Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is back and better than ever. The grand opening of the renovated park across the Ashley River from downtown Charleston was held on Thursday, August 17, 2006. A state park since 1970, the site is where a ship full of British settlers and their servants arrived from Barbados and established the first permanent European colony in the Carolinas in 1670. A highlight of the 664-acre park is the new Visitor Center, which includes extensive, interactive exhibits describing how settlers, slaves, traders and Native Americans came together on this spot to forge the beginnings of what would become the plantation system of the American South. The park also includes a full-scale replica trading ship, protective palisades, a garden that includes crops from that time, a natural habitat zoo, ongoing archaeological activity, walking paths and full visitor amenities.

Welcome to the official Charleston area online visitors guide, where you can explore all the wonders of the historic Charleston area. Use the "Explore" link to discover the many sides of this vibrant region, and then use the TripPlanner tool to gather favorites and finalize your plans. We look forward to seeing you in Charleston...where history lives.

No matter who you are, or what your interest, South Carolina will make the corners of your mouth curl up with endless adventure, excitement, exploration and fun. Wander through America's oldest landscaped garden, take a swing at more than 330 golf courses, search for shells on pristine beaches, or kayak through undisturbed marshland. Discover your heritage within our own. So much of what makes America great began right here in South Carolina. The culture, art and folklore of our past make enchanting lessons in history.