Things to Do in Charleston in the Winter
If you plan on visiting Charleston, South Carolina in the winter, then you’re in luck. Not only is there plenty to do in this gorgeous city in the winter, you’ll actually get to experience a unique side of Charleston that the summer tourists don’t get to see! So whether you plan on heading up for a long family vacation or want to find something to do during downtime on a business trip, take a look at these fun things to do in Charleston, SC in the winter.
Head to the Festival of Lights
If you’ll be around in early January, you’ll definitely want to check out the famous Annual Festival of Lights. The Annual Festival of Lights is a celebration featuring 2 million lights, along with fountain displays, lit-up walking trails, and even family-friendly attractions like s’mores roasts and a traditional carousel. This sparkling festival has been going on for decades and is something you won’t want to miss if you’re in the city before it ends during the first week in January.
Put on Your Bowling Shoes
Who doesn’t love a fun night out at the bowling alley? Charleston is home to a great retro bowling alley–aptly named “The Alley!”–which is popular among young and old alike. The Alley is also home to a full bar and some tasty fare, so you can make an evening out of it while you dust off the bowling shoes and plan the perfect strike. The Alley is kid-friendly, so this makes a great family destination!
Indulge in Charleston Restaurant Week
Charleston Restaurant Week is typically held for 2 weeks in the middle of January, and if you’re in the city during this foodie-friendly event, then you should definitely participate in order to get a taste of some of the best food in the region. Restaurant Week has all sorts of special events and discounts every year, so be sure to check the online guide to see what’s going on–and what’s being cooked!
Experience the Old Powder Magazine Museum
If you’re in the mood to head inside for something historical, then head over to the Old Powder Magazine. It is actually the oldest government building in the entire state, since it was built in 1713, though it has been used for everything from an arsenal to a print shop to a wine cellar, and everything in between. Today, it functions as a museum dedicated to colonial American military history. Even children will enjoy learning about how this building was once used during the Revolutionary War to defend against British forces.
Go to the City Market
The Charleston City Market is one of the most popular places in the city, and for good reason: it’s a historic market simply stuffed with local vendors, offering everything you could ever imagine. The city market is typically open during the day, but you can also take advantage of late hours on Fridays and Saturdays, when they’re open well into the evening. Shopping here in the winter is a special treat since the crowds are usually thinned out, which means you may be able to get better deals and take in more of the historic space.
Ride in a Carriage
Carriage tours are always a popular treat in Charleston. They are a quaint and interesting way to see the city, especially in the winter when it’s not as crowded with tourists and visitors. Carriage tours typically focus on Charleston’s history, so this is definitely a great choice if you want to learn more about the city’s illustrious past.
Get Ready to Walk
If you’re a nature lover or have kids that are always wanting to explore, you definitely need to head out to the Caw Caw Interpretive Center. The Caw Caw Interpretive Center is a wildlife preserve with over 6 miles of walking trails with interactive exhibits, elevated walkways through wetlands, and much more. You’ll see wildlife, plant life, and learn something about Charleston’s wilder (literally!) side in the process. And due to the mild winter weather that Charleston typically experiences, you won’t be sweating up a storm after a mile or two.
Stay in a Palace
For a luxury experience during a winter stay, book a hotel at the Belmond Charleston Palace. This luxury hotel has stunning rooms, great service, and is located in the heart of Charleston’s most popular attractions, shops, restaurants, and city life. Best of all, if you’re visiting during the winter, the area is likely to still be lit up with gorgeous twinkle lights, adding an air of extra dazzle to the Palace.
Explore Battery & White Park
Whether you’re with family, your spouse, or are traveling alone, you simply cannot visit Charleston–in January, March, or any month!–without exploring Battery & White Park for at least a few hours. Battery & White Park features gardens, a waterfront view, and is a popular destination for everything from morning exercise to romantic strolls. The park is near various old homes and luxury mansions, so if you’re an architecture lover, you will definitely find something to appreciate while walking around this popular attraction. If you’re not a fan of colder Charleston mornings, make sure to head out in the afternoon when temperatures have warmed up a bit.
