The city of Charleston was founded in 1670. Charleston’s size and wealth grew rapidly and by the middle of the nineteenth century the cotton and rice industry were driving its economy skyward. In 1861 all of that changed when the first shot of the Civil War was fired on the city’s Fort Sumter. After the war, Charleston slowly recovered and shifted their interests from agriculture to shipping and industry. It was the city’s fierce pride that got it through those tumultuous years. That same fiery sense of pride seems to have been passed down from generation to generation and remains as strong as ever. Charleston was the first American city to establish a historic district in order to protect and maintain its historical and architectural structures. There are approximately 2,000 buildings encompassed by the historic district of which more than 70 were built before the Revolutionary War. Another 130 or so date back to the late 18th century and more than 600 were built before the mid 1800’s.

With its picturesque cobblestone streets, horse drawn carriages and remarkably preserved architecture, Charleston is a destination where history seems to come alive. If you are planning to take in some of the city’s notable historic sites, make a stop at the visitors centre to pick up some information and park your car. Parking in Charleston is very limited and towing is strictly enforced so your best bet is to take the DASH, Downtown Area Shuttle, from the visitors centre to all the best sights. You can also purchase a two day Heritage Passport ticket which provides access to six of the city’s main attractions. Guided walking and carriage tours are also great ways to explore the city’s sites. One of the city’s best attractions is Fort Sumter National Monument. Park Service rangers conduct two and a half hour tours detailing the forts fascinating Civil War history and there is also a museum on site. Another great place to check out is the Charleston Museum which details the natural and cultural history of the area dating back to prehistoric times with an extensive collection of over 500,000 artifacts. Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum is an attraction everyone will enjoy. Here you can tour the aircraft carrier Yorktown, a submarine used in the Cold War, a destroyer and explore the Congressional Medal of Honour Museum. Calhoun Mansion, Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens and Charles Towne Landing State Park are also well worth a visit.

There is no shortage of shopping or entertainment in Charleston either. If you are looking for the perfect souvenir you are sure to find it in the Old City Market Area. Here you will find vendors selling everything from crafts to jewelry, food to sweetgrass baskets. The popularity of native crafts such as the sweetgrass baskets has risen dramatically, so don’t expect to find a bargain on these items. You can also check out the stalls at State Street Market or the Rainbow Market. Other great shopping districts include King Street which is lined with specialty shops and boutiques or the Shops at Charleston Place on Market St. for designer fashions by names such as Gucci or Ralph Lauren. Whatever your tastes may be it’s not hard to find a great bar or restaurant in Charleston. Some of the more lively venues include Wet Willies, The Brick and Johnson’s. For a more laid back atmosphere try Meritage or The South End Brewery. Whether you are planning to get away for a week or just the weekend, a vacation to Charleston will be one you will never forget.