Searching for the right weekend in Charleston? Right here is our final 3 days in Charleston itinerary that features all one of the best sights and actions!
Charleston, South Carolina, often known as the “Holy Metropolis” is a captivating and historic metropolis located alongside the scenic shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
It’s a preferred vacation spot for weekend getaways, and we’re right here to offer you a great weekend in Charleston itinerary. With 3 days in Charleston, SC, you could have loads of time to get a really feel for town and dip your toes into the historical past, tradition, delicacies, and structure that makes town so charming.
From the enduring French Huguenot Church within the French Quarter, to the colourful homes of Rainbow Row, to the lovable Pineapple Fountain in Joe Riley Waterfront Park, downtown Charleston has ample alternatives for sightseeing and exploring.
The town’s function in American historical past, from the colonial interval to the Civil Conflict, is palpable in its museums, plantations, and historic websites like Fort Sumter.
Ghost excursions, meals excursions, and carriage excursions are all enjoyable methods to discover throughout your 3 days in Charleston, and we’re going to suggest all one of the best excursions, actions, and sights that you simply received’t need to miss.
Even when you’ve got kind of than 3 days in Charleston, SC, you should use this information as a base on your exploration of town whereas modifying it as crucial. So get pleasure from this 3 days in Charleston itinerary, it’s really a beautiful metropolis that ought to be on everybody’s USA bucket listing.
Don’t miss our full listing of the finest issues to do in Charleston!
The Good 3 Days In Charleston Itinerary
Right here is the right 3 days in Charleston itinerary! Whether or not you’re driving into city or arriving at Charleston Worldwide Airport, your weekend in Charleston goes to be action-packed.
From sampling native treats at Charleston Metropolis Market, to touring Magnolia Plantation, to bar-hopping down Philadelphia Alley and admiring Rainbow Row, there are such a lot of superb sights awaiting you within the Holy Metropolis.
Day 1 in Charleston, SC
Spend the primary day of your Charleston itinerary exploring the French Quarter and sightseeing close to Rainbow Row and the waterfront. Within the afternoon, hop on a ferry and glide via the Charleston Harbor in your manner over to Fort Sumter, the historic spot the place the Civil Conflict started. End up the night with an thrilling ghost tour via the historic metropolis.
Morning – French Quarter, Rainbow Row, and Joe Riley Waterfront Park
Start the morning with some peaceable sightseeing close to the waterfront. The French Quarter is the right place to start! Admire the gorgeous structure and landmarks within the historic French Quarter earlier than persevering with in direction of Rainbow Row and the Joe Riley Waterfront Park, dwelling to the well-known Pineapple Fountain.
French Quarter
The French Quarter in Charleston, SC is famend for its charming cobblestone streets, well-preserved antebellum structure, and vibrant cultural scene. Named for the affect of the French Huguenots who settled within the space in the course of the late seventeenth century, the French Quarter exudes a timeless magnificence with its historic buildings and wrought-iron balconies.
One of many notable landmarks is the French Huguenot Church, a Gothic Revival-style construction that stands as a testomony to the French heritage. The French Quarter can also be dwelling to a various array of artwork galleries, boutiques, and eating places, making it a hub for each historical past fans and people searching for a complicated mix of Southern appeal and French-inspired attract.
Discover extra French-inspired structure within the US with a go to to New Orleans!
Pink Home Gallery
The Pink Home Gallery is a novel gallery nestled in Charleston’s historic French Quarter. Housed inside one of many metropolis’s oldest constructions, often called the Pink Home, this gallery showcases a various assortment of latest and conventional artworks, that includes items by each native and worldwide artists.
Previous Slave Mart Museum
The Previous Slave Mart Museum in Charleston, SC stands as a poignant reminder of town’s advanced historical past and its function within the transatlantic slave commerce. Positioned on Chalmers Road within the historic district, the museum is housed in what was as soon as one of many largest antebellum slave public sale complexes within the South.
At this time, the Previous Slave Mart Museum is devoted to preserving and educating guests about this darkish chapter in American historical past. The museum reveals artifacts, paperwork, and interactive shows that make clear the tough realities of the slave commerce and the resilience of those that endured it. A go to to the Previous Slave Mart Museum offers a somber but important alternative for reflection and understanding of Charleston’s previous.
Rainbow Row
Rainbow Row is a must-see on any Charleston itinerary! Positioned alongside East Bay Road, Rainbow Row is without doubt one of the most photographed and recognizable landmarks within the metropolis. The 13 distinct houses, relationship again to the 18th century, function numerous vibrant colours, therefore the identify “Rainbow Row”.
