There are many iconic places to visit from rainbow row to the pineapple fountain. Here is a list of the favorite spots you must see in Charleston South Carolina.
We split our 7 day vacation between Charleston and Savannah. It was a tight squeeze to fit our car in the driveway. However, the Charleston Carriage House Airbnb was a location you can’t beat, just a block off Kings Street.
Favorite Spots you Must See in Charleston: Rainbow Row
The iconic row of homes known as rainbow row dates back to the 1800s. They have been historically restored over the years. These fun colored homes are used in many tropical areas because the light colors help to keep the homes cool.
Favorite Spots you Must See in Charleston: Magnolia Plantation
- Open 9am-5pm Daily
- Large-scale romantic-style garden
- History dating back to 1676
- Alligator oasis
- General Admission: Adults: $29; Children 6-12: $15; Children 5 and Under: Free
College of Charleston
College of Charleston is the oldest municipal college in the United States with its gorgeous campus in the heart of the city.
Old City Jail
The old city jail hosts the best haunted ghost tour of Charleston. This gothic building was a fully functional prison from 1802 to 1939.
The Battery
The Battery is a landmark defensive seawall and promenade. There are excellent sidewalks with great views of historic homes and city parks.
Favorite Spots you Must See in Charleston: Joe Riley Waterfront Park
Joe Riley Waterfront Park is home to the pineapple fountain. The 10 acre park overlooks Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River.
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Park
- $12 adult; $7.50 Senior; $7 age 6-15; Free for children 5 and younger
- Take the drive down Olde Town Road
- 80 acres of park gardens
- Only zoo in Charleston (the animal forest)
- 6 miles of paths and trails
King Street Shopping
King Street is a cultural shopping hub lined with many places to eat and drink. It is the epitome of Southern Charm with ancient brick buildings and old clocks along the sidewalk.
White Point Garden
- Heart of the historic district downtown
- Views of Fort Sumpter
- Gazebo surrounded by many oak trees
- Impressive civil war cannons
Angel Oak
The 300-400 year old angel oak tree is located on Johns Island. This is the largest live oak tree East of the Mississippi river. It is free to the pubic and open 7 days a week. However, donations are appreciated.
Favorite Spots you Must See in Charleston: Charleston City Market
- Opened in 1807
- Open Daily 9:30am-6pm
- Takes up 3.5 blocks
- Heart of Charleston
- Most visited place in Charleston
Morris Island Lighthouse
First, find parking on Morris Island. If your lucky there will be a spot left in the parking lot directly across from the light house. Second, Walk the long paved sidewalk caked with caulk art. Lastly, enjoy the large beach and view of the lighthouse.
Day trip to Isle of Palms
Isle of Palms is a city outside of Charleston. However, it a perfect beach spot. Enjoy the grand houses as you drive in to this quant community. This is a relaxing place to stay on a Spring or Summer vacation.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge connects Charleston and Mount Pleasant. It is a cable-stayed bridge over the Cooper River. Furthermore, this bridge includes a bike-pedestrian lane if you want some exercise.
Favorite Spots you Must See in Charleston: Citrus Club at the Dewberry
On the Rooftop of the Dewberry hotel their is an excellent place to overlook the city and enjoys a cocktail or two. However, make sure you check the dress code before you go. Just an FYI men are supposed to wear collared shirts.
Second State Coffee
This small coffee shop has a subscription service to sustainably sourced coffee beans. It has multiple locations. However, the one we enjoyed was in close proximity to Downtown.
Huriyali
In the mood for a good coffee, smoothie bowl, smoothie, juice or savory and sweet bites? This is the place to go. Furthermore, they even have a cute to go area, but we suggest to stay for the ambiance.
Favorite Spots you Must See in Charleston: The Cocktail Club
The Cocktail Club is an absolute MUST if you like a good cocktail! This was truly our favorite place with industrial rustic charm and cozy seating areas. We loved it so much we stayed for hours. Occasionally, they have live music on the weekends. Therefore, check their website beforehand.
Sippin’ Santa Pop Up
We are a sucker for Christmas lights and this place sure did deliver. However, it is only open the month of December.
Old Sheldon Church Ruins
The Old Sheldon Church Ruins are in Yamasee about 1 hour and a half away. However, it is almost the halfway point to Savannah Georgia if you are exploring both cities in one trip like we did.
Carolina Cider and Clockwise Coffee Company
Carolina Cider and Clockwise Coffee Company is a short drive from Old Sheldon Church ruins. They have an adorable market and excellent coffee.
Other Favorite Spots you Must See in Charleston:
- Charleston Beerworks
- Sullivans Island Lighthouse
- Cypress Gardens
- Drayton Hall
- Fort Sumter National Monument
- Boone Hall Plantation
- Firefly Distillery
- Palemetto Brewery
- McLeod Plantation
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