Uncover the Rich Heritage at The Charleston Museum
Explore The Charleston Museum, a historical gem showcasing the rich cultural and natural heritage of Charleston, South Carolina.
The Charleston Museum, known as America's first museum, invites tourists to explore a treasure trove of historical and natural artifacts. Located in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, this renowned institution showcases the city's vibrant past through engaging exhibits, educational programs, and a stunning collection of artifacts. Visitors can delve into the local history, ranging from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War, and admire natural history displays that highlight the region's unique flora and fauna. As you wander through its halls, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the cultural landscape that has shaped Charleston into the enchanting city it is today.
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
- Check the museum's website for current exhibitions and events to make the most of your visit.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the exhibits and artifacts.
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Take advantage of the museum's gift shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
Getting There
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Walking
Start from the Summerville Town Hall located at 200 S. Main St, Summerville, SC. Head south on S. Main St towards W. Doty Ave. Continue for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with W. 5th North St. Turn left onto W. 5th North St and walk for another 0.3 miles. You will reach the Summerville Amtrak Station. From here, take the Amtrak train heading towards Charleston. The train ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the Charleston Amtrak Station, exit the station and walk east towards Meeting St. Turn right onto Meeting St and walk for about 0.3 miles. The Charleston Museum will be on your left at 360 Meeting St.
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Public Bus
From the Summerville Town Hall at 200 S. Main St, walk to the nearest bus stop located at the intersection of Main St and W. Richardson Ave. Catch the Lowcountry Regional Transportation Authority (LTRTA) bus route 30 towards North Charleston. Stay on the bus for about 30 minutes until you reach the Charleston Transit Center. From the Transit Center, transfer to the CARTA bus route 10 towards Downtown Charleston. Ride for about 10 minutes and get off at the stop on Meeting St. The Charleston Museum will be directly across the street. Walk across Meeting St to reach the museum at 360 Meeting St.
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Bicycle
If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from a local rental shop in Summerville. Start at the Summerville Town Hall located at 200 S. Main St. Head south on S. Main St and then take a right onto W. Doty Ave. Follow the bike lanes for approximately 0.5 miles, then take another right onto W. 5th North St. Continue on this road until you reach the intersection with US-78. Turn left onto US-78 and follow the designated bike lane towards Charleston. After about 12 miles, you will reach the city limits of Charleston. Continue straight onto Meeting St, and after about 0.5 miles, you will arrive at the Charleston Museum located at 360 Meeting St.
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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