driving tours in charleston sc

The Southeastern Spine Institute

A Driving Tour of Charleston, SC A Driving Tour of Charleston, SC

More than seven million people visit Charleston, South Carolina at its historic locale in a given year. There are many things that make this small city so beloved by travelers. Its lovingly preserved architecture and lush waterfronts often draw vacationers, but the city’s adaptability to personal needs is what keeps people coming back.

No matter what brings you to Charleston, there are going to be days when you prefer to see the sights from the comfort of a vehicle. Tour Charleston in the comfort of your car, whether you’re:

• Waiting for a procedure at the Southeastern Spine Institute and Ambulatory Surgery Center (SSI)
• Recovering from an outpatient surgery
• Concerned about social distancing
• Worried about inclement weather

Bus Tours of Charleston

It’s a breeze to tour Charleston without having to put undue stress on your spine, expose yourself to unwanted germs or visit the sites without having to walk for miles. Find something catered to your specific tastes in sightseeing or look to go with the flow of a more general downtown excursion. Charleston’s bus tour offerings can help you craft a perfect, personalized visit for you and your guests. You can find something special even if you want to head out in the company of others.

There is something for everyone and tours for all tastes. Bus tour options in Charleston include:

• Charleston Harbor Tours offers a variety of motorized sightseeing options designed for groups big and small. Explore Charleston’s most awe-inspiring locations on the 1.5-hour “See It All City Tour.” This bus trip not only drives by some of the city’s oldest preserved architecture, but it also takes you through The Old City Market, the historic Charleston promenade, The Battery and many stunning attractions. Charleston has sights you won’t find anywhere else.
• Crafted Travel Charleston  is the luxury traveler’s way to get a taste of the Holy City. This tour company offers chauffeured driving tours led by certified guides who are lifelong Charlestonians. With their assortment of brewery, winery and restaurant tours, your spirit and stomach will be satisfied after you tour Charleston in style.

Self-Guided Tours of Charleston

A self-guided tour is the ideal way to see the city’s breathtaking sights at your own pace. The freedom of your own vehicle lets you tour Charleston the way you want without having to worry about exhaustion, awkward tour group interactions or pesky weather issues. Do some research ahead of time and then design a basic itinerary to take away any pre-trip anxieties and streamline your day.

The Historic Charleston Foundation  has designed their own app for the tourist like you who wants to see the city on your own terms. With a focus on storytelling through architectural preservation, the City Guide app has more than 300 text stops and 30 audio stops designed to paint the picture of past and present Charleston.

While a self-guided tour might seem daunting at first, the ability to edit your schedule, be spontaneous and let the history of the city envelope you has its benefits. The expansive guide provided by the app helps you tour Charleston while being able to choose on the fly which destinations you want to see by car. Have fun!

Enter OWC25 to get $3.50/person for Old Walled City Walking Tour and CGT25  for Charleston Ghost Tour

Private Historic Charleston Driving Tours

Charleston history tour.

Welcome to Old Walled City Tours , where we offer a blend of exploration options to suit every adventurer. Experience the charm of Charleston, SC, with our comprehensive driving tour. This unique adventure allows you to cover more ground while savoring the city’s rich history and picturesque sights.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, our Charleston historic walking tour offers an intimate exploration of the city’s cobblestone streets and hidden gems. Our expert guides breathe life into the past, narrating the captivating stories that have shaped Charleston into its vibrant city today.

With our driving tours in Charleston, you can see the city’s beauty from a new perspective. Whether you stroll through history or cruise through the streets, Old Walled City Tours promises an unforgettable adventure. Book your tour today, and let us be your gateway to the heart of Charleston.

QUICK DETAILS

Availabilities: Daily

Duration: 2 Hours

Inclusions: Driving tour, water, and snacks

Tour Charleston With Luxury Transportation!

Meeting point.

We pick you up at your home or hotel within 5 miles of Downtown Charleston. Exact meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.

DRIVING TOURS IN CHARLESTON, SC

Experience charleston by driving tour.

Charleston, South Carolina offers so many great ways to explore it’s beautiful city and one of our favorite ways is through one of their personal chauffeur driving tours. There are many Charleston driving tours to choose from and a variety of types including, history tours, plantation tours, distillery tours, beer tours, and more! Whether you’re visiting the city solo, with a partner, or with a group, you’re sure to find a driving tour that will be the highlight of your trip to Charleston. Book your Charleston driving tour today!

results result

No Tours found.

• Tags Driving
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Private Historic Charleston Driving Tour

Crafted charleston tours.

Welcome to Crafted Travel’s 2 Hour Exclusive Historic Driving Tour. Let us cruise while you relax in our luxury vehicles, and leave the rest to your Private Certified Charleston Tour Guide.

• Hour Glass 5 hours

Private Boone Hall Plantation Tour

Tour Charleston’s only working plantation open to the public for a 5 hr Private Tour with your own personal tour guide for the most intimate setting with your friends, family, or significant other.

Private Magnolia Plantation Tour

Enjoy a 5 Hour Magnolia Plantation Private Tour around the oldest privately owned gardens in America. Immerse yourself in thousands of exotic flowers and plants as your private guide shows you hidden gems.

• Hour Glass 4.5 hours

Private Bourbon, Beer & BBQ Tour

Hop on in one of our luxury vehicles with beer for a scenic drive through The Battery for pictures then visit 1 Charleston Brewery and 1 Distillery to pregame before your local meal.

• Hour Glass 4 hours

Private Distillery & Brewery Tour

Join us to Booze ‘n Cruise to 3 different sites and drink in Charleston.

Private Sippin’ Wadmalaw Island – Winery, Distillery, and Brewery Tour

This All-Inclusive scenic Lowcountry drinking tour is NOT FOR LIGHTWEIGHTS!!! First you will stop at the majestic Angel Oak Tree for pictures.

• Tags Carriage , Driving
• Hour Glass 1 hour

Group Carriage Tours

Carolina polo and carriage tour company.

Experience Charleston’s Downtown Historic District by carriage. Take a relaxing 1 hour fully narrated group tour through the quaint and charming streets of downtown Charleston.

Vis-a-Vis Private Tour

Experience Charleston’s beauty and charm in one of our intimate vis-à-vis carriages. The term is French for “face-to-face” and refers to the seating position of the guests in the carriage.

Large Group Private Tour

Take a private tour with your family, friends or business associates. Carolina Polo and Carriage Company has the capacity and training to specialize in groups of all sizes.

• Ax Throwing Booze & BBQ Tour
• Bourbon Beer & BBQ
• Brewery/Distillery Tour
• Sippin' Tour
• Tea Plantation & Winery Tour
• Charleston Food & Wine Tour

Magnolia Gardens Tour

• Boone Hall Plantation Tours
• Middleton Place Plantation Tour
• Historic Charleston Driving Tour
• Charleston Walking Tours
• Waiver and Release Form
• Privacy Policy

Historic Charleston Tours

Charleston Walking Tours

Join us along with the President of the Charleston Tour Association, Al Ray for a tour of Charleston you won't forget. Al Ray is a truly unique Charleston legend who can make the history of Charleston come alive as you enjoy the sites of the lowcountry.

Book Now Read More

Charleston Driving Tours

See Charleston in style and comfort with our 2 Hour Exlusive Historic Driving Tour. Relax in one of our luxury vehicles as your learn the local history with your Private Certified Charleston Tour Guide. We invite you to enjoy the history of Charleston in style.

Enjoy a 4 hr tour of America's oldest privately owned gardens with chauffeured limo service and a personal expert tour guide. See the hidden gems of this botanical wonder immersed in thousands of exotic flowers and plants.

Middleton Plantation Tour

Visit America's oldest landscaped gardends that has survived a revolution, a civil war, and an earthquake. See one of the most beautiful places in America with your own certified expert tour guide and enjoy the rich past of this National Historic Landmark.

Boone Hall Plantation Tour

Come enjoy a 4 hr private tour of Charleston's only working plantation open to the public. See America's most photographed plantation with your own personal tour guide, we guarantee you won't be disappointed with this historic tour.

Enjoy some of the best Charleston sightseeing tours the lowcountry has to offer.

There are so many historic landmarks, plantations, distillerys, brewerys and more to visit in the Charleston, SC area.

Take a look below at some of our   Historic Charleston Tours ,   Plantation Tours   and   Distillery Tours . We guarantee you will have an amazing time and there is something for everyone

Scenic drives in Charleston, SC

• Copy Link copied

Explore Botany Bay Plantation. | Photo by @bkussardphoto

Charleston is known for its Southern landscapes and waterfront views, and what better way to enjoy them than on a scenic drive. We rounded up six local roads great for cruising down year-round that will make you fall in love with the Lowcountry all over again.

🚗 Botany Bay Road is located on Edisto Island and runs along Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve Wildlife Management Area. This picturesque path features a lush green tree tunnel. Visitors are welcome between sunrise + sunset. Heads up: The site is closed on Tuesdays.

🚗 Murray Boulevard runs along the Ashley River in downtown Charleston. If you love waterfront views, this one’s for you . We think this palmetto tree-lined road is perfect for a sunset drive. Bonus: Spot White Point Garden along the way.

🚗 Boone Hall Avenue of the Oaks winds through Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens in Mt. Pleasant. Discover this scenic avenue draped with Spanish moss made up of live oaks planted in 1743. Tickets are available online for Boone Hall.

🚗 Old Sheldon Church Road in Beaufort County features a historical landmark: The Old Sheldon Church Ruins . Originally built in the mid-1700s, the church is said to have been damaged by fires. Heads up: Visitors can view this site from outside of the gate.

