The Southeastern Spine Institute

Charleston, South Carolina, is a coastal city full of Southern charm and history. Known for its beautiful sights, historic homes and southern hospitality, Charleston was ranked one of the best cities in America by Travel and Leisure. Whether you’re in town to visit a specialist at the Southeastern Spine Institute (SSI) or accompany a family member, you’ll find fun in Charleston around every corner.

Charleston offers many activities, from aquatic tours to mouthwatering Southern cuisine. You don’t have to worry about putting any strain on your back or your wallet. There’s an activity for everyone.

Take a Tour

Tours in Charleston are fun for all ages. If you’re recovering from back surgery or experiencing discomfort in your back, taking a tour that doesn’t involve a lot of walking lets you rest your back while having fun in Charleston. Many museum tours accommodate wheelchairs, canes and walkers. There are even bus or schooner tours that allow you to sit back and take in the sights. Here are some tour ideas while visiting Charleston:

  • Museum Tours. Museums in Charleston cater to all interests. The Charleston Museum Mile offers six museums, historic homes and parks to visit. You can learn more about the history of Charleston at “America’s First Museum” — The Charleston Museum. The Gibbers Museum of Art showcases art that is symbolic of Charleston. If you have children in tow, the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry offers hands-on exhibits that everyone can enjoy.
  • South Carolina Aquarium. The aquarium is home to more than 5,000 animals. Take an educational tour to learn about the aquatic wildlife of the lowcountry or dive into one of the aquarium’s many hands-on programs. The South Carolina Aquarium offers your whole family fun in Charleston.
  • City Tours. Nicknamed the “Holy City,” Charleston is home to many historic churches. Take a tour around the city to learn about Charleston’s Civil War history or take in the beautiful views from one of the many bus tours available.
  • Sailing Tour. If you’re feeling up to it, set sail on a schooner tour. You don’t have to be on land to have fun in Charleston. Relax while sailing past Fort Sumter, the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Enjoy the ocean breeze as you view Charleston from its harbor. You may even spot a pod of dolphins.

Shopping Fun Galore

Your shopping options in Charleston are endless. Visit King Street to browse the many unique boutiques and stores. Shop at the City Market, an open-air market with local vendors selling everything from custom-made spices to sweetgrass baskets.

If you’re looking for familiar chain stores, nearby Mount Pleasant — home of SSI — and North Charleston offer shopping malls with popular stores. But the downtown shopping district is a recommended stop.

Grab a Bite to Eat

There’s no shortage of food to eat in Charleston. You can take in a casual dining experience or visit one of Charleston’s high-end restaurants. Whether you want breakfast, lunch or dinner, the hardest decision you’ll make is — what to eat.

Try a fresh seafood dish at Hank’s Seafood Restaurant or visit the Charleston Farmers Market for brunch from one of the many local food vendors. There’s a restaurant for every taste. Whether it’s chicken and waffles from the Early Bird Diner or a sticky bun from WildFlour Pastry, Charleston has a restaurant to keep your taste buds happy.

Nightlife Keeps Turns Out Too

Just because the sun is setting doesn’t mean your fun in Charleston has to end. Market Street and Upper King Street boast most of Charleston’s bars. Experience the amazing Charleston view from above at The Rooftop or grab a craft beer at the popular Closed for Business Bar. Dive bars are plentiful and the Alley’s bowling lanes and arcade keep all ages entertained.

Before you head out to enjoy one of the many sites that are so fun in Charleston, get approval from your doctor and physical therapist at SSI to ensure your recovery goes as planned. And that includes your diet, as well as the types of physical activity your body can take. And listen closely to your body. It tells you when you need a break and when it wants to move again!