Map of Charleston — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info (2024)

5 lists

This starts with a nice relaxing ferry ride to the island. We loved sitting on the deck outside and looking at the water and the city. Once we arrived at Fort Sumter, we were giving a brief overview by one of the Rangers about the monument. The Rangers are extremely knowledgeable and can answer almost any questions. There is a lot of history there and it is interesting to learn. It’s well preserved a great addition to our Charleston trip. We probably would not go back again but we were glad we went once.

The tour of Fort Sumter was the perfect length at approximately an hour. We took the first tour at 9:30 and I highly recommend it. It is cooler and better yet we rode with all the docents! Ranger Walter gave the history of the Fort and the area. It is mostly preserved in its mostly destroyed state. Restoring it imo would take away from the story.

Must do experience while in Charleston. I must admit spending time on the water to and from the island was half the reason I visited Fort Sumter. The views of the Battery, Ravenal Bridge, and Sullivan's Island from the ferry were stunning. Knowledgeable guides and a very well written brochure provided more background and history than could be absorbed for one day. Next time I'd like to go early and stay late, so I could spend more time in the museum. The sound system can't compete with the engine and the waves. More speakers on board are needed to be able to actually hear the park ranger clearly. Old and young alike catch just enough snippets to be tantalized without being informed. Also, the web site refers to a garage on the Charleston side without providing a map or the cost of parking, so we opted for Patriots Park on the Mt Pleasant side for $5. All in all, the excursion was well worth the time and money. I'll make time for a fourth trip when I can make a day of it. Fascinating, really.

This is a must do exhibit if you visit the Charleston area. You have a brief ferry trip to the monument. As you arrive, you can see the stations of where the cannons were pointing outward. The fort itself is well preserved and it’s history is very fascinating. Quick tip: You can take part in the “raising” and lowering of the American flag if you are on either the 9:00 or 4:00 tours. The overall tour was quite informative and pleasant.

While it was one of the hottest days, the Ferry ride and the Fort were amazing. Because we were on the first tour of the day, they needed help raising the garrison flag. I didn't hold the flag but I got to witness my family participating. Bring a water bottle, they have refill fountains at the fort.

The ferry ride to Fort Sumter is pleasant and relaxing. When we got to the fort, we had to wait almost 15 minutes for the ferry in front of us to load and depart before we could disembark and explore the fort, and our time was cut short because of it. My advice, please plan to get back to the ferry on time so others may have the same experience. Other then being rushed, it was a great experience, hearing the story of the history of the fort was fascinating, and the museum was packed full of information and artifacts.

Ft Sumter Is Beautiful a lot of cool history!I recommend you take the Last Ferry of the day you also will have a chance to take down the flag and fold it when arriving at the island for the last Trip!Very beautiful place and the museum is pretty cool!

Essential American history expedition. Park Rangers were knowledgeable and did a great job sharing both Union and Confederate viewpoints to give the complete story of one of the pivotal places in our nation’s history.

First, the 30 min ferry ride was relaxing and informational. We were able to spot dolphins several times during the ride. The historic Fort itself is wonderful to explore. They have a museum which explains the history of the Fort and displays historic artifacts. The flag raising ceremony (first trip only) was also very meaningful. Restrooms were clean and well maintained. There’s also a tiny gift store at the fort.

Nice relaxing and informative boat ride out. We were the first tour of the day so we got to see the raising of the flag. Amazing when coupled with the history of the fort. The young lady who gave us the history was amazing at her job. I teared up a couple times. (I'm like that with some history things I guess.) When arriving and going to the flag pole, and continued history, it knocks out 10-15 minute from the hour that you have, The only thing I would like to see is an extra half hour to tour the grounds more. Other than that it was well worth the time and ticket to get there!!

Great place to soak in history. Wish we had a bit more time to get around and read all the plaques and fully experience the museum.

As a history nerd, this monument literally makes me giddy. I spent several hours exploring this place boring my poor parents with every random fact I know. It is definitely worth the trip if you know the history. Even if you don't know the history, it is still pretty darn cool. I mean, who doesn't love old abandoned forts and cannons?

A great experience!! I wish the ferry options allowed for a longer visit, as it did feel rushed. You get about an hour to explore, however I would have probably wanted 2 hours to really immerse myself and read all the history. Also, the ferry will cost you $30+ per person just as a heads up.

Wonderful place, can feel the past come alive here. The ferry ride gives you a chance to see other ships too. Currently a ticket is $35.. Note to park in the lot for the ferry, is $5 same as it has been the last 10+ years.

Visited on a Wednesday afternoon - rode the ferry ($37/person) to Fort Sumter, stayed an hour on the island, then rode back.There was a 10 minute history presentation by a ranger upon arrival, and the rangers were available for questions during the visit.Cool to see the cannons, brick walls, etc. But I personally felt it was an overpriced experience.Would recommend for anyone interested in historical monuments.

4 lists

Beautiful mansion with intact kitchen, carriage house, and salve quarters. All this in downtown Charleston. Wonderful audio tour to guide you through the rooms. I truly wish this property would change from preserved to restored 😪 . However, it is still totally worth a visit.

Great tour. Take headphones for your phone and use the Historic Charleston app for self guided tour. House has been preserved not restored. Very interesting. Great stories of the people who were slaves here.

What a great museum! We went on a Sunday at 2pm and there was no line. Download the audio guide before going as their WiFi is spotty. Plan at least an hour. The audio guide is one of the best I've ever experienced! The museum itself is a must-see. I love that you get a complete picture of life back then. You visit the opulent house and also the living quarters of the slaves. You learn about the lives of both. One didn't exist without the other, so I appreciate the balanced view.

The beauty of this house is that it lays relatively untouched by man. Rather than restoring this relic, it has been preserved. This unique experience let's you see the potential... The bones and tattered remains of a once glorious house. Even more impressive is the historical accounts of both the estate owner as well as the slaves and their conditions. There's an eerie quality to the place. Think abandoned home rich with history and a glimpse into a broken past.Tips: Go on a cool day or in the cool of the day (no AC). But the two-house pass. Pretty significant discount, and the other house is very impressive.

Limited street parking (It’s in a neighborhood). You are better off walking up from Visitors Center. It’s a self guided tour. The house is ‘preserved’ rather than restored to a certain period. In some ways this leads to a fascinating viewpoint (Ie when looking at the outside buildings) but parts of the house had been changed in the 70’s & it takes a bit away from the front parlors. It was a fascinating house with a fascinating history

A very enjoyable experience! You explore the house via self-guided audio tour, so you can go at your own pace. I loved being able to take my time and really appreciate the history of the home.

Absolutely fantastic! Fascinating to see all the "layers" of the house as it was back then! Reasonably priced which includes an easy to use self guided tour. You can download the app to your phone or use one of their provided headsets and app. Highly recommend! Phenomenal job to all those involved in preserving the house and making it available to the public. Please do your part to keep it that way by NOT touching a thing!

Very cool house with lots of history; we really enjoyed exploring here with the family. Preserved in the vintage of the era, we spend almost a half day here. I would only wish for a guided tour vs the self guided audio tour, but I get that would take a lot of extra staffing.

Absolutely beautiful Antebellum mansion. We took our 10yo and 12yo daughters and they loved it. It's definitely fallen into disrepair but a lot of the details have maintained their lustre. The self-guided audio tour was super convenient. Definitely recommend.

Such a unique experience. Instead of restoring this beautiful home, they are preserving it. So many different rooms to tour, as well as the outside. Definitely a must-do for history lovers.

When visiting Charleston there are so many things to see and do. I highly recommend you place the Aiken-Rhett House in the top part of the list. This self-guided tour leverages an app/mobile app that guides you around the house. The audio teaching is insightful and includes bonus material. The house is “preserved”, which adds to the experience. Parking is not the easiest to find right by the house. The staff is super friendly and willing to answer your questions.

Close to the visitor's centre. Audio guide was excellent. Easy to follow and find your way. Property bigger than I had anticipated but it was wonderful. Chairs and benches available throughout to help those who need a rest.

The self guided audio tour for this house / museum is well worth experiencing. We learned a lot about the history and polar opposite conditions between the owners and the enslaved servants. Visiting the house / museum costs $15 per person and the audio tour is included in the price.

Very informative and great tour. I love that it’s preserved and hasn’t been restored. It is eye opening to see how the enslaved people lived and what they went through in order to maintain the lifestyle of the Aikens and the home. Really loved the self-guided audio tour. Highly recommend.

Beautiful place, it's my first time in the "South " and I really loved it. This place is worth the 15$ fee for the self guided tour. You can take your time and take it all in with no need to rush.It gives you a good idea of what life was like back then. I highly recommend to add this to your list of must-see if you are ever in Charleston.

3 lists

Such an amazing place to walk around and have a nice evening stroll. Lots of benches to sit down and take a moment to relax. Beautiful fountains (including the famous Pineapple fountain) down here! The boardwalk is right next to the water and leads all the way to the water taxi pickup. The grove of trees is like walking through a green tunnel, especially gorgeous close to sunset with the suns rays penetrating the leaves.

Here is a Google traveler review for Joe Riley Waterfront Park:Pros:Beautiful waterfront location with stunning views of the Cooper RiverLarge, open spaces with plenty of room to walk, run, or bikeSeveral playgrounds and splash pads for kidsPicnic areas with grills and tablesPublic restroomsFree parkingCons:Can get crowded during peak timesNo shade in some areasNot much shade for picnickingNo food or drink vendors on-siteOverall:Joe Riley Waterfront Park is a great place to relax, enjoy the outdoors, and get some exercise. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so be prepared for crowds. If you're looking for a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this might not be the park for you. But if you're looking for a beautiful, well-maintained park with plenty of activities to keep you busy, then Joe Riley Waterfront Park is definitely worth a visit.Rating: 4 out of 5 starsDate of visit: June 21, 2023Time of visit: 10:00 AMWeather: Sunny, 75 degrees FahrenheitOverall impression: I really enjoyed my visit to Joe Riley Waterfront Park. The views of the Cooper River are amazing, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. I would definitely recommend this park to anyone visiting Charleston.

We visited in late March when it is chilly in the mornings but warms to 70’s in the afternoon, perfect time to visit these outdoor locations in Charleston. Flowers were starting bloom and spread through the park. There are two walkways one that is the pier and one the has elaborate homes, lined with huge oak trees. Several cute places to sit and watch the pier or to have a nice picnic. The fountain was beautiful.

A staple must do on your Charleston visit!Enjoy the park with trails under oaks or along the marsh, benches, swings on the dock leading to the marsh, a dock by the Tug Boats, and of course infamous Pineapple Fountain.One of the best views of the Charleston area bay and especially for sunrise!You can find me here occasionally doing my morning rucks or on the docks enjoying the sea!We hope you enjoy our beautiful city of Charleston!- The Pirate Hunter

Super cool cool park. We felt like we were in a Jane Austin book taking a turn around the gardens. It was incredible beautiful and well cared for. We wish we had more time to just come and chill. This is a must got for a quiet place to rest. It’s very peaceful. Now should be mentioned it’s not a park for kids to run or dogs to be walked etc. even a sign that says no running. It’s a tranquil park. Which is what brings some of it awesomeness.

Beautiful water front park with lots of trees, benches and great views. Check out the pineapple and other fountain. Kids should wear their bathing suits, and adults can dip their toes too! A few restaurants and an ice cream shop are nearby.

Nice walking area along the water. There are 2 fountains that the kids are allowed to play in and cool off, dont forget to bring a towel. I fountain is called the pineapple fountain which looks like a pineapple. The pier is nice, has a shaded area with a couple of swings. Grandchild was able to ride her bike along the path.

Beautiful waterfront location with stunning views of the river. The park is full of large, open spaces with plenty of room to walk. Although some of the sidewalks were under water today due to rain. There are several playgrounds and splash areas for kids. There are picnic areas with grills and tables,Free parking if you can find a spot.

Gorgeous park with lot of area to walk, sit and relax, take photos, etc. Loved going here with family and had an amazing time.

We visited on a weekday afternoon in the spring. It was fairly busy with spring break tourists. It was difficult finding parking. We had to circle a lot before we found a lot with open spaces. There are two fountains and a boardwalk. People are allowed to play in the fountains! No one was in them due to the cooler weather. The pier has a covered picnic area and bench swings. My kid loved the swings! There's a Carnival Cruise Line dock next door and there was a ship there! The pineapple fountain was gorgeous. It was much more detailed than I expected. There's an area with benches close by shaded by many live oaks. Just beautiful.

AWESOOOOME! SUCH a gorgeous place to walk around and have a nice evening stroll. Beautiful fountains down here! And the boardwalk right next to the water…and the grove of trees is like walking through a tunnel. So beautiful, such a nice little pretty spot. If I lived in Charleston, I’d be down here every week! A MUST VISIT if you ever find yourself in historic Charleston! 👍👍

This park is a great place to take a break from the touring and activity of the city proper. There was a lovely breeze and shade so it was refreshing. It is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy watching the sailboats in the harbor or the kids playing in the fountains.

Wow. What a beautiful park. The fountains are the main attractions in the park other than the view of Fort Sumter. Great place for kids to dip themselves in the fountains on a hot summer day. Had sail boats floating by. Plenty of shady places to cool off while walking the surrounding area. The swings on the dock are the best. So much to do here. You won't regret giving this beautiful part of Charleston SC a gander. Will definitely be back for more.

Joe Riley Waterfront Park is an easy walk from King Street and City Market. This beautiful and pristine park overlooks the Charleston Harbor. Stop at the Pineapple Fountain, slip off your shoes, and wade in the water. Stroll along the tree-lined pathway and enjoy the beauty of Charleston.

We had a beautiful day. October is a perfect time to visit. Nice place to take a break and rest. You can reflect, watch sail boats, and listen to street artists.

If you are looking to take an early morning or late evening stroll, this is the perfect spot. There are plenty of benches if you want to grab a book to read, have a picnic, or just take in the scenery and enjoy nature.

Wonderful waterfront park! We went end of March 2024 and there was a ton of construction which made getting there with a wheelchair a tough experience but once we did it was great! The paths were not very wheelchair friendly because roots had grown under the bricks (not unexpected) so I would suggest having someone assist a wheelchair user. We did see a dolphin on the peer! Swings were busy so we didn’t get to try those. Will return again in warmer months!

