Charleston In Winter: 11 Things to Do in Charleston This Winter
Charleston in winter is our little secret, when every corner feels like it's there just for you. Winter presents an idyllic time to visit Charleston due to its gentle climate that, unlike the extreme cold found elsewhere, offers a comfortable backdrop for all sorts of adventures. Discover the best activities and places to see in December through February.
Why Winter Is a Great Time of Year to Enjoy Charleston
This season, the Holy City gives us room to roam and breathe, wrapped in slightly crisp air but spared from harsh cold. The pace slows down, letting you savor each moment. This time of year, you can leisurely explore the historical sights and discover joy in finding local cafes and outdoor activities without the summer heat. Charleston's average temperatures from December to February, over a 10-year average, are between 47° F (8.3° C) to 52° F (11.1° C).
The city unveils a more tranquil, intimate setting, with the tourist crowds thinning out. This decrease in tourists makes for a more personal experience. It leads to more competitive pricing in accommodations and attractions, making a getaway to Charleston in the winter more enjoyable and economical (excluding busy Christmas and New Year's). Book ahead for lower hotel rates and flight fares.
The combination of agreeable weather, the ease of navigating less crowded spaces, and the potential for savings are compelling reasons to choose Charleston as your next winter destination.
11 Things To Do In Charleston This Winter
Enjoy The Beaches Even in Winter
All Season
Believe it or not, Charleston's beaches in winter have their own kind of magic. The summer and fall crowds have thinned, leaving stretches of sand open for serene walks and contemplative moments by the sea. It's the season when you can bundle up and watch the sunrise with a cup of hot coffee, feeling like you've got the whole beach to yourself. The water might be too brisk to swim, but the peace is unbeatable. So, grab a cozy sweater and head to Folly Beach or Sullivan's Island. A seaside walk is a beautiful Charleston experience, mixing the thrill of the ocean with the gentle touch of winter.
Walk the Streets Comfortably
All Season
Winter in Charleston beckons you to wear your coziest scarf and embark on a walking adventure through its enchanting streets. The air is crisp and refreshing, with the mercury gently dipping—perfect for meandering past grand antebellum homes and through vibrant market squares. Explore the hues of King Street, which transforms into a bustling pedestrian-only zone from 1-6 pm every second Sunday, allowing you to stroll freely among the street's eclectic shops and historical facades without the interference of vehicles.
Venture towards The Battery for a stroll, which shows its enduring grace and charm even in the winter. Along your journey, allow the inviting glow of quaint cafes to beckon you inside, where the promise of rich, steaming coffee offers a warm interlude from the chill.
Explore Charleston on a Historic Carriage Ride or a Festive "Sleigh" Ride
Historic Carriage Tour - All Season
Holiday "Sleigh" Ride -Select Afternoons/Evenings Nov 30-Dec 23
There’s no better way to see Charleston than on a Historical Carriage Tour any time of year! Hop on board the carriage hosted by a beautiful Belgian and Percheron draft horse and a friendly and knowledgeable guide. This team will share Charleston’s storied past on a delightful, leisurely ride that’ll have you falling in love with the city’s rich history. Book your Historic Carriage Tour right here.
If you’re looking for something extra special for the holidays and something extra special for the kids, a Holiday "Sleigh" Ride is a must-do! Ride on a festively decorated carriage, with one of Santa’s elves at the reins, for a joyful 30-minute tour through historic Charleston. There’s caroling, there’s laughter, and the grand finale? A visit to Santa’s stable for hot cocoa and cookies with Old St. Nick himself. These tickets go faster than you can say “ho ho ho,” so snag your Holiday "Sleigh" Ride tickets today!
Enjoy the Holiday Festivities Around the City
Throughout December
Charleston dons its holiday best in December, transforming into a wonderland that'll surely put a twinkle in your eye. Discover the Holiday Festival of Boats, visit a bustling Christmas Holiday Market, enjoy a Santa "Sleigh" ride, and discover so much more during Charleston at Christmas.
For those seeking non-festive activities or who want to mix up the fun, Charleston boasts an array of delightful experiences to enjoy throughout December.
Countdown to New Year's
December 31, 2024
Gather under the glow of Charleston's night sky as we bid farewell to the old and usher in the new. The city buzzes with excitement, from waterfront fireworks that dance over the harbor to spirited gatherings in its historic streets. It's a time of reflection, joy, and looking forward with hope—a quintessential Charleston celebration to start your year on a high note.
The Yorktown Countdown, Charleston’s premier New Year’s Eve party aboard the historic aircraft carrier, offers superb harbor and skyline views. Savor the open bar and delight in gourmet bites while DJs and bands set the festive mood.
