is one of the best things to do in Charleston!
11 – Trot through the town in a horse-drawn wagon
Footstep back in time and remainder those weary feet by exploring the vibrant urban center streets on an old-fashioned horse-drawn cart.
Carriage rides are offered all day, from morning through to moonlight, roofing some 30 blocks of Charleston's most colorful, celebrated, and tourist-friendly streets.
Spice it upwardly by taking a haunted horse-drawn bout, during which the guide will happily share all of the urban center's spine-tingling stories.
12 – Spot dolphins on a kayak tour
Ditch the harbor cruise ship packed with selfie-obsessed tourists and explore an incredibly biodiverse region of Charleston instead: the tidal marshes.
Kayakers are guided through the apartment waterways by a knowledgeable wildlife adept, moving at picayune more than a leisurely stride.
With tours limited to 12 people, each seated in their own kayak, the likelihood of getting upwardly close and personal with loggerhead turtles or bottlenose dolphins is high.
13 – Do your residual on a stand-upwardly paddleboard
Acquire a new skill and explore the intricate, wildlife-arable tidal marshes at the aforementioned time with a slow-paced and relaxing stand-up paddleboard tour!
As a regular visitor to these parts, the professional person instructor directs paddlers to all the prime wildlife locations — those lucky enough might even exist greeted by dolphins and turtles.
For a alter of scenery, take a stand-up paddleboard out to the Morris Isle Lighthouse, located simply off the northern coast of Folly Beach
fourteen – Channel your inner Picasso at the Gibbes Museum of Fine art
While Charleston rings of American history, the 21st century has seen the city catapult itself into another spotlight: the artistic kind.
With a number of permanent and rotating exhibits, there'southward no ameliorate place to experience the urban center'south vibrant gimmicky art scene than the Gibbes Museum of Art — one of the nation's oldest arts organizations.
Far from a run-of-the-manufacturing plant museum, Gibbes manages to blend excellent art with the intricate story of Charleston'southward history.
15 – Taste local treats on a defended food tour
Tantalizing tourists' tastebuds with a combination of fresh seafood and classic Southern fare, the city-broad menu is second-to-none in the taste section.
Bring together a local chef or foodie (because locals always know best) and traverse through the urban center's backstreets and alleyways, sampling a collection of the area's nigh famous dishes — like grits, fried oysters, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Hush Puppies — while learning well-nigh Charleston's intricate history the whole way through.
16 – Down a few beers on a Charleston pub crawl
The people of Charleston love to wet their whistles, and the statistics prove information technology. With that in mind, it makes plenty of sense that the city'due south bar scene — particularly on King Street — is only increasing in popularity.
Avert the tourist traps and uncover the subconscious gems, the dive bars, and the favorite local haunts (often housed in historic buildings) by joining a locally-led pub crawl. For some extra pazzazz, combine the beers with a haunted urban center tour!
17 – Look out to the bounding main at Bombardment & White Point Gardens
Nestled in the historic downtown district, straddling the waterfront, White Point Gardens provides plenty of shade to enjoy a stroll or a picnic through cute greenery.
Bring the camera because these gardens, situated next to the Battery (the metropolis'south iconic defensive seawall and promenade), provide unbeatable views of both Fort Sumter and the sparkling Charleston Harbor.
eighteen – Stroll down the Shem Creek Boardwalk
Make sure the camera batteries are charged because Shem Creek is widely considered to be the most picturesque waterway in the entire Lowcountry region.
While plenty of boat tours operate on the water (including kayaking and line-fishing), the simplest and cheapest way to soak in the ambiance is with a leisurely stroll down the 2,200-foot-long Shem Creek Boardwalk.
Subsequently tiring out the legs, the area is teeming with restaurants and bars to relax for an 60 minutes or 2.
19 – Go the middle racing at Wild Blue Ropes Risk Park
Footstep out of your condolement zone (literally) by crossing the tightropes at Wild Blue Ropes Take chances Park.
