Things to do in Charleston
Discover amazing Charleston activities and premium in-home experiences.
Steeped in Southern charm and shaded by centuries-old oaks draped with Spanish moss, Charleston is a city where time seems to slow amid pastel-hued homes and cobblestone streets. Here, the warm coastal breeze carries whispers of history and hospitality, inviting you to linger beneath blooming jasmine or savor golden hours along the waterfront. In Charleston, every corner tells a story—woven through tradition, romance, and an undeniable sense of place.
Popular Activities in Charleston
Historic Downtown Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s storied streets and architecture with a knowledgeable local guide
Charleston's Alleys and Hidden Passages Walking Tour
Discover Charleston's charming hidden alleys and historic passages on an intimate 2-hour guided walk.
Savor the Flavors Tour of Downtown Charleston
Taste iconic Lowcountry dishes on a guided walking food tour.
Charleston Ghost and Graveyard Tour
Explore Charleston's oldest graveyard after dark on an exclusive guided walk
South of Broad Houses and Gardens Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s oldest quarter with inside access to two historic museum homes and gardens.
Charleston Ghost and Graveyard and Harbor Cruise Combo
Experience Charleston’s history by boat and after-dark graveyard access on two top-rated tours.
Toast of the Town Seasonal Cocktail Tour
Sip curated cocktails at boutique inns while uncovering Charleston’s spirited history.
USS Yorktown Captain’s Tour with Exclusive Access
Explore restricted areas of the famed aircraft carrier alongside an expert guide.
USS Yorktown Nighttime Ghost Tour
Explore eerie legends and restricted areas of the historic aircraft carrier after dark.
Charleston Haunted Jail Tour
Explore Charleston’s Old City Jail on a spine-tingling 45-minute guided ghost tour
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Tour
Discover centuries of history, lush gardens, and wildlife on a curated 4.5-hour visit.
Charleston Marine Biologist-Guided Nature Boat Tour
Observe dolphins, birds, and saltmarsh wildlife on a private boat tour led by a marine biologist.
Charleston Sunset Boat Cruise
Savor golden hour views from a private boat as dolphins and seabirds glide by
Private Island Adventure Boat Cruise Around Charleston
Explore Charleston's barrier islands, spot dolphins, and relax on a private boat cruise
Sullivan's Island Lighthouse Private Boat Tour
Cruise Charleston waterways to view Sullivan's Island Lighthouse on a private charter
Moonlight Sail in Charleston Harbor
Experience Charleston's historic skyline under moonlit sails aboard a 50-ft luxury yacht
Shem Creek 2-Hour Kayak Tour
Paddle past shrimp boats and wildlife to a bird sanctuary on this guided Charleston kayak adventure.
Shem Creek Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals
Explore scenic Shem Creek at your own pace with flexible kayak and paddleboard rentals
Charleston Harbor Dolphin Cruise
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins and iconic Charleston landmarks on a relaxed 1.5-hour pontoon cruise.
Semi-Private Captain Cocktail Party Boat Cruise
Join other small groups for a two-hour Charleston Harbor party with music, games, and BYOB fun.
Morning Harbor Cruise
Enjoy a 1.5-hour shared cruise with shaded seating and onboard restroom while taking in harbor views
Charleston Sunset Cruise
Relax on a spacious pontoon and enjoy landmark views as the sun sets over Charleston Harbor
Charleston Afternoon Harbor Cruise
Relax on a 1.5-hour pontoon cruise with dolphin-spotting and iconic Charleston Harbor views
90-Minute Surf Lesson on Isle of Palms
Catch your first waves in a 90-minute lesson with gear provided and safety-focused instructors.
Morning Dolphin Boat Tour on the Sea & the Rose
Search for wild dolphins and hunt for shells at Morris Island on a relaxed two-hour boat excursion
Drayton Hall and Charleston Strolls Combo Tour
Experience Charleston’s famed plantation and a guided downtown history walk with one convenient combo ticket.
2-Hour Wambaw Creek Wilderness Area Blackwater Tour
Paddle serene blackwater creeks and spot wildlife in a protected wilderness setting.
Explore the Charm of Charleston
Charleston is a city where history and hospitality blend seamlessly under the warm Southern sun. Known for its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, this coastal gem offers visitors an experience that feels both timeless and fresh. As you stroll through the historic district, you'll be greeted by pastel-colored homes framed with wrought-iron gates and lush gardens—a feast for the eyes in every season.
A visit to Charleston wouldn't be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Start your day with a leisurely brunch at one of King Street's trendy cafes before exploring local boutiques or art galleries nearby. In springtime, take advantage of blooming azaleas during a walk along The Battery promenade overlooking Charleston Harbor; it's perfect for capturing those postcard-worthy views.
For nature enthusiasts, Folly Beach offers sandy shores just minutes from downtown—ideal for surfing or simply soaking up some rays while listening to seagulls call overhead. If you're visiting in fall when temperatures are cooler yet still invitingly mild consider kayaking through Shem Creek’s tranquil waters as dolphins playfully surface beside you—it’s moments like these that make Charleston truly unforgettable compared to other destinations on South Carolina's coast.