Unique things to do in Charleston
AIRBNB EXPERIENCES

Unique things to do in Charleston

Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.

Travel like a local

This is a city with soul, one that has beauty and grace that is on full display with its architecture and vibrant historic neighborhoods. For unique things to do in Charleston, don’t miss activities that bring you closer to this South Carolina city’s story: do the Gateway Walk, visit PURE Theater, and eat more than the shrimp and grits. Locals can show you firsthand how to enjoy your time here on a Charleston sunset sail, a crabbing adventure at a downtown pier, and history walking tours, among other Airbnb Experiences.

Top-rated activities

The Best Charleston History Tour-10am
Explore Charleston's history with the largest Airbnb experience provider in South Carolina. This History Tour promises an unparalleled learning experience, delving into the city's evolution from modern-day Charleston to its intriguing origins. Discover mind-blowing facts about everything from Slavery to Santa Claus, all presented in a captivating story format. I tailor the tour to your interests, with discussions that lead you through Charleston's history with humor and sometimes irreverence. Starting at Waterfront Park, we spend the first part of the tour talking about how it all came to be, and the second part of the tour building on that foundation as we see the amazing sights of historic Charleston. The tour culminates near our starting point, leaving you not only with memories but also the proud new owners of the most valuable souvenir of your trip – knowledge. So come on y'all... this trip ain't gonna book itself :) LOL (Airbnb limit is 10 tickets, but exceptions are possible. Visit Chucktown Tours' website for direct bookings)
Boo-Hag and Brews Ghost/Bar Tour
Is this a walking brew tour with a side of ghosts or a ghost tour with a side of brews? While guests will have to decide on that, we can tell you this is not an average "sit there and shut up " tour, but rather an opportunity to engage back and forth with a 7th gen. local. As a combined bar and ghost tour guests will start out at a local Irish pub where an appetizer will be provided complimentary and guests can order some delicious cocktails or beers (yes the Guinness is on tap ) while the guide goes over the basics of local history and the ghosts present in the City of Charleston. From there guests will walk by several historic graveyards and alleyways to hear in-depth stories of local ghosts and spirits such as the notorious BOO-HAG which is only known to Charleston. Guests will begin to understand why/how ghostly activity can take place after particular circumstances of love, tragedy, and horror. Eventually the group will make its way over to the relative safety of another bar. The tour will wind down at a hauntingly beautiful local park to hear about one of the first female serial killers. Don't stick around too long after... -Please bring valid photo identification (license or passport). -Experience is for guests 21+ only. -This experience is Not for guests with walking difficulties -One small snack provided at beginning of tour - Two bars are visited
Evening Haunted Ghost Tour
WE ARE OPEN YOU CAN BOOK DIRECT. GO TO www.scarycharleston.com or call: 843-343-9255 -TOUR DURATION: Hour and 15 minute *****HOT NEWS: Just proclaimed by "FROMMERS TRAVEL Guide" as "TOP seven ghosts tours in the nation. On your tour you will be taken to the top haunted locations in Charleston. Charleston is a beautiful city filled with many haunted houses. You will see beautiful old graveyards/ churches and historical buildings. You will also step away with a greater appreciation for spirits unable to pass to the other side. We carefully select the top haunted locations. These locations have been featured on the History Channel/ Discovery Channel/ Ghost Adventures. And the Travel Channel. And numerous periodicals. Their are several other tour companies in town. But we guarantee you will be escorted by a guide that has a unique PASSION for the macabre. If you want to be transported back in time. And walk the same streets as pirates and patriots, then this tour is for you. Please understand no dogs can be brought on the tour. -Guest's must be at least 12 years old. Tour is a walking tour, approximately 5 blocks. All flat surfaces. with frequent rest stops. ***** TOUR CAPACITY MAY EXCEDD 10 PEOPLE****
Women and Wine Tour with Local Guides
*Before booking please read full notation below, please note this is an updated tour from some of the previous reviews and a focus on women’s history but the same quality guides and historians! The Women and Wine is a combined history and bar tour that will include two bar stops and historic sites in between. Led and designed by two locals Gia and Capt. Bryan the focus of this experience is on women who changed the scene politically, socially, and economically in this city of firsts with drink options along the way in the partner bar establishments. Start out by enjoying a glass of wine/beer/ or cocktail in a wine bar started by three women entrepreneurs and being introduced to women who were active in Prohibition era Charleston. From there guests will explore the historic district and several sites associated with influential women in awe inspiring tales of adversity and strength. Guests will finish the tour in the second bar establishment. While this experience is designed in part by women, and about women, it will be a unique adventure for guests of all backgrounds and the first of its kind being offered in Charleston. *This tour is not suitable for guests that may have difficulty walking or any mobility issues such as climbing stairs. 1.5 mile walk in between the bars *Rain or Shine unless otherwise noted * Must be 21+ years old *** Drink not included
Behind the Scenes of Shem Creek Shrimp
Read All! This walking tour led by Captain Bryan is not your average "sit and shut up" tour where the guide won't even remember your name. Rather, after brief introduction, Captain Bryan will lead you on a historic journey of how Shem Creek came to prominence with its famous shrimping fleet and much more. Guest will start with some underlying history in Old Village. This important history lesson will go over the transition of the community from agriculture to shrimping. From there guests will visit Geechie Seafood and their shrimp boats, beautiful reminders of the bountiful harvest to be conducted offshore. Furthermore, guests will visit another seafood market to understand the trials and tribulations of the industry. At the end of the tour there will be a cast net demonstration on how to catch shrimp. This is not a tour, it is an experience to immerse yourself in a culture that is truly intrinsic to the area. Take back history, culture, a small snack, but most of all guests will take from this experience an underlying appreciation for our local shrimpers and the history behind these hard working men and women. As Captain Bryan says, " Live the Local Life" and this experience is the perfect opportunity to do so. ***** -Please note this is an active walking experience, guests with any walking difficulties should not join! 2 miles -Shrimp are NOT consumed as part of tour

