See our "From Your Guide" page for their additional expert recommendations!
Stand Up Paddle Board & Kayak Tours/Rentals
Charleston Water Taxi: Very affordable ferry service, dolphin watch, and sightseeing cruises departing hourly from four locations: Waterfront Park, Maritime Center, Patriots Point (USS Yorktown) and Charleston Harbor Resort.
Plantations and Gardens
Cypress Gardens: The Notebook's lake scene was filmed here!
Magnolia Plantation: Famous gardens with thousands of beautiful flowers and plants.
Middleton Place: There's an abundance of things to do here, including exploring the gardens, seeing animals at the barnyard, and dining at the fabulous restaurant.
Boone Hall Plantation: Perfect for kids. Check out their event schedule!
McLeod Plantation Historic Site: A carefully preserved Gullah/Geechee heritage site with rich historical and cultural significance.
Charleston Tea Garden: Tea plantation with tours of the gardens and factory, trolley rides, and a gift shop.
Drayton Hall: Oldest original plantation house.
Museums
The International African American Museum sits on the historic site of Gadsden’s Wharf and offers powerful exhibits exploring African American history, culture, and resilience through immersive galleries, art, and genealogy resources.
The Powder Magazine: Completed in 1713, it is the oldest surviving public building in the former Province of Carolina.
Old Slave Mart Museum: Tells the story of Charleston's role in the domestic inter-state slave trade from 1856 to 1863.
The Gibbes Museum of Art: Charleston's most popular art museum.
Aiken Rhett House: Historic home of an influential 1800s family which includes a back lot where enslaved people lived.
Nathaniel Russel House: Built in 1808 by wealthy merchant and slave trader Nathaniel Russell, it is recognized as one of America's most important neoclassical houses.
Heading to Sullivan's Island? Stop by The Longboard for some refreshing cocktails and ceviche, or head to Poe's Tavern for burgers and decor dedicated to the poet. The Co-Op is a great local spot for sandwiches and their famous frose. The Obstinate Daughter and BeardCats are also favorites.
With its surfing and laidback beachy vibe, Folly Beach is a perfect spot to enjoy a margarita and tacos overlooking the beach at Taco Boy, grab some to-go sandwiches and snacks at the local favorite Bert's Market, open 24-hours, or stop by Chico Feo for live music, tropical drinks, and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere. For those with a worldly palate, Jack of Cups Saloon is a celebrated local spot with a patio.
Best of Charleston Art Galleries
Lots of fun, upbeat spots for drinks and scenic patios to enjoy Southern culinary staples right alongside the water! Be sure to stroll the Shem Creek boardwalk. Our favorites are Tavern & Table for dinner and Red's Ice House for laidback rooftop drinks and the view.