Charleston, SC: A History Enthusiast’s Haven

The Charleston Museum - For a comprehensive overview of the complex historical and cultural significance of Charleston from its colonial days to the present, The Charleston Museum is a great place to start. And if you’re inspired to dive a little deeper into the topics introduced by The Charleston Museum, check out the other recommendations below!

Fort Sumter - For an immersive experience exploring the ruins of a Civil War-era military fort with unmatched views of Charleston Harbor and the unique city skyline, a tour hosted by the National Park Service to Fort Sumter is a must.

Visit the Hunley - The Hunley was the first successful combat submarine in the world, revolutionizing naval warfare with innovative engineering. The Friends of the Hunley offer an educational museum experience highlighting the history of the Hunley, the mystery of its disappearance and the conservation efforts to preserve the submarine. A visit to the Hunley is a great experience for history buffs as well as those interested in scientific excavation and conservation processes.

International African American Museum - A visit to the International African American Museum is a powerful way to learn about the African American experience and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history and culture of this community through interactive exhibits and inspiring personal stories of resilience and determination.

Historic Houses - There are a number of historical houses in Charleston that have been restored and are open to the public for a visit. My favorites include The Nathaniel-Russel House and The Heyward-Washington House. Covering a range of architectural styles, the historical homes of Charleston offer a rich glimpse into the varied daily lives of Charlestonians from different classes and cultural backgrounds while providing insight into the restoration and preservation process.

The Battery & White Point Garden - Take in panoramic views of Charleston Harbor, including Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney and Sullivan's Island Lighthouse from The Battery and White Point Garden. Then stroll around monuments, statues and cannons to explore Charleston’s military past under a cooling canopy of live oak trees. This is a wonderful location for a picnic or morning to-go coffee.

The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon - To round out a solid history tour of Charleston, a visit to the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon is a must. The basement of the building served as a British prison during the American Revolutionary War and many American patriots, including three signers of the Declaration of Independence, were held in its dimly lit, damp confines. Above “the dungeon,” the main floors of this Georgian building have served Charleston in many ways throughout history as a hub of commerce and the location ratification of the U.S. Constitution in South Carolina. It is now a museum operated by The Daughters of the American Revolution and brimming with interesting artifacts.

Magnolia Cemetery - Magnolia Cemetery provides a scenic and peaceful reprieve from the excitement of downtown Charleston. As the final resting place for many prominent historical figures with ties to Charleston, the cemetery provides a unique opportunity to experience the city’s history. Bonus points for a visit during spooky season!

Take a ghost tour - I highly recommend scheduling an after-dark “Haunted Carriage Tour” hosted by Old South Carriage Co. The carriage tour covers a lot of spooky ground so riders can sit back and let their imaginations run wild about the haunted sites they visit.

Day trips

• Savannah — only 90 miles away!

• Sullivan’s Island

• Fort Moultrie

• Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

• Middleton Place

Fleet Landing - Situated in Historic Downtown Charleston, Fleet Landing offers waterfront harbor views and a fabulous raw bar. A great retreat on a hot day for a cold beverage – The Charleston Sunset is delicious! — and a snack of hush puppies with a stack of fried green tomatoes.

Oyster House - Another great stop for a beverage and a snack is Oyster House. Carolina and other regional oysters are on offer as well as pimento cheese fritters and delicious southern fare.

Blind Tiger Pub - Blind Tiger Pub’s Sunday brunch menu provides an array of sweet and savory options to energize a Sunday spent exploring Charleston. The standard menu includes a mix of pub and southern favorites. The Blind Tiger also stands out as a great spot for watching the game, enjoying a beer and ordering a favorite off their dedicated “Tailgate Menu.”

Tommy Condon’s Irish Pub - Stepping into Tommy Condon’s feels like being transported. The authentic Irish memorabilia and antique mirrors that cover every inch of the walls create a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying a beer and a basket of fish and chips. With live music nightly and a menu combining hearty southern and Irish bites, Tommy Condon’s is a great place to end the night.

Poogan’s Porch - Delicious Southern cuisine served in a beautifully restored bright yellow Victorian house. Poogan’s Porch offers brunch, lunch and dinner — the she-crab soup is a must-have no matter the time of day and the best in the city in my opinion.

Hyman’s Seafood - Hyman’s has a rich 134-year family history which led to the opening of Hyman’s Seafood in 1987. The menu is robust, featuring just about every seafood item imaginable. The standouts include their shrimp and grits, salmon or chilean sea bass croquettes, crab cakes and fried green tomatoes. For the adventurous eater: try an appetizer of gator tail sausage.

Leon’s Oyster Shop - Fried chicken and oysters, what more could one ask for? A beer or refreshing glass of wine, maybe. All of which Leon’s does wonderfully.

Oak Steakhouse - For a date night or special occasion, Oak Steakhouse is the right choice. Atmospheric and located on Broad Street, Oak Steakhouse offers an expansive selection of wine to pair with world-famous steaks or seafood dishes and family-style, comfort-food sides.

167 Raw Oyster Bar - And finally, another spectacular oyster spot for lunch, dinner or a snack in between. 167 Raw offers New England charm in the heart of Historic Downtown Charleston serving an array of classic and spiced up seafood options with a delightfully specific wine list and classic cocktails.