Charleston Travel Guide on Rhyme & Reason

Charleston

I feel so lucky every single day when I wake up because I get to call Charleston home! There aren’t enough words to describe how magical Charleston is because it is truly one of a kind. The Holy City has so much to offer from its restaurants to its beaches to its history. There is no shortage of things to do in Charleston or creative people making things happen in Charleston! One of my most favorite activities to do in Charleston is going on walks and bike rides around the different historic neighborhoods while looking at the colorful homes and imagining who lives inside them, past and present. It’s hard to pick a favorite neighborhood between South of Broad, the French Quarter, and Ansonborough. I recommend Charleston for every type of trip including a romantic escape, a couples trip, a girls’ getaway, a mother daughter weekend, and a family trip! I love answering questions about Charleston so always feel free to shoot me an email with questions!

Charleston Travel Guide on Rhyme & Reason
Charleston Travel Guide on Rhyme & Reason
Charleston Travel Guide on Rhyme & Reason
Charleston Travel Guide on Rhyme & Reason

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  • Shop
  • Eat
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Shop

  • Shop

    Hampden

    Hampden is my absolute favorite boutique in Charleston and one of my favorite boutiques in general. Hampden carries lines including Loeffler Randall, Tibi, Zimmerman, and more. The girls who work there are dolls too!
  • Shop

    Small by Hampden

    Hampden is by far my favorite clothing boutique in Charleston so I was thrilled when the owner, Stacey, expanded with a new store on King Street. Small by Hampden is a concept store a few doors down on King Street in Charleston that houses some of their more casual designers (aka my favorites!) like Ulla Johnson, Rhode Resort, SEA, Staud, and Ganni.
  • Shop

    Amanda Lindroth

    Amanda Lindroth opened in Charleston in the spring of 2019 on Upper King to lots of fanfare. The store itself is absolutely stunning! It is designed in a custom tent (within the storefront) so you immediately feel as though you’ve been transported to your favorite Caribbean island. Everything Amanda Lindroth designs is fabulous. Think rattan everything and beautiful entertaining essentials like block print linens!
  • Shop

    Lake Pajamas

    Lake Pajamas caused quite a splash when they opened their doors in December 2018. The store is filled with all the beautiful, comfortable, soft pajama styles Lake has come to be known for. Also, the shop carries a few of their other favorite brands like RMS Beauty. The Lake Pajamas store is so special because it is their flagship store and currently their only brick and mortar. It was designed by Charleston’s own, Olivia Brock, making it even more magical.
  • Shop

    Beckett Boutique

    A fabulous boutique filled with amazing lines like Elizabeth & James, Holst & lee, Viktoria & Woods, and Rebecca Taylor. I always find a beautiful fun new piece when I pop in!
  • Shop

    Beau & Ro

    Beau & Ro opened its first-ever brick and mortar store in the fall of 2019 in none other than Charleston! They make beautiful handbags and jewelry that I simply can’t get enough of. I wear my Beau & Ro rattan earrings non-stop and love my straw bags from the playful yet well-defined brand! The store also carries a curated selection of other designers and brands like Assoline, Lele Sadoughi, and more!
  • Shop

    Roller Rabbit

    Roller Rabbit opened it’s doors in Charleston in the fall of 2019 to many happy Charlestonians! The brand actually used to have a store in Charleston a few years ago but the location was closed when the brand went through some restructuring. So, we were all thrilled to see it open it’s doors again, this time on lower King Street. You’ll find tons of swoon-worthy pieces from baby clothes to beach cover-ups to bedding.
  • Shop

    Skinny Dip

    A collective store filled with a mix of well-curated mini boutiques. You'll find clothing, accessories, decor, Charleston items, and more. Plus, there is a frozé bar upstairs!
  • Shop

    Candlefish

    Simply put, this is the best candle store I've ever been to. It's impossible to walk in and not buy a candle! They do super fun candle making classes also!
  • Shop

    Mac & Murphy

    A marvelous little card store! They have a card for every occasion whether it be happy, sad, funny, or just because. They also do beautiful specialized paper and stationery.
  • Shop

    Candy Shop Vintage

    A small space full of lots of beautiful jewelry, art, clothes, and trinkets. This shop is a Charleston treasure!
  • Shop