Strolling alongside Rainbow Row gives a fascinating journey via Charleston’s architectural heritage, offering guests with a pleasant and Instagram-worthy expertise. The colourful facades towards the backdrop of cobblestone streets make Rainbow Row a must-visit vacation spot, capturing the essence of town’s appeal and Southern hospitality.
Joe Riley Waterfront Park
After seeing Rainbow Row, proceed strolling in direction of Charleston Harbor and spend a while in Joe Riley Waterfront Park. This picturesque oasis alongside the banks of the Cooper River was named after Joseph P. Riley Jr., the long-serving mayor of Charleston. Waterfront Park is a beloved inexperienced area that provides beautiful views of the river, the Ravenel Bridge, and the harbor.
Pineapple Fountain
The Pineapple Fountain is a well-known Charleston, SC landmark in Waterfront Park on the Cooper River. The Pineapple Fountain is a logo of heat, hospitality, and town’s wealthy cultural heritage. That includes a big bronze pineapple, Pineapple Fountain showcases a conventional Southern image of welcome, from which water cascades right into a round pool.
Afternoon – Ferry trip via Charleston Harbor to Fort Sumter
Proceed day 1 of your weekend in Charleston itinerary with a ferry trip throughout the harbor to the historic Fort Sumter.
Fort Sumter, located in Charleston Harbor, holds a major place in American historical past as the location the place the primary pictures of the American Civil Conflict have been fired on April 12, 1861. The fort, initially constructed as a part of coastal protection, consists of brick partitions and is perched on a man-made island on the entrance to the harbor.
Accessible by boat, Fort Sumter is now a Nationwide Historic Park and a compelling vacation spot for historical past fans. Guests can discover the grounds at Fort Sumter, which embrace the unique gun emplacements, cannons, and the enduring flagpole marking the situation the place the Civil Conflict first pictures have been exchanged between Accomplice forces and Union troops.
Fort Sumter additionally homes a museum providing reveals and artifacts that present insights into the occasions main as much as the Civil Conflict. A visit to Fort Sumter not solely gives a glimpse right into a pivotal second in American historical past but in addition offers panoramic views of Charleston Harbor, making it a stunning expertise to incorporate in any weekend in Charleston.
Night – Ghost Tour or Haunted Carriage Experience via downtown Charleston, SC
End up day 1 of your weekend in Charleston, SC with an exciting journey via town’s haunted historical past. Let a neighborhood tour information lead you thru town after darkish, sharing haunting tales and legends of the world.
Excursions typically consists of visits to seemingly haunted landmarks such because the Previous Change and Provost Dungeon or the Unitarian Church Graveyard, every with its personal eerie anecdotes. Charleston’s well-preserved historic structure and centuries of tumultuous historical past present the right backdrop for these tales of the paranormal.
An alternative choice is to go for a carriage trip on a haunted night tour. As a substitute of strolling via the historic metropolis, you possibly can cruise via Charleston, SC on an vintage horse-drawn carriage tour whereas studying concerning the eerie historical past. It is a tremendous enjoyable and fascinating method to spend a night throughout your 3 days in Charleston itinerary!
Day 2 in Charleston, SC
Subsequent up in your weekend in Charleston, discover the guts of the Historic District. From the bustling King Road, to the delights of the Charleston Metropolis Market, to the varied museums and sights, you’re going to be saved busy whereas exploring downtown!
Morning – King Road and different highlights of the Historic District
Begin your day with a stroll down King Road, adopted by Assembly Road and Marion Sq.. Then you possibly can go to some native museums, and study concerning the metropolis’s historical past throughout your Charleston itinerary!
King Road
King Road is the beating coronary heart of downtown Charleston, South Carolina. Lined with iconic pastel-hued buildings relationship again centuries, this bustling thoroughfare serves as a dynamic hub for buying, eating, and exploration.
Elegant boutiques, artwork galleries, and famend eating places are throughout King Road, providing guests and locals an array of experiences. Even simply strolling down King Road and taking photographs is a memorable expertise as a result of it’s so scenic! King Road is a must-see on any Charleston itinerary.
Assembly Road
Working parallel to King Road is Assembly Road, one other spotlight of the Historic District.
Named for the historic significance of gatherings and assemblies that after befell alongside its path, Assembly Road is adorned with grand antebellum mansions, stately church buildings, and charming gardens, every whispering tales of the previous.
