Things To Do
Rainbow Row
Park at the Prioleau Street garage. Start your trip to Rainbow Row by walking toward the Pineapple Fountain first, then just start walking left. Don't forget to swing by the oldest liquor store in America-- on the corner, can't miss it (just don't go on Sundays because they are closed). Then take a walk through Rainbow Row-- truly iconic. Keep walking and you'll reach the Battery, which offers gorgeous views of the Charleston Harbor.
Pineapple Fountain
A must see for any first time visitor!
Folly Beach
Folly Beach is a special place for us! We became a couple here, spent many weekends here while we were long-distance, and it is where we got engaged! If you get the chance, check out the newly renovated pier. Start your day with breakfast at Lost Dog (do not skip the eggs benedict, cinnamon roll, or cappuccino!). Grab lunch at either Chico Feo (best tacos in town) or Rita's (we like the Rita's Nachos). If you're into frozen drinks- go to Loggerheads and order a Lava Flow (bonus points for it being an Eagles bar. Go Birds!). Low Life and Jack of Cups are great dinner options!
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, on the banks of the Ashley River near Charleston, SC, is one of the Lowcountry’s oldest public attractions. It is a phenomenal horticultural destination, a significant historic and cultural site, and a place of unparalleled natural beauty.
Bulldog Tours
For the history buffs-if you want to get your steps in and learn an overview of Charleston history, we recommend booking a tour with Bulldog! We have done 2 tours with them so far. Tour guide Jack Kelly is the best!
King Street
The shopping district of Charleston! If you are looking for a fun activity or a different souvenir, stop by Candlefish to take a candle making class (book ahead), or smell over 100 candles in their library. A fragrance making class at Tijon is also a great way to spend an afternoon! You may want to book a class ahead of time, or simply pop in to shop their fragrances.
Charleston City Market
A great spot for souvenirs! Post cards, hats, tee shirts, Christmas ornaments. You name it- this place has it. Check out the several sweetgrass basket makers in the market for a true "Charleston" souvenir or gift!
The Charleston Museum
Founded in 1773, The Charleston Museum, America's First Museum, has been discovering, preserving, celebrating, and sharing ever since. Learn more about South Carolina's Lowcountry and the stories that make us who we are.
Gibbes Museum of Art
As Charleston’s only visual arts museum, the Gibbes welcomes all audiences – from frequent visitors to first-time guests. "We welcome visitors with an activity-filled first floor that’s free and open to the public. Purchase tickets to view the galleries on the second and third floors. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance for Saturday and Sunday admission (non-members)." Each week on Wednesdays at 1PM and on Fridays at 1PM guests can join a public tour with one of their Museum Interpreters.
South Carolina Aquarium
Connect with thousands of animals and explore the Sea Turtle Care Center at the South Carolina Aquarium daily from 9am-5pm in downtown Charleston.
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
The USS YORKTOWN (CV-10) was the tenth aircraft carrier to serve in the United States Navy. Under construction as BON HOMME RICHARD, this new Essex-class carrier was renamed in honor of YORKTOWN (CV-5) sunk at the epic Battle of Midway (June 1942). Built in an amazing 16 ½ months at Newport News, Virginia, YORKTOWN was commissioned on April 15, 1943. World War II’s famous “Fighting Lady” would participate significantly in the Pacific offensive that began in late 1943 and ended with the defeat of Japan in 1945. YORKTOWN received the Presidential Unit Citation and earned 11 battle stars for service in World War II. In the 1950s, YORKTOWN was modernized to operate jet aircraft as an attack carrier (CVA). In 1957, she was re-designated an anti-submarine aircraft carrier (CVS), and would later earn 5 battle stars for service off Vietnam (1965-68). The ship also recovered the Apollo 8 astronauts and capsule (December 1968). YORKTOWN was decommissioned in 1970 and placed in reserve.
Fort Sumter National Monument
Guardians of Charleston Harbor Two forts stand at the entrance of Charleston Harbor. Patriots inside a palmetto log fort, later named Fort Moultrie, defeated the Royal Navy in 1776. As Charleston blazed a path towards secession to preserve slavery, construction on a new fort, Fort Sumter, proceeded. The Confederacy fired on the US garrison of Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861 opening the Civil War, which redefined American freedom.
Shem Creek
Come here for the vibes and stay for the sunsets. Grab dinner and a drink and enjoy the waterfront views. Fans of OBX on Netflix will recognize Shem Creek, as it is one of their filming locations!
Leon's
Fried Chicken and Oysters-- That is what South Carolina does. And Leon's is one of the best to do it! Check out their sister restaurant Melfi's for great Italian.
82 Queen
Authentic, dressed up Southern Food. Their brunch is fantastic! Do not skip the She Crab Soup (best in the city) or a Bloody Mary!
Husk
A great date-night spot for upscale, Southern cuisine. We love the crudo for an appetizer and, if it's on the menu, do not miss the Robert Redford pie for dessert!
Halls Chophouse
Some of the best steaks and service you will get in Charleston. Make a reservation ahead of time! Do not be surprised if Billy Hall himself greets you with a handshake. True southern hospitality!
Gaulart & Maliclet Fast and French Inc.
A great spot for a quick breakfast or lunch! Awesome views of Saint Michaels.
Carmella's Cafe and Dessert Bar
Some of our favorite coffee in the city! Stop by for a breakfast sandwich or pastry and a coffee and you're ready for the day. Come back for dessert-- you cannot go wrong with anything on the menu!
Post House
One of the best burgers we've had in Charleston was at the Post House! Just a short trip over the Ravenel Bridge and into the Old Village of Mount Pleasant. This is the most charming town! After dinner, take a walk down Pitt Street and admire the homes, and then take a walk out on the Pitt Street bridge for the best views of the Lowcountry and a sunset.
Edmund's Oast Brewing Co.
Charleston has many great breweries! We love Edmund's Oast. Not too far away from Edmund's is Fattys, Brewlab, and Munkle-- which are also worth visiting! Try them all. :)
Home Team BBQ
Home Team has some of the best BBQ around! Check out one of their many locations for a true, southern BBQ experience.
Stars Rooftop & Grill Room
Grab cocktails and take in 360 views of our gorgeous city! Other rooftops: The Dewberry and Vendue are very popular, too!
Millers All Day
Great spot for breakfast or lunch! They have a James Island location as well, for the folks staying closer to Folly Beach.
The Co-Op Gourmet Sandwiches
Quick breakfast or lunch! If you are visiting Sullivans Island- they have a location here too! Ps. Be careful with the frose- don't say we didn't warn you. ;)
Blind Tiger Pub
Great pub and bar food for something casual!
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
A little touristy, but great views and we hear their seafood tower is legendary!
O-Ku
For all the sushi fans! O-ku never disappoints and has a happy hour menu (% off rolls and select wines!) We also love Shiki and hear awesome things about 167 Raw!
Oyster House Seafood Restaurant
Convenient location downtown- has a great happy hour menu with $1 oysters during certain times of the day!
Chez Nous
For folks looking for a fine dining option- Chez Nous has been on our list forever and we've heard incredible things.
FIG
Another fine dining option-- tough to get a reservation, but you may be able to snag a seat at the bar!
Frannie & The Fox
Another great restaurant by the popular City Market. Great pizzas, small plates, entrees-- you cannot go wrong!