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Visiting Downtown Charleston – The 7 Things You Need to See

Visiting Downtown Charleston – The 7 Things You Need to See

You’ve decided to take a trip to Charleston but you’re not sure which sights should make it to your bucket list. Discover the top sites you need to see in Charleston, West Virginia.

West Virginia is home to some of the top-rated tourist attractions in the United States. And Charleston is the state’s capital and largest city. No wonder it has so many tourist places, mostly due to its apropos riverside location.

There are parks, museums, shopping streets, and amazing historical landmarks to explore. But whether you’re planning to visit museums or go hiking, you’ll have a long must-visit list.

Here are seven suggestions of tourist locations in Charleston you need to see during your stay in this city.

1. State Capitol

One of Charleston’s most impressive buildings, the State Capitol also has the highest state dome in the US.

The gorgeous design in golden and blue will leave you speechless. After all, it looks very unique compared to other state capitol buildings.

But you have to take the guided tour to truly get to know its glory inside and see the beautiful crystal chandeliers and marble walls. The tour won’t take more than an hour and it’s undoubtedly worth your time.

2. West Virginia State Museum

If you’re to only visit one museum, let it be the West Virginia State Museum – there’s so much to learn here! You’ll hear stories about the Civil War and the beginnings of the American coal industry on the guided tour.

The museum also covers prehistoric times, so expect interesting displays of fossils and other archaeological finds. And that’s not all. You can also see an original settler’s cabin and watch short films about different events in West Virginia’s history.

3. Kanawha State Forest

Are you up for spending time in nature? Pay a visit to the Kanawha State Forest when you feel ready to take a break from downtown Charleston.

It’s actually a state park and one of the most beautiful places to see in Charleston. The park is a recreational area ideal for those on an active vacation, as it’s suitable for cycling, walking, or running.

Hikers will also find some delightful trails here. Most of them are short and not too demanding, like the Davis Creek Trail. There’s also the Rocky Ridge Trail with amazing views of the city for those unafraid of challenges.

You can make use of the campground on warm weather days and turn the vacation into a real adventure. And if you’re visiting with kids, there are playgrounds, picnic areas, a swimming pool, and a public shooting range.

4. Capitol Street

Capitol Street is the central shopping hub of the city. When visiting Charleston, it’s a spot you can’t afford to miss if you want to experience the West Virginian capital’s authentic spirit.

But this famous street offers more than fancy boutiques and souvenir shops. It’s also where you’ll find some of the oldest historical buildings that are maintained immaculately. There are also plenty of cozy restaurants, bookstores, galleries, and street events. And the street leads to the legendary Capitol Market, the most popular farmers market in West Virginia.

5. Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center

If you’re wondering what other attractions to see in Charleston, WV, here’s an idea. The Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center.

This large complex includes three centers. They are the Convention Center, the Civic Center Coliseum, and the Little Theater. The place has been welcoming tourists for more than 60 years. It’s where the city organizes various events like fairs, concerts, and car shows.

The center looks impressive from the outside, too. After all, there have been many improvements done on the buildings over the years. No wonder the complex is among the most modern-looking ones in Charleston.

6. Governor’s Mansion

Designed by Walter F. Martens, an American architect who plied his trade in Charleston, the mansion is a symbol of the state’s glorious past. Right next to the Kanawha River, the construction of the house was only completed in 1925. It’s now where the Governor of West Virginia resides.

The inside of the traditional Georgian colonial mansion is the stuff of fables. There’s a grand ballroom, a dining room with an enormous banquet table, and a breathtaking library – 30 rooms in total.

Guided tours are on for Thursdays and Fridays. Just remember to book in advance. If you manage to do so, you’ll be able to see all the spectacular rooms of the governor’s house.

7. East End Historical District

This district is one of the most interesting places in Charleston. It spans the neighborhood around the State Capitol in an extraordinary blend of the traditional and modern. You can find almost any form of art here – from historic statues to urban graffiti.

The State Capitol is, of course, the most significant part of the district. It’s also where you can find the Holly Grove Mansion, the oldest building in the neighborhood that first opened in 1815.

East End is also a great place to take a walk or grab a bite while enjoying the view, being located along a river.

