Indoor Fun in Charleston
Sometimes Charleston is hot or rainy, but it doesn’t have to damper your time in the Holy City! There are plenty of indoor activities that will make your trip memorable and fun! Read below to get the scoop on where to go when the clouds come out.

Enjoy Charleston's Food Scene
Charleston’s restaurant scene is constantly expanding with an abundance of options to choose from. The city’s chefs are highly innovative, offering unforgettable meals. If you’re looking for a fancy night out or a special occasion, Circa 1886 Restaurant is the perfect destination for an exquisite fine dining experience. For other top-notch food options, we recommend trying 167 Raw, Rodney Scott BBQ, and Leon’s Oyster Shop in Charleston.

Take a Candle-Making Class at Candlefish
This is perfect for a small group of friends who want to chat, drink wine, and create their own custom candles. The classes are educational, light, and a fun way to make your own Charleston souvenir.

Sing Your Heart Out at Karaoke
Looking for a fun indoor activity in Charleston? The Bangkok Lounge is open seven days a week, kicking off the fun at 6pm. Enjoy frozen drinks or their signature Bangkok Punch while belting out your favorite tunes and soaking in the city’s best karaoke vibes.

Explore the Arts District
Charleston is becoming a hub for artists, with a multitude of art galleries scattered throughout the town. Robert Lange Studios stands out as the top choice, having been voted the Best Art Gallery in Charleston several times by the Charleston City Paper. Additionally, Redux Contemporary Art Center houses a variety of personal artist studios and is worth visiting to see the unique creations being produced by these talented individuals.

Shop Till You Drop
Stroll between the cool, inviting indoors of downtown Charleston’s favorite local businesses. Pop into shops like Southern Ruetz, The Tiny Tassel, Charleston Candle Co., Croghan’s Jewel Box, Hampden, and M. Dumas & Sons for a curated selection of fashion, jewelry, and gifts. It’s the perfect way to shop and stay comfortable while exploring Charleston’s unique retail scene!

Sea the Difference at the South Carolina Aquarium
With an award-winning education team, this local marine exhibit features 5,000 animals along with conservation programs to protect local species. Take a journey through all their exhibits, ranging from the mountains to the ocean, and prepare to be left speechless by all the aquarium has to offer.

Head to a Wine Bar or Brewery
Explore the best wine bars that Charleston has to offer. Grab some friends and visit some of the city’s finest such as Bin 152, Graft Wine Shop, Uncork Charleston, and Vintage Lounge, all of which are conveniently located on King Street. Charleston is home to some of South Carolina’s best breweries. With over 30 breweries in the city, each location provides a unique experience with a variety of beers, from traditional styles to more experimental brews.

Explore The Cigar Factory
Eat, drink, shop, and even break a sweat—all under one historic roof! Since 1881, The Cigar Factory has been a place that brought together the Charleston community. Escape the elements and explore a dynamic mix of dining, shopping, and fitness, all while soaking in the rich history of this iconic landmark.

Create Custom Jewelry Pieces at HART
Book a one-on-one appointment with a stylist in Charleston to create custom charm jewelry. Choose your chain and charms, and watch your perfect piece come to life in front of your eyes. Create a souvenir you can wear every day!

Visit the Charleston City Market
Visit one of the most historic places the city has to offer. Located in the heart of Downtown, the Charleston City Market has a design structure unlike anything in the city. Purchase or just window shop from local vendors offering items from sweet treats to jewelry to sweetgrass baskets. The market is open 364 days a year (closed Christmas Day) and operates daily from 9:30 am – 5:30 pm.

Catch a Show or Two
In Charleston, there are various choices to experience live theater or watch the latest blockbuster. If you’re in the mood for some laughter and improvisation, Theater 99 is the place to be for top-notch comedy in the city. For those who prefer watching ballet or Broadway, you can visit the Gaillard Center or the North Charleston Performing Arts Center, both of which have an impressive lineup of performances. If you’re looking for a more relaxed activity on a rainy day, we recommend visiting the Terrace Theater, where you can enjoy a movie along with a refreshing glass of wine.

Get a Strike at The Mix
The Mix is a fun new bar in Mount Pleasant that features an arcade, duckpin bowling, axe throwing, and and arcade. They have a full bar and a menu that includes appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads. They are open seven days a week.
So, instead of letting the heat or rain dampen your fun, embrace the indoors! To keep up on everything Charleston, subside to our e-newsletter and check back soon for more great ideas!