Charleston 3 days

A historic public market that has been a cornerstone of Charleston since the 1800s. Browse a variety of local crafts, souvenirs, sweetgrass baskets, and artisanal food products.

• Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Look for authentic sweetgrass baskets, a traditional Gullah craft.

Dine in a beautifully restored Victorian house, renowned for its Southern comfort food and charming atmosphere. It's a popular spot for lunch, known for its shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes.

A picturesque stretch of historic Georgian row houses painted in vibrant pastel colors along the Battery. It's one of the most photographed areas in Charleston and offers lovely views of the harbor.

• Visit in the late afternoon for softer light for photos.
• Be mindful of residents as this is a residential street.

A historic defensive seawall and promenade at the tip of the Charleston peninsula, lined with antebellum mansions. Enjoy panoramic views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor, and explore the oak-shaded White Point Garden.

• Look for the historic cannons and monuments.
• Great spot for people-watching and enjoying the sea breeze.

Experience elevated Southern cuisine with a focus on ingredients sourced from the South. Husk is celebrated for its innovative dishes and extensive bourbon list, offering a refined dining experience.

• Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance.
• The menu changes frequently based on seasonal availability.

This museum is housed in a building that served as a slave auction gallery, offering a poignant and essential look at the history of slavery in Charleston. It provides historical context and personal stories.

• Allow ample time for reflection.
• Check for any special exhibits or programming.

Explore America's oldest landscaped gardens, a stunning example of formal gardens with sweeping lawns, terraces, and reflecting pools. The plantation also includes a house museum and stableyards showcasing plantation life.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking the grounds.
• Consider the house tour for a deeper dive into history.

Visit America's only tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process from leaf to cup. Enjoy a trolley tour through the fields and a tasting of their Charleston Tea Plantation brand.

• Purchase tea directly from the plantation shop.
• The trolley tour provides excellent photo opportunities.

A highly acclaimed restaurant focusing on seasonal, local ingredients with a farm-to-table philosophy. FIG offers a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience, known for its commitment to Charleston's culinary scene.

• Reservations are extremely difficult to secure; book months in advance.
• The menu is prix fixe and changes daily.

Discover a rich collection of American art, with a particular focus on Charleston and the South. The museum features paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning centuries, housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building.

• Look for the rotating special exhibitions.
• The museum shop offers unique art-related gifts.

Explore some of Charleston's most magnificent historic house museums, showcasing opulent interiors and architectural grandeur. Options include the Nathaniel Russell House with its stunning cantilevered staircase and the preserved-as-found Aiken-Rhett House.

• Purchase a multi-house ticket for savings if visiting several.
• Guided tours offer in-depth historical context.

As dusk approaches, delve into Charleston's spooky past with a guided walking tour. Hear tales of pirates, hauntings, and historical mysteries as you explore the city's atmospheric streets and graveyards.

• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking extensively.
• Tours often depart from central locations, check your booking details.

Enjoy craft cocktails and stunning panoramic views of Charleston Harbor and the city skyline from this popular rooftop bar. It's a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the evening ambiance.

• Dress code is smart casual.
• Can get crowded, especially on weekends.