Looking for cheap Flights to Charleston, South Carolina, USA (CHS) airport?

Charleston, accessible via cheap flights to CHS airport, is South Carolina's oldest and largest city, universally celebrated for its unparalleled historic charm, cobblestone streets, vibrant culinary scene, and deep connection to American history, making it one of the most beloved and essential travel destinations in the South. The entire Historic District is a National Historic Landmark, boasting stunning antebellum architecture, rainbow-colored "Rainbow Row," and secret gardens, inviting visitors to wander and soak in centuries of history. Fort Sumter National Monument, accessible by boat tour, is a profoundly significant landmark where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, offering a powerful connection to this pivotal moment in American history. The Historic Charleston City Market is one of the oldest public markets in the U.S., where local Gullah Geechee artisans sell sweetgrass baskets, a unique cultural craft.

For a glimpse into plantation life, Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens (one of America's oldest working plantations) and Drayton Hall (the oldest unrestored plantation house in America) offer diverse perspectives on the region's complex past. The South Carolina Aquarium provides an engaging look at the marine life of the region. Charleston's culinary scene is world-renowned, known for its innovative Southern cuisine, fresh seafood, and unique Lowcountry flavors, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Stroll along the Battery with its grand historic homes and views of Charleston Harbor. The Gibbes Museum of Art features American art with a focus on Southern artists. Annual events like the Spoleto Festival USA (performing arts) and the Charleston Wine + Food Festival draw international acclaim. Savor shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and other iconic Lowcountry dishes. Charleston’s unparalleled historic preservation, its vibrant culinary and arts scenes, and its significant role in American history make it an indispensable and truly enchanting destination for anyone seeking an authentic, beautiful, and culturally rich Southern experience.

Why Visit Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston enchants with its Historic District, Fort Sumter’s Civil War legacy, and world-class Lowcountry cuisine. Wander Rainbow Row, explore Boone Hall Plantation, or enjoy Spoleto Festival USA. Perfect for history buffs, foodies, and culture seekers craving Southern charm.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Nickname: The Holy City
• Airport: Charleston International Airport (CHS)
• Key Attractions: Historic District, Fort Sumter, Charleston City Market
• Population: Approximately 155,000
• Major Events: Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival

Geographic Location & Climate

In South Carolina’s Lowcountry along Charleston Harbor, Charleston has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers (average high 88°F) and mild winters (average low 40°F). Spring and fall are ideal for historic tours and festivals.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Charleston, South Carolina

Total Population

Charleston’s population is approximately 155,000 (2025 estimate).

Age Distribution

Median age ~35 years, with young professionals and families.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

• White: 70%
• Black or African American: 22%
• Hispanic or Latino: 5%
• Asian: 2%
• Other: 1%

Gender Breakdown

Approximately 48% male, 52% female.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 2.4, with diverse families and singles.

Population Growth Trends

Growing at 1% annually, driven by tourism and tech.

Economy & Living Standards In Charleston, South Carolina

Major Industries & Employers

• Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC): 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29425
• Boeing South Carolina: 5400 International Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29418
• Charleston County School District: 75 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
• City of Charleston: 80 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Roper St. Francis Healthcare: 316 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment ~3.8%, with jobs in healthcare, tourism, and aerospace.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household income $75,000; cost of living above national average.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty rate 12%, tied to urban-rural disparities.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Thriving in tourism, tech, and port-related industries.

Health & Wellness In Charleston, South Carolina

General Health Overview

Strong healthcare via MUSC and Roper St. Francis, with wellness focus.

Common Health Issues

Heat-related illnesses, coastal allergies.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• Planet Fitness: 2070 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407
• Charleston Fitness: 1233 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407
• Pure Barre Charleston: 7 Amy Elsey Dr, Charleston, SC 29407
• Yoga Den and Core Studio: 14 Windermere Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407
• CrossFit Charleston: 1745 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC 29407

Mental Health Resources

• MUSC Behavioral Health: 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29425
• Roper St. Francis Psychiatric Services: 316 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charleston Dorchester Mental Health: 2100 Charlie Hall Blvd, Charleston, SC 29414

Public Health Initiatives

Beachfront fitness programs and community health fairs.

Hospitals & Clinics In Charleston, South Carolina

Major Hospitals & Emergency Services

• Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC): 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29425
• Roper Hospital: 316 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
• East Cooper Medical Center: 2000 Hospital Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• MUSC Health Urgent Care: 1280 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
• Roper St. Francis Express Care: 1114 N Main St, Summerville, SC 29483
• Doctors Care: 743 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Specialty Medical Centers

• MUSC Hollings Cancer Center: 86 Jonathan Lucas St, Charleston, SC 29425
• Roper Heart Center: 316 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
• East Cooper Orthopedics: 2000 Hospital Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

MUSC and Roper St. Francis offer telehealth services.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Charleston, South Carolina