🚗 Bohicket Road is found on Johns Island along Bohicket Creek and features postcard-worthy views of Lowcountry foliage. Stop by the 500-year-old Angel Oak , then drive to Salty Dog Cafe Seabrook to enjoy seafood by the water.

🚗 Coffin Point Avenue of Oaks on St. Helena Island is considered one of the most beautiful roads in Beaufort County. Visit the nearby Camelot Farms Equestrian Center where you can ride horses beneath the towering trees.

Grab a road trip buddy and go for a drive through the Lowcountry. Snap photos and make some memories.

This site uses cookies. Opt out at any time. More details

Home › Things To Do › Minibus Tours

Minibus & Driving Tours Of Charleston

The City of Charleston doesn’t allow sightseeing trolley tours downtown, but several narrated minibus tours are offered as an alternative way to get an overview of Charleston’s history and major sights.

These tours are a popular activity with visitors to Charleston, and there will usually be dozens of departures daily, available at a time to suit you. Many tours begin right at the Visitors Center, with tickets available for purchase whenever you wish to take your tour.

A minibus tour is best taken at the beginning of your stay. Once you have acquired a better sense of the city and its history, you can explore by yourself, or take a more detailed tour of some other aspect of Charleston’s past, such as its African-American history, ghost and pirate history, or the city’s architecture.

Exclusively Charleston

From $125 per hour for 2 people Private car or walking tour of Charleston's key sights and history.

From $125 per hour for 2 people. Plantation admission fees are not included. Private car tour of one or several Charleston area plantations. Tours are available to Middleton Place, Drayton Hall, Boone Hall Plantation, and the Charleston Tea Garden and Angel Oak.

From $125 per hour for 2 people Private car tour visiting Charleston's downtown and peninsular Civil War and other military history sights.

From $125 per hour for 2 people. Additional admission fees may apply. Private car tour exploring the arts, crafts and culture of the Gullah people, also visiting Boone Hall Plantation.

Old Walled City Walking Tours

From $170 Customizable private tour of Charleston, up to a full day in length.

Adults $80, children $50 Private car tour of Charleston's history.

Sites and Insights Tours

$20 per person Bus tour of downtown Charleston's Black history sites.

$25 per person Bus tour of peninsular Charleston's Black history sites.

$40 per person Bus tour of Black history sites in peninsular Charleston and James and Johns Islands.

$40 per person Bus tour of Black history sites on James and Johns Islands.

$25 per person Bus tour of Charleston's historic Black and White houses of worship.

Gullah Tours

$25 per person, or $625 for a private tour or step-on guide Bus tour exploring Charleston's Black history sites and the language and culture of the Gullah people.

Charleston in a Nutshell

Adults from $98, children $22.50 Private car tour of Charleston's sights and history.

Adults from $98, children $22.50 Private tour of Charleston's sights and history.

Introductory History Tours

Charleston Bus Tour, 1hr30 With Charms of Charleston Tours. Available Monday-Saturday, morning or afternoon. Adults $20, children (12 and under) $12. Call 843-614-7167 for reservations. More details – Also available in combination with admission to the Aiken-Rhett House. Adults $29, children (12 and under) $16. – Also available in combination with admission to the Charleston Museum and the Aiken-Rhett House. Adults $38, children (12 and under) $24.

Historical City Tour, 1hr30 With Southern Accent Tours. Two tour departures daily, free hotel pickup available. Adults $28, children (4-12) $18. Call 843-509-9613 for reservations. More details

“See it All” City Tour (25 max) 1hr30 With Adventure Sightseeing. Multiple departures daily. Adults $23, children (4-11) $14, young children (0-3) free – included admission to the Powder Magazine. Call 843-762-0088 for reservations or book online. More details – Also available in combination with a Charleston Belle boat tour, offered through Charleston Harbor Tours. Adults $40, children (4-11) $30, young children (0-3) free. – Also available in combination with admission to the Joseph Manigault House. Adults $31, children (4-11) $18, young children (0-3) free.

Historic City Tour, 1hr30 With Gray Line of Charleston. Daily tours departing every 30 minutes. Adults $23, children (4-11) $14. Hotel pick-up available. Call 843-722-4444 for reservations or book online. More details – Also available in the following combinations: with a Fort Sumter tour; a narrated harbor cruise (provided by Spirit Line Cruises); a downtown historic house museum or the Charleston Museum; or with a visit to the South Carolina Aquarium, Magnolia Plantation or Boone Hall Plantation.

Daily Bus Tour, 1hr30 With Pineapple Tour Group. Tours available daily, morning or afternoon. Adults $30, seniors (65+)/veterans $25, children (12 and under) $18. Call 877-553-1670 for reservations or book online. More details

Historic Charleston Driving Tour, 2hrs With Crafted Charleston Tours. $85 per person, advance reservations required. Call 843-804-9933 for reservations or book online. More details

Other Driving Tours

(Seasonal) Festival of Lights Tour, 3hrs With Adventure Sightseeing. Evening bus tour of the annual Festival of Lights on James Island. Available mid November through December, daily. Adults $24, children (4-11) $14, young children (0-3) free. Call 843-762-0088 for reservations or book online. More details

© Melanie K Jones 2024

• Charleston Tourism
• Charleston Hotels
• Charleston Bed and Breakfast
• Charleston Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Charleston
• Charleston Restaurants
• Things to Do in Charleston
• Charleston Travel Forum
• Charleston Photos
• Charleston Map
• All Charleston Hotels
• Charleston Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Charleston
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Greater Charleston Area driving tour? - Charleston Forum

• United States    
• South Carolina (SC)    
• Coastal South Carolina    
• Charleston    

Greater Charleston Area driving tour?

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Coastal South Carolina forums
• Charleston forum

Of course, I will also be doing a walking tour of Historic Charleston.

Thanks for your help

Welcome to the Lowcountry. As such, there are no "vistas" - we do not have views of the ocean unless you are at the beach or very near (no rocky coastlines with highways perched over the water). The plantations are usually set far off the main road, in the center of tens of acres of land, so they are not visible from the road. About the only driving tour you could take would be a tour through Charleston's peninsula - but why drive when you can walk!

A drive in the opposite direction would be out Maybank Highway toward Rockville and the Cherry Point Boat Landing. You'd see a more rural side of the Lowcountry, beautiful marsh scenes, huge oaks dripping w/moss, stop for a few minutes to see the Angel Oak. If you have the time, the Tea Plantation and Irvin Vineyards Winery are also out that direction. Plenty of good restaurants along the way.

There are some tour guide services that take tours out to the plantations and other places of interest. Your hotel or the Visitors Center can make those arrangements for you.

If you get to Old Mt Pleasant drive out to the end of Pitt St. It's what we call the old bridge-used to be the bridge from Mt P to Sullivans. It's now a nice walking park with beautiful views of the harbor and the islands.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Visit with Infant - car rental/accommodation 11:14 pm
• Parking lots in Charleston 7:40 pm
• Hotel choice Mar 28, 2024
• Uber or Lyft in Charleston Mar 28, 2024
• Charleston with young kids Mar 28, 2024
• Savannah to Charleston drive Mar 27, 2024
• Inexpensive but delightful lodging Mar 27, 2024
• Best Location to Stay - VRBO Mar 27, 2024
• Ghost Tour Mar 27, 2024
• Walking Tour of Charleston Mar 25, 2024
• Motorized wheelchair rental Mar 25, 2024
• Location ? Mar 24, 2024
• Traffic Question Mar 22, 2024
• Is a week too long? Mar 22, 2024
• Experience with Priceline 'Name your own Price'? 87 replies
• Good places to eat at IN Charleston 27 replies
• Parking in downtown Charleston 6 replies
• One day in Charleston, SC 11 replies
• Thanksgiving Dinner in Charleston 5 replies
• Advice needed on Girls weekend in Charleston (or area) 8 replies
• Hop On/Off Trolley Tours 12 replies
• Parking in Historic District 7 replies
• 1st Trip to Charleston -- Best Plantation? 9 replies
• Wanting a haunted hotel experience in Charleston. 17 replies

Charleston Hotels and Places to Stay

• What should first time visitors do?
• Which Plantation is Best?
• Local Interest Books/Movies
• Destination Expert Rec's?
• Good Walking Map?
• Charleston for Kids
• Where to Bicycle in Charleston
• Gluten Free Dining Options

26 Best Road Trips from Charleston, SC

Charleston is an iconic southern city with a hint of East Coast charm, filled with antebellum architecture and romantic waterways. From fresh oysters to cornbread and grits, it's the perfect place to sample the laid-back Lowcountry lifestyle while also exploring landmarks relating to the history of the colonial period and civil war.

If you want to branch out, there are some fantastic road trips within reach of Charleston, including picturesque southern towns, mountain forests, island state parks and iconic cities like Nashville and New York.

Venture out into South Carolina and beyond by checking out one of the 26 road trips on this list. Keep reading for all the inspiration you need to plan and book your adventure.

Day trips (under 3 hours each way)

1. Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island, SC

50 minutes from Charleston (30 miles)

Why you should visit: Enjoy seaside golf courses, beach walks, and nature parks on these beautiful islands within an hour's drive from Charleston.

This island pair is renowned for its manicured golf courses with ocean views, as well as for its nature and wildlife conservation.

How to get there: Take SC-700 W to State Road S-10-20 (Betsy Kerrison Parkway). Then take either Kiawah Island Parkway to the north or Seabrook Island Road to the south.

Our highlights: If you're working on your swing, try a round of golf at Seabrook Island Club or Kiawah Island Resort, home to many famed courses including “the Ocean Course”.

There are beaches a plenty to get to know, including the Kiawah Island Beachwalker Park which is great for a stroll, Seabrook Beach and Seabrook Island Beach.