A One-of-a-Kind Mix of History and Modern Culture

Arriving at your next travel destination may not be an easy decision. But Charleston, WV, makes it easier for you to decide if you’re heading to that part of the East.

It’s a unique combination of culture, history, and nature so you’re going to have a thoroughly planned-out vacation. The charming city promises a lot of memorable moments and it delivers in spades.

Although there’s much more to see in West Virginia, these seven tourist locations in Charleston are a good start. So make your list, grab your bags, and get ready to explore.

Weekend Getaways

Oceanside’s Farm-to-Table Dining: A Foodie’s Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of devouring a just-plucked salad while staring at the Pacific, then buckle up, buttercup—Oceanside farm-to-table dining is calling your name.

Tucked between sun-soaked beaches and rolling inland hills, this Southern California gem has quietly grown into a haven for food lovers who like their meals local, their chefs bold, and their plates—well, Instagram-ready.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone who really really likes brunch, Oceanside farm-to-table dining offers more than sea views. We’re talking heirloom tomatoes kissed by morning fog, craft cocktails that double as magic tricks, and chefs who are basically artists with aprons. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting fed, farm-fresh style.

What Is Oceanside Farm-to-Table Dining, Really?

Let’s clear the table for a sec. Farm-to-table isn’t just some trendy buzzword chefs slap on menus to sound eco-chic. At its core, it means sourcing ingredients locally—often directly from farms—and serving them up with minimal processing and maximum flavor. In Oceanside, this goes beyond just taste. It’s a philosophy. A lifestyle. Dare we say… a movement?

And the best part? You’re supporting local growers, reducing your carbon footprint, and probably tasting the juiciest strawberry of your life. Win-win-win.

Best Oceanside Farm-to-Table Restaurants You Need to Try

1. The Plot

Facade of The Plot restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

This zero-waste, plant-based spot is straight-up revolutionary. Their ingredients come from their own nearby farm, and the dishes? Think beet poke, jackfruit tacos, and other delicious curveballs that even die-hard carnivores can’t resist. Oh, and they compost everything. If guilt-free indulgence had a home address, this would be it.

2. Dija Mara

A group of people eating at Dija Mara restaurant in Oceanside CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Farm-to-table meets Southeast Asian street food in a vibe-heavy spot that’s as edgy as it is flavorful. The grilled octopus is legendary, and if you skip the charred broccolini, you’re doing it wrong. The chef draws heavily from local produce, giving traditional Balinese flavors a SoCal twist. It’s bold, it’s funky, and it absolutely slaps.

3. Piper at The Seabird Resort

Menu at Piper restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Theseabirdresort.com. (2025). Available at: https://theseabirdresort.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Piper doesn’t mess around. Set inside a dreamy oceanside resort, this airy spot serves up locally-sourced everything—from the eggs in your shakshuka to the basil in your spritz. It’s coastal chic meets farmers market brunch, with a pastry chef who deserves a standing ovation. Try the house-made granola, and prepare to get hooked.

4. Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub

Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub. Oceanside farm-to-table dining. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2022). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Don’t let the name throw you. This place is an Oceanside staple, known for its punk-rock approach to sushi and unwavering dedication to sustainability. Chef Davin Waite works with local fishermen and farms to craft rolls that are inventive, wild, and weirdly poetic. Like a sea urchin haiku with a wasabi kick.

Markets & Makers: Take the Experience Home

Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market. Oceanside farm-to-table dining.

Don’t just eat it—live it. Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market is held every Thursday and is your golden ticket to the freshest produce, local honey, and homemade everything. Chat up the farmers. Sample the stone fruit. Grab some sourdough that might change your life. It’s laid-back, lively, and just the right amount of chaotic.

While you’re at it, check out Cyclops Farms, a certified organic urban farm that supplies many of Oceanside’s restaurants. They host events, dinners, and even let you pick your own produce. Warning: you might leave with a crate of kale and a deep desire to start gardening.

Final Bites: Why Oceanside’s Food Scene Hits Different

Let’s be honest—farm-to-table is often tossed around in cities that feel more like curated museum exhibits than real, lived-in communities. But Oceanside? It’s gritty, it’s growing, and it’s got soul. The chefs here aren’t following trends; they’re setting them. The food isn’t pretentious; it’s passionate. And every bite tells a story that started just down the road.