Most popular in Charleston

Dolphin/Morris Island Cruise/BYOB Intimate and Relaxing
We will enjoy a cruise through the salt marshes of one of Charleston’s most scenic rivers. We will visit Morris Island, an uninhabited barrier island. You will have a breathtaking view of the famous Morris Island Lighthouse. If you wish, you may take a leisurely stroll on the beach for some good photo opportunities. During our tour you will see a wide array of local wildlife including the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. Bring whatever you’d like to eat or drink. (BYOB)! This trip is great for a group of friends or the whole family. We are pet friendly!
Badass Broads of Charleston
The Badass Broads tour is a two hour walk through the history of CHS with a special emphasis on eight of our badass women. We will visit a spot, discuss the historical importance of that spot, and connect it to one of the women from Charleston's history. You can't tell the story of the women without the history and you shouldn't tell the history without the story of the women.
Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy - Cocktail Class
*3 Cocktails & Snacks Included! - Tommy “Alchemy” Paul teaches the history of prohibition through Cocktails. 2 parts learning, to 3 parts drinking. This dynamic Cocktail class teaches you how to make prohibition era Classic Cocktails while learning about prohibition and of course, drinking! Make your hazy trip to Charleston more historical through the lens of Cocktails. Hosted at a real speakeasy in the heart of Holy City. Book now for a boozy experience unlike anything else. *Must have a valid ID to participate*
History and Hops Tour-Bar & History Walk
Welcome to Charleston, well known as a drinking city with a slight history problem! With this in mind guests will meet at the initial bar location where one small snack will be served and guests will have the opportunity to purchase some local craft beer or cocktails while the guides (Adam or Bryan) go over a brief personal introduction and history of the City of Charleston. From there guests will walk to historic sites around the French Quarter including one of the oldest homes in Charleston. Brief stories and accurate historical insight from a licensed guide will cover a period stemming from the early colonial days all the way through World War II including topics on the revolutionary/civil war, pirate attacks, and of course alcohol in this famous city. This is not a typical "sit there and shut up tour" but rather an opportunity to engage with your licensed guide! Guests will be able to seek a brief respite at the next dive bar location and a particular focus will be given to the period of prohibition in Charleston as a city rife with bootleggers, speakeasies, and "Blind Tigers." The tour will finish at a stunningly beautiful local park in close proximity to other area bars and restaurants since many guests just don't want the history and hops tour to end! -***Drinks not included *** -One small snack at initial bar location -2 bars are visited along with historic sites
Charleston Walking & Storytelling Tour
This tour is an exploration of Charleston that highlights the women and men who helped found Charleston and the United States. Did you know, without the pirates and patriots of Charleston, the United States may not exist today? We start our experience in front of the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, one of Charleston’s oldest and most historical buildings. Learn about George Washington’s visit in 1791, and the dungeon’s prisoners who met their fate. Next, we venture down East Bay Street, passing Rainbow Row. Behold gorgeous mansions, and witness breathtaking views of the Charleston Harbor and White Point Garden. Walk in the footsteps of pirates and their captors. Next, we turn inward and walk through Charleston’s South of Broad neighborhood. Learn about the man George Washington and Thomas Jefferson said was the true father of America. stand on the same grounds where many pirates and robber barons met their fate. Learn the true stories of how pirates looted and plundered to make their way. Last, we venture back to our starting point, passing by the Four Corners of the Law and the shops and residences on Broad Street. Join us for an exploration, an awakening, and an empowerment trip through time in Charleston’s oldest neighborhood.

