As one of the nation's oldest public markets, the historic Charleston City Market plays a leading role in the preservation time-treasured customs and vibrant American history. Being the cultural heart of the Holy City, it's surrounding neighborhood is filled with fabulous hotels, restaurants, walking and carriage tours, and specialty shops.
Located in Marion Square in the heart of Historic District in Downtown Charleston, SC, the CFM is open each Saturday, from April 9th through November 26th, 8 AM to 2 PM. The CFM is dedicated to the support and advocacy of Lowcountry farmers, growers, prepared/packaged food, artisans, crafters, live performers and community groups of all kinds. They offer a variety of local produce, plants, herbs and cut flowers as well as breakfast and lunch vendors, live entertainment and an assortment of juried arts and crafts from local artisans.
Completed in 1771, The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon is South Carolina's most historic building. After the British captured the city in 1780, it was used as a barracks, and its basement a military prison. Soon after taking control of Charleston, the British started housing prisoners in the Exchange, however not exclusively in the "dungeon". In 1788, the ratification of the United States Constitution was held here and the building continued as an Exchange until the 19th century, when it also became a post office. In the American Civil War, the building remained a Confederate post office, but was hit by several shells during the war, and thus abandoned. In 1913 the building was granted to the Daughters of the American Revolution, who have preserved it ever since. Today, there is documentation of at least 120 prisoners that were held in the Exchange, but there were many more whose identities could not be discovered.
Fort Sumter National Monument incorporates several sites around Charleston Harbor, which tell the unique stories of the people and places that shaped the United States of America. Confederate forces fired the first shots of the Civil War upon Federal troops at Fort Sumter at 4:30 a.m. on April 12, 1861. The roots of that conflict are buried deep within the stories of the development of the United States. Fort Sumter would continue to serve as the focal point in Charleston throughout the Civil War. From self-guiding to ranger-led tours, opportunities to learn about Fort Sumter are available for visitors of all ages!
Patriots Point, on the Charleston Harbor in Mount Pleasant, SC, is the home of Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum and a fleet of National Historic Landmark ships, including the World War II aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, which is the centerpiece of the museum. Today, the Naval and Maritime Museum strives to preserve the living history of our nation's bravest men and women while telling their stories in honorable, educational and engaging ways.
Palmetto Carriage Works is the oldest carriage tour company in Charleston with some of the most experienced personnel in the Charleston carriage industry. Family owned and operated company since 1972, PCW has fine-tuned every aspect of a carriage ride experience while providing authentic and historically rich carriage tours. The animals are specifically trained and well equipped to handle carriage tours in the city and PCW prides themselves on the quality of care given to working animals. With over 40 horses and mules at the barn downtown and at their farm on John’s Island, Palmetto Carriage Works has an excellent animal care record and takes pride in the services provided to the animals.
Since 1976, Poogan's Porch has been tucked away in a beautifully restored 1880's Victorian House on charming Queen Street. As one of Charleston's oldest independent culinary establishments, it's fresh approach to Lowcountry cuisine has been recognized by Martha Stewart Living, Wine Spectator and The Travel Channel and is the perfect southern spot for lunch, dinner or weekend brunch.
Housed in a lovingly restored, 115-year-old storefront, The Darling Oyster Bar is an energetic restaurant where fresh seafood is the star of the show. Blending classical preparations and exciting new flavors, The Darling pays careful attention to local ingredients and sustainability.
Cru Cafe, located in a charming, old yellow house with a patio, is ranked as one of Charleston's top eateries, has been offering up a delicious gourmet twist to comfort food for more than two decades. Alongside it's older sister, the award-winning catering division Cru Catering, Cru Cafe is one of Charleston's most delicious hidden gems and receives accolades and write-ups yearly. With an intimate dining room, Cru books up fast, so make your reservations in advance. Ask to be seated at the Chef's Table for some added to fun!
Founded in 2005 with the goal of making the tender, buttery, made-by-hand biscuits of her mother accessible across the country, Carrie Morey and her small team of bakers are keeping the tradition of Southern biscuit making alive. Touted by Saveur, Food & Wine, Southern Living, The New York Times and Oprah, Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit is the perfect way to start your day.
The crown jewel in a city known for its steepled skyline and sea-skimming views, The Dewberry’s 8th floor terrace features the highest rooftop in Charleston. Home to this top-rated hotel’s whimsical rooftop lounge, Citrus Club features citrus-inspired cocktails and fresh lite bites.