The Charleston Museum
M-Sa 9am – 5pm; Su 1-5pm. America’s first museum showcases cultural and natural history of South Carolina’s coastal region. Enjoy the rich variety of exhibited objects ranging from ancient fossils and an enormous whale skeleton to Civil War artifacts and historic Charleston silver. Explore Kidstory, the new hands-on children’s exhibit!$10 adults/$5 children 3-12/under 3 are free.

Phone:  843-722-2996

 

Drayton Hall: Built in 1738, it is the oldest and finest colonial plantation house in Charleston. It is the only plantation that survived the Civil War intact. It is noted for its hand-carved woodwork and plasterwork. 843-766-0188. 3380 Ashley River Road   Charleston, SC 29414   Phone: 843-769-2600

 

Presents live presentations that cannot be found on any other plantations in the area and are part of what helps make Boone Hall unique.  However, these shows are seasonal...so check in advance for performance dates and times.

This show gives visitors the opportunity to experience through song, dance, and language...life lessons of the Gullah Culture adapted by African slaves. Ms. Cooper gives an outstanding performance that has proven to be one of the most popular shows in the Lowcountry area. Performances take place at our Gullah Theater located at the end of Slave Street.      Now Appearing Daily at:  11:30am - 1:30pm - 3:30pm

House Tours: A 30 minute tour which begins on the front porch and continues through the main floor of the elegant Plantation Home that was built in 1936. This tour is given by a well informed guide in historical dress. This tour will introduce you to the history of Boone Hall Plantation and its evolution through several owners since 1681.
Slave Street and History Tour: This tour begins at the tip of Slave Street located out in the front of the Plantation Home and is a historical look at the living quarters, historic relics, and lifestyle of the slaves that lived here at Boone Hall.
Garden Tour: This tour informs you about the many various plants, flowers, and trees that are currently growing in the beautiful gardens on the front lawn. One of the main features of our garden are antique roses that are over 100 years old.

ADMISSION RATES
Adults ....................$17.50
Children ..................$7.50
Children 5 and under are Free
Senior Citizens 65+/Military/AAA Members $15.00

Aiken-Rhett House
Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 2-5pm.

The expansive Aiken-Rhett House (c. 1818) stands as the city’s most intact urban villa. A conservation approach has been adopted for this important site, which has survived virtually unaltered since 1858. Many objects can still be found in the rooms for which they were purchased.

Phone: 843-723-1159

Old Slave Mart Museum
Recounting the story of Charleston's role in this inter-state slave trade by focusing on the history of this particular building and site and the slave sales that occurred here. The Old Slave Mart Museum is currently undergoing exhibit design and installation.
For more information, please visit our website.
6 Chalmers St.
Charleston , SC 29401
Phone: 843-958-6467

Cabbage Row
The section of Church St. used as the inspiration for "Catfish Row" in the Dubose Heyward story, "Porgy." This story was the basis for Gershwin's opera "Porgy and Bess," which is a fictionalized glimpse of black life during the 1920's. The character "Porgy" was based on an actual Charlestonian, Samuel Smalls.
Church St.
Charleston , SC 29401
Phone: 800-868-8118

Adults (12-61)$17.00 Seniors (62+)$16.00 Child (2-11)$10.00 Toddler (0-1)FREE
Fall/Winter Hours
August 16-March 31
9am-5pm, Monday-Saturday
12pm-5pm, Sunday
Last ticket sold 4pm
Summer Hours
April 1 - August 15
9am-6pm, Monday-Saturday
12pm-6pm, Sunday
Last ticket sold 5pm
Closed Thanksgiving Day, Dec 25, and half day Dec 24 (open 9am-1pm).
The new aquarium located on Charleston's harbor, depicts the aquatic habitats of the state from rushing mountain streams through rivers, lakes and the salt marsh, to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, encounters with river otters, snakes, turtles, birds, fish and sharks delight guests as they explore 60 living exhibits. (843) 720-1990.
http://www.scaquarium.org/

