7 Best Attractions To Visit In South Carolina
South Carolina is known for its sun-drenched beaches, moss-draped oaks, centuries of history, and a culture that celebrates both tradition and new experiences. From strolling cobblestone streets in Charleston, listening to the ocean waves on Hilton Head Island, or hiking through the towering trees of Congaree National Park, you’ll quickly see why this state captures the hearts of so many travelers. Its charm lies in its balance, where historic forts stand proudly alongside modern attractions, and Southern-inspired cuisine is best enjoyed after a day of outdoor adventure. South Carolina offers something for every kind of traveler, making each visit personal, memorable, and uniquely its own.
Charleston Historic District
When it comes to South Carolina’s must-see attractions, the Charleston Historic District is at the very top. A walk through its cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a postcard. Start with Rainbow Row, a stretch of pastel-colored Georgian houses along East Bay Street that glow in the sunlight and remain one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. From there, wander over to The Battery, a scenic promenade where you can take in sweeping views of Charleston Harbor.
Next, make your way to the Charleston City Market, a lively spot where you can browse sweetgrass baskets handcrafted by local artisans. When it’s time to eat, you’ll find plenty of choices nearby. Try shrimp and grits at Husk or slurp the freshest oysters at 167 Raw. To round out your visit, dive into the rich history of Charleston with a carriage ride past antebellum mansions, or step inside the Old Slave Mart Museum or the International African American Museum for a deeper look at the stories that shaped the city.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, open year-round except for select holidays, is another must-visit destination in Charleston. It offers the perfect chance to immerse yourself in history, explore lush nature, and soak in breathtaking beauty. Situated along the Ashley River, the historic estate, dating back to 1676, is filled with centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss, blooming camellias, and charming arched wooden bridges.
Take your time wandering the Audubon Swamp Garden, where herons stalk the shallows, turtles bask on logs, and tranquil ponds mirror the surrounding greenery. Then step inside the Magnolia House to dive deeper into history, with multiple guided tours offered daily. The site also has a Nature Train tour that takes you past the area's wetlands, forests, marshes, and swamps, as well as a Wildlife Center where you can see animal exhibits. Wrap up your day with a bite at the Peacock Café and browse the gift shop for keepsakes to remember your visit.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade
If you find yourself in Myrtle Beach, a visit to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade is an absolute must. Stretching just over a mile from 14th Avenue Pier to Second Avenue Pier, the boardwalk is packed with activities and sights for all ages. Begin the day at the Fun Plaza Arcade, where classic and modern games will keep everyone entertained, then take in the views from the SkyWheel Myrtle Beach, an observation wheel nearly 200 feet tall and the first of its kind along the coast. Just a few steps away, Landshark Bar & Grill is perfect for grabbing a bite or enjoying live music.
Other must-see stops along the boardwalk include the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove, a quirky souvenir shop offering everything from apparel and home décor to jewelry and trendy keepsakes. Afterward, wander over to Plyler Park, a peaceful place to retreat to where you’ll find the stunning 12-foot bronze sculpture, Goddess of the Sea, featuring a mermaid playfully dancing with two dolphins. While the boardwalk is enjoyable year-round, summer is when it truly comes alive, with special entertainment and a spectacular fireworks show.
Congaree National Park
Located in Hopkins, Congaree National Park is one of the best attractions for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting South Carolina. The park offers trails for every skill level. Take the Boardwalk Trail for an easy stroll under towering bald cypress and loblolly pine trees that seem to stretch endlessly into the sky, or tackle the Oakridge Trail, which winds along a gentle ridge through an old-growth forest filled with massive oak trees. Beyond the trails, you can also explore by canoe or kayak, paddling along Cedar Creek.
For an overnight stay, tent camping is your only option within the park, with two campgrounds available by reservation. While there are no food services inside the park, you’ll find a few dining options nearby in Gadsden, or you can head to Columbia, which is about 30 miles away, for a wider variety of restaurants. Congaree National Park is open year-round, making it an easy addition to any South Carolina adventure.
Hilton Head Island
Among the top places to visit in South Carolina, Hilton Head Island is a must. This scenic barrier island is known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and relaxed Lowcountry charm. Start your day by hopping on a bike to explore the island’s winding pathways along the coastline, then spend the afternoon at Coligny Beach Park, Hilton Head’s most popular oceanfront spot, soaking up the sun, sand, and surf. If golf is your thing, you can tee off at any of the dozens of championship courses scattered across the island.
Hilton Head also offers plenty of attractions worth exploring, such as the Adventure Cove Family Fun Center, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, the Coastal Discovery Museum, and the Harbour Town Lighthouse & Museum, home to the iconic candy-striped lighthouse. For even more adventure, hop on a dolphin-watching cruise, paddle through tidal creeks, or wander the trails of the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, where wildlife and scenic lagoons abound.
Falls Park On The Reedy
A trip to Greenville isn’t complete without visiting Falls Park on the Reedy, one of the city’s top-rated green spaces. While there, take in the park’s centerpiece, a stunning waterfall that tumbles gracefully through the urban landscape. Afterward, walk along Liberty Bridge, which spans the Reedy River, for one of the most breathtaking views of the falls, then wander the surrounding trails dotted with gardens and sculptures.
Beyond its natural beauty, the park also showcases striking public art, from the Rose Crystal Tower sculpture by Dale Chihuly to the Sunflower Fountain, a cast-bronze piece inspired by the spiraling center of a sunflower. Just a short walk away, Main Street is lined with cafes and restaurants like Soby’s, where you can enjoy Southern-inspired cuisine made from fresh, locally grown, seasonal ingredients. With festivals, concerts, and seasonal events throughout the year, Falls Park on the Reedy is a top spot to visit no matter the season.
Fort Sumter And Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
The Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park is one of South Carolina’s top historical attractions. Start your journey at the Fort Sumter Visitor Center at Liberty Square, where exhibits, films, and interactive displays help you understand the fort’s pivotal role in the Civil War. From there, board a ferry and take in sweeping views of Charleston Harbor on your way to historic Fort Sumter. Afterward, head to Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island, where you can explore well-preserved fortifications, walk the historic grounds, and see the cannons that protected the harbor across multiple wars.
Guided tours and ranger-led programs at both forts bring the history to life. Ferry tickets to Fort Sumter include access to the fort, while Fort Moultrie has a small separate entry fee. The park is open year-round, except on select holidays, making it easy to plan your visit around your Charleston trip.
Discover South Carolina's Must-Visit Attractions
South Carolina is full of places that stay with you long after you’ve left. You might spend a morning wandering through the gardens at Magnolia Plantation and wrap up your day on the bustling Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade, where the food, music, and energy never seem to stop. Or maybe your trip takes you from the quiet, ancient forests of Congaree National Park to the cobblestone streets of Charleston. No matter where you go, there’s a warmth that ties it all together through the local hospitality, the comfort of Lowcountry flavors, or the sense of history woven into every corner.
