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charleston visitors guide28 May charleston visitors guide

. The Ultimate Charleston Travel Guide | Charleston Blonde If you'd rather take home a painting, head over to East Bay and Broad Streets to the art district. Mount Pleasant: Crossing the Ravenel Bridge leads you to Mount Pleasant. Therefore, visitors can rest assured that the aquarium's many residents ranging from alligators to eels to otters are treated with the utmost care. Though the ferry ride is not the main attraction, most enjoyed it, calling it relaxing and a great way to see some of the area's dolphins. >> If you want to take a carriage tour, I recommend this one. Today, you can visit the base and tour the submarine; an experience that many recent visitors said is well worth your time, especially if you're interested in naval history. U.S. News Insider Tip: If food is a priority, Sullivan's Island offers the widest and best assortment of restaurants of Charleston's three main beaches. CWV | Charleston, West Virginia - Events, Hotels & Things To Do CONS: Because it's in the middle of the action, this location can be noisy no matter the time of day or night. Published annually, the official Charleston Visitors Guide is full of gorgeous photography, insider tips, maps, and resources to help you plan your Charleston vacation. More than just a 22-room property, the hotel also features three furnished residences which can be reserved for stays of 30 days or longer a spa, daily complimentary breakfast, and a 40-seat oyster bar, known as The Quinte. Charleston - South Carolina Tourism Charleston is one of America's favorite destinations. After a long bike ride around the neighborhood (on complimentary beach cruisers, of course), begin your evening with a cocktail in the outdoor courtyard before tucking into the seasonal fare offered at the on-site Zero Restaurant. Youll receive an email shortly with directions on how to download your Charleston checklist. And, in 2022, Second Sunday on King is BACK! All perfectly situated to help you explore Charleston's wonderful sights and attractions. >> Read my full review of the Holiday Inn Charleston Historic District review here. From there, meander past stately three-story mansions or into the French Quarter where homes are still lit by flickering gas lamps. Request a Travel Guide. The Francis Marion Hotel is named after the legendary "Swamp Fox," who helped the South Carolina cause during the American Revolution. 16 Patriots Point Road. It was once home to many enslaved families, who resided in the property's four cabins from 1850 until the late 20th century. Read More: The Ultimate Charleston Packing List. On the main floor, you'll find the cozy Living Room, where you can refresh with coffee or cocktails or grab a bite to eat. 27 Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC | U.S. News Travel When I run into people visiting Charleston, many of them express confusion on why the beaches aren't closer to the downtown area. Visitor Centers Statewide . City of Hartsville. If you're looking for a narrated experience, sign up for a Charleston Harbor Tour: its daily harbor tours pass more than 75 sights while the captain shares stories and facts about the area. With its wide front porch and classical architecture, Hampton Plantation looks more like a stereotypical antebellum plantation than Magnolia Plantation does. Take a walk along the northern tip of the island to see Morris Island lighthouse and search for shark's teeth. According to many, the Aiken-Rhett House Museum is a unique and educational place to learn about life in Charleston during the 19th century. You can pop in for lunch there's a fully functioning deli in the backor stop for locally brewed beer, hot sauce, and freshly baked goods. Today, White Point Garden attracts both locals and tourists to its historic monuments and markers, shaded benches and its gazebo, which hosts weddings and other events. There are a variety of options available, ranging from broad tours of the city's historic downtown district to more niche tours that explore the city'sparanormal presence, pirates and art galleries. If you forget your pajamas, or you desperately want to add another striped set to your closet, the Southern brands store is open on Lower King. Considerably larger than Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, this 738-acre property is best known for its Avenue of the Oaks: a lengthy corridor of 1700s-era live oak trees that form a picturesque canopy over the path leading up to the historic mansion. Natalie Vereen-Davis is a native of Charleston, South Carolina who loves to explore her hometown between trips around the globe with her husband and 2 kids. Founded in 1773, the Charleston Museum is said to be the country's first museum, and with a focus on the South Carolina Lowcountry, it's a perfect place to learn about the area. PROS: great locations within the historic district; visitors can get to know staff and other patrons; cocktail hours offered; beautiful, private-garden like landscaping, CONS: smaller with fewer amenities; bookings go extremely quickly; there are often weddings/wedding parties at these hotels. Inspired by the Isadora James quote, "A sister friend is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning a life," this year's theme looks to celebrate friendships between sisters (and brothers, too), both familial and . Oh, and there are three beaches that each have a unique vibe! First. The Ultimate 3-Day Charleston Guide The Blonde Abroad TIME TO SPEND. A comprehensive