    Vieuxtemps

    A beautiful gifts store and the single best place to go for wedding registries and monogramming in Charleston.
  • Shop

    Croghan’s Jewel Box

    At over 100 years old, Croghan’s Jewel Box is Charleston’s oldest family owned jewelry store. You’ll find beautiful estate and antique treasures as well as modern pieces and Charleston’s own Goldbug Collection.
  • Shop

    Blue Bicycle Books

    Blue Bicycle Books has been selling books in Charleston since 1995. It is a truly wonderful local bookstore that is much larger than meets the eye. All of their books are so well curated and organized and the staff always has great recommendations. They also source vintage books about Charleston and the Lowcountry! Blue Bicycle does so much for the literary community of Charleston by bringing tons of authors and events to town. Pop in for a book!
  • Shop

    Cannonborough Collective

    Situated on Cannon, right in the middle of other creative store owners (i.e. Candy Shop Vintage and Mac & Murphy), the Cannonborough Collective sells a collection of locally sources and made products like Charleston Weekender Turkish towels. It’s a bright, colorful, and happy shop!
  • Shop

    Buxton Books

    Buxton Books is Charleston’s other local bookstore! It is connected to the beautiful Charleston library downtown so this bookstore also is very influential in the literary community of Charleston. They also do incredible author events around town in partnership with the library. It’s incredible to have two wonderful and thriving local bookstores to shop at!
  • Shop

    Madison Matthews

    If you love whimsical little beach cover-ups and striped button-downs then you’ll love visiting the brick and mortar shop of southern designer Madison Matthews.
  • Shop

    Old Whaling Co.

    Old Whaling Co. opened the doors of its Broad Street store in 2019. The light-filled space is full of the brand’s bath and body products all inspired by the sea! Ole Whaling Co. has a dozen or so signature scents that they infuse into their beautifully crafted, effective, and affordable soaps, bath bombs, body butters, perfumes, salt scrubs, and candles. Everything is delicious + the items make wonderful gifts!
  • Shop

    Shirtini

    This shop is just what it sounds like... a shop specializing in shirts. They specialize in classic white button-downs for women but have a few pops of color in the store too.
  • Shop

    Acquisitions

    A beautiful and classic interior design store full of gorgeous furniture, decor, and more lifestyle pieces.
  • Shop

    Celadon

    Another fabulous home store with gorgeous furniture + pillows and other great accessories.
  • Shop

    Indigo Market

    This is one of Charleston's cutest home stores. The shop is very well curated with a mix of of-the-moment trend pieces, little antiques, and great Palm Beach-esque pieces of furniture (think bamboo chairs).
  • Shop

    Indigo & Cotton

    A wonderful shop for guys. Their button-downs are perfection. I find myself wanting to buy them for all Edwin!
  • Shop

    Palm Avenue

    The go-to shop in Charleston for Lilly Pulitzer. I always find current Lilly dresses and tops here.
  • Shop

    Chains on King Street

    J.Crew, Kate Spade, Madewell, Anthropologie, Goorin Bros

Eat

  • Eat

    167 Raw

    Golly, the lobster rolls are amazing! The seafood here is so fresh and everything on the menu is perfection! I love the guacamole, the poke, the oysters, the tacos, the tuna burger, and the lobster roll. It's my single favorite Charleston restaurant!
  • Eat

    Leon's Oyster Shop

    Dine at Leon's for the atmosphere and the best hushpuppies and fried chicken in town. I also love the siam salad and oysters!
  • Eat

    Xiao Boa Biscuit

    Take a break from Southern food at XBB for creative Asian comfort food. One of our favorite restaurants!
  • Eat

    The Ordinary

    Go here if you're a big seafood + oyster eater! The atmosphere is amazing as the building used to be a bank and the rice pudding dessert is one of my favorite sweets ever.
  • Eat

    FIG

    Locally sourced food that will give you the perfect taste of the Lowcountry. This is one of Charleston's hardest reservations to get for good reason! It is an award-winning restaurant for its food as well as its wine. Everything at FIG is out of this world delicious! It’s a special spot.
  • Eat

    Melfi's

    Charleston restauranteur, Brooks Reitz’s, newest edition to the local food scene is a homerun. Melfi’s has the feel of a classic Italian joint with fresh pasta, delicious salads, large plates, and Roman-style thin pizza. I absolutely love the Stretch Armstrong pizza!
  • Eat

