Charleston is consistently named one of the top cities to visit in the United States, and it’s no secret why. This pastel-hued lowcountry city dazzles with a vibrant culinary scene, a plethora of historic landmarks, and glistening waterfront views. There is much to see and do here, making it a daunting task for first-time visitors to narrow down their must-do list. But fear not, we’re here to help with a round-up of our standout spots–both iconic mainstays and hidden gems.
Check out seven of Charleston’s must-see attractions for first-time visitors.
Waterfront Park
Downtown Charleston is a preserved piece of the past that backs right up to the Charleston Harbor and Cooper River, providing many access points to overlook the water. One of the most popular is the aptly named Waterfront Park, which features a serene riverwalk, a floating pier, and a massive park sprinkled with the region’s iconic Spanish moss-dripped oak trees. Whether you’re setting out on your morning hot girl walk with an iced coffee in hand or walking off a seafood dinner hand-in-hand with a loved one, this is the place to do it.
The Pineapple Fountain is a focal point of the park, serving as a magnet for photo seekers. On a hot South Carolina day, you’ll even find people kicking off their shoes and wading in the water, and little ones making memories one splash at a time. Pineapples have a history of representing Southern hospitality, so this iconic landmark is a fitting staple in this city.
Ravenel Bridge
When visiting Charleston, one of our key recommendations is to step outside of the downtown footprint. The best way to do that? Cross the iconic Ravenel Bridge, which leads to gems like Mount Pleasant and Shem Creek. To truly appreciate the iconic overpass, we recommend walking or biking (bonus points if you go at sunset). This is a favorite activity for Chucktown locals and a great way to get your body moving while taking in the scenery.
There are a few simple ways to access the walking path, the most popular being the Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant, near the Visitor Center. But we’ve got a pro tip! Directly at the bottom of the Mount Pleasant side of the bridge, there is a Shell gas station with extra parking spots specifically for bridge goers. Park at the Shell, grab a cold drink inside, and head on your way. The bridge is two and a half miles long, so you’ll knock out five miles roundtrip if you make it from end to end.
Morris Island Lighthouse
Charleston is first and foremost a coastal town, and any of its neighboring beaches are worth slotting into your itinerary. Folly Beach is a locally-loved laidback option that oozes with character and welcoming energy. Some of our favorite food in all of Charleston can be found here, but that’s not where the allure ends.
Tucked away on the northern end of Folly is a small beach nook where you can view the Morris Island Lighthouse. Make a left from Center Street onto Ashley Avenue, take it as far as you can, park, then follow the graffiti path all the way until your toes hit the sand. While you can’t actually tour the lighthouse, it’s a picturesque treat for those willing to make the journey.
Magnolia Gardens
The South has a complicated past, and while there are lots of historical sites that are abundantly beautiful on the outside but hold an uncomfortable story on the inside, we’re proud of the work historians have done to tell the full story and honor those who were once wronged. These places are absolutely worth visiting and serve as an opportunity for education, understanding, and paying respects.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is nearly 350 years old, but today blends together heartbreaking history with spectacular landscaping and preserved historical elements, making it a frequent destination for history buffs and photographers alike. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn how the plantation and gardens began, and learn about its past surrounding slavery and the Civil War.
The 66-acre grounds also offer a peek at agriculture in the Carolinas, with alligators, egrets, and more navigating through the Audubon Swamp Garden with thousands of types of plants. Fuel up for exploring at the Peacock Café, which offers a menu of locally sourced bites. And, you can’t complete your visit without a stop at the Wildlife Center to check out rescued indigenous animals up close.
Charleston City Market
Market Street is one of the most popular in all of Charleston, home to the Charleston City Market that operates daily (and nightly!). The strip is a lively downtown destination brimming with souvenirs and local goods, but it also radiates with cultural significance. The market has served as a place for suppliers to sell since the 1800s, keeping the city pulsing with shoppers. Today, you’ll find more than 300 vendors gathered in this open-air market, selling delicious treats and artisan goods, including sweetgrass baskets, one of the oldest crafts of Gullah makers.
There are also plenty of places to eat and shop on either side of the market and you’re placed in ideal walking distance of many other downtown Charleston attractions. The market is open every day except for Christmas, and on Fridays and Saturdays in March through December, the night market kicks off with music and even more food.
Shem Creek
Leave downtown behind for a day and head into Mount Pleasant next door. Shem Creek is a waterfront oasis lined with bars and restaurants on both sides, all of which are reachable by both car amd boat. After grabbing a cold one from a local eatery, grab a spot waterfront spot to watch fishermen, shrimp boats, paddle boarders, and dolphins cruising up and down the water.
You can cross from one side of the creek to the other on a picturesque bridge, perfect for stopping to take in the view. You’ll find some of the freshest seafood in Charleston on Shem, ranging from Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits to modern twists like tuna nachos. Our top pick to eat? Saltwater Cowboys. Best place to grab drinks? Reds. No matter where you go, be sure to stay for a spectacular sunset.
Church and Union
One of the few drawbacks of an East Coast beach town is the borderline oppressive humidity. Charleston’s charm doesn’t make it exempt, unfortunately, but the city boasts a long list of indoor attractions where you can wait out a sticky day or a rainy washout. An excellent family-friendly option is to duck inside the South Carolina Aquarium.
Here, you can explore the various ecosystems of the entire state through multiple interactive exhibits, which includes a two-story Great Ocean Tank that bubbles with sealife from sharks to sea turtles. Turtles play a big part at this aquarium, with an entire Sea Turtle Care Center™ dedicated to rehabilitating sick and injured turtles (which, once rehabbed, are released back into the wild). There are learning opportunities for visitors of all ages, as the South Carolina Aquarium dives deep into the Palmetto State’s aquatic habitats. Keep an eye out for their unique events throughout the year!
Charleston is one of several cities across the south that is a treasure trove of essential experiences. Looking for more new and noteworthy Southern spots? We’ve got you.
