Map of Charleston, United States

🌴 What to do in Charleston 🌞

Charleston offers a wealth of activities to suit every traveler's taste, from historic tours to scenic waterfront strolls. Immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of this Southern gem with these must-try experiences.

• Best Budget Activity in Charleston:

  The Battery & White Point Garden: Take a leisurely walk along the iconic waterfront promenade, lined with historic homes and beautiful gardens.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Charleston:

  Charleston Culinary Tours: Indulge in a guided food tour to sample the city's culinary delights and learn about its rich gastronomic history.

• Best Luxury Activity in Charleston:

  Carriage Tour of Historic District: Explore the city in style aboard a horse-drawn carriage, marveling at the historic architecture and cobblestone streets.

🍽️ Where to eat in Charleston 🍴

Charleston is a culinary paradise known for its unique Lowcountry cuisine and vibrant food scene. Don't miss out on trying the famous Shrimp and Grits or indulging in fresh seafood platters.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Charleston:

  Rodney Scott's BBQ•$:

  Cuisine specialty: Authentic Southern BBQ

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Charleston:

  Peninsula Grill•$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine Dining with a Southern Twist

• Best Budget Bar in Charleston:

  Closed for Business•$:

  Craft Beer Selection

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Charleston:

  The Gin Joint•$$:

  Handcrafted Cocktails

• Best Luxury Bar in Charleston:

  The Cocktail Club•$$$:

  Rooftop Views and Specialty Cocktails

🏰 What to see in Charleston 🌺

Charleston is a treasure trove of historic landmarks and architectural marvels, each with a story to tell and beauty to behold. Explore the city's rich heritage by visiting these iconic must-see sights.

• Rainbow Row

  Admire the row of colorful historic houses along East Bay Street, a quintessential Charleston landmark and popular photo spot.

• The Battery & White Point Garden

  Stroll along this picturesque promenade showcasing antebellum mansions, Civil War-era cannons, and stunning views of Charleston Harbor.

• The Charleston City Market

  Browse through the bustling market stalls selling handmade crafts, local foods, and unique souvenirs, providing a glimpse into Charleston's vibrant culture.

• Middleton Place

  Discover the oldest landscaped gardens in America at Middleton Place, featuring lush foliage, historic plantation buildings, and a glimpse into Southern plantation life.

• Fort Sumter National Monument

  Step back in time at Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, and immerse yourself in the history of this pivotal moment in American history.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Charleston 🎁

Charleston offers a unique shopping experience, blending Southern charm with a mix of local boutiques, designer stores, and artisanal markets. From quaint shops to upscale boutiques, explore the best shopping places the city has to offer.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Charleston:

  King Street Shopping District: Wander along King Street, the city's premier shopping destination, lined with trendy boutiques, antique shops, and eclectic finds to suit every budget.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Charleston:

  Historic Charleston City Market: Browse through the historic market stalls at the heart of downtown Charleston, offering a variety of local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs perfect for mid-range shopping.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Charleston:

  Charleston Place: Experience luxury shopping at Charleston Place, featuring upscale designer stores, high-end boutiques, and exclusive brands in a sophisticated retail environment.

🚌 Getting Around Charleston

• Public Transport

  Charleston offers a reliable public transportation system primarily serviced by buses. The main operator is CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority), which provides an extensive network of bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. Fares start at $2 per ride and schedules vary by route, with most buses operating from early morning to late evening. Visitors can purchase day passes for unlimited rides, making it an affordable and convenient way to explore Charleston.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  - Charleston International Airport: Located approximately 12 miles northwest of downtown Charleston, the airport serves as a major transportation hub for those flying in and out of the city. - Amtrak Station: Situated in North Charleston, the Amtrak station provides train services connecting Charleston to other major cities along the East Coast. - Charleston Greyhound Station: For those traveling by bus, the Greyhound station is located centrally in downtown Charleston, offering connections to various destinations nationwide.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Visitors can easily rent cars from major providers such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget at Charleston International Airport or in downtown Charleston. Prices typically start at $40 per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: Exploring Charleston on two wheels is a popular option, and several rental companies like Affordabike and Holy Spokes offer bike rentals starting at $15 per day. Cycling is a great way to navigate the city's historic streets and scenic pathways.