ATTRACTIONS
Charleston SC

Charleston, SC became a cultural center in the late 1600’s, attracting many colonial actors and musicians. This "living museum" is still acclaimed for it’s contributions to the arts and humanities today. Charleston is home to artists and artisans alike-painters, sculptors, musicians, dancers, actors, photographers, potters, jewelry makers, and basket weavers. With renowned arts organizations such as the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and the Charleston Ballet Theatre, there's always an interesting cultural event to attend. Charleston is home to the first American museum, the Charleston Museum, which opened in 1773. The Gibbes Museum of Art houses an incredible collection of colonial landscape and historical portraits. History buffs will enjoy several notable history and military museums.

But you don’t have to go to a museum to get a feel for Charleston's history; you can find it around every corner in the remarkable historic architecture and sites. Historic tours offer a unique glimpse into Charleston’s past by taking you into the city's, homes, churches, and gardens that are a part of this rich heritage. Don’t miss the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, the many churches that inspired Charleston to be called the "Holy City," and White Point Garden (also known as "The Battery") with cannons still aimed across Charleston Harbor at Fort Sumter. Want to see how Scarlet O’Hara lived? Visit the landmark plantations and gardens open to the public.

Charleston also has a diverse selection of shopping opportunities. Visit the Old City Market to find handmade sweetgrass baskets and other crafts, check out the many interesting specialty shops in the historic district, browse the antique shops and boutiques along King Street or shop such well-known favorites as Saks Fifth Avenue, Laura Ashley, Banana Republic, Williams & Sonoma, Godiva, and Gucci. Whether you choose to shop, take an historic tour or visit a museum, you're sure to enjoy Charleston, SC's many cultural pleasures!