6 Bucket-list Things to Do in Charleston

Book Cruises from Charleston

Are you starting your Caribbean, Bermuda, or Bahamas trip from Charleston's eastern shores? You are pretty fortunate! Charleston, South Carolina's oldest city, is guaranteed to provide you with lots of breathtaking historic vistas mixed in with exquisite local cuisine and a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

Whether you're on a family cruise or a romantic weekend trip, you'll want to visit this lovely section of South Carolina.

Plan a few extra days to explore the historical charms of South Carolina's best city while you go for a tropical vacation.

The South Carolina Aquarium: One of the top things to do in Charleston post cruise is visiting the South Carolina Aquarium. With over 5,000 animals and displays suitable for the entire family, everyone will be delighted. This aquarium ensures that all visitors depart with an admiration for marine animals. Their ultimate purpose is conservation. While exploring the displays, you will learn about these wonderful species.

6 Fun-packed Things to Do in Charleston: Before or After Your Cruise

1. The Charleston Museum

Charleston Museum, often regarded as the "first museum" in the United States, is a beautiful reflection of Charleston's love for the South, and history. Exhibits and information about the slave trade, the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and other topics are available for history buffs. The natural history area of this museum will appeal to nature lovers. The experience goes beyond words, so you will have to visit and see for yourself!

2. Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens

The beauty of Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens will take your breath away. The lovely farm continues to raise and sell crops to this day. At this beautiful estate, voted the most photographed plantation in America, you can experience what life was like 300 years ago. The gardens are beautiful, and there are historically significant structures that still remain on property.

3. Charleston City Market

One of the country's oldest open markets is Charleston City Market. The shops are open 365 days a year and have roughly 300 vendors. Visitors travel from all over the region to see this ancient and colorful commercial complex. No matter what time of the day or season you visit, Charleston City Market has something to see, taste, and take home as a souvenir.

4. What to Eat

The COD father is known for its world-famous British fish & chips. Huge North Atlantic Cod fillets are soaked in the wet batter and served with traditional chippy chips. There are also meat pies and sausage buns.

The Workshop is an "exploratory food court" with a rotating cuisine menu. New chefs and restaurants have the opportunity to try new things and serve distinctive cuisine.

Little Jack's Tavern is a traditional American tavern that serves burgers, steaks, and incredible beer and wine. It has an old-fashioned charm and a sophisticated environment while being cozy and welcoming.

5. Things to do near the Charleston Cruise Port

There are various things to do within walking distance at the Charleston Cruise Port. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar, Grill 225, Slightly North of Broad, 5Church Charleston, PawPaw - Southern Plates, and Amen Street Fish are popular places to eat at. Located two to three blocks from the station, East Bay Street is dotted with boutiques, gifts, local craft, art galleries, and gourmet stores.

6. Spend your Time in Charleston, SC

Going on a cruise is fantastic, but being able to rest and unwind for a few days before or after the cruise is even better. Visit some of the best restaurants and pubs for lunch, supper, or dessert, then go sightseeing or shopping. Visit one of Charleston's many museums to learn about the city's rich history, or take the kids to the aquarium. There is so much to list!

You won't be bored in Charleston, SC, so take advantage of everything the city offers.