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
Walk on the very spot where English Colonists in 1670 established the first permanent European settlement in the Carolinas.
Among the park's unique features is the Animal Forest, a zoo that's home to species the settlers would have encountered. There's also the Adventure, a life-size reproduction of a 17th century trading vessel. Click here to view photos of the restoration process underway.
In addition to learning about maritime trade, tour the actual landing site and explore how Charles Towne established itself as a permanent community and eventually became one of the wealthiest colonies in America!
Observe archaeologists in season as they uncover the hidden history of the site including American Indian activity dating back thousands of years. Attend regularly scheduled programs exploring the site's agricultural, African-American and women's histories, including connections to the Caribbean.
Picnic Shelters Facility
The Charles Towne Landing Picnic Area (Marsh View Shelter) is perfect for group picnics, company outings, and family reunions. The Marsh View Shelter has picnic tables that seat up to 250, of which, 75 are sheltered. The area also includes grills, water fountains, and electrical outlets. The Picnic Area and Marsh View Shelter is free with admission and available on a first-come/first-serve basis.
The Picnic area is available from 9:00 am until park closing. The Marsh View Shelter is in a remote location near the entrance to the Animal Forest and includes the area around the shelter making it suitable for larger gatherings.
http://www.charlestowne.org/

 

Marion Square
            The Twentieth Annual Charleston Farmers Market will operate every Saturday from 8:00am until 2:00 pm, from April 12 – December 21, 2008. A special Holiday Magic Market in Historic Charleston will operate during the month of December.

            The Charleston Farmers Market is available each Saturday morning in the beautiful Marion Square, between King and Meeting Streets at the edge of Calhoun Street. The park at Marion Square has long been the center of festive activities, and is the perfect tranquil setting for the Farmers Market. Nestled beneath beautiful trees with plenty of room for families to gather and children to play, the Farmers Market comes to life each Saturday morning and offers an abundance of the freshest local produce, plants, herbs and cut flowers. While strolling the Charleston Farmers Market, a delicious breakfast, brunch or lunches are available while listening to a variety of live entertainment.
            The Farmers Market also offers an amazing assortment of juried arts and crafts, providing the best selection and most talented local artisans. The celebrated Charleston Farmers Market is produced by the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs and is dedicated to the support and advocacy of Lowcountry Farmers and Growers.
CHARLESTON FARMERS MARKET WEEKLY FEATURES INCLUDE:
The Lowcountry’s Finest Local Produce * Artisan’s Alley * Ask a Master Gardener from the Clemson Extension Service * FacePainting * Pony Rides for Children * Jump Castles * Vendor Demonstrations
180 Meeting St.
Suite 200
Charleston, SC 29401
Phone (843) 724-7309
farmersmarket@ci.charleston.sc.us

Gibbes Museum of Art
Located in Charleston’s Historic District at 135 Meeting Street (2 blocks south of the Market between Cumberland and Queen Streets). See a Map.
The Gibbes Museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and
1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Closed Mondays and national holidays.
Admission to the Gibbes Museum is:
$9 for Adults,
$7 for Seniors, Students and Military
$5 for Children ages 6 – 12.
Admission is free for members and children under 6.
Group Tours and School Tours can be arranged by calling 843-722-2706 ext 23 or email tours@gibbesmuseum.org More on Groups.
Art Discovery Walking Tours are held every Saturday at 10:30 ($20). View artistic treasures at the Gibbes Museum and then walk in the footsteps of the artists who created them. This 90-minute tour highlights the many historic sites that have inspired artists for centuries. Reservations should be made through The Original Charleston Walks at http://www.charlestonwalks.com  or call 800-729-3420.
Educational Programs
Check out our "Learn" section for information on Kids and Families and Adult/Public Programs
The Gibbes Museum of Art is wheelchair accessibleand wheelchairs are available.
Although Parking is not available at the Gibbes Museum, there is on-street parking throughout downtown as well as two parking garages in close proximity. There is a parking deck on Cumberland Street and another on Queen Street. Both garages are about a block from the Gibbes Museum.
http://www.gibbesmuseum.org/

 

HOLIDAY FARMERS MARKET
December 6-21, 2008 ~ Marion Square
Saturdays: 8am-4pm; Sundays 10am-4pm
Admission: Free
Under the brightly colored tents at Marion Square, you’ll find everything you need to deck the holidays and fill the pantry with baked delights: natural wreaths, fresh greenery, special breads, cookies and fresh vegetables, as well as the best assortment of art, crafts and holiday gift items to complete your shopping lists. For more information, please call (843) 724-7305.

