Charleston, South Carolina: the Holy City
Charleston, South Carolina, affectionately known as the Holy City, is a charming destination that offers a rich historical and cultural experience for visitors. It’s the Holy City for a reason – over 400 church steeples decorate the Charleston skyline, and many religions now practice within its boundaries.
Charleston is a historic port city, with its settlement dating back to the 1600s. In the 1700s, Blackbeard blockaded the city. Charleston was the former trade capital of enslaved people in the 1800s. The American Civil War began at Fort Sumter.
Needless to say, the city of Charleston has over 300 years of stories and experiences to explore, and these 30 things to do in Charleston will help you explore all of it this September.
Parts of Charleston
When people say Charleston, sometimes they mean the Charleston Peninsula, and sometimes they include the neighboring beach towns. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Charleston neighborhoods include places like South of Broad (the region south of Broad Street), the French Quarter (where refugees from religious persecution settled), and King Street (the shopping district). For a full breakdown, visit Afar’s guide.
Beyond Charleston’s peninsula, the three main beach towns are Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms.
Mount Pleasant is considered a suburb of Charleston, and an easy drive to get go over the Ravenel Bridge.
North Charleston is its own city, and includes places like the Magnolia Plantation.
Throughout this article, we’ll refer to Charleston and encompass all of these regions.
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. This means that Coastal with Kelly may earn a commission if/when you click on or make purchases via affiliate links, at no additional cost to you.
What’s the weather like?
With its subtropical climate, Charleston’s September provides a great month to explore the city’s historical sites, enjoy the sunny warm days, and indulge in its diverse culinary delights. That means you should definitely pack your sunscreen.
Mid-to-late September is one of the least-expensive times to visit Charleston, in part due to hurricane season.
Being situated along the Atlantic coast, Charleston is subject to the Atlantic hurricane season, which typically lasts from June to November.
It’s essential to stay informed about weather conditions during your trip, so download a weather app like WeatherBug. Keep an eye on weather stations and listen to local authorities for any updates or precautions.
September in Charleston can go one of two ways – remain hot and sticky like it was in August, or turn drier and crisp like it can be in October.
The average high temperature in September hovers around the mid-80s°F (around 28°C), creating warm but not uncomfortably hot days. Ladies: that means if you’re planning to wear your best sundresses, do not forget to pack this lifesaver.
The average low temperature drops to the pleasant mid-60s°F (around 18°C) in the evenings (so you’ll want to pack a wrap like this one for when the sun goes down).
This guide includes 30 things to do in Charleston in September, broken into five sections: popular festivals, food and drink scene, things to do by the water, downtown attractions, and things just outside of town you don’t want to miss.
Festivals
1. Low Country Jazz Festival
Dates: September 2-3, 2023
Price: starting at $58
The Low Country Jazz Festival is a must-do event in early September for music enthusiasts. The festival offers live performances, bringing the soulful melodies of jazz to Charleston.
The festival takes place at the Charleston Gaillard Center, which produces and presents world-class performances.
This year features multiple artists, including GRAMMY® nominated Dave Koz and the talented AVERY*SUNSHINE.
Tickets for the performances are $58 plus fees per day, with a 10% discount for purchasing tickets for both days.
If you love Jazz, don’t forget to check out the White Linen Cocktail Party to kick off the weekend, hosted at the International African American Museum.
Tickets are $125 plus fees, which includes an open bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Requires tickets to either Saturday or Sunday’s Jazz Festival to purchase.
To learn more and purchase tickets, click here.
2. 50 Years of Folly
Dates: September 22-October 1, 2023
Price: $5-$100
Mark your calendar for the 50th anniversary celebration of Folly Beach. Folly Beach is a small barrier island with a classic east coast beach town vibe.
The celebration starts Friday September 22 with the 50th Gala, an opportunity to dress up in your best 20s-themed wear. Additional events include fair rides, dancing, car show, a gala, and more!
For the full list of events and to purchase tickets, click here.
