Family-owned jewelry store Croghan's appears on just about every Charleston list you'll read, and for good reason. Visit Charleston for an unforgettable adventure. Quick Links:Weddings and EventsLocal BusinessesGet a Printed GuideNews. While the South of Broad area houses the most expensive houses, you can find gorgeous architecture on everything from St. Phillip's Church to the houses on Tradd Street. South Carolina Vacation Guide Request Form Charleston First Time Visitor Guide + Itinerary | Tour Pass Book a stay at the iconicCharleston Place to experience luxurious accommodations in the middle of the historic district. It has 3 fantastic beaches within easy driving distance of the main historic area, and there's gorgeous architecture wherever you turn. When it's raining in Charleston, head inside to explore the city's museums and historic homes, including: If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. The Dewberry, which describes itself as "offering old-world charm with a distinctive modern edge," is right downtown, just a block from King Street. Weve taken 2, both of which I recommend. Palm Boulevard has shops and restaurants a plenty, but we love the Acme Lowcountry Kitchen on JC Long Boulevard (walking distance from the main beach access and pier). No matter your vacation style, your travel party size or your ideal itinerary, Charleston is home to alluring accommodations for every visitor. Surfers and locals hit Chico Feo for beer and tacos or Lowlife for tasty cocktails and shrimp rolls seasoned with Old Bay. Some travelers felt it expensive, however, for the handful of rooms they could visit, as the family occupies the top floor. The vessel was considered lost to time until it was rediscovered in 1995. Thank you! She started Cosmos Mariners in 2014 as a way to bridge the gap between her love of travel and her career as an English professor, and she hopes that the sites content will help you to truly travel smarter! Those trips can be done on the local CARTA bus system, but keep in mind that our public transportation can be slow. The bridge has an awesome biking and walking path, and you can access it from downtown or Mount Pleasant. Other notable artifacts and exhibits at this Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, museum include two historic ships, a Medal of Honor Museum, 28 aircraft and a 2.5-acre "Vietnam Experience," which recreates a Navy base complete with a mess hall, a fire control bunker and a river patrol boat to simulate what it was like for soldiers during the Vietnam War. Walking south down King Street, past bars, boutiques, and Southern-style restaurants, you'll end up at two key points of interest: the city's defensive seawall called The Battery and an enchanting stretch of Southern live oaks in White Point Garden. The bridge, which connects Charleston and Mount Pleasant, is named after Charleston politician Arthur Ravenel who led the campaign for the bridge to be constructed over the Cooper River. Chez Nou, found on Instagram @cheznouscharleston, posts its European-inspired lunch and dinner menu each day: two appetizers, two entrees, and two desserts. Its just one of the many amazing places to see in McClellanville, South Carolina! This clutch of Georgian-style row houses overlooking Charleston Harbor was formerly the heart and soul of the city's merchant and maritime activity. Whether you're a longtime resident or returning visitor, we're here to show you the best places to eat, places to stay, and the best things to do while you're in town. Initially, Susan Pringle Frost, founder of the Preservation Society of Charleston, bought six homes to restore. Hours: The South Carolina Aquarium is open 9-5 daily. Visitors can see this blend of design styles in the home's public rooms and outdoor piazzas, as well as the extensive collection of period pieces from furniture and mirrors to portraits and Alston family silver. Sitting at the mouth of the Charleston harbor a little less than 10 miles east of the downtown area Sullivan's Island boasts beaches, tasty restaurants and unique shops. Would you like to receive e-mail updates about deals and events in Charleston? Take your camera, wander the streets, and explore down the residential alleys. OFFICIAL AREA VISITORS GUIDE O fficial Charleston Area South Carolina Visitors Guide ExploreCharleston.com SOUTH CAROLINA CHARLESTON NORTH CHARLESTON MOUNT PLEASANT FOLLY BEACH ISLE OF PALMS . Confederate forces fired the first shots of the Civil War at Federal troops at Fort Sumter at 4:30 a.m. on April 12, 1861. Today, the well-preserved property remains in the Alston family. Download the guide or request your free copy today and start planning your next adventure