There are many places to see in Charleston, South Carolina. The Old Slave Mart Museum, the Gibbes Museum of Art, Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, and Waterfront Park are just a few. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Old Slave Mart Museum
The Old Slave Mart Museum is one of Charleston’s most intriguing attractions. This building was once home to an antebellum slave auction gallery and is believed to be the only one of its kind in South Carolina. Founded in 1859, the museum is a must-see for history buffs and anyone who has an interest in slavery.
The Charleston Museum of History, located in the Old Slave Mart, is an edifice devoted to African-American slavery. The museum’s exhibits detail how slaves were traded and sold, including how Charleston became a hub for the trade. The museum also offers firsthand accounts from people who lived through the experience.
The Old Slave Mart Museum was once part of Ryan’s Mart, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Charleston. It’s a historic site, complete with a morgue, slave jail, and old brick-enclosed yard. You’ll also find a collection of African art and slave trade illustrations that tell the story of the slave trade in Charleston. You’ll get a sobering understanding of this infamous period of our history.
While the Old Slave Mart Museum is a fascinating place to visit in Charleston, it may not be suitable for families with small children. The museum is largely comprised of placards with descriptive stories, pictures, and some actual artifacts. The museum is self-guided, so you will need to be attentive and read a lot of information.
Gibbes Museum of Art
Formerly known as the Gibbes Art Gallery, Gibbes Museum of Art was established in 1858 as the Carolina Art Association. It moved into a new Beaux Arts building in 1905. Its collection includes both local and national works of art.
This gorgeous museum is an important part of Charleston’s historic district and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. The Gibbes has over 10,000 works of art, and the museum is open to visitors of all ages. The museum also features a cafe and offers a variety of affordable options for visitors.
For those with younger children, there’s the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, which is perfect for a family day out. The museum features hands-on exhibits and a sensory garden. It also offers educational programs year-round.
If you’re looking for something to do outdoors while in Charleston, make sure to visit the historic market. These quaint streets are lined with historic brick buildings. During the day, you can stroll through the market, while at night, you can enjoy a moonlight carriage ride. For the kids, there are also fossil adventures to participate in. Guests can search for shark teeth and bones, and can even participate in an interactive program.
The Gibbes Museum of Art has history dating back to the late 1800s. In 1899, a local named James Shoolbred Gibbes gave $100,000 to build a new art museum. He also asked for new halls to showcase his paintings.
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
The Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is located in the West Ashley area of Charleston, South Carolina. It preserves the original site of the first permanent English settlement in the Carolinas. This historic site is a must-visit for visitors to Charleston.
Located in the heart of Charleston, Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is a great place to learn about the early history of South Carolina. This state park is 80 acres of historical attractions, outdoor spaces, and educational activities. The site includes an interactive visitor center that will introduce you to colonial life. You can also take part in hands-on activities and see live events at the grounds.
The Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is located at 1500 Old Towne Rd. It is where English settlers first settled in the Carolinas in 1670. You can explore the colony’s history and view replicas of 17th century trading vessels. The site also features a lake and a 3.2-kilometer loop trail. It is suitable for hikers of all abilities, and the views are breathtaking.
If you have a passion for history and nature, you will love the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. You can learn about Charleston’s early days, and even enjoy a hike in the surrounding forests. You can also explore the site’s natural zoo and enjoy a stroll through a charming garden.
Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Charleston. Located near the city market, this park offers amazing views of the Cooper River Bridge and the Charleston Harbor. This waterfront park also features a pier and two fountains. The Splash Fountain is a popular feature, while the Pineapple Fountain is a historic landmark in Charleston. If you’re planning a day trip to Charleston, consider spending a relaxing afternoon in this park.
This waterfront park was created by Mayor Joe Riley in the late 1980s. It features beautiful water views and is free to visit. There are interior and riverside walking paths, as well as a picnic lawn. During warmer months, there is a giant fountain that serves as a splash pad. The park is also close to other attractions, including the Battery and White Point Gardens.
The Charleston Museum is another interesting place to visit in Charleston. Founded in 1773, the museum features local, state, and natural history. Visitors can also see relics from shipwrecks and enjoy a history matchmaker game. It has exhibits that will educate and awe the whole family.
The Waterfront Park is located at the southern tip of the peninsula and is one of the best places to visit in the city. It features beautiful gardens, fountains, and plenty of park benches. It also provides a gorgeous view of the Charleston Harbor. The park covers more than a thousand feet of land along the coast.
Middleton Place
The gardens at Middleton Place are America’s oldest landscaped gardens, and the entire estate is listed on the National Historic Register. Visitors can view the formal gardens, South “Flanker” house, and the stables and slave quarters that were once a part of the property. In addition to the gardens, Middleton Place is also home to a museum that highlights the lives of slaves.
Middleton Place is an elegant home and former plantation built by Henry Middleton in 1755. The house is home to a collection of fine silver, furniture by Thomas Elfe, and portraits by Benjamin West and John James Audubon. It also features a shop featuring local craftspeople and a plantation lunch.
The Middleton family has been influential in Charleston since the 17th century. They established their plantation here, and some of their descendants have held high positions in history: Henry Middleton served as president of the First Continental Congress, while Arthur Middleton signed the Declaration of Independence. Arthur Middleton was also governor of South Carolina, and his son William was an important signer of the Ordinance of Secession.
When you visit Middleton Place, be sure to plan your visit around their tours. Tours are offered daily, except on Christmas Day. There is a restaurant on site that serves lunch and dinner, and is open from 11am to 3pm daily. Visitors should make reservations ahead of time to make sure they can get a table. The restaurant accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards.
