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4 Unity Alley

This cozy bed and breakfast not only offers comfortable guest rooms and a full breakfast, but a dose of history and architecture as well. The inn is located in the charming French Quarter area of Charleston, and sits in a quiet alleyway amongst other historic homes and structures. The building is an old 18th century warehouse that has been extensively renovated and turned into a beautiful guesthouse centered around an intimate garden. Furnishings and accessories inside are all reproduction pieces or antiques, giving the bed and breakfast a nostalgic, homey feel. More »

Aiken-Rhett House

One of Charleston's many historic homes, the Aiken-Rhett House evokes a sense of elegant 19th century southern living. It was constructed in 1817 for businessman John Robinson, who resided there until he had to sell it in 1827. Former Governor William Aiken Jr. and his wife, Harriet, purchased the home from Robinson, and added many expansions and additions to create one of the finest homes in Charleston. Members of the extended Aiken family continued to live in the home until 1975, when the property was donated to the Charleston Museum; it then came under the ownership of the Historic Charleston Foundation when they purchased it in 1995. The stately home has been preserved and restored to its original condition, and house visitors are treated to an architectural gem, as well as beautiful period furniture and accessories. More »

Angel Oak

No visit to Charleston would be complete without a visit to the area's oldest living resident. About 1,400 years old, the Angel Oak has a few years on its Lowcountry neighbors and has seen more history than could fill a series of textbooks. While most of the area's live oak trees were harvested in the 18th and 19th centuries for shipbuilding, this hardy specimen survived and now measures roughly 65 feet tall and more than 25 feet in circumference. On a sweltering summer day, this is the tree to park yourself under; there are 17,000 square feet of shade under its wide canopy, with the longest outstretched limb reaching out 89 feet. More »

Barksdale House Inn

This stately home was constructed in 1778 by George Barksdale, a one-time member of the South Carolina House of Representatives and a Charleston planter. In 1817, George's nephew, Thomas Barksdale, sold the home and it changed hands various times until 1985, when it was immaculately restored and renovated to reflect its historic character. Today, guests can enjoy the elegant atmosphere of this inn, as well as antique furnishings and a unique historic vibe. More »

Beachwalker County Park

Located on the popular and beautiful Kiawah Island, Beachwalker County Park is a great place to go to enjoy a day on the sand. It offers a great beach for lounging and building sandcastles, as well as a specified swimming area that is supervised by lifeguards during the summer season. In addition to great beachfront property, the park's other facilities that are available for public use include dressing rooms, restrooms, showers, grills, and seasonal umbrella and beach chair rentals. More »

Bohicket Marina

This popular marina is located off of Bohicket Creek and is a great place to park your boat and/or wander around the shops and restaurants. There are about 200 deep-water boat slips at the marina that are for sale, rent, or short-term parking, as well as dry-storage options. You can also find boat rentals and a marina supply store here. After checking out the boats in the marina, head to the village, where you'll find great choices for dining and shopping that will keep everyone in the group happy. More »

Boone Hall Plantation

Boone Hall Plantation is one of the most popular plantations to visit in the South as it is one of the oldest working plantations in the country. It has continuously been growing crops for over 320 years and has expanded from producing mostly cotton and pecans to growing many other fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, peaches, pumpkins, and more. The historic plantation was established by Major Boone, and today has been restored for visitors to explore. Boone Hall puts on great living history presentations and events throughout the year (as well as a U-Pick farm), so be sure to call ahead before your visit to see what's happening. More »

Buxton East Bay Theatre

Buxton’s East Bay Theatre offers old world charm complete with chandeliers, velvet carpeting, and a raised wooden stage, all in an intimate setting. The venue seats 80 guests (and 1 ghost) in its over-stuffed theater seats rescued from the Old Garden Theatre prior to its closing. The theater makes a pleasant escape from the Charleston summer heat with a variety of lectures, storytelling, plays, Gullah singers, musical performances, and other original Lowcountry works. Check the website, or call ahead for shows and showtimes.

