Charleston Travel Information
Charleston, South Carolina boasts a lively and extensive history.
Founded in the late 1600s, Charleston is one of the oldest cities in
America. Situated on a peninsula between the Ashley and Cooper
rivers, Charleston’s port has played a significant role in the city’s
development. Charleston’s importance during the Revolutionary and
Civil Wars can’t be unstated. Although the number of historic
structures found here is massive and its history is undeniable-
there’s more to Charleston than it’s past. In fact, Charleston may be
best described as preservation meets cosmopolitan. The city has
successfully positioned itself as a classy, progressive, and somewhat
hip place to visit, or even settle down. Visitors will be pleased to
discover that downtown Charleston offers a healthy mix of history,
romance, and some seriously exceptional shopping. Narrow streets are
lined with old brick row buildings that house high-end specialty
shops, thousands of antiques, upscale dining, and historic
B&Bs. For those who enjoy walking- this is the city for you.
Park your car at your B&B when you arrive, and you won’t need it again
until you leave. Your first stop may be at the tip of the peninsula-
a location named the Battery. Situated along the water you’ll
discover a lovely park, as well as stately southern mansions. Nearby
is “Rainbow Row”- named for the colorful exteriors of the homes found
here. This is an area best enjoyed early in the morning, when traffic
is minimal. Another joy is Charleston’s Waterfront Park. This
eight acre park offers spacious lawns, well maintained jogging paths,
picnic tables, and even an opportunity to get wet and cool off under
the grand fountain (kids love this place.) An absolute must-do
is Charleston’s famous City Market. Four buildings house a variety of
merchandise. Sweetgrass baskets are a highly sought after local
specialty. This is a wonderful stop for picking up a small
remembrance (or two) of Charleston. If you want to learn more
about Charleston’s past, consider a horse and buggy tour, or a visit
to The Charleston Museum. Should you visit Charleston during spring,
you may catch the celebrated Spoletto Festival USA. This is a
comprehensive arts festival that offers music, dancing, and an
unbelievable display of all types of artwork. Charleston is
located in the southeastern part of the state, off US Highway 17, or
Interstate 26.
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