    Little Jack’s Tavern

    Little Jack’s Tavern has my favorite burger in town! I also absolutely die for their roast chicken. We love Little Jack’s tavern year round but we gravitate toward the restaurant a ton in the fall and the winter because it’s one of the best spots to hunker down on a chilly day. You’ll see what I mean the minute you walk in – think old school, upscale, refined diner.
  • Eat

    The Macintosh

    A knockout restaurant. The menu is inspired and housemade cocktail are delicious. Great for dinner but also don't miss their Sunday brunch!
  • Eat

    R Kitchen

    Every single night the menu changes so you are always in for a surprise! Each night the menu is a seasonal 5-course menu that foodies will die over. The best part is that it's not a stuffy, snooty preset menu and the price is unbeatable!
  • Eat

    Purlieu

    Purlieu is one of my favorite restaurants for date nights and girls’ nights out alike. The menu is a blend of Lowcountry cooking and traditional European cooking. I absolutely cannot get enough of the gnocchi!
  • Eat

    Basic Kitchen

    This light, bright, and airy spot serves up delicious healthy (but hearty!) food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring the best local and seasonal produce and ingredients. I also happen to think their juices and cocktails are some of the best in town! You’ll leave feeling satiated and refreshed. Don’t miss the chance to dine on their adorable garden patio on a beautiful day too!
  • Eat

    Trattoria Lucca

    Nestled in the Cannonborough/Elliotborough neighborhood of Charleston... It's one of my favorite Italian restaurants in town. The menu changes daily/seasonally but they always serve the warm cauliflower sformatino appetizer. It will rock your world!
  • Eat

    The Peninsula Grill

    The Peninsula Grill is old Charleston! My favorite time of year to dine here is during the holidays because it’s a dressier spot. The Peninsula Grill was made famous by its coconut cake, which is absolutely divine! It’s worth a visit just for dessert if you have too many other restaurants in town you want to try.
  • Eat

    The Obstinate Daughter

    I simply love this restaurant on nearby Sullivan's Island. The geechie fries are a must along with the shrimp po'boy or any of the pizzas. Plus, they have an ice cream shop too!
  • Eat

    The Darling Oyster Bar

    I love this restaurant for it's fresh seafood and oysters. The tiled floor, large bar, exposed brick walls, and pops of green make for great decor vibes too.
  • Eat

    One Broad Street

    Opened in an old refurbished bank, One Broad Street is a neighborhood favorite among locals. It’s situated in the perfect location to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner before exploring Rainbow Row and the South of Broad neighborhood. The menu is just as vibrant as the locals passing through!
  • Eat

    Baker's Bar

    The day Baker’s Bar opened, it instantly became one of our neighborhood favorites. It is located in the basement of the restaurant One Broad so it has an über cozy atmosphere. To me, it feels like a restaurant that could be nestled in the West Village of New York. The menu consists of pizza and other Italian dishes. We always love the seasonal pizzas and the no cell phone policy.
  • Eat

    Malagón

    Malagón is a delicious ode to Spain! Everything is Spanish from the menu to the wine list to the retail. Take my advice and order the ‘La Bomba’ it is out of this world! At dinnertime, Malagón is buzzing with dinners making for a very lively atmosphere. I love the dinnertime vibe but also really enjoy Malagón during the day for lunch Tuesday – Friday for a more quiet setting. Also, don’t miss weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays! I would classify Malagón as a foodie Spanish experience!
  • Eat

    Husk

    The year Husk opened, it was named the best new restaurant in America. Since then, it has been a Charleston hot spot. Make a reservation well in advance if you want to snag a coveted table here. While Sean Brock is no longer involved, it is still a definitely worth a visit. The atmosphere is one of my favorite parts as it’s in a beautiful old house. Be sure to pay a visit next door to its bar too!
  • Eat

    Sorghum & Salt

    This is one of my favorite spots to go when I want to order a bunch of items to share. The menu is a collection of farm- and sea-driven small plates that is constantly changing based on the season. I like the cozy, casual atmosphere too!
  • Eat

    Le Farfalle

    With so many delicious Italian restaurants in town, it can be hard to pick a favorite but Le Farfalle should definitely be on your list. It has an upscale vibe and a delicious selection of appetizers, vegetables, pastas, and mains. The space is big so it’s a great spot to consider going with a larger group.
  • Eat

