Steeped in history, charm, and coastal beauty, Charleston, South Carolina welcomes you with its cobblestone streets, colorful architecture, and warm Southern hospitality. It’s a city where centuries-old oaks draped in Spanish moss line the streets and the scent of saltwater lingers in the air. From iconic landmarks like Rainbow Row and the Battery to hidden alleys and bustling markets, Charleston effortlessly weaves the past and present into an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood by the harbor, exploring historic plantations, or simply strolling past pastel homes with blooming window boxes, Charleston feels like stepping into a storybook. It’s a place that captures your heart with every ocean breeze and sunset over the marshes — and leaves you already dreaming about your next visit.

Fun Facts About Charleston, SC:

Charleston was founded in 1670, making it one of the oldest cities in the United States.
It was originally called “Charles Towne” in honor of King Charles II of England.
The city is known as the “Holy City” because of its large number of historic churches and easily recognizable skyline of steeples.
Rainbow Row, a series of 13 colorful historic houses, is one of the most photographed spots in Charleston.
The first shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter, located in Charleston Harbor.
Charleston is home to one of America’s oldest public gardens — Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, founded in 1676.
Sweet tea, often called the “house wine of the South,” is said to have been popularized in the Charleston area.
The Charleston City Market, dating back to the 1790s, remains a bustling hub for local artisans and vendors.

Angel Tree

Just a short drive from downtown Charleston, the Angel Oak Tree stands as a breathtaking symbol of strength and endurance. Estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old, this massive Southern live oak stretches 65 feet high and shades an area of over 17,000 square feet with its sprawling, moss-draped branches. Some of its limbs are so large they actually rest on the ground. Visiting the Angel Oak feels almost otherworldly — like stepping into a fairytale — and serves as a powerful reminder of just how much history and beauty the Lowcountry holds.

Fort Sumter

One of the most memorable parts of our Charleston trip was visiting Fort Sumter with Hawkins. As a history lover, he was beyond excited to set foot on the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. The ferry ride across Charleston Harbor gave us beautiful views of the city skyline and a great chance to talk about what we were about to see. Once we arrived, you could feel the weight of history in the air — standing inside the brick walls, surrounded by cannons and crumbling fortifications, brought his textbook knowledge to life in the best way possible.

Fun Facts About Fort Sumter:

The first shots of the Civil War were fired here on April 12, 1861, when Confederate forces opened fire on Union troops.
The fort is built on an artificial island, constructed using 70,000 tons of granite.
It took over 20 years to complete the fort, but it was still unfinished when the war began.
The American flag flying above Fort Sumter today is changed regularly — and you can help fold it during the daily ceremony if you’re lucky.
Despite the heavy bombardment, no soldiers died during the initial attack on Fort Sumter.
The fort was named after General Thomas Sumter, a Revolutionary War hero nicknamed the “Fighting Gamecock.”

Watching Hawkins soak it all in — asking questions, taking photos, and imagining what life would’ve been like for the soldiers stationed there — was one of those moments you hope he remembers forever. Fort Sumter didn’t just make history real for him; it made it personal.

Shem Creek

Shem Creek ended up being one of our favorite little detours just outside of Charleston. We grabbed dessert at Vickery’s — key lime pie for me and molten chocolate cake for Hawkins — and soaked in the waterfront views from the patio. As we walked along the docks, we were treated to an unexpected show: a group of dolphins jumping and playing right by the boats. The salty breeze, the peaceful marsh, and that sweet treat in hand made it one of those simple, perfect moments we’ll always remember.

Historic Charleston Sightseeing Tour

Our walking tour through historic Charleston was like stepping into a living storybook. With every step along the cobblestone streets, we uncovered layers of history, from colonial beginnings to Civil War landmarks and Gullah culture. Guided by a local expert full of stories and Southern charm, we wandered past pastel-colored homes, iron gates, and secret alleyways — each with its own tale to tell.

We passed iconic spots like Rainbow Row, the Four Corners of Law, and St. Michael’s Church, learning how Charleston earned the nickname “The Holy City” thanks to its skyline dotted with church steeples. Our guide brought the past to life, pointing out earthquake bolts, hidden courtyards, and architectural quirks that we would’ve easily missed on our own. It wasn’t just educational — it was genuinely fascinating, even for the kids! Charleston’s charm is in the details, and this walking tour helped us slow down and really see them.

