What To Do in Charleston: Your Go-To Guide

A visit to Charleston is equal parts culinary tour, pub crawl, and historical adventure. A walk down its cobblestone streets can instantly transport you into another era, and provides a doorway to an exciting getaway. From sailing around the harbor on a trim little schooner to imbibing local liquor in a rooftop pub, there’s plenty of things to do in Charleston.

A historic trip

Charleston is steeped in history: founded in 1670, it has been a colonial port town, a pirate port, and blockaded battleground during the Civil War. With so much remarkable—if often heavy—history waiting just outside your hotel room, it begs you to put on your walking shoes and begin exploring.

Fort Sumter National Monument

Charleston Harbor

(843) 883-3123 It’s said that the Civil War began at Fort Sumter, when Confederate forces fired on the Union-held garrison located in the harbor. The fort appears in slightly different arrangement today—being severely damaged during two battles—but visitors can ride a ferry over and explore the ruins.

Charleston City Market

188 Meeting Street

Charleston, SC 29401

(843) 937-0920

The City Market has provided a uniquely Charleston shopping experience since 1804. Fronted by a gorgeous Greek Revival-style hall, the actual market extends four city blocks, and is home to dozens of local vendors selling everything from sweetgrass baskets to hats and biscuits. From March to December, you can also visit the Night Market on Friday and Saturday nights to stock up on artisanal soaps, candles, and art.

Old City Jail

21 Magazine Street

Charleston, SC 29401No, we aren’t suggesting you actually land yourself in jail during your Charleston visit. The Old Jail has been a fixture of Charleston since 1802, and among its notable occupants were murderers, robbers, and even pirates. You won’t be following in their unfortunate footsteps, but you can see where they ate and slept, and learn more of the city’s history. If you like your nights with a little fright, also embark on an evening ghost tour of the jail and see if any of the old inmates are still hanging around.

Schooner Pride

Aquarium Wharf

360 Concord Street

Charleston, SC 29401

(843) 722-1112Put on your captain’s coat and grab your favorite eyepatch—you’re going sailing! (If you don’t have a favorite eyepatch, a pair of sunglasses will do.) The crew of the schooner Pride carries small groups out into the harbor during afternoons and evenings. If you’ve ever fantasized about living a pirate’s life—or even scoring the perfect Instagram shot of dolphins leaping into the sunset—the Pride is the place to do it.

Food, glorious food

Hungry? Charleston’s got you covered there: it’s home to hundreds of restaurants and cafes serving up various delicious dishes. Whatever your taste buds are craving, you’re bound to find it here.

Hank’s Seafood Restaurant

10 Hayne Street

Charleston, SC 29401

(843) 723-FISH (3474)

If you’ve got a hankering for seafood, head to Hank’s. With almost two decades of award-winning cuisine under its belt, these guys know seafood. They’ve collected accolades from OpenTable, Conde Nast Traveler, and The Washington Post, among others. You can’t go wrong with the grilled swordfish or the broiled Maine lobster.

Husk Restaurant

76 Queen Street

Charleston, SC 29401

(843) 577-2500

“If it doesn’t come from the South,” Husk states on its website, “it’s not coming through the door.” This restaurant focuses exclusively on Southern fare, crafted from locally sourced seasonal. The menu can change frequently, so swing by the website to see the day’s menu and plan out a thoroughly delicious evening.

Bertha’s Kitchen

2332 Meeting Street

Charleston, SC 29405

(843) 554-6519

You can’t visit Charleston without at least trying some soul food. Bertha’s Kitchen is ready to help you fulfil your obligation to tasty grub with mouthwatering offerings like baked mac and cheese, okra soup, and fried chicken. The menu changes daily and lunchtimes can get pretty packed, so make sure you get here early!

Get your drink on

Your vacation doesn’t have to include any booze, but if you’re cutting loose, odds are you’re going to imbibe a bit. There’s an almost endless selection of pubs, bars, and breweries to choose from, but we picked out three of our favorites.

The Rooftop

19 Vendue Range

Charleston, SC 24901

(843) 577-7970

You know what’s better than a refreshing drink after a busy day? A refreshing drink while also taking in a stunning view of Charleston Harbor. The Rooftop perches over the Vendue Hotel, and offers additional commanding views of portions of the city. Hit the sweet spot with a Moscato Rose, or wash down a sandwich with a Pimm’s Cup or a cold beer.

Frothy Beard Brewing Company & Zombie Bob Pizza

1401 Sam Rittenberg Boulevard

Charleston, SC 29407

(843) 872-1075

What happens when three guys who love beer and zombies become friends? They make a zombie-themed pizza shop and brewery that has drinks with names like Bubbles the Destroyer of Worlds and Back from the Dead. We don’t think eating and drinking here will turn you into a zombie—or that you’ll necessary be able to fight them after imbibing—but you’re bound to have a great time. Stop by and ask, “What’s Frothing?”

Uncork Charleston

476 King Street

Charleston, SC 29403

(854) 222-3939

If you’re feeling the need to class it up a little after your zombie-hunting excursion, head for Uncork. This beautifully decorated wine bar will have you sipping merlot and syrah and saying things like, “My, there’s a subtle earthiness to this vintage.” For the ultimate step in gracious dining, pair your favorite wine with a charcuterie board. You know you deserve it. Living the good life means you don’t need to spend hours figuring out what to do in Charleston. We’ve provided these suggestions to help you get to know “Chucktown” a little better, and to provide a springboard for even more adventures in this vibrant city.