Spot some local wildlife at Heron Park Nature Center and Night Heron Park, where you can hike or bike on one of hundreds of trails, rent kayaks or take a paddling tour through the swamp lands on the islands.

Stop at Angel Oak Park just off SC-700 W to see a majestic oak tree with a photo-worthy trunk and canopy. You can also stop off and see the Martins Point Plantation, which is the iconic white house from the film The Notebook.

Bonus: Kiawah is known as a retreat for many famous celebrities including Reese Witherspoon, George Clooney, Bruce Willis and Richard Gere.

Our travel tips: Although you could do this trip in one day, booking a night at one of the resorts gives you access to enjoy all the amenities.

You can access all the beaches from the public entrances.

2. McClellanville, SC and Francis Marion National Forest

50 minutes from Charleston (40 miles)

Why you should visit: Explore this dense low country forest and swamp land within the solitude of this stunning national forest. You can hike boardwalk trails through the swamps, fish in remote ponds and learn about conservation of species in the forest.

How to get there: Take Highway 17 N to McClellanville through the national forest.

Our highlights: To learn about the environment of the Lowcountry, check out Sewee Visitor Center, or walk the I'on Swamp Interpretive trail for a walk through the forest and swamp areas to see wildlife and native plants.

You can also visit the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge to see live endangered red wolves.

If you're driving along and want a break to stretch your legs, stop off for a picnic or hike along the Palmetto Trail, the Wappetaw Trail or the Awendaw Passage Trail, where you can see anthropological site the Sewee Shell Ring.

Drive a different kind of vehicle by taking a paddle or fishing boat along the Intracoastal waterway, or sit back and relax on the Bulls Island Ferry for a sightseeing tour.

McClellanville is a small fishing town where you can get fresh Lowcountry seafood, and is a great place to use as an outfitting base for hunting or rifle ammunition if you plan on using the rifle ranges in the forest.

If you have time, take the loop from Highway 17 N to Steed Creek Road and Halfway Creek Rd to SC-41 S for a scenic detour through the national forest.

Bonus: The American black bear is occasionally sighted in the forest, so watch out!

Our travel tips: Hunting season is during fall and winter, so avoid the area during these times if you want to explore.

Swamps like I'on are flooded in winter to support hunting – check conditions before driving.

3. Cottageville, SC

1 hour from Charleston (40 miles)

Why you should visit: This quiet town has plenty of rural attractions and is a great base to explore the great outdoors. It's just a short drive out of Charleston into rural South Carolina where you can see plenty of wildlife and enjoy the cold Edisto River on a warm southern day.

How to get there: Get on Highway 17 S, turn north on State Road S-10-317 and Clubhouse Road to US-17 S in Dorchester County, then turn left onto US-17 ALT S.

Our highlights: Visit the family-run business at Bee City, where you can learn about local honey bee-keeping practices, as well as taste some honey and experience the interactive zoo.

For more wholesome fun, stop by Herd it Here Farm and visit the family farm - you're allowed to feed and play with the animals so don't dress up!

The Edisto River runs alongside this town, and is best explored by tubing on an eco-tour - you can book a company to take you to the top of the river and enjoy floating back down to the pickup point.

Bonus: Despite its tiny population, Cottageville has a City Mayor who has served the town for over ten years.

Our travel tips: This town can be easily tacked onto a trip to Walterboro, Canadys or Edisto River.

4. Walterboro, SC

1 hour 10 minutes from Charleston (50 miles)

Why you should visit: Step back into the past in this settlement town with an abundance of southern heritage and hospitality. This quaint Lowcountry town is a short drive from Charleston and offers plenty of the charm and hospitality without throngs of tourists crowds - it's great for history lovers.

How to get there: Get on Highway 17 S, turn north on State Road S-10-317 and Clubhouse Road to US-17 ALT S in Dorchester County, Turn left onto US-17 ALT S -past Cottageville to Walterboro.

Our highlights: There is plenty of wildlife in Waterboro, and there's no better place to see it than Walterboro Wildlife Center or the Wildlife Sanctuary - take one of the boardwalks or biking trails to see the nature up close.

If you're keen to hit the shops, head to downtown Walterboro and check out the local artisans in the quaint Washington St district. Get a feel for the history of the town by walking around the 55 interest points marked throughout the city on the National Register of Historic Places.

Just a short drive north from Walterboro is the town of Canadys, where you can visit the beautiful Colleton State Park. Located on the Edisto River, it's a great spot for picnics, hiking, boating or tubing.

You can camp, or book to stay at the Edisto River Treehouses Island in a private nature preserve accessible only by canoe.

Constructed in 1820, the Bedon Lucas House Museum is a beautiful historic home that's also a museum, where you can take a tour and learn about the original settlement of the valley area.

Bonus: Visit the Tuskegee Airmen Memorial honoring the WWII African American pilots and see the site of a POW camp.

Our travel tips: You can also take SC64 W to get to Walterboro from Charleston.

5. Edisto Island and Edisto Beach, SC

Why you should visit: It's just a short drive to this pristine coastal island with sandy beaches and plantations where you can learn about Native American history and the colonial settlement of the island.

See historic plantations, sea turtles nesting on beaches, pristine marshland and large oak trees surrounding the quaint town on Edisto Island.

How to get there: Head west on Highway 17 S and SC-174 S to reach Edisto Island.

Our highlights: You can travel part of this journey on the Edisto Island National Scenic Byway, a stunning road which passes through points of interest including colonial era churches, buildings, and natural attractions on the way to the island.

Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve and Wildlife Management Area is home to ancient oak trees, beaches littered with driftwood, sea turtle nesting sites, tide pools, wetlands and a heritage center surrounding colonial-era plantation ruins.

If you like the beach but don't want to just sit and tan, visit Edisto Beach State Park where you can experience the oceanfront on a walking trail to Bache Monument or check out the Edisto Environmental Learning Center.

To learn more about the colonial period throughout slavery and the American Civil War era, take a booked tour of the historic plantation homes on the island.

Bonus: The area is named after the Edisto Native American people, who left behind an ancient shell midden that you can still see today at Spanish Mount Point.

Our travel tips: Loggerhead turtles nest in spring and summer and is a truly rare event to witness if you time it right - you can take a guided night walk with the state park staff in June and July.

6. Beaufort, SC

1 hour 30 minutes from Charleston (70 miles)

Why you should visit: This lesser-known southern Lowcountry town is rich in history, set against picturesque moss-draped live oaks and winding colonial streets. Visit this coastal town and explore the historical homes, breath-taking scenery and abundance of southern charm.

How to get there: Take Highway 17 S west out of Charleston, then turn south on Highway 21 near Gardens Corner.

Our highlights: Breathe in the salty coastal air on a walk through the cobblestoned Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Catch a performance at the stage, watch the sunset on the swings or take a carriage ride from the marina.

Check out uptown by taking a stroll down Bay Street or Carteret Street for unlimited seafood options, craft cocktails, Lowcountry soulfood and local artisan shops and boutiques.

Wander around the streets of Old Point to see the cultural district, home to antebellum houses and mansion museums including Robert Smalls House, The Oaks, Marshlands, Riverview and Old Barnwell House.

The nearby town of Port Royal is great for birdwatching, with a rookery and the nature-filled Port Royal Cypress Wetlands. You can take a walking trail along the boardwalk, relax on the beach or charter a fishing boat.

Bonus: Beaufort is the second oldest city in South Carolina after Charleston, founded in 1711.

Our travel tips: Beaufort is a great stop on the way to Hunting Island - combine the two for a weekend trip!

7. Hunting Island State Park

2 hours from Charleston (90 miles)

Why you should visit: This scenic coastal state park is a chance to step away from civilization and experience the natural beauty of the forested sea islands.

Maybe one of the best beaches in America, this pristine white sand coastline is popular yet remains beautifully unspoiled.

How to get there : Take highway 17 S west out of Charleston, then turn south on Highway 21 near Gardens Corner. To go via Beaufort, continue on Highway 21 to the State Park and Sea Islands.

Our highlights: Within the park there are several lovely trails to explore, as well as 5 miles of coastline and beaches. Even the drive through the gates with its towering palmettos is an experience, leading on to a fishing pier and access for boats, a lagoon, and a marsh boardwalk.

There are several outfitters in the island area that can kit you out with kayaks or crabbing equipment, or whisk you away on a dolphin watching cruise or fishing trip.

For a great view, climb to the top of the Huntington Island Lighthouse where you can take in a bird's-eye perspective of the coast and surrounding forests.

Drive across Tarpon Bridge to nearby Fripp Island for more trails, a golf course, fishing and crabbing docks. There are also acres and acres of undeveloped marsh wetlands to explore that are teeming with birds and wildlife.

Bonus: Frogmore stew is a famous Lowcountry dish that you can find in the town of Frogmore and surrounding Sea Island towns.

Our travel tips: This park is a great day trip from Charleston, or can be paired with a stay in Beaufort for more time exploring the whole Sea Island area.

8. Savannah, GA

2 hours from Charleston (100 miles)

Why you should visit: Another charming Southern escape , Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia. Visit for a buzzing food and drink scene, fantastic hospitality, and an intriguing history full of ghosts and folklore.

How to get there: Take Highway 17 S to I-95 S. Then take Highway 17 S to GA-404 in Savannah via Hutchinson Island.

Our highlights: To get a feel for the city take a walk along River Street, the waterfront of Savannah River where you can find local shops, dining options, historic buildings and parks, as well as monuments like Old City Exchange Bell, and the WWII Memorial.

