City Guide: Charleston, South Carolina
My interest in visiting Charleston first peaked when I saw it listed as one of the top fifteen cities in the world and the top city in the United States by Travel and Leisure. I wanted to see for myself what makes this city so remarkable, so my fiancé and I spent three days visiting back in December as part of a trip for my thirtieth birthday. This quaint city has everything from boutique hotels, trendy restaurants and bars, to outdoor activities and nearby beaches. However, what makes it truly unique and worth visiting is its historical significance, rich culture and beautiful architecture. Here is my guide to Charleston, South Carolina; the southern city with all charm.
WHERE TO STAY
The Dewberry
Once a federal office building, The Dewberry is now one of Charleston’s chicest hotels. The hotel has a sophisticated luxurious vibe, and the decor is the perfect mix of old Charleston with mid-century modern elements. On top of the stylish aesthetic, the service is also exceptional. Even before we arrived, the concierge e-mailed to see if we had any questions or if they could assist in booking any tours or reservations for us. Upon arrival, every staff member we encountered was more than welcoming and helpful, and the hotel even left me a card and a bottle of wine in our room for my birthday. The Dewberry features a spa, a rooftop lounge, rooftop yoga classes, and a French influenced restaurant. For guest’s convenience there are also complimentary bikes, and even complimentary luxury Volvo car service. I cannot say enough about our stay here and would definitely recommend it to anyone who is visiting Charleston.
The Dewberry Hotel
Other Accommodation Suggestions
Mid-Range $$
King Charles Inn
Andrew Pinckney Inn
High-End $$$
86 Cannon
The Spectator Hotel
Hotel Bella Grace
The Restoration Hotel
WHERE TO EAT
Charleston is known for its seafood and its southern fare, but the restaurant scene has been expanding in recent years. Many of the restaurants are housed in old historic builds that have been restored, which makes for a truly unique dining experience.
The Ordinary- housed in an old 1920’s bank, this is the place to go for upscale seafood in Charleston. If you’re not a fan of seafood you may want to skip this one as there are limited other menu options.
F.I.G- or “Food is Good.” With an award winning chef, this restaurant serves seasonal southern dishes sourced with local ingredients. If you search for the best restaurants in Charleston, F.I.G. will likely be on every list you come across.
Leon’s Oyster Shop- oysters, fried chicken, craft beer & rose on tap. This casual eatery inside an old body shop is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
Obstinate Daughter- located on Sullivan’s island about 20 minutes from Charleston. The restaurant has an elevated nautical vibe (perfectly fitting with it’s beach town location) and serves Italian cuisine.
167 Raw- this tiny no reservations restaurant may lack size but it is said to serve some of Charleston’s best seafood (which seems to be confirmed by the line that starts forming as soon as they open daily). Order something from their rotating beer and wine list to sip outside while you wait for your seat. *Since we have visited, 167 Raw has opened a second location on King Street.
Basic Kitchen- this bright and airy restaurant features a vegetable heavy menu with a focus on seasonal local produce. While this is the perfect spot for vegetarians and vegans, there are also a few meat and seafood options that make this a great spot for anyone looking for a lighter nourishing meal.
The Darling Oyster Bar- the name gives hint of what to expect when you step inside this beautifully decorated restaurant on King Street. The restaurant is always buzzing, but I would suggest going for brunch or oyster happy hour (we were disappointed with our food here when we went for dinner). Be sure to order the famous Bloody Mary.
Tip: If you don’t mind a bit of a wait, the best seats in the house are at the first come first serve raw bar where you get a front row seat to the fresh oysters being shucked.
Bloody Mary at The Darling Oyster Bar
Husk- this is Charleston’s most well-known restaurant. While we didn’t experience it for ourselves, we were told this is the place to try the best elevated Southern food. The restaurant itself is housed in a beautiful Victorian home, and you’ll find a constantly rotating menu that centers around locally sourced ingredients. Reservations are highly recommended.
Tip: The Bar at Husk is located in a separate building next door and is worth a visit while you wait for your table or if you simply can’t get in to the restaurant. The bar is known for their wide selection of premium bourbons, but there are also a variety of cocktails and wine to choose from. You can also find a few select food options available for order.
The Park Café – a farm to table spot for breakfast or brunch.
The Harbinger Café- a café with a full coffee bar, pastries, and some healthy breakfast options.
Goat.Sheep.Cow – a specialty cheese shop to grab an afternoon or pre-dinner charcuterie board and a glass of wine (or two).
The Macintosh – a casual farm to table restaurant with a James Beard nominated chef.
Chez Nous- an adorable French restaurant housed in a historic home. The hand-written menu changes daily and they also have a great wine list.
