0 km
from city center 53 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Formerly known as Unitarian Universalist church, this church is the oldest Unitarian church in Charleston. Standing in its own right on a popular bustling street, this Church believes in social justice and embraces diversity. This centre of faith has the city's second oldest church building and the church was declared a national historic landmark in 1976. Apart from the picturesque greenery, the Church has jaw dropping interiors. Reflecting ethereal design, Unitarian Church is an English Perpendicular Gothic Revival marvel with a splendid fan vaulted ceiling, nave and chancel. The interiors of the Church are made with walnut and to add to its beauty, the main window is made with stained glass that lists the old and new testaments that are worth a read. The Church is now open during the pandemic. However, there are no fixed timings.

0 km
from city center 54 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

St Philip Church is the oldest congregation of the state. This Church in Charleston was honoured with the designation of National Historic Landmark in 1973. The Church is sophisticated, well kept and tastefully designed in subtle hues that feel soothing. Constructed with stuccoed brick along with elegant porticoes, the church looks strikingly majestic with steeples decorated with vintage clocks. St Philip Church emphasises on interactions amongst all age groups. So, apart from the generic study sessions, it holds meetings for men, youth groups, kids and adults choir too. They have separate activities for kids of different age groups on Sundays. Since so much is going on all the time it is advised to see their monthly schedule in advance if you wish to visit this church.

0 km
from city center 55 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Back in the 1800s, a number of churches were springing up in the city. The Germans wanted to have a church where they could worship in their own dialect. The German Evangelical Lutheran church was founded in the year 1840 and slowly gathered a huge following over the years. Earlier it was located on Hasell and Anson streets but due to the increased following, it had to be relocated. Then the church moved to King Street – its current location in the year 1872. Since then this church in Charleston has been focusing on serving the needy and in undertaking philanthropic activities for community and universal good whenever possible. Based on Gothic architecture, Saint Matthew’s Lutheran Church is the tallest church steeple in the state. Now, this beautiful church is open to visitors at certain time intervals keeping in mind safety guidelines of the pandemic.

0 km
from city center 56 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

St Mary Catholic Church was the first Catholic Church that was established in Georgia and Carolina. The Church embodies the glory of craftsmanship with stained glass windows all the way from Munich. Fluttering with ancient architecture, this Church in Charleston is influenced by Greek revival design amidst a historic shopping district. Surviving blows of fire and war, the present structure has walls adorned with paintings and carvings on a few places. Enriched with history and peaceful surroundings, St Mary of Annunciation Catholic Church is a must visit.

0 km
from city center 57 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

St John’s Lutheran Church is famous as the Mother Church of Lutheranism in South Carolina. This church in Charleston is an example of exemplary wrought iron work on the front entrance gates. The church has an Italianate steeple that is covered with a bell shaped roof. St John’s Lutheran Church has a rectangular building that is made with stuccoed brick combining Central and Baroque architecture of components in design. Now, the St John’s Lutheran church is open to the public under strict safety guidelines.

0 km
from city center 58 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

A part of Charleston Historic District, Grace Church Cathedral is an Episcopal church in Charleston. Built in a Gothic design template, This church has 10 bells and is made stuccoed brick. Grace Church Cathedral is not a conventional church as it is always high on energy because of the events it organises. Apart from spiritual sessions, the church is a centre of philanthropy and promotes social justice through gender equality, communal harmony, education and climatic control. This church in Charleston actively encourages Catholic art, music and ideas through its forum and podcasts. The best part of this place is that it holds special yoga sessions online for overall well being. Currently, the church is conducting a live stream of all its activities through social media and apps like Zoom.

0 km
from city center 59 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

French Huguenot Church is a result of the European Protestant movement. French Protestants or Huguenots started settling in the areas and began rehabilitation in these colonies. This Church in Charleston was built in 1687. The building later got exposed to a fire breakout that severely damaged it. However, it was redone in 1844 in the Gothic revival style and that’s how the current building looks like. In this church earlier, the teachings were done in French but now this happens only once a year. Every Sunday, the worshippers enjoy music and scripture study after the prayer is completed. Keeping the pandemic situation in mind, the Church has significantly reduced its opening time. It is advised to be on time and follow all Covid 19 precautions.

0 km
from city center 60 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Formerly a part of Circular Congregational Church, First Scots Presbyterian Church is the fifth oldest congregation of the city. This Church in Charleston now walks on the path of the Church of Scotland. With stuccoed bricks covering the walls, twin towers, covered portico and stained glass spanning the entrance is a sight to behold.

