24 Things To Do in Charleston SC on a Rainy Day
Published April 18, 2025
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Charleston offers numerous excellent choices during rainy days.
The city is quite probable to experience afternoon thunderstorms nearly every day due to the ocean wind and heat here.
And, similar to almost every other place, Charleston indeed has wet weather.
If you're looking for activities on rainy days in Charleston, I've got you sorted.
Find out 24 things to do in Charleston SC on a rainy day!
1. North Charleston Fire Museum
This museum boasts the biggest assortment of United Nations's expertly refurbished American firefighting equipment.
Also, they possess more than 20 vehicles dating back to the 1780s.
All the equipment they have remains functional and can combat fires if required.
2. King St
Nestled between Broad St and George St, you'll discover this downtown shopping area of Charleston.
King St has been recognized as one of USA’s best ten shopping streets.
Within the incredible boutiques and shops here, you will likewise discover numerous antique stores blended in.
The combination of the shops and stores truly creates a distinctive retail adventure in Charleston.
3. Hunley Museum
HL Hunley's tale dates back to 1862 amidst the US Civil War.
During that period, experiments were being conducted to construct an effective submarine for use in the conflict.
Construction of the Hunley began in 1863 in April at Park & Lyons Machine Purchase in Mobile.
In July of that exact year, Hunley was introduced for the very foremost time.
She demonstrated great potential in her initial exhibitions.
Then, in August of 1863, she was transported to Charleston via rail to assist with the city's suffocating blockade.
The Hunley conducted two trial missions during which it sank, resulting in the loss of its crew.
Then, in 1864, February 17, the Hunley set out and created a place in the world's history by being the initial warfare submarine that would sink a different vessel, USS Housatonic.
However, no one really knows what precisely occurred with the Hunley, however, she never returned to port but remained lost at the ocean for more than a hundred years.
Later, after many years, Hunley was found in 1995 by NUMA and was lifted from the ocean in 2000.
The vessel still contained its crew members inside and the crew of eight men were interred in Charleston in the Magnolia Cemetery.
4. Charleston Breweries
Charleston boasts a vibrant craft local beer culture that has developed significantly.
The city has numerous options available and you'll be very pleased with them.
So, if you're seeking a fun day of sampling excellent beers in Charleston in order to escape the rain, you should check out the breweries.
Even, several Charleston breweries allow you to bring your dog companion.
Indeed, these spots will surely assist you in overcoming the rainy days.
5. Old Slave Mart
There existed slavery in United States history.
It predominantly consisted of Africans who were purchased, exchanged, and transferred.
Enslaved individuals brought to Charleston got sold in auctions publicly which continued until the year 1856 when Charleston banned sales in public places.
Then, closed slave markets were established like Ryans Mart, which serves as the location of this Old Slave Mart's Museum.
This location was employed in the then slave trade up to when Union Forces took over Charleston in February 1865.
The Historic Slave Market Museum is composed of descendants of slaves from Charleston.
It isn't a location for young kids or searching for relics, and there’s a significant amount of learning and reading conducted at this museum.
Although it represents a grim chapter in the USA and Charleston’s history, it remains beneficial to gain insights from history.
6. South Carolina's Aquarium
Prepare to encounter a variety of animals at this Charleston aquarium which features more than 5,000 distinct animals.
Among the displays here that your children will enjoy is the Contact Tank.
Also, you have the opportunity to handle hermit crabs, whelks, sea urchins, and horseshoe crabs, among numerous others.
So, take enough time and relish this aquarium during a rainy day in Charleston.
7. Old Exchange
Constructed in 1771, this structure has been utilized for various functions.
Originally serving as a former Custom House, then a WWII USO facility, and also as Post Office, The Exchange building possesses a fascinating history in the Charleston region.
When the British captured Charleston in 1780, it served as a military quarters and jail during the Revolutionary War of America.
Its correctional facility held Colonial Forces, enslaved Black Americans, pirates, and some British Soldiers.
Then, after the conclusion of the war, The Exchange building was utilized to accommodate South Carolina authorities when they approved The USA Constitution in 1788.
Also, The Exchange served on numerous occasions during George Washington's time in Charleston in 1791, during his South Tour.
These are merely a few of the key moments in The Exchange's history and its significance to Charleston.
Also, for individuals interested in ghostly encounters, it's among the most ghostly structures in Charleston.
8. Escape Room
A great way to enjoy your time in Charleston during a rainy day is by resolving a puzzle.