Activities near top attractions

The Battery628 locals recommend
South Carolina Aquarium489 locals recommend
Rainbow Row467 locals recommend
Patriots Point452 locals recommend
Historic Charleston City Market364 locals recommend
Waterfront Park321 locals recommend

Things to do near James Island

Dolphin/Morris Island Cruise/BYOB Intimate and Relaxing
We will enjoy a cruise through the salt marshes of one of Charleston’s most scenic rivers. We will visit Morris Island, an uninhabited barrier island. You will have a breathtaking view of the famous Morris Island Lighthouse. If you wish, you may take a leisurely stroll on the beach for some good photo opportunities. During our tour you will see a wide array of local wildlife including the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. Bring whatever you’d like to eat or drink. (BYOB)! This trip is great for a group of friends or the whole family. We are pet friendly!
The Best Charleston History Tour-10am
Explore Charleston's history with the largest Airbnb experience provider in South Carolina. This History Tour promises an unparalleled learning experience, delving into the city's evolution from modern-day Charleston to its intriguing origins. Discover mind-blowing facts about everything from Slavery to Santa Claus, all presented in a captivating story format. I tailor the tour to your interests, with discussions that lead you through Charleston's history with humor and sometimes irreverence. Starting at Waterfront Park, we spend the first part of the tour talking about how it all came to be, and the second part of the tour building on that foundation as we see the amazing sights of historic Charleston. The tour culminates near our starting point, leaving you not only with memories but also the proud new owners of the most valuable souvenir of your trip – knowledge. So come on y'all... this trip ain't gonna book itself :) LOL (Airbnb limit is 10 tickets, but exceptions are possible. Visit Chucktown Tours' website for direct bookings)
History and Hops Tour-Bar & History Walk
Welcome to Charleston, well known as a drinking city with a slight history problem! With this in mind guests will meet at the initial bar location where one small snack will be served and guests will have the opportunity to purchase some local craft beer or cocktails while the guides (Adam or Bryan) go over a brief personal introduction and history of the City of Charleston. From there guests will walk to historic sites around the French Quarter including one of the oldest homes in Charleston. Brief stories and accurate historical insight from a licensed guide will cover a period stemming from the early colonial days all the way through World War II including topics on the revolutionary/civil war, pirate attacks, and of course alcohol in this famous city. This is not a typical "sit there and shut up tour" but rather an opportunity to engage with your licensed guide! Guests will be able to seek a brief respite at the next dive bar location and a particular focus will be given to the period of prohibition in Charleston as a city rife with bootleggers, speakeasies, and "Blind Tigers." The tour will finish at a stunningly beautiful local park in close proximity to other area bars and restaurants since many guests just don't want the history and hops tour to end! -***Drinks not included *** -One small snack at initial bar location -2 bars are visited along with historic sites
Private Photo Session in Historic Charleston
I would like to do my best to make guests in Charleston feel relaxed and happy and explore as much as possible during their trip. My main goal is to make you satisfied with travelling killing two birds with one stone. You will explore some interesting historic places of Charleston. I would be happy to guide you through cobbled street, cozy alley and avenue of oaks. It is a great opportunity for you to get a great experience of professional photography, gain unforgettable memories and learn more about a city with such a long and interesting history. In additional to that photo session can be done: - Boone Hall Plantation; - Cypress Gardens; - Charles Towne Landing; - Isle of Palms; - Shem Creek. To see full quality and loads of my work check out my INSTA(@charleston.proposal) What you get: -Good conversation, professionalism and assistance with posing; -The most prettiest and popular spots in town for professional photo session; -After photo session you'll get 10 photos of your choice, they will be professionally edited for social media. This experience would be an ideal match for: Secret proposal session; Family session; Anniversary session; Elopement session; Maternity session; Bachelor session; Engagement session; Session for dating couples. Unfortunately, I don’t do single portrait session except senior and graduation session.
Dolphin/shelling adventure or Custom Private Group Cruise
If its dolphin and shelling you're looking for, you've come to the right place! We'll depart from Folly River Boat Landing and enjoy a scenic boat ride through the salt marsh creeks of Folly Island to historic Morris Island. Once on Morris Island, you’ll have the opportunity to walk the beach in search of shells, shark teeth, and other fossils. From Morris Island you will also enjoy breathtaking up-close views of the historic Morris Island lighthouse. During your journey to and from the island, you will enjoy numerous sightings of Bottlenose Dolphins and other saltwater wildlife. If you'd like something different...booze cruise, sunset cruise, or anything else, just contact me for a customized experience for you and your group!