0 km
from city center 61 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Like other Churches, Cathedral of St John the Baptist fought various challenges to be what it is today. Inspired by Gothic architecture, this Church in Charleston is made of brownstone exteriors alongside large stained glass windows, engraved bells, carved oak pews and mesmerising marble altars on the inside. Keeping in mind the magnitude of activity, the Church keeps its followers updated with their weekly and monthly schedule on its website. It is advised to check it out in advance and plan the visit accordingly. Apart from the spiritual sessions, the Church holds Cathedral choir sessions, conscious classes on climate and environmental sustainability, discussions for young adults on relevant issues of interest and family planning for a stronger societal framework.

0 km
from city center 62 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Known as Paul’s Radcliffeboro, Cathedral of St Luke and St Paul is an old Cathedral church in Charleston. Built in a new Gothic style, the building of the Cathedral was earlier a simple building. With the passing times, the interiors were adorned with fancy paintings, stained-glass windows and gold paint leaf designs on the walls. Owing to Covid 19 pandemic, all the prayers and activities are being organised through the social media apps and softwares like zoom.

0 km
from city center 63 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Central Congregational Church was earlier called the Circular Church. This church in Charleston back in the day used to be an independent church but in 1882, it joined Congregational Association, The United Church of Christ and United Presbyterian church. It is the only church that is a part of two major denominations. Since it is influenced by various groups, the architecture is no different. It is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic design with the cloverleaf-like building structure.The church looks regal with twin stairways, wrought iron railings and carvings on pillars. The church embodies a beautiful serene personality and is a must visit.

0 km
from city center 64 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Declared the best art gallery from 2015 to 2017 by Charleston Living magazine, Robert Lange Studios celebrates diversity and dynamic art trends. Boosting local and international art, this art gallery in Charleston spans 6000 square feet. Located in one of the oldest buildings in Charleston, this gallery has an old school aesthetic appeal on the exterior with brick walls. As you enter, you are greeted with a modern industrial type interior with subtle music. The studio stirs your mind with its visual pieces both literal and symbolic. Acknowledged as one of the top things to do in Charleston by another leading magazine, Robert Lange Studios is a treat with its live studio art, interactive displays and rock stacking set up upstairs.

0 km
from city center 65 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Nestled in the College of Charleston, Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art aims at encouraging budding and experienced artist to explore and take their artistic acumen to a new level. This art gallery in Charleston is a non-profit organisation that focuses on specific subjects by actively participating in events and holding programmes where it sets a common stage for discussion through lectures, films, panels and symposia. The subjects of discussion mainly revolve around history and culture. Apart from the few exhibitions it organises every year, it makes sure to organise a few events outside South Carolina too for enhanced exposure.

0 km
from city center 66 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Located in the iconic French Quarter, the Principal Gallery of Charleston marks the coming together of American and international artists. A member of the Charleston Gallery Association, this art gallery is known for its impeccable contemporary art that lays emphasis on oil and bronze sculptures and visual representations. Suitable for both amateurs and experts, this art gallery in Charleston encourages an individual vision of every artist through its solo exhibitions, group shows and art fairs.

0 km
from city center 67 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

George Gallery is one of the most popular art galleries in Charleston amongst Southern artists. A culmination of creativity and abstract versions of the artist's vision, this gallery excels in contemporary American and European art. Unlike other art galleries, George Gallery gives consultation services for a variety of commercial and residential projects. Owing to the pandemic scene, commissioned works are not being entertained.

0 km
from city center 68 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

A collector’s paradise, Corrigan Gallery is the Mecca of art in South Carolina. From luxury pieces to beginners art, this art gallery in Charleston houses pieces of different materials in sizes. Specialising in contemporary and Charleston Renaissance art, the gallery organises monthly exhibitions where it showcases oil paintings, water paintings, acrylics, etchings, woodcuts, linocuts, sculptures, glasswork, paper collectables to name a few. Even though the gallery is not too big in terms of size, this place is a must-visit owing to the value it adds to the artistic landscape of the city. Not only open six days a week, but the art gallery also has an option of online virtual tours that is available 24*7!

0 km
from city center 69 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Another small and cosy art gallery in Charleston, the Atrium Art Gallery curates abstract and contemporary art forms with diverse media. Thought-provoking and inspiring, the art gallery keeps refreshing its exhibits time and again. Coping up with the pandemic, the Atrium Art Gallery commenced special virtual tours every month that is dedicated to a particular artist.

