Charleston
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International African American Museum
The International African American Museum tells the unvarnished stories of the African American experience across generations, the trauma and triumph that gave rise to a resilient people. Engage with history through transformative storytelling, remarkable artifacts and exhibitions, and a uniquely impactful power of place. Explore our wide-ranging exhibitions that tell the story of how Africans and African Americans—through their labor, resistance, and ingenuity—have shaped every aspect of our world. This story of trauma and triumph includes our publicly accessible African Ancestors Memorial Gardens and the deliberate, definitive design of our building. Our permanent exhibitions feature more than 150 historical objects, more than 30 works of art, nearly 50 films and digital interactive experiences that bring history to life, framed by a gateway to the Atlantic Ocean. Plan Your Visit Purchase Tickets MUSEUM HOURS Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am to 5pm. Last entry time at 4pm. Closed Monday. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Charleston Tea Garden
Located on Wadmalaw Island in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, the Charleston Tea Garden is just a few miles south of historic Charleston. Wadmalaw, one of the area’s most untouched islands, was first claimed for England in 1666 by Captain Robert Sanford. Today, it remains protected from commercial development, preserving its natural beauty. The island’s only connection to the mainland is a single bridge over Church Creek, making it a truly special destination. With its sandy soil, subtropical climate, and abundant rainfall, Wadmalaw provides the perfect environment for growing Camellia Sinensis, the tea plant used for both black and green teas. The Charleston Tea Garden spans 127 acres and cultivates over 320 varieties, producing nine unique flavors, including the beloved American Classic Tea—the only tea in the world made entirely from U.S.-grown leaves. Visitor Information Shop
The Preservation Society of Charleston
America’s 1st grassroots preservationists Working with residents, leaders, & professionals for planning and preservation that betters our city. In 1920, one determined woman, Susan Pringle Frost, rallied her neighbors and fought so that a house could escape demolition. In doing so, she created the preservation movement by focusing on education and advocacy, and harnessing the passion of the people who call Charleston home. The stand she took inspired the creation of the first grassroots preservation organization in the nation, the Preservation Society of Charleston. It has fueled every position we have taken for the citizens of Charleston. In 100 years of tireless work, we have discovered that the most effective way to ensure that Charleston retains its livability and authenticity is to fight for informed, community-first decisions. Charleston is changing, but it is not lost. Preservation today is about honoring the living city — one that evolves to support the needs of the people who live and work here, while maintaining the elements that make it special. As preservationists, the PSC serves as a thought-leader and community organizer, ensuring that the lessons of the past inform the future of our city. --- Our Impact Areas Growth and Development Living with Water * Managing Tourism --- Our Events and Tours See our calendar
Seewee Restaurant
See Wee has been a neighborhood staple since 1993, focusing on Southern home cooking made with love. The building was originally a general store, built in the 1920s, and the vibe and ambiance is definitely here! Everything is locally sourced to give back to the community. Come grab some Simply Good Food, and check out the Events page for dates when we have live music on our beautiful patio. The only days we close are Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas!