Beautiful waterfront park in downtown Charleston. We got to see a cruise ship docked nearby. Perfect place to admire the fountains, sit on swings or benches and relax or visit with friends, have a picnic. Very nice park with water views. We enjoyed it.

This park is awesome, it's got the pineapple fountain you can put your feet in and it's also got the splash pad, there is the pier that is a must go to, it's where you can find the famous swings.

This place is really nice. Easy to spot dolphins. I saw a dolphin couple. We took a really nice walk. It's also really nice to rent a bike and ride. Pineapple fountain is also really beautiful.

Beautiful park for family and friends. It’s an easy walk from city market, plenty of spots for taking pictures and relaxing at the park . It has nice pier, fountains, eco rock, benches along the big trees etc. We enjoyed walking around and took some nice pictures here.

Wow what a beautiful place to spend a few hours!! Beautiful sights and walkways! Lots of benches and places to sit & soak up some South Carolina sunshine also🌞

3 lists

A beautifully landscaped old park in Downtown Charleston. SC. Opposite the park is the ocean. The homes along the park and just beyond are stunning.

This park is truly amazing with historic houses lining the streets around. With the harbor as a backdrop it's beautiful place to spend the day. The park itself is full of memories and statues with large walking trails and the shady comfort of many centuries old trees. The town is alive around the park with yoga, joggers, dog walkers, musicians, and people enjoying their day. This is a great place to spend a few hours and unwind.

Beautiful garden! Very peaceful place for you to just chill and relax. There are historical statues you can view and appreciate. It is next to the battery as well for you to enjoy the ocean.

If you don’t have a lot of money, and you need something to do, pack a basket lunch grab a blanket and good book to spend the day at Whitr Point Garden on the Charleston battery. And on the weekends, you’re guaranteed to catch a beautiful wedding ceremony or wedding party getting their portraits done. There’s also passing sail boats and beautiful sunrise and sunset. There’s no public restroom but a 15 minute brisk walk to waterfront Park and there is a bathroom there. There is however free two hour parking on the streets around the park

Great place to sit and people watch or relax. Benches throughout the park and very well maintained.

This park is at the edge of historic Charleston. On the grounds are many huge trees, a pavilion, and a few nice gravel dirt trails. Parking will be tough. There is free parking along the edge of the waterfront, but in the neighborhood you'll need a permit to park. You can probably best enjoy the park by sitting and watching the water. Otherwise it's going to be a very very short visit.

First time I came here was in 1998, I totally forgot about that trip. Glad I was able to see it again. Very well maintained. Beautiful scenery and peace here. Crazy to think what used to be there and what took place though.

White Point Garden Is Awesome! Beautiful place to go to see the trees, and water. Without doubt worth going to! Have a great day!

White Point Garden is a must-stop when visiting Charleston. Take King Street south, and it runs right into White Point Garden. Take a few moments and take in all the history. And make sure you loop around to Waterfront Park and wade in the pineapple fountain.

In March white point Garden is covered with lots of flowers and blooming trees.This garden in park is very stunning to walk around and take photos. It is right off of the water and you get a beautiful view of sunrise or the sunset.It is family friendly with easy, parking parallel parking along the curb. Definitely a beautiful place to visit.

Cute park with monuments. Went to watch the sunset over Charleston Harbor and this place did not disappoint.

The park is absolutely beautiful! The houses are stunning. The history here is shocking. We are such a young country in comparison to others but to stand in the park and understand this is one of the original 13 colonies is still awe-inspiring.

Beautiful place to go for a walk along the water. Not too crowded and dog friendly. On a clear day you can see Fort Sumter, the bridge, Sullivan's Island, and probably some dolphins 🐬!!

The park has a very nice walk along the seawall at the tip of Charleston. It is the terminus of the battery and is where Charleston successfully defended against the British in the Revolutionary War.

Picturesque and historical park at the Charleston battery. Beautiful park for dog walking by the bay. The tree canopy doubles as a bird estuary at times.

Located at the bottom of Charleston, it’s a beautiful park with amazing views. You can walk past historic homes. I wished they had more shops for eating and drinking, especially on a hot day when you want to have some ice cream or water. The pile of cannonballs are worth checking out.

Nice greenspace in Charleston. Beautiful old trees, grass areas, and a few benches. Might have a nice view of the water but there were construction barriers (tall fabric type) so that was blocked for the most part. I was looking for a family member's plaque so I was on a mission.

3 lists

We liked this tour. The home has been beautifully restored as much as possible, to the origin design and decor. It was very interesting to learn all about the people who lived there over the years. It wasn't very long which allowed for time to see more tours. It was $15/person. We enjoyed the beauty and architecture of this home.

A look into the past.We did the self guided tour. We were given headphones and an ipod like device.Each room has a 3 to 5 minute presentation. It was very informative. It's incredible to see how people used to live. Although some rooms are colorful, I'd imagine that kids would be bored. The staircase is magnificent.

My wife and I visited the Nathaniel Russel House during a Valentine's Day getaway to Charleston. The house is a restored facility, which means that it is brought back to its past glory and looks much as it would have when in use in bygone days. A good example of a preserved house is the Aiken-Rhett House. That house is intentionally kept in a the same state in which it was found, prevented from further decay but not "fancied up." Both styles of museums are valuable and we were happy to have toured both.The Nathaniel Russel House offers a self-guided tour that takes about 45 minutes to complete. Devices with headphones are distributed at the hospitality lobby, and the house is easy to navigate. The story is told of the wealthy owners as well as the enslaved persons who worked the property. We found the experience to be well worth our time and are glad that museums such as these exist to tell the truth of our nation's complicated past.

The Nathaniel-Russell House was a beautiful place to visit and to learn about the history and architecture of Charleston, South Carolina. The house was impressive, especially the crown molding on the second floor, the spiral staircase, and the dining room on the first floor. The garden was also wonderful and worth walking through and checking out before or after taking the tour of the house. This was an audio tour on an iPhone, so if you have more comfortable headphones, plan to bring those! This was a great experience overall.

The house tour was lovely, very informative historian that guided us in each room and shared stories and information of the homes history. was a cool experience to get to see the “inside” of a home in Charleston of what it would have looked like back in time. Would recommend if you want to do a house tour

An amazing experience. You cannot see all that Charleston has to offer in a weekend however this is a must see. This home has been restored to its original charm and character. Please see the photo of the steps which was cutting edge at the time this home was built.

Very cool house with great history.We did the guided tour & it was worth it. You can really tell the dedication the staff puts forth to make sure all restoration is authentic.

On Meeting St south of Broad in what some would say is the most prestigious neighborhood of Charleston is the Nathaniel Russell house. The small gardens in front of the home are very pleasant and a worthwhile place just to stop and collect your self (there is no fee to relax there, just like a park). The home itself is pleasant enough and includes a self guided tour by using an iPod although I would say that having a personal guide provides a bit more context and certainly permits more interaction and learning. The tour itself takes about 45 minutes if you skip some of the audio commentary. It would take closer to an hour and a half if you listened to the whole thing and is about a 10-15 minutes walk from the Charleston City market. We did the Heyward-Washington and Edmonston-Alston homes during the same afternoon. If looking to do a number of house tours we purchased The Charleston Heritage Passport which offered over six homes, the Middleton Plantation the Charleston Museum and few other sites. The passport lasts for five days after it's first use so plan accordingly but we found it was well worth it. Enjoy!

It's hard to know how to feel about these places. Is it a historic place because a rich man lived there who made his money from chattel slavery? The museum has made an effort to acknowledge that dark history so that's why I'd recommend it.

We had a lovely time at Nathaniel Russell house. We skipped the audio tour in lieu of a guided tour with Maxine - and I’d recommend that all day, every day if she’s there. She was an excellent host - full of knowledge and happy to answer questions. The house isn’t huge like some estates we’ve visited, but it’s also reasonably priced to balance that out. We spent about an hour there. There’s a small gift shop area by the ticket counter with books, puzzles and ornaments. If you’re looking for a low key tour - check this out!

The self guided audio tour was excellent, as were the gardens. The house itself, while lovely, didn't really have any character and it would have been nice to be provided with more information on occupants. Worth a visit.

This is a great example of a large house where terrible white people lived. Just seeing the amount of opulence they enjoyed while owning other human beings was staggering. The guided tour did a great job of showing the price the enslaved people paid for the family to afford the luxuries they had. Also, in the back of the house seeing the conditions the people they enslaved lived under were sobering and eye opening and atrocious all at the same time. A very good way to see the terrible history of this section of Charleston life.

Breathtakingly beautiful house museum. They have really worked hard to keep/restore this house to how it was in the early 1800's. There are two touring options: a guided tour or an audio tour with earphones, we utilized the audio option and it was very informative and easy to do. Every room in the main house was beautiful and elegant. I particularly liked the spiral staircase and ceiling decoration. Everyone working there was very nice and helpful.

Easy to find. I used the audio which is about 45 min long. It was a tad slow in places but the rooms themselves are great! Love the chamber pot chair and the staircase. Used to some rooms having chairs for those that need to sit occasionally but this only had 1 spot for sitting.

Well worth the price of admission the tour we were on was hosted by a local Docent. She did a marvelous job of explaining life in the late 1700's in Charleston and this marvelous house. I was fascinated by the cantilevered staircase. We visited the house in November and the crowds were small-- a nice time to visit Charleston too.

The rooms in the house have been immaculately restored to its original condition in beautiful detail. There are two impressive rooms in the house. The tour guide was extremely informative and more knowledgeable than most

Very historic home built in the early 1800's. The tour guides were excellent and gave you an amazing glimpse into life in Charleston two centuries ago. I'm so glad we toured the home!

We took the self guided audio tour. It's fairly short and concise. You can tell that Nathaniel really spared no expense constructing his home.

3 lists

The museum staff are great. It is a priceless piece of history. The museum is very small considering the price but has some great artifacts and stories. The human whip brought me near tears. In a very old part of town with ballast stone roads

Oh my gosh...can you say RUDE dude at the front desk. Gee whiz. If it wasn't on my list to see, I would have walked out.The museum has amazing history. Take the time to read all of the walls. There is SO much to read and it really is worth it. It's not things that were taught in school. My husband and I left there talking about several things we learned - made great conversation pieces.The building is 2 stories.The Old Slave Mart is a building located at 6 Chalmers Street in Charleston, South Carolina that once housed an antebellum slave auction gallery. Constructed in 1859, the building is believed to be the last extant slave auction facility in South Carolina.

Terribly sad visit but oh so necessary to understand past atrocities and their stain on our country's history. We've come along but have a ways to go to achieve true freedom for all.God bless Christina King Mitchell as she attempts to educate visitors to the museum.

A disappointing experience. The museum is located on the site of one of the most active slave auctions yet the museum consists of placards with descriptive stories and pictures. There are just a handful of actual artifacts. There is nothing to make a visitor feel the horror of what took place there. The museum is self guided leaving poinant stories to the attentive reader rather than reenactment or audio description or guided tour. It leaves me feeling it could have been anywhere.

This museum was very interesting because of the true history of the building. It is worth a visit to see and witness. The only bad thing, but I understand it, is you can't take pictures of anything while inside.

The museum was a good, but somber experience. The exhibits were fascinating, well-placed, and eye opening.My only complaint would be regarding the acoustics of the experience. The building is permeable and sound travels easily throughout the building; so if there’s any work between staff going on in the front of the building, it can be a bit distracting.

To understand more about the slave trade both internationally and domestically, this museum is a must. There is a friendly and very knowledgeable team to answer any questions. There is a lot to read as opposed to video/interactive displays so allow enough time.We visited earlier on a Saturday morning and was quite quiet. However when we were due to leave there was a small queue and the place was definitely busier which started to restrict our access to the information/displays.

This was my second visit to the museum in less than a year! This time I encounter Ms. Christine King Mitchell who was a wealth of so much knowledge and information. It was an amazing to meet and connect with her to fill in more information about our American history! She is a blessing to the museum and the ppl that get to the privilege to hear from her!!!

This museum was incredibly informative and was a great preface to my visit in Charleston! After attending, I could walk around the city and better acknowledge the enslaved people that built the all of gorgeous houses around. I’m glad that this building is preserved for more people to learn about the history of American slavery in general and in Charleston.The museum has two small areas on different floors. There is a lot of reading with a few artifacts. By far the best part was listening to the speaker on the upper level. She was a fantastic storyteller and historian, and really brought humanity into the history presented.I only knocked a star because the museum could use some updating. From what I could tell, it hasn’t been updated since it reopened in 2007. Some panels have dated facts, such as those with monetary figures that have changed because of inflation. The panel I included in the picture has great facts that moved me (hence why I photographed it), but that format is hard to read with the every other line thing. On the upper floor, the font was just too small to read comfortably. There was a lot of crowding in that area because many people tried to huddle around close in order to read it. They should make the text bigger in the future. I’m glad they included the Spanish translation on the upper floor for accessibility.The speaker mentioned the slaves’ handprints can be seen in the bricks they made, including on that upper floor. There was one spot that she pointed out, but if they remodel I think that they should search for more and leave those bricks visible. I also think there should general be more artifacts to correspond with what the panels are talking about.Overall, it’s a great place to visit. The energy there is heavy and the topics can leave you emotional. If you go, I recommend leaving some buffer time afterwards to process all of the information.

Prices are worth it and the staff is very informative and kind. it was a great museum. I loved that it was built right at the auction spot I felt like my ancestors were there with me definitely recommend going

Great tour by self. Not allowed to take pictures. Lots of pictures and information. You are actually standing in a house and room where they sold slaves. This is a great history spot. They give military and teacher, veteran discount

The staff was so nice and knowledgeable. We took our two teenagers and they had plenty of questions. The museum staff answered all of their questions and added some other interesting facts. Worth the visit!

The museum was very informative. It definitely helped me better understand the perspective from the slave and the slave trader. Unfortunately, these aspects are often not discussed in enough detail in regular education, so seeing and reading some of these museum's facts were both heartbreaking and eye opening. It is a quick museum on a trip with cheap entry and no reservation necessary. The only reason I am giving 4 stars instead of five is because I wish it was more interactive or had more exhibits versus just reading. Still worthwhile!

