Greater Charleston Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Greater Charleston? Read our comprehensive travel guide for a detailed itinerary, local tips, and recommendations on where to stay and what to do.


Introduction to Greater Charleston

Charleston, nestled on the South Carolina coast, is a charming southern city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

The Greater Charleston area expands beyond the city limits to include other charming towns, beaches, and barrier islands.

This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the different places to visit, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and food scene to help you plan your perfect Charleston getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Greater Charleston

  • Charleston City Market
  • The Battery
  • Rainbow Row
  • Middleton Place
  • Fort Sumter National Monument
  • Folly Beach
  • Kiawah Island
  • Isle of Palms
  • Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
  • Drayton Hall

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Charleston and the surrounding area are steeped in history and culture, and there are plenty of museums and historical sites to visit.

  • The Charleston Museum: The first museum in America. Exhibits cover the city’s history from its founding in 1670 to the present day.
  • The Nathaniel Russell House: A Federal-style mansion that gives a glimpse into the lives of Charleston’s elite during the 19th century.
  • Fort Sumter National Monument: The site of the first shots fired in the American Civil War.
  • Middleton Place: A historic plantation with stunning gardens and preserved 18th-century buildings.
  • Drayton Hall: A preserved 18th-century plantation home showcasing one of the nation’s oldest surviving examples of Georgian-Palladian architecture.

Natural Attractions of Greater Charleston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Charleston’s natural beauty is truly breathtaking, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy it.

  • Folly Beach: Known for its wide beaches and relaxed vibe, Folly Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
  • Kiawah Island: This 10-mile barrier island boasts some of the best golf courses in the world, as well as stunning beaches, marshes, and maritime forests.
  • Isle of Palms: Known for its beautiful beach houses and wide, sandy beaches, Isle of Palms is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.
  • Francis Marion National Forest: This forest is a great spot for hiking, camping, and biking. It offers trails of varying difficulty levels, wetlands, and hidden waterfalls.
  • Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: A popular spot for nature-lovers, this plantation showcases stunning gardens with dozens of species of flora and fauna to explore.
  • Angel Oak Tree: This enormous, ancient tree is over 400 years old and is one of the most photographed sites in Charleston, located on Johns Island.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Greater Charleston

There are several trails and routes in Charleston that offer the opportunity to explore the beautiful natural surroundings on foot or bike.

  • The West Ashley Greenway: A 7-mile trail that passes through wetlands and historic sites.
  • James Island County Park Trail: A 2.2-mile trail that winds through scenic forests and coastal locales.
  • Wannamaker County Park Trail: A 13-mile, multi-use trail that passes through wetlands, forests, and playgrounds.
  • The Ravenel Bridge: A pedestrian and bike-friendly bridge that spans the Cooper River and connects Downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant.

Best Things to Do in Greater Charleston: Activities and Tours

Charleston is an active city with tons of exciting activities and tours to suit every taste.

  • Ghost and Graveyard Tour: Hear spooky stories of Charleston’s haunted past as you stroll through graveyards and ancient streets.
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Discover the historic city in style as you ride through the streets in a traditional carriage.
  • Culinary Tours: Sample the local fare and explore the city’s vibrant food scene as you walk through historic neighborhoods.
  • Charleston Harbor Boat Tours: Take in breathtaking views of the city from the water while learning about Charleston’s history and culture.
  • Charleston Tea Plantation: Learn about the history of tea in America while touring the tea fields and factory.
  • Charleston City Market: Browse local vendors selling handmade crafts, food, and souvenirs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Greater Charleston

Day 1: Tour downtown Charleston’s historic district, including the Battery, Rainbow Row, and historic houses.

Day 2: Explore Charleston’s nearby islands, including Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan’s Island.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Middleton Place or Drayton Hall Plantation for a historical tour and nature walk.

Day 4: Bike the scenic West Ashley Greenway or tour the Francis Marion National Forest.

Day 5: Take a culinary tour of Charleston’s local cuisine.

Day 6: Enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding.

