Consistently, Charleston ranks among the best cities in the United States in several luxury travel publications, including Conde Nast and Travel & Leisure. With is beautiful beaches, historic architecture, vibrant arts district, and incredible food scene, it’s no wonder why so many people want to move to the area. Check out some of my favorite places and events below.
Explore Charleston’s Historic District….
Start your morning off with a cappuccino from Harkins, Mercato or breakfast at Miller’s All Day, and then take a stroll down Rainbow Row to The Battery and enjoy a book in the park at White Point Gardens, then circle back for a 3 or 4 block walk up historic Church Street.
Head over to The Gibbes Museum, which is home to over 7,000 works of American art. Pop into one of the many art galleries on Church Street or Broad Street.
For lunch, try 167 Raw for oysters and a lobster roll. Stop by The Preservation Society store to shop for locally made goods or books about Charleston. From there take a walk down lower King Street to enjoy some shopping. There’s something for everyone; antiques, clothing, shoes, home goods and more!
Finish your day with dinner at Anson’s, The Establishment or FIG. If you’re still standing, head to the Peninsula Grill for a nightcap and a slice of the 12-layer coconut cakes.
Just a few of the literally hundreds of great restaurants and café’s Charleston has to offer.
Take in a show……
Spoleto Festival USA – A 17-day festival each spring featuring artists from all over the world preforming in some of Charleston’s most historic venues. Currently in its 47th season, this year’s event takes place May 26 – June 11, 2023.
The Charleston Gaillard Center – One of Charleston’s leading preforming arts centers. The venue features concerts, Broadway shows & dance performances.
Dock Street Theatre – Located in the historic French Quarter district offering plays and traditional musical performances.
Tour a couple of Historic Homes….
The Nathaniel Russell House, or the Heyward Washington House, or a true time capsule, the Aiken Rhett House.
For the sports fan…..
Credit One Stadium – Home to the Credit One Charleston Open – enjoy world class tennis from this newly renovated venue.
Charleston RiverDogs – Minor league baseball team in the Carolina League. Fun for the entire family at the Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park.
Charleston Battery – American professional soccer club located in Mt. Pleasant.
Relax on the beach…..
Sullivan’s Island – Spend the day at the beach and stroll to the Sullivan’s Island light house. Grab lunch or dinner at The Obstinate Daughter featuring local produce and seafood then enjoy something sweet after dinner at Beardcats Sweet Shop.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort – Spend your weekend enjoying the luxurious Sanctuary Hotel, South Carolina’s premier 5-star hotel. Take a morning walk down the beach or enjoy a bike ride on one of the nature-filled paths. Lounge by the pool or play a round of golf at one of the world class courses where some of the biggest names in golf have played! Take a short drive to Freshfields Village for dining and shopping.
Folly Beach – Stay at the new Hotel Folly – walk down to Lost Dog Café to enjoy breakfast. Check out the newly renovated pier and enjoy lunch and frozen cocktail at Pier101. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or watching the surfers at the Washout.