22nd ANNUAL CITY OF CHARLESTON TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Saturday, December 6, 2008: 4:30-6pm ~ Marion Square
Admission: Free
Join Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. and Santa Claus in lighting the magnificent 60-foot Tree of Lights, the official City of Charleston Christmas Tree in Marion Square. For more information, please call (843) 724-7305.

29th ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE OF BOATS
Saturday, December 6, 2008: 5-8pm
Parade begins along Mt. Pleasant at 5pm; Viewing from the peninsula begins at 6:30pm; Fireworks begin at approximately 6:45pm
Admission: Free
Get on board with a Lowcountry holiday tradition as this display of lighted and festive boats proceeds through the Charleston Harbor, culminating in a brilliant fireworks display. View the procession along Charleston’s waterfront or decorate your own boat and join the parade. For more information, please call (843) 724-7305.

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT AND VISITS WITH SANTA
December 7-24 ~ Marion Square
Mondays-Fridays: 10am-6pm; Saturdays and Sundays: 10am-4pm
Admission: Free
Children’s choirs, church choirs, gospel, classical, folk, storytelling and other entertainment dazzle audiences at Marion Square. Bring your Christmas wish lists to the North Pole Mailbox and visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus and their Elf assistants in the magically decorated park. For more information, please call (843) 724-7305.

28TH ANNUAL CHARLESTON CHRISTMAS PARADE
Sunday, December 7, 2008: 2-5pm ~ Downtown Charleston
Admission: Free
This holiday tradition is better than ever as bands, floats, marchers and performers parade through downtown Charleston. The parade begins at the intersection of Calhoun and Meeting Streets, proceeds down King Street to Broad Street to Lockwood Blvd. Sponsored by the Tri-County Fire Chiefs Association. For more information, please call (843) 720-1981.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, CHARLESTON!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008: 4-10:30pm
Marion Square and surrounding locations
Admission: Free
This community celebration offers a non-alcoholic and family-oriented alternative program to celebrate the New Year in Charleston. This city wide, admission-free program has something wonderful for everyone: comedy, African dancing, many forms of music including classical, gospel and jazz, children’s activities and so much more. Food vendors will be on hand to tempt your appetite and add to the celebration. Presented by the City of Charleston with additional financial support from the County of Charleston. For more information, please call (843) 724-7305.

PARKING FOR THE EVENTS
Avoid parking hassles and traffic, Let CARTA take you to the events instead! For more information about all of CARTA's routes, including the DASH trolley service that stops at the Visitor's Center at least every 20 minutes and features convenient parking, visit www.RideCARTA.com or call (843) 724-7420. Passes are available online at www.ridecarta.com, at the Visitor's Center on John Street or on any CARTA bus or trolley.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum located in Charleston Harbor.
Open Daily except Christmas Day
9 am - 6:30 pm
Day Visits
Toll free: 866.831.1720
Email: groupreservations@patriotspoint.org
Overnight Camping
Toll free: 800.248.3508
Email: camping@patriotspoint.org
http://www.patriotspoint.org/visitor/

City Public Market
N Market St and Church St, Charleston, SC 29401 · 843-973-7236
No trip to Charleston is complete without browsing the many booths of this open-air market. For sale is everything from local art, jewelry, clothing, and furnishings to those wonderful sweetgrass baskets that Charleston is known for. You can even watch Gullah women hand-make these top-quality treasures.
Hours:
Daily 6am – 11:30 pm

Fort Sumter
Sullivan's Island, SC 29482 · 843-881-7337
SULLIVAN'S ISLAND.
Despite the fact that construction on Fort Sumter was incomplete, Major Robert Anderson moved his troops here from Fort Moultrie, prepared to defend the site from the Confederate army. Sumter was eventually taken by the Confederates anyway and became a Southern stronghold for most of the Civil War, even in the wake of Union Volleys. The fort is accessible only by water – Spirit Line Cruises runs informative trips back and forth, year round. Nearby Fort Moultrie is also worth a visit. The Visitor Education Center, at Liberty Square, has extensive historical information on both forts.
Hours:
Depart from Liberty Square in downtownCharleston  Daily 9:30am, Noon, 2:30pm 
Depart from Patriots Point Maritime Museum in Mt Pleasant  Daily 10:45am, 1:30pm, 4pm 
Hours May Vary Seasonally 
Admission:
Adult $15;
Senior $13.50;
Child (6-11) $9
Website:
Click here to visit the Fort Sumter National Monument website »

