Travel Guide: Charleston, SC
Anyone who knows me, knows I’m obsessed with Charleston! All it took was one trip with my mom a few summers ago, and I was instantly hooked. From the pastel-painted houses and exceptional seafood to the cobblestone streets and idyllic churches, I love everything about the Holy City. And my fondness for it only grows each time I return.
Since Sean had never been, I was dying to show him the place that so easily captured my heart. This past weekend, we made the 3-hour road trip from Charlotte for a little getaway. I had only ever visited in the summer, so I was excited to check out the hot spots in the off-season.
A trip to Charleston isn’t complete without wandering along King Street
Although mid-February was perfect weather-wise, Charleston is sure to charm you no matter the time of year you’re visiting. Here’s the scoop on where to eat, what to do, and everything in between, so you can make the most of your trip!
Where to Stay in Charleston
There are so many wonderful parts of Charleston—it can be hard to choose where to stay! Whether you’re coming for the food, the beach, or the iconic, colorful homes, there’s a neighborhood that’s just right for you. Depending on your preferences, I’d recommend staying in one of these areas when visiting Charleston:
Downtown: Ideal for first-time visitors because it’s close to all the action. Easily walk to the city’s best sites and restaurants and soak in its southern beauty.
Mount Pleasant/Sullivan’s Island: My personal favorite! Close to both downtown and Sullivan’s Island Beach, this family-friendly, residential town has it all.
Folly Beach: Not as close to downtown, but if a beach vacation is your main goal, Folly is for you! You’ll also find surf shops and eateries galore.
North Charleston: An up-and-coming area that’s hip and lively and close to the airport. Check out Park Circle, in particular!
John’s Island: The largest island in SC and the epitome of laid back. You’ll love being close to Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island.
Patio dining and boat watching on Shem Creek? I’m in!
Where to Eat & Drink in Charleston
Okay, now for my favorite part! Most of my trips revolve around food, and Charleston seriously delivers in the culinary department. From oysters, biscuits, and BBQ to fried green tomatoes and pickled okra, the southern cuisine is irresistible. Plus, the bar scene is versatile. You’ll find everything from upscale rooftops and trendy speakeasies to dive bars and beer gardens. Here are my favorite restaurants and bars in Charleston.
Best Restaurants in Charleston
Millers All Day: My top choice for breakfast! Friendly service, scrumptious food, and an ideal location for exploring King Street afterward.
Page’s Okra Grill: This Travel-Channel-featured joint serves mouth-watering cinnamon bun waffles and PBTs (pimiento cheese, bacon, & fried green tomatoes)—yum!
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit: A delightful pick-me-up after perusing the Charleston City Market. Try a sweet and a savory biscuit for the perfect mix.
Vicious Biscuit: Can you tell I’m a big breakfast fan? Any of the biscuit sandwiches here are delectable, and their jam bar is a tasty touch!
Husk: I don’t think a restaurant could be any prettier. Serving up brunch and dinner, anything you order here will be exquisite. Sit out on the porch if you can!
The Darling Oyster Bar: Some of the very best seafood I’ve ever had, from the mussels and oysters to the lobster roll and even the hush puppies!
Leon’s Oyster Shop: Adorable body-shop-turned-restaurant where your favorite southern comfort foods collide. I love the chicken sandwich!
Hank’s: This highly-rated seafood joint is worth the hype! The she-crab soup and seafood platters are to die for.
Home Team BBQ: I’m a sucker for a chopped brisket sandwich, and this one is finger-licking good!
The Obstinate Daughter: Specializing in wood-fired oven pizza, pasta, and more, this is a Sullivan’s Island staple. And the beach décor is a whole vibe.
Tantalizing oysters at The Darling Oyster Bar
Vicious Biscuit makes a mean breakfast sandwich
Best Bars & Rooftops in Charleston
Satellite Rooftop: Formerly known as Stars, this rooftop offers a beautiful view of church tops and King Street. Plus, their cocktails are killer.
Uptown Social: An upbeat, casual rooftop with live music. Especially great for a daytime outing or happy hour.
