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As one of the largest cities in South Carolina, people assume that traveling to Charleston is expensive. Well, we’ve got some news for you, there are plenty of activities in the city that you can experience without needing to spend anything!
In this article, we’ve compiled a long list of free things to do in Charleston, SC, that a woman over 50 like you will definitely love! Continue reading to learn more.
Free Things to Do in Charleston SC
Remember to enjoy and have fun reasonably in this great historical city! Our list below will help you make the most out of your trip.
1. Cross the Arthur Ravenel Bridge
First on the list, you can’t miss out on crossing this cable-stayed bridge on foot or by bike. You can see the sunset atop the oceans and delight in the breathtaking sights of Charleston Harbor and the whole cityscape.
2. North Charleston’s Riverfront Park
Walk around the Riverfront Park and check out the Naval Base Memorial. It pays tribute to those who fought for the country’s freedom.
Given that it’s open all year round, a lot of people visit from time to time. Expect to see large oaks and calming rivers as you stroll all over the area.
3. Mace Brown Museum of Natural History Viewing
Enjoy free guided tours at the Mace Brown Museum. You’ll find here thousands of fossil relics of Pleistocene mammals on display. Learn about ocean life and fossil fauna! If you’re a fan of geology, you might find this place interesting.
4. Head to the Farmers’ Markets
Check out local produce and goods at the Charleston Farmers Market. It’s open every Saturday with special holiday markets held by the end of the year. Don’t forget to visit Marion Square to check out some artworks, crafts, vegetables, and more affordable goods.
5. Checkout Summerville
Summerville is a little town with tremendous appeal, dubbed as Flower Town in the evergreens because of its stunning gardens and lawns. Explore the wonders around the square as you discover diners, art studios, parks, walking tours, and amenities.
6. Visit the Avery Research Center
The Avery Research Center welcomes approximately 3000 visitors each year, ranging from scientists and lecturers to school groups and institutions, as well as families and community members from all around the world. Tours, seminars, talks, and a spotlight on local and national talents in all forms of artistic expression are available at the Avery Research Center.
7. Discover Morris Island Lighthouse
The Morris Island Lighthouse is a lovely lighthouse on James Island’s northern tip. It is not possible to drive right up to the lighthouse. You may, however, drive as far north on Folly Beach as Ashley Avenue will take you, park, and walk a mile or two to see it from the beach.
It’s a fantastic sight to see. Because the lighthouse is surrounded by water, it is not open to tours.
8. Head on the Pitt Street Bridge
Spend a day strolling or bike riding on the modernized greenway park around the Pitt Street Bridge. You can also check out its remnants. Regarded as one of Charleston’s places for relaxation and recreation, it’s impossible not to appreciate the beauty of its transformation from an old-aged bridge into a beautiful park.
9. Stay at the Folly Beach
Many come to Folly Beach from time to time for surfing sessions or just to feel the ocean breeze. You can unwind, window shop, or just walk around the beach. You’re sure to come back for its scenic surroundings, great amenities, and activity guides.
10. Be Amazed at Rainbow Row
Among the popularly documented sights in Charleston, Rainbow Row remains very scenic with its vibrant-colored historical houses. Don’t forget to bring a camera because this place is a photographer’s dream. It is unquestionably a sight to behold, so make sure not to miss it!
The buildings are excellent examples of architectural grandeur, making Charleston an even more popular tourist attraction. These vibrant homes are seen on East Bay around Tradd and Elliot Streets, located near the Waterfront Park and what people regarded as South of Broad Street.
11. Explore the Battery
Given the number of historical spots around Charleston, the Battery is also a good spot. You’ll find a solid public walkway where you can admire the beauty of the seashore. Also, Fort Sumter’s vista is within reach. As a guarded boulevard, the Battery comes very pristinely and undeniably breathtaking.
12. Check Out White Point Garden
Right towards the southern end of the Battery, you’ll find the White Point Garden. You can find gorgeous ancient houses and enormous oaks bordering the park. Admission is free, and curbside parking is accessible along Murray Blvd’s riverside edge. Weddings and other special events are often held at this park.
13. Take a Charleston Tea Plantation Tour
The Charleston Tea Plantation is a great place to take the whole family for a day excursion. Admire the gorgeous tea fields while learning about distinctive American Classic tea.
14. Experience Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park
Memorial Waterfront Park is much more than your typical park. This place has plenty of space for family picnics, a nautical-themed playground, and soft-serve ice cream from the River Watch Cafe. This café has a 1,250-foot-long pier with great views of Charleston Harbor, where you can relax and enjoy the view.
15. Wander around King Street
King Street is an ideal location for strolling around and window shopping. You can find a lot of stores selling pretty clothes, antiques, furniture, and even interior decors.
Dubbed as the city’s main shopping street, it’s one of the most interesting roads to stroll in during afternoons. It features a lot of great buildings to sightsee, modernized facades, and ever-bustling roads. No doubt, it’s one of the prettiest streets you’ll ever see.
16. Explore The Postal Museum
The Postal Museum is dedicated to Charleston’s entire postal system and service. Old newspaper clippings, ancient seals, stamps, and other relics are well-preserved to honor every historical event in the city. If you love history, you’ll love this museum.
17. Visit the Manuscript Museum of Karpeles
The Karpeles Manuscript Museum features the country’s greatest exclusive collection of records and documents. Get a glimpse into the ancient times with the historical manuscripts, handwritten letters, and historical maps kept here. Do yourself a favor and stop by the Karpeles Library to witness the most interesting write-ups in history.
18. Visitor Education Center at Fort Sumter
Fort Sumter Visitor Center features galleries and facts about the Civil War and Fort Sumter. Also, the building has a huge veranda overlooking the waterfront where you can enjoy the view.
Details regarding the Civil Battle and the participation of Charleston and South Carolina in the conflict are answered by National Park Rangers. Generally, it’s one of the favorite places of historians to visit.
19. See the Parade of the Citadel
Certainly, you can’t miss out on the Citadel Parade. This takes place on Fridays throughout the school year. The South Carolina Corps of Cadets dress parades feature around 2,000 members parading onto Summerall Field as the Regimental Band and Pipes perform and cannons are fired. Expect a booming yet majestic display.
20. Head to the National Historic Site of Charles Pinckney
The Charles Pinckney National Historic Site illustrates the history of enslaved African Americans on South Carolina Lowcountry estates. It provides a chance to learn about the cultural context that impacted Pinckney and his contributions to the Constitution’s design. It is an essential part of comprehending the United States’ first 30 to 40 years as a fledgling nation. For history buffs, this is a must-see.
21. Wander Freely at Sullivan’s Island
Sullivan’s Island is without a question one of the nicest places to visit in Charleston, South Carolina. There are beaches for those who enjoy the quiet. Along the shore, there are no bars or restaurants. While this may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it keeps Sullivan’s Island quiet, private, and spotless.
Conclusion
We hope our list of free things to do in Charleston, SC has helped you plan your trip. There’s nothing wrong with free-pass adventures. After all, remarkable moments don’t have to be pricey.
As a woman over 50, make sure to get the most fun out of your trip, you deserve nothing less!
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