Between the ocean shoreline, the history, the community, and the nightlife, there are so many great things to do in Downtown Charleston, SC. Spanning just five square miles, you’ll find dozens of Downtown Charleston attractions, activities, and fun community events for locals to enjoy. Whether you’re getting your steps in, shopping around town, seeing the city’s landmarks, trying out a new restaurant, or taking a peaceful moment by the water, there’s no shortage of fun stuff to do in Downtown Charleston.

Summary:

• Best Things to Do in Downtown Charleston, SC, Overall

• Top Things to Do in Historic Downtown Charleston, SC

• Fun Things to Do in Downtown Charleston, SC, at Night

• Free Things to Do in Downtown Charleston, SC

• Conclusion

Best Things to Do in Downtown Charleston, SC, Overall

The list of things to see in Downtown Charleston is lengthy, but these are our top recommendations and must-do activities. Whether you’re buying a new home in Charleston and starting a new life chapter or a long-time resident, here are our favorite Downtown Charleston things to do:

• Explore the city: Part of the charm of Charleston is its atmosphere and architecture. Whether you’re getting your steps in or renting a bike or golf cart, a Saturday roaming around downtown is a day well spent.

• Grab a bite: Charleston has a dynamic restaurant scene. You can choose from coastal cuisine or Lowcountry fare to a melting pot of other gourmet meals.

• See the Charleston landmarks: Charleston’s rich history means iconic landmarks are sprinkled throughout the city. You may be called to the coastal waters, where you can see Rainbow Row, the Battery, and the legendary Pineapple Fountain. Other places to visit in Downtown Charleston include strolling Church Street or snapping a photo underneath the renowned Angel Oak® tree.

Top Things to Do in Historic Downtown Charleston, SC

Founded in 1670, this city has much to offer those looking for things to do in historic Charleston, SC. Attractions range from the stunning coastal architecture to the landmarks that dot the city:

• Visit the Charleston Museum: Established in 1773, the Charleston Museum offers a variety of exhibits and artifacts alongside the Joseph Manigault House and the Heyward-Washington House, two historic homes owned by the museum. Full of period pieces, they allow visitors to travel back in time. The museum also owns a 580-acre preserve called the Dill Sanctuary, a wildlife refuge open to the public during special events throughout the year.

• Explore historic homes around the city: After visiting the Charleston Museum’s homes, add these other beautiful old homes in this charming Southern city to your list. For history buffs who love learning how people lived years ago, visit the Nathaniel Russell House or the Aiken-Rhett House.
  
  

• Step into a dungeon: The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon was built in 1771 and has served multiple purposes over the centuries, including as a customs house. When the British controlled the building during the American Revolution, they converted the basement into a dungeon for prisoners of war. One of the more unique places to visit in Downtown Charleston, you can tour this old building, learn its history, and walk through the dungeon.

Fun Things to Do in Downtown Charleston, SC, at Night

Swaying oak trees, the gentle rush of the ocean in the distance, few cars, and the laughter of people hopping from bar to bar: these are the sounds of Charleston at night. If you’re looking for a date night idea or a fun way to spend the evening with friends, try these delightful Downtown Charleston, SC, activities:

• Hop on a carriage ride: Enjoy a fairytale experience by booking a carriage ride. Several companies offer horse-drawn carriage rides in Charleston, such as Old South Carriage Company, which has a 4.9 rating and more than 19K reviews on Google as of September 2024. 

• Do a bar crawl: Whether you book a bar crawl through a company or create your own lineup of a few local favorites, Charleston has breweries, wine bars, rooftop bars, and a fun night scene for a memorable evening.

• Visit the aquarium after hours: The South Carolina Aquarium, which sits on the Charleston Harbor, often has “After Hours” events for the 21-and-older crowd with food and drinks from local establishments. These events are a fun way to see and learn about ocean life through a grown-up lens. 

Free Things to Do in Downtown Charleston, SC

Downtown Charleston sightseeing doesn’t have to cost money. Here are a few free Downtown Charleston things to do: 

• Check out local farmers markets: The Charleston Farmers Market began in 1989 and is a weekly occurrence in Marion Square from April through December. The Summerville Farmers’ Market happens every Saturday (rain or shine) from April through November, has close to 100 vendors, and is about six miles from Pulte® new construction homes in Nexton. 

• Peruse the stalls at the Charleston City Market: The Charleston City Market has been a local favorite since it began in 1807. Artisans, jewelers, artists, and merchants sell their products. The market is open on Friday and Saturday nights with live music.

• Visit Hampton Park: One of the largest public parks in Downtown Charleston is Hampton Park. It’s not unusual to see locals out for a run or using the fitness trail. You can also wander through the botanical garden and enjoy its rose collection and seasonal foliage.

• Explore White Point Garden: Sitting at the tip of the Charleston peninsula is White Point Garden, a public park that spans almost six acres. With a view of the harbor and beautiful oak trees, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon. 

Conclusion

From historic homes and an aquarium to outdoor activities and delicious food, Downtown Charleston, SC, attractions and activities offer something for everyone. With all the fun places to go in Downtown Charleston, there are plenty of ways to spend a perfect day out in the Lowcountry.

Explore new construction homes in Charleston, SC, today, or browse more Pulte blogs. 

Written By: Alexandra Shimalla, Freelance Journalist

Last Updated 3/12/25