    Fulton Five

    The perfect, yummy, romantic Italian spot for date night or a nice meal out with your parents.
  • Eat

    Stella's

    Stella's is Charleston's best Greek food restaurant. It has a great menu for sharing and a really nice patio to dine on. Their Sunday brunch is a fan favorite too!
  • Eat

    Minero

    The best place in Charleston to cure your Mexican food craving. They have great chips and guac!
  • Eat

    Tu

    Tu is a delicious Indian food restaurant with an über cool minimalist atmosphere. We go here when we need an Indian fix!
  • Eat

    Wild Common

    Wild Common is located in the restaurant portion of what was previously Cannon Green (Cannon Green is still open but exclusively as an event space now). It opened in the summer of 2019 with a very unique menu. Wild Common is really a culinary experience of fine dining with custom tasting, a la carte, and small bites menus. The atmosphere is quirky and full of character too. It’s a great place to go for a special occasion or for a foodie adventure.
  • Eat

    Maison

    Maison is a cute little foodie French bistro. I say foodie because the menu has a lot of French favorites on it but many are prepared with a special touch or in a unique and creative way. Every meal I’ve had here has been really delicious and satisfying! When I crave French food, this is one of my go-tos.
  • Eat

    Delaney Oyster House

    Delaney Oyster House is a must for seafood lovers. It prides itself on its premium seafood and oysters, which I think is what coastal South Carolina southern cuisine is all about. It is located within a quintessential historic Charleston home so guests can dine inside for a dining room setting or outside on the side porches during a beautiful day. If you come to Charleston with the intension of hitting every oyster shop, then add this restaurant to your list.
  • Eat

    Estadio

    Estadio opened in the fall of 2019, giving downtown Charleston her second Spanish restaurant opening of the year (the first was Malagón, see above). However, I’d classify Estadio and Malagón differently. Estadio is a modern take on traditional Spanish food but you can expect to find all the classic Spanish dishes you know and love. We seriously love the croquettes here!
  • Eat

    Lewis Barbecue

    The single best place to go for bbq in the Charleston area. If you consider yourself a bbq lover then a trip to Charleston isn’t complete without stopping here for a bite.
  • Eat

    Renzo

    Known for their Neo-Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas and selection of natural wines, Renzo has established itself as an Italian favorite in Charleston since opening in spring 2018. The menu often changes but is always delicious! The caesar salad is unreal too!
  • Eat

    Chubby Fish

    Chubby Fish gives Charleston a fresh and inspired spin on classic seafood dishes with their local and sustainable seafood menu. The nautical décor is easily some of my favorite in town and the oysters are incredible!
  • Eat

    Poogan's Porch

    The restaurant occupies an old house so it is charming from start to finish. I love the biscuits here too!
  • Eat

    Oak Steakhouse

    The premier steakhouse in Charleston. Everything here is fabulously done.
  • Eat

    Halls Chophouse

    I love dinner here - they stay open late! - but I also love Sunday brunch here as they have Gospel singers perform. The live music at dinner will not disappoint either!
  • Eat

    Goat Sheep Cow North

    Goat Sheep Cow has been a favorite of my family's for forever. Their original location is located in the South of Broad neighborhood so it has always been a little local gem of a cheese shop. At the Goat Sheep Cow North location, you can enjoy all the delicious wine, cheese, charcuterie, and more in their big plush booths or on their adorable little outside patio. It’s one of my favorite places to go for happy hour in the city.
  • Eat

    Callie's Hot Little Biscuits

    This place does biscuits and they don't mess around! They are open during the day and open late night for those out enjoying a cocktail or two.
  • Eat

    The Park Café

    My favorite meal at Park Cafe is breakfast. The light and airy space has amazing avocado toast and a delicious breakfast sandwich.
  • Eat

    Daps

    Daps established a bit of a cult following in Charleston since opening its doors. The friendly neighborhood spot serves breakfast all day along with delicious daytime-approved cocktails. Ask any local and they will tell you that the shining star on the menu is the chickpea breakfast sandwich.
  • Eat

    Butcher & Bee

    One of my favorite all-around restaurants in Charleston. Every meal of the day is amazing here and I love the healthy options on the menu (their menu is all locally sourced).
  • Eat