3. Edisto Beach Shag Festival
Dates: September 1-3, 2023
Price: $20 per day
If you’re heading to Charleston over Labor Day Weekend, the Edisto Beach Music & Shag Fest is not to miss!
The festival runs September 1-3, at the Bay Creek Park in Edisto Beach. This festival brings together musicians, artisans, and shag dancing.
Not sure what that is? There’s a shag dancing lesson on Friday September 1 at 5pm to bring you up to speed, before performances kick off at 7:30pm!
Five beach music bands will perform over the weekend, in addition to DJ Pat Patterson.
The weekend kicks off 3pm Friday, September 1 and ends Sunday September 3 at 10pm.
Tickets are $20 daily, while children 12 and under enter free. For more information, click here.
4. MOJA Art Festival
During September, the MOJA Arts Festival takes center stage, celebrating African-American and Caribbean arts and culture.
This vibrant and family-friendly event features live performances, art exhibitions, dance shows, and much more. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Charleston’s rich cultural heritage while supporting local non-profit organizations and artists.
The festival runs September 28-October 8, 2023. As of August 10, 2023 the schedule of events for 2023 is still forthcoming.
Check out their website for more updates!
5. Charleston Pride Week & Festival
Show your PRIDE this September at Charleston Pride Festival! Pride week starts September 11, 2023 and ends Saturday September 16, 2023.
Catch the Pride Festival on September 16th from 12pm-6pm. This event boasts local food trucks, incredible performances, specialty drinks, and more. This year, the event will be held at The Refinery.
For more information, visit their website.
6. Sweet Tea Festival
Looking for a break from the city, and love sweet tea?
The Sweet Tea Festival will take place in Summerville, 25 miles northwest of downtown.
The festival honors the birth place of sweet tea on September 23, 2023. Here, you can vote on the best tea of the year by sampling the teas entered in the competition.
You’ll find local vendors and food trucks, as well as entertainment from 2pm-7pm.
To learn more, visit summervilledream.org.
Food & Drink Scene
7. Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day
Happening on September 18, 2023, if you’re in town you need to make time to try out a few of these top-rated cheeseburgers in Charleston. Note it may be a good idea to set up a reservation depending on the restaurant
Salty Dog
If you’re looking for something over the top, swing by the Salty Dog for the Jake-zilla Burger. It’s famous for its addition of pulled pork, pimento cheese, and a hushpuppy on top. You can even build your own bun at the Salty Dog. So go crazy choosing your patty (including a Black Bean Burger) and 8 different toppings. This location does not take reservations.
Park & Grove
A classic cheeseburger can be found in a lot of Charleston restaurants, but Park & Grove’s double smash patty has a little something because it’s served on a buttery brioche bun. It’s served with a classic melted yellow cheddar. This location accepts reservations on Resy.
Oak Steakhouse
If you’re in it for the fries as much as you’re in it for the burger, you won’t regret going to the Oak Steakhouse. The Oak Burger is a thick, juicy 8oz burger served with truffle fries. And yes, there’s shaved parm on those fries. This location accepts reservations on OpenTable.
They also serve a cauliflower steak (vegan option available) if any travelers have dietary restrictions.
Tully’s
Looking for a late-night burger? Tully’s is your answer.
Their burger joint is open during shows happening at the Music Farm. Come by for a classic two patty cheese burger on a sesame bun, and don’t forget the fries! This location does not take reservations.
8. Coffee Shops
Whether you need an early cup of coffee, an afternoon pick me up, or a late night espresso, these coffee shops should be at the top of your list while visiting Charleston this September.
Babas Charleston
A pair of European cafés, serving up much more than coffee. Enjoy their meals and happy hours on both Canon Street and Meeting Street from 7am-8pm, making this the perfect spot from morning til night.
Mercantile & Mash
Located on East Bay Street, this shop is more so a morning to midnight location.
In the morning, enjoy the Mercantile – offering gourmet foods, espresso, coffee, and teas. And yes, you can even enjoy a lavender latte with your all-day breakfast.
They also offer monthly courses, and September 29 is Oktoberfest for guests 21+ (visit their website to learn more).
