In April 1670, the British ship Carolina accompanied by a single-sailed sloop passed through what is today Charleston Harbor, slipped quietly into the mouth of the present-day Ashley River and dropped anchor five miles inland along the river's western shoreline. Three ships had set sail from England the year before on a perilous journey to Barbados and beyond to their ultimate destination in the Province of Carolina, a vast territory in the New World that had been claimed for His Majesty Charles II, King of England. Two of the original ships were lost, one replaced by the sloop. Of the hundreds of people who embarked on this incredible journey, only 148 made it ashore to establish "Charles Towne," the first permanent European settlement in the Carolinas.
As they set about building a fort in the wilderness to protect themselves from the Spanish and the unfriendly native inhabitants, these early settlers probably never imagined their brave actions set in motion a chain of events that changed the world. From the first primitive buildings they erected along the banks of the Ashley River arose a magnificent city that has inspired artists and musicians, scientists and engineers, revolutionaries and great thinkers.
As the history of the "Holy City" unfolds for visitors, it soon becomes evident that Charleston is a place where the present mingles easily with the Old World charm and cultural sophistication of a bygone era… a modern metropolis draped in the rich and aesthetically-pleasing cloak of yesteryear. Clearly, America's most historic city is a progressive one, offering something of interest to every traveler passing through.
For visitors hoping to discover their past amidst the city's colorful centuries-old tapestry, there are any number of tours and attractions throughout the city and its surrounding areas. Bus, boat, carriage and walking adventures offer the perfect foundation for insight into Charleston's past. Of course, touring museums, historic homes, plantations and other historic sites also helps reveal even more of the past.
In 1707, Charleston became the home of Henrietta Dering Johnston, America's first woman artist. In addition to being the first professional female artist in the American colonies, Johnston was also the first artist in the colonies to work primarily with pastels. Since those early days, art has been an integral part of Charleston's rich culture. In fact, the city has, in recent years, become one of the top art destinations in the nation, inviting visitors to shop the many art galleries offering paintings and fine art photography by artists of local, national and international renown.
An exploration of the city's history reveals that in 1736, a group of local actors performed George Farquhar's "The Recruiting Officer" at the New Theatre, the first building in the country designed solely for theatrical purposes. Today, the Dock Street Theatre, located on Church Street, occupies the remodeled New Theatre building. Through the years, the city's residents remained loyal to the performing arts, supporting theatrical productions at the Dock Street Theatre, as well as at other venues throughout the city. Performances also include opera, ballet and symphony, as well as those by the best present-day actors and musicians.
Those who love to shop need to look no further than Charleston for the ultimate retailing experience. The city and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of shopping opportunities, from downtown shops to outlet malls to beautiful waterfront centers, and a variety of shopping experiences in between. Gifts to take home abound, but the more serious shoppers especially love the quaint antiques shops, upscale home furnishing stores, and high fashion boutiques.
Visitors to Charleston can't help themselves when it comes to sampling the extraordinary cuisine, a fare that rivals any in the nation, but served up Lowcountry-style. Like the rest of Charleston's culture, the type of food served in area restaurants resulted from the region's unique combination of influences. So not only can visitors enjoy the region's own style, but any type of food imaginable in any dining venue imaginable.
After all that eating, visitors may be looking for some outside activity. The area is ideal for those craving the great outdoors. Charleston draws hunters, fly-fishermen, and paddlers from all over the world to its vast expanses of uncut woodlands, wetlands and pristine waterways. While the avid golfer can literally play a different world-class course each day of his/her stay here.
The spectator sports season in Charleston is year-round, with the professional baseball season melting into the professional soccer, and then into professional ice hockey. All three of the region's beloved teams play in first-rate facilities, the kind spectators appreciate for their comfort, amenities, and views of the games. For a relaxing afternoon in the sun, visitors can take advantage of one the many opportunities offered through its remarkable park system.
Is it any wonder that visitors to Charleston often turn into residents? The warm climate, friendly natives and innumerable lifestyle options, combined with the region's many other assets makes Charleston one of the best places in the nation to live, work and play. During this trip to Charleston, maybe you'll discover your next perfect life.
Learn about how you can own a piece of history or invest in waterfront and vacation property in Charleston and the Lowcountry. Read our Real Estate section.
Luxury real estate sales on Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Johns Island, Wadmalaw and the surrounding Charleston area. A leader in luxury real estate sales and vacation rentals for almost three decades. Seasonal vacation rentals or year-round luxury properties for South Carolina coastal living. Highly personalized service, a true commitment to patient, comprehensive representation is our priority.
Bringing some of the finest artists in their fields together under one roof, the Martin Gallery is a soaring space filled with the exquisite color and texture of oils, acrylics, bronzes, marbles, terra-cottas and richly hued glass. The eclectic art is representative of more than thirty nationally and internationally renowned artists. Located at 18 Broad Street on the corner of State Street in the Grand Salon of the historic People’s Building.
A refined French café and bar offering the best in classic Brasserie cuisine. Culinary team creations pay homage to classic brasserie cuisine that inspired vehemently loyal Parisians. Indoor/outdoor patio seating, cocktails and a predominantly French wine list blended with a selection of our steward's favorites. Open late. Upstairs offers catering for your meeting or party. Don't miss 39 Rue de Jean Sunday Brunch.
In April 1670, the British ship Carolina accompanied by a single-sailed sloop passed through what is today Charleston Harbor, slipped quietly into the mouth of the present-day Ashley River and dropped anchor five miles inland along the river's western shoreline. Three ships had set sail from England the year before on a perilous journey to Barbados and beyond to their ultimate destination in the Province of Carolina, a vast territory in the New World that had been claimed for His Majesty Charles II, King of England. Two of the original ships were lost, one replaced by the sloop. Of the hundreds of people who embarked on this incredible journey, only 148 made it ashore to establish "Charles Towne," the first permanent European settlement in the Carolinas.
In 1707, Charleston became the home of Henrietta Dering Johnston, America's first woman artist. In addition to being the first professional female artist in the American colonies, Johnston was also the first artist in the colonies to work primarily with pastels. Since those early days, art has been an integral part of Charleston's rich culture. In fact, the city has, in recent years, become one of the top art destinations in the nation, inviting visitors to shop the many art galleries offering paintings and fine art photography by artists of local, national and international renown.
After all that eating, visitors may be looking for some outside activity. The area is ideal for those craving the great outdoors. Charleston draws hunters, fly-fishermen, and paddlers from all over the world to its vast expanses of uncut woodlands, wetlands and pristine waterways. While the avid golfer can literally play a different world-class course each day of his/her stay here. 
Luxury real estate sales on Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Johns Island, Wadmalaw and the surrounding Charleston area. A leader in luxury real estate sales and vacation rentals for almost three decades. Seasonal vacation rentals or year-round luxury properties for South Carolina coastal living. Highly personalized service, a true commitment to patient, comprehensive representation is our priority.
Bringing some of the finest artists in their fields together under one roof, the Martin Gallery is a soaring space filled with the exquisite color and texture of oils, acrylics, bronzes, marbles, terra-cottas and richly hued glass. The eclectic art is representative of more than thirty nationally and internationally renowned artists. Located at 18 Broad Street on the corner of State Street in the Grand Salon of the historic People’s Building. 
A refined French café and bar offering the best in classic Brasserie cuisine. Culinary team creations pay homage to classic brasserie cuisine that inspired vehemently loyal Parisians. Indoor/outdoor patio seating, cocktails and a predominantly French wine list blended with a selection of our steward's favorites. Open late. Upstairs offers catering for your meeting or party. Don't miss 39 Rue de Jean Sunday Brunch.