This building on its own speaks volumes of the atrocities, pain, separation, and endurances of these enslaved people from Africa that have passed through here. Since it is THE building that housed and sold enslaved people and the other buildings that complemented this one have either been sold, removed, destroyed, sold, erased, renovated or remodeled...43 in all... covering approximately 20 blocks, takes away from the total experience of what it must have felt like to be processed out of a human status into a property status! Without these buildings the museum cannot quite effectuate the African people's rites of passages to their final destinations. There are lots of informational and educational artifacts, photographs, original storytelling, historical documentation, and fact-based books that account for the types of things seen and heard in this museum, but it only scratches the surface! At best, this facility is a start to what is a bottomless rabbit hole. However, it is worth visiting, but just know you've only just begun!

Outside of the building itself speaks volumes! So many untold truths are very overwhelming. When it comes to educating the public or just making people aware of the atrocities, pains, history, sufferings, or any other emotion or situation that enslaved people were forced into, all cannot be told in this museum. It would take voluminous exponential research for hundreds of years to get if even halfway through. Indeed the museum only scratches the surface and makes an enthusiastic valid effort to define African/Black History. It is IMPOSSIBLE to house an entire people's history who have existed since before time in a two-story enclosure that used to be the slave auction place with most of its connecting buildings destroyed, sold, renovated or replaced. This also kind of takes away the luster of feeling the effect of what it would be like to be sold like property, separated from family, and to have what's left of your humanity written out of the pages of history! Overall, it's worth the trip.

Overall it was nice but smaller building than what I expected. My only issue was MS Anita, the guide upstairs decided to single me out for taking pictures while she said to other people for taking pictures.

This museum goes into detail about slavery and the slave trade. I learned so much and it was very crowded the summer weekday I walked through. It is self guided so you can go at your own pace. I bought a combination ticket at the old provost that included admission for both museums. They offer discounts for educators.

It is full of details, with a few artifacts. It is mostly just facts to read about. Not really kid friendly as it would be very boring for them unless they really like to read. It is very interesting if you like reading about history. It is also very interesting to read what they had to endure, and that is the actual location.

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I definitely recommend walking, biking, running, anything over this bridge. This bridge. The breeze was amazing and the views were incredible. My 9-year-old and I walked across to the USS Yorktown exhibit, and then walked back. It's 2 and 1/2 mi one way and a cool way to get some exercise in.

Very beautiful and scenic. Amazing views! This area has many treasures to explore. Be careful, it's a highly trafficked highway. Taking in the scenes can cause a10 car pile up.

Such a cool bridge to run or bike over! My kids and I ran ( ok they walked ) over it a few times. Lots of other people doing the same and super safe even with lots of traffic speeding past.Great way to get 5miles run in from one side to the other and back

This is an espectacular and cool bridge to run, walk or bike. The views and the scenery are amazing, I walked during sunset and it’s just a beautiful place to do your morning or evening routine. There are water fountains and the begging, mid point and the end of the route just in case you forgot your water bottle. If you’re in the Charleston area this is a must to do during your visit and it’s free !

Love driving over this bridge it always amazes me of the view of whole City of Charleston. Can’t wait for this years 2022 Bridge Run! See ya out there runners! Also anywhere you drive in Charleston you can see the big diamonds.

Fantastic bridge with even better views. Walking, running, jogging, or biking trail that's separated from bridge vehicle traffic. Fun place to run and catch great views.

What a great walk, run or bike! 2 1/2 miles one way, park and get your exercise in. Highly recommended.

Fantastic suspension bridge. Unique triangles dominate the horizon from every direction. See lots of people getting their walk or run in on the Mt Pleasant side of the bridge. Highly visible from the deck of the docked carrier vessel CV-10.

Hadn't been on this bridge in many years. Caught a few shots from a nearby parking lot before driving across the bridge yesterday, Tuesday 01-23-24.

A short walk from either side of the bridge and your view is picturesque. Walk, run, bike, scooter, or skate the length of the bridge if you want a bit of exercise. We took a casual walk 1/2 way and back. Then spent the rest off the evening walking in the park and in the pier. You can definitely make an afternoon or evening out of a visit to the bridge.There is a visitor center, cafe, gift shop, lots of riverfront seating all over, open grass areas and a gated playground for the kiddos.

One of my best experiences during my visit to Charleston. The bridge itself is magnificent and an engineering marvel. If I lived here, I'd want to walk across it daily. Here are a few observations if you're planning to visit:Parking: I did a search for Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park on Google. There are a lot of parking spots located right under the bridge giving you easy access to the path. This is on the Mount pleasant side.Timing: The bridge is 2.5 miles long in one direction. There is an incline as you go up. Plan your timing accordingly based on your level of fitness and if you want to take a lot of photos.Weather: Three miles into the five mile trek, a massive storm blew in and I was soaked. There is nowhere to shelter (not a complaint...... This isn't something you'd expect on a bridge crossing). Check the weather before.The wind picks up very strongly at times so don't wear loose clothing etc.

I recommend parking on the Mount Pleasant side of the bridge. Parking is free just beyond the visitors center and there is easy access to the trail to the bridge

The Bridge stands as an architectural masterpiece, seamlessly connecting communities with its sleek design and efficient traffic flow. Beyond its utilitarian purpose, it serves as a symbol of unity and resilience, captivating all who traverse its span. With its towering steel columns and intricate lattice work, this magnificent structure leaves an indelible mark on the landscape and in the hearts of all who behold it.

This is such an awesome experience. I stopped here and walk the bridge every time I come to Charleston South Carolina.

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Very pretty church with wonderful architecture and history. I wasn’t able to be there for a service but I thoroughly enjoy yes walking through. It was a beautiful church, but I think there are even brighter and prettier ones in town.

I had the great blessing of being hosted by some of the members of Saint Michael’s for a tour and discussion. And today’s world very few churches have multiple generations and this historic church has many years of legacy and tradition built on the shoulders of the founding fathers of the church. Such a beautiful place. The cemetery the sanctuary the history here is Stepat in the holiness and love of God. Very much worth a visit. I spent time in one of the Church pews, reflecting in the goodness and beholding the glory of God. Sets up beautifully for contemplative prayer and quiet reflection. I highly recommend a tour of this amazing landmark.

Beautiful church, with charming architecture! A true museum, full of stories. A man accompanied us introducing the church and telling great stories. Friendly and always smiling people who welcomed us.

I can't speak to the health of congregation or the church leadership, but this is a fascinating building with intricate decoration. All the guides will tell you that George Washington himself sat in box 43, perhaps apocryphal, but still a good story.

One of the top jewels of Charleston. No tripthere is complete without a visit here. So much US and Charleston history. We attended the Sunday service and joined a small tour after. Extra special as it was Pentecost Sunday. From George Washington and Robert E. Lee attending services here to Charleston’s most famous families, it’s a site to not miss. It is also still a very much active church as well! Hours are a bit limited so check before you go.

St Michael's combines history and wonderful, loving congregation. Each of their clergy brings unique personalities and life experiences. Wonderful church and I encourage all to experience.

Beautiful church, it was quite crowded & their was a wait time so only saw from outside but cemetery is free to access to all & i have included the pictures here, please be sure where to park your vehicle as there is no dedicated parking lot for visitors.

Our family has been visiting this beautiful church for both holiday and regular services. Each time we have experienced an authentic and thoughtful welcome. We’ve met kind and sincere people and we’ve enjoyed meaningful and passionate Biblically-based messages as well as joyful worship experiences.

Beautiful church worth walking through for the beauty and history which is very interesting. Beautiful stained glass and an organ which is quite impressive. Go early during the week as the walking tour groups can make it hard to walk through.

Beautiful, historical resting place of Charles Cotesworth Pinckney and John Rutledge, two signers of the U. S. Constitution, and many others. The grounds are well maintained and the ancient stones are lined with blooming plants in contrast of newness of life. Sense the heritage, feel the tranquility and never lose touch but embrace the passing of time. The church itself was not open for viewing.

No trip to Charleston is complete without visiting St. Michael's Church. It's a beautiful church with a lot of history.

Beautiful, classic church in Charleston SC. Very historic building. Multiple presidents have worshipped here. Went as part of Downtown Charleston walking tour. Definitely worth going with a guide to get the history. But, just beautiful on own.

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This is a large, beautiful park with tons of history. Multiple walking paths with great scenery. Staff was friendly. Recommend listening to the audio-tour as you walk through the park. Historical recreations were interesting, educational and well maintained. Enjoyed the small zoo as well. When we went, there were archeological digs you could visit at designated times. Took about 4 or 5 hours to see everything, including the zoo. Very enjoyable experience overall.

One of the best state parks in SC. There is so much to see and do. The loop trail is 2 miles long and visiting the zoo is a mile or so more. Some of the animals at the zoo are hard to see, but most are right near their fence. We have never seen the puma, but have seen the bear even though he stays way at the back. The ship and cabin are also really neat. So much history! Just a a great place for all ages.

My friend and I had a great time at Charles Towne landing. We just did a self-guided walk around, but there was a lot of historical information on signs and the staff, who were dressed in period clothing, was very helpful and informative. The museum was a great place to start as it gave a good basis for what you were seeing. I would definitely go again!

Historic Charles Town is super scenic. Gorgeous trees with views of the water. Gators are in some areas that are marked. They have a small zoo on one end. Easily accessible walking paths. We biked and covered the entire area within a few hours.

Financial Fact: Free admission the day after Thanks-Taken & December 25. Some exhibits are closed but worth a visit if you want to save some money while visiting.The park is beautiful plus we went on a really gorgeous day.I know the draw for me was the African American cemetery, the slave quarters, and the ship however they were non-existent during my visit. I enjoyed the inside museum which really brought together the history of the park, the significance and founding of Charleston. I never knew the connection to the Caribbean specifically Barbados for Charles Towne but now I do. I would have hoped that the outside could have provided more engagement for multigenerational visitors but I do see it’s efforts. However, it is well known how much African and Indigenous Americans viewed the land, yet, it didn’t seem to be an earnest effort to share more (outside) about them. The tiki statue, statue of the chief, native foundation and the marker for the African gravesite are minuscule and passive at best. More information (again, outside) could be provided to bring this to life for visitors.Information about the shuttle and tour wasn’t shared. After walking 2 miles we started seeing shuttle stop signs, fortunately my son was a trooper the grounds were peaceful. It took us about 2 hours to walk 3.5 miles reading, taking pictures and enjoying the space. It’s expansive indeed and I can see how people can leave and return. And even stay for the full day with a meal to sit and have a lunch on a table or lay a blanket to dine by the marsh. The view towards Charleston is nice as well.Highlight: It wasn’t major but the animal area made my sons day. It was a nice component.I hope you find this review helpful. If so, please give me a thumbs up. Thank you in advance.

Stopped in to learn Somme history of Charles Towne Landing. Nice little museum to walk through. If you want to tour the grounds, need to purchase a ticket; you can also rent bikes if you want to go faster than your feet. Reduced the rating by one star because the history tour signs were opposite of the painted footprints on the paths. Made it confusing.

A great place to walk, lean about the history of the area. The grounds are quite extensive with a small zoo, trails and interpretive boards along the way. The museum in the Visitor's Center is especially interesting!

We had an excellent experience touring Charles Towne Landing. Admission cost a little more than other parks but is worth the price for everything that is included. The visitor center has lots of souvenirs and some snacks available for purchase as well as a museum full of history and artifacts. We walked the History trail that led us to the Animal Forest (zoo) of animals native to the area when it was originally settled. The red wolf walked right up to the window. Most of the animals were less energetic and some were not visisble at all but there is a nice little collection of inhabitants overall. We were advised that it is better to see the animals first thing in the morning. We continued on viewing the remains of the original settlement and boarding a replica trading vessel of the period. The Legare Waring house was not available to enter but we peeped through the windows to see what we could of the inside. The Avenue of Oaks leading to the house is an impressive sight. We also walked the nature trail around the gardens. They were not in bloom but well kept as is the rest of the park. We took advantage of one of the picnic areas for lunch overlooking the pond and water fountain. There are six miles of trails and we walked most of them effortlessly. Highly recommended spot to visit when you're in Charleston.

The park is expensive to get in, but I understand how expensive it is to maintain a zoo so I see why. We started by going in the visitors center and it's a beautiful and large building. We went through the museum and then continued outside to the zoo. We saw very interesting animals. Then, we walked to the Adventure ship which is a very cool boat that you can walk on for free. We then walked back to the car and drove to Folly Beach. Overall, this park is one of the nicest parks I've been to.

12$ per person. We did the historic trail and the zoo. The trail is cool, but not like amazing. The section of the trail where the weddings takes place is really pretty with the oak trees and spanish moss. The zoo has some cool animals like puma, black bear, otters, etc. In short, the place is good for a nice walk but not as pretty as some of the gardens around.

Lovely walk with great views, watch out for alligator signs will keep you alert! The zoo was fun for the kids and the store had some surprisingly comfortable shirts. Great place to spend the morning before it gets too hot.

Absolutely incredible! This well-maintained historic site provides information and immersive experiences to better understand the earliest settlement in South Carolina. We learned so much and enjoyed visiting the beautiful grounds with oak trees that predate the US Constitution. The museum is wonderfully designed with artifacts recovered from the settlement. Our family enjoyed the interactive videos along the trail, and meeting some of the actors during our visit!!

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It was cool to see these homes that almost were demolished. The architecture is nice and they are well kept, for the most part. I really didn't see much, that you could call it a tourist attraction though. There are some nice waterfront views and other attractions nearby, which makes it worthwhile to stroll through Rainbow Row.

Park your car somewhere near and take a stroll along the beautiful array of colorful houses. Continue to walk to till you see the Oceanside for the best view. Make sure the weather is pleasant to get the best experience!

Really pretty pastel houses. Great for Instagram. Not much immediately there, but some restaurants, bars, and cafes within walking distance.

This is one of the nicest places in Charleston to visit. It's fascinating to see all of these buildings painted in rainbow colors. Walking about the streets or taking a horse-drawn carriage with a tour discussing the history of the area is the best way to learn about it.

Maybe it's just me or maybe I am missing something...but these really aren't really that exciting to see. There are so many other buildings with so much more character that tickle my fancy more than these do. Different colored homes. Cool. Or so most think.It wasn't out of the way to see these so we went to see what the hub bub was all about. We checked it off the list.

Beautiful pastel colored row houses along E Bay Drive in Charleston. Meticulously maintained garden areas. What an impressive sight!