in the . For travelers looking for slightly lower accommodation prices than what you'll find downtown, James Island features several more budget-friendly hotels and rentals to choose from. Dating back to the mid-1700s, the structures hold an important place in Charleston's history. A mix of beach gear, walking-appropriate clothing and shoes, and a few elevated pieces should make it in your suitcase before heading to Charleston. Book Now. It was suddenly lost at sea in 1864 and remained so until 1995 when it was discovered off the coast of Sullivan's Island with the help of thriller author Clive Cussler. Charleston, South Carolina, fondly known as "The Holy City," boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene. According to many, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum is a unique and educational place to learn about life in Charleston during the 19th century. The annual Holiday Festival of Lights, a three-mile driving tour through James Island County Park, is a favorite family-friendly activity in the evenings. From there, meander past stately three-story mansions or into the French Quarter where homes are still lit by flickering gas lamps. There are also many smaller Charleston boutique hotels if you're looking for a more intimate experience. White Point Garden, Charleston - Book Tickets & Tours - GetYourGuide If you're willing to drive further away from downtown, Hampton Plantationin McClellanville is never crowded. Sullivan's Island: A two-and-a-half-mile-long barrier island, Sullivan's Island is more than just a beach town. <<. There's a lot of military history in the Charleston area as well. The areas above Line Street--where the Ravenel bridge runs over downtown--can be volatile when it's dark, and tourists are easy targets for muggings. You can get a ferry over to this national monument from Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant or from the pier near the South Carolina Aquarium downtown. A stagnant menu? Ferries to the monument depart from the Fort Sumter visitor center (in Charleston) and from Patriot's Point, which sits just opposite of the harbor in USS Yorktown State Park (parking is available at both departure points). Grab a burger at Poe's Tavern (YUM) and people watch on Middle Street, then head to the Fort Moultrie National Historic Site. Yorktown, the U.S.S. Pleasant): traditional gyro, Halls Chophouse(downtown): any of the steaks, the corn casserole side dish, Eli's Table (downtown): filet mignon, pimento cheese and tomato appetizer, Peninsula Grill (downtown): the coconut cake, The Flying Biscuit(Mount Pleasant): breakfast quesadilla, chicken and waffles, Acme Cantina (Isle of Palms): the Southerner (sweet tea fried chicken on a biscuit). Reservations for the in-demand restaurant can be hard to come by, and count yourself lucky if you can sneak into a seat at the bar. CWV | Charleston, West Virginia - Events, Hotels & Things To Do Complete with a drive-through and bright blue picnic tables, Rodney Scott's BBQ is home to every Southern delicacy you could possibly imagine: collard greens, hush puppies, banana pudding, and crunchy pig skins. Across the Cooper River and Charleston Harbor lies Shem Creek, where you can rent kayaks or paddle boards to paddle alongside dolphins and explore the surrounding creek and marsh. On the main floor, you'll find the cozy Living Room, where you can refresh with coffee or cocktails or grab a bite to eat. Food tends to be a popular topic of conversation in Charleston, as the F&B scene is paramount for most visitors, but theres plenty to do in between meals. The Ordinary (downtown): oysters on the half shell, Red's Ice House (Mt. If you'd like to see more of the Charleston area, I highly recommend renting a car or taking a cab out to one of the beaches. PROS: Less expensive than downtown hotels; outdoor pools; ample parking, CONS: Have to rent a car; have to then fight downtown Charleston parking while sightseeing. Considerably larger than Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, this 738-acre property is best known for its Avenue of the Oaks: a lengthy corridor of 1700s-era live oak trees that form a picturesque canopy over the path leading up to the historic mansion. Adventure Harbor Tours receives high praise from previous visitors for its Morris Island tours and sunset cruises. While this area (up to the 26 overpass) is safe during the day, be cautious about venturing away from the main thoroughfares at night. It houses the U.S.S. Local and international food, wine and cocktail talent host the events. If you're looking for a narrated experience, sign up for a Charleston Harbor Tour: its daily harbor tours pass more than 75 sights while the captain shares stories and facts about the area. Of course, the best way to immerse yourself in the city is to do as Charlestonians do and stroll downtown. Strolling through Charleston's charming downtown is one of the best free activities. var l = window.location.href, Pitmasters across the Palmetto State know it's the time-honored tradition of cooking pork "slow and low" that keeps visitors coming back for seconds. 