Assembly Road additionally serves as a conduit for town’s cultural heritage, internet hosting museums, galleries, and establishments that commemorate Charleston’s wealthy inventive and historic legacy.
Marion Sq.
Named after Revolutionary Conflict hero Francis Marion, this sq. is a hub for socializing and stress-free throughout a Charleston weekend itinerary. Have a seat in Marion Sq. and calm down below an imposing oak tree as you regain your power for extra sightseeing in your self-guided strolling tour.
Charleston Farmers Market can also be held in Marion Sq.. So in case your Charleston itinerary falls on a weekend, spend your Saturday purchasing for native produce and crafts on the Charleston Farmers Market!
Learn subsequent: 16 Finest Issues To Do In Greenville, South Carolina
The Charleston Museum
Remember to go to some museums in your Charleston itinerary to study concerning the native historical past and tradition. The Charleston Museum was based in 1773 and is America’s first museum!
Housed inside a sublime antebellum constructing, the museum’s numerous collections showcase artifacts, reveals, and interactive shows spanning centuries of Charleston’s historical past. From Native American artifacts and colonial-era treasures to Civil Conflict relics and Gullah tradition, the Charleston Museum offers a glimpse of the area’s previous.
Aiken Rhett Home Museum
The Aiken-Rhett Home Museum showcases the grandeur of the antebellum South. Constructed within the early nineteenth century, this historic landmark gives guests a uncommon glimpse into the lives of Charleston’s elite in the course of the peak of town’s prosperity.
Impeccably preserved, the mansion has beautiful structure, lavish interiors, and meticulously curated collections. The Aiken-Rhett Home Museum is an fascinating place to study what life was like in the course of the early days of Charleston, South Carolina.
As a cherished cultural treasure, the Aiken-Rhett Home Museum gives a compelling narrative of the Previous South, inviting visitors to discover its wealthy historical past and legacy.
Afternoon – Charleston Metropolis Market or Meals Tour
Spend the afternoon wandering across the iconic Charleston Metropolis Market. A bustling hub of exercise within the coronary heart of downtown, the Charleston Metropolis Market is usually a favourite spot of those that have visited Charleston!
Spanning 4 metropolis blocks, this historic metropolis market dates again to the late 18th century and continues to thrive as a vibrant heart of commerce and tradition. For those who’re seeking to purchase some souvenirs and style the native delicacies throughout your weekend in Charleston, there isn’t a higher place to be than Charleston Metropolis Market!
For the die-hard foodies, you possibly can additionally be part of a guided meals tour. Embark on a enjoyable strolling tour of town with a educated native information, go to one of the best native institutions and culinary landmarks, and pattern all of the really useful treats of Charleston! From she crab soup to grits and Charleston benne wafers, there’s a lot meals to attempt in South Carolina.
Night – Folly Seashore
To wind down day 2 of your weekend in Charleston itinerary, take a small tour over to Folly Seashore. Positioned only a 20-minute drive from downtown Charleston, Folly Seashore is an exquisite place to calm down on the sand, go for a swim, and watch the sundown over the ocean.
Folly Seashore, affectionately often called the “Fringe of America,” has a laid-back environment and coastal appeal. It’s situated on a barrier island subsequent to the Atlantic Ocean, and guests love its enjoyable browsing waves and delicate golden sands.
The bustling Folly Seashore Pier is a good spot for fishing, strolling, and breathtaking ocean views, whereas the quaint city heart boasts eclectic outlets, cozy cafes, and full of life seaside bars. You’ll be able to simply watch the sundown with a cocktail after which head again to the resort, or take pleasure in a little bit of bar hopping in Folly Seashore. Both manner, it’s a stunning method to finish day 2 of your weekend in Charleston itinerary.
Day 3 in Charleston, SC
It’s the ultimate day of your weekend in Charleston, SC! Take as we speak to enterprise out of town heart and go to fascinating sights on the outskirts of Charleston like Magnolia Plantation, Cypress Gardens, and Boone Corridor.
Then end up your weekend in Charleston with some enjoyable bar-hopping on Philadelphia Alley or Chalmers Road. It’s going to be an epic finish to your 3 days in Charleston!
Morning – Magnolia Plantation
Positioned alongside the banks of the Ashley River, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens showcase the beautiful Southern heritage and pure magnificence.
Established within the early seventeenth century, Magnolia Plantation gives guests a fascinating glimpse into the Lowcountry’s previous. The landscaped gardens mixed with the centuries-old plantation houses and slave quarters memorialize the world’s historical past and present what life was like for everybody on Magnolia Plantation again within the day.
