Explore Charleston

The Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, known as Explore Charleston, is a 501-C-6 nonprofit organization focused on promoting the Charleston area as a tourist destination. Destination marketing organizations (DMOs) like Explore Charleston play a vital role in showcasing a location and fostering sustainable tourism that benefits local communities. Explore Charleston aims to attract visitors to the greater Charleston region for overnight stays. This effort helped draw in 7.43 million visitors in 2019, generating job earnings exceeding $3.43 billion and contributing over $9.7 billion to the local economy. As a regional tourism marketing entity, Explore Charleston collaborates with ten different local governments across Charleston, Dorchester, and Berkeley Counties in South Carolina. Its funding comes from a mix of public and private sources, including membership fees, accommodation taxes, revenue from programs, and matching grants. The organization employs a dedicated team of professionals who manage marketing, media relations, communications, sales, and visitor services. Explore Charleston also oversees several affiliate organizations, including the Lowcountry Hospitality Association, Charleston & Resort Islands Golf, and the Charleston Area Sports Commission. Each of these affiliates operates with its own board, committees, and budgets while working under the Explore Charleston umbrella.