Be sure to look both ways before crossing the street during your visit to the College of Charleston. You may have to make way for a horse-drawn carriage. This stunning public liberal arts college is postcard-pretty and has a storied history, dating back to 1770.
No matter where you’re from, you’ll find much to appreciate on the College of Charleston grounds, once named “America’s Most Beautiful College Campus” by Travel + Leisure. It is the oldest U.S. higher education institution south of Virginia and the 13th oldest such institution in the United States. Three future signers of the Declaration of Independence and three future framers of the United States Constitution were among the college’s founders. Today, the college plays an integral role in the cultural landscape of Charleston, providing arts and music entertainment, historic sights and an exciting sports scene.
Set in the Historic District of Charleston, the downtown campus is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Check out the Avery Institute of Afro-American History and Culture, as well as the William Blacklock House.
Among the tree-shaded paths and colonnaded, brick buildings, you’ll find symbols of the future, including the School of Business at the modern Beatty Center. View the fountains in front of the striking, three-story Marlene and Nathan Addlestone Library, the region’s top research library. Have a picnic with students on Rivers Green, a huge lawn and patio behind the library.
Before or after your campus visit, enjoy dining and shopping at the Charleston City Market, built in the 1800s across four city blocks and still operating today as a public market. Peruse over 300 boutiques, restaurants and artisan studios. Purchase a locally crafted sweetgrass basket and regional foods, such as homemade biscuits and fried okra.
Explore the College of Charleston campus on a self-guided walking tour, following a map from the Office of Admissions on George Street. Alternatively, download a map to your smartphone and start at the iconic Cistern Yard.
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