Charleston Harbor’s most visible landmark is the USS Yorktown, a World War II–era aircraft carrier that served in the Pacific campaign from 1943 to 1945 as well as in the Vietnam War. Its massive interior is open for exploration, and the flight deck is home to more than two dozen aircraft, including an F4F Wildcat, an F-14 Tomcat, and an N-2 Stearman Kaydet biplane—not to mention stunning views of the Charleston skyline and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. The sprawling museum also houses the USS Laffey, a hands-on “Vietnam Experience” exhibit, and the Medal of Honor Museum, which pays tribute to America’s most valiant servants. In addition to welcoming day trips, it hosts an environmental-education field trip program and overnight camping visits for scouts and school groups.
