Charleston a week

A historic public market spanning four city blocks, featuring local crafts, souvenirs, and sweetgrass baskets. It's a great place to experience local culture and find unique gifts.

• Arrive early for the best selection and fewer crowds.
• Look for vendors selling authentic sweetgrass baskets.

One of Charleston's oldest independent culinary establishments, housed in a beautiful Victorian house. Known for its Lowcountry cuisine and charming atmosphere, it's also rumored to be haunted.

A picturesque series of colorful historic houses along the Battery. This iconic street offers fantastic photo opportunities and a glimpse into Charleston's architectural past.

• Visit in the late afternoon for softer light for photos.
• Combine with a stroll along The Battery.

A celebrated restaurant focusing on elevated Southern ingredients and techniques, with a menu that changes daily. It's a quintessential Charleston dining experience for food enthusiasts.

• Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance.
• Explore their extensive bourbon list.

America's first public garden, offering stunning floral displays, a historic house tour, and beautiful walking paths. Explore the romantic gardens and learn about the plantation's history.

• Allow ample time to explore the different garden areas.
• Consider the guided nature train tour for a different perspective.

A National Historic Landmark renowned for its immaculately preserved 18th-century plantation architecture and America's oldest landscaped gardens. The estate provides a deep dive into the region's past.

• The Stableyards offer a glimpse into the lives of enslaved people and plantation workers.
• Don't miss the breathtaking reflection pool in the gardens.

A scenic waterfront park in Mount Pleasant, offering stunning views of Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge. It's a popular spot for dolphin watching and enjoying the coastal breeze.

• Great spot for sunset views.
• Several seafood restaurants line the creek.

Located on a historic pier, this restaurant offers fresh seafood with panoramic harbor views. Enjoy a casual yet refined dining experience with a focus on local flavors.

Charleston's premier art museum, showcasing a diverse collection spanning American art with a focus on Charleston and the South. The museum's architecture is also noteworthy.

• Check for special exhibitions.
• The rooftop terrace offers nice city views.

Explore the charming streets of the French Quarter, known for its historic architecture, art galleries, boutiques, and cobblestone alleyways. This area is rich in history and visual appeal.

America's first museum, offering extensive exhibits on South Carolina's natural and cultural history. It provides a comprehensive look at the region's evolution.

A highly acclaimed restaurant focusing on seasonal, local ingredients with an emphasis on simple, delicious preparations. FIG is a cornerstone of Charleston's culinary scene.

• Reservations are extremely difficult to secure; book months in advance.
• Their tasting menu is a great way to experience the chef's creations.

The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Accessible by ferry, it offers a profound historical experience and panoramic views of the harbor.

• Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces.

A historic defensive seawall and promenade at the tip of the Charleston peninsula, offering views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor. It's lined with antebellum mansions and cannons.

• Combine with a walk through White Point Garden.
• Enjoy the sea breeze and watch boats go by.

A beautiful 12-acre park along the Cooper River, featuring the iconic Pineapple Fountain, walking paths, and swings overlooking the water. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.

• The Pineapple Fountain is a popular photo spot.
• Rent a bike to explore the park and surrounding areas.

A vibrant oyster bar and seafood restaurant known for its exceptionally fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and creative crudo. The lively atmosphere makes it a popular dinner spot.

• Expect a wait, as they do not take reservations for small parties.
• Their seafood tower is a must-try.

A magnificent Neoclassical townhouse offering a glimpse into the lives of Charleston's wealthy merchant class. Its iconic free-flying staircase is a masterpiece of architecture.

• The guided tour provides excellent historical context.
• Notice the intricate plasterwork and original furnishings.

A preserved urban plantation complex featuring the main house, original slave quarters, and outbuildings. It offers a stark and important look at urban slavery.

• The preserved slave quarters are a significant part of the tour.
• This house offers a less romanticized view of antebellum life.

Charleston's premier shopping destination, divided into three sections: Design (antiques), Fashion (boutiques and national brands), and Charleston (local crafts and souvenirs).

A charming, intimate French restaurant with a daily-changing, handwritten menu. It offers a cozy atmosphere and authentic French cuisine.

A vibrant Saturday market in Marion Square featuring local produce, artisanal foods, crafts, and live music. It’s a fantastic way to sample local flavors and interact with vendors.

• Arrive hungry and try various food vendors.
• Look for unique local jams, baked goods, and hot sauces.

A beloved spot for delicious, freshly baked biscuits with a variety of sweet and savory toppings. It's a perfect casual lunch or snack stop.

The first African American slave museum in the United States, housed in a building that served as a slave auction gallery. It provides a somber but essential historical perspective.

• The exhibits are powerful and moving.
• Allow time for reflection.

Experience authentic South Carolina whole hog barbecue from a James Beard Award-winning pitmaster. Enjoy tender, smoky pulled pork and classic Southern sides.

• The whole hog platter is highly recommended.
• Try their signature vinegar-based BBQ sauce.

A significant colonial building that served as a custom house, market, and prison. Tours offer insights into Charleston's colonial and Revolutionary War history, including the dungeon.

• The tour includes a fascinating look at the dungeon.
• Learn about Charleston's role in early American history.

Experience the rich culture and history of the Gullah people, descendants of West African enslaved people. This guided tour offers unique insights into their traditions, language, and music.

• Book in advance, as tours are popular.
• Ask your guide about local Gullah cuisine.

A popular spot for fresh oysters and seafood in a stylish setting. Enjoy a final taste of Lowcountry flavors before departing.