Beautiful and colorful area. We didn't go on a tour, just drove around.

The rainbow row homes are a cool place to visit and grab some photos. Access was free and easy, just park on the street and grab a photo. It's a unique part of the city and worth a quick visit.

Beautiful Homes In A Historical neighborhood. Keep driving to see more gorgeous homes up ahead by the water.

Absolutely beautiful area in downtown Charleston! This is definitely one of my favorite vacation spots. There is no way to take a bad picture down here! Beautiful homes, beautiful streets, beautiful ornamental gates, beautiful plants.....just BEAUTIFUL!

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The history of/in this building is incredible. It's well worth a visit if you are a history buff and are in town. We had a great time here visiting all three floors. Lots for kids to do also. Bathroom facilities and gift shop are available. Stop in here, you can't go wrong if you love history or old buildings!

The Old Exchange Building in Charleston is a historic landmark from colonial times. It was finished in 1771 by the British Colonial Government and was called the New Exchange and Custom House. It was a big deal, being the center for economics, culture, and politics in Charlestowne and wealthy South Carolina. Throughout the years, it had many purposes, like being a place for business, customs, and even a British Army Provost jail during the Revolutionary War. Nowadays, it's a symbol of Charleston's history and is open for visitors who want to see its fascinating architecture and learn about its past on guided tours. Our tour guide was a Charleston native and knew a lot about the city's history. Btw, you can sign the copy of the Declaration of Independence on the 2nd floor for fun.

Very cool place with lots of history. We took the dungeon tour and it was very much worth it. Enjoyed all the exhibits and paintings with a lesson in history. Very informative.

The Old Exchange, as the name suggests was originally built in 1771 as a commercial exchange and custom house. This is also why there was ample space for storage of goods in the underground spaces of the building. It was also a meeting place for exchange of ideas where the Exchange in 1788, hosted South Carolina leaders as they debated and approved the U. S. Constitution. However, along the way, it also became a venue for public slave auctions and during the American Revolution, the British also converted the basem*nt into a military prison. This is also how the Old Exchange got its second name as the Provost Dungeon.As we reached at 1120am, we were just in time for the Provost Dungeon Tour that was to start at 1130am. It takes place hourly and is a very informative tour that is not to be missed!For more details of this review, visit 2bearbear today!

The dungeons and dungeon tour was very interesting and the figures in the dungeon are well done and realistic. There is not much to see on the top floor. The first floor had a few interesting objects including the postal office recreation

My wife, son and I did the guided tour and it was quite interesting. Our tour guide was very informative and gave lots of fun facts about the building and its history. It is a bit humid in the dungeon but the first and second floor are air conditioned so you get a break from the heat. The first and second floor is self guided with lots of interesting local artifacts. You can sign a copy of the Declaration of Independence on the 2nd floor too. There are public bathrooms and a small gift shop as well.

Plus side is your tour guide. We were lucky to have a very informative and personable guide. The history of the building and it's area was worth the tour.It's 1 of 4 buildings still standing where the declaration of Independence was signed.Special little stores too. (Ship's ballast being dumped overboard in the harbour for years giving Charleston more land. Also the hidden gunpowder)Downside, upon reception the price of the tour and it's info is too hurried.

Beautiful piece of history, so we’ll preserved and taken care of.Jean was our Provost tour guide and he did a great job. Very knowledgeable and funny, with lots of interactive comments and quips. Love seeing places that care about the history they’re preserving. Everyone here was so kind and welcoming! Make this a stop on your Charleston trip!

Super cool and interesting place to visit. I bought the combination ticket which included admission and the dungeon tour. Our tour guide Carol not only knew her history, but had cute funny jokes that made it fun for the kids as well. Everyone who worked there was so helpful and knowledgeable.

There is a lot of history in Charleston, and many things start from here in the old exchange. Recommend to take a tour guide for a great experience, and much more details.

While on a day trip to Charleston we took our boys, ages 6 and 8, to the Dungeon and exchange for a tour. I remember going there as a kid in about 5th grade and thinking it was super cool. What I didn't remember is that it was never intended to be a prison and only served as such for a short period of time during the revolution. Our guide was good, but I do feel like he assumed people had a general background knowledge of history that some might not have. Some of the info was interesting to my 8 year old, but most was totally over both of their head's. In retrospect, if I was to do it again, I'd definitely wait until they are older and only go after they've learned some more history to make it more relative. We went on a hot day in July, and I was thinking it would be cool down in the Dungeon. It was definitely not... so bring a fan or pamphlet to fan yourself! I did enjoy reading the information in the large room on the main floor about all of the people in SC history who had spent time there at the exchange, and specifically reading about the role/life of women in this time period. My 6 year old enjoyed signing the "Declaration of Independence"!

Fantastic tour! Can not say enough about this place. We had a great time experiencing the time period inside the building & learning so much about Charleston’s history. The museum was well displayed and the tour was well done you could go at your own pace through the museum & choose to do the tour I highly suggest the dungeon tour it was worth the small fee!

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I loved visiting this market. It was fairly big for the area that it’s in. I was expecting a much smaller market and was pleasantly surprised. There was so much to see and buy. I bought some prints, little gifts, jewelry, candies and had to buy some of the beautiful grass woven art pieces. There is lots more to do outside of the market that is very close and I loved that aspect also. It was a tight squeeze but we went on a weekend so maybe it’s less crowded during the weekdays. You are going to love it, but pack your comfy shoes for sure.

The City Market is a must-stop if you are visiting Charleston. This market is packed with all different types of vendors and artisans. The handmade straw baskets are works of art, and the paintings are breathtaking. Different vendors vary throughout the week, so stop in several times.

Had a great time browsing all the very unique and interesting gifts offered by so many different vendors. Everyone was polite & friendly, the basket weavers even made a rose for our little one which made her day.

Starting from the intersection of Meeting Street and Market Street then extending all the way to East Bay Street, the Charleston City Market is a renown location to buy a wide assortment of locally produced goods or at least from certified local vendors. During the day it serves predominantly as tourist market (but still nice) and there are, on certain evenings a Night Market where only locally produced goods are available. In both cases it is worth a visit if you are visiting as you are sure to find a nice memento of your visit here...and you'd be supporting a small local business. Enjoy!

There seems to be something for everyone. Whether you are looking for handmade jewelry, accessories, candles, hats, fragrance, jellies, cookies, or Charlston themed souvenirs, I am sure you will enjoy your visit. Be sure to visit the numerous nearby shops and horse and carriage tours.

Definitely a must see in Charleston. Although busier, it's probably better to go on a weekend when I would imagine more vendors would be out. But I am not exactly sure how that works. If you are really shopping, it probably takes about 2 hours to get through the entire market. There are plenty of public parking areas. The parking garage we parked at was $4 for 2 hours.

A must see when you visit Charleston! Packed with something for everyone. I bought a book, a few pieces of art, and post cards. Very welcoming. I felt comfortable with my mask on. I would visit here again. From grits, to baskets, to art there is so much to see! Such a beautiful experience. Truly a place worth stopping and experiencing. You can find parking, there are lots and street parking. Also there is a lot of food in the area. Enjoy!

This was my second time visiting the market while in the state. It was such a lovely time. So much beautiful art and good snacks! Of course, everything is surrounded by the beautiful city with so many different shops. The only downfall is the horse carriage rides, leaves horse poop in the ground in some areas with a fresh scent.I do recommend going during the week if you can, so it's a little busy.

We were looking for something to do before we had to head to the airport. This is an interesting market that has a huge variety of things to look at and shop. There are permanent stores and what appears to be less permanent stalls for local vendors. Most of it is in outdoor covered pavilions with one section indoors and air conditioned. It began to rain hard, which quickly flooded the streets. There were 7 to as much as 12 inches of water between the buildings. I had to take my shoes off and roll my pants up to escape. Would have like to see the whole thing. It was a very memorable experience.

Love the Charleston City Market.There are a lot of interesting shops. Some are handmade items, too.Wide variety of artworks,spices, etc.The high ceiling with fans and long 2 buildings are impressive. There are also bathrooms.Walking down the shops is sure a nice experience. ...

The Market is great and houses lots of great vendors both day and night with food, artifacts, art, jewelry, bags, clothing, and so much more. Lots of the items are handmade, especially at the night market. The market extends about 3 or more blocks and lots of great eating places and other stores around the market. You definitely want to visit the market! We did twice!! 😃

Just steps from the port so best not to go when ships are visiting. Specialty foods and local crafts and kitschy souvenirs. Pick up a pack of benne wafers for a nice gift for friends.

Open air market with vendor booths amid centuries old buildings. Great walking / touring area. Close to waterfront and historical parks and buildings. I'm not much for markets, but the walk was very nice.

Marvelous public market in the middle of downtown Charleston. The place has different kind of vendors, from arts and crafts to local shoes designers. Even if you don’t buy anything, I encourage people to talk a walk inside to enjoy its architecture.

One of my top fave experiences while we were visiting Charleston. Really cool market with all sorts of local stuff to buy and eat. Also just fun to look around. They only have certain hours so make sure to check the site. We caught the tail end of the market so a lot of people were already packing up or gone already for the day. Still a unique experience to find touristy or less touristy m/more unique Charleston items. I bought some delicious pecans roasted in cinnamon sugar. I will say roads are really tight and smaller in this part of town so brace yourself and search for nearby parking.

This is definitely a must stop, whether during the day or at night. My friend and I loved walking through the market and perusing all the local vendors and shops. We purchased a couple of gifts for ourselves and for others. I loved some of the unique jewelry and basket shops, and other items like the freeze dried skittles I couldn't quite understand. There's a plethora of things to buy!

The barn was very clean and smelt nice, and had bathrooms, which we were not expecting. It was easy and fast to get into the wagon as they tell everyone where to sit. We had Jordan, who was a very good coach horse and clearly knew the route. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. We saw a lot of the beautiful back alleys and were told a lot of history.

A great place for unique gifts and souvenirs from the Low Country. Authentic, hand made items by local craftsmen, garments, soaps, etc. Sweet grass baskets too. Parking is a bear or the other "B" word. Garages and lots can be $20/day. Place floods during a heavy rainstorm. Closes at 5 with vendors taking all their goods with them. A must see.

Ok so it's getting an average review based on access and walking. Repeat of products and parking. Worth the shopping trip but if you have mobility issues just know it's going to be a challenge. The horse carriage is a mixed thoughts, really hard to get in for some, But such a nice way to hear stories and see the sights. Just wish they had a horses only lane .

My husband and I shopped at Charelston City Market and we bought a beautiful ornament of a Charleston map, put on an oyster shell. It is so unique and beautiful. This wonderful lady sold it to us, she was so nice. I also bought a wallet to match my purse that I bought in Savannah, Georgia. There was so many things to choose from and I love what we bought. My husband also, bought me a beautiful bohemian cover-up with a brooch, it is also reversible.

This was my 2nd visit to Charleston City Marketplace. It's an open-air market with no walls and vendors lining either side of the aisles with all sorts of unique sweet grass baskets, jewelry, clothing, food, books and so much more. I purchased a very unique handmade cane with a silver metal handle for a friend at a very reasonable price. Also, I purchased several pieces of jewelry for gift giving and some sweet grass items. The vendors are generally very friendly and some are the artisans who created the items on display. Three blocks long with lots of parking nearby, both street and lot parking. Each time I've gone, I wish I had more room in my suitcase for additional items. Several restaurants surrounding the market, including Henry's with great food and ambiance, are either at the bar or table seating. There's also an area to get carriage rides within a block. Easy walking area and open 7 days a week.

The market has so many booths with unique items - it took over three hours to see it all. I lucked out and went on the day of the Christmas tree lighting so there was a night market too. I went to the market in the morning and then again for the night market. A lot of different vendors set up for the night market. It wasn’t difficult to find a parking spot for either time. It was a lovely day and I bought many unique items from food items to baskets to jewelry.Side note: Be careful of the people outside the market trying to “gift” you with a handmade sea grass rose. They are relentless with demands for money. Just be prepared to pay if you accept the “gift”.

Very cool, large market with lots of local vendors selling many different products. You could purchase belts, paintings, hats, handmade leaf baskets, and much more. We visited at least 2-3 times in our short stay. It was a bit pricey, but it's also a big tourist attraction so it makes sense. It wasn't too busy though, we were able to take our time and got a few souvenirs to bring back.

Cool market, lots of vendors and stuff to see and possibly buy. Watch out for the street folks peddling the grass roses though. This kid tried to get my elderly mom to give him money for a "basketball trip to Alpharetta". I told him no thanks and he cussed me out and walked off.

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If Patriot’s Point isn’t at the top of your Charleston agenda, rethink it! This is the absolute, hands-down must-see thing in Charleston. You get to go inside navy ships - large and small and understand the lives of a sailor and other military personnel aboard these ships. It was my first experience on a navy ship, so it was very informative and eye opening. I will say, there are a lot of tight quarters, narrow halls, and dozens of steep ladders/stairs to climb as your tour up and down and across the ships. I walked about 3 miles in total across 3.5 hours that we spent. We had to hurry through - and it still took us 3.5 hours. We thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommend it. The Vietnam experience is unique and worth walking through. The self guided tours were pretty well labeled so you can navigate your way through. Plenty of hands on things you can touch and watch, too.

As an Italian visitor, my wife and I had the incredible opportunity to explore the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum just before a massive storm hit. It was an exhilarating experience, filled with American patriotism. The warships, especially the USS Yorktown, were awe-inspiring, and we felt lucky to witness them. The museum's dedication to preserving history was evident, and we were immersed in the lives of sailors through exhibits and artifacts. The sudden storm added to the adventure, emphasizing the indomitable spirit of the United States. A must-visit for a patriotic and immersive experience.

Took my grandson and he loved it. I just followed behind him and let him lead the way! Definitely have to go back to see everything. It's a huge place with lots of history to view! Highly recommend! But keep in mind it is HOT on those ships!

Combat veterans should have free admission to the USS Yorktown. I paid $19.00. Great carrier floating military museum. Asbestos fibers present, so do not make insulation friable. And do not put your fingers in your mouth, eyes, or other orifices after touching planes, deck, or other US Navy equipment from 1942-1945. Hellcats....awesome! Flight deck ..awesome. If you have no military background, you are at the mercy of the civilian tour guides at the info center on the vessel. Self guided tour is what I did...it was "smoking 🔥 hott" inside and top side of the vessel. Glad I went..

