Located on Market Street is Charleston’s #1 most visited attraction, the Charleston City Market. This multi-faceted attraction is one of the nation’s oldest public markets and deemed the “Cultural Heart of the City”. Three open air structures comprise the Charleston City Market, which have stood strong through history for over two centuries. Throughout the year, locals and visitors gather to experience authentic time treasured customs and vibrant American history. Hundreds of entrepreneurs operating small businesses make up the bustling venue to create a fun and exciting shopping atmosphere that keep visitors and locals returning for rare 100% authentic Charleston made items from sweet grass baskets to bags of stone ground grits, and thousands more in-between. The Charleston City Market certainly has plenty to see, do, taste, and take home no matter the time of day or season you are visiting.
The Historic Hot Spots Nearby
Just a short walking distance away is The Port of Charleston, plenty of excellent restaurants to try, and historic buildings from the 1800’s. Located right on Market Street is the United States Custom House, which was built in 1853. The current design of this building is a result of a design competition. The two-story cross shaped building features beautiful details such as Roman porticoes supported by Corinthian Columns on the west and east arms, and Corinthian engaged columns between the windows. With slight resemblance to the Boston Customhouse, this building is still a unique historic experience.
Charleston also holds a nickname for “The Holy City” for its historic churches and denominations. Only a few blocks south of Market Street is, still, the only French Anglican Church in North America, a magnificent 1845 Gothic Revival structure on Church Street. Many of the city’s steeples are genuine bell towers, so be sure to listen for them to ring!
- Area is wheelchair accessible
- Photos are encouraged!
- Thousands of items to shop for perfect souvenirs