In one of America's most beautiful and historic cities, remnants of the genteel South and 300 years of history are everywhere. Hundreds of lovingly preserved Colonial and Antebellum structures grace the Historic District and the skyline is punctuated by the steeples and spires of "The Holy City's" 181 churches.


From the wilderness cabins of the earliest settlers, to the thriving plantations of a world that lives on in our national lore - long after the Civil War changed everything - you'll feel as if you know this place well. Venture to Charles Towne Landing, the site of the original English settlement in 1670. Explore Patriots Point, the world's largest naval and maritime museum, then Fort Moultrie, scene of the first decisive American victory in the Revolution. Take a scenic boat tour to Fort Sumter,where the Civil War began, and cruise to the fabled plantations along the river.

Relax and play in the surf on the numerous beaches and play a few championship rounds in this town that gave America its first golf course. Condé Nast Traveler magazine regularly rates Charleston among the Top Ten Destinations in America, though its best recommendation may be the one given by a roguish fictional character. As Rhett leaves Scarlett in the final moments of Gone With the Wind, he says he's going back to Charleston, where he can find "the calm dignity life can have when it's lived by gentle folks, the genial grace of days that are gone."