The Historic District is the most picturesque part of old Savannah, with live oak trees covered in Spanish moss surrounded by squares and parks with historic antebellum houses. Don't miss seeing Forsyth Park, and see if you can spot the iconic white fountain under the trees!

Old Fort Jackson and Fort Pulaski National Monument are two historical military landmarks to visit while in Savannah, known for their early 1800s style and Civil War significance - they offer live canon firings and daily tours.

Tybee Island is a beach island located just a short drive from Savannah, and is a great place to escape onto the water and hire paddle boards, walk the pier and relax beside the Atlantic Ocean.

Bonus: Savannah claims to be one of America's most haunted cities, so take one of the many ghost tours if you're feeling brave!

Our travel tips: The Savannah Stopover Music Festival happens every March, tied to Austin's famous SXSW festival, so the city fills up with musicians and their fans during this month.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Charleston to Savannah

9. Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, SC

2 hours 10 minutes from Charleston (100 miles)

Why you should visit: Known for its white sandy beaches, surf-ready waves and relaxed atmosphere, this island is a great destination if you crave some time off the grid.

The charming culture of the surrounding town and island community make this beach town entirely unique.

How to get there: Take Highway 17 S to the west to meet I-95 S, then take US Highway 278 east out of Hardeeville to the island, passing through Bluffton.

Our highlights: The most popular beach in this area is Coligny Beach Park, known for its scenic views, white sands and bleached wood boardwalks, as well as many shopping options and restaurants.

Harbour Town Lighthouse is a postcard-worthy site, striped red and white amidst a quaint harbor and marina. You can enjoy a meal with a view here, or rent bikes and explore the surrounding trails in the Sea Pines community and Sea Pines Forest Preserve.

The Coastal Discovery Museum is a historical property where you can learn more about the Lowcountry through interesting exhibits, set in beautiful grounds under Spanish Moss draped oak trees.

Before you get to the island you'll pass through the little town of Bluffton, which has charming shopping dining options and shopping without the island price tag. Bluffton has its own rich history and is another Southern coastal city reminiscent of Charleston or Savannah, surrounded by coastal marshes, historic antebellum architecture and Lowcountry forests.

Bonus: In Hilton Head it is illegal to display neon signs, in an attempt to keep the town from becoming over-commercialized.

Our travel tips: You can take Highway 17 S to Highway 64 which heads north through Walterboro before joining I-95 to add another stopover to this trip. Alternatively, take Highway 21 and Highway 170 through Port Royal Island to stopover in Beaufort.

Sea turtles nest here between May-October, so you have to keep the lights out at night.

10. Myrtle Beach, SC

Why you should visit: Visit this iconic beach town for endless entertainment and lively nightlife along the picturesque boardwalk. An iconic beach town with amusement parks, arcades, golf courses and pristine white sands with choppy waves great for surfing.

How to get there: Head north on Highway 17 via Georgetown to arrive in Myrtle Beach.

Our highlights: Huntington Beach State Park is on your right as you approach Myrtle Beach. Stop here to explore the coastal and marsh walking trails, as well as the Atalaya Castle, a 1930s Moorish-style house with a unique history and sculpture garden.

Brookgreen Gardens are just across from the state park, where you can visit the Lowcountry Zoo.

You can walk for miles on the sandy shores that give Myrtle Beach its name - stroll along the boardwalk, fish off the pier, swim in the waves or even take a surf lesson.

The Boardwalk and Promenade offer up a world of fun in the form of arcade games, dining and carnival rides with an art-deco flair. Attractions include Ripley's Aquarium, the SkyWheel and Broadway at the Beach.

If you'd rather relax on an undeveloped stretch of beach, visit Myrtle Beach State Park and Pier.

There are plenty of resorts along Ocean Boulevard that offer amenities such as luxury golf courses, spas, waterparks, jet ski rentals, boating and fishing trips.

Bonus: Myrtle Beach is famous for its golf courses and hosts international pro golf tournaments every year.

Our travel tips: This drive takes you through the Francis Marion National Forest and Huntington Beach State Park.

Summer is the peak tourist time in Myrtle Beach, while the shoulder seasons have less crowds and lower rates.

11. Columbia, SC

2 hours 20 minutes from Charleston (120 miles)

Why you should visit: This Southern city is a state capital, meaning it packs a punch for bustling nightlife and entertainment. Surrounded by old hardwood forests and rivers, this lowlands city holds plenty of thrills while but maintaining its classic history and charm.

How to get there: Take I-26 W then take US-1 towards Columbia.

Our highlights: As you drive out of Charleston, stop off at Francis Beidler Audubon Forest to see the Four Holes Swamp. You'll see bald cypress trees and an old growth forest that is home to tons of birds and rare biological sites, as well as tracing the path of the National Underground Railroad.

Stop at Santee State Park along the drive to discover the sandhills and go boating, canoeing or kayaking on Lake Marion. The town of Santee is also worth exploring, with antique shopping and great local cuisine.

For a slice of nature a bit closer to the city, check out Congaree National Park where you can hike through the boardwalk trails or venture out on a canoe to discover this hardwood forest via its network of waterways.

Columbia Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is great for families, with animal exhibits and exotic botanical gardens. For older visitors, check out South Carolina State Museum and State House, which offers tours of the building as well as art and science exhibits.

To get a general feel for the city, head into downtown along Gervais St where you will find great restaurants, bars, and nightlife. In the daytime, stroll around the Canal and Riverfront Park for picnic spots and scenic views of the city and river.

Bonus: Columbia is home to University of South Carolina, where you can visit the beautiful campus or even catch a football game in the fall.

Our travel tips: The state capital is walkable and easy to navigate, so park up and explore on foot.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Weekend trips (3-5 hours each way)

12. Wilmington, NC

3 hours 40 minutes from Charleston (180 miles)

Why you should visit: A buzzing city on the beach, travel here for access to the Cape Fear Coast and River District. Known for its vibrant riverfront and island beaches, this city is a waterfront paradise with thriving culture and a rich history to boot.

How to get there: Take Highway 17 north, then detour around Myrtle Beach on SC-31.

Our highlights: The Riverfront District is a vibrant part of the city blending old and new, with an amphitheater, lively restaurants and bars, shopping, and a scenic riverwalk paved walkway.

Battleship North Carolina is docked right near the Riverfront district at the port - get a taste of WWII history by touring this massive wartime craft.

For an atmosphere wander stroll through the Historic District, which encompasses quintessentially southern squares and blocks of brick streets with historic antebellum houses.

Wrightsville Beach is the closest beach to Wilmington and has a lovely walkable beach and surrounding marsh lands, where you can kayak, canoe, surf, wind surf, sail, boat and fish on the piers.

Carolina Beach and Kure Beach are located a bit further south and are more remote with peaceful winds, sand dunes and piers, as well as the North Carolina Aquarium and Fort Fisher State Historic Site.

Bonus: Wilmington isn't far from the Carolina Outer Banks, made popular by the tv show “Outer Banks”.

Outer Banks is also the fictional setting of the marshlands in the popular book and movie “Where the Crawdads Sing”.

Our travel tips: This route takes you through Francis Marion National Forest, Georgetown and Myrtle Beach, which are also destinations in this list.

13. Greenville, SC

3 hours 20 minutes from Charleston (210 miles)

Why you should visit: This smaller city has a great arts and entertainment scene, with highlights like Greenville County Museum of Art and the Carolina Music Museum. Enjoy the local shopping, dining, and spot the central scenic waterfall in a laid-back atmosphere.

How to get there: Take I-26 W to US-1 towards Columbia, then continue on I-26 through Sumter National Forest. Take the exit onto I-385 N to reach Greenville.

Our highlights: For amazing waterfalls in the heart of the city, hop over the suspension bridge to visit Falls Park on the Reedy. Continue your hike along the Swamp Rabbit trail to head along the river and up the creeks that cut through the city.

Just to the north of Greenville sits Paris Mountain State Park - an adventurer's paradise with mountainous trails, canoe and kayak rentals on Lake Placid and impossibly scenic views.

Greenville Zoo's is one of South Carolina's most-loved attractions, with a huge range of animals including red pandas, ocelots, African lions and giraffes.

For the best shopping and dining head to downtown Greenville - Lauren Street and Washington Street are home to great southern food, locally-owned boutiques and antique stores.

It's less than an hour drive north to Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area and Jones Gap State Park along SC-276. This scenic drive takes you all the way to the North Carolina border for a spot of wilderness recreation.

You can also go via the Merry Falls and Corn Mill Shoals Trail Waterfall and circle back down the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway.

Bonus: Home of Shoeless Joe Jackson – a legendary baseball figure – baseball is central sport for Greenville. See if you can catch a game at Fluor Field!

Our travel tips: This area is especially scenic during the fall when the foliage changes.

14. Charlotte, NC

Why you should visit: Charlotte is a fun Southern city with plenty of culture and beautiful parks, set in the beautiful sandhills.

The central city of North Carolina, Charlotte has southern roots with rich Native American and Civil war history, culturally rich neighborhoods and photo-worthy sites and attractions.

How to get there: Follow I-26 W to I-77 N, or see the alternative scenic route below.

Our highlights: Probably Charlotte's most famous monument, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must-see for any car-racing fans.

The largest green space in the city is Freedom Park, which is home to walking trails, tranquil ponds and historical markers. Especially in the summer, it hosts a range of concerts and festivals.

Mint Museum and Levine Centre for the Arts is a unique visit where you can explore an old coin mint alongside a fantastic art collection. It has two locations - one in the heart of Eastover and one uptown.

If you're feeling brave, take a haunted sites segway or bike tour from downtown to discover the historic homes and sites that are said to have an unsettled past.

