By Edwin Thomas
Fun Things to Do in Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston has been a popular destination for tourists since before the American Revolution. Located in South Carolina, modern Charleston is steeped in history, ranging from its 18th and 19th Century homes to one of the most important sites of the American Civil War. The city also occupies a central location on the South Carolina coast, with easy access to numerous
beaches. Whether a visitor to South Carolina is staying in Charleston, visiting the state ought to mean paying a visit to its largest and leading city.
Visit Fort Sumter
The ruins of the brick fort that saw the start of the Civil War lay in Charleston Harbor, standing as one of this historic city's key historical attractions. It's continued occupation by Federal troops after succession--and in the face of fire-eating South Carolina residents--resulted in a prolonged stand-off that concluded with the April 12, 1861 bombardment of the fort and the first shots of the war. Even those who are not Civil War buffs should pay a visit to this important site. Fort Sumter can be reached by a ferry ride from Liberty Square or Patriot's Point.
Fort Sumter National Monument
1214 Middle Street
Sullivan's Island, SC 29482
Charleston Museum
Heyward-Washington House
Charleston, SC is one of the oldest cities in America, making its city museum worth a look. Conveniently located across the street from the Charleston Visitors Center, the museum holds artifacts of 18th and 19th Century Charleston life, as well as a natural history display of animals from the area. Admission to the museum also includes admission to a pair of historic Charleston houses: the Heyward-Washingon House and the Manigault House.
The Charleston Museum
360 Meeting Street
Charleston, SC 29403
Tel: (843) 722-2996
Tour the French Quarter
This area is nestled into the heart of old, historic Charleston. Built on the site of the original walled colonial settlement, the French Quarter is now home to over 30 art galleries. Touring the galleries will also combine a stroll of the scenic streets of the older part of the city, which are dotted with buildings of colonial and antebellum origin. During the summer, it is advised to remember to stop in at a cafe every so often for some water or iced sweet tea: Charleston's summer heat and humidity can be brutal, especially while standing on concrete and asphalt.
French Quarter Association
Tel: (843) 577-7101
Go to the Beach
Many visitors to South Carolina come with the beach in mind, and the closest, good beach to Charleston is Folly Beach. This is a 6 mile long white sand beach located on barrier island about 15 minutes from Charleston's city center. This beach can be reached easily by car, and the budget conscious can take a bus.
Resources
About the Author:
Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.
Photo Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
