subject: Top Things To Do In Charleston [print this page] The historic charm and vibrancy of the city certainly make Charleston South Carolina stand out as a place to visit. Charleston combines old style charm with the vitality of youth. Historic Charleston is steeped with history. From the beginnings of the Civil War at Fort Sumter to the numerous historic homes and southern plantations, Charleston is a Mecca for historians. With so many things to do in Charleston, it is difficult to narrow it down. However for me there are a few things that stand out among the rest.
1. Take a carriage ride through historic Charleston. These rides are reasonably priced and there are usually coupons available at local hotels to discount the price. Private tours are also available, but these cost a good deal more money. (During the hottest summer days, the horse carriages do not run for horse health reasons.)
2. Visit the sea turtle hospital at the South Carolina Aquarium. This will cost a little extra, but the money you spend will go to help the Sea Turtles. Be sure and check the times because tours are only scheduled a couple of times each day.
3. Tour a traditional plantation.
Middleton Place, currently listed on the National Historic register, houses Americas oldest landscaped gardens. Re-enactors are in place near the stable yards performing traditional southern activities. Be sure to visit the restaurant while visiting and enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by southern charm.
Magnolia Plantation is great for the outdoor enthusiast, providing numerous photo opportunities. This plantation was founded in 1676. There is a nature train, boat tour, swamp garden, and petting zoo also located on site.
4. The Charleston Tea Plantation located right outside of Charleston on Wadmalaw Island is the only tea plantation in North America. Take the economic, educational trolley tour of the plantation and enjoy the free samples of delicious teas. I found a coupon for the trolley tour on line.
5. Take a visit to the out door roof top bar of the Market Pavilion Hotel located on 225 East Bay Street. This offers a spectacular view of both the river and city. Grab a table and enjoy a soda or cocktail before your evening meal while you are enjoying the view.
6. For a lot of fun and without hurting your pocket book try out Tommy Condons Irish Pub located on 160 Church Street in historic Charleston. This is a favorite of the locals. Try to visit on Wednesday through Sunday nights so you can enjoy some live Irish folk music with your evening meal. I found coupons both on line and locally for meals here.
Of course there are many more things to do around the Charleston area. I have only named a few of my favorites. For more information on family vacations or fun summer activities visit www.homemakerstip.com.