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Charles Towne Landing State Park and Zoo

Ancient history lovers, animal aficionados, and American history buffs will congregate at the Charles Towne Landing State Park and Zoo for a myriad of informational and interesting activities. More than just a historical site, the Charles Towne Landing State Park and Zoo shows visitors the exact spot where settlers landed and founded the first permanent European colony in the Carolinas in 1670. Visitors can see a life-sized model of a trading vessel from the 17th century and learn about the excitement and hardships of maritime travel in that era. Additionally, the park provides lectures and exhibits on the growth of the colony, agriculture, African-American history, and even a zoo showcasing the types of animals that the settlers would have encountered in the "New World." The Charles Towne Landing State Park and Zoo is also a field site for archaeologists who are currently uncovering the remains of ancient Native American civilizations. More »

Charleston City Market

Four blocks of open-air buildings filled with a wide assortment of vendors selling high quality products make up Charleston City Market. The land for the market was willed to the city by a wealthy Charleston family in the early 19th century, with the stipulation that it be put to public use. Market Hall (the main building) is eye-catching, due in part to its resemblance to a Greek temple; it was constructed in 1841, and it is now home to the Daughters of the Confederacy Museum. At the market, don't miss seeing one of Charleston's most popular wares: the sweet-grass baskets. Weavers create these beautiful baskets by hand, a craft passed down by slaves from West Africa. More »

Charleston Museum

Founded in 1773, this is the nation's first and oldest museum. With informative exhibits that include archaeological finds from the area, natural science displays, and the collected memorabilia of early patriots and Charlestonian families, the museum offers a unique insight into the roots and early inhabitants of this beautiful, historical city. Learn about the Native Americans who lived here long before the first English settler set foot on these shores, or see George Washington's christening cup in the museum's extensive early silver collection. Kids will love Kidstory, which brings history to life with interactive exhibits that young learners will appreciate and enjoy. More »

Charleston Place Hotel

This opulent hotel surrounds guests with Southern charm and luxury. It exudes 18th century design details, such as a gorgeous French chateau facade, but it also features all of the modern amenities of a 21st century hotel. The spa at the Charleston Place Hotel is also a hot spot, as it offers all of the popular treatments (facials, massages, scrubs, etc.), as well as a gorgeous horizon-edged swimming pool on the rooftop that features a retractable glass roof. If you're looking for the finest southern hospitality and elegance, the Charleston Place Hotel is for you. More »

Charleston Tea Plantation

Originally established in 1960 by Thomas J. Lipton (of Lipton tea), this tea plantation is now owned by tea giant Bigelow, and is a great place to go if you love tea. You'll learn all about the history of tea, as well as the growing, harvesting, and tea making processes that go into a great cup of tea. The plantation is unique in that it is one of the only tea plantations in the United States (most of them are in India and Asia), and guests are invited to explore the fields as well as purchase and enjoy different varieties of Bigelow tea. More »

Charleston Waterfront Park

This eight-acre park sits along the shores of Charleston Harbor, and is a great place to take a stroll or sit and enjoy an afternoon picnic. There are various fountains scattered throughout the park's lawns and walkways, as well as a pier with benches and picnic tables that are good for sitting and relaxing. The views of the harbor from Waterfront Park are spectacular, particularly on nice clear days when the sailboats cruise across the waves. If you're looking to get some exercise, the park also offers nice jogging/bicycling trails that wind along the waterfront. More »

Children's Museum of the Lowcountry

Explore, Play, Learn, and Discover at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Charleston's only museum built just for families is interactive, hands-on fun for the entire family. Step into any of the museum's eight hands-on exhibits and encounter a unique, interactive learning experience. Create a masterpiece in Creativity Castle, catch a butterfly, taste chocolate mint, rosemary or lemongrass, and learn the basics of botany in the Children's Garden. Take the wheel of a 30-foot replica shrimp boat, cast a net and weigh your catch on the dock scales. Read a book on King Arthur’s bed, dress up in a medieval costume or cook a feast in the two-story castle. Learn about the importance of making healthy eating choices as you shop in the healthy grocery store. More »

Citadel Archives & Museum

This museum showcases historical artifacts and items from the Military College of South Carolina (a.k.a. the Citadel)'s past. The collections here are organized into chronological order, from the Citadel's founding in 1842 to present day. Photographs, memorabilia, Citadel rings, uniforms, and other items are on display in the museum, while the archives host a large collection of personal letters, diaries, reports, publications, and other documents. Some of the most notable pieces in the collection include letters from the famous Confederate General Ellison Capers and photographs and military papers of General Mark W. Clark from World War II. More »