16 Patriots Point Road. Recent visitors said the tree is worth a quick stop to take a photo of the magnificent natural wonder. 5) GO TO FORT SUMTER. Originally built in the early 1800s and . Another bedroom community of Charleston that's quite upscale. That said, December is a magical time in Charleston. Founded in 1773, the Charleston Museum is said to be the country's first museum, and with a focus on the South Carolina Lowcountry, it's a perfect place to learn about the area. Oh, and there are three beaches that each have a unique vibe! If you're planning a trip to the Holy City, you need this visitors guide to Charleston, SC! The bright, airy rooms and common spaces have a relaxed feel to them the exact kind of atmosphere youd expect when visiting a coastal city. If youre looking for something more lowkey, though, a cocktail, a glass of wine, or a quick nightcap are best enjoyed at a variety of local favorites, including Bar Rollins, Babas on Cannon, Bin 152, Graft Wine Shop, and The Bar & Patio at Husk. In both situations, you'd never run out of things to do. Read U.S. News Insider Tips for first-hand advice on our favorite attractions. Yes, downtown Charleston is safe. You can't get on either island without a pass, but Kiawah's Beachwalker Park is open to the public. Published annually, the official Charleston Visitors Guide is full of gorgeous photography, insider tips, maps, and resources to help you plan your Charleston vacation. Located just 16 miles east of the city, visitors will find about 7 miles of shoreline, ideal for swimming, sailing, windsurfing or sunbathing. William Aiken Jr. and his wife in the 1830s and 1850s, much of the house's original style has been preserved. Guests at the expertly curated boutique inn and tavern born out of the creative minds behind Charleston firm Basic Projects enjoy Southern hospitality in Old Village Mount Pleasant, a 10-minute drive from downtown. Charleston.com is the official city website dedicated to helping you find the best of everything in Charleston, South Carolina. 2023 Vacation Guide | South Carolina Tourism Official Site This is one of the biggest mix-ups I hear about Charleston attractions. Visitor Centers Statewide . While there, head to Old Village Historic District to catch the unparalleled views from Pitt Street Bridgewhich used to connect the town to the adjacent Sullivan's Island. There's a large shopping center, Towne Center, for last minute souvenir shopping, and Mount Pleasant offers bridge access to both Sullivans Island and Isle of Palms. Charleston Travel Guide (2023) | Getting to and around Charleston The association with America's first president has persisted ever since. Considered one of the best foodie cities in the USA, Charleston is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and bevy of trendy restaurants. Rain is relatively common in spring, but it's arguably one of the best times of the year in Charleston, with temperatures varying from 60 to 80 degrees and Southern blooms like wisteria, jasmine, and azaleas coming out in full force. Besides the sandy shore, there are several popular restaurants (including Poe's Tavern, The Obstinate Daughter, and Home Team BBQ), bike paths, and some of the dreamiest beach houses you'll find in the Charleston area. Another great way to experience the food of Charleston is to take a food centered tour! Founded in 1670, Charleston is cited for its beauty, its history, its restaurants, its livability, its shopping, its business climate, and its romantic appeal. Although the aquarium is on the smaller side, recent travelers reported it was chock-full of interactive exhibits and interesting things to see and do. It has been a shopping hub since the 1800s and is one of the country's oldest city markets. This post contains affiliates. Car services like Uber and Lyft are common and relatively affordable in Charleston, but its also a walkable and bikeable city. You probably remember Fort Sumter as the place where the first shot of the Civil War was fired back in 1861. Located on Broad Street, right below Colonial Lake, is Burbage's Grocery, a family-run specialty grocery store locals return to again and again. Many visitors say the beach is ideal for families. Your information will never be sold or misused. No, thanks. While