Best Attractions in Charleston SC (2025)
International African American Museum
Museum · Charleston
A vital new landmark on Gadsden’s Wharf with powerful galleries and a genealogy center. Featured in The New York Times and named to TIME’s World’s Greatest Places; the memorial garden is free and open to all.
Gibbes Museum of Art
Art museum · Charleston
Charleston’s art heart, bridging the Charleston Renaissance to contemporary voices, plus a serene garden and midweek evening hours. Recommended by national travel editors and beloved by local critics for its evolving, place‑based collection.
Frankly Charleston Black History Tours
Tour operator · Charleston
Locally owned, candid tours centering the “other Charleston,” led by guides rooted in the community. Highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler and praised in recent traveler reviews; during extreme heat they smartly shift to ride‑only formats.
Bulls Island Ferry
Sightseeing tour agency · Charleston County
Naturalist‑led boats carry you into Cape Romain’s wild beaches and rookeries; roam eerie Boneyard Beach before ferrying back. Endorsed by Condé Nast Traveler for its untouched beauty; check seasonal departures before you go.
High Wire Distilling
Distillery · Charleston
A pioneering heirloom‑grain distillery reviving Jimmy Red corn bourbon with Clemson partners. Celebrated by Food & Wine for its terroir‑driven spirits; tour the working facility and sip thoughtfully built cocktails.
Firefly Distillery
Distillery · Dorchester
Park Circle’s sprawling distillery pours tastings and cocktails and hosts frequent outdoor music. Home to Sweet Tea Vodka and a community events calendar; hours and tasting details verified by the distillery.
The Commodore
Live music bar · Charleston
A throwback jazz and funk club reborn in a vintage room with velvet drapes, disco lights, and house bands most nights. Recommended by Condé Nast Traveler and adored by locals for its dance floor and live energy.
Redux Contemporary Art Center
Art center · Charleston
An artist‑run hub with free exhibitions, studio corridors, and classes that amplify emerging Southern voices. Frequently noted by local arts writers; expect adventurous programming and opening‑night buzz.
Charleston Music Hall
Performing arts theater · Charleston
An 1850 rail station turned concert hall where national tours meet hometown ensembles. Its robust calendar underscores why critics consider it a can’t‑miss room; check listings and book ahead.
C.S.S. H.L. Hunley Submarine
Museum · Dorchester
Weekend‑only tours reveal the world’s first successful combat submarine inside an active conservation lab. Recognized by national travel editors; timed tickets help manage crowds.
Charleston Farmers Market
Farmers' market · Charleston
Saturday mornings brim with Lowcountry growers, bakers, and makers, produced by the City’s Office of Cultural Affairs. Lauded by Southern Living and state agriculture officials; runs April through November with holiday markets.