Exceptional exhibits. Seeing life simulated on the navy destroyer Laffey and the carrier Yorktown were very impressive. The volunteer offering information about the exhibits was knowledgeable. It was interesting to see the various planes up close.I was especially impressed with the Vietnam area which included realistic sound effects like helicopters flying overhead and bombs exploding. We were able to walk on a couple of helicopters.There is a gift shop. Also of interest was people spending the night on board the Yorktown, from scout troops to families with kids. Helicopter tours are also available.We arrived early when they opened and the parking lot filled up quickly. Plan on at least 2-3 hours to see everything.

Tip: Buy the Friends of the Feet pass. You only need to go twice to save money. I have visited this venue five or six times and each time it does not disappoint. If you’re not a local, try to come during the week if it all possible. Can be incredibly busy on the weekends. Parking is five dollars. If you don’t want to pay to park there are places that you can put your car nearby and walk in to the museum site.Perfect for families, groups with children, or anyone of any age. I thought it was wonderful to see it lit up at night. Staff is always friendly and helpful.

We have visited a couple of times, and the museum is excellent. You can make this a quick trip and spend a couple of hours or an entire day. If you love military history, you could stretch this and make it a two-day trip if you want to see every little aspect, including the other ships.

This was an amazing experience. I’m a former Marine and worked in aviation for 11 years. They had CH-46 and AH-1W helicopters on display. These are both planes I worked with. The sound effects of the plane really took me back! It was a pleasure to be able to sit inside the 46.

The ticket to Patriots Point gets you into a few different spaces: the U.S.S. Yorktown, the U.S.S. Laffey, an exhibit on the Vietnam War (there is possibly more but we were exhausted from seeing those). There is a lot of information on the history of the Yorktown, exhibits on the life aboard the Yorktown, a metal of honor museum, and historic aircraft.The exhibit on Vietnam does have sound effects meant to replicate the experience of being in battle. They cannot be heard from the ships.Bring walking shoes, water, and sunscreen. If you're heat sensitive make sure to plan lots of breaks. They do have a few a/c spots on the Yorktown, as well as vending machines and snack spots. They also have plenty of benches.Those with mobility issues will be able to visit but need to plan accordingly.

We went on the "pay what you can weekend" and it was really fun. Lots and lots of walking. Not really wheelchair or stroller friendly. There's two ships and a Vietnam area/museum. There's also a museum inside the big ship and a bunch of planes on the deck. There's several self "tours" on the big ship (just follow where the 🐶 points) but my kids love doing their own thing and getting lost on the ship is more fun. There's some picnic tables outside next to the parking lot and there's a few tables and vending machines inside the big ship, but I recommend packing a lunch. They have a souvenir shop, as well.

A fantastic experience - plan on at least 3-4 hours to tour both ships plus the Vietnam Experience, too.$5 all day parking - shared with the Fort Sumter ferry, too.There are x4 tours within the USS Yorktown that flow nicely from bow to stern. The USS Laffey was one of the better naval exhibits we have visited, to include some interactive displays and short films.The Vietnam Experience was well designed and had a lot of exhibits plus a short film, too.Highly recommended while in Charleston..!

Loved it! I visited the USS Yorktown on June 28, 2008. It was awesome and our tour guide was actually a WWII veteran who was stationed aboard the ship! He was in his eighties, but still got around the ship quite well! The other ships (including a submarine) were fascinating as well! Finally, the Vietnam section was well worth visiting. This is a great site to visit if you love military history!

This museum was super cool to see. Definitely recommend this as a must if you are visiting nearby. Going through the ship and seeing the real deal is awesome as well looking at all the cool planes.

I went for a Navy Graduation ceremony on this ship. This place was full of historical information. I learned so much about the history of this ship and it’s service. That had an elevator to the top of the flight deck. Restrooms are easily accessible. The gift shop had plenty of items.Well worth the money to visit and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Their is a lot of ground to cover. Also the cool breeze of being there early in the morning is the best time to visit during the summer months.

Really neat experience. We had amazing weather the weekend we came here. I'm amazed at how big that ship is. My sister is on an amphibious ship so it was cool to tour and think of her. There were so many nooks and crannies, and by far, it had the best looking mannequins I have ever seen with lifelike faces. I only mention that, because I've never seen anything like it.I would recommend eating before you come because it's easy to spend a whole day there, and there isn't anywhere to get food. When you pay for parking, your ticket and parking are valid all day. We came here the night before, and it was neat to see the lights on the ship as the sun was setting. Very beautiful!After spending so much time on the USS Yorktown, we breezed through the other ship. That one doesn't have air conditioning so when the weather is warm/hot watch out. Don't miss the Vietnam experience. There's some cool aircraft and watercraft hidden back there.My family would recommend checking this out for sure!

Wonderful experience. Sets a very high bar for other museums.Limitless space to explore, content spans 3/4 wars, extremely knowledgeable volunteers, and high quality exhibits.I would visit again and highly recommend this experience if you’re in the area.

This was our second visit in 5 years, and we finally got to see some of the areas we hadn't didn't as much time on, such as The Laffy. New to us was the Vietnam experience, which was fascinating. I learned more about the Medal of Honor and some of the recipients. I love the way the museum brought personal experiences to life. I am thankful that they reinserted African Americans into the stories of WWII and their importance in serving our country.Make sure to ask about accessibility needs early so you can ask enjoy as much of the experience as possible.

For anyone interested in military history, this is the place to visit if you are ever in Charleston. And if you're not a fan of military history, this is a 'must see'. Great museum and a wonderful memorial to all that served in the past and for those serving today. I will plan a trip to Charleston just for this place. You can spend a couple of hours or an entire day exploring this place.

As a WWII buff, I was enchanted by the history but even if you are not, it a good lesson to learn about life in a crowded space with 3600 men in one space. To see the bunks and kitchen and tight work spaces really makes me thankful for the men who served. There are dental clinics, OR, brig, engine room, mess halls and post office in addition to planes torpedoes and fighting equipment and miles of wire, conduit, low ceilings and watertight doors. There is much to see, so I took a tour but you could probably do an audio guide. The flight deck is full of planes and though you can’t go inside, it is amazing how big they are. It is nicely laid out into four separate short tours and I spent 3 hours just on the Yorktown. I spent a few minutes on the destroyer USS Laffey and would have liked more time. It is amazing to look at the small space in a turret filled with 14 men and 2 five inch guns. It’s 5 miles from town and I took the 41 bus because the ferry doesn’t run again until March. It was the highlight of my trip

Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum was the next venue we visited after the Old Exchange Provost Dungeon as the Old Slave Mart Museum. There are several cool things about Patriots Point Museum. Firstly, there’s USS Yorktown, an aircraft carrier from WW2 located here on site. You’ll also be able to visit USS Laffey a destroyer from the same era. In addition, Patriots Point Museum houses the Cold War Memorial, the Medal of Honor Museum and is also home to the only Vietnam Experience Exhibit in the US.Established in the 1970s, the Patriots Point Development Authority was tasked to develop a naval and maritime museum with USS Yorktown, a WW2 aircraft carrier as its centerpiece at Charleston Harbour. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attraction in South Carolina, with over 300,000 visitors each year. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to USS Yorktown, stepping on a WW2 aircraft carrier was so surreal…For the full review of Patriots Point & Naval Maritime Museum, visit 2bearbear today!

This gave a fascinating peek into life on an aircraft carrier from the 1940s-1060s. Give yourself a good two hours to see everything. Even then you need extra time to check out the Vietnam Vets tribute.

The USS Yorktown is the only aircraft carrier you can tour. It's one of those things you really want to do, even if you don't it yet.How much time will it take? You can spend all day and not even come close to reading/seeing everything.Be sure you check out the USS Laffey and the Vietnam Experience. These bonuses are not to be missed.

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My family had a lovely visit to Magnolia Plantation. We came early on a Wednesday, and were able to quickly purchase tickets and get started with exploring the grounds.The plantation’s massive Live Oak trees are picturesque, and the house itself is well maintained. While waiting for our tour, we visited the conservatory which was lovely. We ended our tour in the gift shop which had a wide assortment of lovely items.We chose to pay for the Nature Tram since we had folks in our group who couldn’t walk far. It was a great choice since we were able to see the grounds and gain some historical perspective without walking a lot. On the tram we were able to see the slave houses, several rice fields, and many wild animals including alligators, birds, and turtles!Although we didn’t go into the house or take the From Slavery to Freedom tour, I imagine these are as well done as the Nature Tram and well worth their money!

What a beautiful place! So glad we went to visit. The grounds were gorgeous! There was a wedding there yesterday, so the various vendors were there tearing down their set ups. Other than that, all areas were open. We spotted many gators, so be mindful when walking near ponds and waterways. Lots of turtles too. The magnolias were so fragrant while we were walking around. We just did the house tour, but they had other tours available too. Those can be booked ahead of time right online. Lovely visit.

Magnolia was one of the best experiences we had while visiting Charleston. The tour guides were all very knowledgeable about the plantation. We did the house tour, train tour, and the Slavery to Freedom tour. The tour guide for Slavery to Freedom was Vanessa and she was absolutely amazing. I would recommend more then 4 hours for the entirety of the plantation. We only were able to do our tours and visit the gift shop in the four hours we were there. We wish we would have had more time to explore the gardens because this place is absolutely amazing. They also have an app that was extremely helpful for navigating the grounds and location the tours and restrooms.

The plantation is absolutely gorgeous. The scenery and flowers were breathtaking and the farm animals made the experience so much fun for the kids. When walking the different gardens, the signs leading there could have been more clear. Most importantly, be prepared to be completely devoured by herds of mosquitos, so prepare accordingly. Otherwise, the experience was top notch! Highly recommended.

Such a nice way to spend the day. The house is smaller than you’d guess, but the tour was one of my favorites. Full of history and interesting facts. The Slavery to Freedom tour literally made my eyes tear up with emotion, the guide couldn’t have been more perfect, it is clear that she loves her job and takes the history seriously. The grounds are beautiful. And my favorite part - the wild gators were all out and sunbathing, not at all phased by the visitors.

Extensive gardens and large tracks of natural habitat. The Ashley river runs along the edge of the property providing beautiful views from the gardens. There are interesting trees to be found including redwood. There is a biblical garden as well as a conservatory. There are places with picnic tables and benches to rest at. There is a petting zoo. And children's garden. We did see little blue herons, great egrets, alligators and turtles. There is an excellent presentation "from slave to freedom" that takes about 30 minutes. Takes place at the remaining original slave quarters on the plantation. Gives a good snapshot of what life was through the decades from 1850s to 1990, they were still in use by the grounds people. All these can make for an entertaining and informative day.

Had a nice afternoon here with the family. It wasn't peak bloom for anything in late September but there were still plenty of flowers and the overall scenery with the Spanish moss draped trees was stunning.We did the rice field boat tour, which was very informative. The rice fields were given back to nature and are now just wetlands with a few remnants of the old farm. We saw tons of beautiful birds and alligators. The pontoon boat had a roof, so we were out of the sun.Definitely should be on your Charleston list. If you are a local, call ahead to learn about what's in bloom and what time of year is best to visit.

Beautiful grounds and rich in history. Great stop on way to Charleston for a bit of a walk and some lovely pictures! Bring bug spray and pack a lunch. Bit pricey but if you have more time it is well worth the money.

It's definitely a beautiful place filled with lovely flowers, plants and trees. The slavery to freedom tour and petting zoo are included in admission. Personally, I think for the price, everything should be included. There shouldn't be "add ons."The guide for the freedom tour was exceptional and he deserves a raise. He told the raw history which needs to be said.

A beautiful old world plantation garden. The many acres of the gardens offer many photo opportunities, including the long white bridge and the bamboo garden. There is also a little zoo area with several cool animals to visit with.

I had an amazing time here, it was super beautiful and a really enjoyable experience overall. The "train" tour is nice because you're able to see a lot of the area with a lot of wildlife. The boat ride is also fun and you see a lot of gators. There are also many birds throughout the plantation along with flowers along various paths.

Our family had a great time here! It was so nice to get up close to so many animals. We enjoyed our train tour and learned a lot! I only wish it was easier to take pictures during the tour. The cafe had great options for food. The gardens were lovely! We didn’t have time to do the silvery to freedom tour, but we will definitely be back to do it.

Beautiful Plantation with so much to see and do! We loved going over to the “look out platform” and seeing over the whole area! We also saw SO MANY alligators in the ponds! SO cool!We also LOVED the zoo! It had the coolest animals and was so fun to walk around and see them all up close!We visited the last week of May and noticed that none of the flowers in the gardens were blooming (could’ve just been an off and cold year for the flowers).RECOMMENDATIONS:- Bring Bug spray! We were a little unprepared and got EATEN ALIVE- Look up the tour times! The grounds are beautiful, but each segment (ex: house, garden, train tour etc) costs money and most of the segments have specific your hours! Look up your times to get the most out of your experience

This tour provided real and accurate information about slavery. No sugar coating, Gone With The Wind, it wasn't that bad narrative. Beautiful and breathtaking gardens, swamp and scenery. We did the big house, train and "From Slavery to Freedom" tours. We spent 3.5 hours and could have walked the garden more but, the 🦟 🦟 🦟 were hungry so we left 😂 A great tour and educational experience!

Beautiful gardens and worth the visit on fresh day, with a chance to see alligators during train ride.From slavery to freedom tour wasdisappointing by our opinion. It was mostly self tour with 20 minutes story while you have to sit in the pavilion.Guide was rude with kids (not mine but it felt wrong), taking into account that even our kids were bored and didn’t want to sit calmly who are big fun’s of any kid of excursion.

Very enjoyable experience! We took the train through the swamp area and later returned on foot to hike the trail through the swamp. We saw many birds, alligators, and turtles. Very unique atmosphere with an almost mystical quality

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Lovely grounds. You pull into the gravel parking lot and there is a Cafe/market to the left. Please know that is not the only place to grab a bite. You can access this, as well as the gift shop, prior to your paid entrance. We opted for a tour of the house for an additional $15pp. Not sure if I would do that again. We were maybe in there 15 minutes....maybe. it's self guided but there are volunteers to tell stories or answer questions. If you are expecting a grand southern plantation mansion, this is not it. Its a small 2 story home. The first thing you see upon entering the plantation is the large reflecting pond. Very beautiful. The next thing you'll notice is the livestock running amuck. Namely sheep. So be careful where you walk. 😉 they do have a lovely dining room. It was a very nice plantation. Lots of grounds to explore. Everyone was very nice. Just not that grand southern home. Not sure the livestock gets the best care. Which is why I gave it 4 stars.