The Rooftop at The Vendue: Stunning views of the water and a lively atmosphere. I went here for my bachelorette party, and it was a hit!
The Cocktail Club: This upscale lounge specializes in—you guessed it—cocktails! It features a cute little rooftop terrace, as well.
Saltwater Cowboys: Located on Shem Creek, this casual joint serves up cheap drinks and fresh seafood with an elite view.
Red’s Ice House: Another Shem Creek must for a fun day or night out. Live music, overlooking the water—what could be better?
Can’t help but smile during happy hour at Satellite
Of course, there are a multitude of other amazing restaurants and bars in Charleston. While I haven’t personally been to the ones listed below, I’ve heard great things about them, as well:
Clam pizza at The Obstinate Daughter—unique & yummy!
Husk knows how to do southern-fried chicken
What to Do in Charleston
It probably comes as no surprise—there are endless gorgeous sites to see and exciting activities to do in Charleston. And the best part is that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a beach bum, a foodie, or a shopaholic! I could easily spend a whole week there and never tire of it.
Here are my favorite things to do and see in Charleston:
Rainbow Row: Probably the most famous Charleston site, these pastel-colored homes on E. Bay St. are a must-see. Step across the street for a great photo op!
Waterfront Park Pier: Overlooking the Cooper River, this pier is the perfect place for a scenic stroll. Or, sit back and relax in the oversized swings and try to catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming by!
Pineapple Fountain: Another well-known Charleston site, this adorable fountain is in Waterfront Park. Definitely stop to snap some pics here!
Charleston City Market: Open 7 days a week, you’ll find souvenirs of all sorts in this spacious market, which is one of the oldest in the country. Look for the sweetgrass baskets made by Gullah artisans!
Sullivan’s Island Beach: My favorite beach in Charleston! It’s easy to get to, clean, and family-friendly, and it has the cutest little town with shops and restaurants.
Shem Creek: I absolutely love exploring this gem of an area in Mount Pleasant. Check out any of the waterfront restaurants and the Shem Creek Boardwalk.
Folly Beach: About 11 miles from downtown, this beach is popular among younger crowds and families, boasting a huge fishing pier and lively restaurants.
King Street: Retailers of all kinds fill this vibrant and renowned street. If you’re looking to eat or shop, you’ll find endless options here! You’ll also find some of the best nightlife in Charleston on this street.
Old Slave Mart Museum: If you’re into history, take a trip to this museum—the last surviving slave auction gallery in SC. It’s a sobering and eye-opening experience for sure.
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon: One of the most prominent buildings in Charleston, a tour here deserves a spot on your itinerary. The dungeon is creepy but cool!
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens: Offering historic tours and picturesque gardens, you’ll want to add this to your list for a photo-worthy adventure!
Carriage Ride Tour: Quintessential Charleston! Ride through the most notable parts of the city and learn interesting facts from your tour guide.
Guided Walking Tour: If walking is more your speed, experience the unique culture of Charleston by foot. You’ll get to explore hidden alleyways and more!
Fort Sumter Tour: Hop aboard to see the famous fort where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
Cypress Gardens: Head north of Charleston to wander these stunning gardens or take a row boat through the swamps. A scene from The Notebook was filmed here!
Everywhere you look there are horses and carriages—I love it!
I can’t not take a picture of Pineapple Fountain every time I pass by
Charleston is busting at the seams with rich culture, fascinating history, and a thriving food scene. Each time I go, I like to try new restaurants and explore new parts of the city, and each time, I fall for Lowcountry life all over again.
Sweetgrass baskets and palmetto roses at the Charleston City Market
The Holy City gets its nickname from its church-filled skyline
Charleston is one of the most versatile places. You can enjoy a laidback beach vacation, an exciting girls’ trip, or a romantic getaway all at the same time. Whatever you want, Charleston has got it. I’d highly recommend booking a trip, especially if you’ve never been, and I can promise, you’ll love it too!
There’s nothing quite like sunsets at Sullivan’s Island Beach!