Things to do near Daniel Island

Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy - Cocktail Class
*3 Cocktails & Snacks Included! - Tommy “Alchemy” Paul teaches the history of prohibition through Cocktails. 2 parts learning, to 3 parts drinking. This dynamic Cocktail class teaches you how to make prohibition era Classic Cocktails while learning about prohibition and of course, drinking! Make your hazy trip to Charleston more historical through the lens of Cocktails. Hosted at a real speakeasy in the heart of Holy City. Book now for a boozy experience unlike anything else. *Must have a valid ID to participate*
Evening Haunted Ghost Tour
WE ARE OPEN YOU CAN BOOK DIRECT. GO TO www.scarycharleston.com or call: 843-343-9255 -TOUR DURATION: Hour and 15 minute *****HOT NEWS: Just proclaimed by "FROMMERS TRAVEL Guide" as "TOP seven ghosts tours in the nation. On your tour you will be taken to the top haunted locations in Charleston. Charleston is a beautiful city filled with many haunted houses. You will see beautiful old graveyards/ churches and historical buildings. You will also step away with a greater appreciation for spirits unable to pass to the other side. We carefully select the top haunted locations. These locations have been featured on the History Channel/ Discovery Channel/ Ghost Adventures. And the Travel Channel. And numerous periodicals. Their are several other tour companies in town. But we guarantee you will be escorted by a guide that has a unique PASSION for the macabre. If you want to be transported back in time. And walk the same streets as pirates and patriots, then this tour is for you. Please understand no dogs can be brought on the tour. -Guest's must be at least 12 years old. Tour is a walking tour, approximately 5 blocks. All flat surfaces. with frequent rest stops. ***** TOUR CAPACITY MAY EXCEDD 10 PEOPLE****
Badass Broads of Charleston
The Badass Broads tour is a two hour walk through the history of CHS with a special emphasis on eight of our badass women. We will visit a spot, discuss the historical importance of that spot, and connect it to one of the women from Charleston's history. You can't tell the story of the women without the history and you shouldn't tell the history without the story of the women.
Gullah Geechee Adventures
During this tour, Gullah Geechee Adventures, we will explore the complex history of rice in America and how Gullah Geechee people were able to develop a beautiful culture under the inhumane system of chattel slavery. The tour takes place at Riverfront Park Address: is 100 Navy Way, North Charleston, SC 29405. Landmarks we will explore * Big Pink House : Explore how Gullah Geechee culture developed on rice plantations and ways enslaved African chefs resisted slavery through cooking. *Oak Trees: Hoodoo Medicine: Gullah Herbal Remedies * Gullah Bible: Origin of Gullah Geechee Language * Mini "Forest" : How enslaved Africans created secret communities in the forest. *Cooper River (Mama Wata): water offering to heal the spirits of the dead, the spirits of the living (us) and also the water in general. You can bring fruit or flowers just be mindful there’s nothing harmful that will pollute the water. *Dead House: Explore the story behind the fingerprints on the bricks in Charleston, SC and how this structure got its name. *Libation*: Water will be poured for the names of individuals who were enslaved. Avoid the tourist trap and embark a Gullah Geechee Adventure with a Beenya Beenya: A Gullah Geechee word that means Gullah Geechee native. Translates to “been here” or from here Kumya: Opposite of Beenya, means a person is not from the area or “came here”.
Nennella Sailing on Charleston Harbor
Nennella Sailing offers year-round sunset and daytime charters on a classic 1964 Pearson Vanguard 32-foot sloop. Only about 400 of these yachts were built. Nennella is No. 109. When these boats were made, sailors navigated the seas using paper charts, sextants and the stars above. Step onto the boat—with her high bow and raised transom, full keel, original spruce boom and teak-lined cockpit—and get unstuck in time: you will be transported, literally and metaphorically, across the waters of Charleston Harbor and through the history of one of the most fascinating cities in the U.S. First settled in 1670, Charleston became the epicenter of rice production during the antebellum period, and the most significant port of entry in North America of the transatlantic slave trade. Here determined American Patriots defeated the mighty British Navy in the Battle of Sullivan's Island. Here the first shots of the Civil War rang out. In this harbor Robert Smalls commandeered the Confederate transport ship CSS Planter and piloted it and its enslaved passengers to freedom. Here the courageous 54th Massachusetts Volunteers fought the Second Battle of Fort Wagner. The history is rich, troubling, fascinating. Learn about it, as well as the details of contemporary life in Charleston, aboard the classic sailing yacht Nennella! (Ask about 2-boat tandem sails for parties of 8 or more.)

