Charleston County and surrounding areas are officially back to school and while we’re all sad to see summer come to an end, there are some benefits to the kids being back in the classroom. Summer weather will be with us for quite some time in Charleston, so if you are considering a last minute visit, now is a good time to go for it. Here are some of the things you can expect to see and do (with much lower crowds) before Fall officially begins.
- Visit the Beaches on the weekdays
You’ll quickly realize that typically popular outdoor summer activities are almost entirely empty while school is in session. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the beautiful South Carolina beaches but are not interested in the crowds they draw, this is the perfect opportunity to check them out. Piggybacking on this idea, the restaurants on the beaches will also likely be much less crowded than a typical summer day, so run, don’t walk, to Poes Tavern for your beachside lunch.
- Take a horse & carriage tour of the city
Just because the locals are back to the grind, doesn’t mean you have to do the same. Take the opportunity while downtown is quieter than normal to take a relaxing horse & carriage ride through Charleston. You’ll learn the history of the Holy City while exploring several blocks of residential downtown. Your guide is a wealth of information who will answer any questions you might have about the historic aspects of Charleston as well as the best downtown spots to grab lunch or dinner (and you likely won’t have to wait very long for a table at this time of year.)
- Take a boat tour to Fort Sumter
One of Charleston, SC’s most historic sites, Fort Sumter, is open to the public for tours during the day. Fort Sumter tours offer a two hour experience beginning and ending with a 30 minute boat ride, and a full hour to explore the island and learn about the place where the American Civil War began. Take advantage of the low crowds and warm weather. Tours and attractions in Downtown Charleston are easily accessible this time of year and a must-do experience, especially for first-time visitors.
- Enjoy a self-guided walking tour of Rainbow Row and the Battery
At this time of year, there are fewer people out and about, making it the perfect time to take a self-guided stroll. Rainbow Row is a very popular site especially during spring and summer months when families are visiting from out of town. The row of pastel homes is a site to see at any time of year, but it can be difficult to get the perfect photo when the city is busy with visitors. This time of year, the streets tend to be less crowded, and a walking tour could be an easy way to learn about the city on foot.
While summer is a coveted time to visit Charleston, SC, there are ways to avoid the busiest times of the year. Once kids are back in school, the city typically sees a few weeks of smaller crowds, fewer locals and visitors out and about, and can be the perfect time to plan a trip; especially if your family is still enjoying summer vacation. We hope this gives you some motivation to take that end of summer trip! There is no better time to do everything you’ve been wanting to do in Charleston, SC.