Charleston's Unique Polar Plunge
January 1, 2025
This unique event honors one of Charleston’s most beloved comedians, Bill Murray! The Polar Bear Plunge starts from the beach beside the Tides Hotel in Folly Beach and promises a lively costume contest, special commemorative t-shirts, and a daring dip into the brisk Atlantic waters. Everyone is encouraged to dress up, ideally as your favorite Bill Murray character, and prepare to ‘freeze your bills off.’
Savor the Best of Charleston Cuisine at Restaurant Week
January 9-19, 2025
Charleston is already a foodie's dream come to life, y'all. It's a chance to dive fork-first into the complex tapestry of flavors our city prides itself on. From down-home Southern comforts to avant-garde dishes that challenge the palate, Charleston's chefs pull out all the stops. Mark your calendar for January 2025, when the flavors of Charleston take center stage across the state for Restaurant Week South Carolina. From intimate bistros in the city's heart to award-winning establishments along the coast, participating restaurants from all over will serve their culinary masterpieces. Low Country Hospitality Association members contribute to the event's palette of flavors, ensuring a robust and varied taste journey.
Hit The Ground Running at the Charleston Half Marathon
January 25, 2025
The Charleston Half Marathon is a highlight event in Charleston, SC in winter and offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the city's picturesque landscapes with a dash of competitive spirit.
The race begins as dawn breaks, casting a soft light on Charleston's signature pastel-hued houses. Pass by iconic landmarks, including the historic Charleston City Market, Battery Park, and White Point Gardens. There’s a collective sense of achievement, a shared passion that transcends the winter chill, which is the ideal temperature for a running race! Locally-made energy snacks and beverages at various checkpoints provide a taste of Southern hospitality and keep the momentum high. And nothing beats the warm community vibes at the end when finishers celebrate together amidst cheers and high-fives. This event also includes other distance races, including a Youth Marathon and a 5K run. For the joy of achievement and the thrill of exploring Charleston in winter, don’t just visit—run it!
Winter Is Oyster Season!
February 2, 2025
If y'all thought Charleston couldn't get any better, wait 'til you experience oyster season in the winter! It's the time when those succulent mollusks are at their peak, just begging to be shucked and enjoyed! The Lowcountry Oyster Festival is the largest festival of its kind in the world! Held at Boone Hall Plantation, this lively event includes main stage music, shucking contests, and food showcasing a variety of favorite restaurants to complement everyone's taste. Before the event closes, over 50,000 pounds of oysters will be served. We're sure there is more than enough available for you and an opportunity to pick up a shucking skill or two. If you miss the festival, several restaurants in Charleston also host special oyster roast events throughout the season, offering a chance to taste and enjoy these delectable shellfish.
Go Deep Discovering the Great Outdoors at Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
February 14-16, 2025
Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature at the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition. This celebration of wildlife, nature, and the great outdoors brings together folks with a deep passion for the outdoor lifestyle, showcasing everything from wildlife art to conservation education. The event includes live wildlife demonstrations, talks from leading conservationists, and hands-on experiences that connect you to the wild in ways you've never imagined! It’s a place where art meets adventure, where you can admire the skill of nature photographers one moment and learn the art of fly-fishing the next.
Explore the Museums
All Season
Dive into an indoor activity to uncover Charleston's history and culture by exploring its diverse museums this winter.
The Charleston Museum, America's first museum, offers a comprehensive overview of South Carolina's cultural and natural history. Visitors are treated to a wide array of artifacts, ranging from ancient fossils to Civil War memorabilia, encapsulating the region's diverse heritage. It's an adventure through time from the prehistoric age to the present day.
Just as compelling, the Gibbes Museum of Art serves as a beacon for art lovers, showcasing an impressive collection of American art with a strong focus on Charleston and the South. Here, you can admire works from the Colonial period to contemporary art, providing a vivid narrative of the area's rich artistic evolution.
Another stop on your museum journey should be the H.L. Hunley Submarine. This pioneering submarine, the first to sink an enemy ship, unravels the mysteries and sacrifices of naval warfare during the Civil War. It's a remarkable history of being lost at sea for over a century. Since its excavation, this fascinating time capsule holds hundreds of artifacts that teach us about life during the American Civil War.
These museums offer an opportunity to touch the pages of history and truly understand our past's heroic and adventurous spirit, making a visit an essential stop for museum lovers.
Now you have it: Charleston's winters are just as full of adventures as its summers. To discover more about Charleston any time of the year, visit our blog for more tips and information on things to do in the holy city.
