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Road Trip Reviews: Charleston’s southern charm

Rylee Hahn, Journalist • February 11, 2026

If you are plan a soon vacation, Charleston will be a fun adventure.

I love to travel and have been to many different states and countries. One of the top places I have travelled to would have to be Charleston, South Carolina. The city provides many different activities for countless occasions throughout the year. From its historic downtown streets and beautiful views, to its rich culture, and food cuisines, it’s a beautiful place. No matter your interests, Charleston has something for you. Visitors can tour historic homes along Rainbow Row, explore King Street, see stunning views on the Mount Pleasant Pier, and many more activities.

Rainbow Row is widely known for its pastel-colored historic homes. It is located along the Battery, which has an oceanfront view. There are historic houses who were often owned by merchants, slaveholders, ship owners, or even political figures. Some of the homes are privately owned and you will not be able to see inside. Though, you are able to go inside and view many other historic houses that being shown to the public to educate people on the past history in those homes. I love to visit Rainbow Row whenever I am visiting because it is so beautiful. I took some of my senior photos there, and I couldn’t be happier.

Colorful historic homes line a quiet sidewalk in downtown Charleston.(Rylee Hahn)

A quiet cobblestone street sits between historic homes in Charleston.(Rylee Hahn)

Historic homes line a Charleston street under a bright, clear sky.(Rylee Hahn)

When visiting Charleston, South Carolina, King Street is a must. It is the middle of the city and is full of history and so many different things to do. From popular stores, to unique local boutiques. King Street is also lined with restaurants, and historic buildings making your shopping experience more enjoyable. I love going shopping on King Street because there are many different shops and restaurants for everyone. I also love the atmosphere when I am there because it is so full of life.

Cars drive through King Street on a busy afternoon.(Rylee Hahn)

People stroll past busy shops lining Charleston’s historic King Street.(Rylee Hahn)

Visitors explore Charleston’s King Street filled with shops and history.(Rylee Hahn)

The city market in Charleston is a huge hit. It is located downtown Charleston, with many different local vendors selling handmade-crafts, art, jewelry, pottery, and so many more goods to choose from. One of the most well-known items that are sold are the sweetgrass baskets. It has been passed down through generations and represents Charleston’s legacy. If you like to shop at small local businesses, this would be the perfect place to do so. I personally have visited the city market many times and really enjoyed it. The market had a fun atmosphere, and I always left with special souvenirs.

Vendors line up on the brick street for the City Market.(Rylee Hahn)

A vintage Volkswagen flower truck attracts visitors at a market. (Rylee Hahn)

The Mount Pleasant pier offers a beautiful view that overlooks the harbor and the Ravenel Bridge. This spot is perfect for watching the sunrise or sunset, walks, or even if you just want to relax. The pier has plenty of seating, allowing visitors to sit and relax while watching the boats pass by or simply just taking in the moment. I know a lot of people love to take pictures at this spot to capture the moment. I plan on visiting the pier very soon, and I couldn’t be more excited to take photos and look at the beautiful scenery.

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If you are a fan of the movie Notebook, then Cypress Gardens is the perfect place to visit. Many scenes were shot here, and it is as beautiful as it is in the movie. One of the most memorable shots is the swamp bridge, which also allows visitors to get the real feel of the movie. You are able to do tons of different activities that include swamp boat tours, swamparian, butterfly house, and so many other fun things. There are also trails that you can walk on that overlook the swamp. I hope that one day I can visit the Cypress Gardens because The Notebook is one of my favorite movies.

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The Provost Dungeon is a building in Charleston that has one of the most significant impacts in history. During the American revolution, the British converted the bottom floor into a military prison, and then soon into a place for public slave auctions. The history still remains in the building and now is a museum for the public. The Provost Dungeon is now a museum that is open to the public, allowing visitors to learn about these important events. I was able to tour the dungeon and it was so fascinating to learn about the history that happened in our country.

This is the place where all the slaves were first held.

Inside the Provost Dungeon, stone walls reveal Edinburgh’s dark past.

Visitors walk through Provost Dungeon, exploring preserved spaces of enslavement.

If you are wanting to learn more about history within the city, Fort Sumter is a great place to explore. It is located in the middle of Charleston harbor, and it is only accessible by ferry rides. Fort Sumter is a major part of American history because the first shots from the Civil War were fired here. While visiting, you can walk through the remains of the fort and see old cannons that were used during that time. I personally have never been to Fort Sumter, but I am hoping to visit there soon and learn more about history within the city.

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About the Contributor

Rylee Hahn, Senior Journalist

Grade: Senior Hobbies: Shopping and hanging out with friends and family Favorite Season: Summer Favorite Song: The Morning – The Weeknd Favorite Food: Hotdogs

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Road Trip Reviews: Charleston’s southern charm