Living in Charleston: Things to Do and See in Charleston, South Carolina

Everything You Wanted to Know About Living in Charleston, South Carolina

Bordered by the Ashley and Cooper rivers, Charleston is a city known for its elegance, hospitality, refined beauty, and historic significance. Dating back to 1670, Charleston was the first English settlement to be established south of Virginia. By the mid-18th Century, Charleston was the wealthiest and fourth largest city in colonial America. Signers of the Declaration of Independence and authors of the United States Constitution have walked the streets of this historic city. Owning a home in downtown Charleston means living amongst people and architecture that have survived the ages and triumphed through the best and worst of times.

What Is the Architecture in Charleston?

Today, Charleston has the largest concentration of pre-Revolutionary homes in the country. These stand alongside the stately mansions of the antebellum period and together they represent the finest architecture of the past—Adamesque, Neoclassical, Charleston single-house, Greek Revival, and Italianate. During the mid-1700s, Adamesque architecture began appearing in the city. Adamesque home details are recognized by the rounded arch above the front door, the classical sunbursts on fireplace mantels, and plaster throughout the interior of the home. The Nathaniel Russell House at 51 Meeting Street, which is open to the public, is an excellent example of Adamesque style. One of Charleston’s periodic disasters, the fire of 1838, was the introduction of Greek Revival architecture into the city. This style is dominant throughout religious buildings in Charleston—Hibernian Society Hall and St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church. The late 1800s introduced Charleston to Italianate and Victorian architecture. These houses are known for towers or turrets, bay projections, and elaborate brackets. Greek Revival architecture started to appear in the south near the early 1900s. The banks, society halls, and plantation homes reflect this era of architecture known for creating memorable and effective buildings and homes. As you can see, an array of architectural excellence can be spotted throughout the city. Take a walk; notice the styles change as you enter into a new borough of the city.

What to Do and See in Charleston?

Stop by an art gallery or café and take in the scenery. Book tickets for a show in a historic theater or simply hop on a carriage ride. Whatever you choose, explore the city and get to know all the unique features Charleston has to offer.

Theaters

Art galleries and theaters are intermingled throughout the city’s finest restaurants. One of the city’s most famous theaters, The Dock Street Theatre, opened in 1736 and was the first building in America built exclusively for theatrical performances. Enjoy a ballet performance, music from the Charleston Symphony, or a Friday evening art walk through the local galleries—the city has something for everyone with a craving for the arts.

Shopping

Charleston also offers world-class shopping with unique boutiques, bookstores, gift shops, and antiques scattered all over the city. Nowhere else can you find a lifestyle so diverse and beautifully preserved.

Where to Eat in Charleston?

In Charleston delicious dining options are around every corner. Enjoy a local brewery, hotel rooftops, historic homes and inns, or a five-star restaurant. All options are typically within walking distance or have a nearby parking garage.

How Many People Live in Charleston?

Population: 36,608

What Languages Are Spoken in Charleston?

Language: English

What is the Currency in Charleston?

Currency: USD

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