Bar Mash is a whiskey and beer bar open in the evenings, with happy hour deals and events like live music.
Bitty and Beau’s Coffee
While Bitty and Beau’s can be found in multiple cities now (like Annapolis), it’s worth visiting in every city. You’ll find Charleston’s location on Church Street.
Bitty and Beau’s Coffee Shops proudly staff their shops with individuals with disabilities, and are on a mission to change the way communities perceive and accept these individuals.
With friendly customer service, this coffee shop is the perfect place to grab a classic latte, chai, or a smoothie.
9. Charleston Restaurant Week
One of the highlights of September is Charleston Restaurant Week, a food lover’s paradise. Mark your calendar for September 7-17, 2023.
Local restaurants in downtown Charleston, Folly Beach, and Mount Pleasant offer special menus and discounts, allowing visitors to savor the city’s delectable Lowcountry cuisine. From seafood platters to soulful barbecue, Charleston’s culinary scene is diverse and unique.
Downtown, you’ll find features from Church and Union, Little Palm, Park & Grove, Ritual, Swamp Fox Restaurant & Bar, Tempest and Well Hung Vineyard.
Don’t forget to check out the food trucks and food vendors at festivals and local markets, where you can sample delicious treats made by talented chefs and local vendors.
10. Charleston Food Tour
King Street in downtown Charleston is most popular for dining and shopping, but when you take a food tour, you just might find a few new hidden gems.
There are multiple tour companies offering food tours, such as Charleston Culinary Tours and Bulldog Tours.
Tours typically range from 2-4 hours, with themes such as seasonal offerings, haunted food tours, and low country favorites.
Food tour costs can range from $60-$117 per person. You can book your tours online using the links above.
Most tours are not marketed as being wheel-chair accessible, so call ahead for confirmation or refer to the tour website for more information.
11. Visit Charleston’s only Vineyard
Every Saturday in September, Deep Water Vineyard hosts Weekend Wine-Down from 10am-5pm. Here, you can enjoy a tasting of 6 wines for $15 and return home with a souvenir wine glass.
Also on site, rotating food trucks and live music provide entertainment at this kid and dog friendly location.
To learn more, visit their website.
12. Rooftop Bar Scene
There’s no better way to watch the sunset than with a rooftop view of the Holy City, drink in hand, surrounded by great company. Check out these three rooftop bars during your visit.
Citrus Club
As the highest rooftop in Charleston, you’ll want to stop here if you love citrus cocktails, a great view, and small plates. If you’re seeking a classy mocktail, you’ll find it here under the Zero Proof section of their menu. This bar is a part of the Dewberry Hotel.
Revelry Brewing & Rooftop
There’s nothing better than great views, great brews, and dogs – right?
Revelry Brewing is, you guessed it, a brewery that offers rotating in-house brews and eats. Opens daily at noon, but these views were meant for sunset. Come by on a Tuesday night to enjoy Trivia Tuesday.
Charleston Harbor Fish House Bridge Bar
Seafood lovers will rejoice knowing they can enjoy oysters on the half-shell, a cocktail, and an uninterrupted view of the USS Yorktown and Charleston Harbor.
Located in Mount Pleasant, this open-air bar is a part of the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina. The Bridge Bar is open daily from 4pm-10pm, weather permitting.
By the Water
If you love an excuse to be near the coast, and even better if you can get your hands and feet wet, this section is for you. Check out these five options to explore Charleston by the water, and on the water.
13. Casual Crabbing with Tia
For the freshest seafood, you need to catch it yourself. That’s where Tia comes in.
Tia is a Charleston native and founder of Casual Crabbing with Tia. She hosts an Airbnb experience called “Let’s Go Crabbing” that you can book online or in the app.
Your experience is a 2-hour lesson in all things crabbing. You’ll learn to throw a cast net and set bait, how to hold a crab without getting pinched, and more.
Plus, you might even catch some fish and shrimp.
Before you arrive, you’ll need to get a Saltwater Fishing License.