Situated on James Island, about a 10-infinitesimal drive (or 20-minute omnibus trip) for mainland Charleston, Wild Blue boasts outdoor adventure courses for people of all ages and abilities.
Depression ropes will arrange the youngsters and beginners, while the higher, more complicated sections are perfect for the ultimate adrenaline-seekers.
20 – See the genuine confederate submarine: the H.L. Hunley
Every bit a quondam confederate submarine turned unique educational feel, the Hunley is a must for any history addict.
Thanks to its historical significance, Friends of the Hunley has justifiably become one of the urban center's most popular attractions for both locals and tourists.
The Hunley was the commencement submarine to ever successfully sink an enemy ship during wartime; this event, every bit well as the broader Civil War, plus enough of interactive exhibits are sure to go along kids and adults entertained for at least a couple of hours.
21 – Footstep into the Antebellum era at the Aiken Rhett House Museum
For an exceptional insight into the Antebellum (slavery) era in America, look no further than the Aiken Rhett House Museum.
Guided tours of the belongings take guests on an informative journey through the principal house, the original slave quarters, the railroad vehicle block, and the backlot.
Combined, the experience conveys a valuable lesson into the daily realities of the enslaved Africans that once lived and worked within its walls.
The 1818 townhouse is located smack-bang in the middle of downtown Charlestown, presenting as an easy activity to fit into any day of exploring.
22 – Visit the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
With fourscore acres of park gardens, the only zoo in the Charleston area, a picturesque oak aisle, and 10 kilometers (6 miles) of walking trails, Charles Towne Landing is a stunning slive of Mother nature, ideal for an afternoon of exploring.
Complement its beauty, the expanse besides carries enormous historical significance: as the location where British settlers landed on American soil way dorsum in 1670, the historic site recreates the life and times of Due south Carolina's early settlers in a preserved centuries-sometime village.
23 – Get hiking at the Caw Caw Interpretive Center
In one case a crucial part of several rice plantations, the Caw Caw Interpretive Center now serves as a giant, tourist-friendly jiff of fresh air, offering picturesque elevated boardwalks that traverse beyond the wetlands, swamps, marshes, and woodlands.
All in all, the sprawling park hosts virtually ten kilometers of hiking opportunities, with its diverse terrains welcoming deer, wild turkeys, and woodpeckers, only a few of the countless local species.
24 – Curiosity at the staircase in the Nathaniel Russell House
Glimpse into the long-gone world of America's aristocracy slave-traders with an informative bout of the neoclassical, 2-centuries-old Nathaniel Russell House.
Guided walkthroughs take guests throughout the home, highlighting points of architectural, historical, and cultural significance.
The three-story staircase is an architectural gem and a regular crowd favorite; meanwhile, the lessons learned and tales told are truly eye-opening.
25 – Race get-karts at Charleston Fun Park
True to its name, an affluence of fun awaits at the family-friendly Charleston Fun Park!
Migrate around corners on the high-speed go-karts, compete with your friends across 36 holes of mini-golf, unleash your inner Viking in the ax-throwing arena, or immerse yourself in virtual reality activities.
Whatever your fun season, as ane of the best things to practice in Charleston, this beloved attraction has got you covered.
26 – Learn the urban center'due south history at the Charleston Museum
Officially the oldest museum in America, the Charleston Museum has been showcasing artifacts and welcoming guests since, remarkably, 1773.
In addition to its intriguing exhibits that span from prehistoric fossils all the manner to mod times, including 'Charleston in the Revolutionary War', 'Lowcountry History', 'City Under Seige', and 'Kidstory', the museum is also connected to ii historic homes: the Heyward-Washington House and the Joseph Manigault House.
The museum is conveniently situated in the Wraggborough neighborhood, not also far from the Aiken-Rhett House Museum — making for the perfect back-to-back itinerary.
