Charleston has that pure “southern charm”. It’s one of the most picturesque cities in the American south, and its palm-lined streets have memorable appeal🌴

I came here with my family to visit Folly Beach, and we spent a few days in the city too. It instantly reminded me of Savannah, although each city has its own unique vibe!

If you are short on time, here are the top things to do and see with just a one day in Charleston itinerary:

Some links in this post are affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you!). 

Charleston City Market – Considered the “most visited attraction” in the city, this public market has been in operation since 1804.

It is essentially an indoor/outdoor market space filled with arts, crafts, and food from a variety of vendors. It covers four city blocks, so you can spend as much time here as you’d like!

⇒ You can also get a feel for the city by trying a horse-drawn carriage sightseeing tour, a guided walking tour, or even a Charleston food tour.

Angel Oak – A Southern Live Oak tree, this is a quick stop but still worth visiting. 🌳

Estimated to be almost 500 years old, it is considered one of the oldest living things in the country. This is a great start to your one day in Charleston itinerary!

⇒ Find your hotel in Charleston🌴

Rainbow Row– This is the name given to a row of 13 historical homes on a scenic street along the water.

When they were restored after going into disrepair after the Civil War, they were painted a variety of pastel colors. These beautiful “Georgian row houses” are now among the most photographed spots in the city.

⇒ Book a local pro photographer for quality photos of your travel group!

Waterfront Park– Historically, this was an area central to the maritime traffic of the city, but nowadays it is mainly recognizable for its iconic pineapple fountain!

There are also stretches of riverfront walkways with swings, and other fun activities for families. 🍍

The Charleston Battery– Once a defensive seawall, it is now a promenade where you can enjoy views of the bay and check out the historic homes around it. You can also explore the nearby White Point Gardens.

City Walking Tour– I’m always an advocate for walking tours when visiting a new city. It’s usually the quickest and most efficient way to see the city on foot, while also understanding its history and culture. 

Aiken-Rhett House– If you’d like a glimpse into life in Charleston before the Civil War, this museum is a good start.

According to their website, “the house and its surviving furnishings offer a compelling portrait of urban life in antebellum Charleston”.

👻 Ghost Tour- A great way to spend your evening is to go on a historic “ghost walk”. Not only are they fun and surprisingly educational, but it’s fascinating to learn about the more morbid history and folktales of a city.

It makes a great evening activity with just one day in Charleston!

Extra time? Here’s what I suggest:

Charleston Harbor (Fort Sumter)– Visit this historic site, part of the National Park Service. This is THE place where the American Civil War is considered to have started. This is only possible to visit via one of their official tour boats!

If history isn’t your thing, you can also take a boat tour of the harbor, or go fishing, and enjoy views of the fort that way.

Folly Beach – I spent a week here with my parents, and it is definitely a classic American beach destination.

You can also explore some other nearby beach towns: Isle of Palms, Kiawah, Seabrook or Sullivan’s Island.

Boone Hall Plantation– This was one of my favorite activities in the area. Once a thriving antebellum plantation with a stunning row of oak trees, it is now a museum and events venue.

Tip: Book your tickets in advance!

You can stroll the grounds, ride a cart around the property, and learn about the lives of the families who lived there.

It also does a great job presenting the stories of the enslaved people and the Gullah heritage of those who lived and worked at this plantation.

Tip: Need transportation? Try out a Boone Hall guided tour with transport out of the city and back. 

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