Things to do near French Quarter

Women and Wine Tour with Local Guides
*Before booking please read full notation below, please note this is an updated tour from some of the previous reviews and a focus on women’s history but the same quality guides and historians! The Women and Wine is a combined history and bar tour that will include two bar stops and historic sites in between. Led and designed by two locals Gia and Capt. Bryan the focus of this experience is on women who changed the scene politically, socially, and economically in this city of firsts with drink options along the way in the partner bar establishments. Start out by enjoying a glass of wine/beer/ or cocktail in a wine bar started by three women entrepreneurs and being introduced to women who were active in Prohibition era Charleston. From there guests will explore the historic district and several sites associated with influential women in awe inspiring tales of adversity and strength. Guests will finish the tour in the second bar establishment. While this experience is designed in part by women, and about women, it will be a unique adventure for guests of all backgrounds and the first of its kind being offered in Charleston. *This tour is not suitable for guests that may have difficulty walking or any mobility issues such as climbing stairs. 1.5 mile walk in between the bars *Rain or Shine unless otherwise noted * Must be 21+ years old *** Drink not included
Chicora History Walk
On our walk together, you’ll become part of a city with a rich and fascinating story to tell. From it’s wealth and opulence to the many disasters that fell upon it as well as its participation in the darkest parts of American history and humanity. Like any city with opportunity, people of great diversity came from near and far to participate in the building of one of the early melting pots in America. They built enduring structures; houses, churches, businesses and forts all with their own stories to tell. These streets and structures have been walked by presidents and foreign dignitaries, generals and soldiers, slaves and slave traders, and pirates and merchants. You will feel a part of the celebrations held for visiting presidents to the devastating fires, earth quake, hurricanes along with attacks by foreign invaders, pirates and eventually Union armies that were defended against.
Ghost Tour Charleston
Rare Insights into the Most Haunted Places in Charleston! A haunted history tour, locally owned & operated. The Holy City’s past is as intriguing as it is tragic. Fires, wars, witches, murder plots, mass graves, voodoo, poltergeists, and Boo-Hags are real elements of Lowcountry history. This tour will show you a dark, mystical side of Charleston that you may not expect. Follow a professional, historical tour-guide to locations that are as beautiful as they are haunted. This is a family-friendly, pet-friendly tour. A boutique tour experience. *Although this is a family-tour, the historical stories and folklore can be frightening and / or graphic. *We do not go inside any buildings or graveyards.
The Best Charleston History Tour-2pm
Explore Charleston's history with the largest Airbnb experience provider in South Carolina. This History Tour promises an unparalleled learning experience, delving into the city's evolution from modern-day Charleston to its intriguing origins. Discover mind-blowing facts about everything from Slavery to Santa Claus, all presented in a captivating story format. I tailor the tour to your interests, with discussions that lead you through Charleston's history with humor and sometimes irreverence. Starting at Waterfront Park, we spend the first part of the tour talking about how it all came to be, and the second part of the tour building on that foundation as we see the amazing sights of historic Charleston. The tour culminates near our starting point, leaving you not only with memories but also the proud new owners of the most valuable souvenir of your trip – knowledge. So come on y'all... this trip ain't gonna book itself :) LOL (Airbnb limit is 10 tickets, but exceptions are possible. Visit Chucktown Tours' website for direct bookings)
Secret Food Tours: Charleston
Our tour starts in front of the Port of Call Food + Brew Hall, where we'll kick off a delicious exploration of Charleston's vibrant food scene. Next, you'll dig into some South Carolina-style BBQ, believed to be the oldest barbeque in the world! As you continue the tour, you'll take a leisurely stroll through the Historic Charleston City Market and delve into the history of the African slave trade's impact on the local cuisine. Discover how classic ingredients such as benne seeds and collard greens were introduced to the local diet and have since become a staple of Lowcountry cuisine. Of course, no visit to the Lowcountry would be complete without sampling some of the freshest seafood our city offers! Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of handmade ice cream crafted from scratch using locally sourced ingredients from Lowcountry farmers, purveyors, and chefs. It's creamy, flavorful, and simply irresistible! As with all our tours, there's our delicious Secret Dish.