    Harken Café

    See more under the "Sip" section.
  • Eat

    The Daily

    See more under the "Sip" section.
  • Eat

    The Harbinger Café

    See more under the "Sip" section.
  • Eat

    Caviar & Bananas

    Gourmet market and café style stop with great grab and go options.
  • Eat

    Huriyali

    The yummiest healthy café for smoothies, juices, bowls, salads, and sandwiches. I love their smoothie bowls!
  • Eat

    Sugar Bakeshop

    A neighborhood bakeshop with sweets and treats that are just as good as your grandma's famous recipes.
  • Eat

    Off Track Ice Cream

    As soon as Off Track Ice Cream opened in Charleston, it immediately became my favorite ice cream shop in town. They make all of their ice cream from scratch using a few simple ingredients (local when possible!). Their vegan ice cream is honestly just as delicious as their regular ice cream too. The flavors are out of this world and so creative with seasonal flavors always coming out! The key lime pie flavor will blow your mind.

Drink

  • Drink

    Citrus Club

    Obsessed would be an understatement! This rooftop bar at The Dewberry Hotel is so well done with minimal but super chic kind of retro vibes and amazing cocktails. The waiters all wear adorable uniforms, which is a little special touch I love. The views from the outdoor seating area are some of the absolute best in town!
  • Drink

    Cocktail Club

    A wonderful little bar that is half indoors and half outdoors. Go on Sunday nights for half priced bottles of wine and live music.
  • Drink

    Bin 152

    Charleston local's go-to wine and cheese bar. It's a great place to unwind after a full day. The minimalist French vibe here is spot on!
  • Drink

    The Gin Joint

    A cozy, intimate place to grab a drink. Their cocktails are always changing & ever interesting! You can also create your own cocktail based on your favorite adjectives.
  • Drink

    Vintage Lounge

    A swanky old school vibe wine bar. It's the perfect place to spend an evening with girlfriends nestled into the plush booths. We love going out here!
  • Drink

    Graft

    At Graft, the walls are lined with different wines to choose from to enjoy right there in the bar. It might sound like it would be hard to pick a bottle but the two sommeliers (aka long-time friends) behind Graft created their own honest, relatable, and often funny tags for the bottles they sell. So, it’s a blast selecting a bottle to enjoy! Graft also has a menu of wines by the glass!
  • Drink

    The Bar at Husk

    Located in the small building next to its big sister Restaurant Husk, the Bar at Husk is a must-stop place to drink in Charleston. The cocktail menu is full of interesting & lovely libations. We really love the cozy atmosphere here and love the small food menu as well! It’s a great spot for a drink before or after dinner.
  • Drink

    Camellias

    If you're in the mood for bubbles, then Camellias is the place to go! The whole bar is pink, like the flower it's named for, but that's not the only way it sets itself apart... it is Charleston's premier Champagne Bar (there is a full bar menu too!).
  • Drink

    The Belmont

    Located on upper King Street, the Belmont is one of my favorite bars to go to for a relaxed (yet delicious) cocktail with friends. You won't find a pretentious vibe here and you'll actually be able to hear the friends you are chatting with (unlike many bars).
  • Drink

    Stars Rooftop

    A rooftop bar with great specialty cocktails and 360 degree views of Charleston.
  • Drink

    Warehouse

    An industrial-chic neighborhood bar with craft cocktails and elevated bar food. A great weekend spot.
  • Drink

    Container Bar

    The Container Bar is inside of an old auto body shop and three reconstructed shipping containers and hosts five rotating bars and food trucks. With a focus on locally grown, fresh ingredients, it’s a wonderful new addition to Charleston.
  • Drink

    Bangkok Lounge

    There is nothing chic about Bangkok Lounge but it is a whole ton of fun! Bangkok Lounge is a dive-y karaoke bar on King Street that is a really fun spot to go when you are in a party mood. On the weekends, there can be quite a line so be prepared to get there early if you want to get in and sing. It’s important to note though that you can sing karaoke at Bangkok Lounge 7 nights a week!
  • Drink

    Babas on Cannon

    This “old world café” opened in Charleston in fall 2018 and quickly became the best new place to sip coffee in the morning, nibble breakfast and lunch during the day, and sip wine in the evening. I love the bustling evening scene!
  • Drink