During the Caroline Gold Rush, the first treasure was found in Reedy Gold Mine - today you can tour the mine and even mine for your own gold at this historic landmark.

Bonus: Charlotte is the hometown of Carolina Panthers football, who play at Bank of America Stadium.

Charlotte is nicknamed the “Queen City”, named after Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, who was the Queen of Great Britain when the city was first settled in 1755.

Our travel tips: There is an alternative scenic route which takes 4 hours 20 minutes. It takes you up through the sandhills and national forestlands on US-52 W, past Lake Moultrie and towards Lee State Park.

Take US-1 N towards Cheraw State Park, then follow SC-151 past Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge.

15. Asheville, NC and Pisgah National Forest

4 hours 40 minutes from Charleston (270 miles)

Why you should visit: A mountainside city known for its art scene and history, with scenic views and a mecca of outdoor recreation. Enjoy the scenery of the Smoky Mountains while you explore the quaint town of Asheville, or treat yourself by checking into one of its many spa retreats.

How to get there: Head to Asheville via I-26 W from Charleston.

Our highlights: En route you can stop at Lake Lure, just off NC-9 and Alt 74. There are plenty of natural attractions here, including the Flowering Bridge Garden, Chimney Rock State Park and the Chimney Rock Village Riverwalk along the Broad River.

The downtown art district in Asheville has multiple galleries and museums to explore, many showcasing local artisans and crafts as well as exhibits from national and international artists. This district is also filled with local wineries and eclectic restaurants.

The Basilica of Saint Lawrence is a beautiful gothic-style cathedral that is worth seeing for its grand architecture, or check out 19th century French Renaissance château Biltmore Estate for its historic art collection, gardens and spa.

Jump on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville and drive north to reach Pisgah National Forest, where you can hike, walk, or take a scenic drive with stunning mountain overlooks. You can take a 100-mile loop back to Asheville through Micaville and Pensacola.

Alternatively, you can take the Blue Ridge Parkway south towards Highway 276, then make a loop back north to Asheville through Woodrow and Canton.

Bonus: The LaZoom comedy tour bus is a one-of-a-kind comedy show on wheels that takes you on a tour of the city. Another fun option is a visit to the Pinball Museum!

Our travel tips: You can tack on a stop in Columbia or detour to Greenville on this route.

There are plenty of nearby ski resorts open in the winter.

When it shows, be prepared for road closures in the mountains and look up alternate routes.

16. Atlanta, GA

4 hours 50 minutes from Charleston (300 miles)

Why you should visit: Atlanta is a highlight of the South known for its scenic beauty as well as great food, culture and downtown attractions. Atlanta has it all - rich history, craft beer, glittering skylines and eye-catching street art.

How to get there: Take I-26 W and then follow I-20 W through Augusta and Oconee National Forest.

Our highlights: Oconee National Forest is en route and is certainly worth a stop to stretch your legs. As well as hiking, you can hire a boat to take out on Lake Oconee.

Stop at the World of Coca Cola attraction to tour and taste the history of the world's most famous soft drink, and taste samples from around the world!

If the rich and famous visit Atlanta, they head to the suburb of Buckhead. This area offers great high-end shopping, dining, and luxury art galleries.

Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the US, and features whale sharks, penguins, sea lions and many other aquatic species.

Just outside of Atlanta sits Stone Mountain Park - this large granite mountain and surrounding park has a cable car to the top, or you can drive all the way around the mountain to see a carving of Civil War Confederate generals.

Bonus: CNN Center is located here, the filming location for CNN world news and associated shows. You can take a studio tour to see it up close.

Our travel tips: We've listed only a handful of museums in the city, but there are plenty more to explore for culture-lovers.

Long weekend trips (5-8 hours each way)

17. Blowing Rock and Boone, NC

5 hours from Charleston (300 miles)

Why you should visit: This part of the world has plenty of attractions for road trippers, including amusement parks and museums, as well as unspoilt surrounding public lands for hiking and scenic vistas.

Here you have easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and all of its natural attractions, making it the perfect destination for exploring the outdoors.

How to get there: Follow I-26 through Columbia and take I-77 N to Charlotte, then follow NC-321 towards Blowing Rock.

Our highlights: Boone is the home of Appalachian State University, and has many quaint shopping and dining districts. It's a great base for day hikes or tours to the nearby mountains and parks, as there are plenty of outdoor recreation outfitters in town.

Both Sugar Mountain and the Appalachian Ski Mountains are nearby, and their high elevation makes them perfect for winter skiing and other snow sports like snow-shoe hiking, tubing, snowboarding and snowmobile trails.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is world-famous for its scenic overlooks, with plenty of opportunities to stop and hike trailheads, waterfalls and mountain peaks. Photographers gather every sunrise and sunset to capture the vistas, and even more so in the fall when the leaves are changing colors.

Bonus: You can visit the city's namesake The Blowing Rock, a windy mountain peak with gusts so strong it can blow objects back to you.

Our travel tips: Many scenic loops can be taken from Boone and Blowing Rock, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, Highway 221, 321, and 19E. You can also take a scenic drive from here towards Gatlinburg via Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Parkway is known for being winding and can be difficult to drive in rain or snow conditions, and can have traffic and delays. Ideally, plan a few overnight stays along the way to take advantage of all it has to offer.

18. Orlando, FL

6 hours and 10 minutes from Charleston (380 miles)

Why you should visit: A year-round warm weather destination known for its world-class entertainment, including the iconic Disney and Universal Studio parks.

The drive from Charleston to Orlando has plenty of opportunities for stops in vibrant southern cities, en route to warm Atlantic beaches and a welcoming tropical climate.

How to get there: Take Highway 17 W to meet I-95 S to Savannah and Jacksonville. Follow I-95 south to Daytona Beach and then take I-4 to Orlando.

Our highlights: There's a lot going on at Cape Canaveral Florida - it's where rockets launch and is home to Kennedy Space Center NASA. If that's not your thing, you can surf at Cocoa Beach or relax on Canaveral National Seashore.

It wouldn't be a visit to Orlando without seeing Disney World - discover Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort, Downtown Disney, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.

Disney World is just the tip of the iceberg, there's also Universal Studios where you can visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, Universal Orlando Resort. You could easily spend a few days getting lost here!

To get away from the crowded parks, visit one of the incredible natural attractions in the area, including over 100 lakes, Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park and Blue Springs State Park for swimming.

Bonus: Orlando got more visitors than any other destination in the world in 2015.

Our travel tips: You can tack on plenty of other cities to this route, including Savannah, Hilton Head Island, Jekyll Island.

19. Knoxville, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN

7 hours 20 minutes from Charleston (380 miles)

Why you should visit: This scenic drive through the Smoky Mountains has a whole range of attractions, from nature and amusement parks to shows and museums. These charming towns play host to all sorts of exciting activities, all set against stunning mountain scenery.

How to get there: Take I-26 through Columbia to Asheville. From Asheville, follow I-40 E through Smoky Mountains, then take US-321 S to Gatlinburg and continue on Parkway to US-441 N.

Our highlights: Knoxville is known for being a bigger city with mountain charm. It's a great place to explore downtown, hear live music, eat soul food, and have a drink at a local microbrewery.

Pigeon Forge is home of the famous Dollywood amusement park, but also hosts attractions such as the TITANIC museum, alpine coasters, zip lines and other amusement rides.

Set at the foothills of the Smoky mountains, Gatlinburg is picturesque with lots of attractions to choose from, including many nature-based activities. You can ride the gondola at Ober Gatlinburg amusement park or hike to Mount Harrison and Cataract Falls.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is very driveable, with plenty of opportunities to stop and hike some waterfall trails. It's famous for its fall foliage and is accessible from plenty of directions including the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Bonus: Pigeon Forge is the hometown of Dolly Parton, so you'll see her name splashed on many attractions in the town.

Our travel tips: This area is a popular tourist center and so can be busy any time of year.

Longer trips (Over 8 hours each way)

20. Panama City and Panama City Beach, FL

8 hours from Charleston (510 miles)

Why you should visit: Panama City boasts one of the most stunning beaches on the Gulf Coast with white sands and emerald-green water. Gulf Coast beaches are very different from the Atlantic coast, plus Panama City has endless entertainment and nightlife to pair with days spent tanning.

How to get there: Take Highway 17 west to meet I-95 S towards Savannah and Jacksonville. Follow I-10 W to Tallahassee and then turn south on Highway 12 and Highway 20 to FL-231.

Our highlights: Panama City Beach has emerald-turquoise water, soft white sands, seafood restaurants, cocktail bars and a delicious Gulf breeze. There are beach options to fit any mood, from sparsely populated to party-central - enjoy the solitude in Shell Island or have a cocktail on the famous PCB.

St. Andrews State Park is a more natural beach setting with bay waters for fishing. You can get to Shell Island from here via a boat tour. Gulf Islands National Seashore is another undeveloped beach without crowds. You might even catch the Blue Angels doing some practice flights above the beach!

Rosemary Beach is a picturesque town with colorful antebellum houses and delightful shopping. It's smaller than Panama City with fewer tourists and local crafts for sale.

Apalachicola is just a short drive from Panama City - it's a quaint south-eastern town with oyster bars and plenty of places to grab some fresh Gulf seafood.

Bonus: Panama City is a popular Spring Break destination for high school and college students.

Our travel tips: This is a busy city, but the shoulder seasons will have fewer crowds.

21. Nashville, TN

8 hours 20 minutes from Charleston (550 miles)

Why you should visit: Nashville is a big city with a small-town feel - it's the hometown of country music but all genres and types of people are welcome here. Visit “The Music City”, where you can find vibrant nightlife, live music at every turn, southern food and great hospitality.