College of Charleston

The oldest higher educational institution in South Carolina, the College of Charleston was established in 1770 by a notable group of scholars that included several Founding Fathers and three signers of the Declaration of Independence. The school has always played an important role in the Charleston community; most notably in 1836 when it was the first institution in the country to become a municipal school, after the city took responsibility for its financial support. Although the buildings on campus have faced considerable challenges (several hurricanes and the Civil War), there are many beautiful historical structures still standing on this popular, verdant campus. Primarily focused on liberal arts, the College of Charleston remains a respected scholastic institution to this day. More »

Dock Street Theatre

Originally opened in 1736, the Dock Street Theatre is a popular Charleston historic landmark, and was one of the first buildings dedicated to theater in the United States. The building was used for a variety of different purposes throughout its lifetime, such as the famous Planter's Hotel from 1809 through the 1920s. In the 1930s, it was renovated as a Works Progress Administration project, thanks to the funding work of then-mayor Burnet R. Maybank. After its restoration, the theater once again became a center for performing arts in Charleston, seating up to 464 people and serving as the home of the Charleston Stage Company. More »

Drayton Hall

This gorgeous Georgian-Palladian home is one of the best representations of a preserved plantation home in the Charleston area. The stately home has survived the American Revolution, Civil War, hurricanes, and other events throughout its lifetime, and has escaped unscathed. The plantation was purchased in the 1738 by John Drayton and his family, who did various renovations and additions over the years to the original main house, kitchen building, and out buildings that came on the 200 acre property. In 1974, the home was finally sold by Charles and Frank Drayton to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, who opened the elegantly-preserved home for public tours in 1977. More »

Family Circle Tennis Centre

The Family Circle Tennis Center is one of the most popular places to play tennis in the area, due to its multitudes of courts, continuous stream of events and festivals, and state-of-the-art facilities. The Center opened on Daniel Island in 2001 and features 13 clay courts and 4 hard courts that are usable during both day and night, as they're well-lit. The whole facility encompasses about 32 acres, which includes the courts as well as a pro-shop where you can stock up on tennis equipment, a park where the kids can play, and a clubhouse. Various tournaments are held at this top-notch facility each year, including the popular Family Cup and the AVP Charleston Open. More »

Folly Beach

This six-mile-long by half-mile-wide stretch of sandy beach sports condos, a fishing pier, and loads of history. In the 1930s, the giant pier and pavilion (later destroyed by fire) rose to fame for billing such big-name acts as Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, the Ink Spots, and Guy Lombardo. Gershwin fans may be interested to know that George and Ira composed "Porgy and Bess" while staying on the beach. Although fire wiped out most of the beach's historical structures, the area is still a popular draw for surfers, picnickers, anglers, and sunbathers, and it offers a pleasant retreat from harried site-seeing for the brain-tired traveler. More »

Fort Moultrie National Monument

Constructed in the 18th century to defend the waterways of South Carolina, Fort Moultrie's first call of duty was when British Admiral Sir Peter Parker attacked the coast in 1776. Since many of the fort's structures were built out of Palmetto wood, which is soft and pliable, the cannonballs that were fired at the fort were reflected and didn't cause much damage at all to the fort. Although Moultrie was eventually captured by the British, its role in saving Charleston from that initial attack is memorable in South Carolina's history. By 1804, a new Fort Moultrie had been constructed out of brick over the original wood fort. Today, Fort Moultrie National Monument is part of the adjacent Fort Sumter National Monument, although Moultrie offers a unique perspective on the early Palmetto log forts of the 18th century. More »

Fort Sumter National Monument

As the site of the first battle of the Civil War, Fort Sumter has a notable place in American history. Construction on the five-sided brick fort started in 1827, and over 70,000 tons of granite were imported from New England to build the massive structure. On April 12, 1861, Confederate soldiers opened fire on Fort Sumter, where Major Robert Anderson and about 127 army men had illegally stationed themselves. By the next day, the troops at Fort Sumter surrendered and officially ended the first Civil War skirmish. The fort was used as a Confederate stronghold throughout the war, although after the war ended, Sumter had been destroyed. It was rebuilt and only occasionally utilized by the military after the Civil War, and now the fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in South Carolina. Visitors must either take a 30 minute ferry ride from the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center or arrive via private boat to reach the fort itself which is located on an island offshore. More »

Gibbes Museum of Art

This museum's permanent collection includes over 10,000 pieces of art--primarily American art with an emphasis on the art of Charleston and the South Carolina Low-country. The museum features a historical collection of paintings, prints, drawing, photographs, portraits, and sculpture. Noted artists on display include Washington Allston, Gilbert Stuart and America's first professional female artist, Henrietta Johnston. The Gibbes is a great place to learn about the history of Charleston through art. More »

