Tourist Attractions – Places to Visit in Charleston South Carolina
The city of Charleston, South Carolina has a lot to offer visitors. From beautiful beaches to unique food to charming historical sites, there is something for everyone in this city. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a vacation, taking a trip to this southern gem is easy.
You can start with Magnolia planting and gardens. This magnificent plantation is a must visit for history buffs. It is also one of the oldest plantations in the country. There are beautiful gardens, an incredibly scenic tree-lined stream, and amazing flower displays.
Another great attraction in the city is the Charleston Museum. Founded in 1773, the museum contains a variety of exhibits. They range from ancient Egyptian antiquities to a collection of materials from South Carolina.
Waterfront park #1
If you are planning a visit to Charleston, South Carolina, don’t miss the beautiful Waterfront Park. It offers spectacular views of the Cooper River and is surrounded by historic structures and beautiful trees.
The park is also an important part of the city’s revitalization plan. In 2007, the American Society of Landscape Architects presented Waterfront Park with a Landmark Award. This award comes with the distinction of being one of the most outstanding landscape architecture projects in the country.
The park was designed by Stuart O. Dawson of Sasaki Associates. They have been working with the City of Charleston for over two decades.
The waterfront is a popular spot for locals and tourists. Many people have found the park to be a great place to walk, run, or just relax. It is open daily and features a variety of fountains, benches and gardens.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens #2
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens in Charleston, South Carolina is one of the oldest tourist attractions in the Lowcountry. It is an impressive collection of attractions. Apart from being a romantic destination, the plantation is also a wonderful place to visit for nature lovers.
The grounds include a petting zoo and a children’s educational garden. They are also home to a large number of exotic birds. Some of the birds you might see here are Malayan jungle fowl, guinea fowls and peacocks.
While you are here you can enjoy a guided tour of the house and grounds. You can also enjoy a Nature Tram ride. These are 45-minute walks that take you to the marshes and lakes of the plantation. Your guide will give you insight into wildlife that you might not otherwise see.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll be delighted to learn that the first public garden in the United States was established here. Known as “Magnolia Gardens”, the property was built in 1676 by the Drayton family.
Fort Sumter National Monument #3
Fort Sumter National Monument is one of the most important historic sites in the South. It is located on an island in Charleston Harbor. The fort was an important port during the Civil War era. On April 12, 1861, the Confederacy fired on the American garrison at Fort Sumter.
To get to the fort, you can take a ferry from Patriots Point or Liberty Square in downtown Charleston. These trips take approximately 30 minutes. You can purchase tickets for the boat on the Fort Sumter National Monument website.
The Fort Sumter Ferry Tour is a unique way to experience the port. The ferry offers a ranger-guided tour and self-guided exploration of the fort. Visitors can see a museum with artifacts and hear stories from America’s deadliest war.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Cable-stayed bridge #4
Bridge is the longest cable-stayed bridge in North America and the third longest in the Western Hemisphere. It is also the largest public works project in South Carolina history. This 4 km bridge crosses the Cooper River and connects downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant.
The bridge was named after the late Arthur Ravenel Jr., a politician who became a state senator and ran for the Senate. He worked with federal officials and local authorities to ensure the construction of the bridge.
The Arthur Ravenel Bridge is a cable-stayed suspension bridge that crosses the Cooper River. It is located in Charleston, South Carolina. The main span of the bridge is 1,546 feet long and the two diamond-shaped towers are 575 feet tall.
Drayton Hall #5
Drayton Hall is the oldest plantation house in the United States. This historic home is located on the Ashley River, 20 miles northwest of downtown Charleston. Visitors to the house can learn about the life of the Drayton family and the evolution of early American society.
They can also see a variety of historical artifacts and colonial items. The museum shop offers branded merchandise inspired by Drayton Hall. Drayton Hall is the only intact plantation house in the Charleston area. It has survived hurricanes, earthquakes and civil war.
Drayton Hall is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The organization manages the site and interprets the history of the house. Additionally, Drayton Hall offers a wide range of educational programs.
Museum of the former slave market #6
The Old Slave Mart Museum is a historical museum located in Charleston, South Carolina. Founded in 1937, this museum was founded by a white woman who was interested in studying slavery. It was then sold to the city of Charleston, which in turn sold it to two sisters.
The Old Slave Mart Museum is dedicated to documenting the history of Charleston’s slave trade and the lives of the slaves themselves. This historic site is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Visitors can see the building’s pre-war exterior, including a large iron gate, high arch, and octagonal pillars. Inside, visitors will find a building, a kitchen, a prison, and an auction block. There is an area behind the building that once housed a barracoon.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist #7
St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Charleston, South Carolina is one of the most impressive churches in the city. It is also the church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston. Designed in the neo-Gothic style, the church is known for its intricate detailing and imposing bell tower.
Located at the southern end of the city center, the cathedral is an emblematic monument of the city. Built in 1907, the Gothic Revival style church is constructed of Portland cut stone and clad in Connecticut brownstone.
Several renovations have been undertaken over the years. Major changes include an altar rail, a new pulpit, the Stations of the Cross and 50 stained glass windows.
Today the cathedral is a busy place of worship and visitors can attend services at different times of the day. There are also special events for young people, such as a B16 group for middle school students.
FAQs: Charleston, South Carolina
Why is Charleston, South Carolina best known?
If you’re looking for a great weekend getaway, look no further than Charleston, South Carolina. Its history is rich and its architecture impressive. This southern city is known for its aristocratic homes and plantation society. There’s something for everyone here, from art galleries to fine dining.
When is the best time of year to visit Charleston SC?
Despite its subtropical climate, Charleston, South Carolina can be enjoyed year-round. The city is home to many historical sites, including the City Market, founded in 1790. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, jewelry, and handicrafts.