How to get there: Take I-26 and I-20 W to Atlanta. Then follow I-75 N to Chattanooga and I-24 N to Nashville.

Our highlights: It's practically impossible to come to Nashville and avoid hearing live music - the best nightlife and entertainment can be found on Broadway Street or Honky Tonk Row. If you want to catch a proper show, try one of the famous venues like Ryman Auditorium or the Grand Ole Opry.

If you can't get enough, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to get a peek at the costumes, instruments, and other memorabilia representing your favorite artists.

It's just a short drive north to Bowling Green and Mammoth Cave - explore the world's longest known cave system or have a scenic meal in the charming town.

Bonus: Some of the biggest Nashville events occur in the summer, like the CMA Music Festival in June and Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman.

Our travel tips: You can link this trip up with Knoxville, Asheville, and Charlotte by taking I-77 out of Columbia to I-40 W.

22. Miami, FL

8 hours 50 minutes from Charleston (590 miles)

Why you should visit: Miami has world class beaches with amazing restaurants and a hip and happening nightlife scene. This city is where you come to party and be entertained alongside the rich and famous, set on the gorgeous Florida coast.

How to get there: Take I-26 south to meet I-95 S to Jacksonville. Follow I-95 to Miami or detour via I-4 and the Florida Turnpike through Orlando.

Our highlights: Before you even get to Miami, stop off at Hilton Head Island, Jekyll Island or Cape Canaveral Florida. Alternatively, stop off at one of the theme parks in Orlando and spend a few days here before continuing your journey.

Miami has plenty of gorgeous beaches, but if you want to venture a bit further out, West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale offer art, food, and beaches as well as vibrant Cuban culture and cuisine.

If you want beaches without the high-rise developments of Miami beach, head to Key Biscayne where you can find golf courses and nature trails, or hike to the lighthouse on Bill Baggs Cape Florida State. You can also take a boat tour to go snorkeling or scuba-diving in Biscayne Bay.

Bonus: Miami is home to celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, The Rock, Matt Damon, Shakira, and Cher - you can see many luxury homes from the water.

Our travel tips: You can take a ferry from Miami to the Bahamas, which is a great way to travel internationally without taking a flight.

23. Memphis, TN

10 hours 30 minutes from Charleston (690 miles)

Why you should visit: Memphis is located on the Mississippi River - you can find tons of culture, music history, and artists here, as well as amazing soul food and live music entertainment. This city was made famous as the birthplace of Rock and Roll, so it's perfect for any music lover!

How to get there: Take I-26 and I-20 through Atlanta and Birmingham, then take I-22 N to Memphis.

Our highlights: If you want to get out of the city, take a scenic drive through Holly Springs National Forest, or head to Fuller State Park. Mud Island River Park houses a scale replica of the Mississippi River that you can explore on foot or by bike.

To get to know the musical history of the city visit Stax Museum of American Soul Music - located in Soulsville USA, it's the origin of Stax Records and has tons of cultural exhibits and artifacts from culturally significant figures from Isaac Hayes to Aretha Franklin.

If you can't get enough, take a tour of Sun Studios where some of the most famous musicians in the world have recorded their songs, including Elvis and Johnny Cash.

Beale Street is the “home of the Blues”, where you can listen to live music and eat delicious barbeque. Head here for nightlife and entertainment like nowhere else in the city.

Bonus: Memphis is known as the birthplace of Rock and Roll, made famous by Elvis Presley and many other rock and roll artists.

Our travel tips: The city also has a deep rooted history in the Civil Rights movement, with museums and historic sites to see devoted to freedom fighters.

24. New York City, NY

11 hours 30 minutes from Charleston (760 miles)

Why you should visit: The Big Apple needs no introduction - it's a once-in-a-lifetime city experience and a chance to see all the bucket-list landmarks like Times Square and The Statue of Liberty.

New York is so much more than just Manhattan - you can also find local gems and lots of fun in Brooklyn, Long Island and other lesser-traveled boroughs.

How to get there: Take I-95 north to Newark then join US-278 to cross into Brooklyn - on the journey you'll pass through Washington DC, Baltimore and Philadelphia.

Our highlights: As you are crossing into Brooklyn on US-278, turn south to head to visit Coney Island, an iconic beach and amusement park set along a beach boardwalk. You can choose your own pace here - relax on the sand, ride a thrill coaster, or chow down on the famous hot dogs.

Manhattan is best explored on foot, or by subway - climb up to the top of the Rockefeller Center or the Empire State Building for an amazing view. Once your feet get tired, see if you can catch a Broadway show and be wowed as the lights go down.

Fifth Avenue is the most famous shopping street in the city, offering luxury brands and storefronts straight out of glossy fashion magazines. If you fancy a more relaxed vibe, hit East side Orchard Street which has art galleries, museums, and more eclectic shops to browse.

Central Park is a must-visit - this iconic green space in the middle of Manhattan is too massive to explore in one trip, but make sure to take a stroll through at least once during your stay.

Bonus: New York is the most populous city in the US, and the food and languages found on every street corner reflect the diverse population.

Our travel tips: Travel to New York any time of the year, but be prepared for hot humid weather in the summer and cold snow in the winter. The holidays can bring big crowds to the city, so buy tickets to any Broadway shows in advance.

Staying in Brooklyn is a good way to find more affordable accommodation with better availability. If you'd like to learn more about the best areas to stay in New York, you can find our detailed guide here:

READ MORE - Our Area-by-Area Guide to NYC

25. New Orleans, LA

11 hours 20 minutes from Charleston (780 miles)

Why you should visit: The French influence makes this city a cultural experience unlike anywhere else in the US. New Orleans is the home of Mardi Gras, but the party atmosphere lasts all year round in this vibrant center for music, Creole food and French architecture.

How to get there: Take Highway 17 S on this road trip from Charleston to New Orlean s, then follow I-95 S to Jacksonville. Get on I-10 W to go via Tallahassee, Pensacola, Mobile en route to New Orleans.

Our highlights: Stop for a break in Pensacola en route, which has a great food scene. There are military and air force museums to visit, but the highlight is the diverse exhibits at the Pensacola Museum of Art.

Mobile is a charming antebellum city rich with history. Take a tour of the preserved 19th century mansions, sample the delicious local Gulf seafood and take a stroll under the Spanish mossy oaks. For military fans, there are WWII vessels on display at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park.

New Orleans has it all - history, charm and flair. Take a tour around the French Quarter to see the colonial architecture, or head to Bourbon Street to drink your way down the bars to the soundtrack of jazz and country western.

If you're feeling lucky, play a few rounds at Harrah's Casino, or for something more relaxing, take a river boat cruise down the waterfront - some of them have live music included! You don't need to book an activity to feel part of the city - there is tons of street art and buskers to be found strolling the streets, as well as local artisan shops.

Bonus: In 2023, Mardi Gras falls on Tuesday February 21, although celebrations begin about a week before. Expect lots of parties, parades, music, libations, and a flock of tourists.

Our travel tips: New Orleans can be hot and humid in the summer, but is still a great time to visit as long as you keep an eye on the weather for hurricane warnings.

Mardi Gras is peak tourism season, so plan in advance. For a fun experience without the crowds, book a hotel with a balcony on Bourbon Street so you can observe the parades with a front row seat.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Charleston to New Orleans

26. Niagara Falls

13 hours 40 minutes from Charleston (880 miles)

Why you should visit: Niagara Falls and the town of Niagara is a beautiful destination to witness a bucket list-worthy natural phenomenon. An iconic American natural wonder, the surrounding area including Niagara-on-the-Lake is renowned for its distinctive wine making.

How to get there: Take I-26 to Columbia, then follow I-77 north to Beckley West Virginia. Take VA-19 to Fayetteville, then merge onto I-79 N in Sutton. Take I-90 east out of Erie to reach Niagara.

Our highlights: Of course, Niagara Falls is the main attraction here - in warmer weather take the famous Lady of the Mist tour to see behind the falls. The American Falls have a boardwalk with stairs so you get up close (and get wet!). Winter brings another side to the falls as the surroundings freeze over with ice.

There are tons of wineries in the local area - we recommend Wayne Gretzky's which has an ice rink on site, or Peller Estates which in winter hosts its own ice bar. If you're planning a romantic weekend, Trius Winery and Restaurant is a great pick for couples, and you could even book a stay on site in their lovely B&B.

The city of Niagara is not to be missed - you'll find plenty of attractions including restaurants, shopping, a Ferris wheel and a butterfly conservatory.

There are plenty of great stops en route - see the white-water and deep canyon at New River Gorge National Park, or head to Pittsburgh to see the dramatic skyline. Alternatively, Erie is a small bustling city with charm and plenty of Pennsylvanian history.

Bonus: Niagara Falls are often considered the “eighth wonder of the world”

Our travel tips: You can cross the Rainbow International Bridge to get a view of the falls from Canada (immigration customs apply).

The Icewine festival in Niagara takes place in the last two weekends in January.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Historic Charleston | A Self-Guided Tour

This self-guided tour takes you through a section of the city with a large density of 18th-century sites, including those open to the public for free and some that that charge admission.  

• Self-Guided Tour
• Audio Tour Option
• A Brief History of Charleston
• Nearby Attractions
• Walking Tours of Charleston

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

As an alternative to using the below self-guided tour, you can now use one of our affordable AUDIO TOURS ! 

We have partnered with Atlantis Audio Tours to provide you with a convenient way to experience our tours.

Of course, you can always join our pay-what-you-wish walking tours of Charleston .

But our audio tours of Charleston give you the chance to be led by an experienced tour guide at a time of your choosing.

The tour is also available with an off-line option to view the map and hear the audio of each stop so that you don't need to have GPS maps running with the app.