Guided excursions provide perception into the plantation’s advanced legacy, whereas wildlife excursions and boat rides alongside the Ashley River present alternatives for additional exploration. Magnolia Plantation is a sublime sight on the Ashley River, and it compels reflection concerning the darkish days of slavery within the US.
Afternoon – Cypress Gardens or Boone Corridor
Subsequent in your weekend in Charleston itinerary, go to one other attraction outdoors town. You won’t have time for each Boone Corridor and Cypress Gardens, so that you may need to simply choose one relying on how lengthy you need to spend at every place.
Cypress Gardens
The beautiful Cypress Gardens are an exquisite tour from the Holy Metropolis. Filled with majestic cypress swamps, blooming gardens, and serene blackwater lakes, Cypress Gardens is a haven for outside fans and nature lovers alike.
Guests can discover the tranquil waters by kayak or flat-bottom boat, gliding beneath the cover of historical cypress timber adorned with Spanish moss.
The gardens themselves are a botanical wonderland, that includes colourful blooms, winding pathways, and peaceable gazebos supreme for quiet reflection.
Boone Corridor
Boone Corridor Plantation, situated in Mount Nice simply outdoors of Charleston, was based in 1681 and is considered one of America’s oldest working plantations.
The plantation’s iconic “Avenue of Oaks” serves as an imposing entryway, main guests to the principle home and providing a glimpse into the grandeur of the Previous South.
Past its historic significance, Boone Corridor offers immersive experiences that delve into the complexities of plantation life, together with guided excursions of the mansion, interactive reveals, and demonstrations of Gullah tradition.
With its scenic vistas, wealthy heritage, and dedication to training and preservation, Boone Corridor Plantation is a cool place to go to on any weekend in Charleston itinerary.
Night – Bar Hopping
End off your weekend in Charleston sturdy with an evening out in town! The nightlife in Charleston is unimaginable, and chances are you’ll even need to exit each evening of your 3 days in Charleston when you’ve got the power. In any other case, simply dedicate one evening to bar hopping alongside the energetic streets.
You may also use this as a chance to walk down any standard avenues that you will have missed throughout your daytime sightseeing.
Philadelphia Alley, Chalmers Road, Bay Road, Broad Road, and Market Road are all scenic roads which are charming at any time of day. You may also discover numerous bars, pubs, and venues alongside these bustling streets. Higher King Road is thought for its stylish bars and rooftop venues providing panoramic views of town skyline.
Be sure you put on comfortable sneakers on your last evening of exploration round Charleston, SC!
Planning to discover North Carolina? Try our final Asheville itinerary!
When you’ve got extra time in Charleston…
3 days in Charleston can go by in a flash, and also you’ve solely scratched the floor of the superb issues to do on this vibrant metropolis. Different sights within the metropolis heart embrace the South Carolina Aquarium, Nathaniel Russell Home, Calhoun Mansion, White Level Backyard, Gibbes Museum or Artwork, and extra.
When you’ve got extra time to spare, undoubtedly think about testing extra of the South Carolina coast!
Sullivan’s Island is a superb day journey from town. Identified for its picturesque seashores, full of life downtown space, Civil Conflict landmarks, and the historic Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse which has guided mariners because the late nineteenth century, Sullivan’s Island is a gem on the Atlantic.
Kiawah Island boasts miles of unspoiled shoreline, supreme for nature lovers searching for tranquillity and seclusion amidst beautiful pure magnificence. For these prepared to enterprise a bit additional, Isle of Palms gives vast sandy seashores, scenic boardwalks, and a number of water actions, making it a preferred alternative for households and outside fans.
However even when you solely have a weekend in Charleston, hopefully our itinerary has given you the absolute best introduction to the Holy Metropolis!
Charleston, South Carolina Journey Information
Now that you simply’ve deliberate out your Charleston itinerary, you possibly can take into consideration the opposite logistics. We’re going to run via some primary journey journeys for Charleston, together with when is one of the best time to go to, how one can get across the metropolis, and the place to remain.
Learn subsequent: The 50 BEST Issues to Do in North Carolina
When is one of the best time to go to Charleston, South Carolina
The very best time to go to Charleston, South Carolina, largely will depend on private preferences and the kind of expertise you search. Nevertheless, many guests discover the spring months, from March to Might, to be one of the best by way of climate for a weekend in Charleston.