The Williams Mansion in Charleston, SC, is the city's largest single-family residence, built in 1878 by George Walton Williams after his travels through Europe and Asia. Featuring 35 rooms, 23 fireplaces, and a 75-foot-high domed ceiling, it reflects the opulence of the Gilded Age. Once misnamed the Calhoun Mansion, it has since been restored to honor its original heritage and is open for public tours.
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City Market

No visit to Charleston is complete without a stroll through the Charleston City Market, a vibrant hub of history, culture, and craftsmanship nestled in the heart of the city. Established in the early 1800s, this historic market spans four city blocks and is home to over 300 local vendors offering everything from handcrafted sweetgrass baskets—a cherished Gullah tradition—to unique Lowcountry art, jewelry, and gourmet treats. As you wander through the open-air sheds and the enclosed Great Hall, the market’s lively atmosphere and rich heritage come alive, making it a must-see destination for anyone eager to experience the authentic spirit of Charleston.

Magnolia Plantation

Our visit to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens in Charleston was a blend of natural beauty and deep historical reflection. The Nature Train Tour took us through the plantation’s diverse landscapes—wetlands, forests, marshes, and swamps. As we rode, our guide shared insights about the native plants and animals of the Lowcountry, as well as the plantation’s history of rice cultivation and phosphate mining. We spotted herons, turtles, and even a few alligators basking in the sun. The serene ride under the canopy of ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss was both educational and calming.

Equally impactful was the “From Slavery to Freedom” Tour. We visited four restored slave cabins, each representing different periods from the 1850s through the 20th century. The tour provided a poignant look into the lives of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked on the plantation, highlighting their resilience and contributions. The cabins, preserved with care, offered a tangible connection to the past, making the history deeply personal and moving.

Magnolia Plantation offers a comprehensive experience that intertwines the natural splendor of the Lowcountry with its complex history. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or someone seeking a meaningful journey, this plantation provides a space for reflection, learning, and appreciation of both beauty and resilience.

Folly Beach

We spent a perfect 75°F spring day at Folly Beach, and it was everything a family beach day should be. The kids ran straight into the waves, their laughter mixing with the sound of the surf as they built sandcastles and chased each other along the shoreline. The gentle breeze and warm sun made it comfortable for everyone, and the beach wasn’t too crowded, allowing us to relax and enjoy the scenery. We even spotted a few dolphins playing in the distance, which was a delightful surprise for the kids.

Shoutout to Hawkins for stepping up big time — hauling all the beach gear without being asked, with a smile on his face. Watching him grow into a kind, capable young man makes me so proud to be his mom. Grateful for the heart he’s showing and the man he’s becoming.

Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row is one of Charleston’s most famous landmarks — a series of 13 colorful historic homes along East Bay Street. Built in the mid-1700s, these buildings originally served as shops with living quarters above. After the Civil War, the area fell into disrepair until the 1930s, when restoration efforts began. Dorothy Porcher Legge famously repainted her home a pastel color, inspiring others to do the same. Today, Rainbow Row’s bright, cheerful colors and rich history make it one of the most photographed spots in Charleston.

Fleet Landing

Fleet Landing is a waterfront favorite in Charleston, set in a restored 1940s naval building with gorgeous harbor views. We enjoyed fabulous food, especially the blackened flounder and the fresh crab dishes. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back meal with unbeatable scenery.

Some of our favorite hidden gems in Charleston!

Pineapple Fountain – Waterfront Park
A symbol of Southern hospitality and a Charleston icon. It’s especially magical at golden hour or twilight with the water reflections.

Chalmers Street
Cobblestone charm meets ivy-covered walls—easily one of the most picturesque streets in the city.

Tradd Street
Vibrant doors, overflowing flower boxes, and flickering gas lamps—this walk feels like stepping into a storybook.

St. Philip’s Church & Church Street
Stunning historic architecture wrapped in moss-draped trees—pure Southern Gothic charm.

Philadelphia Alley
Tucked away between buildings, this quiet, gas-lit alleyway is moody, romantic, and full of character.

Where we stayed

James Island County Park Campground easily earned a spot in our top 5 favorite campgrounds. It had everything we love — spacious, shaded sites, full hookups, and tons of room to explore. Hawkins especially loved biking the trails around the ponds, and we all spent way too much time playing the oversized outdoor checkers game near the playground. The peaceful setting made it easy to unwind, and yet we were just a short drive from all the action in downtown Charleston. It was the perfect mix of nature, fun, and convenience — and we’d go back in a heartbeat.

Charleston, South Carolina, swept us off our feet with its timeless beauty, rich history, and Southern charm around every corner. From cobblestone streets and pastel row houses to moss-draped oaks and stunning waterfront views, every moment felt like stepping into a living postcard. Whether exploring centuries-old landmarks or savoring local bites, Charleston offered something special for each of us—and left us already dreaming about our next visit.

Charleston, SC