Charleston is the highlighted “Free City” in the March 2010 issue of National Geographic Traveler. The article is broken down into various sections, including: art/music, attractions, culture, kids and outdoors.

The article begins:

Don’t be fooled by appearances—although grandiose architecture and the sense of old Southern aristocracy abound in Charleston, South Carolina, this little city plays host to many options that won’t cost you a penny. With beautiful weather most of the year, you can spend the majority of your trip outside, simply strolling along the shore and through the many parks and cemeteries in this old Southern town. Charleston is brimming with history, so be sure to visit some of the many historical attractions throughout the city. The variety of free activities is proof that Southern hospitality is still alive and well.

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Many of the tried-and-true Charleston favorites are mentioned, like King Street, the Old City Market, Rainbow Row and the Battery. Some new mentions for the Charleston area include free deck shows at The Pourhouse, the Citadel dress parade where cadets march every Friday while school is in session and several others.

Other spotlights include:

• Local art galleries like Robert Lange Studios, Gallery Chuma and Sylvan Gallery
• Charleston’s only winery and creator of the original Firefly sweet tea vodka, Irvin-House Vineyards
• The downtown Farmer’s Market’s fresh, local produce and live entertainment
• The awe-inspiring, 1,500-year-old Angel Oak tree on Johns Island

Read the full article here.