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South Carolina was important to the Confederacy during the American Civil War. The first state to leave the Union, South Carolina, put itself front and center at the start of the conflict. So it’s no surprise that Charleston Harbor was the first target of aggression. When the militia fired on Fort Sumter, the local (free) population cheered.

Today, this island and the ferry to reach it provide excellent views of the harbor and downtown Charleston.

It’s a perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon riding the waves, watching for dolphins, and scrambling over historic rocks.

While a visit does take quite a bit of time, it is worth the trip. Read on to understand why Fort Sumter consistently joins Rainbow Row and others on the list of Charleston’s top attractions.

sunset over one of the beaches near charleston sc

7 Fantastic Beaches Near Charleston, SC

By chpearson

On February 19, 2023

In Islands near Charleston SC, Things to Do in Charleston SC, Uncategorized, Weekend Getaways in the South

Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its historic homes, its plantations, and its beaches.

History or the natural beauty of the Lowcountry may not be your thing.

In which case, there are still some fantastic beaches near Charleston, SC, to experience.

So read on to find the best places to soak up the sun and enjoy your upcoming beach vacations in Charleston.

Visiting any of these beaches is among the top 10 best things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

house at magnolia plantation and gardens

Why You Need to Visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

By chpearson

On January 25, 2023

In Things to Do in Charleston SC, Uncategorized

Some would argue that Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in Charleston, SC, is a tourist trap.

And maybe it is.

But it’s still worth a visit.

One of the oldest plantations in the country, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens was founded in 1676 by Thomas and Ann Drayton. And 15 generations later, their descendants, the Drayton family, still own the plantation. This beautiful and extensive plantation was the site of many firsts in Charleston, and the country, over the centuries. As such, it should be at the top of your list when visiting Charleston, South Carolina. While the history of the plantation is fascinating, the gardens are world-renowned and worth a visit in their own right.

plantation home at middleton place charleston sc

Middleton Place in Charleston, SC: An Insider’s Guide to a Jewel

By chpearson

On January 16, 2023

In Uncategorized

Middleton Place, in this writer’s opinion, is one of the most gorgeous spots in Charleston, SC.

Middleton Place is a historic South Carolina plantation, located outside of Charleston.

Henry Middleton founded it in 1741, and served as president of the First Continental Congress. Thanks to him and other Middleton family members, the plantation is a National Historic Landmark.

It’s also one of Charleston’s most popular attractions.

Visitors can:

Tour the plantation home

Take a stroll through the beautiful grounds

And visit the museum’s many buildings

All to learn more about the plantation’s history and the lives of the people who lived and worked there.

oaks draped in spanish moss at mcleod plantation historic site

McLeod Plantation Historic Site: Evolution From Plantation to Community Center

By chpearson

On January 10, 2023

In Uncategorized

The plantation house at McLeod Plantation Historic Site

The McLeod Plantation Historic Site is a must-see destination located on James Island.

Just a short drive from historic downtown Charleston, the plantation has a long and complex history. Exhibitions here reflect the city’s role in:

The antebellum South

The Civil War

And the Civil Rights Movement

The McLeod Plantation Historic Site is a top place to explore the past of Charleston, South Carolina. It is also a testament to continuing efforts to preserve and interpret this important piece of American history.

one of several gorgeous plantations in charleston sc

Which Charleston Plantations Do You Need to See?

By chpearson

On January 2, 2023

In Historic Charleston, Things to Do in Charleston SC, Uncategorized

It’s easy to forget there are even more activities just beyond downtown Charleston. But there are plenty of fun things to do near Charleston during your visit. A top recommendation are the beautiful plantations in Charleston, SC.

Each of the plantations in Charleston, SC, are famous in their own right, whether you easily recognize their names or not. Magnolia Plantation, Boone Hall Plantation, Middleton Place, and Drayton Hall all merit a visit. Lump several together and you’ve got yourself a few options for day trips from Charleston, SC.

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Ghost Tours in Charleston, SC

By chpearson

On October 2, 2017

In Historic Charleston, Things to Do in Charleston SC, Uncategorized

When I was little, I was really into ghost stories. As is the case with most people, I loved the adrenaline rush from fear. I also both hated and loved the vagueness of the stories: whether they were real or no.

Later on in life, I had the benefit of living in some of the most haunted places in America. And Charleston, South Carolina, is high on most lists related to hauntings and ghosts. And there are some fantastic ghost tours in Charleston, SC, that take advantage of the depth of local lore.

coffee maker at one of the best charleston coffee shops

11 of the Most Fantastic Charleston Coffee Shops

By chpearson

On May 28, 2017

In Restaurants in Charleston SC, Things to Do in Charleston SC, Uncategorized

The first time I drank coffee, I felt like I could wrestle a pig–literally.

I experienced my first jolt of energy, concentration, and vigor while working at a farm in upstate New York. I had to be dissuaded from wrestling one of the pigs on the farm. Ever since then, I’ve been hooked. For this particular addiction, I moved to the right place. As is the case with any major hipster city, there are more than a few excellent Charleston coffee shops to be found.

the fountain at Hampton Park in Charleston, SC

Is Hampton Park in Charleston, SC, Actually Worth a Trip Up Here?

By chpearson

On May 23, 2017

In Things to Do in Charleston SC, Uncategorized

The best things in life are free.

And if they’re not free, then at least cheap.

And that’s the case with Hampton Park in downtown Charleston, South Carolina.

friends cheering beers at a charleston bar, one of the fun things to do in charleston sc at night

21 of the Most Fun Things to Do in Charleston, SC, at Night

By chpearson

On May 22, 2017

In Things to Do in Charleston SC, Uncategorized

There’s no beating around the bush: Charleston, South Carolina, has a strong connection to alcohol and dining. Most lists of fun things to do in Charleston, SC, at night often feature food and booze at the top of the list.