THE VISITOR'S GUIDE TO THE BEST CHARLESTON EXPERIENCES

Charleston Museum

The Charleston Museum was founded in 1773, making it America’s first museum. War delayed the museum’s public opening, but the doors finally opened to the public in 1824. The Museum features two levels of exhibits that recounts the history of Charleston and the Lowcountry by showcasing hundreds of items ranging from ancient fossils to Civil War artifacts.

The first level is home to the Natural History section, temporary exhibits that focus on local history and the museum’s gift shop. The second level is home to eight permanent exhibits:

Lowcountry History Hall - Learn about the Native Americans who first inhabited the South Carolina Lowcountry as well as the colonists and enslaved African Americans who transformed the region into an agricultural empire.
The Armory - Showcases examples of historic weaponry, dating from 1750 to the twentieth century
Becoming Americans - Explore Charleston's role in the American Revolution
Charleston in the Civil War - Learn about Charleston's role in the Civil War
Early Days - See collections from around the world including an Egyptian mummy and mummy case
Kidstory - A hands-on exhibit for children where the history of Charleston comes alive
Historic Textiles - Features regularly rotating exhibits from a rich historic textiles and clothing collection
Charleston Silver - Showcasing the impressive work of the South’s finest silver craftsmen and women

The museum also owns two historic homes, the Joseph Manigault House and the Heyward Washington House, that are open to the public. Admission for each is $12 or save money by purchasing combo tickets. Limited free parking is available and paid public parking is available across the street. Allow approximately 2 hours to tour the entire museum.