charleston, sc

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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

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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

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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! 

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hominy grill

Busy yet relaxed eatery dishing up Lowcountry classics in homey digs, also popular for its brunch.

207 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403

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rodney scott's bbq

Celebrated counter-serve joint for Lowcountry-style slow-smoked pulled pork BBQ, chicken & ribs.

1011 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

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167 raw

Cozy, casual seafood eatery serving oysters, lobster rolls, fish tacos, ceviche & more.

289 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401

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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

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sorghum & salt

Modern, rustic vibe and an inventive menu that focuses heavily on creative preparations of vegetables

186 Coming St, Charleston, SC 29403

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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

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workshop

Six vendors share space in this trendy food court, offering coffee & an eclectic mix of cuisines.

1503 King St, Charleston, SC 29405

xiao bao biscuit

Creative, multicultural Asian cooking & specialty cocktails in a trendy converted gas station.

224 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403

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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

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mccrady's tavern

Acclaimed spot for high-concept, locally sourced American food in an intimate, brick-walled setting.

2 Unity Alley, Charleston, SC 29401

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

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the darling oyster bar 

Stylish spot with vintage appeal for creative seafood dishes, fry baskets & raw oysters.

513 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

the ordinary 

This 1920s bank now houses an upscale seafood restaurant with high ceilings, large windows & a bar.

544 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

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husk

An ever-changing menu of locally sourced Southern dishes served in a restored Victorian-era home.

Address: 76 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401

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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

SNOB

Modern Southern & Lowcountry cuisine served in an airy, 18th-century warehouse.

192 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401


play

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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 

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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. 

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folly beach

Just a 20 minute drive from downtown, Folly beach is ideal for surfing, fishing and souvenir shops 

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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 

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explore king street 

Main street through downtown Charleston with rows of shopping and fantastic restaurants 

 

Charleston tourism board 

For other city activities and fantastic travel advice including shopping, restaurants and hotels visit the CVB website! 

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walking tour

Explore the history of the city on foot including Waterfront Park, The Battery, Rainbow Row, the Pineapple Fountain and other beautiful architecture

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city market  

Long running historic market complex in downtown with many local craft & jewelry vendors 

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ghost tour 

Check out Bulldog tours for haunted ghost and nighttime jail tours