You can purchase a day pass for $10 which is valid for 1 day as a non-resident, or as a South Carolina resident purchase a 14-day pass for $10. Just remember to bring a digital or printed copy.
14. Take a Charleston Boat Tour
There are multiple options to take a tour of the Charleston harbor – whether you’re looking for a sunset sail boat ride, tour of the harbor, or a private yacht.
If you’re looking for an easy, afternoon sail, take a smooth ride aboard the Schooner Pride to explore the Charleston Harbor for a dolphin tour.
The Schooner Pride also offers evening sails, enjoy a sunset sail aboard the tall ship Schooner Pride. This non-narrated tour costs $75 per person. This is the perfect way to unwind, a glass of wine in hand as you watch the sun sink below the horizon, wind in your sails.
If a catamaran is more your style, check out Charleston Sailing Adventures for a public Sunset Sail (BYOB) or a private charter starting at $325 for two people.
Harbor Tours
Learn everything you’ve wondered about the Charleston Harbor aboard Sandlapper Water Tours. From nature tours to ghost tours, they have all of your interests covered.
Dolphin and Eco Tours are 2 hours long, and cost $52 per person (children under 12 are $40). This includes dolphin sight-seeing, visiting an uninhabited barrier island, and exploring an onboard ‘touch tank’ to learn more about what lives in Charleston’s waters.
Ghost and Pirate Tours allow you to explore Charleston’s most haunted sites from the water and learn about the history of plundering pirates of the Holy City’s past.
Private Yacht
If you’re looking for more luxury, check out Charleston Sailing Charters for private harbor tours and sunset tours for a group up to 6 people, starting at $499.
15. Joe Riley Waterfront Park and Pineapple Fountain
The 10-acre Joe Riley Waterfront Park is famous for its Pineapple Fountain, a symbol of southern hospitality.
The park is divided into multiple sections, with waterfront walking trails and benches to take in the beautiful views of the Cooper River and Charleston Harbor.
The park is bordered by two piers. The northern end is home to the Waterfront Park Pier, which provides a perfect view of the Ravenel Bridge, and closest to the Pineapple Fountain. It’s also a great place for fishing, and relaxing on the large porch swings.
The southern end of the park is marked by the Public Pier, which has benches available to sit on and watch the boats go by.
16. Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Sumter was one of the original guards of Charleston from the 1800s, as it is situated on an artificial island in the harbor.
Though it originated as a means to protect the coast from British invasion, it was also the site of the beginning of the American Civil War.
Fort Sumter is open to the public daily from 9am-4:30pm, with Fort Sumter Tours providing the only authorized access to Fort Sumter.
The fee is $35 per person, with discounts for military and children. If you have a National Parks Pass, it does not apply to the ferry fee.
17. Charleston SUP Safari
To see Charleston’s coast up close and personal, you’ll want to explore through a paddling excursion.
Charleston SUP Safaris offers three different types of guided tours: Dolphin Safari, Morris Island Lighthouse Safari, and the Full Moon Safari.
If you’d rather paddle privately, you can rent stand up paddle boards starting at 10am for a 2-hour rental, 8-hour rental, or 24-hour rental, starting at $35 per person.
Lessons are also available for SUP Surfing, SUP Yoga, and SUP workout classes.
18. Speed Boat Adventure Tour
Are you a thrill-seeker? You’ll want to take a tour around the Charleston Harbor this way.
The Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour is the fastest way to see the Charleston Harbor sites. Get behind the wheel of a speed boat and follow your guide around the harbor to experience the beauty, and the thrill.
You’ll explore the Ravenel Bridge, Aquarium, Joe Riley Waterfront Park, Battery & White Point Gardens, and more!.
The tour is approximately two hours. You can rent single boats (for one person) for $161.80 per person or a double boat (seats two people) for $205.76 per person.
Sign up today and book your adventure here.
Downtown
19. Walking Tours
Charleston’s historic district is a treasure trove of well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets, reflecting the city’s storied past. Take advantage of the mild weather in September by joining a walking tour to learn about Charleston’s captivating history.
