Things to Do in Charleston SC

A powerful museum on Gadsden’s Wharf that traces the African American journey with immersive galleries and a genealogy center. Featured in Time’s World’s Greatest Places and widely covered by national outlets, it’s become essential to understanding Charleston.

Board a small bus for stories of language, music, and daily life from a native Gullah perspective, with sites tied to generations of Black Charlestonians. Frequently recommended by national travel press and praised by locals for authenticity.

Naturalists ferry you into Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge for windswept beaches, birdlife, and the haunting beauty of Boneyard Beach. A beloved Lowcountry outing often cited by editors as a must for nature lovers.

Since 1946 this no-frills seafood house has served steamed local oysters and platters of fried shrimp over tidal marsh views; it’s a James Beard America’s Classics winner and a perennial Southern Living favorite.

Tour and taste award-winning spirits made from heirloom grains, including the celebrated Jimmy Red bourbon revived with local farmers. Frequently profiled by Food & Wine and other national outlets for its terroir-driven approach.

A vintage jazz-and-funk nightclub reborn in a storied Eastside space, with house bands, a classic dance floor, and a late-night scene praised by local critics and Condé Nast Traveler.

Independent venue and community hub with nightly shows, a lively deck stage, and a beloved Sunday market. Regularly recognized by local media as one of the city’s top places to hear live music.

A Beaux-Arts jewel with centuries of Southern art, from miniature portraits to contemporary works and Gullah artistry. Frequently highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler and other editors as a top cultural stop.

A forward-looking, free-to-visit contemporary space at the College of Charleston, known for smart exhibitions and artist talks spotlighted by national arts press and local critics.

Naturalist-led boat trips through Folly’s marshes to beachcomb near the 1876 Morris Island Light, with frequent dolphin sightings and ecology insight. A favorite with conservation-minded travelers.

An independent bookstore that anchors downtown’s literary life with author talks, signings, and history-focused walking tours. Praised by literary publications and treasured by locals for championing Lowcountry voices.

Sail Charleston Harbor on an 84‑foot, three‑masted schooner for sea breezes, skyline views, and occasional dolphins. A classic local experience often recommended by travel editors for sunset.

A small, chef-led workshop in a historic carriage house where you watch techniques, taste, and sip as dishes come together. Often singled out by travel magazines as one of the city’s most engaging culinary experiences.