The Escape Room contains puzzles that you'll need to solve quickly to leave.
You'll find it quite enjoyable with friends and family or your partner.
So, enjoy yourself and consider sampling multiple options if you're facing an entire rainy day in Charleston.
9. Historic Houses
The city of Charleston boasts numerous incredible historic homes to explore and a lot of these houses are from the Gilded Age of Charleston.
You will take pleasure in exploring these homes from the fashions of the Antebellum and Victorian periods.
Marvel at Charleston’s rich history as you observe how the households resided in these remarkable historic homes.
Most of the homes require 30 minutes to one hour for a tour.
Ensure that you verify when they're conducting tours as each one is unique with varying times and days.
10. Flight Adventure Park
In case you’re in the North Charleston vicinity and searching for a fun trampoline to escape the rain, be sure to visit this park.
It is an excellent spot for the entire family to have fun together.
While here, ensure to explore all the various attractions.
Attempt to outdo each other's times at their Ninja Warrior or focus on your Acrobatic ability with their Aerial Silks.
Also, navigate through their Inflatable Obstacle to determine who maintains the Slackline's best balance.
Then, take pleasure in the open sessions featuring the spacious free-jumping trampoline.
11. Read a Book on Your Porch
Among the most enjoyable activities in Charleston during a rainy day is unwinding on your porch.
This implies that you should ensure that you reside in a good hotel that has a porch, so you’ll remain dry while still having a chance to enjoy some outdoor moments.
In fact, in almost every single house in Charleston, it's understandable that there is a porch.
So, whether you're spending just 2 days or a week in Charleston, make sure to take a bit of time to relax on your porch.
12. USS Yorktown
Try to visit the stunning USS Yorktown on a rainy day in Charleston, and then proceed to USS Laffey, called the destroyer which was in service from 1944 until 1975.
Afterward, you should head towards Vietnam Experience.
The place is constructed like the USMC artillery and its exhibit features 4 helicopters to observe.
It’s among the finest historical places in Charleston and an excellent location to bring your children to study military history.
13. Sky Zone
With Skyslam, experience Sky Zone’s take on basketball or engage in your favorite activity using Freestyle Jump.
Also, engage in a competitive match of Final Volleyball or Ultimate Dodgeball.
Then, elevate your abilities to new heights with the Warped Wall, Parkour Blox, and the Skyladder.
14. Charleston Jail
You can't visit Charleston without indulging in the paranormal.
Choose to go on a Charleston jail haunted tour to satisfy your indoor eerie cravings.
This Charleston Jail housed several infamous criminals, including Lavinia Fisher, the USA's female initial serial killer (allegedly).
You will also discover extensive dark history, including the horrific treatment of inmates and mistreatment from guards, while also experiencing some frights
The guides for this tour are great as well.
15. Gibbs Museum
Upon its opening in 1905, this museum featured “The Power ofArt” honored by USA in Charleston.
The nation recognized that art is employed to spark creativity, mend the wounded, and nurture the spirit.
Even, this museum is the sole visual arts Charleston museum.
It offers a free 1st-floor visit for every visitor to explore and enjoy incredible works of art.
However, the exhibitions on the third and second levels do need tickets.
Numerous permanent displays here highlight remarkable pieces like those from the 20th Century Charleston Renaissance and American Regionalism, Mary Jackson’s Modern & Contemporary Gallery, and Betwixt & Between.
The museum likewise hosts approximately six to eight special exhibitions annually.
So, go ahead, visit, and explore some amazing artworks on a Charleston rainy day.
16. Top Golf
Whether or not you love golf, this location is a lot of fun.
It is an excellent spot to gather with colleagues or bring your family to enjoy a joyful, leisurely experience striking golf balls.
In fact, you can enjoy numerous rainy evenings and afternoons in this place.
At the lovely Top Golf, you'll find two levels featuring a dining area and bars.
However, as its name suggests, this place majorly focuses on striking golf balls.
Even, there are more than 70 all-climate areas to sway your clubs here.
Also, to enhance excitement and enjoyment, they offer fantastic games merged with it.
You can challenge one another in games such as Top Score, Top Chip, Jewel Jam, Quick 9, and plenty more.
17. Pounce Cafe
On a Charleston rainy day, why not visit Pounce Cafe to enjoy some playtime with a few cats while you sip wine or tea?
Pounce Cafe stands as a woman-owned establishment that rescues cats from Charleston’s Animal Society.
The cats can be adopted thus you could discover your new pal during a rainy noon.
