Things to Do when Your Visiting Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is one of the most charming places in the United States. The city of Charleston dates back to the year 1670. Settlers established what was know then as Charles Town Landing. Charleston is a great place to visit. It has a nice variety of things to see and do. Here are a few things to do there if you're ever in the neighborhood.

Sight See

One of the most affordable things to do is to walk around the downtown area. One of the great things about downtown Charleston is that everything is in walking distance. You can see historical landmarks like very old churches and government buildings. Architecture there is phenomenal! One area that they call "Little London" is a must see!

Tours

Charleston had many types of tours from carriage tours to ghost tours. Carriage tours are very informative the guide will tell you all about the history behind Charleston. While your guide gives you historical facts they also introduce you to the Clydesdale horses that are pulling the carriage. This is a great idea for someone who may not be able to walk around and see all the sights.

The ghost tours require a lot of walking, but seem to make up for that in the fun stories you are told. They have all kinds of ghost tours in Charleston. Claiming it is one of the most haunted places in the United States. They can take you on a walking ghost tour through graveyards and some hotels allowing you to take photos along the way.

Shopping

The streets of downtown are full of all kinds of exciting stores. They have a wide selection between surf shops and apparel to designer label stores. Located on Kings Street is one location in which they sell designer handbags and clothing only. So if you have some cash this is a very classy location to check out. If you don't have a lot of cash to spend then go down and visit the old city market. This is located between Meeting Street and East Bay Street. Locals set up at 10:00 am and stay out until dark. They have a wide range of items for sale.

Parks

The Battery in Charleston is one of the most stunning parks downtown. Their Majestic Oak trees are old and beautiful. Monuments and history facts are scattered throughout the park. The setting of the park is like a painting. Beautiful plants, flowers, and trees fill the area. Plus a great view of the bay where you can sit and watch the ships. Charleston has many more parks that are beautiful and serene.

Fort Sumter

The Civil War provided the United States with one of the most historical monuments. Fort Sumter is a place you can really get a feel of history. If you like boats the ride out to the island is a bonus. Fort Sumter has great historical facts throughout. They provide pictures of what it looked like before the fort was attacked. Fort Sumter is a powerful memorial to all that fought to hold it.

South Carolina Aquarium on Charleston Harbor

The aquarium is one of the most visited attractions. It has thousands of aquatic animals from sharks to otters. It also has grand views of Charleston Harbor. The aquarium is always changing or adding something. They provide information about conservation, wildlife, and endangered species. They give special tours for groups of children and sometimes they have special hands on events.

Restaurants

If you get hungry after doing all that walking there's a wide variety of places to visit. Maybe you want a snack instead and there are a few ice cream shops. Some popular places in Charleston to eat are Magnolias or Charleston's Grill. Magnolias serves up southern dishes. While Charleston's grill serves anything from American Continental to Southern Style. There are may seafood restaurants as well.

Beach

Another fine quality in Charleston is the beach. One beach near Charleston is located on Folly Island. The Folly Beach County Park has 2,500 feet of oceanic frontage. During season lifeguards are on duty. The amenities there include outdoor showers, boardwalks, snack bar, picnic area, and restrooms. Seasonal amenities include bicycles, boogie boards, chair rentals, and umbrellas. The beach there is very well maintained and is a great place to take the family for the day.