Governor's House Inn

This bed and breakfast inn has more to it than lovely gardens and scrumptious morning meals. The Governor's House Inn was once the home of Edward Rutledge, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and an influential governor of South Carolina. Today, the home is listed on the National Register of Historic places and has been completely restored to its 18th century elegance. The Inn is one of the most sophisticated in Charleston, and features crystal chandeliers, four-poster beds, original hardwood floors, and private porches. If you're looking for a taste of Southern civility and charm with your Charleston lodging, the Governor's House Inn is the perfect place to stay. More »

H.L. Hunley Submarine

One of the Civil War's most fascinating mysteries is the story of the H.L. Hunley. The Hunley has the distinction of being the first submarine to sink an enemy vessel in combat, a feat that would not be repeated until World War I. However, the story of the Hunley is mired in tragedy. After being constructed, two consecutive crews testing the Hunley drowned in the submarine. It was the third crew that enabled the Hunley to make its infamous mission. It was on February 17th, 1864, that the H.L. Hunley came across the Housatonic, a Union ship, floating about three miles from the Charleston Harbor. The crew on the Hunley fired upon the Housatonic and successfully sunk the vessel within minutes. After the confrontation, the Hunley headed back to port in Charleston. Then, after signaling Confederate soldiers stationed on nearby Sullivan's Island, it vanished. For 137 years many believed that the submarine was lost forever; however, in 1995 adventurer Clive Cussler and his team found the submarine buried in sand at the bottom of the ocean near the Charleston Harbor. The Hunley has since been raised and is currently being studied by scientists attempting to discern its final moments. Fortunately for the rest of us fascinated by the mystery of Hunley, visitors can now see the craft at the Warren Lasch Conservation Center, where tours of the H.L. Hunley are available on the weekends. Tours are not available on weekdays. Public tours are available Saturdays 10am-4:30pm /5:00 and Sundays Noon-4:30pm/ 5:00pm. Only groups of 20+ individuals may schedule in advance a weekday tour. Please call 843-743-4865 ext. 32.



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Heyward-Washington House

This historic home was constructed in 1772 by rice planter Daniel Heyward. He built it for his son, Thomas Heyward, Jr., a patriot leader and signer of the Declaration of Independence. In 1791, the City of Charleston rented the house as lodging for their distinguished guest, former president George Washington. Today, visitors can tour the house and look at the beautiful period furnishings (many of them are locally crafted) and decorations. In addition to the main house, there are other areas to explore here, including a kitchen building, a carriage house, and gorgeous formal gardens. More »

Isle of Palms County Park

Spend a day at the beach at the Isle of Palms County Beach Park. Centrally located on the Isle of Palms coastline this beach is a great place for a family outing with seasonal lifeguards and plenty of parking. Run by the Charleston Country Park and Recreation Commission, this beach also offers beach chair and umbrella rentals, perfect for families traveling without beach gear. Amenities at this popular beach include restrooms, outdoor showers, and dressing areas. Here you can safely play in the water, stroll along the boardwalks, pack a picnic, and play at the sand volleyball court. More »

Jewish Heritage Collection

A part of the College of Charleston's Addlestone Library, the Jewish Heritage Collection is home to extensive archives documenting the Jewish experience, people, and culture in South Carolina. Focusing on the past and present, the project was established in 1995 by the Jewish Society of South Carolina along with the Jewish Studies program at the College of Charleston, and the University of South Carolina's McKissick Museum. The collection includes historical documents, photographs, memoirs, interviews, and more. More »

John Rutledge House Inn

This historic home was built in 1763 by John Rutledge, one of the famed signers of the United States Constitution and prominent political figure in South Carolina. After changing hands of ownership many times over, the house was eventually renovated and fully restored to include many of its original architectural details. Today, the John Rutledge House Inn welcomes guest from around the country and the world to stay in the historic home located in the heart of Downtown Charleston. More »

Joseph Manigault House

Designed and built in 1803 by Charleston architect Gabriel Manigault for his brother Joseph, this historic gem is one of the nation's most beautiful remaining examples of the Adam architectural style. An elegant staircase graces the interior, along with a superb collection of period furniture. Outside, you'll find a lovely gate temple in the rear garden. The house was nearly torn down in the 1920s, but it mercifully survived, although the gate temple was used as the restroom for an oil company's service station for a while. During WWII, the house found a new life as a USO canteen for servicemen passing through Charleston's Navy Yard. Now, the house has reclaimed its original grandeur and is owned and operated by the Charleston Museum as a National Historic Landmark. More »

