Samantha Anne & Mark Ellington
Things To Do
College of Charleston
The most important place in Mark and Sam's life, as it's where they met and the reason you'll be here! CofC was founded in 1770 - 6 years before the United States - by signers of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, including John Rutledge, Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, and Arthur Middleton. Our campus is frequently cited as among the most beautiful in the nation, with gorgeous antebellum architecture throughout the stately old Live Oaks.
Downtown Charleston
Historic: Charleston remains nearly unchanged since the antebellum period; the city is steeped in history from the colonial period to today. Explore some of the historic homes, sites, and churches available to tour throughout the city. Shopping: King Street between Broad and Spring offers some of the finest shopping in the nation. With flagship stores of famous brands to independently owned retailers, there are quality goods for every taste. Walking: Charleston is best experienced on foot. Stroll through Waterfront Park by the Pineapple Fountain and gaze out over the harbor where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, or saunter though White Point Gardens and the Battery. Step back in time from there as you meander Meeting, King, and Church Streets on your way back to the center of town at Marion Square.
Beaches
Sullivan’s Island: A classic beach town right off the peninsula and our favorite place to spend hours swimming, walking, and sunbathing. As you make your way back downtown from the beach, be sure to stop and enjoy the many restaurants on Middle Street. Folly Beach: This surf town is dotted with great beach bars with a slightly rowdier character. You'll love riding the waves or walking the pier at this beach South of the city.
Shem Creek
One of the main tributaries of Charleston Harbor, Shem Creek is lined with amazing bars with spectacular views. Have a drink as you watch dolphins play and shrimp boats ply their trade. Rent a kayak and explore the marshes, or take a sail on one of the charter boats.
Hampton Plantation
This historic State Park is where Mark proposed to Sam directly underneath the Washington Oak Tree! Most recently, it was home to SC's first ever poet laurite, Archibald Rutledge, who wrote about his life here in the rural Lowcountry. Combine a trip here with a hike in Francis Marion National Forest, named for the Revolutionary War General on which the movie "The Patriot" is based. Finally, you can stop by the historic Lowcountry town of McClellanville, which boasts the best shrimp in the country!