Charleston, South Carolina Is the 250th Anniversary Destination You Haven't Thought Of Yet — But Should
Darley Newman shares her insider guide to Charleston for America's 250th with Parade Magazine — hidden fortresses, historic stays, Lowcountry food, and why this city is the MVP of 2026.
“I think what’s interesting about the 250th is the first places that most people think about are Boston and Philadelphia, you think about Williamsburg… a lot of people are going to do D.C., but I have been very purposefully traveling to other places,” Newman tells Parade. “Charleston has such a great story related to the American Revolution.”
When people think about America's 250th anniversary, the same cities come up first — Boston, Philadelphia, Williamsburg, Washington D.C. And they're not wrong. Those places matter deeply. But after years of filming Travels with Darley and crisscrossing the original 13 colonies for my book Revolutionary Road Trip, I keep coming back to one city that consistently surprises people with the depth of its story: Charleston, South Carolina.
I recently had the chance to share my love for this city with Parade magazine, which featured me in their America's 250th anniversary travel coverage. The piece pulled together some of my top recommendations — and it reminded me just how much I've discovered in Charleston over multiple trips, multiple episodes of Travels with Darley, and years of digging into the stories that don't always make the history books.
The Hidden History That Makes Charleston Essential
The history here isn't tucked away in a museum. It's in the streets, the squares, and the soil.
Marion Square Park is my number one hidden gem. Right in the heart of downtown sits the Hornwork — the remains of a colonial fortress built from tabby, a local material made from oyster shells, lime, and sand. This was the city gate where American forces surrendered to the British in May 1780. Locals walk past it every day without knowing what they're standing next to.
Fort Moultrie is the essential stop too many visitors skip in favor of Fort Sumter. Fort Moultrie is where a key early Revolutionary War victory was won, and as a National Park site, it's an invaluable window into how Charleston's defenses shaped the entire conflict.
The Heyward-Washington House offers something rare — a genuine look at women's experiences during the Revolution, including the stories of the Grimké daughters, who became world-famous abolitionists and suffragists. The Charleston Museum's dedicated Revolutionary War audio tour extends this further, highlighting the experiences of women and enslaved people connected to these properties.
Just outside the city, the Berkeley County Museum is worth the drive. Hike the same swampy boardwalk trails the "Swamp Fox" Francis Marion once used to outmaneuver the British. That's the kind of immersive history that separates a good trip from an unforgettable one.
Watch: Charleston on Travels with Darley
Where to Stay in Charleston
Don't just book the obvious hotel. Charleston rewards guests who stay in historic properties — you end up learning things no travel app will tell you.
For a splurge, Wentworth Mansion with Circa 1886 on site is the one.
For intimacy and walkability, John Rutledge House Inn — a Revolutionary-era property with breakfast included — is where I stayed most recently and loved it.
The Dewberry delivers a contemporary feel with a rooftop bar and sunset views over Marion Square.
Kings Courtyard Inn on King Street is the smart value play — walkable to everything.
Where to Eat in Charleston
The Grocery for James Beard Award-nominated Chef Kevin Johnson's heirloom Lowcountry cooking — I filmed with him for our Liberty Trail episode and his food is as rooted in this place as any history site.
Leon's Oyster Shop for a high-energy casual night out.
The Darling Oyster Bar near Marion Square for a fun, relaxed stop after a day of exploring.
Husk for modern Southern classics.
Callie's Hot Little Biscuit for breakfast — non-negotiable.
And if you make it to McClellanville, TW Graham and Company for no-fuss local seafood.
My book Revolutionary Road Trip is available now on Amazon.
Watch the full South Carolina series on YouTube and streaming platforms.