Here a sample of the tour.  "The Dock Street Theater".

This self-guided tour starts at the red marker on the map at the intersection of East Bay Street and Broad Street.

With houses and buildings that have remained intact since before the American Revolution, Charleston allows your imagination to travel back in time to the when stately horse-drawn carriages rode down quaint cobblestone streets.

It also is a reminder of America's darker past when slavery was legal and Charleston was one of the biggest hubs of the slave trade. 

This tour was designed to show you both sides of the city.

(1)  The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon , East Bay Street at Broad Street

By the 1770s Charleston’s population was around 12,000 people, half of whom were slaves. In one year, over 7,000 black Africans were channeled through the city to other parts of the colonies.

The city’s commercial center was Bay Street, anchored by the Custom’s House (Exchange Building) where public slave auctions were held outside and along the adjacent factors’ wharves.

Other enterprises included brokers’ offices and a large number of merchants who catered to the maritime trade. Rope, tar, lumber, canvas, and nails were kept in good supply.

Great sailing ships arrived with bulk cargo from Europe, while smaller boats and canoes arrived via the local waterways loaded with animal skins, corn, and other goods.

Walk west on Broad Street, turn right on State Street, walk one block north and then  left on Chalmers Street, one of the few remaining cobblestone streets in Charleston.

(2)  The Old Slave Mart 6 Chalmers Street

The building at this site, which now houses the Old Slave Mart Museum , is the only surviving building in South Carolina that had been used as a slave auction gallery.

In the antebellum period, the era leading up to the Civil War, Charleston was a commercial center for the plantation economy. Where there were plantations, there were slaves.

The Old Slave Mart was built in 1859 as a result of a city regulation that prohibited public sales of slaves.

The Old Slave Mart made it possible for the slave trade to continue in Charleston now that it had been moved to an indoor private location.   It only operated for four years, closing its doors in 1863 in the idle years of the Civil War. 

Two years later, slavery would be abolished in all the United States. After 1865, the building’s ownership and use changed many times. Between 1878 and 1937 the building was a tenement for African-Americans. 

In 1938, Miriam B. Wilson purchased the building, called locally the Old Slave Mart. Wilson established a museum featuring African and African-American arts and crafts.  

In 1964, Judith Wragg Chase and Louise Wragg Graves took over the Old Slave Mart Museum and got the Old Slave Mart building placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, and operated it until 1987.

The City of Charleston bought the property in 1988, having recognized its importance in the history of the slave trade in Charleston.

(3) The Old Slave Mart Museum  located inside the Old Slave Mart

The museum displays accounts, many firsthand, of the slave trade from freed slaves told through photos and writings on display.  There are very few objects or interactive exhibits so children may be bored.

If you don’t know much about the history of the slave trade, you will find the museum interesting. It will take under an hour to go through the museum.  

Hours and Admission: Open Monday-Saturday. $7 (adults 17 and up);  $5 (ages 5-17 and seniors 60 and older); children under 5 free.

Continue on Chalmers Street one block.

(4)  The Pink House   17 Chalmers Street

Built around 1712, the Pink House is believed to be the second oldest remaining structure in Charleston. It never was a house; rather it was a tavern and rumored to have housed a brothel on the upper floor.

The Pink House was just one of the structures along cobble-stoned  “Chalmers Alley” part of the bawdy, rollicking tavern and bordello district that lay adjacent to the wharves. It remained a tavern through the 1700s when the neighborhood became more residential.

Since then it has been a publishing house, a law office and is now an art gallery. Some say that the Pink House has, from time to time, “visitors” long since departed from this earthly world.

Turn right on Church Street and walk about half a block.

(5)  The Douxsaint-Macauley House 132 Church Street

In 1726, a house was erected by a French Huguenot Paul Douxsaint. This is noted on the historic marker next to the front door.

The first house burned down in the massively destructive fire of June 13-14, 1796.  (Because of the close proximity of the houses in this area, the fire spread rapidly. It has been estimated that at least 300 families had lost their homes in the blaze).

The current house here was built after the fire and remains a fine example of early Federal period homes with its beaded weatherboarding on the exterior, 9-over-9 windows, and a roof with dormers. 

In the 19th century Daniel Macaulay, a member of one of Charleston’s leading Scottish merchant families, owned and occupied the dwelling.

Walk about 200 feet further along Church Street until you are standing in front of a very small graveyard. 

(6)  The French Huguenot (Protestant) Church   140 Church Street

The graveyard belongs to the pink neo-gothic building, the French Huguenot Church. Three church buildings have stood on this site, the current one was built in 1845.  

The first church building was completed in 1687, but during the great fire of 1796 was deliberately blown up to create a “firebreak” (a strip of cleared land made to prevent the spread of a fire).

The second church was built in 1800 but closed in 1823 as the congregation membership dwindled. Huguenot descendants revitalized the congregation in 1844 and the second church was razed and the current church was built.

The church came to be known as the C hurch of the Tides because Sunday services were held based on the tidal schedule as most in attendance came to town on boats from their up-river homes.

Throughout the 1900s, the church was used periodically by the Huguenot Society of South Carolina for special events. Today's congregation was reestablished in 1983 and is the only French Calvinist congregation in the United States today.

Across the street from the Church and graveyard, you will see an eye-catching two-story building with a balcony.

(7)  The Dock Street Theatre 135 Church Street

This ornate building with its intricate wrought-iron balcony is now home to the Charleston Stage Company, South Carolina's largest professional theater production company. However, it was built as a hotel around 1809.

Named The Planter’s Hotel, it is Charleston's last surviving hotel from the antebellum period. At that time the hotel’s guests were mainly planters from around the state who came to Charleston for the horse-racing season.

The hotel was well-known for its good food and delicious alcoholic drinks. Some believe that the South's famous Planter's Punch may have been created here. 

The building itself has had several additions to it over the years, as is evident from the different differences in brick coloration.  The prior building from 1730 is believed to have been the first building constructed specifically for theatrical performances in America.  

In 1736, the grand opening of the theatre featured a production of The Recruiting Officer by Irish playwright George Farquhar. Having left acting after accidentally stabbing a fellow actor on stage, Farquhar later served in the army as a recruiter and drew from those experiences in writing his play.

During the building’s days as the Planter’s Hotel, actors performing in nearby theaters routinely stayed at the hotel. Among the guests was Junius Brutus Booth, the father of John Wilkes Booth, Abraham Lincoln’s assassin.

Cross Queen Street and walk straight ahead one block.

(8)  St. Phillips Episcopal Church  146 Church Street

The congregation who built the current church grew out of colonial congregation who built a small wooden church in 1681. That wooden church was the first Anglican church south of Virginia.

As such, St. Phillips is home to the oldest congregation in South Carolina. In the early 18th century, a brick church was built on this site but which burned down in 1835.

The church you know see was constructed from 1835 to 1838 by architect Joseph Hyde. Many notable people from the colonial era and post-Revolutionary War years are buried in the graveyard.  Several colonial governors are interned there, including Rawlins Lowndes, the governor during the Revolutionary War.

Prominent early Americans are also buried there such as Christopher Gadsden, a general in the Continental Army, Daniel Huger, a member of the Continental Congress, Edward Rutledge, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and Charles Pinckney, a signer of the U.S. Constitution.

Note:  The building and graveyard are open to the public Monday-Friday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Turn left on Cumberland Street.

(9)   The Old Powder Magazine   79 Cumberland Street 

This building is so old that when it was built the word magazine had only one meaning – it was an arsenal of gunpowder from 1713 until 1748.

At that time, the colony was young and was afraid of attacks by Native Americans, and French or Spanish forces also staking a claim in the New World.

The city was so fortified that the colonists built a wall around it, making Charleston one of only three fortified cities on the entire eastern seaboard of British Colonial America. The magazine is also the oldest public building in the state of South Carolina. 

By the 1740s the colony was fully protected by the British Crown and the local government felt the magazine was no longer necessary.

Although it was used as an arsenal again during the Revolutionary War, after that the building served as a stable, a print shop and a carriage house.

In 1902, the National Society of Colonial Dames of America in The State of South Carolina   bought the building to ensure its preservation as a historical landmark. They converted the magazine into a museum and it has remained one ever since.

The museum is just one small room, as you can see from the size of the building. For history buffs and guns, powder and cannon enthusiasts, a visit might be worth your while.

Many people enjoy the thrill of being inside a building over 300 years old. The staff is enthusiastic and very knowledgeable and there is a diorama of the city when it was walled. Who doesn’t love dioramas!  

Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Sunday 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for children.

Walk half a block north on Cumberland to Meeting Street. Turn left on Meeting Street and about halfway down the block you will see the church and a gated path that enters the graveyard of the church.

(10) The Circular Congregational Church 150 Meeting Street

In 1681, Charles Town settlers including English Congregationalists, Scottish Presbyterians, and French Huguenots built a wooden meeting house in the northwest corner of the walled city.

As non-followers of the Anglican Church, these settlers were considered dissenters and as such was not allowed by law to call their place of worship a ‘church'.

They were allowed to call it a meeting house, and the street that led to the wooden building was called "Meeting House Street” later shortened to Meeting Street.

The current church building stands on the exact site of the wooden house. A century after its construction, the wooden meeting house was replaced with a circular brick building designed by esteemed architect Robert Mills.

That church was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1861.  In 1890 the present-day church was constructed. The church is striking due to its Romanesque style that stands out among the surrounding buildings.

The graveyard is the city’s oldest burial ground with monuments dating from 1695. Among the gravestones, 50 slate stone markers were imported from New England and constitute the largest cluster of that region’s carvers in the Southeast. 