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Charleston Veterinary Referral Center: 3484 Shelby Ray Ct, Charleston, SC 29414
• Veterinary Specialty Care: 985 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
• West Ashley Veterinary Clinic: 840 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• Banfield Pet Hospital: 7620 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406
• Southside Animal Hospital: 818 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• Paws & Claws Grooming: 1676 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC 29407
• Dog Daze Boarding: 820 Dupont Rd, Charleston, SC 29407
• PetSmart Boarding: 7620 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• James Island County Park: 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston, SC 29412
• Wannamaker County Park: 8888 University Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406
• Waterfront Park: 1 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401

Local Government & Public Services In Charleston, South Carolina

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Charleston City Hall: 80 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401

County Government Services

• Charleston County Government Center: 4045 Bridge View Dr, North Charleston, SC 29405

Public Records and Licensing

• Charleston County Register of Deeds: 101 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charleston County Clerk: 100 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401

Planning and Zoning Departments

• Charleston Planning Department: 75 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401

Tax and Revenue Offices

• Charleston County Treasurer: 101 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charleston County Auditor: 101 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Charleston Police Department: 180 Lockwood Blvd, Charleston, SC 29403
• Charleston Fire Department: 1451 King St Ext, Charleston, SC 29405
• Charleston County EMS: 4045 Bridge View Dr, North Charleston, SC 29405

Courts and Legal Aid

• Charleston County Courthouse: 100 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Lowcountry Legal Aid: 1064 Gardner Rd, Charleston, SC 29407
• Federal Courthouse: 85 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401

Public Works and Utilities

• Charleston Public Works: 75 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charleston Water System: 103 St Philip St, Charleston, SC 29403

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• Charleston County Voter Registration: 4367 Headquarters Rd, North Charleston, SC 29405
• South Carolina Election Commission: 1122 Lady St, Columbia, SC 29201
• U.S. Senators: Lindsey Graham (R), Tim Scott (R)
• U.S. House Representative: Nancy Mace (R), District 1

Education & Libraries In Charleston, South Carolina

Public School Districts

• Charleston County School District:
  • James Island Elementary: 1872 Grimball Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
  • Harbor View Elementary: 1576 Harbor View Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
  • Stiles Point Elementary: 883 Mikell Dr, Charleston, SC 29412
  • Burke High School: 244 President St, Charleston, SC 29403
  • West Ashley High School: 4060 W Wildcat Blvd, Charleston, SC 29414
  • Academic Magnet High School: 5109 W Enterprise St, North Charleston, SC 29405
  • Wando High School: 1000 Warrior Way, Mt Pleasant, SC 29466

Charter and Private Schools

• Porter-Gaud School: 300 Albemarle Rd, Charleston, SC 29407
• Ashley Hall: 172 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403
• First Baptist School: 48 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Bishop England High School: 363 Seven Farms Dr, Charleston, SC 29492

Colleges and Universities

• College of Charleston: 66 George St, Charleston, SC 29424 - Main Majors: Business, Biology, History, Arts, Education
• Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC): 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29425 - Main Majors: Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Health Professions
• The Citadel: 171 Moultrie St, Charleston, SC 29409 - Main Majors: Engineering, Business, Criminal Justice, History

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• Charleston County Public Library: 68 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
• John L. Dart Library: 1067 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Mt. Pleasant Regional Library: 1133 Mathis Ferry Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
• West Ashley Library: 45 Windermere Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston has produced influential figures in arts, politics, and culture.

• Stephen Colbert (Entertainer): Comedian and TV host, raised in Charleston
• Robert Smalls (Politician): Civil War hero and Congressman, born in Beaufort
• Angelica Singleton Van Buren (First Lady): Acting First Lady for Martin Van Buren, born in Charleston
• Shepard Fairey (Artist): Creator of the Obama "Hope" poster, raised in Charleston
• Denmark Vesey (Activist): Leader of planned 1822 slave revolt, Charleston resident

Flights & Travel Logistics In Charleston, South Carolina

Cheap Flights to Charleston

Book cheap flights to Charleston, South Carolina, USA (CHS) and save up to $143 with early booking.

Best Time to Book

Book 2 months ahead for Spoleto Festival or spring blooms.

Airlines That Serve Charleston, South Carolina

• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• United Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• JetBlue Airways

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

• Myrtle Beach International (MYR): 80 miles northeast
• Savannah/Hilton Head (SAV): 100 miles southwest

Transportation After Arrival

Rentals, taxis, and shuttles at CHS; CARTA buses locally.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Book plantation tours early; pack for humid weather.

Where to Stay In Charleston, South Carolina

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District: 345 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Comfort Inn Downtown: 144 Bee St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Sleep Inn Charleston: 1524 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• The Dewberry: 334 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
• French Quarter Inn: 166 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Zero George Street: 0 George St, Charleston, SC 29401

Luxury Resorts and Spas

• Belmond Charleston Place: 205 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hotel Bennett: 404 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

Family-Friendly Lodging

• Embassy Suites North Charleston: 5055 International Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29418
• Holiday Inn Riverview: 301 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Residence Inn Charleston: 1231 Pleasant Point Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
• Homewood Suites: 1998 Riviera Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Getting Around In Charleston, South Carolina

Public Transportation Overview

Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) buses serve the city.

