Free & Cheap Things to Do in Charleston, SC

  • The list below includes 118 free or cheap things to do in or near Charleston, South Carolina, including 54 different types of inexpensive activities like Walking Tours, History Museums, Colleges & Universities and Gardens.
  • From College of Charleston to Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Charleston and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, Johns Island and Summerville.
  • The list below includes 118 free or cheap things to do in or near Charleston, South Carolina, including 54 different types of inexpensive activities like Walking Tours, History Museums, Colleges & Universities and Gardens.
  • From College of Charleston to Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Charleston and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, Johns Island and Summerville.
Showing 1-10 of 167
0.0 Miles
Skilled guides reveal Charleston’s hidden past during walking tours
0.6 Miles
97% 521 votes
Colleges & Universities 66 George Street, Charleston, SC MoreLess Info
The College of Charleston is the thirteenth-oldest academic institution in the United States. While the university was previously a liberal arts college, it now operates as a full university that offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of fields.
2.1 Miles
94% 3054 votes
Bridges Charleston, SC MoreLess Info
Charleston's Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is the sole land passage between the city and Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. It is 1,546 feet long and has eight lanes. At its highest point, the bridge soars 575 feet above the water.
0.4 Miles
96% 3931 votes
Parks 1 Vendue, Charleston, SC 29401 MoreLess Info
Beautiful Charleston Waterfront Park is a municipal park in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. Located near The Docks, a popular dolphin-watching spot, Charleston Waterfront Park features huge fountains, comfortable benches and shady trees.
2.1 Miles
93% 506 votes
Colleges & Universities Moultrie St. and Elmwood Ave., Charleston, SC MoreLess Info
The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina is one of the six senior military academic institutions in the United States and offers nineteen majors and thirty-five minors for its students to pursue. The location's athletic programs play in the Southern Conference of Division I.
0.5 Miles
93% 1644 votes
Gardens East Battery & Murray Blvd., Charleston, SC 29401 MoreLess Info
Charleston's Battery & White Point Gardens has been open to the public since shortly before the start of the Civil War. Visitors enjoy brilliant views of the Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter. This attraction is best visited during warm, dry weather.
11.2 Miles
81% 3968 votes
Gardens 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414 MoreLess Info
Charleston, South Carolina is home to the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. The huge plantation features the city's largest formal garden. The house is also available for docent-guided tours. It is a particularly important attraction for Civil War buffs.
10.7 Miles
88% 1504 votes
Historic Homes 3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414 MoreLess Info
Charleston, South Carolina's Drayton Hall is a historic landmark and former palatial residence. One of the oldest buildings in Charleston, Drayton Hall was erected before the Revolutionary War. It has undergone repairs when necessary, but retains its original Colonial appearance.
14.9 Miles
88% 2755 votes
Historic Sites 4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414 MoreLess Info
The magnolia-scented atmosphere at Charleston's Middleton Place invites visitors to linger and enjoy the view of the oldest sculptured gardens in the United States. Middleton Place is also home to the historic Rice Mill Pond.
0.3 Miles
76% 583 votes
Flea Markets Charleston, SC MoreLess Info
Market Square is a street market that features vendors selling souvenir art works and jewelry items. Guests of this site, which offers horse-drawn ride opportunities to its guests, can also dine at on of the location's restaurants.
0.1 Miles
90% 10 votes
Historic Homes 54 Queen Street, Charleston, SC 29401 MoreLess Info
Home to one of the finest furniture craftsman of the 18th century, the Thomas Elfe House is filled with beautiful furniture and decorations. The house remains almost entirely in its original state and is equipped with authentic tools and accents.
Showing 1-10 of 167
HAVE SUGGESTIONS FOR COOL AND INTERESTING THINGS TO DO IN THE Charleston AREA?
ADD A NEW ATTRACTION TO TRIPBUZZ!