Every time I have to leave Charleston, SC I go kicking and screaming. The town is one of the most charming and beautiful places I’ve ever been. It is rich with history and full of to-die-for food. Trust me, Charleston’s ocean setting and can’t-stop-till-you-drop shopping make Charleston a top travel destination.
With my sister’s help, she’s a local, I put together a little guide for doing Charleston right. Dig your teeth in!
Things to Do in Charleston
Stay:
Charleston Place: A beautifully Southern hotel complete with a great bar, go-to shops, and a lovely spa. Can I check in now?
Zero George Street Boutique Hotel: Tradition meets the contemporary South at this inviting hotel. It’s composed of five restored historical residential buildings.
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Zero George Street Boutique Hotel |
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Zero George Street Boutique Hotel |
Do:
Walk along Rainbow Row and The Battery
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Rainbow Row |
Take a carriage ride
Peruse the historical City Market for straw sweet grass baskets
Browse the farmer’s market in Marion Square on Saturday mornings to enjoy breakfast & discover local artists.
Read more: 36 Hours in Charleston
Shop:
Hampden Clothing: for designers including A.L.C., Current/Elliott, Equipment, Jenni Kayne, Rag & Bone, & Tucker
Palm Avenue: for Lily Pulitzer
Acquisitions: for amazing home wear and furniture
Lily: for cards, stationary, jewelry, and beautiful trinkets
Eat:
The Macintosh: The menu changes with the season and never fails to impress for cocktails & dinner
Poogan’s Porch: A Breakfast, lunch, & dinner must – the shrimp & grits
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Poogan’s Porch |
Blossom: Go here for good ole’ Southern seafood
Husk: The pig ear lettuce wraps sound risky but they are to die for
Hall’s Chop House: Hall’s boasts a versatile menu but I always pick a steak when dining here
Hominy Grill: Oprah’s favorite restaurant in Charleston serves up delicious breakfast and lunch (Don’t miss the okra & shrimp beignets)
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Hominy Grill |
Drink:
The Cocktail Club: An diverse cocktail menu + regular live music = a great environment for gathering and drinking
Midtown: The inside bar, outdoor patio bar, pool table, and live music make for a laid back college bar
The Rooftop Bar at Vendue Inn: Go here for refreshing cocktails and one-of-a-kind views of the Charleston harbor
Wear:
When I was in Charleston last week I experienced typical Southern summer weather – warm & humid with afternoon showers. One day I worked with the weather by wearing this lightweight Anthropologie jumpsuit. The ikat jumpsuit packs great and has a feminine fit with the tie waist so it was the perfect choice (speaking of jumpsuits, I’m also currently coveting this Anthropologie romper for summer!).
I also embraced the city’s proximity to the water and sported this J.Crew floral anchor tee. Let’s be honest, I often throw a nautical twist into my dressing.
All in all, my sister and I agree that Charleston is the perfect city to travel to with girlfriends, with your family, or for a couple’s weekend. Xoxo travel bugs!
love love love!
Just went to Charleston for the first time this weekend and totally thought of you and this blog. You’re too cute! What an amazing place!!