Charleston has just the right blend of big city and small town. Downtown’s historic buildings and cobblestone streets are reminiscent of Boston, but the residents give off a warm aura that screams, “Welcome!” The Charleston region includes several nearby towns, giving the area a diverse quality.
Sightseeing
The streets of downtown Charleston are a sight to behold in themselves. The historic architecture of the homes and churches is breath-taking. In the Charleston area, there are almost a dozen plantation homes that are perfect for visiting during a clear day. Many of the older plantations are kept up with loving particularity. Some feature gorgeous gardens that will transport you to the 19th century.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston
Boone Hall Plantation, 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasnt
Rice Hope Plantation, 206 Rice Hope Drive, Moncks Corner
Shopping
Downtown Charleston features dozens of shops perfect for a sunny day. The most hardcore shopper will find herself breathless while looking down the abyss that is King Street. There are almost too many stores to visit than there is time in a day. Antique nuts will also find an abundance of shops to peruse during a visit to the Charleston area.
George C. Birlant & Co. Antiques, 191 King Street, Charleston
Tanger Outlet Stores, North Charleston
Boomer’s Books & Collectibles, 420 King Street, Charleston
Food
Before visiting Charleston, clean your palette and prepare yourself for tasty indulgences that you’ll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. A common joke between locals is that if you decide to move to Charleston, prepare yourself to gain twenty pounds—the food is that good. From fine dining to inexpensive delis, this city’s got you covered.
Cypress, 167 E Bay Street #200, Charleston
82 Queen, 82 Queen Street, Charleston
Sunrays Dogs & Deli, 616 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant
Drink
Walking around downtown Charleston can get tiring . . . tiring enough to warrant a couple of drinks. And there is no better place to stop for a few cocktails than Charleston. The bars are as dense in the downtown area as the shops are, so picking and choosing where to stop will be the most trying decision you’ll have to make.
Cumberland’s Pub & Grill, 301 King Street, Charleston
Gene’s Haufbrau, 817 Savannah Highway, Charleston
Mad River Bar & Grille, 32 N Market Street, Charleston
Beaches
There are several of beaches to choose from in the Charleston area. From downtown Charleston, each beach is fifteen to thirty minutes away, making it easy for you to slip into your swimsuit and enjoy the clear waters of South Carolina’s coastal waters. It’s necessary that you work on your tan while in Charleston—how else will you blend in with the locals?
Isle of Palms Beach
Folly Beach
Sullivan’s Island Beach
The Arts
Charleston’s culture vibrates with an appreciation for the arts. It only makes sense that there are numerous theatres, art galleries, and centers in the area. If you’re an art lover, set aside some time to visit some galleries or take in a show.
Sottile Theatre, 44 George Street, Charleston
Lowcountry Studio, 25 River Reach Way, Charleston
Jim Booth Art Gallery, 1929 Maybank Highway, James Island
Events
Charleston hosts various events annually that play off the city’s heritage as well as the rich art community. The most popular events are ChazzFest, a festival honoring the roots of Jazz as they sprung up in Charleston and the Spoleto Festival, another big crowd pleaser, giving the art community a chance to thrive. Be sure to check out the events that are going on during your visit in local magazines such as Charleston City Paper and Graffiti.
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