Discover the Rich Tapestry of History at The Charleston Museum
Explore The Charleston Museum, the first museum in the U.S., and immerse yourself in the rich history and natural wonders of Charleston.
The Charleston Museum, hailed as the first museum in America, offers a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and natural wonders. Located in the heart of Charleston, this museum showcases the evolution of the area, featuring historical artifacts, engaging exhibits, and beautiful natural history displays that are perfect for tourists seeking to dive deep into the culture and heritage of South Carolina.
A brief summary to The Charleston Museum
- 360 Meeting St, Charleston, Wraggborough, South Carolina, 29403, US
- +1843-722-2996
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Check the museum's schedule for special exhibits and events that may coincide with your visit.
- Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibits and historical context.
- Don't miss the museum shop for unique local crafts and history-themed souvenirs.
- Allocate at least two hours to fully explore the various exhibits and galleries.
Getting There
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Walking
From King Street, head east towards Meeting Street. Turn left on Meeting Street and continue walking for about 5-10 minutes. The Charleston Museum will be on your left at 360 Meeting St.
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Biking
If you prefer to bike, you can rent a bike from one of the local bike rental shops on King Street. Once you have your bike, ride east down King Street until you reach Meeting Street. Turn left on Meeting Street and continue for about 2 minutes. The Charleston Museum will be on your left at 360 Meeting St.
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Public Transit (Bus)
Take the CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority) bus route 40 from a nearby bus stop on King Street. Make sure to check the bus schedule for specific times. Get off at the stop closest to the Charleston Museum, which is near the intersection of Meeting St and Calhoun St. From there, it’s a short walk to the museum at 360 Meeting St. Note that there may be a small fare for the bus.
Discover more about The Charleston Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lowcountry History Hall
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Frankly Charleston Black History Tours
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The Gate Temple
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Second Presbyterian Church
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South Carolina State Arsenal
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William Aiken House
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Mother Emanuel AME Church
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Middleton-Pinckney House
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Robert S. Roulain House
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Hyatt House Charleston/Historic District
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William Blacklock House - College of Charleston
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Brith Sholom Beth Israel Synagogue
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Fort Sumter Tours
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Walks of Charleston
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Bulldog Tours
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Unmissable attractions to see
Joseph Manigault House
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Adventure Sightseeing
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Essential Charleston Passport
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Pineapple Tour Group
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Gullah Tours
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Gray Line
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Charleston Visitor Center
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Wragg Square
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The Best Friend Train Museum
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Charleston Music Hall
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Tiedemann Park Nature Center & Playground
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Children's Museum of the Lowcountry
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Aiken-Rhett House Museum
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American Theater
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Marion Square
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Essential places to dine
Hutson Alley
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Coast Bar & Grill
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39 Rue de Jean
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Vincent Chicco's
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Halls Chophouse
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Virginia's On King
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Playa Bowls
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The Rarebit
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Stars Rooftop & Grill Room
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The Darling Oyster Bar
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Stella's
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The Swamp Fox Restaurant
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The Ordinary
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Sorghum & Salt
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The Restaurant at Zero George
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Museum Gift Shop
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Farside Vintage
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Ensemble Consignment Boutique
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Two Cumberland
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Old Whaling Company
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Altar'd State King Street
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Something About Me
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The Hidden Countship: Italian Boutique for Fine Living
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Gasp
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francesca's
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Brandy Melville - Charleston
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Laurel & Lawton
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Pottery Barn
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MIX Boutique
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House of Sage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Brick: Charleston's Favorite Tavern
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Citrus Club
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Proof Bar
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The Cocktail Club
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The Belmont
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Vintage Lounge
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Prohibition
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Bay Street Biergarten
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Midtown Bar & Grill
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Burns Alley Tavern
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Pour Taproom: Charleston
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Uptown Social
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Bourbon N' Bubbles
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Last Saint
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Little Palm
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