Top Rated Attractions in Charleston

Built over the Cooper River in South Carolina, Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, connects Charleston to Mount Pleasant. This eight lane bridge was opened to public in 2005 and was designed by Parsons Brinckerhoff. Also known as the as the New Cooper River Bridge, it holds the annual USA Track & Field Cooper River Bridge Run of 6.21 miles (10 kilometres). The run begins from Mount Pleasant to end at Charleston at Marion Square.

Theatre 99 is a place to blow up laughing. With a large stage and a capacity to seat about 125 people, the Theatre has become a place to end the day with a nice hearty laugh. After all who doesn't like comedy? The Theatre hosts a number of different shows, specializing in improv comedy. Watch out for The Have Nots, who perform along with other hilarious members of the Theatre 99. Theatre 99 is conveniently located above the Bicycle Shoppe. With regards admission they are very strict. Arrive 30 minutes before the show or else your reservations are sold to the waiting list people. So be on time to make the most of the laugh riot.

Charleston is steeped in history and culture, and the Dock Street Theatre is proof of this. Established in 1736, it is one of the first public theaters in the country. It is an example of Antebellum architecture replete with wrought-iron railings and splendid archways. The building was renovated in the 1930s to restore its 18th-century charm, which attracts throngs of photo-taking architecture enthusiasts. Now host to the Charleston Stage Company, this renowned professional group organizes an eclectic schedule of cultural events, concerts, productions and performing arts through the year, which are a big draw among locals and tourists alike.

Middleton Place is an 18th Century rice plantation and National Historic Landmark comprising 65 acres (26 hectares) of America’s oldest landscaped Gardens, the Middleton Place House Museum and the Plantation Stableyards. The Gardens reflect the elegant symmetry of 17th Century European design. Sculpted terraces, parterres and reflecting pools full of swans are highlights of their intricate design. Rare camellias bloom in the winter, while vibrant azaleas blanket the hillside above the Rice Mill Pond in the spring. Tickets for house tours are separate from the general admission fee.

Seated on a 200-acre (81-hectare) island at the entrance to Charleston Harbor, this former coastal fortification is augmented by the clear waters of the deep blue sea. The site of two prominent battles of the American Civil War, this seaside fort commands much historical significance. Fort Sumter had been under construction for more than 30 years in the December of 1860 when Major Robert Anderson relocated his troops there in the middle of the night from Fort Moultrie. On April 12, 1861, the first shot of the Civil War was fired on the Fort by Confederate troops. Following 34 hours of fighting, Major Anderson surrendered to the attacking troops. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the fort complex now includes the site of Fort Moultrie, a visitor center and the fort itself. Contrasted by rolling green fields below, the visitor center is complete with military remnants and exhibits chronicling the activities of the fort during its heyday, and the indelible role it played during the course of the battle.

This amazing stadium is the home of the RiverDogs, Charleston's own minor league baseball team. It was named after avid baseball fan and former mayor of Charleston, the Honorable Joseph P Riley, Junior. Located on the Citadel, and affectionately called 'The Joe', this state-of-the-art baseball venue can seat 6000. It offers a variety of delicious ball park food to enjoy while you take in a great game. Check website for events, times and ticket information.