27 – Go surfing at Folly Beach
Ideal for beginners who've never or rarely hit the waves, a professionally-instructed surf lesson on the shores of Charleston Folly Beach is an unmissable outdoor activity — particularly on those hot and viscous summer days.
Best of all, the surf companies provide all the equipment and fifty-fifty option you up from your hotel. All y'all need to bring is a smiling and a tin can-do attitude!
For intermediates and experts, skip the lesson birthday and just rent your own board.
28 – Sample the flavors at the Charleston Tea Garden
Java snobs, take a bake seat — this one is for the tea lovers!
The Charleston Tea Garden (formerly the Charleston Tea Plantation) proudly sells itself as the merely tea garden in North America where tea bushes stretch out equally far as the middle can see, cheers to its 127 acres of Camellia Sinensis plants.
Notably, the garden is costless to visit — just beat out out a few bucks for the optional trolley tour, or for some take-home loose-foliage from the souvenir store.
29 – Try a few blends at Deep Water Vineyard
Sporting the title of S Carolina'due south merely winery, the 50-acre Deep Water Vineyard is an unmissable locale for whatsoever vino connoisseur visiting the area.
The wine list includes several varieties of white and cherry muscadine wines, and yes, tastings are offered!
Combine a tasting with a cheese platter to add together that extra element of fancy to the perfect day-trip getaway.
30 – Dive into a dark history at the McLeod Plantation Historic Site
Since its establishment in 1851, the McLeod Plantation has played host to some of the nation'due south darkest and near historically-pregnant times.
These times of slavery and inequality, and the stories which resonate from them, are detailed exceptionally well through the celebrated site'southward permanent exhibits and knowledgeable tour guides.
Also the main house and the outhouses, the grounds as well include an outdoor pavilion, a stunning oak-tree alleyway, and the famous McLeod Oak, which is believed to be over 600 years old.
31 – Visit a historic landmark: the Sometime Exchange & Provost Dungeon
A Charleston landmark for the better role of ii and a one-half centuries, no trip to this Southern city is complete without at least a brief stroll through the One-time Exchange & Provost Dungeon.
While the majority of walking, cycling, and horse-fatigued tours will pass by this renowned institution, exploring the history within its walls — particularly, in the dungeon — is a must.
32 – Understand the past at the Old Slave Mart Museum
When the notorious slave trade was all the same thriving in the South, this holding served as an auction firm, all the way up to Nov of 1863.
Today, it remains one of the just slave sale galleries still in existence, and the only i in South Carolina.
Popular with visitors and locals alike, through true stories of one-time slaves, the Old Slave Mart Museum provides a unique and humbling insight into the region's tumultuous past — an insight that very few museums beyond the country tin replicate.
33 – Grab a beer or ii at Palmetto Brewery
The owners of Palmetto Brewery are chuffed to call themselves Southward Carolina'due south starting time craft brewery, and the hordes of thirsty customers are every bit chuffed to drink there!
With both seasonal and mainstay brews, including mouth-watering IPAs, lagers, fruity ales, and even cookie-flavored stouts, there's a taste for every palate.
Brand sure to sample the Idle Speed — an undisputed oversupply favorite. Can't make up one's mind what to drink? So opt for a tasting flight!
34 – Slide downwardly the pole at the Northward Charleston Fire Museum
Housing a marvelous collection of over xx fully restored firefighting vehicles that date back all the way to the 1780s, the North Charleston Fire Museum is a must-see for petrolheads and history buffs alike.
The center is applauded for its abundance of interactive features, highlighted by none other than the traditional fireman's pole!
35 – Stare in awe at the enormous Angel Oak
Resembling a real-world Whomping Willow and thought to be one of the oldest living oak trees e of the Mississippi River, the Angel Oak on Johns Island is unlike whatever other tree on the planet.
Towering over 20 meters loftier (66+ feet) with winding roots and sprawling branches, this tree makes for the perfect selfie properties.
