Since Summer is quickly approaching and many new faces will be showing up around Charleston, let's take a look at the top tourist activities around here. Charleston, S.C. has been named the number one tourist destination in the USA for three years in a row. It has even been referred to as a "bucket list city." So let's take a look at what should be on your list of things to do if you are a tourist stopping through.
1. Walk or run the Cooper River Bridge.
The Cooper River Bridge is a signature landmark in Charleston. You will most likely have to drive over it at some point, but be sure to walk or run over it, as well. It is pretty much the only incline you will find here in the low country.
2. Paddle boarding or kayaking on Shem Creek.
Where else can you paddle board and kayak along the beautiful coastline of Charleston, passing the Cooper River Bridge and historical parts of Charleston? If you are lucky, you might even end up with a few dolphins swimming along beside you.
3. Carriage tours around Historic Downtown Charleston.
The ultimate tourist experience. If you don't know your way around Charleston, you can have an expert show you the ropes and make sure you don't miss anything. Or better yet, if you are trying to impress that special someone, go the extra mile and opt out of the group tours for a little added romance.
4. Strolling through the Slave Market.
After a carriage ride, you might want to stop for a walk through the historic slave market. There are vendors bargaining their goods, children selling sweet grass flowers, and an endless supply of souvenirs to choose from.
5. The Battery.
The battery is the perfect place for engagement pictures, a glimpse into Charleston history, a walk with your dog, an ideal picnic spot, the perfect trees to set up an Eno, and so much more. Be sure to stop by, if you have the chance.
6. Water Front Park.
Water Front Park isn't too far from the Battery. It is the home of the famous Pineapple fountain. The fountains are open for children (and even adults) to play in on hot days. There is also a pier that overlooks the Cooper River Bridge, and it is open for fishing.
7. RiverDogs game at the Joseph P. Riley Stadium, a.k.a. "The Joe."
If you're in Charleston during the RiverDogs season, be sure to stop by a baseball game. They even have a fireworks show after most night games.
8. Shopping on King Street.
Let's face it, the real reason most girls want to come to downtown Charleston is for the shopping. King Street is lined with stores ranging anywhere from Anthropologie and J. Crew, to local boutiques. You are sure to find something if you make your way along King.
9. Fine dining experience.
Pretty much any restaurant you find in Downtown Charleston and the surrounding areas is top notch. Food is definitely one of the reasons Charleston has the high reviews that it does. Be sure to use one of your favorite restaurant apps to find a restaurant that will suit your taste. Upper King Street and the surrounding areas is a great place to start. Hyman's, Halls Chophouse, and anywhere with a rooftop would be my suggestion.
10. Reenact your favorite movie scenes.
Charleston has been a popular location for movies to be filmed. If you have a favorite scene, be sure to grab a camera and reenact it. It can also be fun to explore and find all of the locations for scenes from some of your favorite movies. Movies that have been filmed in Charleston include The Notebook, The Patriot, Dear John, and many more (the movie theater scene from The Notebook was filmed on King Street).
11. Beaches.
Last, but clearly not least, be sure to make your way to one of the beaches that surrounds Downtown Charleston. You have the choice of Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, or Folly. Isle of Palms is great family friendly and great for tourists. Sullivan's island is typically the preference for the locals, and Folly seems to be popular among the teens and college students.
While there is an endless list of activities that everyone should experience in Charleston, this is a basic place to start. So if you are planning a trip to Charleston, or if you already live here and have friends coming to visit, be sure to include as many of these activities as possible.
