Charleston 10 days

Explore this historic market, one of the nation's oldest, offering local crafts, sweetgrass baskets, and souvenirs. It's a vibrant hub for local culture and artisans.

• Go early to avoid crowds.
• Look for authentic sweetgrass baskets.

Experience elevated Southern cuisine with a focus on heirloom ingredients. Husk is renowned for its commitment to local sourcing and innovative dishes.

• Reservations are highly recommended, often weeks in advance.
• Try their famous cornbread.

Stroll along the iconic Rainbow Row, a series of colorful historic Georgian row houses. It's one of the most photographed areas in Charleston.

Dine in a charming Victorian house, famous for its traditional Lowcountry fare and reported ghost sightings. It offers a romantic and historic dining experience.

• Ask for a table on the porch if weather permits.
• The She-Crab soup is a local favorite.

Visit one of America's oldest public gardens, featuring stunning flora, a historic house tour, and a nature tram. It offers a glimpse into antebellum plantation life.

• Allow ample time to explore the various garden sections.
• Consider the guided house tour for historical context.

Explore America's oldest landscaped gardens, a National Historic Landmark. Middleton Place offers house museum tours, stableyards, and plantation craft demonstrations.

• The stableyards provide a look at plantation crafts and animal husbandry.
• Enjoy the scenic views of the Ashley River.

Discover a rich collection of American art, with a focus on Charleston and the South. The museum showcases paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning centuries.

• Check for special exhibitions.
• The museum shop offers unique local art and books.

A beloved Charleston institution known for its seasonal, ingredient-driven menu. FIG emphasizes simple, delicious food with impeccable service.

• Reservations are essential and can be difficult to secure.
• Their wine list is extensive and well-curated.

Visit the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Accessible by ferry, it offers historical exhibits and panoramic views of Charleston Harbor.

• Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort.

Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning waterfront views at this popular restaurant located on a historic pier. It offers a lively atmosphere and classic Southern dishes.

• Great spot for lunch after visiting Fort Sumter.
• Try the oyster specials.

Relax in this beautiful 8-acre park with its iconic Pineapple Fountain. It features walking paths, gardens, and pier swings overlooking the harbor.

Experience sophisticated Lowcountry cuisine in an elegant yet comfortable setting. S.N.O.B. is known for its excellent service and well-crafted dishes.

• Perfect for a romantic dinner.
• Their shrimp and grits are a must-try.

Tour one of Charleston's most distinguished house museums, showcasing Neoclassical architecture and period furnishings. Learn about the city's prominent families and their lives.

• Many historic homes offer combined tickets.
• Photography may be restricted inside.

Enjoy a narrated horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming streets of the historic district. It's a relaxing way to see key landmarks and learn about Charleston's history.

• Tours depart from near the City Market.
• Choose a route that covers areas you haven't explored on foot.

Indulge in exquisite seafood and oysters in a beautifully restored bank building. The Ordinary offers a sophisticated ambiance and a superb raw bar.

• Their seafood towers are impressive.
• Excellent cocktail menu.

A vibrant oyster bar and seafood restaurant with a lively atmosphere. Known for its incredibly fresh fish and creative preparations.

• Expect a wait, as they do not take reservations for small parties.
• The lobster roll is a standout.

Enjoy a relaxing morning on this charming barrier island known for its beautiful beaches and quaint village. Visit Fort Moultrie for a dose of history.

• Rent bikes to explore the island.
• Look for the Edgar Allan Poe library.

Savor delicious BBQ and Southern sides in a casual, beach-friendly setting. It's a local favorite with a fun atmosphere.

• Try the 'Game Changer' BBQ sauce.
• Great for a relaxed lunch.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the wide, sandy beaches of Isle of Palms. The park offers amenities like picnic areas and playgrounds.

Dine in a beautifully restored single house, offering creative comfort food with a Southern twist. The ambiance is intimate and charming.

• Reservations are recommended.
• The Mac and Cheese is legendary.