Historic walking tours will explore City Hall, America’s First Theatre, Old Exchange Building, and more! Starting at $26.50 per person, this two hour tour is a great way to get acquainted with the Holy City.
Looking to find out where the iconic Rainbow Row is? Sign up for this tour to explore the French Quarter and South of Broad neighborhoods, starting at $23 per person.
If you’re looking to learn more about the importance of Black History in Charleston, you’ll want to check out the Lost Stories of Black Charleston Walking Tour. This tour starts at $34 per person, and takes you to Catfish Row, Waterfront Park, Jehu Junes Hotel site, and more.
Looking for more unique tours? Check out Walk and Talk Charleston to get the hot gossip on the history of the town, history of the shopping district, and Charleston’s LGBTQ+ history.
20. Ghost Tour
If you’re already excited for spooky-season (it is, September, after all), a ghost tour just might be the best way to explore the Holy City.
One of America’s most-haunted cities, Charleston is known to have some dark secrets. Explore old alleys, haunted buildings, and a graveyard to learn more about Charleston’s haunted past.
While there are multiple walking ghost tours, only one gives you exclusive access to the Unitarian Church Graveyard. Tour start times are 7:30pm, 8:30pm, 9:00pm, and 9:30pm.
Tickets are approximately $35 per person, and tours last 1 hour and 30 minutes.
21. Charleston City Market
The Charleston City Market is the number one most visited attraction in the Holy City.
The Market boasts over 300 entrepreneurs selling their goods every day of the year, except December 25th. It’s open daily 9:30am-5:00pm.
If you prefer weekend shopping, stop by for the Night Market. Fridays and Saturdays from 6:30pm-10:30pm. The Night Market has over 200 artists sharing exclusively handcrafted and locally made goods.
22. Rainbow Row
One of the most photographed locations in downtown Charleston, Rainbow Row is a series of Georgian homes that were painted brightly starting in the 1930s.
There are 13 homes along the waterfront all painted various pastel colors, along East Bay Street. Rainbow Row is an iconic location for photos, and simply enjoying a stroll along the waterfront.
Want professional photos for an incredibly memorable trip? You can book a 60 minute session here.
23. Charleston Farmer’s Market
The Charleston Farmer’s Market is a must-do activity if you’re in town on a Saturday.
Open Saturdays from 8:00am – 2:00pm, Marion Square becomes covered with vendors selling fresh local products, artisanal goods, artwork, and more.
If you’re curious about what produce is in season during September, check out this guide.
In town for just a weekend, and just want a bite to eat? There are pre-made food vendors on-site like the Charleston Crepe Company, Bigg Egg Charleston, and Harlow & Pearl Coffee.
24. South Carolina Aquarium
Bad weather day? Escape the rain at the South Carolina Aquarium for a few hours.
Located on the waterfront, there are 13 different exhibits to explore, from the Mountain Forest to the Ocean. The Great Ocean Tank is 385,000 gallons, filled with sea turtles, sharks, fish, and more.
You can also visit the Sea Turtle Recovery rehabilitation center to learn how sea turtles are rehabilitated on site.
If you’ve ever wondered about sustainable seafood, check out their Good Catch Program, where they promote the consumption of sustainable seafood from North Carolina through Florida.
Ticket prices vary, but are $30 and up for adults, and can be purchased 60 days in advance. You can reserve your tickets here.
Surrounding the Peninsula
25. Visit Sullivan’s Island
Luckily the water temperature is still quite warm in September! Sea temperatures average 80-83°F (26-29°C), which is perfect for an afternoon at the beach.
Sullivan’s Island is a small, 3-mile island south of Mount Pleasant, known for its pristine beach. If you’re visiting with furry friends, note that all dogs must have a license from Town Hall.
Plan for the Beach
Coast is Clean is an initiative of Explore Charleston that prevents beach goers from bringing single-use plastics onto Charleston’s beaches. That includes single-use plastic bags, plastic straws, and Styrofoam (including coolers and clamshell containers). Fines may be imposed of up to $500 for non-compliance. Smoking is also banned on Sullivan’s Island, and more information is available here.