Glazed – a specialty doughnut shop.
The Daily – a bright and airy café serving coffee, cold-pressed juice, smoothies and quick food items. There are pastries and other grab and go options available, or stay and order from their more extensive sit down menu of bowls & sandwiches.
DRINKS/ NIGHTLIFE
Black Tap Coffee- a hip coffee shop.
Vintage Lounge- a stylish wine bar.
Cocktail Club- a craft cocktail lounge with a speakeasy vibe.
Felix Cocktails et Cuisine- a Parisian inspired cocktail bar & restaurant.
Felix Cocktails et Cuisine
Prohibition- a rustic bar with cocktails and live jazz music.
Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar- a sleek wine bar in uptown Charleston.
Republic Garden & Lounge– a nightclub atmosphere for dancing and bottle service.
Breweries- the craft beer scene in Charleston has taken off. Visit Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co, Holy City Brewing, or Revelry Brewery for some of the city’s best spots.
The Living Room or Citrus Club at The Dewberry Hotel- the chic mid-century Living Room bar at The Dewberry hotel is not only frequented by hotel guests and is the perfect spot for a pre or post dinner cocktail.
The Citrus Club is the hotel’s rooftop lounge and offers the best view in the city. The drinks are tropical inspired and there is a small food menu available. The Citrus Club is considered exclusive for hotel guests, but there are a few limited reservations open for others (just be sure to make them in advance).
The Living Room at The Dewberry Hotel
THINGS TO SEE
Rainbow Row- a row of pastel coloured historic homes. Read about the history behind these homes here.
Rainbow Row
South of Broad Neighbourhood- take some time walking around this neighbourhood to see some of the most beautiful homes in Charleston. A lot of the homes have historical significance and there are small plaques near the front doors explaining their background.
The Battery- a Civil War seawall landmark that is now a promenade. The promenade is lined beautiful mansions and a great spot to take a walk, run or bike ride.
The Battery
WHAT TO DO
Walking Tour- Charleston is South Carolina’s oldest city. Dating back to 1669, there is so much history worth learning about and the best way to explore and learn is on foot. There are many guided walking tours like this one, or if you are like us and prefer to do things on your own, download an app for a self guided audio walking tour.
The pink house on the left is one of Charleston’s oldest homes, said to have been built sometime between 1600-1712
Charleston City Market- established in 1807, this market is a place to find unique locally made items. You’ll find everything from jewelry, to woven baskets, souvenirs, and clothing. The market is open everyday of the year except for Christmas.
Gibbes Museum Of Art- visit this museum to get a taste of Southern art, history & culture.
The Charleston Museum- one of the oldest museums in the United States which features collections that showcase Charleston and Lowcountry history, the Charleston Revolutionary War, the Civil War, historic textiles and more.
Tour Some Of Charleston’s Historic Homes- For those who are history lovers, Charleston has many historic homes that are open for touring. The Nathaniel Russell House and the Aiken Rhett House are two of the most highly recommended.
Explore By Bike- while Charleston is very walkable, you’ll cover ground more quickly by bike. Some hotels like ours offer complimentary bikes for use, but if yours doesn’t or you aren’t staying at a hotel, Holy Spokes is an affordable bike rental service right downtown.
Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island – both located approximately 20 minutes from downtown Charleston, Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island are both the perfect spots for a quick day trip away from city. Wander the small towns, go paddle boarding or kayaking, or simply relax on the beach.
Candle Making Class at Candlefish- while this store has a ton of great already made candles and other items to purchase, their candle making workshop offers the unique experience of creating your own. An added plus: the workshops are BYOB and make a fun group activity with friends.
Shopping- King Street in Charleston has all your shopping needs covered. Here you’ll find everything from big name stores like H&M and Sephora, luxury designer stores like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, and many local boutiques.
For some unique local shopping experiences check out some of these stores:
Hampden Clothing- a beautifully curated store women’s high-end designer clothing and accessories.
Indigo Market- where you can find unique pieces for your home.
Indigo & Cotton- casual but high quality men’s clothing and accessories.
PRO TIPS
Charleston is popular year round but in terms of weather the best time to visit is April-May or October-November, when temperatures are mild. If you want to avoid the crowds and high hotel rates the best time to visit is fall or winter.
Downtown Charleston isn’t big, so the best and easiest way to get around is to walk. If you need to use a car, both Uber and Lyft are available.
Charleston’s increasing popularity means it’s restaurants are often quite busy. You’ll want to make reservations ahead of time for most restaurants, and far in advance for the most popular ones.
If you plan on visiting and touring many of Charleston’s historical sites and museums, the Charleston Heritage Federation Passport gives you admission to multiple sites at a discounted rate.