We visited Middleton in late September 2022. Granted, hurricane Ian provided atypical weather, but in general, it’s probably not the best time to visit. Little to nothing was in bloom. The grounds were well kept and people were friendly and helpful. There were a few animals freely roaming - a handful of sheep and some swans. They had horse stables but nothing super interactive. There are some small buildings to showcase how the enslaved lived, but it’s not very detailed. The grounds had easy walking paths - mostly sand-based so if you are wearing sandals, know you’ll get a littledusty. There’s a restaurant on site which is nice. The beyond the fields tour … wasn’t a tour. You gather around under a tree, sit on benches and listen to a historian explain the enslaved conditions. It was informative, but different than how it was presented. There is a restroom, gift shop and plant shop in the parking area. It’s not a must-see for me. We spent about 2.5 hours here.

Absolutely gorgeous location. The oak trees are stunning, the gardens are lovely to stroll through, and I love a history lesson. We went to the restaurant last week and enjoyed the drive out, delicious food and co*cktails and friendly and helpful staff. Shout out to Maggie who helped us make memorable dish selections. Looking forward to coming back later this fall for a wine stroll. I went last year and enjoyed it so much, I am coming back with girlfriends! I would recommend it as a date or as a nice evening with friends.

Went on a Wednesday night when they were having one of their annual wine walks. Four stations with a red and a white wine as well as a cheese board and finger sandwiches at each station. The grounds were beautiful, not a lot of colorful flowers, but lots of greenery. The ponds had alligators and turtles, made for a magical night. Highly recommend.

Restaurant had a very good steak, but the locally made cinnamon ice cream, I honestly cannot stop thinking about it. The view outside this restaurant, although "wild" not tamed, alligators were ALL OVER THE PROPERTY, was Southern thick farmland and just spectacular. The property tour was very neat and the history was rich and interesting. The Inn was very different and unique, rooms had ceiling to floor windows showing the lush grounds. An interesting property worth the visit.

Breathtaking! This place was the highlight of our honeymoon. The cured gardens and ponds were like a dream. The staff are all very helpful and know their stuff or will send you to someone who does. What a pleasant and enjoyable day. Give yourself a whole day to soak in the history and experience of this estate. Enjoy!

Beautiful grounds and house. Wonderful restaurant on property with absolutely amazing food. House tour was very informative as were the historical interpreters around the grounds. Very relaxing and serene surroundings.

What a wonderful place to visit. It has great trails throughout the property, and it is so peaceful and beautiful. It is truly a step back in time. I loved the trails that were bordering the Ashley River.... phenomenal! A huge Osprey dove down, caught a fish, and flew right by us. So cool! We did not do the house tour, but I was perfectly content outside with the beautiful topography and interacting with all the animals, most excellent visit!

Incredible tour with lots to do! My husband and I spent 6 hours walking around the beautiful property, ate an incredible lunch and toured the main house. So many beautiful things to look at and a lot of rich history. Make sure to say hello to Arthur, the resident stable cat!

Great historical place to visit. Beautiful landscapes and the old buildings are amazing. Bring bottled water as it was hot a d humid and there is a lot of walking but, worth every minute of it.

Absolutely beautiful! Loved getting to walk around and explore the gardens- there were tons of free garden tours or other guides that you could listen to- to learn more information about. But overall it was such a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. It’s pretty far North Charleston- and tons of walking- we got there around 9:30am and didn’t get done until 12:45pm- so allocate for a good chunk of time here!

Absolutely loved it! Amazing grounds and scenery. The house tour was really cool, lots of history in the building. The restaurant waa nice, I didn't eat there, but it smelled amazing. Had a couple drinks at bar, beat Old Fashioned I have had in years! Huge shout out to Colby H.....kudos buddy!

We booked a tour van out to the estate which included transportation, tour of house and lunch. Self guided tour of grounds and gardens in between the timed tour and lunch.Beautiful place and well preserved house with interesting articles from the Middletons. Gardens are beautifully maintained. All of the staff were extremely helpful and kind. A must if visiting Charleston.

This is a lovely place to spend the day. We went specifically to see the Middleton Oak. The ticket agent was helpful with directions to get to the oak on the shortest route. The grounds are lovely with lots of wooded, shady paths. We saw swans in the reflecting pond and alligators in the flooded rice fields, which my daughter was very excited about. The two gift shops are very nice and well stocked with a variety of items of different price points.

Visiting from Georgia and this was such a fun outing! Bought student tickets online, quick and easy. The parking is good. The whole estate is very large and worth the price. There are some small trails around the swamp, some by the water, some around the garden. It is all well maintained and beautiful. We were not able to attend any of the tours but there are plenty scheduled throughout the day. The livestock here are very nice and obviously well taken care of. The chickens ran up to us expecting food, which kind of startled my partner. I loved the whole experience here. Though I do recommend coming when the heat of summer isn’t in full affect, we were dripping sweat by the time we were done here in July.

Great way to spend the afternoon in Charleston area. This place was brimming with history but had enough to keep all ages occupied. I have 4 kids aged 12-17 and they really enjoyed the grounds. The house tour is an addition that added a lot of context. They have numerous guided tours on the grounds themselves including a garden tour and a stable tour. Beautiful place and worth the trip.

Middleton has beautiful gardens and grounds along the Ashley River. You can find period reenactment of many of the trades that used to exist on the plantation, along with animals that would have been present during the Middleton family's residency. It has also been the set for movies, such as "The Patriot."The Foundation that runs Middleton does an excellent job maintaining the property and in recent years has been very open about the tragic reality that the Middleton family owned hundreds of enslaved people. It seems they are trying to do their part to preserve history and acknowledge the failings of the past.

Magnificent! You could spend all day here and still want to come back for more. The volunteers there are very knowledgeable and helpful, you can tell they love being there. A ton of history to absorb there. Animals are friendly and there is no shortage of picture opportunities. Restaurant on site is good but a little pricey.

I have been to Middleton multiple times over the years. It has beautiful gardens that you can get lost in. Don't look at the pics here. Just get out and see it. I went to a Creative mornings event that was hosted here and didn't pay but there is usually a fee. There is a cute garden center where you can buy plants, but the big draw is the incredible southern landscape. Enjoy!

Amazing plantation with knowledgeable guides and tons of history. We visited early October and the weather was spectacular. Did Beyond the Fields and Guided Garden Tour. Both were included in the admission price. Ate lunch in the restaurant which was wonderful. Our wait staff was engaging and attentive. (No tax on the bill!) Learned so much about slavery and history of the plantation. The trees alone were worth the visit. One was 1,000 years old! I highly recommend.

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Steps south of St. Michael's Church and even fewer steps from Rainbow Row the Heyward-Washington home is the smallest of the well known manors south of Broad and the least interesting. The home is sparsely decorated and not particularly large. There is a guided tour as well as a self-guided option using an iPod. We opted for the self guided one and it took less than 30 minutes. From a location point of view, we did the Edmonston-Alston and Nathaniel-Russell homes in the same afternoon. If looking to do a number of house tours we purchased The Charleston Heritage Passport which offered over six homes, the Middleton Plantation the Charleston Museum and few other sites. The passport lasts for five days after it's first use so plan accordingly but we found it was well worth it. Enjoy!

Dropped in to learn some history. Nice exhibits of colonial furniture and settings.

This was amazing! All furniture period accurate. Some pieces were owned by heard family. Some by extended relations. The Audio tour was really informative. Wasn't sure I'd like but it was great. Most excellent. Highlight of our trip.

Very nice tour experience. We especially liked the outdoor kitchen and small gardens. We visited the Heyward-Washington house in November and the weather was very pleasant and the crowds were small which gave us some time to meander through the house at our own pace. They have done a nice job explaining the house, features and what life was like then. Reasonably priced tour and worth the money.

A very interesting museum with priceless furniture. The tour was well done and we learned a lot. You can even walk into the room President George Washington slept.They let you freely walk around at your leisure.

Informative tour through house that hosted George Washington when he was in Charleston. The house has limited pieces that were actually in the house at the time period in question. It instead uses pieces of furniture, etc from the time period to represent what was actually in the house.

Nice historical house downtown. I toured as part of the Charlston Museum of Art three location package.

Well-preserved historic home. Self-guided audio tour available.

If you love history the audio tour at Hayward Washington house is really good. You will learn about Pres. George Washington's 2 week stay in Charleston, S. C. in 1791. There is a small but beautiful garden behind the house with the outdoor kitchen and laundry room and 2 story's of the 3 story home have been beautifully restored. Hubby and I felt it was well worth the admission price. But then, we LOVE history.

The guided tour is on a handheld device. You can visit the rooms in any order and hear the information from the device. Lots of interesting history and artifacts. Garden is pretty. I was entertained. Well done. The museum 3 site deal was a good value. We saw the 3 sites across two days.

This was the only house we toured during the few days of our visit to Charleston. We were told that this was THE house if we toured any, and we were not disappointed. The guide did a great job explaining life in the house during the Revolutionary War period. The furnishings were a collection of pieces of local origin during that time period. The topic of slavery was not ignored and described during the tour. The circ*mstances of George Washington's stay at the house during his presidential tour of the region was interesting to hear. I recommend this house tour to anyone visiting the area.

Of all the house tours we did during our visit to Charleston, this was the best. The house has some beautiful artifacts and our tour guide was phenomenal! She was very interesting, informative, enthusiastic and answered all our questions. After touring the house and getting a good description of it, you can self-tour the grounds which includes the kitchen, wood working shop, bathroom, stable and gardens. Parking was a few blocks away at a lot near a nice dog park. Very few of the attractions in Charleston have parking and none of the websites offer any help on locating parking nearby so expect to use parking meters or pay at lots that you luck into as you pass by. Thus house is well worth your time and if you get the package deal you can go to the Manigault House and the Charleston Museum as well for one reasonable price!

Nice historic home. Due to short staff, we arrived at 15 minutes after the hour and then had to wait until the next hour for a guided tour. No self-guided tours were allowed. But overall it was worth the wait.

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Loved this place.So beautiful. Everything is so clean and well manicured. We walked the butterfly garden and was just so cool to watch the butterflies around us.Took some cool pictures in the driveway driving up under all of the gorgeous oak trees.Did the tour of the home. This was a tad bit disappointing as the whole upstairs us closed off as it is an active residence. No pics allowed in home at all.Took a ride of the grounds. Great speaker and very informative. So much preserved which was cool to see.Walked the row of homes used for slaves. I enjoyed the audio in each of the units.Overall gorgeous grounds to walk on a beautiful day.

This place is beautiful and full of history. I'm so happy we got the chance to visit while staying at Charleston. The employees that work there are amazing and make you feel so welcome. We thought that we were going to be there for maybe two to three hours but we loved it so much we decided to stay and enjoy all the activities they offer. They have a Cafe inside the property but I do recommend bringing water and some snacks because if you love nature like we do you won't want to leave.

Wonderful visit to this, still working, farm and plantation. The grounds are beautiful, particularly the oak lined drive that you travel to get to the main area. We did the stable, house and grounds tours. All guides were very engaging. Such rich history, and grateful that the private owner continues to open her property up for us all to enjoy and learn! We did the AAA tickets which were incredibly reasonable @25 each.

A beautiful plantation from the late 1600’s with multiple tours included in the $29 admission price. ($12 for children).The house and gardens are spectacular. There is a small conservatory that is nice next to the butterfly cafe. There is a stable and a polo field.There is an open air trolley pulled by a tractor that skirts around the creek and active farm fields. On this weekend they had strawberry picking.There are multiple old buildings with exhibits and an outdoor theater. Next to these exhibits is a building at the waters edge being used today for a wedding. A very pleasant venue.

This is the perfect site to see if you’re near Charleston. It is a great mix of history, nature, and gardens. They have historical guides tours around the plantation and nature tours, which I highly recommend. Several presentations were offered, though I only attended the Gullah show, and it was incredible! All in all, I spent about 4 hours here and could have spent more.

We’ll worth the time & money to visit this plantation. We went with kids and they enjoyed it too (ages 6-13). Grounds are beautiful and so is the home. House is still being used so you can only see the first floor. Guides are informative and seem to enjoy their jobs. Horses on the property are beautiful and have some connection to racing. They do have a tractor ride and cafe (food is mediocre). Be sure to take in the butterfly garden too. We spent like 5 hours and enjoyed every bit of it!

The property is exquisitely preserved and maintained. The current owners live on the property and ensure that this piece of history lives on for all to see. The tours are excellent too, although due to weather, the tractor tour wasn't running. A special shout out to the tour hosts and narration which was detailed, not boring, and factual, not diluted nor exaggerated. The slave cabins are not reproductions - they're real and reality. Gardens are beautiful and a peaceful place to ponder what was just learned. Snack bar and souvenir shop too. Best on the area IMHO.

I love history and the stories behind the plantation and its enslaved people were heartbreaking, surprising, and hopeful. The current owners seem to be wonderful people. Wish we could have explored more, but rain put a quick end to our tours, hence, the lack of more photos. Also, we were forbidden from taking photos inside the home. Will have to return to see more.

Excellent visit to Boone Hall. The Gullah theater presentation was amazing - made me laugh, cry, and learn what it really meant to lose one's freedom in one world and come to another as a slave. It is a must as it sets this historical visit apart from any I have ever done. The Plantation house is interesting - again it's different as in what it produced. The Nature / Farming tractor ride is a lot of fun for all ages. Ted does a Talk on what it was like then and now and throws in a lot of interesting info and fun along the way. I've always loved the live oaks with the dripping Spanish moss that lines their branches - Boone Hall has the best drive up to the house and it is lined with massive oaks!

Great experience at this plantation and working farm. All exhibits, talks, & self-guided walks are included in the admission. The tractor tour gives you the most information about the grounds, its history & how it operates today. Beautiful grounds. Be sure to visit the pumpkin patch & spooky tractor rides in Oct. Grab some fresh produce at their near by farm stand.

