Charleston – Unusual Attractions & Day Trips

Charleston Off the Beaten Path

Charleston is an historically significant city in South Carolina. This popular U.S. tourist location includes plenty of interesting things to see off the beaten path.

Charleston Unusual Attractions

One of the more unusual attractions in Charleston is an abandoned church off Highway 402. You typically only see the ruins of former churches in Europe. But, the Biggin Church burned down because of forest fires in the 1700s and 1800s. It was finally abandoned during the Civil War era. 150 years later, you can still see the old church at the back of the grounds. There is also a cemetery in the center of the property.

Another Civil War-era attraction to visit is the CSS H.L. Hunley, which was a submarine used by the Confederacy. The submarine was salvaged, raised, and repaired. Now, the submarine is part of a tour at the Warren Lasch Conservation Center. But, tours are only offered on weekends. During the week, scientists continue their work preserving the Hunley for future generations. The center is located in North Charleston at the former Navy Yard.

Charleston Day Trips

One of the most intriguing tours you can take is the “Picture Perfect History Tour of Charleston.” This tour walks you through the unique history and architecture of the city. You will walk through alleyways and quiet streets to capture amazing photos using different angles, views, lights, and positions. One of the most memorable aspects is the “Four Corners of Law,” which is a street corner in Charleston that represents the levels of the law found in the U.S.

Perhaps the most interesting day trip you can take is to the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. Described as Charleston’s “most visited plantation,” you can walk around tall trees that are sitting in green, algae covered water. This makes for some very interesting photos. Magnolia is located about 30-40 minutes away from Charleston.

A similar location is the Audobon Center at Francis Beidler Forest. You can take a self-guided tour on the boardwalk to explore black swamp water, the forest, a swamp, and animal life. There are also canoe trips that let you paddle the deep blackwater of the swamp to meet the alligators. If you are feeling adventurous, you can gain another perspective on the Forest by taking one of the night walks. The Beidler Forest is located in Harleyville, about one hour away from Charleston.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about unusual attractions off the beaten path in Charleston.