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

• Enterprise: 398 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hertz: 5500 International Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29418
• Uber/Lyft widely available

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Historic District and Battery walkable; Ravenel Bridge bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Paid parking in downtown; watch for narrow streets.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Charleston, South Carolina

National Parks and Scenic Areas

• Fort Sumter National Monument: 340 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charles Pinckney National Historic Site: 1254 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• Palmetto Trail: Access at 1254 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
• Awendaw Passage: 5826 US-17, Awendaw, SC 29429
• West Ashley Greenway: 721 Main Rd, Charleston, SC 29407

Wildlife Viewing

Dolphins, birds, and alligators in Lowcountry marshes.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• Charleston Harbor: Access at Waterfront Park, Charleston, SC 29401
• Ashley River: Access at Brittlebank Park, Charleston, SC 29403

Camping and RV Parks

• James Island County Park Campground: 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston, SC 29412
• Mt. Pleasant KOA: 3157 N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant, SC 29466

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Kayaking and paddleboarding in summer; oyster roasts in winter.

History & Heritage In Charleston, South Carolina

Founding and Historical Background

Founded in 1670 as Charles Town; key port in colonial and Civil War eras.

Major Disasters and Events

1989 Hurricane Hugo caused $10B damage; 1861 Fort Sumter attack; Spoleto Festival since 1977. Recovery: Federal FEMA aid ($2B), state funds ($500M), local efforts rebuilt 90% of areas by 1992.

Historical Landmarks

• Rainbow Row: 83-107 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
• The Battery: 1 E Battery St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Drayton Hall: 3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
• Boone Hall Plantation: 1235 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Gibbes Museum of Art: 135 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charleston Museum: 360 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Old Slave Mart Museum: 6 Chalmers St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Aiken-Rhett House: 48 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403

Local Folklore and Legends

Tales of Gullah Geechee traditions and haunted historic homes.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Kiawah and Sewee tribes; English and French settlers.

Arts & Culture In Charleston, South Carolina

Performing Arts Venues

• Dock Street Theatre: 135 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Gaillard Center: 95 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charleston Music Hall: 37 John St, Charleston, SC 29403

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• Gibbes Museum of Art: 135 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hagan Fine Art Gallery: 125 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Robert Lange Studios: 2 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401

Local Artists and Artisans

Gullah sweetgrass basket weavers and Lowcountry painters.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• Spoleto Festival USA: 14 George St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charleston Wine + Food Festival: 635 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403
• MOJA Arts Festival: 80 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401

Music Scene and Live Performances

Concerts at Gaillard Center and local jazz venues.

Food & Drink In Charleston, South Carolina

Top Restaurants by Cuisine

• Husk (Southern): 76 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
• FIG (Southern): 232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• The Ordinary (Seafood): 544 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Chez Nous (French): 6 Payne Ct, Charleston, SC 29403

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Lowcountry seafood, rice, and local produce.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

• Holy City Brewing: 1021 Aragon Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
• Firefly Distillery: 4201 Spruill Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
• Edmund’s Oast Brewing: 1505 King St Ext, Charleston, SC 29405

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Charleston City Market Food Stalls: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Dave’s Carry-Out: 42 Morris St, Charleston, SC 29403

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Available at The Sprout Cafe and Gnome Cafe.

Shopping & Leisure In Charleston, South Carolina

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• King Street Shops: 200 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charleston City Market: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Candlefish: 71 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Mt. Pleasant Towne Centre: 1218 Belk Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
• Northwoods Mall: 2150 Northwoods Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406

Antique Stores and Markets

• George C. Birlant Antiques: 191 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hungryneck Antiques: 1367 S University Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

Gullah sweetgrass baskets and Lowcountry art.

Events & Entertainment In Charleston, South Carolina

Annual Festivals and Parades

• Spoleto Festival USA: 14 George St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Charleston Wine + Food Festival: 635 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403
• Cooper River Bridge Run: 360 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• Charleston Farmers Market: 329 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
• Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market: 645 Coleman Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

Charleston Battery soccer at Patriots Point.

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

Winter holiday markets and spring garden tours.

Nearby Destinations In Charleston, South Carolina

Popular Day Trips

• Folly Beach: 101 E Arctic Ave, Folly Beach, SC 29439 (10 miles south)
• Hilton Head Island: 1 Town Center Ct, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (100 miles southwest)

Hidden Gems in the Region

• Angel Oak Tree: 3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455
• Caw Caw Interpretive Center: 5200 Savannah Hwy, Ravenel, SC 29470

Scenic Drives and Routes

Ashley River Road Scenic Byway.

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
• Middleton Place: 4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414

Audience-Specific Guides In Charleston, South Carolina

Family Travel Tips

South Carolina Aquarium and Charleston City Market.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Fort Sumter and Gibbes Museum.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at Husk, stay at Belmond Charleston Place.

Business Travel Essentials

Stay near King Street for conventions.

Accessible Travel Resources

CARTA ADA buses; contact tourism board.

Natural Resources In Charleston, South Carolina

Rich in coastal fisheries, marshes, and oak forests.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on September 30, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.