Compared to the other plantations, the most special thing here is just the avenue of the oaks. Lots of tours are included with the ticket so it is a good value. The grounds are nice to see. It is technically still an operational farm just for educational purposes. The tractor ride was fun and probably my favourite part. The Gullah show should not be missed if you go. We went a little over three hours here.

We visited Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens while on a Valentine's Day getaway to the Charleston area. It was definitely one of the highlights of our trip! Guests approach the plantation on a dirt road lined by majestic oak trees. Horses graze on the right and slave quarters exist on the left. An iron gate guards the plantation main house, a structure that has been featured in a number of movies and television shows including The Notebook and the Queen mini-series.We took the tour of the main house. The tour told the history of the building and its owners. We discovered that the present house is actually the fourth main building on the property. Another fun fact was that the owners didn't necessarily live on the property, but would choose to live closer to town where conveniences and doctor care would be more accessible. An overseer would then live on the plantation property.We also took the tractor tour that tells the story of the acreage surrounding the house. The land is protected and presently is used to grow several different kinds of crops.We then walked around the slave quarters and viewed the educational presentations in each building. We were surprised that on this particular plantation the slaves may have been better nourished than the owners because they would hunt at night and thus have adequate protein to eat. Buried bones of such hunts have been found around the slave quarters.We took many pictures of the property. Pictures inside the main house are not allowed, however. There is much to see here and we spent two hours on our visit. We would have stayed longer but we had a bit of a schedule to keep for our trip. But we plan on returning someday to enjoy the grounds and learn more about the history that the site provides. We especially look forward to hearing the historical talks and Gullah presentation at the enslaved quarters.For those who choose an extended visit, a Butterfly House offers lunch items for sale. For those looking for an interesting look at past history of the south and lessons on plantation living and enslaved persons, this is a great place to visit.

Gorgeous and historic piece of land in Charleston's history. A must do in my opinion especially if you are visiting the area for the first time like we were. Lots of history lessons, tours, talks and the like if you so choose. Otherwise you can wander the property on your own. No parking fee as of March 2022. Admissions fee includes everything on site except food and souvenirs of course. Lots of gorgeous photo opportunities. You will get a schedule/map as you arrive and you have to go to the hospitality house as you enter to schedule your tour of the mansion if you would like to do that. There are bathrooms in the hospitality house as well. Well worth the fee in my opinion.

We visited on a cool Friday morning and had an incredible time here! The rich history here, although incredibly awful and representative of our country’s grave mistakes, is a must see as the tragedies of slavery deserve to be brought to light. This plantation does a great job at showcasing the past while also embracing the area as a whole with incredible wedding venues and activities. I highly recommend visiting and also taking advantage of the many tours and shows available in order to get the most out of your visit!

Such a wonderful experience at Boone Hall Plantation! The main house is beautiful, no pictures are permitted inside. The gardens are stunning! Weddings are held there almost 200 days of the year. The grounds are well kept, arrival and tours are well organized and the staff is lovely. Cute little Cafe and gift shop. The tractor ride takes you through the active farming land. Very well done and truly worth the trip. The live oak trees are about 278 years old and are magnificent! There is one tree over 500 years old!

Great experience! For $28, a great price for everything that is included. Arrive early and give yourself plenty if time for all of the guided tours, and extra time to explore on your own! MAKE absolutely SURE you visit the Gullah Experience and make time to wander the garden.Butterfly Garden was a little underwhelming, however everything else totally made up for it!

A little pricey for what it is, but nonetheless a cool experience. Wagon rides and house tours included in general admission. Besides the farm tour and house tour there is not much more to do. A small cafe and small gift shop and a butterfly house. Gardens are small but pretty cute. Trees are beautiful.

Tour was not what I expected. The Geechie tour guide was GREAT! The BIG HOUSE tour guide, not so much as we were only able to view TWO rooms in the house. The plantation has been kept up immaculately. The cafe/gift shop was small but staff were friendly and quick. Solar powered golf carts would have also been nice for seniors to get around in.

There are some amazing views and tours on this property. They are able to teach about 300+ years of history. Many of the sites are breathtaking and unimaginable. There were conflicting stories from the various tour guides in different areas that are slightly upsetting. I was also a little flabbergasted that the home that is here was not a "plantation house". The home was built in the 1930's? by a Canadian Diplomat. They are also unable to correctly state whether the slave quarters were built by the Boone's or much later by the Horlebeck's. Having said that, this was a great way to spend several hours learning about this portion of the state and the history behind it. The price is not too bad compared to other locations and the trees (Southern Live Oaks) are breathtaking. On the Oaks is what is called Spanish Moss which is NOT Spanish Moss and a fern that is called, Resurrection Fern!! To learn about the vast majority of crops that are still planted today and the amount of events is crazy. There are over 150 weddings per year and there is a two year waiting list!

Boone Hall is an amazing walk (literally) into the past. Its historical significance can't be overstated. The grounds not only represent an important part of American history, they are also a great place for all generations to understand its place in Southern history. Having been used in many films, it is a beautiful backdrop that more film companies will likely utilize. Its beauty can be overshadowed by the fact that slavery and its history are extremely controversial. Regardless of your position on the matter, it's entirely worth a visit and engaging in the tours. They are very informative.

Magnificent grounds with a lot of history. Each tour lasted approximately 30 minutes and the guides provided a wealth of information. We went in the mid afternoon a couple hours before closing time. There were no issues with crowds. Reasonably priced.

We wish we had more time to learn about life on the plantation at different points in time. We missed the Gullah presentation, it was not offered frequently enough and we were in a timetable! We were able to view the first floor of the main house, learning its history and that of the farm, view the slave/share cropper cabins and learn about the construction and history, attend a sweet grass demonstration and tour the farm to learn about current day operations which was very informative! The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable.

I researched touring plantations before we traveled to Charleston. Boone Hall Plantation came up as one of the best to learn about black and slave history, even though it’s not located in Charleston. I’m glad we went. The folks there were clearly passionate about what they do, from the lady who explained Gullah culture and slave trade, to the lady who enthusiastically talked about their horses and their triple crown offsprings; to the laid back guy on the farm and nature tour who talked about local farming, wildlife and nature. it was an eye opening, educational experience. I believe we all should go and learn about our nation’s history. It happened to be Black history month, so we were lucky to be treated with some delicious Gullah cuisine. It was a once in a lifetime experience that I will not forget. Thank you, Boone Hall Plantation.

Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens, located in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, offers a glimpse into the complex history of the South. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:History:Founded in 1681, Boone Hall is one of America's oldest plantations still operating.The iconic avenue of live oak trees, planted in 1743, is a beautiful and evocative symbol of the South's plantation era.Tours explore the history of the Boone family and the enslaved people who labored on the plantation. The Black History in America Exhibit sheds light on the lives of enslaved people and their descendants.Things to See and Do:Guided tours of the beautifully restored Georgian-style mansion (built in 1936) offer a look into planter life.Nine original slave cabins depict life for enslaved people throughout American history.Explore Gullah culture, a unique African American culture developed by enslaved people in the Lowcountry, through a live presentation.Immerse yourself in the beauty of the botanical gardens, featuring over 100-year-old antique roses and a butterfly pavilion.Family-friendly events are held throughout the year, like the Lowcountry Strawberry Festival and the Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch.Considerations:Boone Hall grapples with its history of slavery. While some plantations downplay this aspect, Boone Hall strives to present a comprehensive picture. Be prepared to confront the realities of the past.Ticket prices include admission to the house tours, gardens, and exhibits.Overall, Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens is a valuable place to learn about Southern history, both the beauty and the brutality. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the complex past of the region.

This plantation is breathtakingly beautiful and well taken care of. All the staff members are friendly and very knowledgeable about the history that took place. There is a little cafe with souvenirs as well as food and drinks. There are about 10 tables inside as well as some outdoor seating. The big house is remarkable as well as the gardens out front - the gardens are shaped to resemble 2 butterfly wings. Going through the slave houses is very educational. There are artifacts and audio in each to give a history of that time period. They also host special events here such as weddings. I would definitely recommend this Plantation to anyone visiting Charleston.

I was very hesitant to visit a plantation. But I feel better after going, seeing how it does not gloss over how everything we saw was due to, and because of, slavery. Each tour we did talked about slave life and didn't gloss over the horrific history.The grounds are stunning and learning about their agricultural stance on crops, soil preservation, and indigenous planting was fascinating.You could easily spend an entire day here.

I was apprehensive about visiting a plantation, however, I'm so glad we did. This place focused so much on the Gullah people with reverence to their culture. After we left the plantation we really grasped how important it is to preserve and teach our history, good and bad so we can learn from our past. Thank goodness the McRaes had the foresight to dedicate and preserve this property for future generations.

This site is fascinating. There are so many interesting facts shared about all five of the previous owners and the changes that made the site what it is today. It truly is beautiful.What I found most fascinating is that there was so little acknowledgement of the 'enslaved labourers' that actually built the grounds. This is a missed opportunity to educate the public on what slavery entailed.It's amazing that the site is still named after one of the slave owners... The site could be used to honour those who gave their lives during that period of history, but instead it shares the stories of wealthy Europeans who inherited their fortunes.

We came here around noon and didn't leave until 5 pm. There is a lot to see and great history to absorb. You could easily do the trip in less time if you didn't go in all the self-guided houses, but we like to see all the details.I want to add, this is largely an outdoor experience (hopefully that's understood, but just in case you were wondering). With the basic tour, you spend about 30 min inside the house (still worth it!), so plan accordingly. We went in early January and the winter months clearly are more bare, but they were still maintaining the garden and the winter foliage was thriving. With any largely outdoor experience, I would be very interested to go back in the spring or fall!

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Our new favorite aquarium!!Sea turtles are some of our favorite animals, and this is the first aquarium we've been to that has so many of them. Loved seeing the turtle recovery area and all them being well taken care of!We had a blast and the pricing was much cheaper than some of the other aquariums we have been to.

What a fun experience! My fiancé and I were down in Charleston for the weekend and we were really looking forward to our visit here- it did not disappoint! We went on a Monday at 11. I liked how they are very specific with your check in time upon purchase of tickets, although it wasn’t crowded at all! Everyone is so friendly from the jump. A very kind lady greeted us at the front and informed us of the events and shows that were going on that day. We spent a lot of time in the turtle exhibit area where we talked for a while with one of the employees about the rehabilitation and release program they conduct for sea turtles. They are all excellent in showing their passion for the mission and educating the public on what we can do to help. There were so many exhibits and animals to look at and read about! Definitely a must visit if you are in the area and love marine life.

This place was okay; a nice place to go with kids. A bit pricey based on their small-ish collection and lack of animals, compared to other aquariums. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. Overall, if you're on a trip with your family and you can afford it, it's worth a visit. There are plenty of things here that a child will enjoy, but if you're expecting a truly unique aquarium experience, you might not find what you're looking for.

Spent a little over an hour here after appointments. My daughter has been wanting to go, and she's in her 30's. So aquariums aren't just for younger kids🥰 It was small, but packed a bunch. Lots of interactive activities. She loved petting the sting rays. The turtle rescue exhibit was informative. Overall a great place to visit. However, a little pricey.

We were in town for a weekend and wanted an indoor activity with AC. Decided to check this spot out.We bought tickets online in advanced for a timed entry. Got there and no wait.A cool aquarium but very small. I haven’t gone to many aquariums but this was small.Everything you’d imagine seeing at an aquarium and some random exhibits like an American bald eagle and a worker with a pet snake.They did have some areas you can pet stingrays and other sea creatures.Overall not with the price. They should charge $15 not $35.

Love this aquarium, it is very clean and well maintained. Still can't believe how close you are able to get to a bald eagle. The main salt water tank is the deepest in the country and has over 500 fish in it including about half a dozen sharks and a huge sea turtle. The kids learned a lot coming here and were entertained for hours. Feeding the sting rays were so much fun too. Make sure to check the show times so you don't miss any of the events.

This was a pleasant laid back experience. The aquarium doesn't have as many exhibits as some other state/large aquariums. It's 2 levels but still on the small side. There is an eagle exhibit (one eagle named Liberty) which was cool. The sea turtle rescue area was cool with views of rehabilitating turtles and the operating/examination room is one way glass.

A little late posting this, but my fiancé and I attended the "SEA you at Formal" Winter Formal. The Charleston Aquarium hosted this event for Charleston Southern University Students and it was a blast! Not only was the aquarium decorated, but we were all able to check out all the exhibits! It was such a magical night! I would highly recommend the Charleston Aquarium to all families as I know kids would love this!

A very relaxing and calming environment, with lots of interactive exhibits for kids or anyone else.The turtle rehabilitation is outstanding, educational and helping wildlife.Otters, hawks, and other creatures are also part of the menagerie here.There's no wait if you get tickets in advance online, which also means it should be crowded.

Good aquarium experience, decent size, free wheelchair use, nice mix of large tank, interactive experiences, immersive walk-through environment, theatre, and even a couple avian displays. Great Oceanside location, Good inexpensive parking…

Nice small aquarium. (Reason for 4 star, had hoped it would be bigger). Had a good day visiting with kids. Easy to leave and come back for lunch. Snack bar looks ok but not many choices and only place to sit is outside. If your kids like to touch animals this place has lots of opportunities. They have a Trading Post program. Your kids can bring in shells, snake skin, fossils, bones to trade for other cool nature finds. If your new(like us) they can answer a few questions about the animals to earn points and get a treasure. Easily could visit place in 1/2 a day if get here when it opens. Lots of shows and animal encounters all day long. Parking is across the street and reasonably priced. Not a lot of food choices around. A couple sandwich shops about 5 min walk away.

You have a small walk from the parking deck to the aquarium. All pay parking from what I seen. You definitely want to buy tickets a day or two ahead for lower pricing. Awesome exhibits, few were hands on with getting to pet and or feed rays, and petting sharks. Kids learning area on second floor. It does have elevators as well as stairs and escalators. Over all entry price was a bit high when bought same day but very nice experience none the less.

Fun place to go with kids or alone. We were able to see every exhibit without feeling rushed. And the kids got to pet stingrays, horseshoe crabs, sea urchins, starfish. Even a few others while the employees have the out to teach about them (baby alligator and different turtles). I would def recommend going

We absolutely enjoyed the aquarium! There were so many different interactive things for them to do there. Between petting mini tiger sharks, starfish, and sting rays! It was a very fun place. They also have this amazing turtle hospital where they rehab turtles from the area that are sick or injured. They show you details on each of their check ups and updates on their recovery! The employees are all super friendly as well. It was awesome to see the employee playing ball with the otters. We had a great time!!!