travel guide and a collection of tips for visiting Charleston, South Carolina, from the experts at Cond Nast Traveler. var l = window.location.href, Many of the rich planters also had fashionable "city" homes in downtown Charleston, so you can get the full story by visiting both the plantations and the houses in historic Charleston SC. This annual juried exhibition features works in fiber created by African American artists from throughout the United States. We wouldn't blame you if you extended your reservation once you arrive. Breathable fabrics, like linen and cotton, help make the heat and humidity a bit more tolerable. The park was also used as a public garden during the 19th century and was the site of many social events and gatherings. Explore Charleston's Historic Hidden Gardens. Across the street from the waterfrontpromenade is Rainbow Row. Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) offers three routes on the peninsula (free). A popular county park offers showers, picnic tables, and volleyball nets for a fee, but be prepared to wait for a spot on summer weekends. 256 full color pages, with insider tips, maps, & listings on where to stay & what to do in Charleston, SC. Find top-rated hotels at the lowest prices on Priceline Check rates now! This 17-day annual event (which runs from late May through early June) draws tens of thousands of visitors, both domestic and international, who come for the festival's unique blend of world-class performances and Southern charm. Travel Guide. Charleston is a capital city with small town charm. Wentworth Mansion is an incredible property with beautifully appointed rooms and a feel of old school luxury. Visit Charleston for an unforgettable adventure. Isle of Palms, Sullivans Island, and Folly Beach are some of the best East Coast islands for family vacations, and theyre located just off the coast of Charleston. Construction took less than four years and the bridge opened to traffic on July 16, 2005, at a cost of $632 million. Arthur Ravenel Bridge - visit historic charleston No matter the season, youll want sunscreen, bug spray, and an umbrella. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Course, a five-star hotel with unbeatable ocean views, is pure luxury and relaxationa must-stay for special occasions and celebrations. Charleston International Airport (CHS) is about a 20-minute drive from most Charleston attractions. The Planters Inn also has the BEST coconut cake ever! High Season: March to May, September to November. Visit Middleton Place to tour the house museum originally built in 1755 and America's Oldest Landscaped Gardens. Kiawah and Seabrook Islands: Privacy and quiet are two things you'll find upon venturing further out into the gated communities of Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. While downtown tends to get most of the focus, I'd encourage you to rent a car and explore the entire area. Fans of Charleston's 19th historical homes will enjoy visiting the Edmonston-Alston House. This email address is being protected from spambots. Charleston Visitors Guide | Best Restaurants & Things To Do - InTown Suites You can get a ferry over to this national monument from Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant or from the pier near the South Carolina Aquarium downtown. is dedicated to bringing locals and visitors the highest quality content related to the cities we feature. <<. Request your FREE South Carolina Vacation Guide! Visit Website. Adding to the confusion, we tend to call the entire Charleston area "Charleston" even when it isn't part of the city of Charleston. Food tends to be a popular topic of conversation in Charleston, as the F&B scene is paramount for most visitors, but theres plenty to do in between meals. In order to perform this action you have to login, Meet & Greet With Mayoral Candidate Clay Middleton. Charleston has had a starring role in South Carolina history since its founding more than 300 years ago. City of Charleston. The Holiday Inn Charleston Historic District is one of the newer hotels on the peninsula. The peak of wisteria season ("wisteria hysteria") falls in mid-March, right after the Charleston Food + Wine Festival, where the Lowcountry shows off its diverse, world-renowned food culture on a larger stage. May we send you offers from our partners? You should also stop by Fort Sumter's small, yet informative museum, which provides more in-depth information about the fort's role in the war. Visiting Fort Sumter circa 1994. It operated mainly as a cotton plantation until the last crop was planted in 1922. To add value to your time here, some recommend walking by at sunset to enjoy views along the water after or stopping for a drink in one of Charleston's oldest bars: the Tavern at Rainbow Row which dates to 1686. 