Charleston is one of the best vacation secrets in the country. The city is filled with history, secret gardens, classical architecture, and some of the oldest plantations in America. Yet it has managed to reinvent itself still into a world class vacation destination. The city has been revitalized especially the area called “Upper King,” which offers trendy vacation spots like restaurants, creative cocktail bars, and new luxury hotels.
From transportation to hotels, our travel guide is a great place to start.
Travel Tips
If you’re planning a visit to Charleston, there are a few things to know. The best to visit Charleston is in fall or the spring. It’s the only way to avoid winter weather and the high humidity of the summer (not to mention the mosquitoes). The city is booming, so try to make reservations where you can, especially if you want to experience the trendiest restaurants. And most of Charleston’s lower peninsula can be experienced on foot, but if you’re traveling beyond a car service is a great idea.
Things to Do in Charleston
From downtown Charleston to the beaches at Folly Beach and Kiawah, there’s plenty to do in Charleston. Walking tours have become a popular way to explore Charleston’s picturesque cobblestone streets. Charleston is a tourist town and popular activities include shopping at the Charleston City Market, The Commodore Jazz club, strolling along The Battery, and cemetery tours.
Check out more things to do in Charleston!
Places to Stay in Charleston
Where to stay in Charleston depends on what sort of trip you’re looking to plan. Downtown hotels offer charm and culture (and ease), there’s more all inclusive resorts on Kiawah, Mount Pleasant suburbs, or take a short 20 minute drive to Isle of the Palms and reserve a family-friendly vacation rental through Beachside Vacations.
Check out these and more of the best resorts in Charleston
Places to Eat in Charleston
Charleston has become a food city with a great lineup of restaurants that can satisfy any appetite. Some of the trendiest restaurants include Husk, FIG, and The Ordinary. Specialty places to grab a bite include Artisan Meat Share, Xiao Bao Biscuit, or the retro Parlor Deluxe, an ice cream and hot dog restaurant.
Find out more about the best places to eat in Charleston
Landmarks in Charleston
Charleston is full of famous and historic landmarks. Landmarks include Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter, Fort Moultrie, South Carolina Historical Society, Magnolia Cemetery, Morris Island Lighthouse, and antebellum mansions. Historic homes include The Nathaniel Russell House, Drayton Hall and Magnolia Plantation & Gardens .
Annual Events in Charleston
Between its thriving arts and festival scene, there’s always something fun to do in Charleston. Let the vacation planning begin! The SEWE wildlife festival, Charleston’s annual Wine + Food Festival, and Spoleto are just a few of the biggest events in Charleston.
Check out more upcoming events in Charleston
Need a ride in Charleston? A RideGCT chauffeured car services is the best way to get around Charleston.