What to Do On a Rainy Day in Charleston

 
Rainy Day in Charleston
 
 

Charleston is known for its year round sunshine and beautiful weather, but what if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate? If you run into a bit of rain while visiting the holy city, don’t panic! There are still plenty of things to do and sites to see. As a Charleston resident, I have you covered with your best options for a rainy day. Check out my recommendations below!

Table of Contents

Go to a Brewery

Baker & Brewer

Like many cities around the US, micro-breweries are becoming increasingly popular in Charleston. There are several breweries that have been around for quite some time, but new options are popping up every day. If ambiance is important to you, go to Revelry brewing in North Charleston. If you’d like to combine drinks with a bite to eat, check out Holy City’s extensive beer selection at Baker & Brewer. Staying in the Mount Pleasant area? Visit Westbrook, Two Blokes, and Ghost Monkey Brewing. They are all located within minutes of each other. And last but not least, if you’re in the West Ashley area, make a stop at Charles Towne Fermentory. They brew my favorite beer in Charleston.

Reveltry Brewing
King Street

If you’re not a big beer drinker, two other options are Hire Wire Distillery and Firefly Distillery. Both offer tours that end with a tasting of their best selling liquors. And if wine is your drink of choice, you don’t want to miss Vintage. The aesthetic makes you feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the 1950s. 

Shop on King Street

King Street

King Street, spanning from Broad Street to Calhoun, is teeming with cute shops and local boutiques. You’ll find everything from high-end retailers to antique stores. 

King Street
King Street

Although it’s outdoors, all the stores on King are close together so bad weather shouldn’t be a deterrent. Also, King Street is home to quintessential Charleston architecture so you’ll still get a taste of the city’s southern charm. Who says you can’t shop and be a tourist at the same time?

Visit a Historic Home

Calhoun Mansion

Charleston has no shortage of historic homes, but there are only a few open to visitors. If you’re wondering what the inside of one of these gorgeous mansions looks like, consider going on a home tour. 

Charleston Garden
Calhoun Mansion

Your best options are the Nathaniel Russell House, Aiken-Rhett House, Edmondston-Alston House, and Calhoun Mansion. The insides of the first three are traditionally decorated so you can get a feel for what the homes looked like in their prime. Calhoun Mansion is a little more unique. It’s the largest single family residence in historic Charleston and has had several different occupants since it was built in 1875. Now privately owned, every inch of the house has been filled with antiques from all over the world. It’s an assault to the eyes, but in the best way possible.

Go to the Aquarium

South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is small, but interesting. If you have children, it’s a great option that the whole family can enjoy. The facilities are well maintained and attractive, the staff is helpful, and the animals are absolutely adorable. My favorite exhibit is hands down the Sea Turtle Care Center.

Catch a Show

Although Charleston is a fairly small city, it’s a common stop for comedians and musicians on tour. Check out who’s in town by checking out the line up at the Coliseum, Charleston Music Hall, and Charleston Pour House. You might be surprised by the options. 

We also have several shows based in the city year round including Theatre 99, Charleston's home for improv comedy.

Explore the USS Yorktown

USS Yorktown

If you’re interested in World War II, consider visiting the USS Yorktown. The aircraft carrier was commissioned on April 15, 1943 and played a major role in the war. The famous “Fighting Lady” was part of the Pacific offensive that began in late 1943 and ended with the defeat of Japan in 1945. In 1975, the historic ship was moved to Charleston to become the centerpiece of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

USS Yorktown

Not that into history? Consider grabbing a drink at the Charleston Harbor Fish House instead. The covered deck offers an excellent view of the USS Yorktown set against the background of Charleston harbor. 

Walk the Historic District

Historic District

If it’s pouring out, walking around downtown Charleston may not be the best option. However, rain showers in Charleston tend to be sporadic. It might work out in your favor to walk the historic district on a drizzly day. Crowds tend to thin out and everything looks a little more romantic. So, grab your umbrella and start exploring!

Grab a Bite to Eat

Leon's Oyster Shop

Bad weather doesn’t get in the way of fine dining. Charleston has some of the best restaurants in the country so when all else fails, go out to eat! Around the city, you can find everything from fresh seafood to authentic French cuisine. Below, I’ve suggested a few of my favorite restaurants. 

Magnolias: Magnolia’s has the best southern food around and great seafood. It’s located on East Bay so it’s the perfect stopping point after a morning of downtown exploration. 

167Raw: 167Raw has amazing oysters and fish tacos. It's very small so you may not get a table right away. It’s worth the wait!

Husk: Husk is a really popular restaurant that books out weeks in advance. I would recommend going for lunch and grabbing a seat in their bar instead of their formal dining area (they are two separate buildings). Get the burger and thank me later. 

Obstinate Daughter: Obstinate Daughter has tasty small plates, great pizza, and the best cocktails around. It’s on Sullivans Island so it’s probably not worth making the trip unless you’re in the area.

Leon's Oyster Shop: If you’re looking for a trendy restaurant with endless Instagram opportunities, Leon’s is it. It’s a laid back place offering everything from oysters on the halfshell to fried chicken sandwiches. Their frozen gin and tonics cannot be missed. 

Chez Nous: Chez Nous is a small, romantic restaurant that is inside a historic Charleston single house. It’s the perfect place for special occasions. 

Sorghum and Salt: If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, try Sorghum and Salt. They have a different menu every day and use only the freshest ingredients. 

The Grocery: The Grocery offers a little bit of everything - seafood, salads, small plates, and more. The food and ambience make for an unforgettable dining experience. 

Chubby Fish: Chubby Fish is a trendy seafood restaurant that is fairly new to the Charleston area. Their dishes are unique and their wine selection is top notch. 

Halls Chophouse: If you’re looking for a mouth-watering steak and unbelievable service, look no further than Halls Chophouse. Their sides are all amazing, especially the brussel sprouts!

College of Charleston

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Kolby Tallentire

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My name is Kolby Tallentire and I’m the creator of Tallentire Travels. This site formed out of my unending love of travel. My goal is to bring you the most unique and affordable travel recommendations for every destination. Learn More

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North AmericaKolby TallentireCharleston, Rainy Day1 Comment