Top Attractions in Charleston

The Governor's House Inn

South Carolina Governor Edward Rutledge was the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence. He lived with his wife at this house on Broad Street, which has since become a National Landmark. Built around 1760, the building houses the quintessential bed and breakfast in Charleston. Innkeepers Karen Spell Shaw and Robert Hill Shaw are continuing three generations of lodging excellence. The Governor's House Inn is located in Charleston's historic downtown just a short stroll away from many of the city's attractions.

Middleton Place

This 18th century plantation is home to the oldest landscaped gardens in America. Known for beautiful geometry and symmetry, the gardens run along the West bank of the Ashley River. On these magnificent grounds is the House Museum, once home to Arthur Middleton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The house, filled with period antiques, has survived both fire and earthquake. Guided tours given on the half hour.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

In existence since 1676, this plantation is a journey back through time. Walking along a numbered path, you will find many beautiful cypress and live oak trees along the river. The Barbados Tropical Garden, Biblical Garden, and Horticultural Maze offer a variety of landscaping styles. Don't forget to keep an eye out for wildlife. Several slave cabins and worker homes still stand on the property, and free talks are given at various times. Tickets are also available for purchase for entry to the Plantation House, the Nature Train, the Nature Boat, and Audubon Swamp Garden; all include a guided tour. For those who ride bicycles, several trails wind through the woods. Plan to spend several hours at this fascinating plantation. See their website for further information.

South Carolina Aquarium

Just entering this museum is a delight; the structure itself extends out over Charleston Harbor and as guests draw near the entrance, they enter beneath a beautiful stained glass wall. Entering the Great Hall, the centerpiece is the breathtaking Carolina Seas Exhibit. Spend the day walking through a mountain ravine, exploring the rivers of the Piedmont region, visiting with swamp dwellers, and marveling at the 300,000-gallon Great Ocean Exhibit. Prices and hours vary; check the website for details.

Charleston's Pirates & Buccaneers

This excursion is presented by The Original Charleston Walks and takes you on a guided tour of The Walled City, Pirate Tavern, and more. In your imagination, you will travel back in time to 1718 when Charleston regularly battled the French, Spanish, and Native Americans. Now the city must face another terror from the sea. The tour departs daily at 1:30pm from 45 South Market Street (Market and State Streets) and includes admission into the Old Provost Dungeon. Reservations are required. Check the website for further information.

The Historic Homes Walk

Charleston is known for its amazing architecture that blends an early American influence with more than a little English style. Many of these well-preserved homes date back to the mid-eighteenth century. As you leisurely stroll the 1.5 miles down Charleston's avenues, your guide will regale you with stories of the people and events that helped give these historic structures their unique character. Tours depart from 45 South Market Street Tuesday through Saturday at 10:30am & 1:30pm, and Sunday and Monday at 1:30pm. Adult prices are USD 29.50, children 8-14 USD22.50. Check the website for further details.

The Citadel Archives & Museum

Located on The Citadel Military College campus, home to the historic Lords of Discipline, this museum covers the history of The Military College of South Carolina and Corps of Cadets from its founding in 1842 to present day. Presented in chronological order, the exhibits include photographs, documents, cadet uniforms and arms. Citadel rings from 1895 to the present make an impressive display in the foyer, accompanied by photographs of Citadel men who lost their lives in war. Archive documents include letters, diaries, reports, photographs, films and videotapes. The entrance to the museum is located on the south side of the Daniel Library building. Admission is free.

Spirit of Carolina Dinner Cruise

Depart from Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum aboard the Spirit of Carolina for a magnificent three-hour dinner tour of Charleston Harbor. Look out at Rainbow Row during sunset as you enjoy the beautiful, climate-controlled dining salons and open observation decks of this well-equipped yacht. A three-course meal, cooked to order, live music, and dancing await you for an evening not soon to be forgotten. Prices: Sunday through Thursday USD46.38, Friday & Saturday USD51.38. Patrons board at 6:30p, leave the dock at 7:00p, and return at 10:00p. Check the website for further details.

Nathaniel Russell House

In the early 1800s, the Nathaniel Russell House, a neoclassic dwelling, was the home of Nathaniel and Sarah Russell. The marriage of the Russells resulted in the merging of two great merchant families who made a fortune peddling rice and indigo. The interior of the home can only be described as graceful; intricate plasterwork, uniquely designed rooms, and a breathtaking free-flying staircase are just a few of the architectural highlights. Much of the art displayed around the home is of Charleston origin, and each room is decorated in fine turn-of-the-century style. Admission prices are USD10.

Classic Carriage Tours

An old custom thrives in Charleston as you tour the city in a horse-drawn carriage. Classic Carriage Tours offers guided tours in carriages drawn by award-winning Percheron Draft Horses. Horse-drawn transportation is a tradition in Charleston that the owners of Classic Carriage Tours make every effort to maintain as authentically as possible. One-hour, private, group, wedding and other special occasion tours are offered.