The impressive piece of mother nature is totally free to visit, providing enough of shade for a relaxing picnic on the grass.
36 – Meet local artists at the Charleston Urban center Market
Considered the cultural heart of Charleston, the Charleston City Marketplace has been a longstanding icon, welcoming locals and tourists through its celebrated doors since the early 19th century.
Nestled inside the 200-twelvemonth old brick buildings are over 300 vibrant pop-up shops, with endless craft vendors to brand for the perfect unique souvenir.
Afterwards exploring i of the nation's oldest public markets, the waterfront and its many restaurants are inside a 10-minute walk.
37 – Join a Schooner Pride dusk sailing tour
There'due south no better mode to allow afternoon steer into the evening than with unrivaled panoramic views of the metropolis'due south harbor from the decks of a classic tall transport.
Photographic camera at the ready; the 84-foot-tall send sails past staple landmarks similar Fort Sumter, Patriots Point, and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, while also often coming in contact with pods of friendly bottlenosed dolphins.
38 – Touch a stingray at the South Carolina Aquarium
More than 5,000 sea critters telephone call the South Carolina Aquarium home, encompassing stingrays, sharks, horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and prickly urchins — merely to name a few.
Besides the traditional aquarium tanks, visitors are blest with the hazard to watch the staff in activity at the Zucker Family Ocean Turtle Recovery, learning nigh the efforts that help sick and injured turtles make it back to full health.
Kids are certain to captivate over the interactive touch-tanks besides.
39 – Say "cheers!" at Firefly Distillery
Vodka aficionados, stop whatever you're doing and add the Firefly Distillery to your Charleston bucket list!
As the oldest working distillery in the urban center, Firefly has had plenty of fourth dimension to perfect its craft — and the proof is in the product!
Make an effort to try the famous, hand-crafted, sweet tea flavored vodka, concocted from Louisiana sugar cane and local tea leaves.
If the schedule lines up, effort to head to the distillery on the weekend — with keen live music, the atmosphere is turned up a notch!
forty – Take a front-row seat at the Charleston Music Hall
Showcasing a constantly rotating calendar of earth-famous artists, every night is something special at the Charleston Music Hall.
In improver to concerts spanning the entire genre spectrum, the hall likewise hosts comedy nighttime and special events (like Christmas extravaganzas) — check out the venue'southward schedule to come across who's performing during your visit.
Hint: book in advance — thanks to its reputation every bit 1 of the best things to do in Charleston, the shows frequently sell out.
41 – Consume at Charleston's top-rated restaurant, Halls Chophouse
Foodies, get excited! Thanks to its prime steaks, delicious Lowcountry meals, and fresh seafood specialties, Halls Bistro continues to hold the coveted title as the best eaterie in the metropolis (according to TripAdvisor).
With a collection of dishes equally delicious as they are photogenic, it's no wonder that this revered Charleston establishment has managed to maintain a 5-star rating.
At that place's but one way to truly experience its wonder: volume a table!
42 – Appreciate local musicians at the Forte Jazz Lounge
Sporting a reputation as the only dedicated jazz listening room beyond the entire Holy City, the Forte Jazz Lounge is an essential finish for whatsoever audiophiles planning a visit in the near future.
A rotating fixture of local musicians accept middle stage in the cozy, New York-style lounge; meanwhile, guests can sit back, soak it all in, and enjoy a craft beer or bottle of bubble from the fully-stocked bar.
43 – Catch a comedy show at Theatre 99
Express mirth your socks off at Theatre 99, Charleston's beloved dwelling of improv comedy.
Much more of a theatre than a traditional comedy club, this 130-seat venue puts on hilarious displays of agile improv performances that encompass props, body language, and even the occasional audience participation
Information technology's a far more elaborate and immersive experience than just a comedian waxing jokes into a microphone.
Shows typically take place on Wednesday, Thursday, Fri, and Sat evenings.
