Thanksgiving in Charleston is an unforgettable time of year to enjoy the city’s historical charm, stunning coastal views, and, of course, classic Southern hospitality. If you’re planning a trip to the Lowcountry for Thanksgiving, having a travel plan can help you avoid holiday stress and make the most of your time with family and friends. Here are some practical travel tips to help you navigate Charleston like a pro, from making dining reservations early to booking a car service for stress-free transportation.

Enjoy the Holidays with GCT’s 2024 Travel Guide

Book Your Transportation Early – Whether you’re flying or need a car in Charleston. Book all transportation (including airport car services) in advance.

Arrive CHS Airport Early – Thanksgiving is still one of the busiest travel times of the year, so arriving early at Charleston airport is key. Aim to be at the airport at least two hours before your domestic flight and three hours for international travel.

Pack Smart – Packing efficiently can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Since it’s Thanksgiving, if you’re carrying special food items, check TSA guidelines to avoid any hiccups during security checks.

Plan for Thanksgiving Traffic – If you’re driving into the city, plan to leave early or later in the evening to avoid peak travel times, especially on Wednesday before Thanksgiving. To make getting around easier once you’re in the city, consider booking a car service in Charleston.

Make Reservations for a Thanksgiving Dinner – Charleston’s dining scene is renowned, and Thanksgiving weekend brings in crowds eager to enjoy the city’s culinary offerings. Many restaurants offer special Thanksgiving menus featuring local favorites. For a traditional Southern Thanksgiving meal, check out restaurants like Husk, Magnolias, or High Cotton.

Enjoy Charleston’s November and Thanksgiving 2024 Events

Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to kick off the holiday season in Charleston. There are plenty of festive events and activities to enjoy, from the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park to the Charleston City Market’s holiday vendors.

  • Bourbon & Bluegrass: A Celebration Under the Stars at Middleton Place, November 9, 2024
  • Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park, November 15 – December 31, 2024
  • Charleston Classic (annual college basketball tournament) at the TD Arena, November 21-24, 2024
  • Christmas Tree Festival at Boone Hall Farms, November 23-24 2024
  • Charleston Thanksgiving Eve Bar Crawl at Élevé Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge, November 27, 2024
  • Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble at Marion Square, November 28, 2024

If you’re in Charleston for Thanksgiving 2024, consider booking a private leisure car service with GCT. This way, everyone can enjoy the festivities without the need for multiple vehicles or worrying about parking. GCT Chauffeured Services offers a wide range of travel options from luxury sedans to larger vehicles, ensuring your travel to and from CHS airport is as smooth as possible. With some thoughtful planning and the convenience of Charleston’s car services, your Thanksgiving trip can be relaxed, memorable, and full of Charleston charm. Happy Thanksgiving!