The Charleston Museum
Mission Statement To educate Charleston area residents and visitors about the natural and cultural history of the South Carolina Lowcountry through collections, exhibitions, preservation, conservation, research and related programming. About Us Founded in 1773, The Charleston Museum, America's First Museum, has been discovering, preserving, interpreting, celebrating, and sharing ever since. Our collections, exhibitions, educational programs, and events are designed to inspire curiosity and conversation - about the South Carolina Lowcountry - and the stories that make us who we are. Inspired in part by the creation of the British Museum, the Museum was established by the Charleston Library Society on the eve of the American Revolution and its early history was characterized by association with distinguished South Carolinians and scientific figures including Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Reverend John Bachman and John J. Audubon. The Museum continued to develop prominent collections of ethnological and zoological specimens, which Harvard scientist Louis Aggasiz declared in 1852 to be among the finest in America. Operations were temporarily suspended due to the Civil War, but began again shortly afterward. Progressively acquired since the late 18th century, the Museum's collections now represent the most comprehensive assemblage of South Carolina materials in the nation. Focusing on the South Carolina Lowcountry, modern collecting emphases include natural history, historical material culture and both documentary and photographic resources. --- Visit our Historic Houses Joseph Manigault House Heyward-Washington House --- Museum Information Events
Half-Moon Outfitters
Half-Moon Outfitters serves South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas. Founded in 1993 in downtown Charleston, Half-Moon Outfitters thrives on a boutique selection of the best the Outdoor Industry has to offer. Half-Moon Outfitters prides itself on being first to the dance on the new, innovative and most interesting products. Half Moon Outfitters cares deeply about a service model that is meaningful to employees, vendors and most importantly to the consumer. !Half-Moon Outfitters on King Street * Read more of our story See our upcoming events Featured Brands We Carry - Altra - Arc'Teryx - Birkenstock - Blundstone - Cotopaxi - Danner - Darn Tough - Free Fly - Garmin - Howler Brothers - Keen - Marsh Wear Browse our other collections HERE
Angel Oak Tree
The Angel Oak’s dimensions are nothing short of extraordinary. The tree measures an impressive 28 feet (8.5 meters) in circumference, a testament to its age and the centuries of growth it has experienced. Its branches stretch outwards to cover an area of approximately 17,200 square feet (1,600 square meters), providing a vast canopy of shade that has sheltered countless visitors over the years. Perhaps the most awe-inspiring feature of this tree is the span of its longest branch, which reaches a staggering 187 feet from tip to tip. The sheer scale of the Angel Oak is a reminder of the incredible potential for growth in nature, given time and favorable conditions. While the Angel Oak’s size is universally admired, its age is a subject of considerable debate. Some enthusiasts and historians claim that the tree could be as old as 1,500 years, suggesting that it has witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations, the transformation of landscapes, and the evolution of the environment around it. However, most experts tend to favor a more conservative estimate, placing the tree’s age between 400 and 500 years.
Stono Market and Tomato Shed Cafe
Stono Market & Tomato Shed Café is proudly locally owned and operated, dedicated to exceeding expectations through exceptional customer service and a thoughtful selection of high-quality foods and locally made goods. In addition to our café, the Stono Market offers a variety of prepared and take-home items including sauces, stone-ground grits, local honey, jellies, jams, handmade crafts, gifts, and more — many sourced from local makers and producers. Located beneath a beautiful canopy of live oaks along the scenic road connecting U.S. 17 to Kiawah and Seabrook Islands, Stono Market and Tomato Shed Cafe has become a favorite stop for both locals and visitors. Our tomato shed restaurant is especially bustling during the spring and summer months, when the Lowcountry is at its best.
Second State Coffee
We are a small, locally owned coffee roastery and multi-location cafe. We began operation in 2012 on Beaufain St in downtown Charleston, SC. Everyday we continue to grow and strive to reach our next level - our second state. Our coffees and our products should be just as approachable and fun as they are pleasing. Founded on principals of craftsmanship and hospitality, we strive to source, roast, and serve the best coffees, education, and cafe experiences. - pushing ourselves to reach our highest potential, a never ending 'second state' Why Second State? World Class Coffees We source traceable, high-quality beans from around the world and roast them to perfection in small batches to showcase each lot's unique character. Skilled Baristas Our team receives extensive coffee knowledge training and crafts every single beverage with a high level of detail and precision. Unforgettable Service Our focus spans beyond tasty coffee. We are committed to excellent experiences, thoughtful hospitality, and authentic connection.
Coastal Expeditions
Since 1992, we’ve been guiding people into the wild beauty of the South Carolina coast—by kayak, paddleboard, and boat—with the belief that meaningful experiences in nature change us for the better. As naturalists, storytellers, and locals, we love sharing what we know about this place: its tides and trails, its wildlife and history, its hidden corners and open skies. From Cape Romain to Beaufort, our waterside outposts connect people to the Lowcountry’s creeks, estuaries, and barrier islands. We’re here to make the outdoors feel close, accessible, and unforgettable. You Haven’t Seen the Lowcountry Until You’ve Seen It By Water Explore Our Locations - Shem Creek - Kiawah River - Bulls Island - Beaufort and St. Helena Island - Blackwater
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