All activities near Charleston

The Best Charleston History Tour-10am
Explore Charleston's history with the largest Airbnb experience provider in South Carolina. This History Tour promises an unparalleled learning experience, delving into the city's evolution from modern-day Charleston to its intriguing origins. Discover mind-blowing facts about everything from Slavery to Santa Claus, all presented in a captivating story format. I tailor the tour to your interests, with discussions that lead you through Charleston's history with humor and sometimes irreverence. Starting at Waterfront Park, we spend the first part of the tour talking about how it all came to be, and the second part of the tour building on that foundation as we see the amazing sights of historic Charleston. The tour culminates near our starting point, leaving you not only with memories but also the proud new owners of the most valuable souvenir of your trip – knowledge. So come on y'all... this trip ain't gonna book itself :) LOL (Airbnb limit is 10 tickets, but exceptions are possible. Visit Chucktown Tours' website for direct bookings)
Badass Broads of Charleston
The Badass Broads tour is a two hour walk through the history of CHS with a special emphasis on eight of our badass women. We will visit a spot, discuss the historical importance of that spot, and connect it to one of the women from Charleston's history. You can't tell the story of the women without the history and you shouldn't tell the history without the story of the women.
History and Hops Tour-Bar & History Walk
Welcome to Charleston, well known as a drinking city with a slight history problem! With this in mind guests will meet at the initial bar location where one small snack will be served and guests will have the opportunity to purchase some local craft beer or cocktails while the guides (Adam or Bryan) go over a brief personal introduction and history of the City of Charleston. From there guests will walk to historic sites around the French Quarter including one of the oldest homes in Charleston. Brief stories and accurate historical insight from a licensed guide will cover a period stemming from the early colonial days all the way through World War II including topics on the revolutionary/civil war, pirate attacks, and of course alcohol in this famous city. This is not a typical "sit there and shut up tour" but rather an opportunity to engage with your licensed guide! Guests will be able to seek a brief respite at the next dive bar location and a particular focus will be given to the period of prohibition in Charleston as a city rife with bootleggers, speakeasies, and "Blind Tigers." The tour will finish at a stunningly beautiful local park in close proximity to other area bars and restaurants since many guests just don't want the history and hops tour to end! -***Drinks not included *** -One small snack at initial bar location -2 bars are visited along with historic sites
Dolphin/Morris Island Cruise/BYOB Intimate and Relaxing
We will enjoy a cruise through the salt marshes of one of Charleston’s most scenic rivers. We will visit Morris Island, an uninhabited barrier island. You will have a breathtaking view of the famous Morris Island Lighthouse. If you wish, you may take a leisurely stroll on the beach for some good photo opportunities. During our tour you will see a wide array of local wildlife including the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. Bring whatever you’d like to eat or drink. (BYOB)! This trip is great for a group of friends or the whole family. We are pet friendly!
Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy - Cocktail Class
*3 Cocktails & Snacks Included! - Tommy “Alchemy” Paul teaches the history of prohibition through Cocktails. 2 parts learning, to 3 parts drinking. This dynamic Cocktail class teaches you how to make prohibition era Classic Cocktails while learning about prohibition and of course, drinking! Make your hazy trip to Charleston more historical through the lens of Cocktails. Hosted at a real speakeasy in the heart of Holy City. Book now for a boozy experience unlike anything else. *Must have a valid ID to participate*

Your guide to Charleston

What are some of the best neighborhoods in Charleston?

