Nearly 4 million visitors a year choose the greater Charleston area as their destination of choice, which is no suprise after taking into account its reputation for outstanding accommodations, entertainment, and world-class cuisine. The Historic Downtown District has stood throughout Charleston’s history as the cultural capital of the South and is considered by many to be a living museum, with a wonderful variety of things to do and see.

In this beautifully preserved coastal city you can experience tours through historic landmarks, including 18th century homes and plantations, the Battery, museums, churches and the city market. The number of historic sites in Charleston South Carolina is truly remarkable. Charleston also boasts numerous art galleries that display the city’s impressive appreciation for the visual arts. In addition, there are many wonderful historic accomodations to choose from when planning your visit. Charleston maintains all the ingredients necessary for not only a great vacation but a wonderful place to call home.

Charleston's rich history dates back to 1670 when settlers established Charles Town Landing and more than 300 years later the city features a rich history and culture that hardly could have been imagined 3 centuries ago.

The city of Charleston, itself, especially the peninsula portion, is a smorgasbord of extremes- from high-rise condominiums built in more recent years to small mansions built anytime in the last 250 years. Low-income housing developments can be found in the northern section of the city, while some of the homes in the historic section could empty the wallet of the richest man. But by no means is the middle income individual been left out. Many smaller homes can be found downtown. As a matter of fact, these are the homes that add up to form a large majority of the downtown market. These homes, fronted on cobblestone streets or cozy alleys are far away from the noise and congestion of an average city's downtown section.

Charleston's schools are plentiful. Private, church-related or public, they are all in downtown Charleston and most are an easy walk away. For recreation, there are tennis courts, playgrounds, basketball courts, baseball and football fields. A very active Parks and Recreation Commission organizes all kinds of sports and tournaments. Two of the area Yacht Clubs: Charleston Yacht Club and James Island Yacht Club and two marinas can also be found in the area.

The oldest theater in the country is here. The Dock Street Theatre was opened in 1736 and was the first American Building constructed for the sole purpose of being a playhouse! Charleston also has its own ballet and symphony, art museums and libraries. And of course, each year the city puts on the most comprehensive arts festival in the United States: Spoleto.