Are you planning a trip to Charleston, SC? The Holy City has been ranked one of the top travel destinations in the United States by several publications, so it’s no surprise that there are numerous things to do in the area! With so many options, how do you know which activities are the best? We like to say that there are no bad things to do in Charleston, but we certainly have some favorites! Read on to discover 10 activities that you should consider adding to your Charleston Coast bucket list!
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Top 10 Activities to Add to Your Charleston Coast Bucket List
Historic Charleston City Market
Discover one-of-kind treasures at the Historic Charleston City Market! This open-air market in the heart of downtown Charleston is one of the oldest in the country, which makes the structure itself a landmark. However, it’s what’s inside that really counts! The market is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m., and it features rotating vendors who sell everything from locally famous sweetgrass baskets to handmade jewelry! It’s a great way to take a piece of the Holy City home with you.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
Walking the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is one of the best things to do in Charleston for free! This cable-stayed bridge is 2.5 miles long and connects downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant. You can park near Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant and access the bridge’s sidewalk via a side street. The bridge boasts a steady incline, so it’s good exercise with great views of the Cooper River!
Charleston Tea Plantation
The Charleston Tea Plantation, also known as the Charleston Tea Garden, boasts 127 acres of tea plants. It’s also the only tea garden in the country where visitors can tour the fields. The most popular way to explore the tea garden is with a Trolly Tour. It’s the only cost of visiting the plantation and takes you on a 30-45-minute tour of the property. During the tour, you’ll learn more about the plantation’s history, growing process, and more!
Dock Street Theatre
Are you looking for live entertainment in the Holy City? Look no further than Dock Street Theatre! This historic landmark was the first building to be constructed for the purpose of hosting the performing arts. Since 1736, America’s first theatre has hosted numerous theatrical performances. Be sure to view the shows to see what performances are happening during your visit!
Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is one of the most iconic sites in Charleston! This 8-acre park beside the Cooper River is a great place for couples, families, and even pets to play outside in downtown Charleston. Relax in one of the wooden porch swings with views of the water or take a photo in front of the famous Pineapple Fountain. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar is located next door, so be sure to stop in to try some Lowcountry oysters on the half shell with house-made cocktail sauce!
Fort Sumter
Fort Sumter, an island in the Charleston Harbor, is a must for your first time visiting Charleston, SC! This historic landmark was the site of the first cries of the Civil War. Visitors are welcome to travel to Fort Sumter via a tour boat.
Folly Beach
A trip to the Charleston Coast wouldn’t be complete with a day at the beach! We recommend Folly Beach, as it’s one of the best beaches in South Carolina for families. This beach boasts 6 miles of shoreline and is a great place for surfing, tanning, and all the beach activities in-between! There are also several family-friendly restaurants and bars right off the shore, so it’s easy to spend the entire day there!
Angel Oak
Nature lovers need to see the Angel Oak Tree! Located on Johns Island, this impressive southern live oak tree is several hundred years old and has grown 66.5 feet tall and 28 feet in circumference. You really can’t get a feel for how large it is until you see it in person, so we recommend it to all our guests! While you’re on Johns Island, grab a quick bite to eat at Tattooed Moose, which was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!
Vendue Rooftop Bar
Get a panoramic view of downtown Charleston at Vendue Rooftop Bar. Rated the No. 1 rooftop bar in the city, this bar is known for its craft cocktails and savory shareables. From spiked cold brews to spicy margaritas, there’s a cocktail creation for your taste buds!
Spot Bill Murray
Tell any native Charlestonian it’s your first time in the city, and they’ll likely reply, “Keep an eye out for Bill Murray!” This famous actor has made his home in Charleston and can be seen blundering around the city.
Book a Rental with Charleston Coast Vacations
Add a stay in one of our rentals to your Charleston Coast bucket list! Charleston Coast Vacations offers more than 100 properties along the Atlantic Coast. Search homes on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan’s Island for your trip to the Holy City! Our rentals are also just a short drive away from most of the activities listed above, so it’s easy to check every item off your bucket list!
Browse a full inventory of our rentals to plan your trip to the Charleston Coast!
