Charleston, South Carolina is a beautiful and historic city with plenty to offer visitors. But if you’re looking to get off the beaten path, there are many hidden gems to be found. Here are eight places to visit in Charleston in July 2024:
July is a great time to visit Charleston. The weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot. There are also many events and activities happening throughout the city, including the Spoleto Festival USA, a world-renowned performing arts festival. It is also the time to take part in the unique opportunity to witness the nesting sea turtles on the nearby beaches.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll love exploring Charleston’s many historic sites. The city is home to some of the oldest buildings in the United States, including the Old City Market and the Battery. You can also visit the Charleston Museum, which has exhibits on the city’s history, culture, and art.
Charleston is also known for arts and culture. The city is home to many art galleries, museums, and theaters. You can also enjoy live music at one of the city’s many music venues or take a guided tour of the Gibbes Museum of Art.
Of course, no trip to Charleston would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The city is known for its seafood, so be sure to try some of the fresh shrimp, oysters, and crab. You can also enjoy the city’s many restaurants serving traditional Southern food.
Gibbes Museum of Art
The Gibbes Museum of Art is a must-see for any art lover visiting Charleston. The museum houses a collection of over 10,000 works of American art, from the colonial era to the present day. Highlights of the collection include works by John Singleton Copley, Gilbert Stuart, and Winslow Homer.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Gibbes Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions often feature the work of contemporary artists from around the world.
The Gibbes Museum of Art is located in the heart of downtown Charleston, just a short walk from many of the city’s other attractions. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.
Old City Market
The Old City Market is a historic public market located in the heart of Charleston’s historic district. The market has been in operation since 1791 and is one of the oldest public markets in the United States.
The Old City Market is home to over 300 vendors selling a variety of goods, including fresh produce, seafood, crafts, and souvenirs. You can also find a number of restaurants and cafes at the market.
The Old City Market is a great place to experience the local culture and do some shopping. The market is open every day of the week from 9 am to 6 pm.
Battery
The Battery is a historic promenade and seawall located along the southern tip of Charleston’s peninsula. The Battery offers stunning views of the harbor and the city skyline.
The Battery is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can take a stroll along the promenade, relax on one of the benches, or enjoy a picnic. You can also visit the Battery’s many historic mansions and gardens.
Drayton Hall
Drayton Hall is a historic plantation home located on the banks of the Ashley River. The plantation was built in 1738 and is one of the best-preserved examples of colonial architecture in the United States.
Drayton Hall is open to the public for tours. You can take a guided tour of the house and grounds, or you can explore the plantation at your own pace. Drayton Hall also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and workshops.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic plantation and gardens located on the Ashley River. The plantation was founded in 1676 and is one of the oldest plantations in the United States.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is open to the public for tours. You can take a guided tour of the house and gardens, or you can explore the plantation at your own pace. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and workshops.
Middleton Place
Middleton Place is a historic plantation and gardens located on the Ashley River. The plantation was founded in 1741 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Charleston.
Middleton Place is open to the public for tours. You can take a guided tour of the house and gardens, or you can explore the plantation at your own pace. Middleton Place also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and workshops.
Cycling Around the City
Another great way to explore Charleston is by bike. The city has a number of bike-friendly trails and paths, making it easy to get around on two wheels.
If you don’t have your own bike, there are several bike rental shops in the city. You can also take a guided bike tour of Charleston, which is a great way to see the city’s highlights.
Kayaking in the Harbor
Kayaking is a great way to explore Charleston’s harbor. There are several kayak rental shops in the city, and you can also take a guided kayak tour.
Kayaking is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You can paddle past historic homes and churches, and you can even kayak out to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
Experience the Culture
Charleston is a city with a rich culture and history. There are many ways to experience the local culture, including:
- Visiting the city’s many museums and historical sites
- Attending a performance at one of the city’s many theaters
- Taking a guided tour of the city
- Shopping for local crafts and souvenirs
- Dining at one of the city’s many restaurants
Best Months to Visit
Charleston is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons, which are April-May and September-October. During these months, the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
July is a great time to visit Charleston if you’re looking for a warm and sunny vacation. However, it’s important to note that July is also the hottest month of the year in Charleston. If you’re not used to hot weather, you may want to consider visiting during a different time of year.
Getting Around
Charleston is a very walkable city. Many of the city’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other.
If you’re not up for walking, there are several other ways to get around Charleston, including:
- Taking the city’s free shuttle bus
- Riding a bike
- Taking a taxi
- Renting a car
Local Food
Charleston is a foodie’s paradise. The city is home to a number of world-renowned restaurants, as well as many hidden gems.
Some of the must-try dishes in Charleston include:
- She-crab soup
- Oysters
- Shrimp and grits
- Lowcountry boil
- Peach cobbler
Accommodations
There are many great places to stay in Charleston. Here are a few of our top picks:
- The Vendue
- The Restoration
- The Dewberry
- The Francis Marion Hotel
- The Charleston Place
No matter what your budget or preferences, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in Charleston.
Conclusion
Charleston is a beautiful and historic city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, art, or food, you’re sure to find it in Charleston. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