44 – Scour the fresh produce at the Charleston Farmers Market
Widely considered as ane of the premier shopping hotspots in the metropolis, the Charleston Farmers Market is teeming with fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods and locally-fabricated jams, and quirky arts and crafts vendors.
Thanks to its convenient location in Marion Square in the city center, the Farmers Market is an easy action to add to whatsoever Saturday morning itinerary.
45 – Be treated like royalty at the Kiawah Isle Golf Resort
This place is much more than than just a golf grade.
Featuring an oceanfront hotel, five-Star accommodations, world-grade civilities, and, of course, not one but v perfectly curated golf courses, the Kiawah Island Golf Resort is known almost and far every bit i of the nation'due south all-time.
Book a tee time, head to the spa or Nature Middle, rent a cycle to explore the surface area or head to the Turtles' Nest Art Studio — y'all'll be spoiled for choice for things to do!
46 – Keep a King Street shopping spree!
Shopaholics, this might just headline your list of things to do in Charleston, SC!
With a growing reputation as one of the top 10 shopping districts in the USA (as judged by high-contour publications like Forbes), King Street is a shopper's paradise epitomizing Southern charm.
From expensive international brands to vintage stores, and one-of-a-kind boutiques like Bluish Bicycle Books or Croghan's Precious stone Box, this strip has it all.
After maxing out the credit bill of fare, choose from an abundance of restaurants, bars, and clubs to cap off the evening (or even party into the early on hours of the morning).
47 – Brand some friends on a Saltwater Cycle political party gunkhole
Promising to exist an unforgettable couple of hours on the waters of the Lowcountry, Saltwater Cycle combines sightseeing with socializing and plenty of drinks to boot.
The captains are friendly and happy to orchestrate some icebreaker games, the music is pumping, and with a BYO policy, there's sure to be plenty of new friends made along the way.
48 – Visit the celebrated Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
Situated just 30 minutes from the main haunts of Charleston, guests might already recognize Boone Hall from its office as the backdrop in Nick Cassavetes' The Notebook.
Yet, this historic landmark is far more a movie fix — it's an insight into America's bleak past, with plenty to acquire during expert-led tractor tours and Gullah culture presentations.
Fifty-fifty if history isn't your cup of tea, the globe-famous Avenue Of Oaks entranceway is worth a visit in its own correct.
49 – Find subconscious treasures with Charleston Fossil Adventures
Forget about activities like Ripley's and Madame Tussauds — if y'all're looking for something totally unique and exclusive to Charleston, sign up for a guided fossil hunting trip with Charleston Fossil Adventures.
They'll provide the equipment, information, and transportation to find shark teeth, Native American artifacts, and whatever else the ocean throws upwards; all you need to bring is a sense of curiosity and gamble.
50 – Take middle stage at the Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre and Shoppe
Become part of the murder mystery show at one of Charleston's near cherished amusement venues.
The engaging, interactive performances at Black Fedora are a hoot for the whole family, with appetizers, homemade desserts, and drinks capping off a swell evening.
On the fashion out, stop in the gift store and check out all the quirky, mystery-themed souvenirs on brandish.
51 – Visit the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Located just across from the famous Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the Patriots Signal Naval & Maritime Museum is, undoubtedly, one of the most impressive military museums in America.
Lath the USS Yorktown, a World War 2-era shipping carrier, and walk in the steps of war heroes. It'south a must-visit for whatever history vitrify.
Visiting several attractions in Charleston?
Book a TourPass and salvage time and money on the best tours, tourist attractions and historic sites in Charleston.
Where to go adjacent?
Make certain to visit Myrtle Beach, located just 100 miles away from Charleston. Accept a look at our list of fun things to do in Myrtle Beach.
Heading South? Check out our selection of fun & unusual things to practice in Savannah.
We hope you lot have enjoyed our pick of things to practice in Charleston. Exercise not hesitate to comment below if y'all know other interesting places to visit in Charleston you wish to recommend.
As always, happy travels!
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