Long inhabited by Native American tribes like the Wando and Etiwan, what is now South Carolina’s Lowcountry welcomed 150 English colonists in 1670 when they sailed into Charleston harbor aboard Carolina. The settlement was named Charles Town in honor of King Charles II and renamed Charleston in 1783.

The city’s maritime history continues today with several cruise lines calling upon the Holy City. Fortunately for those visiting before, after or even during their voyages, the cruise terminal lies within close proximity of historic downtown Charleston, fairly walkable and accessible via the city’s complimentary DASH hop on/ hop off shuttle.

While Rainbow Row — elegant, pastel-hued historical homes lining the Battery — certainly proves a must-see in Charleston, you’ll find plenty of other ways to spend your time. Consider visiting International African American Museum, opened last summer and sharing the stories of the African American experience in Charleston, South Carolina, the United States and around the world. The Gibbes Museum of Art, founded in 1858 and one of the country’s oldest arts organizations, houses more than 10,000 works of American art in its permanent collection. Myriad festivals take place in and around historic downtown Charleston annually, many boasting national acclaim, such as Spoleto Festival USA, a 17-day celebration of the arts in the late spring. Experience the city’s rich music history at Charleston Jazz Festival and peek into private homes and gardens during The Charleston Festival each April; and dig into the flavors of the Lowcountry at Charleston Wine + Food festival every March.

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Speaking of Lowcountry fare, Charleston is all about food, and you’ll find plenty of delectable spots right in the historic city center. For nearly 35 years, Magnolias on East Bay Street has served Lowcountry fine-dining favorites like shellfish over grits and a Lowcountry bouillabaisse, and innovative and unexpected dishes like its popular Down South Egg Roll. Other must-dine spots in the city include Husk, Edmund’s Oast, FIG and The Grocery for a fresh take on a handful of vegetarian dishes.

Or for a true taste of local Charleston, stop by Charleston Farmers Market at Marion Square each Saturday from April through November.

However you experience Charleston, you will no doubt feel the warm embrace of the city’s undeniable Southern hospitality.