Bus Charter and Leisure Blog Archive

A Worthwhile Shopping Experience

When you are in the area of Charleston, South Carolina, you are bound to get urge to go out and do a little bit of shopping. Luckily for you, there are all kinds of fantastic places that you can go to feed that shopping need. One of the great places in Charleston that is very popular amongst locals and tourists alike is called Worthwhile. You should stop by and browse through their location at 268 King Street so that you can see what the fuss is all about.

This interesting store opened up in downtown Charleston back in 1993. Since then, it has been pleasing hundreds of customers ever since with a unique style and flavor. You can find all sorts of fantastic stuff behind their doors, great for gifts or a little splurge for yourself. They carry many different things such as candle holders, books, soaps, handbags, clothing and much more. Shopping here is quite a delight, especially when the wonderful inventory is always changing.

Worthwhile does offer a web store where you can do some shopping, but you are best off to head on into their physical location. The staff is super friendly and always willing to help you find just the right thing. Often times, patrons find themselves striking up quite a conversation before they even get a chance to browse around.

If you have any questions, or if you are in need of a specific item, go ahead and give Worthwhile at (877) 454-0876. You are sure to find what you are looking for here, if not, you will definitely find something else that you will be happy to have found!

Viewing The U.S.S. Yorktown

When you are planning a visit to the area of Charleston, South Carolina, you should think about stopping by to catch a glimpse of the U.S.S. Yorktown. Otherwise known as "The Fighting Lady", the U.S.S. Yorktown is a famous aircraft carrier that resides at Patriot's Point Maritime Museum. This would make a fabulous trip for your entire family or sightseeing group.

The U.S.S. Yorktown is quite wonderful to view, especially when you see how large and majestic it is when you are up close to it. This is a very decorated ship that is known have aided a great deal in the United States victory during World War II in the Pacific Ocean. You really want to be sure that you bring your camera along when you visit this museum. It is a neat experience to be able to see all of the great stuff at Patriot's Point.

If you would like to stop by Patriot's Point Maritime Museum to see the U.S.S. Yorktown and the other great ships docked there, the hours of operation are from 9:00 am until 6:30 pm. The Museum is open daily with the exception of the Christmas holiday.

When you decide to visit, you may want to think about signing up for one of the group tours that are offered. This is the perfect way to learn everything that there is to know about all of these wonderful ships on hand. From April 1st through September 30th tickets are sold from 9:00 am until 6:00 pm with ships closing at 7:30 pm. From October 1st through March 31st tickets are sold from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm with ships closing at 6:30 pm. A guided tour may be just the things that you are looking for!

Viewing St. Michael's Episcopal Church

When you visit the lovely Charleston, South Carolina area, you will be surrounded by all kinds of wonderful historical structures. However, one of these beautiful old structures stands tall above the rest. The St. Michael's Episcopal Church is a gorgeous slice of history that was built way back in 1761. This church is known to be the oldest church edifice within the entire area of Charleston. It actually stands on the original site of the first ever Anglican Church that was built south of the state of Virginia.

To be able to appreciate the splendor of the architecture, one really must visit this church in person. The steeple itself is about 186 feet tall, with a weather vane sitting atop at about 7 and a half feet long. On the inside of St. Michael's Episcopal Church, you will find awesome accents of dark, native cedar. Some of the truly interesting and remarkable people that have actually sat and worshipped in these gorgeous wooden pews include President George Washington and General Robert E. Lee.

You will also find other great wonders such as the original organ that was installed way back in 1768. This stunning organ was made by a gentleman named John Snetzler from London. There are also two beautiful stained glass windows that sit in the north aisle that are called "Easter Morning", which was presented to the church in 1897, and "The Annunciation" in 1908.

Everybody is welcome to visit St. Michael's Episcopal Church on Sunday for a service. After services, coffee and fellowship are offered in the Parish House. You are invited to stay for a while and ask as many questions as you wish about the church and the great history surrounding it.

Beautiful St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church

When you are in Charleston, South Carolina, you simply must pay a visit to St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church. This is a wonderful structure that is located on 89 Hasell Street, which is just perfect for a visit with your group or your family when you are visiting the area. St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church was actually the very first Roman Catholic Church to come about in the region of Georgia and the Carolinas.

