The Top 7 Things to Do and See in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina
- Fort Sumter. Park. View. © Danita Delimont / Alamy Stock Photo.
- Charleston City Market. Market. View.
- Joe Riley Waterfront Park. Park. View.
- South Carolina Aquarium. Aquarium. View.
- The Battery. Park. View.
- Folly Beach. Natural Feature. View.
Contents
What was the city of Charleston known for?
Holy City
Known as the “Holy City”, for its long tolerance for religions of all types, Charleston is the state’s most beautiful and historic treasure. Charleston has had a starring role in South Carolina history since its founding more than 300 years ago.
What’s considered downtown Charleston?
When many speak of Charleston, they are referencing its Downtown, otherwise known as The Peninsula. However, it officially includes areas that are outline on their own throughout the website: West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island and Daniel Island as well as the Cainhoy Peninsula.
What is the famous street in Charleston?
One of America’s most visually spectacular avenues, King Street runs from Charleston Harbor to uptown, with three sections rightly known for shopping opportunities — the Design District on Upper King, the Fashion District on Middle King, and the Antique District on Lower King.
Why is Charleston so popular?
With its cobblestone walkways, incredible historic sites, world-class restaurants and miles of stunning beaches, hundreds of new residents are moving to Charleston, S.C.—and for very good reason. Charleston has been named Travel & Leisure’s top city in the entire U.S. for many years in a row.
What is Charleston known for food?
20 Iconic Charleston Dishes and Drinks and Their History
- She Crab Soup. She crab soup is a crab soup that has a “little something extra.” Orange roe tops this soup to make it specifically a soup made of female crabs.
- Shrimp and Grits.
- Cornbread.
- Planters Punch.
- Hush Puppies.
- Frogmore Stew.
- Fried Green Tomatoes.
- Okra Soup.
What makes Charleston SC special?
For a long time, Charleston’s had a reputation as a specimen of the antebellum South trapped in amber, but in recent years it has transformed into one of the top travel destinations in the world, drawing in visitors with its horse-drawn carriages, cobblestone streets, award-winning restaurants, beautiful sandy beaches
Why is it called Rainbow Row?
Rainbow Row is the name for a series of thirteen colorful historic houses in Charleston, South Carolina.The name Rainbow Row was coined after the pastel colors they were painted as they were restored in the 1930s and 1940s. It is a popular tourist attraction and is one of the most photographed parts of Charleston.
Is downtown Charleston the same as the historic district?
Charleston’s downtown Historic District is located in the southern tip of peninsula Charleston. This area stretches from Calhoun Street southward to the Battery, White Point Garden, and the harbor. Many newer hotels can be found in upper downtown Charleston – the northern part of downtown above Calhoun Street.
Where are the cobblestone streets in Charleston?
Chalmers Street, nestled in the French Quarter, is definitely the most well-known, and photographed, cobblestone street in the city. It’s also long been called Labor Lane, as rumor has it that way-back-when, a ride on the rockiest of roads caused nine-month-pregnant women to go into labor.
What street is downtown Charleston?
With its remarkable history and eclectic mix of fashion, art, antiques, home décor, and extraordinary food, King Street is the most vibrant and distinctive downtown in America. King Street is a perfect blend of local, regional, and national shops that remains the place to be for retailers of all types.
What is the most beautiful street in Charleston SC?
Escape Post-Election Stress by Exploring Charleston’s Most Beautiful Streets
- Legare St.
- Entrance road to Botany Bay Plantation.
- Arthur Ravenel Jr.
- Church St.
- King St from Spring to Broad.
- Longitude Lane off East Bay St. South of Broad.
- Ashley River Rd between Bees Ferry and Summerville. West Ashley.
- Gateway Walk. Downtown.
What is the main shopping street in Charleston?
King Street
The small boutiques and century-old family businesses on King Street are the reason Charleston’s most recognizable thoroughfare is one of the 10 Best Shopping Streets in the U.S. These locally owned businesses offer unique home goods, jewelry, and clothing that you won’t find anywhere else.
Why are Charleston houses built sideways?
When the city’s first streets were laid out in 1680, residential lots were long and deep but had little street frontage. Placing the house sideways on the lot made the best use of space. This also allowed the home to take full advantage of the prevailing southerly breezes, necessary in the hot summer climate.
Is Charleston a walkable city?
Charleston is known for its slow pace. That means that many Charlestonians choose to walk or bike around the city instead of hopping in a car — especially in the historic downtown area. Luckily, most of our tourist attractions are also accessible without a car.
What is the nicest part of Charleston SC?
Best Neighborhoods to Live in Charleston, SC
- Grimball Gates. Grimball Gates has the quintessential Lowcountry appeal.
- Downtown.
- Harleston Village.
- Stiles Point.
- West Ashley.
- Summerville.
- Mount Pleasant.
- Kiawah Island.
What dessert is Charleston SC known for?
Charleston’s Iconic Desserts
- Port Citrus Poached Pear, 39 Rue De Jean.
- Carrot Cake Fritters, Charleston Grill.
- Almond Semifreddo, FIG.
- Whiskey Bread Pudding, Halls Chophouse.
- Banana Cream Pie, Hank’s Seafood.
- Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée, High Cotton.
- Buttermilk Pie, Hominy Grill.
What drink is South Carolina known for?
SC State Hospitality Beverage – Tea
In 1995, South Carolina’s General Assembly determined that since tea is the “world’s most popular beverage” – besides water, of course – it should serve as the state hospitality beverage. Act Number 31 was soon ratified, making this an official symbol of our state.
What is Charleston SC nickname?
Holy City
Holy City: Charleston’s designation stems from the numerous church steeples dotting its downtown skyline, as well as being one of the only cities in the original 13 colonies to welcome members of the French Huguenot Church.
Is downtown Charleston SC Safe?
Downtown Charleston near the Historic District is generally safe and best known for its Southern hospitality. However, it’s still a busy city and visitors should use common sense when exploring. Avoid walking alone at night (especially in the city’s many alleyways) and keep valuables close to you.
How popular is Charleston?
Charleston is the first domestic destination to earn the coveted No. 1 City in the World ranking. This is the fourth consecutive year Charleston is ranked the No. 1 City in the United States and Canada.
