The Historic Charleston City Market is a great place to start your trip in Charleston. Open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, this market sells a variety of local goods and souvenirs, from sweetgrass baskets to handmade jewelry. It's a must-see attraction that gives visitors a sense of the city’s rich history and culture.
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens (open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm) is a National Historic Landmark and one of America's oldest working plantations. This plantation features a beautiful garden, a Gullah cultural presentation, and a tour of the 8-room mansion. It’s a great place to learn about the Lowcountry history and culture.
The Battery & White Point Gardens is a historic landmark and park located at the tip of the Charleston Peninsula. The park opens at dawn and closes at dusk. It offers beautiful views of the Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge, as well as picturesque walking paths and historic monuments. It’s a great way to spend a relaxing day while still soaking up some Charleston history.
Charleston is a walkable city, so walking around downtown is a great way to see the city. Another option is to use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. A rental car is also recommended if you plan on going out of the city to plantations or nearby beaches. Estimated costs can range from $10-20 for ride-sharing services, and around $50 per day for car rentals.
If you have more time, you can visit other iconic Charleston landmarks like the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens or the USS Yorktown. For foodies, the Charleston culinary scene is worth exploring. There are many great restaurants serving local cuisine. If you have less time, you can skip the Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens and spend more time exploring the city's many historic sites.
The Charleston International Airport (CHS) is the main airport in Charleston, located about 12 miles northwest of downtown Charleston. It's a relatively small airport, but it has several airlines serving the area with flights to many major cities. The distance from the city center is approximately 12 miles, and it is easily accessible by ride-sharing services or taxi.