This Classical Revival style building that is home to St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church was completed in 1839 after the original structure was almost completely destroyed by a fire. The inside of this building is just amazing, from the high ceilings down to every little ornamental detail. There is even a gorgeous painting up on the ceiling that dates back to 1814, done by a gentleman named John S. Cogdell.

Guests are always welcome at the church, and this would make a lovely visit for anyone, especially if you are fond of religious architecture. The large pillars out front are quite wonderful to look at amidst the beautiful trees located around the perimeter. People often gather outside of the location on Hasell Street so that they may snap a few pictures of the lovely building in historic Charleston.

If you would like to pay a visit to lovely St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church, it is open to the public Monday through Friday during the hours of 9:30 am until 3:30 pm. For any questions or if you are looking for general information, you may call the church office at (843) 722-7696.

The Slavery and Freedom Walk

You will find that the beautiful Charleston area offers several interesting walks to the public, including the popular Slavery and Freedom Walk. This is where you can learn all about the African-American story and how it relates to Charleston and the surrounding communities. You will find that this could be a marvelous educational experience for your whole family where you can learn all about how and why slavery evolved in Charleston, South Carolina.

A few of the other things that you will learn about during this experience is the black religious experience as well as Gullah folklore. Find out about the Civil War and how the black people participated. You may also find it quite interesting to learn all about slave uprisings and what exactly the role was of the free African-Americans during the entire slavery era.

When you go through the walk, you will get a chance to stop by and see the Old Slave Mart Museum, Fort Sumter, and Catfish Row. You will also get a chance to learn about Robert Smalls, Slave raders, Denmark Vesey and Slave Revolts. Bring along your camera, as there are sure to be several places that you may want photographs of.

You can take part in your own Slavery and Freedom Walk daily at either 10:00 am or 1:00 pm. Be sure that you are wearing a comfortable pair of footwear because you will be walking approximately 1.25 miles over a duration of about and hour and a half. The cost for the walk is $18 for adults and $10 for children ages 7 through 14. Children under the age of 7 are free.

The Pink House Gallery

When you visit the area of Charleston, South Carolina, there is a lovely place that you should visit called the Pink House Gallery. This gallery sits in what is known to be the oldest standing tavern building in all of the South. Inside, you can browse through all kinds of different art including landscape, wildlife, florals and Charleston scenes. What a great excursion to take with your entire family during your visit to this area of the state.

The Pink House Gallery was said to have been built way back in the mid 1690s by a man named John Breton. If you are wondering about the color of the building, it actually comes to be because of the Bermuda stone that it is constructed of. This is a West Indian coral stone that ends up giving off a pink hue. It is quite an amazing sight to see up close and personal. It is said that the building was quite the party spot years and years ago where sailors used to go for whiskey and women.

Now, the Pink House Gallery is open to the public for viewing. Many people love to stop by to enjoy the wonderful and unique architecture as well as all of its surroundings. The works inside are from artists such as Bruce W. Krucke, Alice Stewart Grimsley, and Anne C. Thomas.

The hours that you may stop by the Pink House Gallery are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm and also Sunday afternoons during the spring and fall. If you have any questions, you may call the gallery at (843) 723-3608. The Pink House Gallery is located at 17 Chalmers Street, and you cannot miss it!

The Original Charleston Walks

Known as the best tours in Charleston history, the Original Charleston Walks is where you want to go when you are looking to learn all about this marvelous area of South Carolina. This is such a unique place, it would only be right if there were a unique way to learn all about it. If you sign up for a Charleston Walk, you are in for a treat. This is the only way to see and experience all of the rich history up close and personal. The best part is, you have an extremely knowledgeable guide to bring you through your tour.

It is a pretty neat experience to embark on one of the Charleston Walks with your entire family. You almost end up feeling as though you have stepped back in time when you begin to hear all of the stories about the places that you are visiting firsthand. Another great thing is that there are a good number of different tours that you can choose from.

One of the most popular tours would have to be the Ghost Walk, where you can learn all about local hauntings. Some of the others include The Patriots of Charleston, Historic Homes Walk, Pirates and Buccaneers Walk, Slavery and Freedom Walk, and the Civil War Walk. No matter which one you choose to take, you are guaranteed to learn a great deal about Charleston. You may even choose to participate in more than one! The walks embark daily, rain or shine. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera!

