Top Things To See in Charleston, SC | The Must-Visit List

Charleston, the oldest and the second-largest city in the U.S. State of South Carolina, is located on Charleston Harbor, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean formed by the meeting of the Ashley and Coopers Rivers, or, as the locals say, “where the Cooper and Ashley Rivers come together to form the Atlantic Ocean.”

As the legend says, this Holy City has a celebrated past. If you wish to bask in Southern goodness and breathe the atmosphere of the old South, then Charleston is just your perfect destination. It’s the incredible rich history, culture and well-preserved architecture that attracts more and more visitors very year and makes the city as one of the top travel destinations in the United States. Charleston is home to many amazing and breathtaking landmarks that are worth visiting while you’re in and around the Lowcountry. Here are a few favorites,

Isle of Palms

Located just 12 miles from downtown Charleston and just a 30-minute drive away, Isle of Palms offers non-stop enjoyment with its beautiful beaches, golf, tennis, fishing, swimming, sunbathing and much more. The magnificent stretch of beach on Isle of Palms is amazingly picturesque and photogenic; so don’t forget to bring your camera with you.

Ravenel Bridge

Walk till the top of the Wander’s Way, a 2-mile bike/pedestrian lane in The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge for a bird’s eye view of Charleston. It is accessible from East Bay Street in downtown Charleston and on the Mount Pleasant side. The bridge is home to the annual USA Track & Field 10,000 meter (6.2 mi) Cooper River Bridge Run on the first weekend of April. This event attracts up to around 50000 people.

Charleston City Market

This historic market complex is a great glimpse into life in the Old South. The market is always lively with residents and visitors, perusing stalls loaded with toys, clothes, leather goods and souvenirs. But if you plan on buying anything here, just walk straight to the “basket ladies”; The hand weaved baskets they sell are really tempting!! Although this is a great place to experience Southern charm, the locals recommend to be beware of the overpriced trinkets.

Sullivan’s Island Beach & Fort Moultrie

Just 10 miles away from the Charleston downtown area— Sullivan’s Island swagger serene beaches and a colorful history. Fort Moultrie was the first fort on Sullivan’s Island and withstood a nine-hour battle in 1776 when nine warships were advancing on Charleston. It now preserves an array of fortifications ranging from the original brick walls of the 1809 fort to concrete batteries and observation posts used through World War II.

Fort Sumter

Notable for two battles of the American Civil War, this sea fort is a must-see if you’re a historic buff. Ferries to the monument depart from the Liberty Square Visitors Center and from Patriot’s Point, which is just opposite of the harbor in USS Yorktown State Park. Parking is available at both the departure points.