Downtown, also known as the Peninsula, is packed with action: shopping, dining, events, and historic attractions. While it does attract out-of-town visitors with its historic mansions, ghost stories, horse-drawn carriages, and lively energy, it’s also where many locals hang out — with plenty of walkable neighborhoods offering their own spins on Lowcountry hospitality.

King Street

This part of the Historic District often gets pinned as the place to enjoy upscale shopping, but it’s also an extremely walkable (and beloved) part of the city to grab drinks, catch live music, and enjoy ​​some of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants. On Saturdays, don’t miss the Charleston Farmers Market for fresh fare and locally made arts and crafts.

Ansonborough

While not technically downtown, its close proximity to King Street, Marion Square, and the bustling City Market makes it easy to get to for those who want to enjoy the grandeur of the Historic District in a quieter setting. Beautiful homes are nestled between oak trees strewn with Spanish moss, and there are still plenty of places to grab a 5-star bite, or check out galleries and boutiques. It’s also where you can find lush gardens.

Harleston Village

Students, families, professors, and young professionals love this area, in part because it’s within walking distance to the College of Charleston. The 10-acre Colonial Lake Park is a favorite place to unwind, while the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art and Library Society (one of the first of its kind in the United States) are hot spots for exhibits and events.

Cannonborough/Elliotborough

While they are technically two neighborhoods, most residents would consider them one. This revitalized area of downtown is where to come for a glimpse into today’s Charleston: a place for classic Southern cooking and Victorian homes as much as new housing development, global cuisine, and thriving independent businesses.


What do locals recommend doing?

Spend the day on Folly Island

Locals and out-of-towners don’t mind sharing here, where you can take surfing lessons, a dolphin cruise, or just relax on Folly Beach.

Walk (or jog, or bike) the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

The iconic bridge that swoops over Cooper River is a favorite local spot for a walk, jog, or bike ride. The bridge spans about 2.5 miles, connecting Charleston to the nearby suburb of Mount Pleasant, where you’ll find fresh seafood, local dives, and fun fishing outings in the Shem Creek area.

Spend time in the West Ashley suburb

Head out to get some quintessential South Carolina barbecue, and stroll the neighborhoods of Avondale and River Terrace for gorgeous green spaces.


What are important historical landmarks in Charleston?

History is down every cobblestoned alley and extends to the rivers and marshes of this Lowcountry city founded in 1670. Here’s some of the most important historical things to do in Charleston.

Visit the Boroughs of Charleston

The Boroughs — Cannonborough/Elliotborough, Radcliffeborough, Ansonborough and Mazyk-Wraggborough — are home to important landmarks, including the Aiken-Rhett House Museum, that educate on what life was like here in the 18th and 19th centuries. Set to open in 2022, the International African American Museum sheds light on the history and ancestry of the African Americans of South Carolina (and beyond) with exhibits, a family center where people can trace their genealogy, and a memorial garden, among other innovative programs in Radcliffeborough.

Take a ferry to Fort Sumter

This is the site where the Civil War began, and a national historical park shrouded in significant American history best told by a park ranger, or a local historian as your guide. You can reach the monument via ferry at Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center in Charleston or Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant.

Experience the French Quarter

This area, and the neighboring South of Broad, host some of Charleston’s most known attractions such as Rainbow Row, the Battery, White Point Garden, historic mansions, and more. If it’s your first time in Charleston, a historic walking tour around here is an important and fascinating introduction to Charleston’s past. For an immersive experience, visit the Historic Charleston Supper Club. What do locals do in an area like this? Spend time with friends and family at Waterfront Park where kids splash in the fountains and residents relax in the grass. Each year, the Dock Street Theatre is a must for those attending the annual Spoleto Festival.