The Magnolia Cemetery

It is a well-known fact that the city of Charleston, South Carolina is filled with all kinds of historical sites and homes. However, if you are looking to get some great insight on the true history of Charleston, you may want to think about stopping by to find out all about the Magnolia Cemetery. Once you arrive, you will soon see why so many people call it the best kept secret in Charleston.

It is quite interesting and amazing to find out about all of the different people that are buried at Magnolia Cemetery. There are actually approximately 2,200 Civil War veterans buried there, as well as approximately 1,700 graves of known and unknown Confederate veterans. You can even visit the burial site of the crew of the H.L. Hunley, a Confederate submarine that was lost at sea. The burial plot was donated for the graves of the seven crew members by the family of Horace L. Hunley who was the designer of the sub.

Magnolia is still actually a working cemetery, with approximately 35,000 people already laid to rest there. Many people love to come by and pay their respects to the war heroes of the past as well as catch a glimpse of the lovely aged gravestones. Be sure to bring along your camera so that you can capture a few memories for yourself.

Of course, there is never any admission fee to get into Magnolia Cemetery, located on 70 Cunnington Avenue. If you would like further information or to inquire about a tour you may call the Magnolia Cemetery Trust office at (843) 722-8638. The office hours are from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm Monday through Friday.

The Lowcountry Ghost Walk

If you and your family are looking for a spooktacular time when you are in Charleston, South Carolina, you should think about checking out the Lowcountry Ghost Walk. This is what is known as the first ever ghost tour of this area to go on year round. What a fun and unique way to see all of the sights in the area!

The Lowcountry Ghost Walk was originally called "The Original Lowcountry Ghost Hunt" and it was founded back in 1994. It has grown to become one of the most popular walking tour in the entire Charleston area. You can be confident that when you choose the original, you are choosing the best tour in the town.

During your Ghost Walk, you learn about all kinds of things including many local folk tales and stories of hauntings. The Charleston area is just loaded with all kinds of haunted history. You will have a unique experience while learning about all of the haunted inns, resident ghosts and even the Gullah superstitions. Chances are with each time you take the Ghost Walk, there may be something new to learn about. There is always new information being dug up by all of the professional ghost researchers.

The Lowcountry Ghost Walks take place every night at 5:30 pm, 7:30 pm, and 9:30 pm. Wear a pair of comfortable shoes as the walk lasts for approximately an hour and a half. The distance covered in this timeframe is about a mile or so. Enjoy learning about all of the boo-tiful stories of Charleston.

Vacationing At Kiawah Island

One of the best kept secrets in the Charleston, South Carolina area is called Kiawah Island. This is a gorgeous little vacation spot that sits in between the mainland area and the Atlantic Ocean. There are all kinds of great things to do here, and you are sure to get the relaxation that you are longing for when you arrive. What a great escape to take or even plan a family trip where everyone can enjoy this wonderful slice of paradise.

If you are a golf fanatic, there are five amazing golf courses that you can choose from, such as Osprey Point, Cougar Point, Ocean Course, Oak Point and Turtle Point. You can even have a golf package customized just for you! There are also many other great sporting and recreational activities that you can choose from at Kiawah Island. Some of these fun activities include kayaking, fishing, tennis, biking water sports, tours and much more.

When you are looking to find great activities for the entire family, Kiawah Island has you covered. Take the Eco River Tour and learn about the surrounding waters. You can even watch dolphins playing along side the boat! How about taking part in the Sea Island Excursion? Here, you can actually explore miles of the gorgeous beach area and do some of your own shelling. You will love the treasures that you can find.

Kiawah Island is a great experience that you simply do not want to miss. For more information on how you can plan a visit, you can call 1-800-845-3911.

The Joseph Manigault House

When it comes to all of the great places to visit in Charleston, South Carolina, you will find that there are a wealth of historical houses to choose from. Many people like to take certain walking tours of all the historic plantations or houses that are situated all throughout the city. One of these wonderful houses that happens to be quite a popular sightseeing stop is the Joseph Manigault House.

This home is a gorgeous three-story townhouse style crafted in brick that was designed by a gentleman named Gabriel Manigault back in 1803. Many people who visit this majestic home have actually already caught a glimpse of it on television. It had aired previously on the television show called America's Castles. Once you get a chance to see this home in all of its splendor, you will see why it is recognized as a National Historic Landmark.