Joseph P Riley Jr Park

Nicknamed "The Joe", the Joseph P Riley Jr Park is a baseball stadium in Charleston that is named after the city's longest serving mayor of the same name. The park is mostly used by the Charleston RiverDogs minor league baseball team in addition to the men's basketball team at the nearby university, The Citadel. The stadium is located on the eastern part of downtown Charleston on the banks of the Ashley River and can seat 6,000 people for ball games and events. More »

Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue

Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue, located downtown on Charleston's Hasell Street, is the second oldest synagogue in the United States and the oldest in continuous use. The temple has the fourth oldest Jewish congregation in the continental United States (after New York, Newport, and Savannah). Beth Elohim is acknowledged as the birthplace of Reform Judaism in the United States. The congregation's facilities include the synagogue, originally constructed in 1794; Pearlstine Hall, formerly called Bicentennial Tabernacle, which was erected to commemorate the congregation's 200th anniversary; the Archives Museum; and a classroom building. More »

Karpeles Manuscript Museum

This Charleston library is part of the larger Karpeles Manuscript Museum, which is considered the world's largest private collection of documents and manuscripts in their original condition. The collection began in California in the 1980s and has since grown to include a number of libraries throughout the country. Housed in Greek Revival building dating back to 1856 that was once used as a Methodist church, the Charleston Karpeles Manuscript Museum is home to a wealth of historical documents and also serves as a community space for historical museum exhibitions, art galleries, educational programs, and community events. More »

King Street

No trip to Charleston would be complete without an homage to the popular King Street; so after hitting the beaches or playing a few games of golf, make sure to pay a visit to this exciting and diverse street. A busy boulevard in historic downtown Charleston, King Street offers visitors a variety of great choices for upscale dining, shopping, and nightlife. There are cafes, delis, seafood joints, sushi restaurants, and more to tantalize the taste buds, while antique stores, art galleries, jewelry stores, book sellers, lingerie and bath boutiques, clothing stores, and many other shops make for the perfect day of shopping. Visit one of the many bars or pubs in the neighborhood to cap the day off with a little after-dinner entertainment. More »

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

This remarkable plantation is located northwest of downtown Charleston out on Ashley River Road. Founded by the Drayton family in 1676, the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is considered to be one of the oldest tourist sites in the Lowcountry and has a great deal of history to share with the public. The majestic gardens have been open to public tours since the 1870s and are home to a variety of plants with peaceful pathways that meander through the different areas of the gardens. Guided tours of the historic house are available and showcase plantation life in the 19th century with a vast collection of period furniture, antiques, art, and more. Beyond the house tours, this lovely plantation also offer nature train tours and a petting zoo, which are great options if traveling with children in tow. More »

Marion Square

This fun park aims to increase community sociability by connecting several surrounding neighborhoods together in an area that has historically been a bastion of public activity. Today, this park boasts a farmers' market, fountain, garden, walking paths, performance space, and historical monuments. Activities in this busy area vary seasonally; in winter, the town Christmas tree is erected here, and in the summer, the square plays host to festivals and markets. Originally called the Citadel Green, the area was rechristened Marion Square, after Francis Marion, when the location of the Citadel was moved. More »

Middleton Place

Located northwest of downtown Charleston, Middleton Place is a spectacular plantation with magnificently manicured gardens. The plantation, which is a National Historic Landmark, dates back to the mid-1700s when the President of the first Continental Congress Henry Middleton began to create this 60-acre landscaped garden, which is considered the oldest in the country. For generations, the prominent Middleton family has called this plantation home, including Arthur Middleton who signed the Declaration of Independence, Henry Middleton who was once Governor of South Carolina, and Williams Middleton who signed the Ordinance of Secession. Head about 15 miles outside of Charleston to visit this lavish estate where you can tour the impressive 65 acres of gardens featuring ornamental ponds, garden room, exact symmetric features, terraces, and more. Tour the house museum and stableyards to get a glimpse of plantation life for this historically significant family and then. The estate also offers a great restaurant on the property that serves both lunch and dinner in addition to a great outdoor center offering educational exhibits on nature, kayaking, and walking tours. More »