Wonderful experience! It’s not a huge aquarium and won’t take you longer than two hours unless you really get i to each exhibit. But the staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly and will talk to you and tell you so much about the animals.We loved the hands on area in which you can pet Star Fish, little sharks, Shoe Horn crabs, and more.The huge aquarium is the deepest one in the US, going down 42 feet and spans two stories. We spent quite some time watching the sea life, in part enjoying “Green Bean” - the big, green eel.There is also a turtle rehabilitation hospital that is really cool.Definitely worth a visit.

The aquarium was quite small, a little overpriced ($36).The fish tanks look clean and they looked like they are well taken care of.The staff was very nice as well.The coolest was the sea turtle exhibit/rehabilitation center inside. You can see the turtles they are caring for, you can read up on their history, and their recovery process. It quite a unique part of this aquarium that I haven’t seen in others.I also felt like you have a tiny bit more options to be close to certain animals which was different (emphasis on tiny bit though).Overall, it was a cute aquarium.

I spent basically my whole time with all the sea turtles especially Coretta I had tears of joy watching this beautiful sea turtle swim around...there is also a sea turtle hospital that was great to see..we saw some scuba divers in the tank checking out the tank ...by the looks of the aquarium they take very good care of all the animals big and small. I highly recommend this aquarium especially if you like sea turtles, I am not sure of the cost this was a birthday surprise

Great place to learn about the local marine life. The aquarium has exhibits ranging from the mountains to the open sea filled with a variety of animals. It's a good place to hang around for a couple of hours and has good views of the Charleston harbor. The only downside is its smaller size when compared to other aquariums. However, it has good prices to make up for it. I would highly recommend seeing everything once.

117.00 for mom, dad and 7 yo. I've been before and one of the most fun aquariums thanks to a nice collection of local sea life and some unique features such as letting the stingrays and some nice places to sit and just enjoy. The staff is gracious and the proximity to the Fort Sumter experience makes it even more convenient thanks to the large parking garage and the museum and ferry next door.You can get quality of time spent on vacation really well done in this area.

I was in town visiting with family. My neice-in-law has a season pass and takes the "littles" quite often. I had always wanted to go, and so we did. Such a nice , clean, beautiful place! The children and I just loved all the exhibits and inter-action activities there are. What a fun place and such cool creatures to see. I would highly recommend going.

This is a review of the South Carolina aquarium located in Charleston South Carolina.Happy to report that this facility does honor military discount with proper ID and if you park in the parking garage which is City owned then you will get free parking if you have handicap disabled veteran tags.Everyone we encounters that worked for the aquarium was smiling friendly and very helpful from the people who are standing outside telling you where to go to the young men and women who are taking the money for the tickets to especially all the employees inside who were working with the animals everyone is super professional friendly and absolutely awesome.In particular the first young lady that we encountered whose name is Anna who was working first thing in the morning at the outside Sea Ray tank was so awesome that we even got to go on a behind the scenes tour of the giant tank as she selected a whole bunch of people from the building that day. I have been to this aquarium several times and this was the first time I got to do it behind the scenes tour it was absolutely great to have her take the time to show about a dozen of us around how feeding worked how filtration worked for the giant tanks how they tried to save endangered species and was willing to answer any questions anybody could come up with she was super knowledgeable and absolutely fantastic.If you look at the website for the aquarium you'll notice that they have gone to a time-sensitive fee schedule meaning that Saturdays which is the day that we went was the most expensive every single day is different so you will need to look at the website before you go in to figure out what the price will be for your tickets for that day.Absolutely 10 out of 10 experience ❤️

My kids loved exploring this place. The aquarium has a ton of interactive exhibits for the kids to enjoy. In one of the rooms it features an illuminated life size giant squid and jellyfish (see video).Here’s a little known admissions tip if your budget is tight. Your local library has passes for the aquarium & children’s museums of the Lowcountry (if you’re a local resident). The pass admits 2 adults and 8 children.

This is one of my favorite local places!! I read online that it got listed as a pricey tourist trap, but I don't think most people understand its purpose. It's a turtle recovery and rehab hospital first. It exists to rescue and help sea turtles. My entrance fee and paying $30 for a T-shirt goes to fund helping turtles that were injured. Every time I visit, I get to see the new turtles that are being helped. Plus, I feed the stingrays! Go. Pay your fee. Buy a T-shirt. Yes, it costs a little bit of money. But it is SO worth it!

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Absolutely a hidden gem. Highly recommended to anyone who wants to have a relaxing and history-immersed time in Charleston.Awesome location. Walking distance to historical downtown. Right next to the White Point park.We had the 3rd floor one-bedroom and one-living room suite. The view was very serene. The bed was comfortable. We were able to make a floor bed for our 10 year-old.The afternoon wine and snack time was the most relaxing time I've had in months. The hosts were super nice and generous. They went out of their way to make your stay wonderful. Special thanks to Molly!

We stayed at 20S Battery this past weekend and absolutely loved it. The staff was incredible from pre-check in communication to check out. The attention to detail and hospitality were fantastic. Don’t hesitate. The location is perfect and the rooms were great. A must stay!

Absolutely wonderful stay in this beautiful historic mansion. The property and location are stunning. The staff is accommodating and super helpful. There is so much more than meets the eye - the history behind this property is extensive and well represented in every room throughout the inn. I would highly recommend breakfast, enjoying a glass of wine and cheese plate in the ballroom and a coffee in the garden. Overall my stay here was lovely and I look forward to returning soon!

We absolutely LOVED this beautiful historic. My mother in law and I took our first trip to Charleston and even before we arrived, the staff at 20 South Battery made us feel more than welcomed. Shoutout to Molly, Suzanne, and Ryan! During our stay, Molly went above and beyond to take care of us and meet every need even on our early morning departure. Molly had a breakfast waiting for us. We would definitely stay again in this true southern gem. From the ambiance, decor, hospitality, breakfast to the evening wine and cheese, this was the best place to stay in Charleston.

We had the most delightful stay at this wonderful 175-year old B&B located right on The Battery in Charleston. It was entirely renovated recently to impeccable standards. The home is a beautiful place to stay and just chill and our room was excellent. The service from all of the staff was superb.

Absolutely adore this place! The house is gorgeous, the staff is so friendly and the location is unmatched. We received a house tour, local breakfast in bed and wine and cheese every night! We followed their list of recommended restaurants like the Bible and everywhere we went was 10/10! I’d recommend this place in a heartbeat and we will be back!

My husband and I stayed at this lovely, historical mansion for our 30th Anniversary. The mansion decor and architecture is truly amazing. Abigail, Molly, and Ryan were thoughtful and fantastic hosts. In the evening, we relaxed in the ballroom with wine and cheese and in the morning enjoyed breakfast in the charming dining room. We stayed in the Siimonds Suite overlooking the Battery. The suite was beautiful, clean, and spacious. We look forward to returning. Highest rating on the coffee, too!

The staff at this hotel are absolutely lovely, friendly and insightful and do a great deal of work single handedly running the hotel. They were extremely welcoming and helped us so much with information about the area. The hotel is in an amazing location, and it is wonderful to stay in such a historic building in Charleston. The gardens are stunning too, and the house scale is really impressive. However, I feel it is overpriced for certain things. Soaps, shampoos etc not refreshed daily, beds not always made. The bedding, like pillows and duvet were artificial and could have been a lot more luxurious given the cost. The breakfast choices are limited as there is not a chef or a working kitchen so everything needs to be bought in. The hotel is also not really "restored" but more painted over with high gloss white paint which does not reflect the era or the original style of the home, as it was originally painted frescoes and dark wood. If restored to its former glory in keeping with it's history and time period, this place would be even more stunning. Overall a lovely place to stay, but overpriced.

What an absolute treasure! Molly, Ryan and Tommy are wonderfully gracious and helpful in making our stay extra special. We celebrated my wife’s birthday and this was her first time in Charleston. We will be back!

My wife and I visited Dr. Schaeffer and his excellent staff at 20 South Battery for our 20th anniversary. It could not have been a more perfect trip. The house is amazing. Dr Schaeffer has done a terrific job with the restoration. His passion for the house, history, and community shines through. Abigal and the hospitality staff were warm and gracious throughout our stay. The breakfasts were amazing every morning. We looked forward to wine and cheese in the parlor every evening when Dr Schaeffer would stop by and discuss his work on the house while we visited with the other guests.We stayed in room 3 in the carriage house. The room was beautiful with period furniture and a super comfortable bed. Our stay was a true luxury experience and we will definitely be staying again.

We spent the weekend at 20 South Battery Aug 25-27. What a wonderful experience! There are really no words for the beauty of this mansion. You have to see it for yourself. Of course there is missing floor tiles and a few other things if you are ultra picky about your surroundings but that’s part of the charm because who can replace hundreds of years old tiles perfectly! I would recommend 20 South Battery to anyone who can handle walking upstairs and anyone who appreciates history! Not a better spot to stay in Charleston

Directly across the street from Battery Park, it's in a beautiful walkable neighborhood, but still a 15 minute walk to the thick of things Downtown. We needed to bring our bags early and have them held before we left and they were very kind and accommodating. The breakfast was great. They have free access to bottled water and sodas. All the staff and service was incredible. We stayed in the Simmonds Suite and the room and furnishings were gorgeous, and the bed was absolutely luxurious. Will definitely stay again!

Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, staying in a home built in the early 1800s on the battery in Charleston. From the delightful breakfast brought to our room every morning, to wine and cheese in the afternoon on the veranda, to a nightcap before bed, everything was perfect. The staff did everything in there power to make sure our stay was amazing and it was.

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READ THESE WORDS!! GO GO GO GO….it was fabulous, funny, heartwarming and a lovely experience. The actors were reeling with talent and true joy. They snickered at each other sharing in the fun, and impromptu comedy. They are also friends, you can tell by watching masterful choreography fall into place. Again, GOOOOOOOOO! I’ve already bought tickets to the next show, The Golden Girls Live! Thank you for an evening of happiness. Side note, drinks and snacks are delightful too!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We just left the theater the name of the play was Addicted to Love and we had a great time, we laughed till we cried! Such talent and the physical comedy absolutely will tickle your funny bone. My husband and I highly recommend if you're looking for an evening of entertainment

First time visit and what a delight. Fun evening, the cast really loves what they do. I enjoyed the laughter

We went to see I'm Still Standing and it was a geat show. The staff were so friendly ans accommodating and the performers put on such a brilliant performance.

My fiancé, Nana, and girlfriend went to the showing of Fools Rush In last night and we couldn’t have asked for a better night out. The theater and staff were so accommodating of our need for special seating. The performance was so funny and clever. We can’t wait to go back! Thank you for a spectacular evening! And my fiancé wants to add simply enjoyable!

Just experienced Fools Rush In in downtown Charleston. An incredibly fun and entertaining evening. A welcoming and intimate setting where I felt like I was in a room full of friends. Beverages & snacks, too. The show was fabulous - Great singing and the comedic talent was exceptional. Belly laughs throughout. Highly recommend! I will visit again on my next trip to Charleston.

Our best date nights end (or start) at 34 west and have for 7 years! Steve & Jeff are not only unbelievably talented but incredible and compassionate human beings. The whole crew is lovely, snacks and drinks are delightful, and the entertainment is top notch!!

Recently saw Staying Alive at 34 West Theatre Company and it was hilarious! Haven’t laughed that hard and as much in a long time! If you’re looking for a great date night out this is one of those out-of-the-box ideas that is a home run. I’m a local and can’t wait for the next show it was that good.

This place is amazing!!! The actors were the ones taking us to our seats and working the bar (the lemon sparkle is fantastic) which was so cool. The play was hilarious (Moonshine). We had the best time and will definitely be back. The only issue is the chairs! They are the most uncomfortable things I've ever sat in. Other than that, it was a great experience.

SUCH a fun experience. Our family enjoyed I'm Still Standing on our evening in Charleston. I wouldn't hesitate to come back if visiting again.

What an amazing experience!! I haven’t laughed that much in a long time, so Thank You! Will definitely be seeing every new show! Keep up the Fantastic Job! You won’t be disappointed with “Can’t Buy Me Love”

What a neat experience! I loved the venue it was decorated and such a groovy way which matched the play that we went to see called a groovy kind of love. The people that were waiting on us were the same actors that were in the play which was a very pleasant surprise also. You could order snacks and drinks and that was wonderful. The bathroom was very nice and clean and tidy. The actors were talented and funny and very engaging. I cannot say enough good things about this theater company I cannot wait to go back!

Terrific! The every show we have attended was so funny, so entertaining. Truly a talented group.

This theater is amazing and full of talented actors! Tonight me and my daughter laughed til we cried - I’m still standing is another masterpiece! I’ve been a spectator for years and will continue to make a visit every time we’re in town from Charlotte.

I had the privilege to see FOOLS RUSH IN last Saturday night. The cast was amazingly hilarious. I was laughing throughout most of the show. The other moments of the show were emotional and struck at my heart strings. I look forward to seeing more shows from this cast if I can make the trip.

Every show they’ve done in the 10 years we’ve been subscribers has been over-the-top wonderful. So creative, so clever, so so funny. It’s the best 90 minutes (or so) you can spend in Charleston. You’ll leave with a smile! A hidden gem with the locals but it’s always full with visitors and some locals like us.

Love this place! As they say, a hidden gem. However, as people discover it, it’s not so hidden anymore as their shows sell out at times - and for good reason. They are clever, funny and just plain fun!! A great, intimate setting. I’ve seen every show since I moved here 3 years ago. Can’t wait till the next one.

We had an amazing time attending Fools Rush In at the 34 West Theater Company! It was funny, entertaining and a unique date night. The intimate setting of the theater added to the overall experience, creating a cozy and immersive atmosphere (with great drink and snack choices!). I can't believe this was our first time and look forward to the future productions. I highly recommend checking them out!

I saw my first production at 34 West tonight and was blown away. Such a Charleston gem. If you’re looking for an amazing evening filled with laughter, incredible talent and some of the kindest people you’ll ever encounter, look no further. While this is our first show, we can’t wait for the next one. Thank you for a wonderful evening!!!