Guests are always pleased to view the rooms, where many of the decorations have been restored to the original color scheme. There are even quite a few furnishings that date back to the early 19th century. In addition to the lovely interior, the exterior is also just as beautiful with quite a nice garden area.

To find this wonderful house, you do not need to look any further than 350 Meeting Street in downtown Charleston. The hours that you may stop by to view the Joseph Manigault House are from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday and 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday. Price of admission is only $7 for adults and $4 for children ages 3 through 12 with children under the age of 3 getting in for free. For further information, you may call (843) 723-2926.

The Gibbes Museum Of Art

Whether or not you are a lover of the arts, you are sure to enjoy a visit to the Gibbes Museum of Art located in wonderful Charleston, South Carolina. Anyone who visits the Gibbes Museum of Art will be able to enjoy a great collection of about 10,000 works of American fine art. These pieces include drawings, photographs, sculptures, mini-portraits, watercolors and much, much more. A good majority of the collection tends to directly reflect the flare and history of the amazing city of Charleston and the surrounding area in South Carolina.

There is always something new and exciting going on at the Gibbes Museum of Art. With all of the changing exhibits as well as the permanent collection, you are sure to always have a new adventure whenever you walk through the doors. One of the more popular collections at the museum would have to be the collection of Japanese prints. Within this collection are catalogues as well as wooden printing blocks. These items were all donated by a Japanese print collector by the name of Motte Alston Read.

If you are planning a visit to the Museum, it is conveniently located at 135 Meeting Street. The hours that you may stop by are from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm Tuesday through Saturday and from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday. There are regular closings every Monday as well as all of the major national holidays. Cost of admission is only $7 for adults, $6 for students, military and senior citizens, and $4 for children.

At The Gates Of Charleston

If you are looking for a great little shopping experience when you are in the lovely Charleston, South Carolina area, then you are in luck. The entire Charleston area is just loaded full of all kinds of wesome shops selling various items. One cool place that happens to be very popular with both the locals and the tourists is called Gates of Charleston.

To get a chance to check out the inventory at Gates of Charleston, you can find this shop at 73 Broad Street. Many people love to visit this wonderful place, even if it is just to browse around throughout the great offerings inside. Whether you are looking for a unique item for the interior of your home, or something wonderful to place around the exterior, you can find it at Gates of Charleston.

At Gates of Charleston, there is also a pretty decent selection of items that a just perfect for any garden. You will be glad that you stopped by when you see the different things that are available to brighten up your little outdoor oasis. Some people often find themselves wanting to come back to this Charleston shop over and over again because they enjoy their shopping experience so much.

If you have never been to the Gates of Charleston, then you are missing out on a great place with even better staff. You may just find that perfect something to bring home as a gift for a friend or loved one! For questions or general information, you can call (843) 958-0040.

The Edmonston-Alston House

If you are looking to head out through Charleston, South Carolina in search of some of the wonderful historic houses, then you are going to have quite a trip ahead of you. There are all kinds of gorgeous historical sites to choose from when you are looking to get in a bit of sightseeing. However, when you set out, one of the houses that you do not want to miss is the Edmondston-Alston House.

The historical Edmondston-Alston House was built way back in the year 1825 on what is known as Charleston's High Battery. It actually has quite a bit of rich history behind it that is quite fun to learn about if you decide to take a tour of the fabulous dwelling. If you think that the outside of this house is wonderful, just wait until you get a chance to view the interior.

On the inside of the Edmondston-Alston House, one is delighted to find that vast amount of Alston family treasures that are on display. Not only are there wonderful paintings and books, but the collection of Alston family silver is there to view as well. It is quite nice to hear all about the stories that lie behind these majestic walls. You are going to want to make sure that you bring along your camera with plenty of film so that you may capture the beauty for yourself.

There are interesting guided tours available of the Edmondston-Alston House if you wish to take one. The hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 4:30 pm and Sunday and Monday from 1:30 pm until 4:30 pm.

Come Play At Daniel Island

There is a unique area in Charleston, South Carolina called Daniel Island. This is a quaint downtown setting that is full of all kinds of different shops and recreational options. Not to mention how many beautiful rivers and creeks are scattered along the way with gorgeous marsh views that will take your breath away. You may even enjoy this special island town so much that you will want to move there yourself.

