Top Rated Scenic Spots and Attractions Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. From stunning beaches to picturesque plantations, there’s no shortage of scenic spots and attractions to explore in this charming city. Here are some of the top-rated places to visit in Charleston.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is one of the oldest plantations in the South, dating back to the 1670s. The plantation boasts some of the most beautiful gardens in the country, including the world-famous Azalea Hillside, which features thousands of colorful azaleas in the spring. Visitors can also take a tour of the plantation house and explore the extensive nature trails on the property.
Rainbow Row
Rainbow Row is a series of colorful historic homes on East Bay Street in Charleston. The row is one of the most photographed spots in the city, with its bright pastel colors and charming architecture. Visitors can stroll along the street and take in the colorful buildings, which date back to the 18th century.
The Battery
The Battery is a historic park in downtown Charleston that offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter. Visitors can walk along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the sea breeze while taking in the views of the harbor and the stately homes along East Battery Street. The park is also home to several historic statues and monuments, including a memorial to the Confederate Defenders of Charleston.
Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Sumter National Monument is a historic fort located on an island in Charleston Harbor. The fort is famous for being the site of the first shots of the American Civil War in 1861. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and tour the fort, which includes exhibits and displays about the history of the fort and the Civil War.
Middleton Place
Middleton Place is a historic plantation and gardens located on the Ashley River. The plantation dates back to the 18th century and features stunning formal gardens, a stable yard, and a museum. Visitors can take a tour of the plantation house and enjoy the natural beauty of the gardens and grounds.
Charleston City Market
The Charleston City Market is a historic market in downtown Charleston that dates back to the 1790s. The market spans four blocks and features hundreds of vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. Visitors can stroll through the market and enjoy the lively atmosphere, which includes street performers and local musicians.
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Cooper River in Charleston. The bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor and the surrounding areas. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge and take in the views from the pedestrian and bicycle lane.
Folly Beach
Folly Beach is a popular beach destination located just outside of Charleston. The beach features miles of sandy shoreline and plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Visitors can also explore the nearby shops and restaurants in the charming beach town.
The Nathaniel Russell House
The Nathaniel Russell House is a historic home located in downtown Charleston. The house was built in the late 18th century and features stunning architecture and period furnishings. Visitors can take a tour of the house and learn about the history of the home and its former residents.
The Angel Oak Tree
The Angel Oak Tree is a historic live oak tree located on Johns Island, just outside of Charleston. The tree is estimated to be over 400 years old and is one of the largest live oak trees in the country. Visitors can stroll through the park and take in the natural beauty of the tree and the surrounding area.
Drayton Hall
Drayton Hall is a historic plantation located on the Ashley River. The plantation dates back to the 18th century and is one of the few plantation houses that survived both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Visitors can take a tour of the house and explore the beautiful gardens and grounds.
The Gibbes Museum of Art
The Gibbes Museum of Art is a fine art museum located in downtown Charleston. The museum features a collection of American art from the colonial era to the present day, as well as rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. Visitors can also take part in educational programs and events offered by the museum.
The Dock Street Theatre
The Dock Street Theatre is a historic theater located in downtown Charleston. The theater was built in the 18th century and has been beautifully restored to its former glory. Visitors can take a tour of the theater and learn about its history, as well as attend performances of plays and musicals.
The South Carolina Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium is a public aquarium located in downtown Charleston. The aquarium features exhibits and displays of marine life from the coast of South Carolina and beyond, as well as educational programs and events. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of Charleston Harbor from the aquarium’s rooftop terrace.
The Old City Jail
The Old City Jail is a historic jail located in downtown Charleston. The jail was in operation from 1802 to 1939 and housed some of the most notorious criminals in South Carolina’s history. Visitors can take a tour of the jail and learn about its dark history, as well as explore the jail’s eerie cells and corridors.
The Cooper River Bridge Run
The Cooper River Bridge Run is an annual 10K race that takes place on the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in Charleston. The race attracts thousands of runners from around the world and offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor and the surrounding area. Visitors can also participate in pre- and post-race events and activities.
The Charleston Tea Plantation
The Charleston Tea Plantation is a working tea plantation located on Wadmalaw Island, just outside of Charleston. The plantation is the only tea plantation in North America and produces some of the finest tea in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the plantation and learn about the tea-making process, as well as sample the plantation’s delicious tea.
The Battery and White Point Gardens
White Point Gardens is a public park located at the southern end of the Battery in downtown Charleston. The park features a beautiful gazebo, several historic statues and monuments, and stunning views of Charleston Harbor. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the sea breeze and the beautiful scenery.
The H.L. Hunley Submarine
The H.L. Hunley Submarine is a historic Confederate submarine that played a significant role in the Civil War. The submarine was lost at sea in 1864 and was only rediscovered in 1995. Visitors can take a tour of the submarine and learn about its history and the brave men who served on it.
The Edmondston-Alston House
The Edmondston-Alston House is a historic home located in downtown Charleston. The house dates back to the early 19th century and features beautiful architecture and period furnishings. Visitors can take a tour of the house and learn about the history of the home and its former residents, as well as enjoy the stunning views of Charleston Harbor from the house’s piazza.