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.
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.
Visit Some Of Charleston’s Museums
Charleston Museum
Celebrating 250 years, the Charleston Museum is hailed as “America’s First Museum” and was established by the Charleston Library Society on the eve of the American Revolution. The museum closed temporarily due to the Civil War but opened again shortly after. Today, the Museum contains the most comprehensive collection of South Carolina materials in the US.
The Gibbes Museum of Art
Charleston’s only visual arts museum holds so much for guests of all ages to gaze at in wonder. Home to the foremost collection of American art that incorporates the story of Charleston, the museum connects the city and region’s artistic past to a vibrant contemporary art scene.
Historic Homes
As the oldest city in South Carolina, Charleston is home to many historical houses. Take a day to visit some of these properties, such as the Joseph Manigault House, the Heyward-Washington House (both properties of the Charleston Museum), and the Nathaniel Russell House, and learn more about the city’s deep history.
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.
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.
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. Some fan favorites include Fatty’s Beer Works, Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co, and Revelry Brewing Co.
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 touring Broadway shows, 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, a vintage cinema where you can enjoy a movie along with a refreshing glass of wine.
Get a strike at The Alley
Eat, drink, and bowl at ‘one of America’s coolest Bowling Alleys’ according to Travel + Leisure magazine. You’ll find eight bowling lanes, three bars featuring craft beer and great bartenders, a full kitchen with unique American classics, retro arcade games, two 160″ projection screens, and multiple TVs for all the top games. The Alley is truly a rainy-day classic. Lace up your bowling shoes and enjoy a few games with a side of loaded tater tots.
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!