Explore a remarkably preserved urban plantation house and its original outbuildings. It offers a poignant look at the lives of both the owners and the enslaved people.

• The preserved slave quarters are particularly insightful.
• Audio guides are available.

Embark on a guided walking tour to sample Charleston's diverse culinary scene. Discover hidden gems and learn about the city's food history.

• Wear comfortable shoes and come hungry.
• Ask your guide for restaurant recommendations.

Browse the boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops along King Street, Charleston's premier shopping destination. It's divided into Lower (antiques), Middle (fashion), and Upper (design) King.

Enjoy delicious oysters, fried chicken, and craft beers in a trendy, casual setting. This former garage has a great vibe and consistently good food.

• Go early or expect a wait.
• The fried chicken is as popular as the oysters.

Gain a profound understanding of the history of slavery in Charleston at this preserved site. The museum offers exhibits and a chapel that served enslaved people.

• This is a somber but important visit.
• Allow time for reflection.

A modern take on Southern BBQ, offering smoked meats and creative sides in a relaxed atmosphere. It's a great spot for a hearty lunch.

• Try the brisket or pulled pork.
• Good selection of local craft beers.

Explore the charming cobblestone streets, hidden alleys, and historic architecture of Charleston's French Quarter. This area is rich with history and artistic expression.

• Look for the Dock Street Theatre.
• Many art galleries are located here.

Experience a premier steakhouse known for its exceptional service, dry-aged steaks, and lively atmosphere. It's a Charleston institution for celebrations.

• Reservations are a must.
• The staff often sings for guests on certain nights.

Discover the diverse aquatic life of South Carolina, from the mountains to the sea. Highlights include the Great Ocean Tank and the Sea Turtle Hospital.

• Check feeding times for special viewing opportunities.
• Great for all ages.

Enjoy fresh oysters and creative seafood dishes in a chic, intimate setting. This popular spot is known for its lively bar and delicious small plates.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• Their brunch is also very popular.

Sample a wide selection of local and craft beers in a casual pub atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and enjoy a local brew.

• Ask about daily beer specials.
• Good spot to watch a game.

Taste authentic South Carolina whole hog barbecue, slow-cooked over wood coals. This James Beard Award-winning spot offers a true taste of tradition.

• The vinegar-based sauce is a must-try.
• Casual and family-friendly.

Experience America's oldest preserved plantation house open to the public, offering an authentic, un-restored look at 18th-century architecture and history. It provides a unique Gullah Geechee cultural perspective.

• Focuses on preservation rather than restoration.
• Offers a deeper dive into the lives of enslaved people.

Explore the site of the first English settlement in South Carolina, featuring a replica ship, colonial village, and beautiful natural landscapes. It offers walking trails and a museum.

• Climb aboard the replica sailing vessel.
• Great for birdwatching.

Walk along the scenic seawall promenade, enjoying views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor. White Point Garden offers beautiful oak trees and historic cannons.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise around Charleston Harbor as the sun sets. See the city skyline, Fort Sumter, and the Ravenel Bridge from the water.

• Bring a light jacket as it can get breezy.
• Great photo opportunities.

Explore the charming streets of Mount Pleasant's historic Old Village, known for its beautiful homes, boutiques, and cozy cafes. It offers a glimpse into local life just across the Cooper River.

• Visit the Old Village Post House.
• Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront park.

Savor authentic Southern comfort food, especially known for its delicious okra dishes. This local favorite offers generous portions in a friendly setting.

• The fried okra is a must-try.
• Expect a wait during peak hours.

Wander through the numerous art galleries concentrated on Broad Street, showcasing local and regional artists. Find unique paintings, sculptures, and crafts.

Enjoy a final, elegant meal at this renowned restaurant, famous for its sophisticated Lowcountry cuisine and the legendary Coconut Cake. The ambiance is refined and romantic.

• Definitely order the Coconut Cake for dessert.
• Dress code is smart casual.