Spoleto
Beginning on Memorial Day weekend and lasting a little over two weeks, Spoleto is undeniably one of the best arts festivals in the country. The visual arts are represented in several special exhibits and an arts and crafts fair, and performance venues are scattered across the city. You can enjoy world-class performances in classical music, ballet, opera, and jazz, courtesy of both national and international performers. If you've never experienced Spoleto, be sure to schedule your next trip to Charleston during its run. The Spoleto Box Office is open from mid-April through the last day of the festival, and is located at the Gaillard Municipal Auditorium, 77 Calhoun Street.
Admission:
Event tickets vary $10-100;
Opening Night Gala $300;
Auction $75, Soiree $75
Click here to visit the Spoleto Festival USA website »

Middleton Place
4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414 · 843-556-6020
This 18th-century plantation is listed as a National Historic Landmark and boasts one of the country's oldest formal gardens. Most of the original structures were burned during Sherman's raid, but the 1755 red-brick guest wing still remains, as does a sugarcane mill and working stable. Gift shop and restaurant on-site.
Hours: Daily 9am-5pm; Guided tours Mon 1:30pm-4:30pm, Tue-Sun 10am-4:30pm; Museum Shop Daily 10am-5pm 
General Admission Adult $25;
Senior $24;
Child (7-15) $5;
Child (0-6) Free
Guided Tour Adult $35;
Senior $34;
Child (7-15) $10;
Child (0-6) Free
All Day Package w/Carriage Ride Adult $45;
Senior $44;
Child (7-15) $30;
Child (0-6) Free
Guests to Middleton Place can experience 65 acres of formal landscaped Gardens and explore the working Plantation Stableyards where costumed interpreters demonstrate the skills once performed by slaves. As part of the general admission, visitors can participate in an African American Focus Tour, Nature Walk and Garden Overview Tour.
HOUSE MUSEUM guided tour     + $10
In addition to the Gardens and Stableyards, a guided tour of the Middleton Place House highlights family collections of paintings, furniture and silver, and describes the vital role of the Middleton family in American history.
CARRIAGE TOUR     +$15
Enjoy a 45-minute horse-drawn carriage ride through a bamboo forest and woodlands to an abandoned rice field where Carolina Gold once flourished. The Carriage Tour begins at the Visitor Center and ends at the House Museum.
SPEND THE DAY PACKAGE     Adult  $45    Child  $30
Spend the day exploring the many facets of Middleton Place including America’s oldest landscaped Gardens, working Plantation Stableyards, and living House Museum. Learn about history and nature on a Carriage Tour, rice cultivation with an African American Focus Tour, wildlife on a Nature Walk, and garden design and horticulture on a Garden Overview Tour. 
NOTE: Children 6 and under are admitted to Middleton Place free of charge.
Middleton Place is open daily at 9:00 a.m. 
http://www.middletonplace.org/default.asp?catID=9468

Boone Hall Plantation: BooneHallPlantation.org  Originally a cotton plantation of over 17,000 acres has one of the most majestic avenues of moss-draped live oaks in the South, planted in 1743 by Captain Thomas Boone. Original plantation buildings include nine 18th century slave cabins, built of brick made on the plantation, and the Gin House, used for processing cotton. Visitors receive a guided tour of the first floor of the plantation mansion. 1235 Long Point Road PO Box 1554 Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465 Phone: 843-884-4371

Charles Pinckney National Historic Site: The last protected remnant of Snee Farm, the country estate of Charles Pinckney (1754-1824). Pinckney was a statesman, revolutionary war officer, and a principal framer of the US Constitution. The site includes archeological discoveries, an 1820s tidewater cottage, and interpretations of African-American life and contributions during the colonial era. No admission fee; self-guided tours of the house and grounds. 1254 Long Point Rd. Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 Phone: 843-881-5516

