The historic charm of Charleston captured at sunset with St. Michaels Church and Broad Street
adobe stock
An Independent Traveler’s Guide to the Holy City.
Imagine stepping off the plane (or car, bus or train) in Charleston, and the initial solo traveler jitters hit you, making you wonder if you made a mistake going alone. But then they quickly dissipate as you encounter friendly locals and feel the warm embrace of the city's southern hospitality. The scent of jasmine wafts through the air, as you notice its vines clinging to historic homes lining the streets. As you stroll along the uneven brick streets after years of walking, the rhythmic clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages and distant laughter from restaurant patios create a welcoming soundtrack that eases any lingering anxiety. You feel right at home here.
Charleston’s charm lies not just in its picturesque historic district but also in its ability to balance freedom with connection. With its renowned hospitality, Charleston ensures that you never feel truly alone, offering a blend of solo exploration and social connection that makes your journey both empowering and unforgettable.
Downtown’s walkability means popular sites cluster close together, with sidewalks on almost every historic street adorned with blooming flowers, restaurants, shops, art galleries and parks. You’ll appreciate the reliable public transit options, including the free CARTA Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) in the historic district, bike rentals and the CARTA Bus System that make navigating effortless.
When exploring Charleston solo, you’ll find dozens of AAA partner hotels (including Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, Marriott and Wyndham). For a more intimate stay, boutique accommodations (also bookable through AAA) offer the perfect blend of luxury, convenience and social opportunities.
The Ryder Hotel appeals to modern solo adventurers seeking a stylish downtown base with a vibrant social scene. The poolside bar attracts both travelers and locals, making interactions a breeze, while in-room spa treatments provide perfect relaxation after a day of exploration.
History buffs will love Zero George Street’s blend of historic architecture and modern comforts. Beyond complimentary bikes and personalized service, you’ll appreciate their sustainability efforts, including plant-based water cartons and eco-friendly operations.
HarbourView Inn pampers solo visitors with stunning water views and thoughtful touches like complimentary breakfast and evening wine receptions. Live out your “Notebook”-inspired romance with their special package, which includes a dozen roses in your room, a private carriage ride for two and more.
Tip: The AAA Mobile app helps you find your perfect Charleston stay as a solo traveler. The app boasts personalized filters for cleanliness (look for the elite “Best of Housekeeping” badge), while offering member-exclusive discounts at over 164,000 locations. To identify sustainable properties, read through detailed hotel descriptions and Diamond ratings.
Must-do experiences for a solo trip
With a mix of peaceful solo exploration and fun group activities, you’ll find options to match every mood.
The timeless allure of Charleston's architecture is available on every street you venture down.
Explore Charleston's historic neighborhoods on foot or by bike to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and architectural beauty. Start in Harleston Village, in the center of downtown with its picturesque tree-lined streets and beautiful homes, and meander through the iconic College of Charleston. Visit Colonial Lake for a serene walk or jog away from the city's bustle.
In Ansonborough, discover a historic district with beautifully restored homes and rich architectural heritage. Its proximity to King Street and the Charleston City Market creates an ideal base for exploration. Appreciate the neighborhood's tranquil atmosphere and historic homes dating back to the 18th century.
The Boroughs—Radcliffeborough, Ansonborough, Cannonborough-Elliottborough and Wraggborough—blend historical charm with modern energy. Visit Marion Square to mingle with locals and enjoy community events like the Charleston Food and Wine Festival, Charleston Fashion Week and the South Eastern Wildlife Expo. Cannonborough-Elliottborough stands out with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and galleries ideal for solo discovery.
Charleston-themed travel mugs..
courtesy of explore charleston, explorecharleston.com
Pop into the Charleston Farmers Market every Saturday (June through December) at Marion Square for fresh produce, local crafts and live music, offering a vibrant community atmosphere. On Friday and Saturday nights, Charleston City Market (located between Church Street and East Bay Street) transforms into a lively street fair with over 200 local artists, food vendors and live music. Experience Second Sunday on King Street, where the street closes to traffic, allowing you to stroll, shop, dine and immerse yourself in local culture.
