Fun Things to Do in Winter

Winter is the perfect time to explore the historic district from an iconic horse and carriage. Our friends at Palmetto Carriage Works have a team of highly knowledgeable guides who will give you a perfect overview of the history of the Holy City.

The South Carolina Aquarium features 5,000 animals, an award-winning education team, a Sea Turtle Care Center™, and conservation programs that protect local species. You’ll be struck with awe and inspiration as you journey through all of the exhibits. And, during the holidays, the aquarium comes to life with thousands of festive lights. The event is called Aquarium Aglow and is a holiday highlight.

There are many places to shop on iconic King Street. The Lower King Street “Antiques District” stretches from Broad Street to Market Street and was voted the “Best Antique Shopping in the U.S.” by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. The Middle King Street “Fashion District” (from Market Street to Calhoun Street) is named for its mix of charming locally-owned boutiques and well-known national brands. The Upper King Street “Design and Dining District” can be found from Marion Square to Spring Street. This district is one of the busiest and is known for its excellent dining options and nightlife.

Winter may be considered “off-season”, but the events calendar says otherwise! From Wine Under the Oaks to the Lowcountry Oyster Festival to the Charleston Winter Wine Festival, Charleston has you covered for winter festivals and events. Click here to see more winter events.

Step out of the chilly weather and grab a few friends and head to Candlefish to create your very own custom candle! The classes are fun and relaxed and offer the perfect opportunity to chat, sip some wine, and create a great keepsake!

Bin 152 is one of Charleston’s oldest wine bars and is located in the heart of Downtown. They offer 40 different wines by the glass and more than 200 different bottles. Don’t forget to pair some cheese with your wine. They feature 40 different kinds of cheese and charcuterie all served with freshly baked bread. Yum! Click here for more great wine bars in Charleston.

Every January in Charleston, locals and visitors can enjoy visiting a variety of participating sites along “Museum Mile” by purchasing one low-price ticket. For locals, it’s an opportunity to spend the entire month learning about Charleston’s history and culture at an affordable price.

Adult tickets are $35 and children’s are $10. Tickets include admission to thirteen amazing sites. Tickets must be purchased at the Visitors Center. To get more information and a map of locations, click here.

Experience the magic of live theater at the Dock Street Theatre as Charleston Stage brings to life a captivating season of plays and musicals, each adorned with breathtaking scenery, dazzling costumes, and captivating lighting. Their productions feature a talented Resident Professional Acting Company alongside more than 100 skilled professionals, including actors, singers, dancers, guest designers, choreographers, scenic artists, and technicians.

Head up to the North Charleston Coliseum and check out our professional minor-league hockey team, the Stingrays! There are several games throughout the season, so there are plenty of opportunities to get together with friends or family to cheer on our local team! Tickets start at $21. Click here for the full Stingrays schedule.

Nothing beats the winter blues better than a relaxing spa treatment, and there are many fabulous spas in Charleston to choose from. Indulge in a rejuvenating spa experience at Charleston’s premier wellness destinations.

Elyon Massage and Boutique Spa offers an array of services, from facials and massages to CBD products for both people and pets. Mink Total Medical Spa & Wellness provides a comprehensive range of treatments, including facials, body treatments, massage therapy, and hair removal. Lordis Loft’s Aveda facials are tailored to your specific skincare needs, while The Spa at Wentworth Mansion offers an idyllic setting for a relaxing massage. Originally the mansion’s stables, the intimate and eucalyptus-scented spa features striking architectural details, including 14-foot vaulted ceilings, arched windows, exposed brick, and rustic beams, creating an air of tranquility and comfort for facials, massages, body treatments, and other services.