Charleston Adventure: 5 Days of Southern Charm Itinerary

Begin your second day with a visit to Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. This historic plantation is famous for its beautiful gardens and rich history. Take a guided tour to learn about the plantation's past and enjoy a peaceful stroll through its scenic grounds.

After exploring Magnolia Plantation, head over to Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in the afternoon. This museum is home to several historic naval ships including the USS Yorktown. It's an excellent place to learn about maritime history and see impressive military vessels up close. For lunch, stop by Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar, which offers delicious seafood dishes with waterfront views.

In the evening, take part in Charleston: Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise. Enjoy a gourmet meal while cruising along Charleston Harbor as you take in stunning views of the city skyline and historic landmarks like Fort Sumter. It's a perfect way to relax after a day full of exploration.

Start your third day by visiting Aiken-Rhett House, one of Charleston's most well-preserved antebellum homes. The house offers an intriguing look into 19th-century life in Charleston through its original furnishings and slave quarters.

In the afternoon, cross over to Mount Pleasant via Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge (Cooper River Bridge) for breathtaking views of Charleston Harbor. Once there, visit Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens where you can explore beautiful gardens and learn about plantation life through interactive exhibits.

Return to downtown Charleston for an evening walking tour: Charleston: Citadel History Professor Guided Walking Tour. This tour will provide fascinating insights into Charleston's rich history from an expert guide. Finish your day with dinner at Poogan's Porch, known for its traditional Lowcountry cuisine served in a charming Victorian townhouse.

Begin your fourth day with a visit to Gibbes Museum of Art. This museum showcases an impressive collection of American art, with a particular focus on works from the Charleston Renaissance. Wander through the galleries and appreciate the artistic heritage of the region. Next, head to Charleston Waterfront Park. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Cooper River and is a perfect spot for a leisurely morning stroll. Don’t forget to take a photo by the iconic Pineapple Fountain. For breakfast, stop by Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, famous for its delicious Southern-style biscuits.

In the afternoon, delve into Charleston's rich history with a visit to Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon. This historic building played a significant role in American history and offers fascinating exhibits about Charleston's colonial past. Afterward, explore St. Michael's Church, one of the oldest churches in Charleston. The church’s stunning architecture and historical significance make it a must-see. For lunch, enjoy some local flavors at Hominy Grill, known for its classic Southern dishes.

As evening approaches, embark on Charleston: Historic City Tour & Magnolia Plantation Combo. This tour combines a guided city tour with an exploration of Magnolia Plantation, offering insights into both urban and plantation life in Charleston. End your day with dinner at Hall's Chophouse, renowned for its excellent steaks and warm hospitality.

Fort Sumter National Monument is your first stop on this final day. Take the ferry from Liberty Square to this historic site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. The visitor center provides detailed exhibits about Fort Sumter’s history. After returning from Fort Sumter, visit Circular Congregational Church, one of Charleston’s oldest congregations. The churchyard is filled with ancient gravestones that tell stories of Charleston’s past. For breakfast, enjoy some fresh pastries at Brown's Court Bakery.

Middleton Place awaits you in the afternoon. This National Historic Landmark is home to America’s oldest landscaped gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and enjoy wandering through its beautiful grounds. Next, head back downtown to visit Charleston Museum, America’s first museum. Its extensive collections cover everything from natural history to decorative arts. For lunch, dine at Slightly North of Broad (SNOB), offering innovative Southern cuisine in an elegant setting.

Charleston: Sunset Harbor Cruise will be your final activity in Charleston. Relax on board as you sail along Charleston Harbor while enjoying breathtaking views as the sun sets over the city skyline. Conclude your trip with dinner at The Ordinary, celebrated for its seafood dishes served in a stylish setting.