Historic Sites

Fort Sumter National Monument marks the site where the Civil War began. Families can take a ferry ride only minutes from The Cottages on Charleston Harbor to the fort, explore the historic ruins, and learn about its significant role in American history through engaging exhibits.

Located close to Boone Hall Plantation, one of Charleston’s premier historic locations. Boone Hall Plantation was founded in 1681 when Englishman Major John Boone came to Charleston and established a lucrative plantation. The gracious home on the banks of Wampacheone Creek was home to the family and descendants of Major Boone, influential players in the history of South Carolina, the colonies and the nation. 

The Old Village Historic District in Mount Pleasant features charming historic homes, quaint shops, and waterfront views. It’s perfect for leisurely walks and offers a glimpse into the area's rich history and architecture.

The Charles Pinckney National Historic Site preserves the remnants of Charles Pinckney’s coastal plantation, offering exhibits on his life and the early American Republic. It's an educational stop for families interested in history and culture.

The tallest of South Carolina's lighthouses, The Morris Island Lighthouse made the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The structure you see today is the fourth lighthouse to stand in its place, and holds a rich history. The Morris Island light house is one of the most photographed landmarks in Charleston.  

Rainbow Row offers one of the most iconic views associated with Charleston, South Carolina. It has a long history of Charleston culture, come see why so many people come every year to see this iconic spot.

The Cottages lie within a five minute drive of historic downtown and the Nathaniel Russell House. The Nathaniel Russell House Museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the mercantile elite who flourished in the late Colonial and early Federal period, the artisans and craftspeople they hired to build and adorn their opulent homes, and the enslaved men and women whose forced labor made possible their lavish lifestyles.

Constructed nearly 200 years ago, circa 1825, the Edmondston-Alston House presents a unique history of the people, both free and enslaved, who lived and labored on this property. Its collection of furniture, silver and decorative arts, largely original to those who owned the house, constitutes a rich, complex history of Charleston in the 19th century.

Commanding a magnificent view of Charleston Harbor, the Edmondston-Alston House has witnessed many historic moments in the port city’s history. One of the oldest houses along the High Battery, it withstood the American Civil War, the Earthquake of 1886, and numerous hurricanes; it has survived to share a piece of Charleston history.

One of Charleston's oldest sites, purchased in 1676 by the Drayton Family this Pre-Revolutionary War plantation features American's oldest gardens, which blooms year-round. Located only 15 miles from The Cottages on Charleston Harbor.

Middleton Place is America’s oldest landscaped gardens and home to a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Located along the Ashley River in Charleston, Middleton Place is a National Historic Landmark, historic home, research center, and historic plantation and stableyards. They focus on the contributions of the Middleton family as well as the enslaved Africans and African Americans who lived and worked here. The stories are a microcosm of United States history.

Located in the heart of historic Charleston, South Carolina, the College of Charleston is a nationally recognized public liberal arts and sciences university. Founded in 1770, the College is among the nation’s top universities for quality education, student life and affordability. Its beautiful and historic campus, combined with contemporary facilities and cutting-edge programs, attracts students from across the U.S. and around the world.

One of the nation’s oldest public markets and the cultural heart of Charleston. We are home to more than 300 vibrant entrepreneurs, and we are open every day of the year except December 25th. No matter what time of day or season you plan to visit, there is something to see, do, taste, and take home as a souvenir from the Charleston City Market!

The first fort on Sullivan's Island, constructed of palmetto logs and sand, was still incomplete when Commodore Sir Peter Parker of the Royal Navy and nine British men-of-war attacked it on June 28, 1776. After a nine-hour battle, the British ships were forced to retire. Charlestown was saved from occupation, and the fort was named in honor of its commander, Colonel William Moultrie.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is home to the USS Yorktown, offering interactive exhibits on naval history and World War II. Families can explore historic ships, a submarine, and maritime exhibits, making it an educational and exciting outing.