favorite things in charleston.
Charleston, South Carolina, is a charming city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culinary scene. With cobblestone streets, antebellum homes, and lush gardens, Charleston offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and culture.
Getting There
Charleston International Airport (CHS): Located about 12 miles from downtown, it offers flights from major U.S. cities.
Amtrak: The Silver Service train runs through Charleston, connecting it to cities like Savannah and Washington, D.C.
Interstate 26: Easily accessible via I-26, making it a convenient drive from nearby cities.
Best Activities and Hidden Gems
Historic Downtown: Stroll through historic streets filled with beautifully preserved antebellum architecture.
The Battery and White Point Garden: A scenic park offering views of historic mansions and Fort Sumter.
Rainbow Row: Iconic colorful historic houses that make for great photo opportunities.
Charleston City Market: A bustling market featuring local artisans, crafts, and food vendors.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: Explore stunning gardens and a historic plantation home. Learn more about Magnolia Plantation
The Charleston Museum: The oldest museum in the U.S., showcasing the city’s history and culture. Visit The Charleston Museum
Angel Oak Tree: A stunning live oak estimated to be over 400 years old, located on Johns Island. Discover Angel Oak Tree
Fort Sumter National Monument: Explore the site where the Civil War began with a ferry ride and guided tour. Learn more about Fort Sumter
Best Stores and Shops
Market Street Sweets: A local candy shop known for its pralines and other sweets. Visit Market Street Sweets
The Shops at Belmond Charleston Place: An upscale shopping destination featuring high-end brands. Explore The Shops at Belmond
Caviar & Bananas: A gourmet grocery store and cafe offering local products and delicious prepared foods. Check out Caviar & Bananas
The Pink House: A unique boutique offering home decor and gifts. Visit The Pink House
Kiawah Island Art Gallery: Showcases local artists and beautiful artwork. Discover Kiawah Island Art Gallery
King Street Shopping District: A lively area with a mix of boutiques, national brands, and specialty shops.
The Silver Spoon: A kitchenware and home goods store with unique items for cooking and entertaining. Visit The Silver Spoon
The Charleston Bead Company: Offers a variety of beads and supplies for jewelry making. Explore The Charleston Bead Company
Best Restaurants
Husk: Celebrated for its farm-to-table Southern cuisine in a historic setting. Visit Husk
FIG: A local favorite known for its seasonal menu and commitment to local ingredients. Explore FIG
The Ordinary: A seafood hall and oyster bar in a converted bank building. Check out The Ordinary
Poogan’s Porch: A charming restaurant serving traditional Southern fare. Visit Poogan’s Porch
The Peninsula Grill: Known for its upscale dining and famous coconut cake. Discover The Peninsula Grill
Oak Steakhouse: A fine dining steakhouse with a Southern twist and an extensive wine list. Visit Oak Steakhouse
Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar: Renowned for fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere. Explore Amen Street
Bacco: A high-rated Italian restaurant known for its pasta and wine selection. Check out Bacco
Best Bars
The Cocktail Club: A rooftop bar offering craft cocktails and stunning views of the city. Visit The Cocktail Club
The Gin Joint: An intimate bar specializing in artisanal cocktails. Explore The Gin Joint
Recovery Room: A laid-back bar known for its relaxed atmosphere and creative cocktails. Check out Recovery Room
The Macintosh: A trendy spot offering local craft beers and cocktails. Discover The Macintosh
Henry’s on the Market: A vibrant bar with a great selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere. Visit Henry’s on the Market
Bourbon N’ Bubbles: A stylish bar known for its extensive bourbon selection and craft cocktails. Check out Bourbon N’ Bubbles
Prohibition: A speakeasy-style bar with a vintage vibe and creative cocktails. Explore Prohibition
The Rooftop Bar at the Vendue: Offers stunning views of the waterfront and a lively atmosphere. Visit The Rooftop Bar
Best Dessert Spots
Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe: A dessert lover's paradise with a variety of sweet treats and decadent cakes. Visit Kaminsky's
Sweet Radish: A gourmet dessert shop offering artisanal treats and custom cakes. Explore Sweet Radish
Sugar Bakeshop: A charming bakery known for its cupcakes and cookies. Check out Sugar Bakeshop
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams: An artisanal ice cream shop with unique flavors and high-quality ingredients. Discover Jeni’s
Fruition: A dessert shop specializing in seasonal fruit-based treats and artisanal desserts. Visit Fruition
The Baked Bear: Custom ice cream sandwiches with freshly baked cookies. Explore The Baked Bear
Melt: Known for its gourmet ice creams and desserts in creative flavors. Check out Melt
Best Areas to Stay
Historic Downtown: Perfect for first-time visitors, this area is close to attractions, restaurants, and shopping.
French Quarter: Known for its art galleries and historic buildings, it offers a vibrant atmosphere.
South of Broad: An upscale neighborhood with historic homes and proximity to the waterfront.
King Street: Ideal for shoppers, with easy access to restaurants and nightlife.
Best Hotels
The Dewberry Charleston: A luxurious hotel blending modern amenities with historic charm. Visit The Dewberry
The Charleston Place: An elegant hotel located in the heart of downtown with a rooftop pool and spa. Explore The Charleston Place
The Vendue: An art hotel located near the waterfront, featuring local art and a rooftop bar. Check out The Vendue
The Francis Marion Hotel: A historic hotel with stunning views of the city and nearby attractions. Discover The Francis Marion
The Indigo Inn: A charming boutique hotel offering a cozy atmosphere and complimentary breakfast. Visit The Indigo Inn
The Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina: A waterfront resort with stunning views and multiple amenities. Explore The Charleston Harbor Resort
Conclusion
Charleston is a captivating city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. From strolling through historic streets to savoring the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this charming Southern city. Whether you’re exploring the gardens of Magnolia Plantation or enjoying dessert at Kaminsky's, Charleston promises an unforgettable experience.