So, next time you find yourself in this coastal corner of California, come hungry—and maybe wear pants with an elastic waistband. You’re gonna need it.

Planning Your Visit?
Make sure to check restaurant hours, reserve ahead if you can, and leave room in your suitcase for jam jars and handmade pasta. This isn’t just a dining experience—it’s a full-on flavor adventure.

Dig in.

New Orleans

New Orleans’ Haunted History: A Ghost Tour

New Orleans, the Crescent City, is renowned for its vibrant music, delectable cuisine, and unique cultural blend. But beneath the surface of jazz-filled streets and colorful balconies lies a darker, more mysterious side: a history steeped in tragedy, Voodoo, and countless restless spirits. If you’re looking for an adventure that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your imagination, a ghost tour in New Orleans is an absolute must-do!

Imagine walking through the dimly lit cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the gas lamps casting long, dancing shadows, as a seasoned storyteller regales you with tales of centuries-old hauntings. This isn’t just about jump scares; it’s an immersive journey into the city’s past, where every building seems to hold a chilling secret.

What Makes New Orleans So Haunted?

New Orleans Street — Visittheusa.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visittheusa.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The city’s tumultuous history has created fertile ground for paranormal activity. From devastating fires and rampant epidemics like yellow fever to the brutal realities of slavery and violent crimes, New Orleans has witnessed its share of profound suffering. This rich, often tragic, past has left an indelible mark, and many believe the spirits of those who lived and died here still linger.

Iconic Haunted Locations You Might Encounter:

A good ghost tour will take you to some of New Orleans’ most infamous spectral hotspots. Here are a few you’re likely to hear about:

The LaLaurie Mansion — Al.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.al.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street): Perhaps the most notorious haunted house in America, this grand mansion was once home to Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a wealthy socialite infamous for her horrific cruelty towards her enslaved people in the early 19th century. The tales of torture and suffering within its walls are truly unsettling, and many claim the tormented spirits of her victims still haunt the property.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 — Cemeterytourneworleans.com. (2025). Available at: https://cemeterytourneworleans.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: As the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, established in 1789, it’s a labyrinth of above-ground tombs and crumbling mausoleums. It’s the final resting place of many notable figures, including the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Visitors often report seeing ghostly figures, hearing whispers, and feeling an eerie presence among the ornate tombs.

The Ursuline Convent — Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The Ursuline Convent: This imposing building, dating back to the 1750s, holds tales of mysterious deaths and sightings of ghostly nuns. It’s also famously associated with the “Casket Girls” legend – young French women who arrived with small chests, rumored to be vampires by some, though history tells a less sensational story of their belongings.

Hotel Monteleone — Phgcdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://phgcdn.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Hotel Monteleone: This luxurious hotel has a long history and a reputation for being exceptionally haunted. Guests and staff have reported encounters with spectral children, including a young boy named Maurice who is said to roam the 14th floor, still searching for his parents.

Muriel's Jackson Square — Thevendry.com. (2025). Available at: https://thevendry.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Muriel’s Jackson Square: This restaurant is reportedly haunted by its former owner, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who committed suicide upstairs after losing the property in a poker game. Diners have reported moving objects, disembodied voices, and a general feeling of being watched.

Beyond the Ghosts: A Historical Perspective

New Orleans ghost tours are more than just spooky stories; they offer a unique way to delve into the city’s complex history. You’ll learn about the origins of Voodoo in New Orleans, the impact of significant historical events, and the lives of the colorful, and often tragic, characters who shaped this remarkable city. The guides are often captivating storytellers, blending historical facts with local legends to create an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, a New Orleans ghost tour promises an evening of intrigue, history, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a chance to see the city in a different light, to feel the echoes of its past, and perhaps, to even encounter a friendly (or not-so-friendly) spirit.

South Carolina

Myrtle Beach’s Family-Friendly Fun: A Parent’s Guide

People Enjoying The Beach at Myrtle Beach, SC

Alright, parents—let’s be real for a second. Planning a family vacation can feel like trying to juggle flaming beach balls while balancing on a boogie board.