843-724-7311. Yorktown, the U.S.S. No matter your vacation style, your travel party size or your ideal itinerary, Charleston is home to alluring accommodations for every visitor. South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston Visitors Guide Explore North Myrtle Beach. Privacy Policy | Subscribers Freebie Library, Visitor's Guide to Charleston SC Sections. Daniel Island: Between the Cooper and Wando Rivers, Daniel Island is one of Charleston's best places for outdoor activities. When it comes to South Carolina barbecue, patience is a virtue. Visitors can see this blend of design styles in the home's public rooms and outdoor piazzas, as well as the extensive collection of period pieces from furniture and mirrors to portraits and Alston family silver. After touring, you can wander along the walking trails that follow the Ashley River and the marsh, or pay your respects at the on-site African American Cemetery. To get a better view of the Charleston harbor (and maybe even spot some dolphins), consider signing up for a boat tour. A reservation for larger parties is advised, but last-minute diners and small groups can usually find space either inside or on the spacious outdoor patio. The gorgeous tree is 65 feet high, with a circumference of 25.5 feet. That sordid portion of our history did occur elsewhere in our city in private auctions, near the Exchange Building, and in the actual slave market, and you can learn more about it at the Old Slave Mart Museum. Bachelor/bachelorette parties on King Street, cultural based family travel, a family beach reunion, or a couple's romantic getaway are all equally possible here! Winters in the Southeast are typically mild and occasionally rainy; temperatures rarely drop low enough for snow flurries. Recent travelers agreed that the Wildlife Center and nature center make this a great place to bring the kids. >> Learn more about the wide array of things to do in Isle of Palms and Sullivans Island. Visit Historic Charleston SC (2023) Charleston Visitors Guide Many also praised the expert guides. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and arts, indulge in mouth-watering Southern cuisine, explore the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path spots, and unwind in the breathtaking beaches and waterways. We showcase the best hotels, restaurants, attractions, local businesses, and events to help Charlestons visitors make better buying decisions. Choose from guided tours through private homes, self-guided strolls through Charleston's most beautiful gardens, or walking tours down the historic streets. Weve taken 2, both of which I recommend. Its also close to Mount Pleasant's new Waterfront Park, which has a great playground, tackle shop, and pier. The annual Holiday Festival of Lights, a three-mile driving tour through James Island County Park, is a favorite family-friendly activity in the evenings. Check out our Charleston Visitors Guide for the best of the best in the city. Mount Pleasant's historic Old Village has been the spot for many Charleston filming locations, and is well worth a visit. I think this issue comes from the fact that guide books push the "Charleston is walking accessible" angle and leave out the fact that the historic district is only one part of the larger Charleston area. Home to more than 5,000 animals, the South Carolina Aquarium is a fun attraction for those traveling with young children. February is the unofficial start of festival season, as Charleston sets up for the Southeastern Wildlife Exhibition (SEWE), a weekend celebration of all things outdoorsincluding art, sporting exhibitions, and the can't-miss dock dog competition. <<. Built in late Federal style by Charles Edmondston, the home changed hands a mere decade later when the Scottish shipping merchant suffered financial woes. Recent beachgoers praised the wide, clean beach and said it's a beautiful place to relax. PEARLZ OYSTER BAR 153 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401 843.577.5755 pearlzoysterbar.com Fun, eclectic & serving the very . Cypress Gardens: 25 minutes north of Charleston, you'll find 170 acres of preserved green space. The Ultimate Charleston Travel Guide This is the insider's guide to the charming Southern city. A First-time Visitor's Guide to Charleston, SC [Updated for 2022!] 3 Day Charleston, SC Itinerary | U.S. News Travel If you choose to explore by foot, you can head to the area on your own or sign up for a Charleston walking tour that includes a stop at these colorful structures. After brunch or before dinner, take one of the custom Emeline bikes out for a spin around the neighborhood. Our goal is to provide viewers the best of the best so that you can find the information you need when you need it. Ask for a room away from Meeting Street. The smaller of the two barrier islands on the Mount Pleasant side. The festival draws its name from the city of Spoleto in Italy where Menotti previously founded an arts festival. It's a pricey option, but a great way to see downtown and Mount Pleasant. (843) 849-2300. Restaurants like Jackrabbit Filly and EVO Pizza are worth the trek when the peninsula becomes overcrowded by the influx of summer tourists. Visit Fort Sumter where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. It has been a shopping hub since the 1800s and is one of the country's oldest city markets. Recent travelers enjoyed the home's collection of antique Charleston-made furnishings and formal gardens, as well as the chance to see an original kitchen from the 1740s. Previous visitors said the Edmondston-Alston House was a highlight of their trip for its architectural details, waterfront location, and knowledgeable docents who shared insights into 19th century life for both the families and enslaved in Charleston. Charleston Channel brings you the excitement and experiences of Charleston's best informative videos right from your hotel room. Find your happy plate at one of more than 220 barbecue restaurants across the state. *We will not sell or give away your personal information. Lucky for you, you've got a local as your Charleston SC tour guide to share the real tips on where to . Rainbow Row in the historic district of Charleston SC. While some areas like Park Circle are adorable and safe, other parts of North Charleston are less so. Pitmasters across the Palmetto