5 Ways To Skip The Games In Charleston

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Charleston, South Carolina, is a city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and Southern charm. While it's a popular destination for couples and romantic getaways, it's also a great place to visit with friends or family. If you're looking for ways to skip the games and have a more laid-back, authentic experience in Charleston, here are five suggestions:

Explore the City's Hidden Gems

Charleston is full of hidden gems and local favorites that are off the beaten path. Instead of visiting the usual tourist traps, try exploring some of the city's lesser-known neighborhoods, such as Cannonborough-Elliottborough or North Central. These areas are filled with unique shops, restaurants, and bars that are loved by locals.

One of the best ways to discover these hidden gems is to take a self-guided walking tour of the city. You can find maps and guides online or at the Charleston Visitor Center. Some popular hidden gems to check out include the Nathaniel Russell House, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum, and the Unitarian Church.

Visit Local Markets and Artisans

Charleston is known for its thriving arts and culture scene, and one of the best ways to experience it is by visiting local markets and artisans. The Charleston City Market is a historic marketplace that's been in operation since 1790. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs, try local foods, and meet local artisans.

Another great market to check out is the West Ashley Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday morning. This market features local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. You can also find local artisans selling their wares at the Charleston Arts Market, which takes place every weekend in the historic district.

Take a Sunset Cruise

One of the most romantic and relaxing things to do in Charleston is take a sunset cruise. There are several companies that offer cruises, but one of the most popular is the Schooner Pride. This historic sailing ship takes passengers on a leisurely cruise of the Charleston Harbor, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding marshes.

As the sun sets, the ship's crew will regale you with stories of Charleston's history and mythology. You can also bring your own food and drinks on board, making it a great way to enjoy a picnic while taking in the sights.

Go on a Bike Ride

Charleston is a very bikeable city, and one of the best ways to see the sights is by taking a bike ride. You can rent bikes at several locations throughout the city, including the Charleston Bike Share program.

One of the most popular bike rides in Charleston is the West Ashley Greenway, which takes you through a scenic trail that winds its way through the marshes and forests of the Lowcountry. You can also take a guided bike tour of the city, which will give you a deeper understanding of Charleston's history and architecture.

Visit the Beach

Charleston is surrounded by beautiful beaches, and one of the best ways to skip the games is to spend the day soaking up the sun. Folly Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area, known for its laid-back surfer vibe and stunning sunsets.

You can also visit Sullivan's Island, which is a bit more off the beaten path. This beach is known for its beautiful scenery and historic landmarks, including the Sullivan's Island Lighthouse.

Try Some Local Cuisine

Charleston is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine, which features fresh seafood, traditional Southern dishes, and innovative fusion cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and oysters.

One of the best ways to experience Charleston's culinary scene is by taking a food tour. These tours will take you to some of the city's best restaurants and eateries, where you can sample local specialties and meet the chefs and owners.

Attend a Local Festival or Event

Charleston is a city that loves to celebrate, and there's always something going on. From the Spoleto Festival to the Moja Arts Festival, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the city's vibrant arts and culture scene.

One of the most popular festivals in Charleston is the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, which takes place every February. This festival features wildlife art, conservation exhibits, and outdoor activities such as kayaking and birdwatching.

Take a Day Trip to a Nearby Town

Charleston is surrounded by charming towns and villages that are worth visiting. One of the most popular day trips is to the town of Summerville, which is known for its beautiful flower farms and historic downtown area.

You can also visit the town of Mount Pleasant, which is located just across the harbor from Charleston. This town is known for its beautiful waterfront park and its historic Shem Creek, which is lined with restaurants and shops.

We hope these suggestions have given you some ideas for skipping the games in Charleston and experiencing the city like a local. Whether you're interested in history, food, or outdoor activities, there's something for everyone in this beautiful city.