Day 7: Relax at one of Charleston’s local parks or beaches before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Greater Charleston

Charleston’s food scene is vibrant and diverse, with a range of local delicacies and international cuisines to explore.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shrimp and Grits: A southern classic, featuring creamy grits and savory boiled shrimp.
  • She-Crab Soup: A seafood chowder made with crab roe, heavy cream, and sherry.
  • Lowcountry Boil: A hearty seafood stew including shrimp, crab, sausage, and corn on the cob.
  • Hoppin’ John: A rice dish made with black-eyed peas, bacon, and rice.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A southern staple and the official state drink of South Carolina.
  • Palmetto Brewing Company: One of Charleston’s first craft breweries, known for their flagship amber ale.
  • Firefly Moonshine: Products include vodka, whiskey, and moonshine, all distilled in South Carolina.

Where to Stay in Greater Charleston: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Charleston offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to charming bed and breakfasts.

Some popular options include:

  • The Harbourview Inn: A luxury hotel located in the heart of Charleston’s historic district.
  • The Vendue: A boutique hotel that blends modern amenities with historic charm, also located in the heart of the city.
  • Hostel Charleston: An affordable hostel located in Downtown Charleston.
  • The Restoration: A luxury hotel that is well-known for its rooftop bar and popular restaurants.

What to Buy in Greater Charleston: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sweetgrass Baskets: Hand-woven baskets made by local artisans using traditional techniques.
  • Benne Wafers: A sesame seed cookie, a classic dessert of the Lowcountry region.
  • Charleston Chewies: Chipotle and cinnamon flavored nuts, another popular snack of the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Greater Charleston

Charleston is known for its hospitality, relaxed atmosphere, and cultural heritage. The locals are friendly, courteous, and proud of their region’s history and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Greater Charleston

The best time to visit Charleston is during the fall and spring, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller than the peak summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Greater Charleston

Do:

  • Stroll through the city’s historic neighborhoods and visit local attractions.
  • Sample local cuisine, including seafood, barbecue, and sweet tea.
  • Join a guided tour to learn more about the city’s history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disrespect historic sites or natural landmarks.
  • Overlook the importance and impact of slavery on Charleston’s history.
  • Underestimate the heat and humidity - bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Safety and Health

Safety in Greater Charleston

Charleston is a relatively safe city for tourists, but as with any travel destination, it is important to take normal safety precautions.

  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
  • Be cautious when withdrawing large sums of cash and store valuables securely.
  • Put on sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exploring outdoors.

Health in Greater Charleston

Charleston has excellent medical facilities and a range of medical services. Travelers should ensure that they have appropriate health insurance and check on any required vaccinations before visiting.

Getting to Greater Charleston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Charleston is easily accessible by various means of transportation, and there are a range of options available for guests planning a visit.

Airports Near Greater Charleston

  • Charleston International Airport (CHS)
  • Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
  • Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)

Bus Stations Near Greater Charleston

  • Greyhound Station: Located in the heart of Charleston.
  • CARTA: Charleston’s public transportation system, with buses available throughout the city.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: Train services that connect to various locations in nearby states.
  • Ride-sharing options such as Uber, Lyft, or local taxi services.

How to Get Around in Greater Charleston

The historic district of Charleston is easily explored by walking or biking, but for those who prefer public transportation, the CARTA system offers convenient bus services throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Greater Charleston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Charleston is the perfect hub for travelers looking to explore the surrounding area. Popular day trips from the city include:

  • Hilton Head Island: A popular destination for golfers, beachgoers, and nature lovers.
  • Beaufort: A charming seaside town known for its historic district and stunning plantations.
  • Savannah, GA: The picturesque, historic Georgia town is known for its beautiful architecture, picturesque squares, and tasty cuisine.

Conclusion

Greater Charleston is a tourist destination with something for everyone. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s rich history, sample delicious local food, and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds the area. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided all the necessary information to make your Charleston trip a memorable and stress-free experience.



    Charleston
    Kiawah Island
    Seabrook Island
    St. George
    Sullivan's Island