Founded in 1670 by a group of English aristocrats as an intended moneymaking venture, ‘Charles Towne’ swiftly boomed, exporting products from the region’s rice and cotton plantations. The Civil War started on Charleston’s very doorstep at Fort Sumter, strategically situated on an island in the harbor. Combining history and plenty of Southern charm, Charleston is a compelling place to visit. Tour the historic district by horse-drawn carriage and discover stately homes adorned with wooden shutters, ironwork balconies, leafy patios and hidden gardens. Watch Gullah weavers create sweet grass baskets and immerse yourself in this friendly city’s ante-bellum ambiance.