Lowcountry Art and Culture

The Lowcountry is known for its southern charm and hospitality, but did you know it is also rich in arts and culture? With a thriving art scene, ranging from immersive festivals in Charleston to eclectic art galleries in Beaufort and Port Royal, there is something for everyone.

History and culture are also at the forefront of Lowcountry entertainment. With history walking tours, abundant interactive museums, and mouthwatering regional food, visitors in this part of the country can effortlessly dive into the local culture. Continue reading to explore some of the top places and activities to experience Lowcountry art and culture.

Where to Experience Lowcountry Art

The South Carolina Lowcountry has been known to inspire artists with its picturesque landscapes and tranquil waters. From salt marshes to beach palms, local artists are spoiled with never-ending inspiration for their creations. 

Beaufort Art Galleries

The historic town of Beaufort, South Carolina, was founded in 1711 and offers a wide range of artistic culture that beckons from the past, present, and future. The Thibault Gallery on Bay Street in Beaufort’s downtown gives visitors access to local artists’ creations, such as colorful sea-themed paintings and eye-popping sculptures. The owner, Mary Thibault, wanted to create a place where artists could share their talents and grow their presence, and she did just that at this one-of-a-kind local gem.

Atelier Off Bay is another Beaufort highlight, with 14 working professional artists displaying their creative pieces and a collection of workshops and classes so anyone can get involved. Also located in downtown Beaufort on the corner of Bay and West streets, this gallery provides easy access to some of the most dynamic art in the Lowcountry and is a must-visit the next time you’re in Beaufort.

Hilton Head Performing Arts

Located in the heart of Hilton Head, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina is an award-winning regional arts center showcasing performing and visual arts. You can experience this local performance art center in a variety of ways, including its theater series, community festivals, and educational programs.

The Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra is another excellent option for those looking to experience some art in the Lowcountry. Here, you can attend a concert tied to one of their orchestra series, with the current and 43rd series running through the end of April. Tickets are purchased online for their concerts, usually performed on Sundays and Mondays. 

Charleston Museums

Charleston, South Carolina, is consistently rated as one of the best places to visit in the country, and one reason is its abundance of museums. While there are many history museums, like the South Carolina Historical Society, the city really shines in the art department. Visits to the Gibbes Museum of Art and the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art inspire art lovers.

The Gibbes Museum houses over 10,000 works of Southern art and has hosted exhibitions since 1858, all incorporating a regional connection. The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art is located on the College of Charleston’s campus and showcases numerous works of art by emerging artists. The institute also hosts a year-round schedule of screenings, panels, and exhibitions.

Related: A List of Historic Landmarks in Charleston to Visit

Immersive Lowcountry Culture

Just as the Lowcountry is abundant in art, its culture is just as vibrant. From delicious eats to historic walking tours, you can take yourself back in time in the Lowcountry.

Lowcountry Cuisine

The Gullah people from Africa profoundly impacted Lowcountry culture, particularly its cuisine. Today’s chefs recreate recipes passed down through generations, using locally sourced produce. Gullah-inspired dishes, including okra gumbo, shrimp and grits, and collard greens, are staples of Lowcountry cuisine. 

You can enjoy Gullah cuisine at numerous spots throughout the Lowcountry; however, some of the best include 82 Queen and Hannibal’s Kitchen. Both places serve Gullah-style dishes that will have you coming back for more.

Charleston Walking Tours

From delectable culinary tours to spooky ghost tours, there are ample opportunities to experience the Lowcountry on foot. For those looking to take a peek behind the curtain of time, Charleston’s Hidden Alleyways and Passages tour takes patrons along alleys filled with history, offering remarkable insight into the history of the Holy City. 

For visitors looking for a more traditional walking tour, the classic Downtown Charleston Walking Tour packs all of the main historic stops into a 2-hour tour, including popular sites like Rainbow Row and the French Quarter.  

Historical Museums

History buffs enjoy a myriad of museums to enjoy in the Lowcountry. The International African American Museum is a popular destination, offering an afternoon rich with stories of historical figures and events, spanning from slavery to the Civil Rights Movement and continuing into the present day.

The Charleston Museum is often celebrated as America’s first museum and is a must-visit when in the Holy City. This downtown institution masterfully interprets the cultural and natural history of the Charleston area, with exhibits that include fossils, colonial clothing, and more.

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