As a Southern, coastal city, Charleston is known to have gorgeous weather most of the year, but in the summer we can usually count on an afternoon rain storm to cool off those hot days. If you’ve been caught in the rain during your trip to Charleston, don’t let soggy weather get you down. One wonderful thing about the city of Charleston is the countless activities to do and landmarks to see, all with their own flavor of the Holy City. With as many indoor activities as there are outdoor, you are sure to find something to help you get through a rain day in Charleston without missing out on the fun. Here are a few of our favorites:
The Charleston Museum – Founded in 1773, this museum is recognized as “America’s First Museum” and its home is right here in Charleston! The museum features both permanent and rotating exhibits that highlight the history of our beautiful city. Kidstory, a permanent hands-on exhibit, is a great outlet for kids to witness and experience the history of Charleston come to life!
South Carolina Aquarium – Home to a sea turtle rehabilitation hospital and a rare albino alligator, the aquarium is not an activity to skip out on! Providing tons of enjoyment for kids and adults alike, visitors can feed the stingrays in “The Shallows” and observe the amazing wildlife in their notable two-story, 385,000-gallon “Great Ocean Tank.” Keep an eye on their calendar for a little grown up fun with their after-hours events!
Gibbes Museum of Art – As Charleston’s only visual arts museum, this is THE place to see the works of local and regional artists. With a free and interactive first floor (in addition to the ticketed second and third floors), you can admire artwork dating back to the eighteenth century up to present day. Inside, guests can stop by The Daily café on their way out for a quick bite to eat.
USS Yorktown – This World War II aircraft carrier has become an iconic part of the Charleston harbor skyline. Offering several different tours for guests to choose from, visitors can learn about the ships significance, the city’s naval history, and this part of our nation’s history while exploring this nautical playground.
The Alley – This not-so-typical bowling alley is a “one-stop entertainment hub” harboring eight lanes, three bars, and a full kitchen. During the day, this is a great place to take the family for some food and fun to escape the rain. When night comes, The Alley is a great place to keep the night alive for the adults as it becomes ages 21 and up after 9pm with music and arcade games all around.
Local Bus Tours – With numerous touring companies, each offering a wide range of tours, visitors can take in the city and surrounding areas without having to deal with getting wet! Some of the companies we recommend would be the Pineapple Tour Group, Adventure Sightseeing, and Gray Line of Charleston, each with certified tour guides to ensure visitors have the best experience possible.
Historic Home Tours – Since Charleston is loaded with so much history, why not visit our exquisite homes that tell the stories for themselves? The most popular historic homes in this area include the Joseph Manigault House, the Heyward-Washington House, the Nathaniel Russell House, the Aiken-Rhett House, and the Edmondston-Alston House. Each home brings the past into the present and allows for onlookers to admire the beauty from where Charleston’s unique architecture originated.
Though Charleston is more often sunny than it is rainy, its good to have a plan on a wet day. If you’re headed out during one of the rainy afternoons, make sure you pack your duck boots and an umbrella. Luckily any of our downtown luxury rentals are close enough to keep you dry and out of the rain and our Concierge team is here to reserve tickets or restaurant times for you at any of these local spots!