Champagne being poured into glasses with a bridge visible in the background.

Explore

Patriots Point

Explore historic WWII naval ships and military exhibits on the Mount Pleasant side of the harbor.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Patriots Point is a large maritime museum complex located on Charleston Harbor. Driving from downtown Charleston takes 10 to 15 minutes. Be aware that traffic around Mount Pleasant and the Ravenel Bridge gets heavy during rush hour.

Parking fees apply when you arrive by car. Museum entry requires a paid ticket. You can also see the ships from the water by booking one of the daily sightseeing cruises.

A plate of salmon on top of mashed sweet potatoes and green beans.

USS Yorktown

2-3 hours

This WWII aircraft carrier features flight deck aircraft exhibits and an Apollo 8 capsule replica. Navigating the ship requires climbing many steep stairs and ladders below deck.

A green and white ferry boat filled with passengers on the water.

USS Laffey

1 hour

This historic naval destroyer is known as 'The Ship That Would Not Die'. It earned this title after surviving a WWII kamikaze attack. Check out the immersive Mount 53 experience detailing the ship's heroic battle.

The Carolina Belle ferry boat travels under a large suspension bridge.

Medal of Honor Museum

30-45 minutes

This exhibit is located aboard the USS Yorktown. It honors the recipients of the highest military award in the United States. Take time to read the personal citations of the heroes displayed on the walls.