Downtown Charleston Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Downtown Charleston
Popular places to visit
College of Charleston
Named by Travel + Leisure as “America's Most Beautiful College Campus” in 2017, this South Carolina institution is engaging for visitors and beloved by students.
Medical University of South Carolina
Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Medical University of South Carolina during your travels in Charleston. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its lively bars.
Charleston City Market
Purchase food, jewelry and handicrafts in the market and learn about local tradition, the Civil War and slavery at its museum.
South Carolina Aquarium
See an array of aquatic creatures, including an albino alligator, in underwater habitats ranging from salt marshes to coastal plains.
Waterfront Park
Stroll the city’s waterfront esplanades at sunset, when the afternoon sun begins to dip and the harbor is lit with soft colors.
Rainbow Row
Find out about the history of Charleston with a stop at Rainbow Row. Make time for the stunning cathedral and local tours in this walkable area.
Activities
Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket
Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry
Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise
Old Town Trolley Tour of Charleston
Charleston Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Explore Historic Charleston
Charleston Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse
Our pick of the best Downtown Charleston Hotel Deals
The Ryder Hotel
"Great vibe and unbeatable location at the Ryder Hotel. We originally hoped to switch our king room to a double but were told the hotel was sold out. At check-in, the gentleman at the front desk let us know he had already placed a rollaway bed in our room for us — a great touch and much appreciated! ..."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
The Francis Marion Hotel
"Simply elegant. Treat yourself to a stay. At the very least, eat a meal at the Swamp Fox and enjoy the she-crab soup and shrimp & grits for me."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Emeline
"in our room , every detail is top of the range and the restaurants and common areas are super. the front desk staff, especially Tania the head of staff, were extremely helpful in dealing with a particular matter we needed resolved . way beyond the normal assistance xx"
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
The Charleston Place
"There were so many highlights with our stay. We were upgraded to a room with a balcony, which we found delightful. Our room was newly renovated and beautiful. Very comfortable bed and immaculately clean bathroom. Housekeeping was exceptional. Breakfast in the Palmetto Room was an outstanding start ..."
Reviewed on 26 May 2026
The Vendue
"The location of this property was the best … 1 block from water. Very artsy and unique setting! Walkable all over downtown . Many shops and restaurants very close! We would definitely stay here again!!"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hotel Bennett
"This was by far the nicest hotel we have stayed at. The staff was attentive and helpful. The room was beautiful and super clean. The food at the different restaurants was delicious. Would highly recommend."
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Charleston
King Street
If you're spending some time in King Street, Marion Square and Charleston Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.
Radcliffeborough
While Radcliffeborough may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Music Farm and Charleston Music Hall.
Harleston Village
While visiting Harleston Village, you might make a stop by sights like Marion Square and The Riviera Theater.
Cannonborough Elliotborough
If you're spending some time in Cannonborough Elliotborough, Upper King Design District and Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum are top sights worth seeing.
Charleston Historic District
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Charleston City Market to Shops at Charleston Place – discover Charleston Historic District, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Ansonborough
If you're spending some time in Ansonborough, South Carolina Aquarium and International African American Museum are top sights worth seeing.