If you are not easily spooked, take our  Charleston Ghost Tour and learn more about the "residents" of the Circular Church's graveyard .

Follow the path in the graveyard and you will exit onto Meeting Street.

(11) Meeting Street

  In 1861, a devastating fire ripped through the city and Meeting Street (between Cumberland Street and Church Street) was one of many streets whose buildings were burned to the ground, including the second Circular Church.  

The fire started from an unknown source on the night of December 11, 1861, and burned a trail through the city until 5 am on December 12. The blaze covered 540 acres and over 500 hundred buildings were burned to the ground.

More than a third of the city was gone. At the time, the damages were estimated to be $7 million dollars. This fire caused more damage to Charleston than did the damage caused by the events of the Civil War.

The image on the right shows the scope of devastation along Meeting Street (image from Library of Congress).

At 108 Meeting Street, you will find a Visitor Center housed in a former Esso gas station. This is a great place for a pit-stop for restrooms, cold drinks, and sweets. There are exhibits on local history and special events are dynamic and informative.

The gift shop features a fully-stocked book store, loaded with works on history, architecture and public figures. Better still, purchases are tax exempt!  

Hours: Monday- Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 12pm- 5pm.

Continue south one block until Broad Street. The intersection of Broad and Meeting Streets is known today as the "Four Corners of the Law" since the four buildings situated here represent four arms of law -- city, state, federal and clerical.

(12) City Hall 80 Broad Street

This hub of municipal government was constructed between 1800 and 1804 on the site of the city’s meat market from 1739 until it was destroyed by fire in 1796.

Free tours are offered and feature portraits of key Revolutionary War figures, including an odd portrait of General George Washington.  There are public restrooms and a rest area, as well as an early town archaeological exhibit on the first floor. 

Note: This is a secured public building, and visitors to the upper floors must pass through metal detector screening before getting on the elevator.

Look across the street to the northwest corner of the Four Corners of Law.

(13) Charleston County Courthouse   84 Broad Street

The Charleston County Courthouse is one of the most significant buildings in South Carolina as it served at the provincial capital for the state when it was still a British colony.

The first building was in 1753 and it was here in 1776 that the first public reading in the colony of the Declaration of Independence took place on the second story balcony overlooking Meeting Street. 

The first building was destroyed by a fire that occurred towards the end of the Revolutionary War and a new building was erected in 1792.

The building took another hit as it was badly damaged by Hurricane Hugo in 1989. It has since been restored to its 18th-century splendor.

Note : Before entering you must inquire at the entrance whether the building is open to the public because sometimes private events are happening. If it is open, you will have to pass through security screening by guards at the door.

Look across the street to the southwest corner of the Four Corners of Law.

(14) Post Office and Federal District Court  83 Broad Street

Built in 1896 in the Renaissance Revival style, this attractive building is the federal element on the Four Corners of the Law .

The post office is on the first level and above are the courtrooms.  You can walk in during normal business hours and you should. It’s simply sumptuous.

The interior is palatial with balustrade balconies, carved mahogany woodwork, a marble staircase, brass and ironwork, and stone columns. Who knew that buying a stamp could make you feel like royalty.

Cross over to the southeast corner for our next stop.

(15)  St. Michael’s Episcopal Church   71 Broad Street/80 Meeting Street

Here is the ecclesiastical corner of the Four Corners and it is the oldest and the oldest church in Charleston.  The church was built between 1752 and 1761.

St. Michael’s congregation grew out of  St. Philip's Episcopal Church a few blocks away. In fact, the first St. Philip's church stood at this site from approximately 1681 to 1727.

Then in 1751, the congregation split and St. Michael's was built. St. Michael's was the city’s focal point of Colonial resistance to the British. The church steeple was an easy target for British ship gunners.

At one point, the congregation had the steeple painted black hoping to decrease its visibility. The reverse effect occurred and it was even more visible against the blue sky.

Incredibly, St Michael’s has survived hurricanes, wars, fires, earthquakes and even a cyclone with little damage.

The interior of the church has a typical 18th-century English design, with native cedar box-pews. Pew Number 43 was used by George Washington in 1791 and later, in 1861, General Robert E. Lee sat in the same pew. 

The church and graveyard are open to the public Monday-Friday 8:45 am to 4:45 pm and Saturday mornings.

Continue south on Meeting Street for one block until Tradd Street. Turn left and enjoy one of Charleston’s most picturesque and historic streets, with at least 10 homes with landmark status.  After two blocks you will reach East Bay Street. Make a left and walk half-way up the block.

(16)  Rainbow Row  79-107 East Bay Street

Just one look and you know how this stretch of houses along East Bay Street acquired its name. This series of row houses, painted in bright colors, dates back to about 1740.

As it is near what was the waterfront district of the city back in the 18th century, the houses were owned to well-off merchants who had stores on the ground floor and lived on the upper floors.

You can read in-depth information on these festive houses in our post  What is Rainbow Row?

Continue north on East Bay Street and at 112-114 you will find the next and last stop on the tour.

(17)  Coates' Row   114-120 East Bay Street

This small simple brick and stone cluster of businesses and dwellings was built between 1710-1841.

A historic marker by the door of No. 120 says that "recently discovered documents and maps found in Scotland and the Netherlands" indicate that a seafarer's tavern was on this site as early as 1686, which would make this the oldest intact building in Charleston.  

The entire strip of buildings came into the possession of Captain Thomas Coates & his wife Catherine around 1775. It has been known as Coates’ Row ever since.  

Mrs. Coates took over Harris' Tavern, (which before that was The Tavern on the Bluffs) and renamed it "Mrs. Coates's Tavern on the Bay."

Regardless of the name, the taverns on that site were a happy site for thirsty sailors pulling into port and seeking grog, rum, and flavored beer. 

Be sure to ask the storekeeper at the liquor store about the secret tunnels that run from under the row.

Just north of Coates' Row is Old Exchange Building, where your journey through historic Charleston began.

Back to top

HISTORY OF CHARLES TOWN

In 1670 English settlers pulled into port on the west banks of the Ashley River. They named their settlement Charles Town in honor of King Charles II of England.

Charles Town (renamed Charleston in 1783) was the political, social, and economic heart of the center of South Carolina during the colonial and antebellum (pre-Civil War) eras and was the state capital until 1790.

Plantation life and high merchant activity made Charleston one of the busiest ports along the East Coast of the British colonies.

During the Revolutionary War, the soon-to-be American forces defeated the British fleet in the attack of Charleston in June 1776.  Another victory against the British Army was when a palmetto tree log fort (later named Fort Moultrie) on Sullivan's Island withstood an intense barrage of British cannonballs.

Today the South Carolina flag features a palmetto tree. Charleston's place in American history will never be forgotten because of its role in the Civil War.

In April 1861,   Fort Sumter  a federal stronghold was fired upon by Confederate forces signaling the start of the Civil War.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

• When you are finished touring, be sure to visit Ft. Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island north of the city. 
• Charleston Museum , directly across from the Visitors Center on Meeting Street, has an outstanding display of colonial-era dishes, furniture, fabric, art, and militaria. 
•  The Charleston City Day Market , which is over 200 years old. It is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily and features several hundred artists, craftspeople, and entrepreneurs.

Be sure to check out our pay-what-you-wish walking tours of Charleston and make the most of your time and money in this beautiful city.

RELATED POSTS

• Charleston Architecture Tour
• Charleston Civil War Tour
• Charleston Plantation Tours

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Scott Nelson

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Chicora Tours of Charleston

• Walking Tours
• Driving Tours

Private Tours

Chicora tours, charleston instagram location tour, chicora tours is a member of:.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Chicoratours.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

No account found, Please enter the account ID available in the dashboard

chicoratours.com

Charleston, South Carolina

• Private & Group Tours
• Combo Tours

Cruising Thru History

SC bridge among the most iconic in the US for scenic commutes, new poll shows. Here's why

Mar. 8—If you've ever been in the South Carolina Lowcountry, you might have found yourself driving through Charleston.

The historic city is known for many things, including the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge.

The famed bridge, which has cruises and tours to view the structure, has been ranked as one of the most iconic bridges in the country by a recent poll of 3,000 individuals.

Selected as the sixth best bridge in the nation for a scenic commute, the cable-stayed bridge was called the "pride of Charleston" by the study from Gunther Volkswagon for its views of the Charleston Harbor and the city itself.

Used by visitors and commuters on a daily basis from Charleston to Mt. Pleasant, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge was named as "one of the most iconic landmarks in South Carolina" for drivers traveling over sailboats and dolphins in the Cooper River.

Constructed of two-diamond-shaped towers, each 575 feet high, the Charleston bridge officially opened to traffic on July 16, 2005 after taking four years to complete and is where over 80,000 cars now cross the bridge daily, according to the South Carolina Historical Society.

The bridge is named after Arthur Ravenel Jr., the former US Congressman and state senator who campaigned for the funding needed to construct the bridge, the society continued.

As for the top 10 most scenic bridges for commuting in the U.S., according to the poll, these include:

1.⁠ ⁠Admiral Clarey Bridge, Hawaii

2.⁠ ⁠Sunshine Skyway Bridge, Florida

3.⁠ ⁠London Bridge, Arizona

4.⁠ ⁠Rickenbacker Causeway Bridge, Florida

5.⁠ ⁠Golden Gate Bridge, California

6.⁠ ⁠Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, South Carolina

7.⁠ ⁠Mackinac Bridge, Michigan

8.⁠ ⁠Chicago Skyway Bridge, Illinois

9. Casco Bay Bridge, Maine

10. Alberton Gorge Bridges, Montana

(c)2024 The Island Packet (Hilton Head, S.C.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.