State know it's the time-honored tradition of cooking pork "slow and low" that keeps visitors coming back for seconds. Cost: Tickets are $34.95 for adults. Charleston attracts international and domestic tourists all year round, but youll find different weather, events, and downtown decor depending on the month you choose to visit. OFFICIAL AREA VISITORS GUIDE O fficial Charleston Area South Carolina Visitors Guide ExploreCharleston.com SOUTH CAROLINA CHARLESTON NORTH CHARLESTON MOUNT PLEASANT FOLLY BEACH ISLE OF PALMS . Here you'll find the famous Angel Oak tree and several golf courses, both private and public. Mount Pleasant's historic Old Village has been the spot for many Charleston filming locations, and is well worth a visit.. There's a large shopping center, Towne Center, for last minute souvenir shopping, and Mount Pleasant offers bridge access to both Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms. Visitors come to enjoy camellia and azalea season in early spring and wildlife throughout the year. Across the Cooper River and Charleston Harbor lies Shem Creek, where you can rent kayaks or paddle boards to paddle alongside dolphins and explore the surrounding creek and marsh. In both situations, you'd never run out of things to do. For added security, consider a basic and affordable travel insurance policy. Head to South Carolina. Social media listings are your best tool for finding local oyster roasts, but you'll need to purchase tickets in advance for the Preservation Society of Charleston's Fall Tours. Originally built in the early 1800s and then expanded . The Dewberry, which describes itself as "offering old-world charm with a distinctive modern edge," is right downtown, just a block from King Street. Lydia Mansel is a freelance writer with over eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publicationswith a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. Charleston, SC, Travel Guide & Tips | Cond Nast Traveler According to most Charleston visitors, Fort Sumter is a must-see, especially for kids and history buffs. Choose from a menu of Charleston's best historic inns, beachside resorts, hotels, beach rentals and more. Though financially incapable of completing the project, she fostered the initiative to reinvigorate the area, an undertaking later accomplished by Dorothy Porcher Legge. Strolling through Charleston's charming downtown is one of the best free activities. Add Kiawah Island to your summer beach bucket list if you're prepared to drive a little further. City of Georgetown. By the early 2000s, a major revitalization was underway, and today, this area is filled with incredible restaurants! Three restored historic homes and two brick carriage homes house 16 luxurious rooms that exude rest and relaxation. It has 3 fantastic beaches within easy driving distance of the main historic area, and there's gorgeous architecture wherever you turn. Modeled after traditional English and European gardens, the 65-acre grounds are peppered with camellias, azaleas, magnolias and myrtle throughout the year. Fishing charters are also available for those who want to try their luck at catching some of the local seafood. Other must-visits include the centuries-old Angel Oak tree and Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, both year-round activities. <<. Charleston may be known for its natural beauty, world-class restaurants, shopping, and romantic appeal, but what people fall in love with is its overall charm. The Preservation Society of Charleston brings you the best from local artisans and brands, including Brackish Bow Ties, Smithey Ironware, and J. Stark. There's also the "Lowcountry History Hall" exhibit, which displays materials related to the Native Americans who inhabited the South Carolina coast prior to colonization, as well as the enslaved African Americans responsible for the region's agricultural wealth. Folly Beach's friendly atmosphere attracts a variety of travelers: most of the families stick to the shore, while adults traveling sans kids tend to congregate in the many bars nearby. City of Newberry. I'd also recommend a pedicab, but know that due to ridiculous local laws, the pedicab drivers cannot, under any circumstances, give you anything resembling a tour as this violates the Charleston tour guide association rules. This post contains affiliates. Shes also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com. Lucky for you, you've got a native Charlestonian at the helm to share the real tips on where to visit, eat, shop, and sleep in historic Charleston, South Carolina. Many travelers say you can't leave Charleston without strolling this historic seawall along the city's southern tip, which they call both beautiful and what makes Charleston special. In this post, I'll cover everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Charleston, including my favorite time to visit, the rundown on all the top tourist attractions, and my personal picks for some of the best restaurants. PROS: high-end detailing, including Tiffany glass features, and antiques; fantastic onsite restaurant, Circa 1886; gorgeous landscaping. Stop by Babas on Cannon for European-inspired dishes, an espresso, and maybe an aperitif or two. PROS: historic hotel; less than 1 block from College of Charleston; overlooks Marion Square; great shopping along King Street, CONS: rooms are a bit bland (neutral color scheme) and un-uniform (it's an old hotel so one queen bedroom isn't going to look exactly like all of the other queen bedrooms).

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