11 Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC in 2026 (With Local Tips You’ll Love)
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Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the most charming cities in the United States. It’s a place where pastel homes, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old oak trees welcome you with Southern hospitality. On most days, I feel very fortunate to call Charleston home. As a Charleston local, I spend my free time wandering these beautiful streets, exploring historic spots, and trying to discover hidden gems.
Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a weekend trip, or your first Lowcountry experience, these are our top 11 things to do in Charleston, SC in 2026.
Why Charleston, SC Belongs on Your 2026 Travel Bucket List
Founded in 1670, Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the U.S. and has been named one of the top travel destinations in the world. With its rich colonial history, antebellum architecture, incredible food scene, and a peaceful coastal vibe, there’s something here for everyone.
11 Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC (2025 Edition)
Downtown Charleston is a peninsula, and all of the activities on this list are within walking distance. However, if you get too hot, too tired, or lost, Pedicabs, Uber/Lyft and the free CARTA shuttle (part of Charleston’s public bus system) are all readily available.
1. Stroll Through Waterfront Park and Snap a Photo at the Pineapple Fountain
Address: Concord Street & Vendue Range
Cost: Free
Open: Always
This iconic park along the Cooper River offers shaded walkways, charming swings, and panoramic harbor views. The Pineapple Fountain is a symbol of hospitality, and a must-snap Instagram shot.
When I am heading somewhere, heading back to my car after dinner, or even just out for a walk, I often detour to Waterfront Park. It’s one of my favorite places to slow down, breathe in the salty breeze from the harbor, and listen to the rhythmic sound of the water.
You’ll find locals sipping coffee on the benches while their kids cool off in the fountain at the North entrance. While it’s easy to snap a quick picture and move on, I always recommend lingering awhile. Watch the sunlight as it hits the water, look for sailboats and dolphins in the harbor, and take-in views that make this city so easy to fall in love with.
This park is easy to get to, provides shaded seating along one side of the park, and usually provides a nice breeze from the water on the other side of the park-which is why it’s landed as number 1 on our list of Fun Things to Do and See in Charleston in 2026!
☑️Local Tip: If you happen to be in Charleston in December for the Boat Parade- Waterfront Park is, in my opinion, the best place in the city to watch it!
2. Browse the Historic Charleston City Market (Don’t Miss the Night Market!)
Address: 188 Meeting Street
Cost: Free
Open: 9:30 AM–5:00 PM Daily
Night Market: Fridays & Saturdays, 6:30 PM–10:30 PM (March–December)
This isn’t your average souvenir stop. The Charleston City Market has been a hub of local trade and community for over two centuries, and walking through it feels like stepping into a living piece of Lowcountry history. The sounds of laughter and conversation bounce off the old brick walls, and the smell of roasted pecans and handmade soap lingers in the air.
One of the most memorable parts of visiting the market is watching the Gullah artisans weaving sweetgrass baskets which are a tradition passed down for generations. If you pause to chat, you might even get a story or two about how their craft began. We always tell friends who are in town visiting, to save time for the Night Market too. It has a different atmosphere, it is more relaxed with local musicians playing in the background and different vendors setting up shop. It’s the perfect place to pick up a one-of-a-kind keepsake or grab a snack before a late dinner.
☑️Local Tip: You can find several rest areas inside the Charleston City Market. The start of the City Market (closest to Market St.) offers a section of enclosed, air conditioned venues which can give you a respite from the heat.
3. Take a Photo Walk Along Rainbow Row
Address: 79-107 E. Bay Street
Cost: Free
Open: Always
Rainbow Row is one of those places where Charleston feels like a painting brought to life. A soft breeze off the harbor carries the scent of salt and magnolias, and pastel-hued homes line East Bay Street in a picture-perfect row. If you’re visiting for the first time, it’s almost impossible not to gasp just a little because it’s that pretty.
Originally built in the 1700s as townhouses for merchants, these buildings fell into disrepair before being lovingly restored and repainted in the 1930s and ‘40s. Today, they’re among the most photographed spots in the city. But beyond their Instagram fame, they’re a symbol of Charleston’s resilience, charm, and dedication to preservation.
As locals, we love walking by in the early morning before the crowds arrive or just after sunset when the homes glow with soft golden light. Even if you’ve seen photos online, nothing compares to standing in front of those iconic facades, soaking in the history that’s seeped into the brickwork.
📍Local Tip: Wander just a block inland and you’ll find some of Charleston’s quietest and most charming alleys. This is a perfect area for exploring off the beaten path.
