The Charleston City Guide
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Living
The Charleston City Guide
June 22, 2023
When it comes to the destinations on everyone’s list, Charleston, South Carolina seems to sit at the top for most. From the character-filled streets to the sunny beaches that keep you capitated well past sunset, we’ve been eyeing a trip to Charleston as of late—and to kick us off, we decided to tap our friends near and far for a curated guide of what to do, see, drink, and eat in Charleston.
The Charleston City Guide
Activities
Folly Beach: It wouldn’t be a Charleston city guide without a few of our favorite beaches on the list. We love Folly Beach for adventurous days spent surfing or simply enjoying the sun.
Sullivan’s Island & Kiawah Island: Two luxe destinations for beachy getaways you’re bound to never forget. Kiawah has incredible golf courses for those so inclined, although we’re keen on the abundance of oceanfront views across both islands.
King Street & Broad Street: King Street is home to many of our favorite restaurants in Charleston, as well as an iconic weekend farmers market and plenty of bars for an afternoon drink, and Broad Street has enough character to keep you busy and exploring for days on end.
Waterfront Park: Located steps away from The Battery and Rainbow Row—a vibrant street with rainbow-colored homes—the cobblestone road leads you down to the water for impeccable views. We love Waterfront Park for leisurely sunset walks that eventually lead to enjoying a glass of wine waterside. P.S. Don’t forget to rent a bike and ride along the waterfront to explore everything with ease!
Hotels
The Loutrel: For those eager to spend their trip on King Street, the Loutrel—which is a few steps away from this central destination—is the hotel for you. We love exploring the city and then enjoying the sunset from their rooftop terrace.
Zero George Street: Charleston’s history is one to be rivaled, and Zero George Street plays into this sense of historical wonder with its iconic accommodations.
Hotel Bennet: This luxe hotel is the perfect pick for someone who is eager to unwind in complete style. With an unparalleled location and set of amenities that will make you feel right at home, the Hotel Bennet is perfect for a family or couple looking to take in the best of the city.
Hotels
Post House Inn: Located in the heart of the Old Village, the Post House Inn features a hotel and restaurant that are both worthy of a spot on your itinerary. With contemporary details that bring the entire space to life, you’ll love every stay here.
The Ryder Hotel: Just a short walk from many of Charleston’s hot spots, the Ryder Hotel is the dream place to stay for your weekend in South Carolina.
The Dewberry: The final hotel on our list is the Dewberry, an iconic Charleston destination with a rooftop bar that’s bound to be one of the best places you visit while in the city.
Shopping
Hart: We fell in love with Hart’s signature and special assortment of jewelry the moment we came across it on Instagram, and it’s been atop our must-visit list ever since. From gifts for loved ones to celebratory purchases for yourself, you won’t be disappointed when you visit Hart.
Hampden: This local favorite has everything you could ever imagine—from elevated basics to designer treasures, stop here when you’re in the mood to reinvigorate your wardrobe.
Lake Pajamas: We’re always in favor of investing in the pieces you spend the most time in—so pajamas are easily on the list. Lake Pajamas has classic silhouettes and colorful basics for everyone in the family.
Wynsum: One of our favorite vacation activities involves shopping for interior essentials. Wynsum has vintage finds that will transform your space instantly, making it a necessary visit on any Charleston visit.
Restaurants
Lewis Barbecue: This famous BBQ spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Show up early and be prepared to order almost everything.
Leons Oyster Shop: What would a trip to Charleston be without some oysters by the sea? Leons is a go-to that will never disappoint.
Island Provisions: This neighborhood hot spot brings out the best in curation and experience, from its delicious menu to the lovely faces you’ll see inside.
Millers All Day: We love to start the day with breakfast for brunch at Miller All Day, where, as one would assume, they serve breakfast all day.
Basic Kitchen: Basic Kitchen is one of those restaurants you can always count on for great ambiance and even better food. We are fans of the brunch scene, of course.
Sullivan’s Fish Camp: With a legacy of delicious dishes and local flavor that spans decades, Sullivan’s Fish Camp offers the best in seasonality with a fish-forward menu that is one for the ages.
Restaurants
Husk: With a knack for modern takes on classic southern dishes, award-winning Husk is bound to be a favorite amongst even the choosiest of friends accompanying you on your weekend away.
Verns: This neighborhood haunt serves up impeccable dishes—but it’s the interior style that you’ll instantly fall in love with.
Obstinate Daughter: Playing homage to the city’s defined food history, Obstinate Daughter is a blend of the best of southern hospitality.
Home Team BBQ: This laid-back restaurant serves up incredible drinks that pair perfectly with a menu that’s filled with dishes everyone’s bound to remember.
Sorelle: Sorelle is Charleston’s latest it-restaurant—and one dinner there makes it clear as to why. Do yourself a favor and add this spot to your reservation list.
Bars & Cafés
Alcove Market: Lively coffee shop and café for all your morning and afternoon needs. Fuel up here and go about your day exploring with ease.
Second State Coffee: Another coffee spot we can’t help but covet. From hot pours to inventive iced classics, we won’t visit Charleston without stopping here.
The Belmont: This cozy cocktail lounge is on King Street, which means it fits perfectly into your already bustling itinerary.
The Quinte Oyster Bar: What could be better than an artisanal cocktail and some fresh oysters? Not much. A visit to Quinte Oyster Bar will be a highlight of the weekend in no time.
Bar Rollins: It’s hard to imagine something more perfect than a natural wine in the heart of Charleston—and lucky for us, Bar Rollins checks both of those boxes.
The Gin Joint: This drink-centric destination pairs inventive cocktails with mouth-watering dishes with complete ease.
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Photos by Katie Charlotte