Just 85 miles from Myrtle Beach sits the beautiful and historic city of Charleston. With Charleston's proximity to Myrtle Beach as well as its many exciting attractions and significant points of interest, Charleston is the perfect destination for a fun day trip!
The Aquarium Wharf in Charleston is a great way to start the day in this beautiful city. Adults and kids alike will enjoy learning about the aquatic life in the area through the various exhibits and activities at the Aquarium Wharf. At the Mountain Forest Gallery, you will enjoy a full sensory experience of what it is like to live in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Piedmont Exhibit gives you an up-close look the life process of local fish. The Salt Marsh Aviary takes you inside the fragile local ecosystem of the swamp lands to explore the challenges present today. This interesting aquarium is a great way to learn more about the living world around you.
Explore centuries of our country's military history with a visit to the American Military Museum. This museum boasts an amazing collection of artifacts and memorabilia from throughout American history, including guns, helmets, uniforms, swords, flags, and more from all branches of the military. One of the highlights of the museum is the elaborate uniform display that walks you through uniforms our soldiers have worn from the country's early days through modern times.
Fort Sumter marks the site of the first battle in the Civil War. The Fort Sumter National Monument bears this historical distinction as the site of an event that changed our country's course in history. You can access the national monument today via two ferry departure sites. Once you arrive at Fort Sumter, you will find interpretive exhibits about this bloody and momentous battle as well as what life was like in the mid 19th century.
While you are in Charleston, you will want to make plans to hit the water with a relaxing ocean cruise. The Charleston Harbor Day and Sunset Sailing Tours gives you your choice of a daytime cruise or a beautiful sunset cruise. Both cruise experiences are two hours long and take place on the Schooner Pride, a lovely vessel equipped with modern comforts. On the cruise, you can enjoy spectacular views of the coastline, including 18th and 19th century buildings. You will also have the chance to view wildlife in the area, including pelicans and dolphins.
Cap off the perfect day of sightseeing in Charleston with a fine dinner. Circa 1886 sits behind the Wentworth Mansion and offers a five star dining experience. With the restaurant committed to using only the freshest seafood and produce, the menu changes seasonally. The dress code at Circa 1886 is business casual; shorts, jeans, t-shirts and tennis shoes are not permitted. You can also enjoy a fine dining experience at Charleston grille. This popular restaurant serves delicious Low Country cuisine with a distinctive French flair. While you dine on dishes featuring rabbit, oysters, fish, duck, and more, you can enjoy live jazz music and an extensive wine list with over 1,300 choices.
Enjoy your fabulous day of sightseeing in Charleston with a day trip from Myrtle Beach!