charleston, sc
Charleston is truly a city that should not be missed in your lifetime. Founded in 1670, it is the oldest and largest city in South Carolina. The layout is defined by cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and pastel antebellum houses, particularly in the elegant French Quarter. This is a city that can satisfy the cravings of any history buff or foodie. Marvel at the towering colonial homes, surf at the beach, and eat your way through an endless supply of grits, fresh seafood and bbq. Wherever your trip takes you, you will be met with unparalleled southern hospitality. Here's what I would do there:
STAY
Belmond Charleston Place
The Belmond offers classic, timeless elegance. The hotel's decor is complete with exquisitely carved furniture, sweeping staircases & bright chandeliers. Inside each room guests find marble bathrooms, original art & contemporary luxuries. For added decadence, check into a Club Suite for skyline views & VIP entry to the Club Lounge. Amenities include an onsite spa & indoor/outdoor swimming pool. In addition to being centrally located, the property boasts many dining and shopping options of its own.
Address: 205 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
harbourview inn
Nestled in the historic district of Charleston, HarbourView Inn features light-filled rooms and sweeping views of the Charleston harbor. Borrow a bike for city exploring, take in skyline views from the private rooftop terrace, and enjoy complimentary breakfast & happy hour. Ideally located on the waterfront, the hotel is perfect for exploring nearby attractions like Rainbow Row, The Battery, City Market, and King street shopping & dining.
Address: 2 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401
eat
For my city guides, I try to have a mix of everything - new restaurants, iconic venues, and tourist spots worth a visit. These will range from casual cafes for breakfast to suit jacket fine dining. As with all guides, it is not exhaustive but hopefully full of wonderful recommendations that will help you make the most of your visit!
hominy grill
Busy yet relaxed eatery dishing up Lowcountry classics in homey digs, also popular for its brunch.
207 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403
rodney scott's bbq
Celebrated counter-serve joint for Lowcountry-style slow-smoked pulled pork BBQ, chicken & ribs.
1011 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
167 raw
Cozy, casual seafood eatery serving oysters, lobster rolls, fish tacos, ceviche & more.
289 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
callie's hot little biscuit
Snug counter serve featuring several types of biscuits, plus grab-&-go sandwiches, coffee & tea.
476 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
sorghum & salt
Modern, rustic vibe and an inventive menu that focuses heavily on creative preparations of vegetables
186 Coming St, Charleston, SC 29403
lewis barbecue
Texas-style house-smoked meats served in an industrial-hip space with a bar & outdoor tables.
464 N Nassau St, Charleston, SC 29403
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fig
Elevated takes on Southern classics with seasonal ingredients served in an upscale-bistro setting.
232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
workshop
Six vendors share space in this trendy food court, offering coffee & an eclectic mix of cuisines.
1503 King St, Charleston, SC 29405
photo: Post and Courier
xiao bao biscuit
Creative, multicultural Asian cooking & specialty cocktails in a trendy converted gas station.
224 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403
the obstinate daughter
Eclectic New American fare, plus a raw bar, pizza & pasta served in an elegant, country-style space.
2063 Middle St, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482
mccrady's tavern
Acclaimed spot for high-concept, locally sourced American food in an intimate, brick-walled setting.
2 Unity Alley, Charleston, SC 29401
photo: Eater Charleston
leon's
Relaxed joint serving oysters, Southern-style seafood & fried chicken in a rustic, trendy setting.
698 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
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butcher & bee
Hip outpost offering a rotating menu of inventive, seasonal cuisine made with local ingredients.
1085 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403
the darling oyster bar
Stylish spot with vintage appeal for creative seafood dishes, fry baskets & raw oysters.
513 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
photo: Post and Courier
the ordinary
This 1920s bank now houses an upscale seafood restaurant with high ceilings, large windows & a bar.
544 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
husk
An ever-changing menu of locally sourced Southern dishes served in a restored Victorian-era home.
Address: 76 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
poe's tavern
Relaxed watering hole with a menu of America grub & decor devoted to author Edgar Allan Poe.
2210 Middle St, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482
photo: Post and Courier
SNOB
Modern Southern & Lowcountry cuisine served in an airy, 18th-century warehouse.
192 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
play
Schooner Pride sunset sail
2 hour sails! There are no set courses, she sails with the winds and tides so every cruise is unique. Small crowd, very romantic
sullivan's island
Beach town 20 minutes from downtown Charleston. Walk along the beachfront mansions in Isle of Palms or stop into the town for great casual dining.
folly beach
Just a 20 minute drive from downtown, Folly beach is ideal for surfing, fishing and souvenir shops
old south carriage company
Explore Charleston's rich history on the back of a horse & carriage for a 1 hour tour with an expert guide
explore king street
Main street through downtown Charleston with rows of shopping and fantastic restaurants
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Charleston tourism board
For other city activities and fantastic travel advice including shopping, restaurants and hotels visit the CVB website!
walking tour
Explore the history of the city on foot including Waterfront Park, The Battery, Rainbow Row, the Pineapple Fountain and other beautiful architecture
city market
Long running historic market complex in downtown with many local craft & jewelry vendors
ghost tour
Check out Bulldog tours for haunted ghost and nighttime jail tours
