Explore Charleston

Aerial view of Charleston, South Carolina.

You have a fine summer’s day to spend in Charleston, South Carolina, taking in Civil War history—but you’ve already been to Fort Sumter. What to do? Consider the following ambitious itinerary for an efficient look at other spots the city has to offer.

Explore Charleston

Guns at Fort Moultrie

9:00 a.m. | Fort Moultrie

1214 Middle Street

Located on Sullivan’s Island, the historic fort offers an illuminating viewshed of Charleston Harbor and the city. You’ll learn about the structure’s Revolutionary War origins and significance and the vital role Moultrie played during the Civil War. If time permits, you might consider a self-guided tour of nearby Battery Jasper, another of the city’s historic defenses.

Explore Charleston

Grave marker at Magnolia Cemetery.

11:00 a.m. | Magnolia Cemetery

70 Cunnington Avenue

Grab a map at the main office and walk—or drive—through the impressive grounds of the historic garden cemetery, which includes the gravesites of a variety of prominent South Carolinians and Confederates, including crew members of the submarine H.L. Hunley and six generals. Note that while the cemetery is open all week, the office operates from Monday to Friday only.

Richard W. Hatcher III

Entrance to The Griffon.

1:00 p.m. | The Griffon

18 Vendue Range

While the city’s dining options abound, The Griffon is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Located in a pre-Civil War building, it offers a family friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices. Its authentic fish and chips are widely considered the best in the city.

Explore Charleston

Edmondston-Alston House

2:00 p.m. | Edmondston-Alston House

21 East Battery

Built in the 1820s and adorned largely with original furniture and decorative arts, this house offers visitors a look at the history of its free and enslaved residents and workers—as well as a stunning view of nearby Charleston Harbor. Open Wednesday through Saturday; its guided tours run every 30 minutes.

Richard W. Hatcher III

The Museum at Market Hall

3:00 p.m. | The Museum at Market Hall

188 Meeting Street

Located on the upper floor of historic Market Hall and overseen by the United Daughters of the Confederacy, the museum includes a variety of Confederate military memorabilia, including uniforms, flags, swords, guns, and an array of personal items. Open Thursday through Sunday.

Brian Stansberry/Wikimedia Commons

Monument at Secessionville Battlefield.

4:30 p.m. | Secessionville Battlefield

1231 Fort Lamar Road

On James Island, 30 minutes south of the city, sits the Secessionville Battlefield, where in June 1862 Confederate forces turned back a Union attempt to seize Charleston by land. Now part of the Fort Lamar Heritage Preserve, the grounds include the remains of Fort Lamar, which anchored the Confederate defenses at the battle, as well as a number of preserved trenches. Brochures are available on-site for a self-guided walking tour.

Explore Charleston

Fleet Landing

6:30 p.m. | Fleet Landing

186 Concord Street

Back in the city, have dinner at one of Charleston’s few waterfront eateries. Fleet Landing opened in 2004 in a building and pier built in 1942 by the U.S. Navy for offloading soldiers and supplies during World War II. Enjoy the Lowcountry cuisine and stunning views.

Explore Charleston

Flowers and gazebo at White Point Garden.

7:30 p.m. | White Point Garden

2 Murray Boulevard

This 5.7-acre public park located at Charleston’s southern tip is the perfect place to unwind from your busy day. Enjoy a stroll through the park or along the nearby Battery, the city’s defensive seawall and promenade, while taking in the majestic view of the harbor and distant Fort Sumter—and hopefully a breathtaking summer’s evening sunset.