some may say that the Charleston City Market is a bit of a tourist trap, others call it a great glimpse into life in the Old South. Visitors | Charleston, SC - Official Website Get a PDF packed with all of the things you need to do across Charleston, exclusive to Cosmos Mariners subscribers. Note that not all of these are in the historic district! Yes to both. Please pay it forward. Historic Antebellum Mansions, Civil War sites, year round festivals, pristine beaches, barrier islands, and mouthwatering Lowcountry cuisine are just a few of the reasons why Charleston SC is one of America's favorite destinations. Bring your kids' bathing suits (or a change of clothing) because they WILL want to splash in the water! Not at all. Use caution when selecting an AirBnB or hotel in this area as there are pockets of crime. Emeline is set in the heart of historic Charleston and home to Frannie and The Fox, an Italian eatery that has hotel guests and locals alike flocking to the wood-fired pizza and outdoor dining options. U.S. News Insider Tip: If food is a priority, Sullivan's Island offers the widest and best assortment of restaurants of Charleston's three main beaches. . Charleston.com is here to show you the rich history and culture of this friendly waterfront city. Stop by Babas on Cannon for European-inspired dishes, an espresso, and maybe an aperitif or two. CONS: Because it's in the middle of the action, this location can be noisy no matter the time of day or night. In fact, Drayton Hall was America's first and best example of the style. Bachelor/bachelorette parties on King Street, cultural based family travel, a family beach reunion, or a couple's romantic getaway are all equally possible here! The recommended hotels below are ones that I personally have experience with and can recommend to my readers! In Mount Pleasant, I recommendHampton InnPatriots Point. The Ultimate Charleston Travel Guide This is the insider's guide to the charming Southern city. Experience this diverse southern city which blends French, English, West African and traditional Southern American cultures into the music, art, food, and lifestyle. Today, White Point Garden attracts both locals and tourists to its historic monuments and markers, shaded benches and its gazebo, which hosts weddings and other events. Come here for the nature and the surfing, or head to the pier to sit and fish. Three restored historic homes and two brick carriage homes house 16 luxurious rooms that exude rest and relaxation. Another mid-sized city northwest of the harbor. 80 Broad Street. PROS: fantastic location across the street from the Market; 1 block from the majority of the shopping on King Street; convenient to both ends of the historic district; there's an onsite pool. >> Get my full list of suggestions on the best things to do in Charleston SC. 256 full color pages, with insider tips, maps, & listings on where to stay & what to do in Charleston, SC. Babies 0-2 are free. The 15 Best Charleston Tours - U.S. News Travel The 21 Best Things to Do in Charleston - Cond Nast Traveler Check out my Discover Charleston digital visitors center! Lower King, East Bay, and Meeting Streets are all safe no matter the time of day, so strap on those walking shoes, grab your guidebook, and head out the door! Though the ferry ride is not the main attraction, most enjoyed it, calling it relaxing and a great way to see some of the area's dolphins. Shes also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com. See Charleston through the eyes of people who love to call our city home. In this post, I'll cover everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Charleston, including my favorite time to visit, the rundown on all the top tourist attractions, and my personal picks for some of the best restaurants. After Hurricane Hugo destroyed much of Charleston in 1989, Upper King was one of the hardest hit areas, and large portions fell into disrepair. Charleston Travel Guide. There's a gallery devoted to natural history, a Civil War exhibition, a historic textiles gallery, and the interactive "Kidstory" area. The smaller of the two barrier islands on the Mount Pleasant side. Explore Charleston's Historic Hidden Gardens. These Gullah artisanshave been weaving baskets for centuries this craft originated in West Africa and has been passed down through the generations using local materials, such as sweetgrass and palmetto leaves. Social media listings are your best tool for finding local oyster roasts, but you'll need to purchase tickets in advance for the Preservation Society of Charleston's Fall Tours. 