Visiting Charleston For The First Time: Five Must-Dos

Last Updated: September 5, 2025 by Michael Kahn. Published: July 24, 2025.

Charleston is one of the most wonderful spots to visit when you’re visiting South Carolina. If it’s for the first time, then you’re going to want to be prepared to see and do it all. There are lots of activities to do, places to see and culture to explore, so knowing what to do first is definitely worthwhile.

With that being said, here are some of the five must-dos when visiting Charleston for the first time.

1. Plantation Tours

The rich history of Charleston involves that of it’s many plantations. From the iconic Avenue of Oaks to the Boone Hall Plantation, these tours are a great look into what existed when these plantations were in operation.

There’s also the Magnolia Plantation or Middleton Place for unique experiences as a tourist. It’s something that will forever remain a part of the history books and is important for future generations to learn all about the city’s past.

2. Charleston City Market

For a historical spot within the city to explore, the Charleston City Market is definitely one to take a look at.

This open-air market stretches between the East Bay and Meeting Streets. It’s a glimpse in the vibrant culture that makes up Charleston and you’ll find everything here to spend your money on. From handcrafted goods to the notable Sweetgrass baskets, there’s a lot of choice and stalls to explore.

3. Harbour Tour

The harbor tour is a must for anyone looking to see the city from a different perspective. Much like The Pinch Hotel’s Charleston travel guide, the harbor tour is an activity that helps you get the best of your visit because you can enjoy the views form the water.

There are also a number of other tours you can do, all of which are on-land if you prefer not to be on the water.

4. Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row is certainly one to get a few snaps for the memory books. A picturesque street that’s lined with colorful historic houses. It’s a beautiful sight and one that although seems pretty basic in it’s appearance when it’s described, there’s nothing quite like seeing in-person.

These buildings have a lot of history to them and are a great way to capture their history in a bright and vibrant way. There’s no way you’re going to miss them once you stumble upon them.

5. Fort Sumter

For historical spots, For Sumter is where the Civil War began and so it has a lot of significance and meaning to it. It can also be a great way to pay your respects and to stand on the same land that those focus stood on back in 1861.

Along with maritime museum available, Fort Sumter proves to be a popular spot for tourists to visit and to stand on a bit of history.

If you’re visiting Charleston for the first time, then these five must-dos are a great way to plan for the visit and to get the most out of the city whilst you’re there.