Morris Island Lighthouse

The numerous lighthouses and other guiding structures that have stood on Morris Island have withstood a lot from both man and mother nature: hurricanes, earthquakes, and even the Civil War. However, after each lighthouse falls a stronger one is put up in its place. The lighthouse that stands on Morris Island today is well fortified and has been a charming addition to the Atlantic seaside since 1873. Although the lighthouse was deactivated and its duties were taken over by an automated tower on Sullivan's Island in 1956, plans to raze the historic structure failed; it is currently under the protection of Save the Light, Inc., a preservation group that works on restoring the famous lighthouse. More »

Nathaniel Russell House

This National Historic Landmark home was built in 1808 and was the grand townhouse of the wealthy Charleston merchant, Nathaniel Russell. The neoclassical dwelling features formal gardens, intricate interior decor elements, ornamental architectural features both inside and outside of the home, and a spectacular free-flying staircase. The unique and historic home is located in downtown Charleston and is open to the public as a museum where tours focus on period furniture, art work, and antiques. The Historic Charleston Foundation maintains this home, which is a true gem in Charleston's history. More »

Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

Definitely a site not-to-be-missed when you're in Charleston, the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon is considered one of the most historically important colonial buildings in the country. Built in 1771 to accommodate the burgeoning export-import trade, and as a place to conduct both private and public business, the building became the social, economic, and political hub of the city. It was here, on the front steps in March 1776, that South Carolina was first publicly declared an independent colony. Later, in 1788, it was here that the convention to ratify the U.S. Constitution met. The Provost Dungeon, located under the Palladian-styled Exchange Building, has seen its share of history, too. Built in 1781 with a brick barrel vaulted ceiling, the prison was manned by the British and used to confine colonists suspected of giving intelligence to the Americans during the Revolutionary War. More recently, archaeologists have discovered that part of the original seawall of Charles Towne can be seen from the dungeon. Both the Exchange and the Provost Dungeon are leased to the state of South Carolina and open to the public. More »

Old Slave Mart Museum

Constructed in 1859, this sole survivor of a larger complex of buildings was originally built to host slave auctions. It only served this purpose for a short time, however, before the end of the Civil War brought an end to the practice, and the building was renovated into a tenement dwelling in 1878. Sixty years later, Miriam B. Wilson bought and transformed the old building, transcending its ignoble origins by opening a museum of African American history, arts, and crafts. While the museum eventually closed as a private venture, the City of Charleston bought the property in the late '80s, and reopened it with a similar mission in mind, reminding and educating visitors of the wretched business of human trade that once took place within its walls. More »

Patriots Point Golf Links

This scenic golf course sits perched on the banks of the Charleston Harbor directly across from the historic city of Charleston. Designed by Willard Byrd, Patriots Point Golf Links offers four sets of tees, allowing a wide range of players to enjoy the beautiful course. The par-72 course is situated on a peninsula and meanders through marshy Charleston waters. Patriot Points has been ranked as the South Carolina Course of the Year and as having the best par-3 in the Lowcountry. More »

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Naval buffs won't want to miss this great maritime museum. Located in the Charleston Harbor, the Patriots Point Museum's was established in 1975 with the arrival of the USS Yorktown to the harbor. The museum grew to include many other Naval ships including the USS Laffey destroyer in addition to a submarine, a Coast Guard cutter, and a collection of historic war planes and aircraft from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. More »

Rainbow Row

These mid-18th century row houses on East Bay Street are a colorful addition to historic downtown Charleston. The houses originally served double duty as places of commerce and domesticity: the ground floor was a store, with the owner living on the top floors. Having been saved from destruction and restored by the Society for Preservation of Old Dwelling Houses in the 1920s and 1930s, visitors can't miss these multicolored structures and will see them replicated on many images and postcards throughout Charleston. More »

Ravenel Bridge

This $632 million feat of engineering was opened in 2005 after 10 years of planning. Notable as North America's longest cable-stayed span, the bridge sports 8 lanes of traffic, 15 ramps, and runs 3.5 miles from Johnnie Dodds Boulevard in Mt. Pleasant to Charleston's Crosstown Connector. The 12-foot-wide bicycle and pedestrian lane that runs along the ocean side makes it a popular scenic span for those looking for a more up-close-and-personal experience with the bridge. Folks who choose to walk the bridge will also appreciate (provided they're not afraid of heights!) the two diamond-shaped tower piers, which include viewing platforms that stretch 12 feet over the water, 198 feet in the air. From a distance, the Ravenel at night is also a sight to behold, although during loggerhead turtle nesting season, the lights are dimmed considerably so as not to confuse the moonlight-sensitive hatchlings. More »

