Top Things To Do Memorial Day Weekend: Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina, is clearly our favorite city in the USA, and it’s also a vibrant city with a rich history and a plethora of activities perfect for celebrating Memorial Day. Here are the top things to do to celebrate this special holiday weekend.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

A visit to Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is a great way to honor the spirit of Memorial Day. Located in Mount Pleasant, just over the Ravanel Bridge and just a few minutes from downtown, the museum is home to the USS Yorktown, a historic aircraft carrier. It is South Carolina’s largest museum, and is a one-of-a-kind museum that includes three Navy vessels, 28 historic aircraft, and an immersive 2.5-acre Vietnam Experience that tells the story of the Vietnam War using advanced technology. The museum is also home to the Medal of Honor Museum.” Visitors can explore the ship, learn about naval history, and also pay their respects to all of the soldiers and service members who have served our country. The museum often hosts special events and ceremonies on Memorial Day, providing a meaningful way to commemorate the holiday.

Folly Beach

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, making it a perfect time to visit Folly Beach. Just a short and picturesque drive from downtown Charleston (take Harborview Road and go the long way), Folly Beach offers a true beach town and beautiful sandy shores. We love the distinct surfer chill vibe that you won’t find elsewhere in the Charleston area, and the waves simply can’t be beat. In fact, we’ve heard they are some of the best on the East Coast.

Here on the island you’ll enjoy a quaint downtown with many restaurant and shopping options along with a lively pier that just underwent a new renovation. And the natural environment is an absolute haven for sun seekers and water enthusiasts alike, offering activities from surfing to shelling to kayaking. Spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming in the ocean, or enjoying water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. After a day at the beach, make sure to check out the local restaurants and bars and take in some live music.

Charleston’s Historic District

Even though Charleston is a tourist Mecca this time of year, we love the opportunity to take a stroll downtown and appreciate the city's rich heritage, stunning architecture, and of course oodles of tourists (makes for great people watching). Whether it’s visiting some of the city’s most iconic sights like Rainbow Row and the Battery, or just heading to King Street or Market Street for some shopping and eats, we love the lively vibe that puts us in a great mood.

Memorial Day Field of Honor at Marion Square

Join locals and visitors alike for the annual Memorial Day at Marion Square. “Honor our fallen heroes on Monday, May 27 by visiting the Charleston Field of Honor in Marion Square. Your ticket will get you one flag to place on the field to remember those who lost their lives. Tickets for flags serve as a donation to help support local Charleston veterans and families. A suggested donation of $15-$50 is recommended.

Whether you’re honoring the nation’s heroes or simply enjoying the start of summer, Charleston provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday weekend.