5 Simple Things to Avoid Doing When Visiting Charleston, South Carolina

By Mark A. Leon

Here are five things to avoid while visiting Charleston, SC:

Disrespecting History: Many tourists overlook the city’s complex past. Engage with its history thoughtfully, beyond just popular sites like Rainbow Row. Be inquisitive. Our tour guides and local residents are so versed in our storied past and love to engage and share in our rich heritage and past.

Driving Instead of Walking: The narrow, cobblestone streets are not ideal for cars. Walking or biking is safer and more enjoyable. There is a complexity to the streets of Charleston unlike most U.S. cities. On our roadways you will find many one way streets, cars, trucks, pedicabs, bikers, skateboarders, golf carts and in the center of all of it is the College of Charleston with thousands of students coming and going to class. If you don’t understand our city roadways you will have a challenge behind the wheels.

Ignoring Weather Preparedness: Charleston’s weather can change rapidly; be prepared for sudden rainstorms and pack accordingly. This is not exclusive to major natural disasters such as hurricanes and tornados. A flash storm or even high tide can adversely impact your plans.

Getting Too Close to Alligators: If you encounter alligators in natural areas, maintain a safe distance to avoid dangerous situations. This seems obvious, but often times people underestimate the speed of a gator and try to taunt them. Just don’t.

Wearing Inappropriate Footwear: Prioritize comfort over style; many streets are uneven, making comfortable shoes essential for exploring. There is a lot of walking in Charleston. Walk, walk, walk! Be prepared. Not just for the total steps you will accumulate, but the harsh ground conditions (concrete, cobblestone, sand, cracks and uneven roads).

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