Cobblestone streets, pastel houses and horse-drawn carriages are among the best things that you can only find in Charleston, South Carolina. So, how can you say no to spare a few days in this beautiful city? Not to mention that you will be left speechless as soon as you visit Charleston’s French Quarter and Battery districts. In addition to the most popular tourist spots that the city is proud of, there are actually numerous non-touristy things you can do in the city and near the city. If you are interested in finding out, keep reading to learn more about the best non-touristy things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.
1. Check out the haunted side of Charleston (from USD 39.0)
Will you say yes to a ghost and graveyard tour? Do not be afraid and you definitely should say yes. It is time for a spooky night in haunted Charleston. You can expect to visit some of the city’s most eerie sites for as long as 90 minutes. As you walk through dark corridors, you may get goosebumps from the wind. Your local guide will also tell you some stories about graveyard huntings, botched burials and voodoo practice. The most interesting spot you will visit is perhaps Charleston’s oldest cemetery. You will be granted after-hour access for this one. If you do not think you can participate in this tour alone, bring someone with you. Nevertheless, this tour is a must pick.
Charleston Historic District Ghost and Graveyard Night Tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
2. Try stand-up paddleboarding (from USD 45.0)
Can you paddle board? Do you want to try paddle boarding? This will be an exciting and unforgettable experience in Charleston if you book this tour that features a two-hour stand-up paddleboarding session. For two hours, you are going to learn how to steer your board and paddle alongside a small group. Do not worry as there will be an experienced instructor that will be with you all the way. In addition to the paddle boarding, you will also get to see several historic sights along the waterfront, such as Ravenel Bridge’s diamond-shaped towers and island forts that witnessed the battles that took place during the Civil War.
Charleston Harbor Stand up Paddleboard Tour
Duration: 2 hours
3. Stroll along the Gateway Walk
Allow yourself to have a memorable experience in another world as you make your way to Gateway Walk, a serene place where you can find pretty graveyards and gardens in the historic part of Charleston. Did you ever read a book titled The Secret Garden? It is as if you were stepping into a secret garden, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, a place that only you and a few people know. The blooming flowers surrounding the gravestones make Gateway Walk even prettier. You will want to spend hours just to relax and reconnect with nature.
Gateway Walk
Address: Charleston, SC 29401, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours
Price: free
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4. Go picnicking at Allan Park
It is possible to have a picnic during a vacation in Charleston. All you have to do is stop by Allan Park, a picturesque park that features thousands of lush trees, plants and colorful flowers as well as benches and a fountain right in the center of the park. This park is so popular that it sometimes is used to host music concerts, shows and gatherings. Find your perfect shady spot under the tree and enjoy a great picnic. Other than picnicking, you may also want to have a jog around the park.
Allan Park
Address: 365 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29403, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours
Price: free
5. Head to Folly Beach
Situated just south of Charleston, Folly Beach is actually the name of a city on Folly Island. Be captivated by the beauty of the city that is known for Folly Beach Pier that stretches for approximately 1,000 feet (305 meters) into the ocean. Enjoy the gorgeous beaches and let yourself do as many outdoor activities as possible, including surfing, kayaking and fishing. Not far from the beach, you will reach the downtown area that features a myriad of local stores and restaurants.
Folly Beach
Address: Arctic Ave., Folly Beach, SC 29439
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Price: free
6. Check out the Bridge to Nowhere
Charleston is a city of many things, including bridges. There are a lot of bridges that you can find as you explore the city. But, one unique bridge that you should not miss checking out is called the Bridge of Nowhere. The bridge literally leads to nowhere. If you want to spend some quiet and peaceful time alone or with your travel buddies, it is worth it coming to this flat bridge. It is well of the beaten track and is car free. The best time to visit is when the sun is about to go down. Enjoy a private spectacular sunset as you indulge in a leisurely stroll or a run.
Bridge to Nowhere
Address: 1593 Oceanic St, Charleston, SC 29405, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours
Price: free
7. Explore Botany Bay Plantation
Set on Edisto Island, Botany Bay Plantation is a must-visit attraction for everyone visiting Charleston or South Carolina. Shells galore, a collection of trees and crystal clear water, is among the things you get to enjoy. This nature preserve is an excellent choice if you are interested in enjoying a quiet walk or a bike ride in the evening.
Botany Bay Plantation
Address: 1066 Botany Bay Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438, USA
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (closed on Tue)
Price: free
No city quite like Charleston in South Carolina
After reading through all the non-touristy things you can do in Charleston, there is no way you are going to pass on this city when you are traveling to South Carolina, right? Your next vacation should be Charleston. What are you waiting for? Start making an itinerary, book an accommodation and think about the way to get to the city. There is no city quite like Charleston in South Carolina if you desire to have a delightful vacation.
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