Forum Discussion

MetalGator's avatar
May 08, 2014

Things to do in Charleston, SC

The wife and I are going to Charleston the end of May for 4 days. We are staying at the Mt. Pleasant KOA. Tried to get into James Island but they only had 2 days available of the 4 we needed.

We have never been to Charleston before and would like some input on some things to do in the area. I noticed that there's an aircraft carrier there (USS Yorktown). Can you actually board the ship for a tour? I am a bit of a history buff and stuff like that really interest me. My wife is more into shopping and food (she is a food network junkie). Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Burch

16 Replies

  • I would add Ft Moultrie to the list and lunch at Hymans near the market. A carriage ride is a great way to see the old homes. History abounds.
  • Agree with the Patriots Point and Boone Hall plantation recommendations. Will also recommend Magnolia Plantation and Gardens as well.

    Don't forget teh market on "Market Street". There are also ghost tours if you are in that sort of thing. Since you like history, you often get some history out of them.
  • Dinner at The Plantation Inn. You will not be disappointed.
  • If you're a history buff, you'll be in your glory!

    We went to Charleston, last June and had a wonderful time. So much to see an do from the USS Yorktown to Ft. Sumpter and the old plantations. The carriage tour around the city was also very interesting and highly recommended. We really didn't eat out much but hit all the recommended sites and enjoyed every one.

    Great place to visit!
  • The aircraft carrier is at a location called Patriots Point. The have a submarine, coast guard vessel and musuem.

    May also consider a trip out to Fort Sumter which not only wil take you to the fort but also give you a water tour of the harbor.

    If into nature, you could consider a day trip by ferry to Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.

    Back to history would be the plantations in the area. The closest to KOA Mt Pleasant would be Boone Hall Plantation.

    Since it will be hot by June, an evening stroll in downtown Charleston will feel wonderful with the cooler ocean breeze coming into town. And what better way than on a ghost tour. Either (Walking tour) or carriage tour.

    Problem will be deciding how to spend your limited time.
  • Yes. The carrier is a Patriot's Point and open for touring for a fee. Other ships and a Vietnam display are there too. Fort Sumter is interesting as is The Battery and Old Charleston. Also the market is interesting as well as many historic homes. Tours leaving from the visitor's center is a good way to get an overview of the sites and history.

About Campground 101

Recommendations, reviews, and the inside scoop from fellow travelers.14,728 PostsLatest Activity: Jun 14, 2025