Randolph Hall, the main academic building on the College of Charleston campus. Charleston, SC. Built 1828-29 and one of the oldest college buildings still in use in the U.S. Classical, colonial antebellum style

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College of Charleston

Charleston


Spread over a few city blocks at the center of Charleston's downtown, this university was founded in 1770 and is the oldest in the state. The campus is notable for its lush landscaping, which includes live oaks draped in Spanish moss, as well as its historic mansions and homes, some of which contain residence halls and Greek institutions.

In 2017 Travel + Leisure named the campus America's most beautiful.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Charleston attractions

1. Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim

0.25 MILES

The oldest continuously used synagogue in the country, complete with a museum and gift shop. A tour costs $10 for adults and is free for children; check…

2. Marion Square

0.28 MILES

Charleston's most frequented park is 10 acres of green space in the middle of downtown, bordering on King, Calhoun, Meeting and Tobacco Sts. It's the home…

3. Joseph Manigault House

0.4 MILES

This three-story Federal-style house from 1803 was once the showpiece of a French Huguenot rice planter. There's a tiny neoclassical gate temple in the…

4. Charleston Museum

0.44 MILES

Founded in 1773, this is the country's oldest museum. It's helpful and informative if you're looking for historical background before strolling through…

5. Gibbes Museum of Art

0.44 MILES

Houses a decent collection of American and Southern works. The contemporary collection includes works by local artists, with Lowcountry life as a…

6. St Philip's Church

0.54 MILES

An Episcopal church erected in 1835, considered all-important by the first city residents. Lots of famous people were buried in the church cemetery and…

7. St Michael's Church

0.6 MILES

St Michael's is the oldest church in town, dating back to 1752, and its beloved bells have been announcing the time and various events, including…

8. Aiken-Rhett House

0.6 MILES

The only surviving urban town-house complex, this 1820 abode gives a fascinating glimpse into antebellum life on a 45-minute self-guided audio tour. The…