The city of Charleston, in South Carolina, is full of historic culture and worldly charm. The skyline is littered with old churches and mansion and the city streets are dotted with amazing gardens and old buildings.

Despite difficulties encountered during the Civil War, including fires and natural disasters, many of the city’s original buildings still exist today. The city of Charleston is bound to captivate you, especially if you start your tour by visiting some of the area’s most respected historic attractions.

10. Market Hall

Market Hall, found in the section of Charleston North of Broad, was originally built in 1841. The market’s building was built to resemble the Temple of Nike, found in Athens, Greece. Inside this incredible architectural site you’ll find a number of interesting Confederate artifacts, most of which are housed in the Confederate Museum.

9. Drayton Hall

Drayton Hall, built somewhere around 1738, is one of the most respected examples of remaining Georgian-Palladian architecture still in existence in the United States today. Drayton Hall is located West of the Ashley River and is the only Ashley River plantation house that was able to avoid destruction during the Civil War. Inside you’ll find original woodwork, plaster moldings, and copies of historic documents tracking the sale and purchase of slaves.

8. The Hunley

The Hunley was the first successfully built submarine, constructed for the Confederates in 1864. No one knows why, but the submarine vanished suddenly not long after it was completed and was not found again until 1995 where it was discovered near Sullivan’s Island. The submarine was raised from the waters in the year 2000 and is now preserved in a large tank. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance if you want to see this amazing site.

7. Fort Sumter National Monument

April 12, 1861 marks a turning point in history. On that day, from Fort Sumter, the first battle of the Civil War was fought. The Union was forced to give up the fort which was then held by the Confederates until it was abandoned in February of 1865. The fort, which was destroyed, is now controlled by the National Park Service.

6. Charles Pickney National Historic Site

The Charles Pickney National Historic Site, located near Mount Pleasant, represents all that survives from the Charles Pickney Estate – Charles Pickney being one of the drafters and first signers of our country’s Constitution. A tour of the estate will teach you about plantation life and the relationships between slaves and their owners during the pre-Civil War era.

5. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is also located West of the Ashley River. Construction of the garden began in 1685 and has grown into a stunning collection of historic artifacts and botanical wonder. The site is home to a 19^th century plantation house, a 125-acroe Waterfowl Refuge, a 30-acre Audubon Swamp Garden, a small petting zoo, and much more. This is a great place to learn about the development of the Charleston area, from both a natural and historic perspective.

4. St. Michael’s Episcopal Church

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, located South of Broad, was first built in 1752. The oldest remaining church in Charleston, St. Michael’s has undergone several changes over time. The steeple clock wasn’t added until 1764 and the altar wasn’t added until 1892. This amazing historic church is open to the public every day except Sunday.

3. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

The Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is located in the Mount Pleasant section of Charleston and was the home to several notable ships, aircraft carriers, destroyers, and submarines used during World War II and Vietnam. Most notable were the USS Yorktown, the USS Clamagore, and the USS Laffey. Exhibits include information about watercraft, air craft, and specific battles or projects in which they were used.

2. South Carolina Aquarium

Charleston is the proud home of the South Carolina Aquarium where more than 10,000 aquatic creatures from over 500 different marine species live in natural habitats. One of the most astounding features is the 380,000 gallon Great Ocean exhibit with a gigantic window rivaling those found in most other North American aquariums.

1. College of Charleston

Built in 1828, Randolph Hall, serves as one of the main focal points of the College of Charleston today. The college was founded in 1770 but this particular building is a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture and its surrounding quad is the location of many major graduation ceremonies and concerts.

The city of Charleston has lots to offer visitors from all walks of life but is an especially charming city for history enthusiasts – especially those with a passion for the Civil War. Book a Charleston hotel, pack your bags, and enjoy a weekend in one of the friendliest cities in the South.