Also, by adopting, you are endorsing a remarkable cause by assisting in the socialization of these cats.
18. Children’s Museum ofThe Lowcountry
The staff members of this museum are helpful and proud of educating and assisting children.
Also, you will find an arts center here for households to collaboratively produce artistic creations.
This is truly a wonderful location for family connections.
Even, the museum features an exhibit designed exclusively for children.
Kidstory is an interactive storytelling platform on display for children to learn about and investigate Charleston’s history.
Indeed, this museum is genuinely among the finest locations to bring your child on a rainy day.
19. Charleston Malls
Charleston offers excellent shopping malls everywhere.
So, make sure to savor these malls featuring excellent shops.
They are designed for walking between shops with external entry.
The malls aren't designed like conventional malls where you'll remain indoors the whole time.
You'll also discover excellent dining spots across the mall regions as well.
20. Food Tour
The City of Charleston is a remarkable culinary hotspot and at any moment, a magnificent eatery will be situated just a short walk away from you.
You can initially conduct research on the top restaurants in Charleston.
Select a group in close proximity to one another, then head to them and try out various meals at every venue.
Undoubtedly, grits and shrimp, BBQ ribs, and banana cream pie are ideal solutions for relieving any rainy day in Charleston.
However, if you can't organize your own tour, I would suggest reserving a Culinary Tour in Charleston Downtown where you’ll encounter numerous other “food enthusiasts” and discover everything regarding Charleston’s amazing cuisine together with them.
21. Charleston Museum
This museum, established in 1773, is America's first museum.
It was initially accessible to the general public in the year 1824, although it was briefly shut down during the war.
The museum is presently situated in Charleston and was finished in 1980.
Here, you can find many excellent displays to explore and discover.
Firstly, begin with History of the Lowcountry.
Discover those Native Americans who lived in the region, the settlers, the conflicts that affected the region, and the enslaved Black Americans.
Next, check out Becoming Americans, where Charleston played a vital contribution to the American Revolutionary War in order to gain independence as a nation.
Subsequently, the Bunting History Gallery narrates the tale of the Lowcountry region’s natural history.
Also, discover Charleston and Civil War through the City Under Siege's exhibit.
You will additionally have the choice to buy two historic residence tours while in the museum.
These historic residences are Joseph Manigault Residence and Heyward-Washington Residence.
22. Movie Watching
An excellent method to enjoy yourself and escape the rain while unwinding in Charleston is viewing an excellent film at a cinema.
There are continually many wonderful movies released all year round, making it always a good choice to watch movies.
Even, during the summer, watching movies is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors for a short period.
23. Calhoun Mansion
Going on a tour to Calhoun Mansion stands as a fantastic experience for a Charleston rainy day.
Although certain house tours feature visits to the gardens and outdoor areas, the tour of Calhoun Mansion keeps you completely dry inside.
It typically lasts an hour approximately.
Calhoun Mansion isn't precisely renovated to how it appeared in the 1800s.
However, numerous beautiful antiques within the mansion take you to the excessively luxurious Gilded Era.
Additionally, a trip to this mansion resembles embarking on a magnificent journey across the globe.
The assortment here includes items from remote areas of the world.
24. Charleston’s City Market
The City of Charleston is an excellent place for shopping.
You will discover that many people enjoy shopping across the city, and numerous choices are available everywhere for shopping all around the Charleston metropolitan region.
Also, some people enjoy browsing in the historical district, while others love to check out certain mall sections that have incredible shopping choices.
On either side of this City Market, you'll discover numerous shops.
In this place, you have the opportunity to buy nearly any memento from Charleston.
Also, at the market, you'll enter a space that assisted Charleston's development over the centuries as a big city.
This region is abundant in lots of history and contributed to shaping Charleston into how it is now.
Note that you should pay attention to the weather while shopping.
In the event of heavy rainfall, particularly during high tide, it is likely that this market will experience flooding.
Conclusion
Charleston continues to offer numerous wonderful attractions and activities for an adventure on rainy days.
From delving into the city's vibrant past to enjoying tasty dishes and beverages, there is a variety for all to relish.
Regardless of whether you decide to engage in thought-provoking museums or snuggle up inside the theater to enjoy a mesmerizing movie, Charleston offers precisely what you require for any rainy day.
This article will help you figure out the best activities in Charleston during rainy days.
So, don't allow a bit of rain to lower your mood. Welcome the chances that a day of rain provides and take advantage of your schedule in this delightful city.
