Five Extra Fun Things to Do While Visiting Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, the jewel in the crown of the South Carolina Lowcountry of South, was completely new to me when my family and I relocated from Southern California in 1984. Getting used to the slower pace, the heat and humidity of the warmer months, and the flavor and selection of foods were both a joy and a trial. Since our move 24 years ago, we have come to view the Charleston area as home and have had the pleasure of seeking out both the popular and the exceptional hidden places. Here are a few ideas if you're going to be spending a weekend or so in our beautiful community by the sea and want to include something a little different on your itinerary. For the majority of these destinations, access to a vehicle is required.

Also, no matter what time of the year you visit, be prepared to encounter mosquitoes and biting gnats (no see-ums) when outdoors. We do have several months that are virtually bug free but just to be sure, keep bug repellent and sun block with your daily supplies.

Cypress Gardens, Moncks Corner, South Carolina. Cypress Gardens of South Carolina is not to be confused with the amusement park in Florida. Our beautiful and tranquil gardens are located in a freshwater swamp about 30 miles west of Charleston off Interstate 26. The park offers visitors an insider's look at the diverse and abundant life of the swampland through walking trails, flat-bottom boat tours, a butterfly house, aquarium, reptile house, and welcome center. Cypress Gardens is open daily except major holidays; from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please check their website for rates and driving directions.

The Center for Birds of Prey, Awendaw, South Carolina. The Center for Birds of Prey was recently opened to the public June 5, 2008. The 150-acre center acts as both an educational opportunity for visitors of all ages and also provides much needed medical and rehabilitation facilities for wounded and ill birds. There are over 30 types of birds of prey in residence. In addition to a guided walking tour of the facility, flying demonstrations are conducted throughout the day. *No pets are allowed at the facility*. The Center for Birds of Prey, located approximately 18 miles from downtown Charleston on Hwy 17N, is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please check the center's website for rates.

Mepkin Abbey, Moncks Corner, South Carolina. This is an active Trappist monastery and is open to the public except on Mondays. The grounds include several gardens and green vistas designed for Clare Booth Luce during the period when the property was owned by publishing magnet, Henry R. Luce, as well as a gift shop. Throughout the year, the abbey hosts festivals, gatherings, and art exhibits. No matter when you choose to visit, the abbey's atmosphere is one of harmony, meditation, and peace. Located about 1-hour northwest of Charleston, it is well worth the trip.

Bee City, Cottageville, South Carolina. The ultimate in old-fashioned good fun, Bee City Honey Bee Farm and Petting Zoo has to be experienced to be believed. The privately owned operation is a testament to caring hard work and showmanship, just like the bees they keep. The petting zoo consists of domestic animals such as donkeys, goats, and rabbits, and exotic animals including llamas, Patagonian hares, and lemurs. Each environment is fastidiously clean and well cared for. This is an equal treat for those with and without children. Bee City also has a gift shop that offers honey and bees wax products, an ice cream counter and full-service café. Located approximately 1-hour west of Charleston, Bee City Honey Bee Farm and Petting Zoo is open Tuesday through Saturday. Please check their website for rates and driving directions.

Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum, Mount Pleasant, SC. As you leave downtown Charleston and cross over the spectacular Ravenel Bridge, commonly referred to as the Cooper River bridge, towards the beach communities of Sullivan's Island and the Isle of Palms, Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum is visible to your right. The Fighting Lady of WWII, the U.S.S. Yorktown, is anchored front and center at the museum. This Essex class carrier is a unique glimpse into the WWII naval experience and includes planes of various types on the hanger and flight decks. The USS Yorktown and is open to groups and day visitors every day except Christmas.

The majority of the staff is volunteers, mainly veterans from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, so the availability of guided tours is irregular. There is however, plenty of signage, displays, and video exhibits to assist visitors with navigating the ship and understanding its history making self-guided tours completely doable. The newly opened (2007) Congressional Medal of Honor Museum is on board the Yorktown and is an exceptionally well executed and informative exhibit. Additional offerings include a Vietnam Support Base, a Cold War Memorial and the museum gift shop. An automated lift is available to assist those with physical limitation access the hanger deck. Check at the ticket office, which opens at 9:00 a.m. for more information. Please check the museum's website for rates and special events.