    Coquin The Petite Café & Bar

    Coquin is a charming little coffee shop meets café meets bar that opened in Charleston in the fall of 2019! When you step into Coquin, you embrace the art of the Parisian Lifestyle. Coquin serves up bites all day long including pastries in the morning, sandwiches in the afternoon, and charcuterie + more when the sun goes down. Similarly, you can grab a specialty coffee during the day and switch to a yummy wine or martini at night. It’s a wonderful all day experience!
  • Drink

    Harken Café

    The minute Harken Café opened, it became an instant classic! Harken was opened in the fall of 2019 by the owners of another CHS cult favorite, The Harbinger (I say cult favorite because The Harbinger really has a cult following!). Harken is a neighborhood coffee shop filled with character, delicious food + drink, and a warm atmosphere (I always see a familiar face). I’d recommend Harken to anyone visiting Charleston! Menu must-haves: avocado toast, daily slab pie, daily baguette sandwich, and the ever-changing mind-blowing baked goods.
  • Drink

    The Harbinger Café

    Handcrafted, health-conscious breakfast and lunch + coffee. The atmosphere will make you feel right at home and the cookies are out of this world. Pro tip: try the 'Best Friend' cookie!
  • Drink

    The Daily

    Coffee lovers will be right at home here! They also have yummy smoothies and great little bites that everyone will love like avocado toast, tasty bowls, breakfast burritos, and more. It's a perfect coffee + breakfast or lunch destination.
  • Drink

    Second State

    Formally known as Black Tap Coffee, go here for flavored lattes (the lavender and honey are musts!) and to set up shop to get a little reading or work done on your laptop.
  • Drink

    Sightsee

    Sightsee is a light and airy little neighborhood coffee shop in the Elliotborough neighborhood downtown. You’ll find a selection of specialty coffee, espresso, and tea. In addition to coffee, there is a cute retail shop at Sightsee.
  • Drink

    La Pâtisserie

    La Pâtisserie is a happy, charming little coffee shop. You’ll find a full coffee bar, sweet and savory pastries, artisanal sandwiches, handcrafted pastries, and sweet treats like macarons.

Stay

  • Stay

    Zero George

    An absolutely charming historic boutique hotel! The vibe is traditional yet contemporary and will leave you inspired at every turn. It's composed of five historical residential buildings that all have a porch or a patio. Plus, the in-house restaurant is outstanding and they offer amazing cooking classes! If that isn't enough, they serve guests complimentary wine and cheese every evening. Did I mention they have bikes!? I'm in love with this hotel!
  • Stay

    86 Cannon

    Adore, adore, adore! I absolutely put this boutique hotel on the top end of my favorite places to stay in Charleston. The Inn is owned by a husband and wife who used their vision to purchase an old Charleston house and turn it into a luxury 5-bedroom B&B. There are three common spaces – a library, a bar, and a dining room - as well as two long porches, ample parking spaces, and complimentary bikes available to guests too. They also serve a light breakfast as well as cocktails at happy hour. You can just book one room or you can book out the whole house. 86 Cannon truly offers everything!
  • Stay

    The Dewberry

    A gorgeous luxury hotel that, I think, has a very New York City meets Charleston feel. Expect old-world charm with a modern edge. The hotel's bar, Living Room, and restaurant, Henrietta's, are both fabulous spots in the city and musts, especially if you're staying in the hotel. In addition, the rooftop bar, Citrus Club, is by far the best rooftop bar in the city! The Garden & Gun boutique is nestled in the hotel as well!
  • Stay

    Belmond Charleston Place

    The most all-encompassing hotel in Charleston thanks to its great bar, full-scale spa, and rooftop pool. You can never go wrong with staying here + the location is unbeatable!
  • Stay

    The Inns

    The Inns consist of a few different historic old homes that have been renovated and revitalized to create an authentic and upscale low-country vacation home experience! I can tell you that the mattresses are Heavenly and all the details like the beautiful huge side porches are perfection. This is a great option is you are traveling with your family, a group of friends, a few couples, or a bachelorette as you can book a whole house!
  • Stay

    The Restoration Hotel

    A hotel situated right on King Street that oozes with Southern Charm but also has rooms and suites that feel like they could be your friend's apartment. Be sure to check out the rooftop bar, The Watch.
  • Stay

    The Spectator Hotel

    A luxurious hotel where old meets new. You'll want to cozy up in the bar all evening. The Spectator has a great location too as it is right by the old city markets.
  • Stay

    The Governor's House Inn

    This bed and breakfast is the former house of the youngest signer of the Declaration. The house oozes with character and has a wonderful porch for guest to relax on.

