5 New Permanent and Temporary Charleston Area Attractions You May Not Know About

This year, the Charleston, SC area has brought a continuation of our evolving cultural and historical awakening. In 2025 we are showcasing imagination and discovery with these 5 attractions that should be on your radar:

EDGAR ALLAN POE LIBRARY
1921 Ion Avenue, Sullivan’s Island
ccpl.org | @chascolibrary

The library is named for author Edgar Allan Poe, who was stationed on Sullivan’s Island as a private in the United States Army in 1827 and 1828 and who used the island setting as the background for his famous story, “The Gold Bug.” After nearly eight months of renovations, the Edgar Allan Poe Library on Sullivan’s Island has officially reopened. Upgrades include new bathrooms, fresh paint, updated furniture and enhanced IT systems.

INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM
14 Wharfside Street, Charleston
iaamuseum.org | @iaammuseum

The International African American Museum (IAAM) will debut its new special exhibition, “re/Defined: Creative Expressions of Blackness from the Diaspora.” Co-curated by IAAM’s staff members Suzanne DiBella and Isabelle Britto, the exhibition explores how Black creatives across the Atlantic World have shaped, challenged and celebrated Black identity through art, music, adornment and storytelling. Drawing on shared African ancestry, these artists redefine Blackness while preserving traditions and resisting systemic oppression. From West Africa to the Americas, “re/Defined” highlights the power of creative expression in confronting colonial legacies and promoting cultural pride. June 12, 2025 – January 4, 2026.

NATURE POP!® MAGNOLIA PLANTATION AND GARDENS
3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston
magnoliaplantation.com | @magnoliaplantation

For generations, visitors have come to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Lowcountry. This summer, experience nature in an entirely new way with Nature POP!®, an awe-inspiring exhibition by acclaimed artist Sean Kenney. This highly anticipated outdoor exhibit features more than 40 larger-than-life sculptures, made entirely of LEGO® bricks. These vibrant creations celebrate the beauty of nature through a striking pop-art lens, blending bold colors, imaginative designs and intricate craftsmanship to transform Magnolia’s gardens into an immersive outdoor gallery. During the month of June, experience the enchanting atmosphere of golden hour with extended hours until 8 pm and enjoy the gardens as you revel in nature’s beauty. May 23 – August 15, 2025.

SOUTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM VIRTUAL REALITY
100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston
scaquarium.org | @southcarolinaaquarium

Immersive 360-degree views of spectacular sharks and wondrous whales are now a reality at the Aquarium. Undersea Explorer, the new virtual reality experience, is now open for riders. Choose your ocean adventure and step aboard to enjoy the thrill of the ocean as live-action films are synced with motion-platform seating. April 2025.

THE CHARLESTON MUSEUM ARCHAEOLOGICAL DIG
360 Meeting Street, Charleston
charlestonmuseum.org | @charlestonmuseum

The Charleston Museum, in partnership with the College of Charleston, will conduct an archaeological dig at the historic Heyward-Washington House, focusing on the rear garden following last year’s cellar excavation. Led by curator John Fisher and professor Sarah Platt, the project offers students hands-on experience while inviting the public to explore Charleston’s colonial roots. Researchers aim to uncover remnants from the 1680s to 1730s tied to gunsmith John Milner Sr., who once owned the property. The dig is open to the public Fridays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. No reservations are required, though work is weather-dependent. March 14 – April 19, 2025.

Source: Explore Charleston

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