A bunch of little outdoor shops with trinkets and the like in the historic district. Charlotte worked in the area for 4 years, starting in high school.
Toss-up between IOP and Sullivan's Island for the nicest beaches in the Charleston area.
Toss up between IOP and Sullivan's island for the nicest beaches in the Charleston area.
For a more bohemian feel, Folly Beach is what you're looking for. Probably the busiest of the 3, but it also has the most dining options.
This row of Southern-style mansions overlooking Charleston Harbor was formerly the heart and soul of the city's maritime activity. As you explore this picturesque neighborhood, make sure to also spend some time in the nearby White Point Garden, where several Civil War relics and memorials commemorate the city's role in the battle. Start your tour of the Battery at the 12-acre Waterfront Park, then follow the walking paths on East Battery Street for the nearly mile-long stroll to White Point Garden. If you're staying at one of the hotels or bed-and-breakfasts located downtown, you can easily walk along the Battery from your digs. If you're driving to the Battery, you'll find some limited street parking, and some lots closer to Waterfront Park. Several of the city's best walking tours make stops along the Battery. If you're interested in the history of the mansions or the promenade's role in the Civil War, consider signing up for a tour.
Built in 1755, this mansion was once the home of Arthur Middleton, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Today, Middleton Place houses an impressive collection of historic furniture and portraits (all originally owned by the Middleton family), plus a stable with heritage-bred animals. Visitors can also watch historical re-enactors demonstrate the skills and technology used on an 18th-century plantation or take a carriage or specialized tour. Just make sure you save time to treat yourself to a bite to eat at the Middleton Place Restaurant, where the menu is inspired by traditional low country cuisine and features items like shrimp and grits and collard greens.
With its centuries-old mansion and cobblestone streets, Charleston is like a living museum. One of the best ways to learn about its history (and its ghosts) and the significance of its best-known landmarks is on a walking tour. 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's paranormal presence, pirates and art galleries and studios. Most tours last two hours and cost $20 per person. Some operators may require you to make reservations in advance; check each tour company's website for specific times, reservation requirements and rates. And remember, you'll want to wear sturdy shoes and sunscreen, and bring water with you.