As much as we like to look on the sunny side, sometimes weather dictates that indoor activities are the best (and driest, or perhaps coolest) way to spend time exploring Charleston. We’ve got you covered. Literally.

Depending on the forecast and your adventure quotient, use the itineraries below to chart out excellent climate-controlled options, buffered with suggestions for getting outside for active-lifestyle ways to experience Charleston’s natural charm.

Day 1

In which history and nature team up

The Charleston Museum exterior
Historic Charleston

The Charleston Museum

360 Meeting St.

The Charleston Museum is one of the oldest museums in the United States, and home to a highly regarded collection that includes historic artifacts, natural history displays, decorative arts (including one of the country’s finest early American silver collections), textiles and costumes, and two historic Charleston houses.

Pro-Tip: Buy a “package” 2-site ticket to enjoy historic home tours of the Heyward-Washington House or the Joseph Manigault House from the Charleston Museum website.
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Charleston aquarium interior
Under the sea

South Carolina Aquarium

100 Aquarium Wharf

Visit the South Carolina Aquarium and watch the astonishing underwater world come to life! Don’t miss the Sea Turtle Care Center to learn about how the community is helping to rescue, rehabilitate and release sick or injured sea turtles.

edmondston alston house exterior
Historic house

Edmondston-Alston House

21 East Battery

We love this historic house museum which provides a beautifully accurate representation for how planter families lived. The home is ideally situated to enjoy sweeping views of the Charleston Harbor, including Fort Sumter.

Day 2

In which we encounter angels, art and old villages

Angel oak tree
Natural beauty

Angel Oak

3688 Angel Oak Rd. Johns Island

Photo Op alert! This ancient live oak tree is thought to be one of the oldest living things in the country. “You have to see it to believe it!"

Pitt Street Bridge at sunset
Cross the harbor

The Old Village + Pitt Street Bridge

Mount Pleasant

The Old Village in Mount Pleasant is a prime residential neighborhood and tucked-away oasis that once was the heart of a quaint fishing village. Walk down the historic trolley bridge, now the Pitt Street Bridge, for stunning views of the downtown skyline and Sullivan’s Island across the waterway.

Dock street theatre exterior
Take in a show

Dock Street Theatre

135 Church St.

Known as America’s First Theatre, Dock Street was the nation’s first building to be constructed solely for the purpose of hosting live performances. Plan to catch a show, or just pop in during the day for a glance at the beautiful, intimate theater space. Head down the street after the show to enjoy a glass of wine at Bin 152!

Gibbes Museum of Art exterior
Get your art on

Gibbes Museum of Art

135 Meeting St.

The Gibbes Museum of Art is home to an excellently curated collection of American art, including the foremost collection of miniature portraits, that incorporates the story of Charleston. Don’t miss the garden in the back!

Day 3

In which we hit the water, and the ballpark

Paddle boarder with sailboat in background at sunset
Hit the water

Kayaking and/or Stand-Up Paddleboarding

1871 Bowens Island Rd.

Venture out of the city and explore Charleston’s natural wonders and wildlife on Folly Creek, led by the knowledgeable local tour guides of Charleston Outdoor Adventures. Enjoy moderate, fun exercise and cool water breezes while appreciating the beauty of our waterways.

Pro-Tip: To balance out those burned calories, visit the iconic Bowen’s Island restaurant for an authentic local seafood experience on your way back.

Fishing charter boat in the ocean
Set sail

Redfin Fishing Charters

Inshore or Nearshore Charleston Waters

As professional anglers, RedFin Captains love the sport of fishing and getting out on the gorgeous waters of the Lowcountry. With 20+ years of combined experience in Charleston, they understand the changing waters, migration patterns and habits of the coveted Redfish, Speckled Sea Trout and Flounder that we target in the Lowcountry.

Pro-Tip: Let our concierge set up Black Car transportation to and from the marina—all you have to worry about is climbing aboard and reeling ‘em in.

Charleston Riverdogs baseball stadium
Play ball

Charleston Riverdogs

360 Fishburne St.

A night at “The Joe” is a fun, wholesome outing for the whole family. Charleston’s hometown minor league team has one of the most beautiful stadiums in the country, so grab a gourmet hotdog and some boiled peanuts, savor the sunset over the Ashley River, and cheer the boys on.

Pro-Tip: Go on a Thursday for dollar beer night!