South Carolina: Charleston

Score: 77

"Charleston is a city of firsts, both for historic preservation and forward thinking on tourism."

"The historic area is extremely well crafted but runs the risk of becoming a re-created historic environment. The redevelopment of the old market into a boutique zone loses the authenticity. Historic old mansions just outside the town are 'authentically' preserved and well presented, maintaining the sense of pathos and decay that was the result of plantations with slave labor." "Charleston's cultural and historical heritage, events (Spoleto Arts Festival), fine dining, shopping, walking and horse-carriage tours, and beaches attract millions of visitors. There is, however, one element that affects its overall appeal: The integration of the Afro-American community and heritage is absent."

"As good a job as any place in America of managing its tourism and restoring its resources. The only real disappointment is the Old Market, which just sells tacky junk."