843-724-7311. Mount Pleasant. The property also boasts a full-service restaurant serving seasonal Lowcountry fare for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Mount Pleasant's historic Old Village has been the spot for many Charleston filming locations, and is well worth a visit.. There's a large shopping center, Towne Center, for last minute souvenir shopping, and Mount Pleasant offers bridge access to both Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms. This attractionsguide was updatedby Lauren Mowery, a Charleston resident and travel expert, in collaborationwithU.S. News & World Report editors. That sordid portion of our history did occur elsewhere in our city in private auctions, near the Exchange Building, and in the actual slave market, and you can learn more about it at the Old Slave Mart Museum. You'll also find a bevy of vacation rental properties here a worthy alternative if you want a little more seclusion than some of downtown Charleston's hotels and bed-and-breakfasts can provide. Your Charleston Visitors Guide is on its way! Accompanied by a knowledgeable, local guide, pass by 100 of Charleston's most iconic sights of the past and present whilst listening to amazing tales and anecdotes . It operated mainly as a cotton plantation until the last crop was planted in 1922. Other must-visits include the centuries-old Angel Oak tree and Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, both year-round activities. If you're willing to drive over the Ravenel Bridge to Mount Pleasant or the Ashley River Bridge to West Ashley, you can get some great deals on hotels. Afterwards, grab one of the swings just behind the fountain and let them dry off. South of Broad, the area below Broad Street, is where you'll find The Battery; Harleston Village is mostly filled with locals and College of Charleston students who frequent Colonial Lake. Many travelers say you can't leave Charleston without strolling this historic seawall along the city's southern tip, which they call both beautiful and what makes Charleston special. Cozy robes, breezy dressers, and even options for kids are available inside the two-story shop. One of the best ways to learn about its history (and its ghosts) and the significance of its best-known landmarks is on awalking tour. Where to the Locals Eat in Charleston SC? Access Your Favorites from any Device and Get Suggestions for Upcoming Events. *We will not sell or give away your personal information. Go in with an open wallet and you'll leave feeling seriously stylish; Carolina Herrera, Mansur Gavriel, and Golden Goose are just some of the familiar brands stocked at Hampden. Visit Fort Sumter where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visit Historic Charleston SC (2023) Charleston Visitors Guide King Street is known as the shopping Mecca of Charlestonwith stores ranging from local companies like Old Whaling Company, Berlins, and Beau & Ro to name brands like YETI, J.Crew, and Brooks Brothers. The Hunley Museum is dedicated to the restoration of the first submarine shot down in the Civil War. It is said to be the largest live oak east of the Mississippi. Ready to revel in the sweeping views of the Holy City with a specialty cocktail in hand? Choose from guided tours through private homes, self-guided strolls through Charleston's most beautiful gardens, or walking tours down the historic streets. Kids, 3-12 are $27.95. The property has been restored to reflect its original form, and visitors can tour the McLeod family home as well as the slaves' living quarters. ", U.S. News Insider Tip: Historically, Charleston's famous azaleas blossom in late March to early April. If you've had your fill of Rainbow Row and the Charleston City Market, take a break for lunch or dinner at the city's nearby beaches, whether north over the cable-stayed Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge to Sullivan's Island or south to Folly Beach. Charles Alston, a wealthy Lowcountry rice planter, acquired the home and updated its architecture in Greek Revival style. If you choose to explore by foot, you can head to the area on your own or sign up for a Charleston walking tour that includes a stop at these colorful structures. Lauren Mowery, Contributor, Travel. The gorgeous tree is 65 feet high, with a circumference of 25.5 feet. Each has its individual charms, so check out all 3. >> Explore more great things to do with kids in Charleston SC! Choose from a menu of Charleston's best historic inns, beachside resorts, hotels, beach rentals and more. During the day, these areas tend to be fine, but always use your best judgement. best East Coast islands for family vacations. Pleasant and Seabrook Island): fish and chips, Husk (downtown): the menu rotates seasonally since all of the ingredients are locally sourced, Fuel (downtown): braised pork tacos, fried plantains | Read my review of Fuel Restaurant in Charleston SC, Poe's (Sullivans Island): blue cheese coleslaw, any of their burgers. And, North Charleston isn't just north of the peninsula. You can explore downtown Charleston yourself, but you may miss out on some important facts, architectural tidbits, and historical insight, the kind youll find on a guided tour. The Ultimate 3-Day Charleston Guide The Blonde Abroad Built in 1755, this mansion was once the home of Arthur Middleton, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. ), and get ready to feel like a local with these Charleston travel tips. Thank You! What Area of Charleston is Best to Stay in? After watching the orientation video, guests can opt for a 45-minute audio tour at no additional cost that helps explain the role enslaved people played on the plantation. A 20-plus-year Charleston veteran, FIG continues to fill its tables with both regulars as well as those hoping to get their first taste of Chef Mike Latas fresh fish entrees and seasonal dishes. Find your happy plate at one of more than 220 barbecue restaurants across the state. Most locals prefer Sullivan's Island, with its access to a variety of restaurants and bars just a few blocks back from the beachfront, while the neighboring Isle of Palms is ideal for families). The Planters Inn also has the BEST coconut cake ever! With its centuries-old mansions and cobblestone streets, Charleston is a living museum. The best part? Despite its aesthetic appeal, the plantation has a deep-rooted history in slavery. Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, is located in the middle of the Charleston harbor. There are also several neighboring beach communities that are worth a visit, such as Folly Beach, Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms. I was born here, and other than an eight-year-gap when I lived elsewhere in South Carolina, I've called Charleston my home my entire life. Fort Sumter can only be accessed by boat, but Fort Moultrie is a quick visit after a day exploring Sullivan's Island. The . 2023 Charleston Visitors Guide. I'd also recommend a pedicab, but know that due to ridiculous local laws, the pedicab drivers cannot, under any circumstances, give you anything resembling a tour as this violates the Charleston tour guide association rules. Cannonborough/Elliotborough is alight with creativity and delicious treats; pick up a cupcake from Sugar Bakeshop while walking along Cannon Street. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. For an intimate experience, Boatsetter, a mobile app for on-demand boat rentals, lets you book a slew of options whether skippered or bareboat sailboats, fishing boats or catamarans. Founded in 1977 by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Gian Carlo Menotti, Charleston's annual Spoleto Festival USA showcases music, theater, dance and opera performances. Unlike the Aiken-Rhett House, parts of the Nathaniel Russell House Museum has undergone architectural and interior restoration. To see a more complete directory of available walking tours,check out our list of the Best Charleston Walking Tours. Whether you're a longtime resident or returning visitor, Charleston.com is here to help you find the best places to eat, the perfect place to stay, and the most fun things to do while you're in town. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Lucky for you, you've got a local as your Charleston SC tour guide to share the real tips on where to . Cruise insurance can protect your investment in the event of cancellations, delays, lost luggage and more. Along with the casual beachfront bars and eateries, you'll also find a few hotels near the shore, as well as restrooms and foot showers for cleaning off sandy toes. Cypress Gardens: 25 minutes north of Charleston, you'll find 170 acres of preserved green space. South Carolina Aquarium Logistics. If you're into shopping, King Street will be your best friend. Here you'll find the famous Angel Oak tree and several golf courses, both private and public. In Charleston's scorching summer months, visitors (especially children) can be found cooling off in the shallow water of the fountain. The 10 Best Charleston Walking Tours - U.S. News Travel . They said American history buffs will love seeing the warships, submarines and aircraft, and many highly recommended taking the captain's tour aboard the USS Yorktown for a more in-depth experience. Lauren Mowery, Contributor, Travel. They can be found alongside books from Charleston authors and other unique items that make memorable gifts for loved ones or tokens for yourself.
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