Best Charleston Tours & Experiences: My Favorite Things to Do
One of my favorite things about Charleston, South Carolina, is how much there is to explore beyond the restaurants, shopping, and beautiful historic streets!
From discovering the city’s fascinating history to enjoying the waterfront and exploring gorgeous Lowcountry gardens, Charleston offers some wonderful experiences for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike.
I’ve spent time exploring Charleston and its surrounding areas, and these are some of the tours and activities I’d recommend adding to your itinerary.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a weekend with friends, or your first visit to the Holy City, here are some of my favorite ways to experience Charleston!
Historic Charleston Carriage Tour – A Classic Charleston Experience
Is there anything more quintessentially Charleston than riding through the historic streets in a horse-drawn carriage? It’s one of those traditional experiences that I think everyone should try at least once!
What I love about a carriage tour is that you get to sit back, relax, and take in so much of Charleston’s beautiful architecture and historic charm. It’s a wonderful way to see some of the city’s famous sights without having to walk everywhere.
But it’s more than just a scenic ride! Your guide shares stories about Charleston’s fascinating history, giving you a better appreciation for the buildings, neighborhoods, and landmarks you’re passing along the way.
For first-time visitors especially, I think a carriage tour is a fun way to get acquainted with the city before heading out to explore more on your own.
My personal tip: I’d recommend doing a carriage tour early in your Charleston visit. It’s a great introduction to the city and might help you discover a few places you’ll want to return to later!
Charleston Ghost Tour – Haunted History After Dark
Charleston is a city filled with history, but some of its most fascinating stories are also its spookiest!
One of my favorite ways to experience Charleston after dark is on a ghost tour. There’s something about walking through the historic streets, exploring old graveyards, and listening to tales of the city’s haunted past that makes the experience so memorable.
What I especially love is hearing the ghost stories and local legends that have been passed down through generations. Some of the stories I’ve heard on these tours have stayed with me for years!
Whether you believe in ghosts or just enjoy a good spooky story, a Charleston ghost tour is a fun way to learn about another side of the city’s history.
My personal tip: Save this experience for after dinner. Walking through historic Charleston at night adds to the atmosphere and makes those haunted stories even more entertaining!
Fort Sumter Tour – Civil War History & Beautiful Harbor Views
If you enjoy history, visiting Fort Sumter is an experience I’d highly recommend adding to your Charleston itinerary!
This was a fantastic tour for learning more about the Civil War and the important role Charleston played in American history. Fort Sumter is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, and visiting the historic site brings that history to life in a way that reading about it simply can’t.
Another thing I really enjoyed was the boat ride through Charleston Harbor. The views from the water were lovely, and it was wonderful to see Charleston’s beautiful waterfront and skyline from a different perspective.
I love experiences that combine sightseeing with learning something new, and Fort Sumter definitely delivered on both!
My personal tip: Bring your camera! The harbor views are beautiful, and the boat ride is part of what makes this experience so memorable.
Charleston Food Tour – Discover the City’s Hidden Culinary Gems
Did you know Charleston is a true foodie town? Beyond its beautiful historic streets and Southern charm, Charleston has an incredible culinary scene that’s absolutely worth exploring!
One of the most enjoyable ways to experience it is through a guided food tour. I especially loved discovering those hidden little spots that you might otherwise walk right past without realizing what you’re missing.
There’s something so fun about wandering through Charleston, stopping at different eateries, and discovering the flavors and stories that make the city’s food scene so special.
What makes a food tour such a great experience is that you’re not just enjoying delicious food. You’re also getting a chance to discover local favorites, learn a little about Charleston’s culinary traditions, and find places you might want to return to later in your trip.
My personal tip: Schedule your food tour early in your visit! It’s a great way to discover restaurants and hidden gems you may want to revisit before heading home.
Which Charleston Tour Should You Choose?
Can’t decide which Charleston experience to book? Here’s how I’d choose!
- For first-time visitors: A horse-drawn carriage tour is a wonderful introduction to Charleston’s historic charm.
- For a fun evening: A ghost tour brings the city’s spooky legends and haunted history to life.
- For history lovers: Fort Sumter combines fascinating Civil War history with beautiful views of Charleston Harbor.
- For foodies: A guided food tour is a delicious way to discover Charleston’s culinary scene and hidden local gems.
My recommendation? If you have time, choose at least two! Pair a daytime historical experience with a ghost tour or food tour for a wonderful mix of Charleston’s history, culture, and fun.