Wanderlust Series: Charleston, South Carolina

I’m taking the Wanderlust series stateside with a five day trip to trip to Charleston! Charleston is a charming city located in South Carolina, USA, with a rich history and beautiful architecture. If you’re planning a trip to Charleston, here’s what you need to know.

Charleston was founded in 1670 as Charles Town in honor of King Charles II of England. The city played a significant role in the American Revolution and the Civil War. Today, it is known for its well-preserved architecture, historic landmarks, and cultural heritage. The best time to visit Charleston is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot and humid, and winter can be chilly. The fall season is particularly beautiful, with colorful foliage and pleasant temperatures.

If you’re looking for the true southern, coastal experience, Charleston is the place to go. I recommend you stay at the Dewberry because of the amazing location. It’s a gorgeous hotel that mixes modern with old-world charm and has a rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the peninsula.

There are many things to see and do in Charleston. Here are some of the top attractions:

1. Visit the Historic District: Take a stroll through the historic district to see the beautiful architecture and historic landmarks. Some of the must-see attractions include the Charleston City Market, Rainbow Row, and the Battery.

2. Fort Sumter National Monument: Visit the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Take a boat tour to the island and explore the fort and museum.

3. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the history of the plantation. Take a guided tour of the house and gardens, or go on a nature walk to see the wildlife and flora.

4. Charleston City Market: Shop for local goods and souvenirs at this historic market. You can find everything from handmade crafts to sweetgrass baskets.

5. Charleston Waterfront Park: Enjoy beautiful views of the harbor and relax in the park. The park features fountains, gardens, and a pier where you can watch the boats go by.

Charleston is located on the coast of South Carolina, about 100 miles south of Myrtle Beach and 115 miles north of Savannah, Georgia. The city is situated on a peninsula between the Ashley and Cooper Rivers and is surrounded by barrier islands. With its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and charming atmosphere, Charleston is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the southeastern United States.

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Day 1:
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Daily, which offers fresh pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. Then, take a walking tour of downtown Charleston to see the historic homes and landmarks. A great option is the Charleston Strolls Walking Tour, which covers the Battery, Rainbow Row, and other notable sites. For lunch, head to 167 Raw, a popular spot known for its fresh seafood and raw bar. Spend the afternoon browsing the shops on King Street, where you’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques and vintage stores. Be sure to stop by Hampden Clothing for women’s clothing and GDC Home for antiques and home decor. For dinner, make a reservation at Chez Nous, a charming French restaurant that offers a rotating menu of seasonal dishes.

SKIRT | HAT | TOP | BAG | SHOES | LIP | SUNNIES | WALLET | EARRINGS

Day 2:
Start your day with breakfast at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit, a cozy spot that serves up warm, flaky biscuits in a variety of flavors. Then, spend the morning on the water with Charleston Harbor Tours, which offers a variety of boat tours that showcase the city’s stunning coastline and historic landmarks. For lunch, head to Magnolias for local cuisine and to cool off from the morning sun. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Charleston City Market, where you’ll find local vendors selling everything from sweetgrass baskets to handmade jewelry. In the late afternoon, head to the historic Charleston Place Hotel for afternoon tea at the Thoroughbred Club, a luxurious experience that includes tea, sandwiches, and pastries. For dinner, make a reservation at Le Farfalle, an Italian restaurant that offers handmade pasta and other regional dishes.

Day 3:
If you’re visiting on the weekend, make sure to go to brunch at High Cotton. Then spend the morning touring the historic homes along the Aiken-Rhett House. For lunch, head to Little Jack’s Tavern, a classic American restaurant that offers burgers, sandwiches, and other comfort food favorites. Spend the afternoon browsing the shops in the trendy Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, where you’ll find vintage boutiques, artisanal food shops, and more. Head to a new Spanish restaurant called Malagón, I have heard rave reviews of this place!

Day 4:
Start your day with breakfast at Hero Doughnuts and Buns, I would grab a few extra delicious treats for the beach! Then, spend the morning at Folly Beach, a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. You can rent chairs, umbrellas, and other beach gear from the shops along the main street. For lunch, head to Taco Boy for a delicious seaside meal. After the beach, head back to the hotel and get ready for dinner at FIG, a Charleston favorite that offers elevated takes on Southern classics with seasonal ingredients served in an upscale-bistro setting.

Day 5:
Have a great brunch at Toast! All day. This little cafe offers mimosas and delicious brunch before you head out to spend the afternoon exploring the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, a historic estate that features beautiful gardens, a plantation house, and a nature center. For your last dinner in Charleston, try Zero George Street for an intimate, romantic atmosphere and French-inspired cuisine.