Location: French Quarter
Top Things to do in French Quarter
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What to do and see in French Quarter, South Carolina (SC): The Best History Museums
Historic Charleston is bursting with Southern charm and hospitality. The city feels a bit like it’s suspended in time, thanks to its antebellum architecture and surrounding plantation landscapes. Take in incredible views of the Battery and the French Quarter as you stroll the Waterfront Park, then become inspired by the cultivated beauty of the gardens at Middleton Place. At night, try a ghost tour for an introduction to the spooky side of the city.
Restaurants in Charleston
1. South Carolina Historical Society Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
Located in the historic Fireproof Building, the South Carolina Historical Society Museum spans six interactive galleries and showcases more than 350 years of South Carolina history through the artifacts, personal treasures, and handwritten accounts of those who experienced it.
Reviewed By 88sherrik
I am from MT...after visiting here and listening to Mitchell (the docent there), I came away with a new perspective of the Civil War South. This is a wonderful Museum. I sure did pick a great museum to visit, when I chose this one! Thank you so much to the friendly helpful front desk attendant. A special thank you to docent Mitchell...it was a pleasure learning what you had to share, you are a credit to this museum and to Charleston. If you only visit 1 museum in Charleston...I strongly suggest you choose this one!
2. The Powder Magazine
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 125 reviews
The Powder Magazine is South Carolina's oldest public building. It was constructed in 1713 for gunpowder storage and now stands as a colonial military history museum.
Reviewed By natashaj753
Self guided tour with lots of information. If you bought a ticket for something else in the city, for example the Palmetto carriage rides, you can get in for free. This was a very interesting place to visit, very relaxing as well. Would definitely recommend.
3. Old Slave Mart Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,463 reviews
Reviewed By globalfinder312 - Chicago, United States
The Old Slave Mart is a small, high-impact, and carefully researched museum located in the actual space where slaves were traded once streetside sales were banned . You'll come away with a better understanding of the scope, economic underpinnings, and human costs of slavery. Knowledgeable docents provide a short overview before the self-guided tour. Don't miss the opportunity to hear recorded oral histories. Allow up to an hour. Good onsite bookstore. An essential experience.
4. Historic Charleston Foundation
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 38 reviews
Located in a renovated gas station (c. 1930), Shop Historic Charleston's flagship store at 108 Meeting Street offers jewelry, food, tea, local art, and more quintessential Charleston gifts. In addition to the casual furnishings and garden and home décor you will find, Shop Historic Charleston boasts the city's largest bookstore dedicated to history, architecture, preservation, garden design and Lowcountry cuisine.
Reviewed By joyceftalbot - Georgetown, United States
I needed to pick up a "Thank You" gift for the owners of the home we were visiting and thought immediately of the Foundation's gift shop. I found a lovely little book, some fabulous local jams, napkins and local honey....just the thing for a gift!
5. Colonial Charleston
Welcome to Charleston - or Charles Towne as the city was originally named. You are invited to explore thirteen historic sites and museums of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Learn how these locations helped to forge a state and nation. Plan your visit for one day, or an entire week! Get your Colonial Charleston Passport and walk the Revolution Trail...