There is wheelchair accessibility at Sullivan’s Island, however, beach wheelchairs must be reserved in advance. To learn more, click here. For a full list of beach rules on Sullivan’s Island, visit the town’s website here.
If you’ve had enough walking tours during your visit, take an eBike tour to explore Mount Pleasant to Sullivan’s Island.
Heading to the beach to relax, but not sure what to read? Shop Coastal with Kelly’s favorite beach reads, here.
26. Angel Oak in Johns Island
You’ll be in awe after visiting Angel Oak Park.
Angel Oak Park is the location of the largest Live Oak tree east of the Mississippi. A true piece of history, this oak tree is estimated to be over 300 years old.
The park is free to visit and open every day, aside from holidays. Donations are encouraged to support the continued preservation of the Angel Oak. Note that food and drinks are not permitted near the tree.
To learn more about Angel Oak, visit the park’s website.
27. Magnolia Plantation
South Carolina has over 2,000 plantations, and Charleston is also home to many well-known sites. They were the drivers of the economy of the south prior to the American Civil War, using enslaved people to perform the labor on-site.
Now, plantations serve as an opportunity to educate visitors about the past. While there are multiple within driving distance of Charleston, two plantations that made the list are the Magnolia Plantation and Boone Hall Plantation.
The Magnolia Plantation is known for its gardens and is home to abundant wildlife on site, such as alligators and turtles. Here, you’ll see America’s last large Romantic Garden as well. You can take a tour of the Magnolia Plantation leaving directly from downtown Charleston by booking a tour here.
28.Charleston Battery Soccer Game
Looking to add more excitement to your trip? Cheer for the local team!
Charleston Battery is the city’s men’s soccer team. They frequently get involved with the Charleston community through youth soccer clinics and school visits.
There are multiple matches in September, located at the Mount Pleasant field, Patriots Point. Tickets are approximately $12 per person. You can learn more here.
Concessions include burgers, BBQ, chicken, and Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, among many others. Beer and wine are also available for purchase.
29. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Patriots Point is for the history lover. This stop features one of the largest on-water museums in the world, as it features the USS Yorktown.
The USS Yorktown is an aircraft carrier that served the US Navy, decommissioned in 1970s. This popular tourist attraction supports over 300,000 visitors annually.
You can expect to spend 3-4 hours exploring the USS Yorktown, USS Laffey, The Vietnam Experience Exhibit, Medal of Honor Museum, and Cold War Museum. All included in one ticket price.
Tickets start at $27 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors, veterans, teachers, and more. Additional ad-ons are available, such as the Captain’s Guided Tour.
Learn more and purchase tickets, here.
30. Walk or Bike Wonders’ Way (Ravenel Bridge)
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is one of the most iconic scenes in Charleston, connecting Mount Pleasant to downtown. Built in the 2000s to accommodate more traffic, the 2.5mile bridge offers a protected path for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy breathtaking views of the Cooper River.
If driving, you can park at the Mount Pleasant Visitor Center or the Waterfront Park, which is near the walking path. Pay attention to the path markings to leave space for cyclists passing by if you’re enjoying a walk.
If you’re cycling, take the water taxi to Patriots Point from the Maritime Center. The full bike ride from Patriots Point, over the bridge, and back is approximately 7 miles so be sure to bring water!
The water taxi costs $14 for an all-day pass, which lasts from 9am to 8pm. Children under 3 travel free!
At the end of the day, it’s hard to go wrong with your options in Charleston, South Carolina.
With its historical charm, multiple festivals, and mouth-watering food, the Holy City will pull you in this September and you’ll quickly learn why it has ranked as the number one city in the United States for the last 11 years.
Whether you’re strolling along the cobblestone streets, attending jazz festivals, or simply savoring local delicacies, Charleston will captivate your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories. If you’re looking for a destination that combines cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Charleston should be at the top of your list for a September getaway.