You want fun, but not too wild. You want the kids entertained, but also a little downtime for yourself (because, let’s face it, you deserve it). Enter: Myrtle Beach. This sunny South Carolina gem is more than just surf and sand—though the 60 miles of coastline sure don’t hurt.

Myrtle Beach is packed with family-friendly adventures, delicious eats, and just enough chaos to keep the kids happy without driving you totally bonkers. Let’s dive into all the stuff that makes Myrtle Beach a no-brainer for your next family getaway.

Hit the Beach—Obviously

Kids at the beach. — Visitmyrtlebeach.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/[Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

First things first, the beach itself is a total win. Soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of room to spread out. Whether your little ones are building the world’s most crooked sandcastle or you’ve got teens perfecting their skimboarding skills, there’s something for everyone.

Pro tip: Head out early to snag a good spot and avoid that midday meltdown (you know the one). Pack snacks, sunscreen, and a beach umbrella you won’t wrestle with for 20 minutes.

Broadway at the Beach: Where It All Happens

Aerial View of Broadway at the Beach — Paradiseresortmb.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.paradiseresortmb.com [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

If your crew’s got energy to burn, Broadway at the Beach is the place to go. This buzzing entertainment district is basically a playground—for all ages. You’ll find everything from Ripley’s Aquarium (yes, the jellyfish tunnel is awesome) to amusement rides, shops, and quirky little snack stands.

Let the kids feed the fish, grab an ice cream, then wind down with a breezy boat ride around the lake. It’s kind of impossible not to have fun here.

SkyWheel Rides and Ocean Views

View of the Skywheel Myrtle Beach. — Skywheelmb.com. (2025). Available at: https://skywheelmb.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

Feeling brave? Take the fam up on the SkyWheel, Myrtle Beach’s iconic Ferris wheel that towers 200 feet above the ocean. The views are next-level, and it’s surprisingly chill—even if you’re a little scared of heights (speaking from experience here).

And hey, it makes for a killer family selfie backdrop, so make sure someone brings their phone—or three.

Mini Golf: Battle for the Family Title

A family at a mini golf course. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

You can’t come to Myrtle Beach and not play mini golf. Seriously, it’s like a rite of passage here. The town is packed with wild, themed courses—think pirates, dinosaurs, and even jungle safaris.

Our favorite? Mt. Atlanticus. It’s got towering tiki heads, tricky holes, and views that make you feel like you’ve leveled up in vacation mode. Plus, a little friendly family competition never hurt anyone (just try not to gloat when you win).

The Great Food Hunt (For Picky and Adventurous Eaters)

Myrtle Beach Food Truck. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

Finding food that works for everyone can be, well, a bit of a circus. But Myrtle Beach makes it easier. Got a kid who only eats chicken tenders? You’re covered. Want to sneak in some fresh seafood for the grown-ups? There are tons of beachside spots that hit both.

Try Sea Captain’s House for ocean views and shrimp-and-grits that’ll knock your flip-flops off. Or go casual with River City Cafe, where burgers come stacked and messy—just the way kids love ’em. And if you’re out exploring and need a quick bite, keep an eye out for local food trucks—you’ll find everything from tacos to gourmet grilled cheese, perfect for a laid-back beach day.

Chill Time: Parks, Piers, and Sunsets

Myrtle Beach Pier — Reddit. (2025). Available at: https://www.reddit.com/ [Accessed 13 Jun. 2025].

When the high-energy activities start catching up to everyone, it’s time to slow things down. Take a sunset stroll along Myrtle Beach State Park, let the kids run wild on the playgrounds, or drop a line off the 2nd Avenue Pier.

It’s the kind of low-key magic that reminds you why family trips are worth every snack spill and sunscreen tantrum.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Myrtle Beach hits that sweet spot between laid-back and full-on fun. It’s got just enough of everything—a beach for the bucket lists, attractions that make memories, and food you’ll dream about long after you’re home.

So pack the car, wrangle the crew, and set your GPS to good times. Myrtle Beach is waiting, and trust me, it’s one trip you’ll want to repeat.

Ready to plan your Myrtle Beach adventure? Book early, build that itinerary, and get ready for a family vacation that hits all the right notes—without hitting your stress limit.