For an amazing shopping excursion, you should plan on visiting the downtown area of Daniel Island, where you will find all that you would expect from a downtown and much more. There is even the Spa at Daniel Island where you can relax and let your worries melt away. You can have all kinds of skincare pampering done such as waxing, facials and rejuvenating body wraps. They also offer exquisite massages and hydrotherapy treatments in their state of the art tub. What a great experience before you head back out for the rest of your excursion throughout Daniel Island

If you are looking for a delicious dining experience at Daniel Island, you are in for a treat. You can enjoy a truly wonderful meal at Sienna Restaurant, where you will find contemporary Italian cuisine at its best. Try the Potato and Smoked Salmon Lasagna with American Sturgeon Caviar or the Fritto Misto of Local Seafood with Spicy Meyer Lemon Agresto. You are sure to find a meal on the menu that will send your taste buds soaring. Daniel Island has something wonderful to offer everyone.

Classic Carriage Tours Through Charleston

Many people enjoy visiting the area of Charleston, South Carolina so that they may take in a bit of its wonderful history and culture. There are many tours offered that will take you around to the many historical homes and mansions in town as well as some of the other historic sites, many of which have to do with the Civil War. However, one of the absolute coolest ways to see everything in Charleston is through a carriage tour.

Classic Carriage Tours, Inc. is a great way for you to take a leisurely ride throughout this historic region. There is simply nothing quite as nice as relaxing and taking in all of the beauty that Charleston has to offer. Taking a horse drawn carriage around to all of the great sightseeing points is an experience that can be enjoyed and remembered for many years to come.

All of the regular tours start at 9:00 am and are run by licensed and very knowledgeable guides. The tours last for about an hour and you get a chance to see all of the popular historic sites and buildings in the area. Be sure to bring along your camera so that you can capture some of the memories.

The cost for a private carriage tour is $100 for two adults, $115 for three adults, and $125 for four adults. Private tours are only offered once per day at 10:30 am. For a group carriage tour the cost is $20 per each adult and $12 per each child. If you have any questions or if you would like to make a reservation in advance you can call Classic Carriage Tours, Inc. at (843) 853-3747.

The Citadel In Charleston

If you are going to be in the area of Charleston, South Carolina, you may want to set aside some time so that you can visit the historic Citadel. This is the famous Military College of South Carolina. It was built way back in 1829 by Marion Square on the north end. If you would like to plan your very own visit to check out this historic educational institution, the campus is completely open to the public all year round. A trip like this would be interesting and unique for your whole family to enjoy.

At the Citadel, there are approximately 1,900 young people that are enrolled in the 19 different degree programs that are offered. You will find that there are 24 buildings that make up the huge campus grounds. There is always something going on at the Citadel including various athletic events such as basketball, football and baseball.

You can also visit the Citadel Museum during your visit, where you can find out all about how the Citadel has progressed through the years. Another great thing about the museum is that it teaches you what it is like to be a cadet on the campus. Every Friday afternoon, guests can also view the parade that takes place all throughout the academic year. This is a sight that you really do not want to miss.

If you would like further information on visiting, or to schedule a tour through the Citadel with one of the cadets, you can call (843) 953-5230.

The Charleston Visitor Center

In order to plan a trip to the Charleston area, you simply must first make a stop at the Charleston Visitor Center. This is THE place to go when you are looking to find out about all that the wonderful city of Charleston, South Carolina has to offer. The visitor center actually gets about one and a half million people that stop by for information throughout the year, with approximately 2,500 people stopping by in a single day.

When you first walk into the Charleston Visitor Center, you are greeted with many great photographs that create somewhat of a timeline telling you all about the history of the area. It is quite interesting to see, as well as the map of the Charleston peninsula that lays at your feet, built right into the floor. Then, you can head into another room where you will find tons of great information.

This second room is considered the Brochure Room where you will find a multitude of brochures filling all kinds of racks. You can find out about all of the available attractions in the area, as well as great places to dine and stay. There are even friendly staff members that are more than happy to answer any questions that you may have. If you would like, you can also purchase passes for certain events or transportation in Charleston at the counter here.

