10 Must-See Places to Visit in Charleston, S.C.

Charleston reveals itself through places that hold memory as much as beauty. Its streets, gardens, and waterfront spaces tell stories of artistry, resilience, and change, inviting visitors to slow down and look closer.

These must-see landmarks offer a deeper understanding of the city, from its creative spirit and civic life to the histories that continue to shape Charleston today.

Historic Dock Street Theatre

Opened in 1736, Historic Dock Street Theatre holds the distinction of being America’s first building created solely for theatrical performances.

Rebuilt and reimagined over centuries, it remains the cultural heart of Charleston, hosting performances, festivals, and artistic life within walls shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and history.

Charleston City Market

Lively and unmistakably Charleston, Charleston City Market has been a gathering place for centuries. Today it buzzes with local artisans, sweetgrass basket makers, and specialty vendors, offering an authentic glimpse into the city’s creative spirit and everyday life.

Waterfront Park

Stretching along the Cooper River, Waterfront Park offers one of the city’s most serene settings. Shaded pathways, breezy swings, and the iconic Pineapple Fountain create a calm retreat where harbor views and gentle tides invite lingering and reflection.

The Battery

Framing the southern tip of the peninsula, The Battery pairs sweeping harbor views with some of the city’s grandest antebellum homes. A walk here reveals Charleston at its most graceful, where sea breezes, history, and architecture meet along the water’s edge.