Charleston Waterfront Park: Charleston Waterfront Park is the city's most recent example of what can be accomplished through carefully planned revitalization. Located on 1,280 feet of waterfront property along Concord Street in Charleston, this public park provides visitors the ideal setting to relax and experience the ever-changing beauty of the waterfront. A grassy public green, a magnificent pier, and numerous benches and picnic tables are available for your enjoyment. Open to the public from 6:00 am-midnight. HC-I Concord Street Charleston, SC

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site: Here over 300 years ago, colonists established the first permanent English settlement in the Carolinas. This protected historic site and nature preserve highlights archaeological investigation, living history, a reproduction 17th Century sailing vessel, natural habitat zoo, and beautiful Lowcountry vistas. Discover history as old as the state. Charleston starts here. 1500 Old Towne Rd. (Hwy. 171) Charleston, SC 29407 Phone: 843-852-4200

Cypress Gardens: For a true Lowcountry adventure, explore one of the area's most beloved attractions.... Cypress Gardens! Here you can stroll along four miles of walking trails that wind through the area's most beautiful gardens.... paddle a flat bottom boat through a real cypress swamp... relax in a unique and exciting butterfly house, which features a vast array of native butterflies and the plants they thrive on... or explore an Aquarium that offers an up close look at the amphibians, reptiles, and fish indigenous to the cypress swamp. For many visitors, Cypress Gardens proves to be their favorite experience because it allows one to interact with the area's beauty. 3030 Cypress Gardens Rd. Charleston, SC 29461 Phone: 553 - 0515

Drayton Hall: Draytonhall.org. Completed in 1742, the historic house stands majestically on a 125-acre site. It is the only plantation house remaining on the Ashley River that survived the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. This masterpiece of Georgian Palladian architecture is filled not with furniture, but with original 18th century craftsmanship. Admission includes guided tour of the house, self-guided nature walks, and an African-American Focus Program. 3380 Ashley River Rd. Charleston, SC 29414 Phone: (843) 769-2600

Middleton Place: Middletonplace.org. A carefully preserved 18th-century plantation and a National Historic Landmark, Middleton Place encompasses America's oldest landscaped gardens begun in 1741 by Henry Middleton. A restored stable yard has working displays on spinning, weaving, blacksmithing, and many more activities. Animals typical of 18th and 19th century plantations roam freely. The Gardens, House Museum, and Plantation Stable yards all interpret Middleton history. The Middleton Place Restaurant serves Lowcountry lunch and dinner daily. The Museum Shop sells items related to Middleton Place. Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Phone: 843-556-6020 or 800-782-3608

Magnolia Cemetery: The oldest cemetery in Charleston, founded in 1849 on the banks of the Cooper River, is inhabited by generations of southern leaders. The cemetery is on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors are welcome. 8:00 am-5:00 pm. Free. 70 Cunnington Ave. Charleston, SC Phone: 843-722-8638

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: Magnoliaplantation.com. This 17th century estate, 500-acres, acquired in 1676 by the Drayton family (whose heirs still own it) features the year-round bloom of America's oldest gardens (c.1680), boasting one of the largest collections of azaleas and camellias in the country. Highlights include the Pre-Revolutionary War Plantation House with museum-quality Early American antiques, Biblical Garden, antebellum cabin, Nature Train, Nature Boat, wildlife observation tower, gift shop, Gallery of Nature and Wildlife Artists, snack shop, canoe and bike rentals. Highlights include a petting zoo, waterfowl refuge, tropical garden, canoe and nature trails...Guided house tours are available.  Route 4 Highway 61 Charleston, SC 29414 Phone: 843-571-1266 or 800-367-3517

Edisto Island Serpentarium: Edistoserpentarium.com. Edisto Island Serpentarium is an educational and fun display of reptiles from the Southeastern U.S. and around the world. Whether you are terrified or enamored of these fascinating animals, this is the place to see! Interactive reptile shows given daily. We are a seasonal attraction. Please call or see our website for hours of operation and pricing information. 1374 Hwy 174 Charleston, SC 29438 Phone: 843-869-1171

Folly Beach County Park: Ccprc.com. Beach access park with 4,000 feet of ocean frontage. Dressing area, outdoor showers, restrooms, picnic areas, snack bar, and boardwalks. Lifeguard on duty seasonally. 1010 West Ashley Ave. Folly Beach, SC 29439 Phone: 843-588-2426 or 843-762-2172