You do not want to miss the Visitor Center when you get to Charleston. The amount of valuable information that can be found here is just amazing. You will be glad that you stopped by to learn about all of the great stuff going on locally.

Viewing The Charleston Waterfront Park

If you are going to be in the area of Charleston, South Carolina, you should really think about visiting the Charleston Waterfront Park. Construction of this park began back in 1983, not to be finished until nearly a decade later. Now, this is a wonderful place that is just perfect for a visit by your entire family or sightseeing group.

The Charleston Waterfront Park is made up of approximately 12 gorgeous acres that run along the salt water marshes of the well-known Cooper River. Not only is this quite a lovely place to view, it is also a great spot to enjoy some wonderful relaxation while taking a break from all of your other sightseeing stops. The walking areas are all shaded by trees and the seating areas provide a nice way to stop and enjoy the area.

During your visit to Charleston Waterfront park, you can walk along the wharf and fishing pier or hang out on the well landscaped lawns. The formal garden areas are quite beautiful, with many people stopping from time to time just to snap a few pictures. People are often quite impressed with the amount of wonderful flowers and plants throughout the park. There are actually over 5,000 flowers and hundreds of wonderful large trees.

There are two fabulous fountains at the Charleston Waterfront Park that lend quite a decent distraction on any hot day. Children, if well supervised, are more than welcome to splash around a bit to cool off. If you have any questions regarding the park, you may call (800) 868-8118.

The Educational Charleston Museum

You simply cannot make a trip to South Carolina without a stop at the Charleston Museum. This museum is the perfect place to go to find out anything and everything that there is to know about this wonderfully historical area. The museum itself was actually founded way back in 1773, which is why it has been called America's First Museum. A trip to the museum, located right in the heart of downtown Charleston, is just perfect to enjoy with your entire family or sightseeing group.

There is always something wonderful and new going on at the museum in addition to the many permanent exhibits. Often times, you will find that there may be a special or traveling exhibit that you may enjoy. One exhibit that is quite popular is the Charleston Silver display. This is an entire gallery that is host to an impressive selection of silver that actually includes a christening cup that belonged to former President of the United States George Washington. You will be amazed at all of the wonderful, educational and interesting items that you will find behind the doors of the Charleston Museum.

When planning a trip to the Charleston Museum, it is best to know that it is open all year round with the exception of the major national holidays. The hours of operation are from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday and 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday. The cost of admission is only $10 for adults ages 13 and older and $4 for children ages 3 through 12 with children under the age of three admitted for free.

Visiting The Calhoun Mansion

Have you ever thought about taking a tour of historical homes the next time that you are in the Charleston, South Carolina area? These tours are a great way to learn all about the wonderful homes that are a big part of the rich history of the Charleston area. One of the homes that can be quite a decent stop with your family or sightseeing group is called the Calhoun Mansion.

The Calhoun Mansion is located at 16 Meeting Street, just a bit north of South Battery Street in downtown Charleston. This gorgeous structure was actually built all the way back in the year 1876. Many people love to look around at the beautiful woodwork in this mansion which includes fine cherry, walnut and oak. There is quite an impressive amount of original antique furniture still located all throughout the mansion, complete with gas chandeliers. These touches add a decent amount of charm to this already lovely home.

Many visitors are also surprised at the amazing ballroom that is located within the Calhoun Mansion. This lovely ballroom is complete with a stunning domed ceiling of glass. It is quite nice to imagine all of the stories that could be told if those walls could talk. Be sure to bring along your camera so that you can capture the splendor for yourself!

When you are looking to stop by the Calhoun Mansion, the hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. There are regular closings on Monday and Tuesday as well as all of the major national holidays. Cost of admission is only $15 for adults, $7 for children ages 5 through 10, and free for children ages 4 and under.

Stopping By Boomer's

If you are a reading fanatic, then you really need to stop by this wonderful bookstore called Boomer's the next time that you are in the area of Charleston, South Carolina. Boomer's Books and Collectibles is actually well known in the area to be Charleston's Readers' Store. Even if you are not an avid reader, this is the place to go if you are looking for the perfect gift for the reader in your life. A stop here is always an interesting one!

Boomer's Books and Collectibles is owned by a couple named Jim and Lee Breeden. They are quite passionate about their business and are always willing to answer any of the questions that the customers may have. Even if you have a book that you have been looking for that is really hard to find, they will do their best to help you get what you are in search of.

