Charleston is America's most beautifully preserved architectural and historic
treasure, with a rich, 300-year history just waiting to be discovered. Once
one of the preeminent cities in the British colonies, Charleston stands today
as a living monument to the founding and evolution of our nation. Hundreds of
significant and lovingly preserved structures from the colonial and
antebellum periods grace the city's narrow streets. Formal gardens magnify
the beauty of stately, centuries-old homes. Church bells toll the hour as
history unfolds around each and every corner. Merchant ships ply the once
embattled waters of Charleston Harbor, much as they have since the 1700's.
In no other American city are the past and present more intertwined! This
unique appeal led the readers of Conde ' Nast Traveler to name Charleston as
one of the "Top Twenty" destinations in the world.
The entire Charleston area is a never-ending feast for the senses, with
history serving as the main course. Visit Charles Towne Landing, where the
original settlement was founded in 1670. Explore the Charleston Museum, our
nation's first museum; or Patriots Point, one of the world's largest naval
and maritime museums and home of WW II's "Fighting Lady," the aircraft carrier
Yorktown. Drive to Fort Moultrie, scene of the first decisive American victory
of the Revolution, and a mainstay of shore defense until 1947. Take a scenic
boat tour to Fort Sumter, the man-made island fortress where the US Civil War
began. World-famous plantations and gardens offer visitors a fascinating
glimpse into life during the antebellum era. Take the time to discover the
small towns and rural communities along the newly-created Heritage Corridor,
which runs through Charleston and Dorchester counties. The Heritage Corridor
makes it easy for visitors to enjoy the abundant historic, cultural, and
recreational opportunities available in Summerville, St. George, Edisto,
McClellanville and a host of other communities.
The Charleston area's lush sea islands and sun-drenched beaches offer as much
recreation or relaxation as your heart desires. Charleston's relationship with
the game of golf dates back to 1786, with the founding of America's first golf
course and golf club. More recently, the area played host to the 1991 Ryder
Cup and will host the 1997 World Cup of Golf at Kiawah Island's heralded
Ocean Course. Charter fishing, sailing, kayaking and other water sports are
readily available.
Shopping in the Charleston area is second to none. Marvel at native
sweetgrass baskets and handmade crafts, or browse through inviting specialty
shops, art galleries and antique shops. When it comes to dining you'll have
an almost unlimited choice, including some of the most celebrated restaurants
in the southeast. If festivals strike your fancy, you've come to the right
place! Spoleto Festival USA, Festival of Houses & Gardens, Fall Candlelight
Tours, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, Christmas in Charleston and the
World Grits Festival are just a few of the varied special events to be
enjoyed.