0 km
from city center 70 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Meyer Vogl Gallery is another contemporary art gallery in Charleston. Just like other art galleries where both amateurs and experts get to showcase their talent, this art gallery is known to upgrade its exhibits from time to time. The highlight of Meyer Vogl Gallery is its workshops where one gets a chance to appreciate art and learn techniques that they can confidently apply. These sessions focus on the influence and inspiration behind the creation and teach ways as to how it can be recreated in a manner where the learner can express his creativity. These classes are highly recommended for every art enthusiast.

0 km
from city center 71 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Le Prince Fine Art Gallery is named after its founder Kevin Le Prince. This art gallery in Charleston showcases the work of the founder and a few other artists. However, Le Prince Fine Art Gallery is majorly used as the founder’s studio. Kevin works here every day and is always eager to have a chit chat with the visitors.

0 km
from city center 72 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Redux Contemporary Art Centre is a non-profit art gallery in Charleston. Small yet impactful, this art centre is known for the best art sessions, workshops and discussion panels in South Carolina. Workshops like figure painting, portrait drawing are a must attend if you happen to be in Charleston on assigned dates. Redux also takes the initiative to discuss the evolution of art across various communities and how they have reached where they are today. With thought-provoking conversations and panels, this art gallery is a must-visit for curious artistic minds.

3 km
from city center 73 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Arguably the most popular fort of the city and one of the most famous ones in the nation, Fort Sumter is a must-visit spot. The fort is placed upon an artificial island, sitting at the harbour gate and has seen the beginning of the Civil War in the late 19th century. The fort was built as a protective structure that can save the city from foreign invasion in the early 19th century. Though the fort could have been more glorious than it is now, with a structure stronger than most forts currently, the construction was cut short due to various reasons. In 1861, when the war broke out, the fort faced massive damage to its structure and though repairs have been made, it is still not restored to how it was when it was initially built. The fort now serves as a monument for locals and tourists. It displays the rich history that it has witnessed through the years. The fort and the Visitor Education Centre offer tours and exhibits to better explain the incidents that occurred there. The fort can be accessed by riding a ferry from Patriots Point.

7 km
from city center 74 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Situated atop Sullivan’s Island, Fort Moultrie consists of various fortifications built from the late 18th century to protect the city. The fort is one of the oldest ones and holds important events in the history of the USA. The fortification began when Colonel William Moultrie acquired Sullivan’s Island which only had an unfinished fort. Though the war of 1776 ended in favour of Moultrie, the fort was later captured in 1780 by the British, who only left two years later. The first fort was constructed of palmetto logs and sand, but later more robust brick forts were constructed, and the fort only improved from there. After witnessing various wars through almost two centuries, the fortification is now a historic site that offers tours and exhibitions to portray its historical importance. The fort comes under the same governing body as Fort Sumter and is frequented by tourists.

4 km
from city center 75 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Situated just off the harbour initially upon a small island, Castle Pinckney is another fortification of importance in Charleston. The fort was reconstructed on an existing structure that also served as a defence area against possible attacks. Soon after the reconstruction, the structure was struck by a hurricane and took massive damage. For a long time after being repaired, it remained inactive until 1832 when it was re-garrisoned. But the major events for the fort only came during the Civil War as a prison. Due to the lack of facilities, the prisoners were moved to the mainland again. After which, it became a national monument in 1924. Though various people attempted to restore it and turn it into a museum, the island is quite far from the mainland and the necessary funds are not present. It is estimated that the fort will soon disintegrate.

5 km
from city center 76 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Fort Johnson was constructed upon James Island in the early 18th century. It was named after the Proprietary Governor of the Carolinas, Sir Nathaniel Johnson. The entire fortification consisted of three and more forts and structures, most of which were destroyed due to various factors. The fort did not see much activity in the 18th century but later witnessed the American Civil War and its very beginning. That was perhaps the time when new structures were built, and the fort was used the most. Unfortunately, a brick magazine made in the early 19th century is the only stable structure that remains of all the structures. Tours of the site are available, explaining the historical background of the fort.

13 km
from city center 77 out of 77
Things To Do in Charleston

Marking the eastern end of the Christ Church Parish line of defence, this three-gun battery served as an important spot for the war. The fort was a clever earthwork construction that was built to stop federal ships that could infiltrate through the waterways. The structure was a cleverly built one with clever positioning and served its purpose well. Though the structure does not remain in the area anymore, the park is a lovely area to visit and experience. Various information boards across the pathway provide valuable information about the monument and the purposes it served. The greenery is also refreshing to take a walk alongside the historical importance of the fort. Various tours are available for tourists too.