Charleston Shore Excursions: Explore American History

A mansion in Charleston, South Carolina

If you're a fan of colonial American history, then look no further than Charleston, South Carolina, offered as a port of call on some Canada and New England cruises. Charleston shore excursions offer you the perfect place to get transported back to a bygone era in American history.

Any history buffs should be sure to tour the many old buildings that seem to be everywhere you look when you're walking around Charleston. A particular highlight is the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, a remnant of the British colonial era. The Old Exchange is considered to be one of the most historic buildings in the entire country, and it played a part in many different aspects of early American history. The Provost Dungeon is also noteworthy, as the British detained prisoners there before the American Revolution.

Yet the Revolutionary War wasn't the only period in which Charleston played a significant role in history. Many of the sites in town that you’ll see during Charleston excursions are famous for their part in the Civil War as well. The most famous of these is likely Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the war were fired. You can learn all about that fateful battle, as well as the skirmishes that followed, while touring this amazing fortification.

For fans of the modern military, there's no better stop on Charleston shore excursions than Patriots Point. Here you can step on board the U.S.S. Yorktown, a world-famous aircraft carrier. The submarine Clamagore is also located here. For a real inside look, be sure to try out the Navy Flight Simulator as well.

Finally, keep in mind that not everything you’ll see on Charleston excursions is tied into history or the military. It's also quite simply a beautiful place to visit and walk around. The historic buildings make a nice backdrop, but those simply looking for a peaceful day should head out to the Magnolia Plantation, an ornate estate that features some breathtakingly beautiful gardens.