4. Tour the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
Address: 122 E. Bay Street
Cost: $16 adults / $12 children (6-12) / Free for kids under 6
Open: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
If you’re a history buff—or even if you just enjoy stories with a bit of drama, the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon is a must. I still remember the first time I went down into the dungeon: the dim lighting, the cold stone walls, and the quiet hush that made it feel like I had gone back in time. At that time, animatronics were set up to tell stories of how the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon was used historically. Who knew that something that seemed like a Disney show was right here in Charleston?!(The animatronics no longer work, but you can still see most of them—and for “Outer Banks” fans, you’ll recognize some of the spaces in the dungeon).
Built in 1771, this imposing structure has served many roles: a custom house, a Revolutionary War prison, and even a place where the U.S. Constitution was debated. The guided tours are well worth it—they bring the place to life with tales of pirates, patriots, and prisoners. And while the upper floors are filled with fascinating exhibits, it’s the underground Provost Dungeon that really leaves a lasting impression.
📍Local Tip: Ask your guide about the ghost stories, or better yet, catch the Charleston Ghost and Dungeon Tour through Bulldog Tours. Some believe the dungeon still has a few lingering spirits—and whether you believe or not, it adds a fun layer to an already compelling visit.
5. Walk the Battery and Relax at White Point Garden
Address: 2 Murray Blvd.
Cost: Free
Open: Always
There’s no better way to experience Charleston’s coastal elegance than by walking the Battery. This is a waterfront promenade which offers a view of elegant antebellum mansions to one side and picturesque view of the Charleston harbor on the other side. This area was originally designed to be a defensive seawall and artillery battery to protect the city.
At the southern end of the Battery you will find White Point Gardens which is a beautiful (and shaded) park filled with historical monuments, live oak trees, and replica civil war cannons. This is a peaceful greenspace where you can sit down and relax as well as view Fort Sumter in the distance.
6. Join a Spooky Charleston Ghost Tour
Address: Varies (mostly near City Market/Anson St.)
Cost: Starts at $30
Open: Evenings; advance booking recommended
Charleston is known to be one of the most haunted cities in America. With centuries of battle, fires, earthquakes, pirates and heartbreak, it’s no surprise that ghost tours have become one of the most memorable experiences you can have here. Ghost tours offer a great way to get some insight about the city and it’s rich history as well as to discover Charleston’s haunted past.
Here are some of our favorite tours:
- Charleston Ghost and Dungeon Tour
- Haunted Carriage Tour
- The Charleston Ghost and Graveyard Tour
- The Charleston Haunted Jail Tour
- The Dark Side of Charleston Tour (Rated R)
- USS Yorktown Ghost Tour – this tour is on the USS Yorktown which is located right across the Cooper River in Mt. Pleasant at Patriot’s Point
7. Shop, Dine, and People-Watch on King Street
Address: King Street (Spring to Broad St.)
Cost: Free to browse
Open: King Street is always open, stores and restaurant opening and closing times vary. Note that most of the antique stores and some of the art galleries are closed on Sundays.
King Street is a vibrant area that is filled with trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, art galleries, antique shops, National brands and high-end boutiques.
Whether you’re in the mood to window shop, sip a craft cocktail, or just watch the world go by, King Street is the place to be.
⭐Second Sundays are one of our favorite times to visit. Once a month, the city shuts down part of King Street to cars and turns it into a pedestrian-only celebration. There are street performers, sidewalk sales, and locals walking their dogs with coffee in hand. Find out more information about Second Sunday as well as some other Hidden Gems by reading 14 Hidden Gems in Charleston, SC: Secret Local Spots You Need to Visit in 2026.
☑️Local’s Tip: If you love vintage finds, be sure to explore the stretch between Calhoun and George Street, there are some hidden gems, especially in the antique and design shops.
8. Try Charleston’s Famous She-Crab Soup
A regional specialty of the Lowcountry, She Crab soup is a must-try while you are in Charleston. This dish is believed to have originated in Charleston in the 1700s by Scottish and Irish settlers, and has evolved with French and Creole influences. Made with crab meat, crab roe, cream and sherry this unique dish has a creamy texture and a delightful taste, which is why it has landed itself on our list of fun things to do and see in Charleston.
We’ve tried it at nearly every restaurant that offers it in town, and each version brings its own flair. Here are some of our go-to restaurants for She Crab Soup:
🦐 82 Queen
9. Browse the Charleston Farmers Market at Marion Square
Address: 329 Meeting Street
Cost: Free to browse
Open: Saturdays, April – November (Holiday Market open Saturdays and Sundays in December)
Every Saturday morning in Marion Square feels like a community reunion. Locals with reusable tote bags stroll past rows of fresh produce, hot biscuits, handmade candles, and live music drifting through the air.
