This South Carolina Tour Is One Of The Best Things To Do In The Entire United States

When I decided to browse the TripAdvisor list of the best things to do in the United States, I wasn't particularly expecting to see either Carolina represented on the list. There are some incredible experiences on the list. Things like whale watching in Alaska, visiting NIagra Falls, parasailing in Hawaii, and a 4 hour swim with the manatees in Florida. But then I came across the 23rd item on this list of 25. It's a Charleston South Carolina historical city walking tour with a Professor of History at The Citadel.

Charleston is deservedly so, one of the most talked about cities in the United States. Tourists flock to this historical city full of southern charm and delicious food. Even still I didn't think a walking tour of this magnificent city would be amongst the top activities in all of the US. But the experts have spoken. The 2.5 hour tour explores the history of the city with Eric Lager, Ph.D. It's limited to 10 guests so you have the opportunity to ask plenty of questions. And the best part? It's $35 per adult.

Among the destinations you'll visit on this tour are the Mills House Charleston, Dock Street Theater, Pink House Gallery, and the Fort Sumter National Monument. According to Lager, his tour offers a "degree of exclusivity and historical depth" that the other larger tour companies just aren't able to provide. You can learn more about the tour and schedule yours here.

How were these activities selected for this top 25 list from TripAdvisor? TripAdvisor says that the Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Things to Do have "a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews" from users over a 12-month period. Fewer than 1% of Tripadvisor’s 8 million listings are awarded Best of the Best. You can read the full list here.

Call me a simp, but I may or may not miss home from time to time. I was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina and as much as I was ready to get out of there, it still holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, I use to think there was never much of anything to do. Don't get me wrong, some things are questionable but it's still home for me.

I don't go home often, but whenever people tell me they're going to Charleston I love telling them places to go and things to do. It's no fun being simple and going to the same old boring spots that everyone knows about. Sometimes being a local gives me the upper hand to know what places to recommend. So, I decided to put a list together of 5 spots that most people don't tell you about whenever you're visiting. I'm not saying these aren't places you may have not heard of, but it's places and things that hold a special place in my heart. So, let's take a crack at it!

If it's one thing I am going to do, it's eat some GREAT seafood when I am home. Everyone knows all of the popular sit-down, fancy restaurants around Downtown and Mt. Pleasant, but I know more local hole in the wall spots. My grandma has been in the same house since she was born in Downtown Charleston and this seafood spots is right around the corner. Dave's is my favorite place to eat whenever I am home. The small corner spot is serving hot, fresh seafood that will make you melt. I always enjoy the shrimp platter and it's nothing like it. The hours are a bit weird, but it's so worth it if you can catch them when they're open.

Nexton is a new area in the Summerville area, but it's well worth the visit. In Nexton, you will find plenty of food places and shopping, and homes to sightsee. From Viscous Biscuit having a line out the door during brunch, Bad Daddy's Burger Bar, Halls Chophouse, Ever Creamery, and so much more. If you want to just relax and enjoy a good day out in the sun, Nexton is a great spot to check out.

Check out Sullivan's Island if you are wanting the beach feels, but not to much of the crowd. Sullivan's Island is perfect spot to enjoy the beach and relax but not the complete chaos that Folly Beach and Isle of Palms may have. Trust me when I say, there is a difference. Either way, you're on the beach and can grab a bite to eat when you're free.

If you're looking for something cute and new to do, then head to the North Charleston Farmer's Market. Enjoy so many fresh things from bread, fruit, vegetables, and so much more. There will also be tons of local baked goods from Charleston's famous chewies to so much more! Sounds like a good time, doesn't it?

Oddly enough, many people don't know that Charleston has a water park. Yes, a water park. There are water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and more to enjoy. Head to Whirlin' Waters in North Charleston if you want to enjoy a good time with water not at the beach. There is plenty to do and you can grab some good food while you're there. Fun fact, I used to work there in the food services department.