Exploring Charleston's natural beauty together, where lush landscapes and shared adventures create unforgettable memories.
coastal expeditions
Whether by land or water, carriage or foot, group tours let you explore the city, meet new people and learn fascinating local history from expert guides.
Savor renowned Lowcountry cuisine, thanks to Downtown Charleston Culinary Tour. This 2.5-hour journey stops at four local eateries for iconic dishes like shrimp and grits. Join The Original Pub Tour of Charleston to visit historic taverns as local guides serve a blend of history and local beverages for a thirst-quenching gathering.
Dive into Charleston's past with Bulldog Tours' guided walking excursions along cobblestone streets, antebellum homes and hidden gardens. Or explore the city's spooky side with ghost tours, accessing exclusive graveyards and cemeteries.
Gliding through Charleston's scenic waterways, where adventure meets tranquility, and history gives way to endless exploration.
carolina rain photography
For an on-the-water experience, hop on a boat tour of the Charleston Harbor. Local vendors like Coastal Expeditions provide live narrated tours highlighting the city's coastal beauty and historic waterfront. Or enjoy a quintessential horse and carriage tour for a classic perspective on Charleston's magnificent architecture and storied history.
Connect with Charleston's natural wonders for a different side of the city.
Join Casual Crabbing with Tia to experience crabbing and fishing while learning about Gullah culture and local conservation efforts. Witness flight demonstrations at the Center for Birds of Prey, a unique avian conservatory in nearby Awendaw and home to owls, hawks and eagles.
Need a burst of activity? For an adrenaline rush, head to Charleston Adventure Forest for zip lines, rock climbing and animal encounters in a lush forest setting. Explore Charleston County Parks’ 12 amenity-filled locations offering climbing walls, tennis courts, paddleboat rentals, fishing piers, picnic areas, bike paths and nature trails.
A rhythmic performance at the Spoleto Festival, where the soulful beats of the bongos bring Charleston's vibrant arts scene to life.
Sachyn Mital
Charleston's rich cultural scene awaits solo travelers. The annual 17-day Spoleto Festival USA (May 23-June 8, 2025) transforms the city into a vibrant cultural hub featuring opera, dance, theater and music performances—ideal for experiencing world-class art and meeting fellow cultural enthusiasts.
For a glimpse into southern culture, visit Jonathan Green Studios, where you can admire the vibrant paintings of this acclaimed artist known for capturing the essence of American and African American southern traditions.
Join the Charleston Gallery Association Art Walk on First Friday ArtWalks every month except January and July. Visit over 40 galleries showcasing local and international art while enjoying music and refreshments—a perfect way to connect with the local art community.
Sipping a refreshing Charleston classic under the golden hues of a rooftop sunset, where every moment feels timeless.
Tips for exploring alone
1. Navigating the city. Maximize your solo adventure with the AAA Mobile app's TripTik feature to map efficient routes between Charleston's attractions. The app helps you locate the nearest and cheapest gas stations and provides real-time traffic updates, saving precious exploration time. Download offline maps before venturing to areas with spotty cell service, and use the app's roadside assistance feature for peace of mind when traveling alone.
2. Dining solo. Charleston's culinary scene welcomes solo diners. Look for AAA Diamond designations to find exceptional dining experiences at every price point. Try The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits for stunning sunset views over Charleston Harbor that complement their local seafood—perfect for enjoying your own company.
3. Meeting new people. Check the Explore Charleston calendar of events like the North Charleston Arts Fest and High Tide Festival. Join cooking classes at Zero Restaurant + Bar to bond with others over shared culinary interests.
As your Charleston solo adventure concludes, you'll depart with more than photos and souvenirs. You'll carry the warmth of new connections, the confidence that comes from navigating a city independently, and the distinct feeling that Charleston wasn't just a destination—it was an empowering experience.
Discover Charleston Your Way — Let AAA Handle the Details!Ready to explore the charm, history, and coastal beauty of Charleston? Our knowledgeable AAA Travel Agents make planning effortless—from booking top-rated hotels to crafting custom itineraries. Skip the stress and start your journey with confidence.