Throughout spring, the climate is gentle and nice, with blooming flowers and a refreshing breeze. Spring in Charleston, SC gives snug temperatures, starting from the 60s to the 70s Fahrenheit, making it supreme for exploring town’s historic streets, gardens, and waterfront.
Moreover, spring marks the start of pageant season in Charleston, with occasions such because the Spoleto Competition USA showcasing town’s vibrant cultural scene.
The autumn months in Charleston, SC, from September to November, are additionally a superb time to spend a weekend in Charleston. Throughout fall, the summer time warmth begins to subside, and temperatures turn into extra reasonable, starting from the 70s to the 80s Fahrenheit.
The autumn foliage provides a contact of colour to town’s historic landscapes, making a picturesque setting for guests. Fall is a good time to get pleasure from outside actions, stroll alongside the cobblestone streets, and savor the famend Southern delicacies at native eateries.
Whether or not you select the blossoming spring or the colourful fall, each seasons provide distinctive alternatives to discover Charleston’s wealthy historical past, structure, and cultural choices.
Find out how to get round Charleston, South Carolina
Getting round throughout your weekend in Charleston, South Carolina is comparatively straightforward because of town’s compact dimension and varied transportation choices.
One of the crucial standard methods to discover the historic downtown space is by strolling. Charleston’s well-preserved cobblestone streets and charming structure make for a pleasant stroll. Charleston’s historic district is pedestrian-friendly, permitting guests to leisurely wander via the slim alleys, historic neighborhoods, and alongside the scenic waterfront.
Guided bus excursions and strolling excursions are additionally a good way to discover town with the steering and knowledgeable data of a neighborhood! Excursions are superb for solo travellers as nicely who need to meet folks whereas visiting Charleston, SC.
For these on the lookout for a handy and environment friendly mode of transportation, the Charleston Space Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a dependable public bus system. The bus routes cowl varied components of town and lengthen to close by areas, providing an inexpensive method to journey.
Moreover, rideshare providers like Uber and Lyft are available in Charleston, offering handy door-to-door transportation. Whereas parking is usually a problem within the downtown space, particularly throughout peak hours, there are a number of parking garages and plenty out there for individuals who choose to discover town by automobile.
The easiest way to get round is to hire a automobile and discover by yourself! We suggest Rental Vehicles, which has the most important vary of automobiles for one of the best worth available on the market.
The place to remain in Charleston, South Carolina
For those who’re on the lookout for someplace to remain throughout your Charleston weekend itinerary, we’ve acquired you lined. Listed here are some top-rated resort choices for travellers in Charleston, SC. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for an inexpensive finances resort or a lavish resort, there are many nice choices proper in downtown Charleston, SC!
Finest Finances Lodging in Charleston, SC – Candlewood Suites Charleston
The very best place to remain on a finances for 3 days in Charleston is Candlewood Suites Charleston, run by the IHG resort group. Positioned simply 2 miles from the historic metropolis heart, this finances resort places you within the good location for an inexpensive and handy 3 days in Charleston itinerary.
Every room has a totally geared up kitchen and Free Wifi, and there’s a patio space with BBQs so you possibly can sit outdoors and revel in that South Carolina sunshine.
Finest Mid-Vary Lodging in Charleston, SC – Hampton Inn Charleston Historic District
The Hampton Inn Charleston Historic District is one other glorious resort choice for a weekend in Charleston. This upscale resort is situated proper within the coronary heart of the French Quarter, proper off King Road and inside strolling distance of all one of the best sights and sights.
The historic constructing itself is beautiful, full with an outside swimming pool, free scorching breakfast, and trendy facilities proper within the metropolis heart.
Finest Luxurious Lodging in Charleston, SC – Harbourview Inn
These on the lookout for luxurious once they go to Charleston can keep at Harbourview Inn, a sublime, boutique resort with views of the harbour. With glorious service, beautiful rooms, and additional perks like free snacks, espresso, iced tea, and a free afternoon wine and cheese reception and rooftop skyline tour, staying at this resort is an expertise in and of itself!
Plus, you’re situated proper subsequent to all one of the best downtown sights, making it the right place to spend 3 days in Charleston, South Carolina.
DISCLAIMER: Among the hyperlinks on this article are affiliate hyperlinks, which implies when you e book lodging, excursions or purchase a product, we’ll obtain a small fee at no additional price to you. These commissions assist us preserve creating extra free journey content material to assist folks plan their holidays and adventures. We solely suggest one of the best lodging, excursions and merchandise that ourselves or our incredible editorial workforce have personally skilled, and commonly overview these. Thanks on your assist, type good friend!
