Charleston

Charleston is the oldest and second largest city in the south-eastern U.S. state of South Carolina, in the United States of America. The city is located on Charleston Harbour, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Historic District can be explored by either self touring, signing up for a guided walking tour or taking a carriage, which leave from Church and N. Market Streets.

Landmarks include the Old Exchange Building, Rainbow Row, the Battery, St Michael's Church and St Philip's Church.

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is a striking bridge with views over the harbour.

Charleston has a number of house museums which include Nathaniel Russell House, Edmonston-Alston House and Aiken-Rhett House. There is also the Gibbes Museum of Art and the Charleston Museum, featuring 300 years of the city's life and history.

Fort Sumter sits at the entrance of Charleston Harbour, a battered reminder which characterized the Civil War.

The South Carolina Aquarium is located next door to the Fort Sumter National Monument building.

Drayton Hall is a National Trust property, and a fine example of Georgian structure, untouched by Union troops.

Other nature attractions include Magnolia Plantation & Gardens and Middleton Place with its Butterfly Lakes, formal gardens and extensive vistas over rice fields and the river.

Golf is available at one of the many courses in the area.

At Charleston Tea Plantation, on the rural Wadmalaw Island, see tea being grown at the only tea producing farm in America.

Typical dishes of Charleston include Benne-Oyster Soup, Shrimp and Grits, Charleston Red Rice and Frogmore Stew (seafood).

The Port of Charleston’s Cruise Passenger Terminal is located in downtown Charleston in the heart of the historic district, close to many shops and restaurants.

Taxis are available at the port.

Plans for a new Cruise Terminal is still being debated for Charleston as of 2015.