Francis Marion National Forest: A 250-thousand-acre forest located in the Coastal Plains north of Charleston. The forest offers wide variety of recreation activities including picnicking & camping sites, boat ramps, fishing ponds, rifle ranges, hiking, horse & motorcycle trails. For more information write: District Ranger, Wambaw Ranger District, PO Box 106, McClellanville, SC 29458. Charleston, SC Phone: 843-336-3248 or 843-887-3257

Isle of Palms County Park: Ccprc.com. Conveniently located at the foot of the Isle of Palms Connector, the Isle of Palms County Park offers 350 parking spaces, a dunes boardwalk, showers, restrooms, lifeguards and vending. Pets allowed on leash. 1-14th Ave. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Phone: 843-886-DUNE or 843-762-2172

James Island County Park: Ccprc.com. A 643 acre park with a variety of recreational opportunities available including crabbing and fishing from floating docks along tidal creeks and lagoons; biking; lagoon boating; and picnicking. The Splash Zone water park is open seasonally. Park offers a 50-foot climbing wall. Snack bar and grille open year round. Gate admission is $1 per person. 871 Riverland Dr. Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-795-PARK or 843-762-2172

Cap'n Richards Ace Basin Nature Tours: Members.aol.com/hmartin178. Take a boat tour of Ace Basin, one of the largest undeveloped marine estuaries on the east coast. See diverse habitats including forested wetlands, fresh, brackish and saltwater tidal marshes, barrier islands and beaches all teeming with wildlife. Also enjoy a tour and picnic at one of South Carolinas famous plantations. Phone (843) 766-9664.

Wannamaker County Park: Ccprc.com. A new 1,015 acre park with two playgrounds, 20 foot play hill, picnic sites with grills, open meadows, paved trails, Cypress Hall and Park Center with snack bar, bicycle /pedal boat rentals. 888 University Blvd (Hwy 78) North Charleston, SC 29406 Phone: 843-572-PARK or 762-2172

Palmetto Carriage Tours: The oldest continually operating mule drawn carriage tour of historic Charleston. 40 N. Market St (843) 723-8145.

Architectural Walking Tours of Charleston: Provides two guided walking tours. The 18th century guided tour features the original "walled city". (843) 893-2327. (800) 931-7761

Charleston Strolls: This is the original walking tour. Experience Charleston's history from the colonial days through the Civil War to the present. Battery tour: 115 Meeting St. 10:00 and 130 Market St. Market Walk: 375 Meeting St. (843) 766-2080.

Fort Sumter: Flashpoint that started the Civil War. Tour boats depart regularly. Park rangers are on site. Located at the City Marina at 17 Lock Blvd. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum (843) 722-2628.

The Schooner Pride: Cruise aboard an 84-foot tall ship around Charleston's historic harbor. Guests may help in sailing or relax and enjoy the two-hour tour. 2044 Wappoo Hall Rd. (843) 795-1180.

Indigo Charleston: Dance club with nightly variety including dance, latin & top 40 nights. 5 Faber St., Tues-Sun. 6-2 am. 843-577-7383

Charleston Ballet Theatre: 477 King St. 843-723-7334.

Charleston Stage Company: Live theatre. Shows every Thurs., Fri., and Sat. at 8:00, Sundays at 3:00 pm. 133 Church St. box office 843-965-4032 or 800-454-9093

Charleston Symphony Orchestra: 14 George St. (843) 723-7528

Charlestowne Landing: The original site of the states first permanent settlement was founded here in 1670. Visitors may bike, walk, or take a tram tour to explore the same beautiful landscapes where the original settlers lived. A replica of a 17th century trading vessel is moored in Old Towne Creek for visitors to board. Visitors may participate in activities in the Settlers Life Area and trace the colony's history at the pavilion. Located at 1500 Old Town Rd. Open daily 9-6, June-Aug./ 9-5 rest of year.

Dock Street Theatre: First building in US designed solely for theatrical performances. Built around the original theater's ruins in the early 1800's. Frequent performances are staged in the theater and foyer. Church & Queen St Theatre free, various performance admissions. 843-723-5648.