Do

  • Do

    Carriage Tour

    A great way to see Charleston is on a carriage tour. I recommend doing a carriage tour on your first day in Charleston to help you get a lay of the land, learn some of the history of the city, and see beautiful parts of town you might have missed otherwise. My carriage tour guide company of choice is Palmetto Carriage Tours.
  • Do

    Historical Home Tours

    The historic homes of the city make Charleston really special! There are a handful but my favorites are the Edmondston-Alston House, the Calhoun Mansion, and the Nathaniel Russell House. All of which are tucked into the South of Broad neighborhood.
  • Do

    Historic Plantation Tours

    The Charleston area boasts a handful of historical, sprawling old plantations. The must-see plantations to visit for history tours and garden wanderings are Boone Hall Plantation, Magnolia Plantation, and Middleton Place.
  • Do

    South of Broad

    Walk through historic downtown Charleston to take in the gorgeous and unique architecture of The Holy City as well of some of the most Instagram-worthy houses you've ever seen.
  • Do

    Hampton Park

    While I never get tired of walking around all the picturesque neighborhoods of Charleston, if you want a change of scenery, the perfect place to go for a walk or a picnic is Hampden Park. It is 60 acres big and always has something new in season blooming.
  • Do

    Sailing

    My parents found Captain Paul of Charleston Sail years ago and we still love and use them to this day. Paul and his wife own the boat and take you out on marvelous little sailing trips. We always bring wine and some snacks! It’s the perfect way to see Charleston from the water and enjoy a beautiful day.
  • Do

    The Gibbes Museum of Art

    One of my favorite ways to spend a leisurely afternoon is wandering around The Gibbes Museum of Art admiring the exhibitions and the architecture of the building itself. It is one of the best museums in the South!
  • Do

    Candle Making Class

    If you want an activity that will leave you with a token to take home from Charleston, then I recommend a candle making class! It is such a fun way to spend two hours, you will learn so much, and it's BYOB!
  • Do

    Ravenel Bridge

    A 6-mile walk back and forth on the walking/biking path on the side of the bridge is a great way to get a little exercise outdoors and to walk off some of the amazing food you’ve been eating! The views are pretty gorgeous too!
  • Do

    Beach Day

    If you are planning a trip to Charleston in the spring or summer, then I highly recommend adding a beach day to your vacation. All the beaches are within easy driving distance with Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island (my favorite!) being the two closest. In my opinion, the windblown seagrass makes our southern beaches some of the prettiest in the county!
  • Do

    The Water Room

    The Water Room is as beautiful as it is zen as it is clean. It is Charleston’s best clean nail salon! The Water Room uses only nontoxic, clean beauty products, and offers chemical-free treatments. I’m in love with the space and I really can’t get enough of the selection of 8 free, cruelty free, vegan, nontoxic polishes (they are all beautiful colors)! There is also a room that can be closed off for private parties. The Water Room opened its doors in January 2019 and has become a beloved part of our beauty + wellness scene. Every time I go, I leave happier than when I walked in!
  • Do

    Walk & Talk Tours

    Walk & Talk Tours technically launched in 2018 but I didn’t become aware of the incredible tour company until 2019 so I’m including it in this post! Plus, Walk & Talk launched a new facet of business in 2019… “Full Hot Tours,” which is a bar hop/bachelorette style tour. Tyler, who runs the tours, has an incredible wealth of knowledge about Charleston, a fantastic sense of humor, and a love and admiration for the Holy City that really shines through on her tours. I particularly love Tyler’s walking tours of Charleston so much because, instead of spitting out fact after fact, she does a wonderful job of storytelling. On a Walk and Talk tour, you’ll explore some of Charleston’s most beautiful streets while learning about the city’s rich history and historical gossip.
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    Charleston Farmer's Market

    The Charleston farmer’s market is located right in the heart of town in Marion square. It runs on Saturday mornings from April to December every year. We love going to wander the stalls, pick up local produce, and enjoy a yummy food truck meal.
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