This Farmers Market supports local farmers, food growers and artisans. You will be able to find freshly grown produce, local packaged foods (such as olive oils, pickled vegetables, and hot sauces), locally made arts and crafts, and a variety of food trucks.
📍Local Tip: Arrive before 10AM because it’s less crowded and you’ll have the best produce to pick from!
10. Take a Ferry Ride to Fort Sumter
Address: 340 Concord St. (Downtown) or Patriots Point (Mt. Pleasant)
Cost: $10 ferry / Visitor’s Center is free
Open: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (Closed major holidays)
If you are a history lover, or even if you just enjoy a scenic boat ride, you won’t want to miss a trip to Fort Sumter- the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Fort Sumter is located in the middle of Charleston Harbor and is only accessible by Ferry through Fort Sumter Tours. This is a 30-minute cruise on the ferry before you disembark onto Fort Sumter.
National Park service rangers will be available at Fort Sumter to answer any questions that you may have. While in the Fort, you can explore what remains and learn about the events that lead to the Civil War and the role that Fort Sumter played in that war. You can listen to or read a guided tour of Fort Sumter which generally takes an hour before you board the Ferry back.
📍Local Tip: Sit on the top deck of the ferry for panoramic views and breeze, which is especially nice in spring and fall.
11. Go on a Sunset Cruise
Address: Varies by provider
Cost: $40–$88 per person
Open: Nightly (start time varies seasonally)
If you’re looking for a romantic or relaxing way to end your day, a Charleston sunset cruise is hard to beat. These cruises take you by some of the historic sites that can be seen from the harbor while allowing you time to enjoy Charleston’s marine wildlife. Aquatic birds and waterfowl as well as dolphins can often be seen on a sunset cruise! This is a unique and memorable way to experience breathtaking coastal views while in a relaxing ambiance and witnessing the city’s beauty from a different perspective. This tour also allows you to disconnect from the fast pace of today’s society and relax on the water while seeing the majestic and peaceful sunset in the distance.
We have gone on many sunset cruises throughout the years, each company offers its own unique perspective, but they all provide a fantastic view of the sunset!
⛵Sunset Harbor Tour on the Carolina Belle
⛵Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise
⛵Harbor Sunset Cruise on Carolina Blue (Sandlapper’s Tour)
Map of the 11 Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC in 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Planning your 2026 Charleston Getaway
We took a few common questions we get form our guests to answer for you.
What is Charleston known for?
Charleston is known for its rich history, its role in both the Civil and Revolutionary war, its charming antebellum architecture, its vibrant culture and delicious Lowcountry cuisine. Not only was Charleston the first city in the United States to have a public college, but it was also the first to have a museum (link to visit), and a playhouse. Charleston has been given the nickname the “Holy City” because of the numerous historic churches still found here and its religious tolerance since the 1700s.
Is 2 days enough time in Charleston?
Ideally, we would recommend a minimum of 3 days (Here is our 3 Day Itinerary), especially if you plan to venture outside of the city center. However, given any amount of time, you will be able to experience the charm of Charleston and get to see some of Charleston’s sites and offerings
What is the best time of year to visit Charleston?
Charleston has a subtropical climate and can get very hot and humid during the summer months and mild during the winter.
On average, July is the hottest month and January is the coolest month. The most rainfall happens in August, although throughout the summer sudden intense storms often happen, but they generally pass through quickly.
We would recommend the spring and fall for the optimal tourist climate!
Is Charleston a walkable city?
Downtown Charleston is a very walkable city. If you plan on doing a lot of walking, don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes as a lot of the sidewalks are uneven and in certain areas you will find cobblestone and brick streets and walkways. If you get tired, you can always use the public bus CARTA or rent a Pedicab to take you a short distance.
If you plan to venture outside of downtown, you will need a car, or you can get an Uber/Lyft.
Related Articles:
What to pack for Charleston so that you don’t melt
14 Hidden Gems in Charleston, SC
Charleton Hidden Alleyways: A Local’s Guide to the Most Charming Secret Paths in Charleston, SC
Dog- Friendly Charleston: The Best Places to Take your Pup in the Holy City
Wrapping Things Up: Why You’ll Love Charleston in 2026
Charleston, South Carolina is an incredible place to visit. From shaded parks and ghost tours to seafood feasts and harbor breezes, this city invites you to slow down and savor every moment. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, there’s always something new to fall in love with.
We hope that you enjoyed reading through our list of the 11 Fun Things to See and Do in Charleston in 2025. It’s time to start planning your visit to Charleston!