Shops at Charleston Place

For luxury shopping, head to the first-floor of the regal Charleston Place Hotel. The Shops at Charleston Place offer a collection of fine shopping stores from clothing, jewelry, art, swimwear, and chocolate. Featuring marble floors, grand staircases, and posh decor, the Shops at Charleston Place are the place to go for fine shopping. More »

Smith-Killian Fine Art

This contemporary art gallery is best known for its art featuring realism and color. The Smith-Killian Fine Art gallery was founded by Betty Anglin Smith, a painter from the Lowcountry in addition to her triplet children. Jennifer Smith Rogers and Shannon Smith are both painters and Tripp Smith is a photographer, all of whom feature their work in the gallery in addition to a handful of other local artists who specialize in bronze sculpture and oil paintings. More »

South Carolina Aquarium

This fantastic aquarium is located in the heart of downtown Charleston near the French Quarter and a wealth of colorful exhibits and fascinating fish on display. Begin your visit in the Great Hall with its grand two-story windows and informative introductions to the South Carolina coastline. The aquarium covers the entirety of the state of South Carolina with exhibits on the ecosystems stretching from the mountains to the sea. The Mountain Forest Aviary features species including the Northern Cardinal, Brook Trout, and the River Otter in its exhibit that explains the environment found in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Piedmont Gallery showcases the species found in rivers, streams, and reservoirs in the state's Piedmont region, while the Coastal Plain Gallery explores the varied species found on the state's coastal plains including the Diamondback Rattlesnake, Venus Flytrap, and Spotted Softshell. Wander through the Saltmarsh Aviary and Coast Gallery before heading to the gorgeous Ocean Gallery with its impressive 385,000-gallon sea water tank that is home to hundreds of animals including mysterious jellyfish, fierce sharks, and colorful fish of the sea. The South Carolina Aquarium is a great place to learn all about the ocean and the state's many eco-systems and their inhabitants. More »

St. Michael's Church

A quintessential example of colonial architecture, this classic church was completed in 1762--ten years after the St. Michael's Anglican congregation was founded--making it the oldest church building in Charleston. The inside is modeled after 18th-century English church designs, and the church's bells were even imported from England. During the Civil War, the church's large, white tower made it an easy target for Union cannons and gunner ships, so it was painted over with black; this, unfortunately, did little to hide the beautiful tower, as the black was in stark contrast to the blue sky! Both Robert E. Lee and George Washington had pews in St. Michael's, which visitors can see restored to their 18th-century conditions. More »

St. Philip's Church

St. Philip's Episcopal Church has the distinction of being the oldest congregation in South Carolina. Its first building, completed in 1681, originally stood where St. Michael's Church is today. The stunning structure found at 146 Church Street was the congregation's third building. The church was designed by Joseph Hyde in 1838, with a steeple added by E.B. White ten years later. The church's graveyard is the final resting place for some notable figures: Vice President John C. Calhoun, South Carolina Governor Rawlins Lowndes, and author Dubose Heyward, among others. More »

White Point Gardens / Battery Park

Encircled by the harbor, and boxed in by South Battery, King Street, Murray Boulevard, and East Bay Street, this pleasant park offers refreshing ocean breezes and lots of lovely views. Children enjoy climbing on, and pretending to lift, the immense cannons and cannonballs strewn about, while adults enjoy strolling the oyster-shell-filled walks or looking at some of the homes of the battery. It's a nice spot to stop for a rest when you're feeling a bit brain-dead from exploring Charleston's rich history; toss a Frisbee or have a picnic on the grass. The park can get crowded on weekends when the weather is nice but is generally pretty quiet during the rest of the week. More »

Wild Dunes Resort & Golf Courses

Located in the scenic Isle of Palms, the Wild Dunes Resort is a luxurious resort with a waterfront locations, top-notch accommodations and amenities, and two championship golf courses. Rated as top golf courses in the state of South Carolina, both the Wild Dunes Links Course and the Wild Dunes Harbor Course are Tom Fazio designs and offer plenty of challenges for both beginners to seasoned golfers. The par-72 Links Course features 6,722 yards of rolling fairways, dunes, and ocean views. The Harbor Course is comprised of 6,446 yards with a par-70. Come for the golf and stay for the lovely resort accommodations and restaurants at this great resort. More »