Forever Charleston: A 24 Minute multimedia presentation about Charleston. Focuses on the history of Charleston and comprises more than 2400 images to reveal it's beauty and heritage. Charleston Visitor Center, 375 Meeting St843-724-7474.

The Francis Beidler Forest in Four Holes Swamp: National Audubon Society sanctuary, largest known stand of virgin cypress and tupelo in the world. 843-462-2150.

Marion Square: Has monuments to John Calhoun and Wade Hampton. Contains a part of the Tabby Horn Work, the only remaining section of the bastion system of Colonial defense works. Calhoun St. between King & Market.

St. John's Lutheran Church: Founded by German immigrants in 1817 and has been remodeled. It is known for its wrought-iron gates, fence, and steeple. 843-723-2426.

St. Mary's Church: Established in 1789, is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in South Carolina. The present building was completed in 1839. 89 Hasell St. 843-722-7696.

St. Michael's Episcopal Church: Completed in 1761, is the oldest church edifice in the city. George Washington worshipped here. It's Palladian Doric portico and storied steeple rise 186 feet above the street. The clock in the tower has been operational since 1764. Broad & Meeting St. 843-723-0603.

Washington Square: Includes several monuments honoring South Carolinians. Also on the square is the nations first fireproof structure. At Broad and Meeting Sts.

Huguenot Church: One of the last remaining French Huguenot churches in the nation. Built in 1844-45 by Edward White. The church is a good example of gothic architecture. 136 Church St. 843-722-4385.

Joseph Manigault House: A notable house of the Adam style. The furniture was made in France, England, and Charleston. A hidden stairway connects the second and third floor. 350 Meeting St. 843-723-2926.

Heyward-Washington House: Built in 1772 by Daniel Heyward. George Washington slept herein 1791. A kitchen house, servants' quarters, and garden behind the main house are open to visitors. 87 Church St. 843-722-0354.

Beth Elohim: An 1840 synagogue of Greek revival design, which first began using instrumental music in 1824. Organized in 1749 and known as the oldest synagogue in use in the nation. Synagogue. 90 Hasell St. 843-723-1090.

Calhoun Mansion: Victorian mansion. 16 Meeting St. 843-722-8205.

Edmondston-Alston House: Built about 1828, furnished with family possessions, including documents, portraits, and porcelain. 21 E. Battery St. 843-722-7171.

Nathaniel Russell House: Was completed in 1808. The house contains a freestanding staircase that spirals up three floors, oval drawing rooms, and ornate interior detailing. 51 Meeting St. 843-724-8481.

Aiken-Rhett House: This house was built in 1818 and has been restored to its antebellum splendor. 48 Elizabeth Street 843-724-8481.

Charleston Museum: Founded in 1773, it is considered the nations oldest museum. Charleston's history is interpreted through collections of clothing, furniture, silver, photographs, and other objects. The museum houses display Charleston's cultural & natural history, archeology, ornithology, and history. The silver exhibit consists of pieces by Charleston's silversmiths from the 18th century. A room designed with hands-on exhibits is available for children. Charleston & Vicinity. 360 Meeting St. 843-722-2996.

Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum: Home of the famous WWII aircraft carrier Yorktown, submarine Clamagore, destroyer Laffey, Coast Guard cutter Ingham, and the Medal of Honor Museum. Vintage military aircraft and weapons are on display.

The Citadel Museum: Features the history of The Military College of South Carolina from 1842 to the present. Military, academic, and athletic aspects of cadets life are displayed through exhibits. A cadet dress parade is held almost every Friday during the school year. Main gate at The Citadel. 843-953-6846.

The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon: Built by the British in 1771. George Washington was entertained several times here. See the dungeons where American patriots were imprisoned, and the original sea wall of Charles Towne. 122 E. Bay St. at Broad St. 843-727-2165.

City Hall: Built 1801, contains historic relics and original paintings. Located at Broad & Meeting St. Call 843-577-6970.

Gibbes Museum of Art: Houses one of the finest collections of American art in the Southeast. Consists of paintings, portraits, and drawings from the 18th century to the present. Located at 135 Meeting St.

 

For information about state parks, visit www.southcarolinaparks.com.