This could actually be called the largest used book collection in all of Charleston, with over 50,000 previously owned books in great condition. Many of these wonderful selections may actually be purchased at half price, as there is always a sale going on at Boomers. Make sure that you also take some time to sit back and chat for a while with the owners and visit with the resident cat, Purdy!

The hours that you may stop by Boomer's Books and Collectibles are from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm Monday through Saturday and from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm on Sunday. Boomer's is located right on 420 King Street in Charleston. If you have questions, or if you are looking for a certain book, give them a call at (843) 722-2666.

Blackwater Swamp Exhibit at Charleston Aquarium

If you are a lover of aquariums then the Charleston aquarium is the place to be. This aquarium has many different exhibits and a wealth of knowledge for any curious mind. One of their exhibits is the Blackwater swamp exhibit. This is a unique exhibit to the South Carolina aquarium and recreates a real swamp at twilight through the use of lights, sounds, and a misty atmosphere that make you feel like you are actually in a swamp.

On top of feeling like you are actually in a swamp, the aquarium has included models of animals that you would normally find in a swamp. You can find anoles, a warbler, and a snake. The use of fiber optic lights creates the impression of fireflies flying about the exhibit. The floor is treated with a special finish that makes the ground appear to be soft and squishy like any swamp would be. The ceiling is also lower than most to make you feel enclosed in this natural habitat.

You are also able to test your swamp IQ after visiting the Blackwater exhibit through an interactive panel that asks a series of true/false questions.

Ticket prices for adults to visit the Charleston aquarium are $15.00 per person. For youths ages 6 through 11 the price is $8.00, for children between the ages of 3 and 5 the price is also $8.00 and children under 2 get in free. During the summer the aquarium is open from 9am to 6pm Monday through Saturday and from 12pm to 6pm on Sunday. During the fall and winter the aquarium hours are 9am-5pm on Monday through Saturday, and 12pm-5pm on Sunday. You should also note that the aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas day, and a half day on December 24.

Viewing The Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge

There is quite a sight that you should not miss when you are in Charleston, South Carolina called the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge. This bridge, also known at the Cooper River Bridge is actually the longest cable-stayed bridge in all of North America. You pretty much have to see it to believe how majestic this bridge actually is. This could be a really unique experience for your whole family to be able to travel over such a wonderful structure.

The Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge is constructed above the Cooper River and is the main connector from downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant. Another thing that makes this bridge so interesting and unique is that the public in the surrounding area had quite a bit of input regarding the design of the bridge. In fact, the local public was the deciding factor when it came to the diamond tower design, and they actually chose it from several other options.

The local public also rallied to have a pedestrian and bicycle path worked into the amazing bridge design. Their work paid off, and there is a nice lane now along the outer edge of the bridge complete with observation sites and benches where you can look out at the splendor of the entire Charleston Region.

You will find that there are eight lanes that make up this massive bridge so as to accommodate a great amount of traffic. The bridge opened up to the delight of Charleston to replace the two other truss bridges that no longer filled the needs of the city.

The American Military Museum

Whether you are a military buff or not, you are sure to enjoy a visit to the American Military Museum. This wonderfully interesting museum is located right in the heart of historic Charleston, South Carolina. A trip here is quite a unique and one-of-a-kind experience that you are sure to remember for many years to come. Planning such an excursion would be perfect for your whole family or sightseeing group.

The American Military Museum in Charleston is loaded up with all kinds of neat military memorabilia. Some of this memorabilia is conveniently displayed in about 70 cases for your viewing. In these cases, you will find about 33 different flags, 260 various military uniforms and countless numbers of medals and artifacts from all of the branches of the military.

The American Military Museum is quite easy to find, especially if you are already in the downtown Charleston area. You will find it at 360 Concord Street, near the South Carolina Aquarium in the Aquarium Wharf area. When you set out for your visit to the museum, be sure that you bring along your camera with plenty of film so that you may take pictures of your experience.

Hours of operation for the American Military Museum are from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm Monday through Saturday and 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday. Admission prices are $6 for adults, $5 for senior citizens, $3 for students and $2 for children. If you have and questions or if you are looking for further information, you may call the American Military Museum offices at (843) 577-7000.