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Charleston
The Holy City
Welcome to Lowcountry!
Why
The Why, When & How to visit...
Southern charm is in full swing in Charleston from the historic buildings to the lamp posts, cobblestone streets, and pineapples scattered throughout. Charleston is a great weekend getaway to enjoy some laid-back, good ole southern hospitality.
When
How
Charleston's airport (CHS) has direct flights from major cities across the US and is about a 20-30 minute drive from the center of town. Once there, the main area is very walkable. Biking, boating, and a carriage ride are other ways to get around and enjoy Charleston.
Temperatures are mostly mild throughout the year, except for the summer when temperatures reach high 80's F on average with a bit more rain. Spring is a nice time to visit before temperatures rise with flowers in bloom and a House & Garden Tour, along with a Jazz Festival.
Where
to stay...
1) The Dewberry - You know you've entered a really unique and special property, when you step inside The Dewberry. Built in 1964 as a federal office building, The Dewberry came to life in 2016 as a one-of-a-kind, mid-century modern hotel. The hotel is super inviting with a gorgeous Living Room/ lobby that doubles as a restaurant & bar with live music, morning coffee, and outdoor seating along the perimeter.
The outdoor space continues upstairs at the Citrus Club rooftop bar for a great view of the city. Rooms are luxe and cozy, vintage Paris meets southern charm. Amenities extend to the spa & fitness studio, access to luxury Volvo car service, bikes, and an extensive concierge program. For more information and the ability to book, click here.
2) The Mills House - The classic pink hotel in the French Quarter completed a full renovation and re-opened in late 2022 bringing new life to the 1850's building. The Mills House, now part of Hilton's Curio Collection, now has a more contemporary interior, while still complimenting its historic charm. The hotel has a new restaurant & bar and coffee shop, which combined with the outdoor terrace, courtyard, and lobby provide ample space to enjoy.
Highlights of the hotel are still the beautiful courtyard and outdoor pool refreshed with new seating and umbrellas. Rooms have a fresh, clean look highlighted with contemporary art and balconies. More details on the hotel, along with the ability to book is accessible here.
3) The Pinch - The Pinch opened in April 2022 at King & George Street in two historic Victorian buildings from the 1840's and 60's, alongside a newly constructed building. The Pinch is a smaller boutique hotel featuring only 22 luxury rooms, along with 3 residences for longer stays of 30+ days.
The hotel has a homey feel to it from the size to the layout and room design - very cool, vintage inspired. The hotel features two F&B options, including a cozy oyster & cocktail den and the other with a vibrant outdoor cobblestone courtyard. More details on the hotel, along with the ability to book is accessible here.
What
Do
to...
1) Enjoy a Carriage Ride - Probably the most popular thing to do in Charleston is take a horse-drawn carriage ride. The carriage rides are an hour long, depart from and return to a central location, and cover 30 blocks of central Charleston, providing a great way to get acclimated to the area. They are led by a certified guide, who provides a comprehensive summary of Charleston's 300+ years of history. Details and the ability to book through Viator is available here.
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2) Relax on a Boat Ride - Surrounded by water, taking a boat ride is a great way to see Charleston from a different perspective. A variety of boat ride options exist, but I narrowed it down to this 1.5 hour sailing cruise around Charleston Harbor on a classic tall ship Schooner. The boat departs near the Aquarium Wharf, easily accessible from town, with 3 times to choose from, and limits capacity to 50 passengers.
The trip goes by the historic Fort Sumter and impressive Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and provides the opportunity to spot dolphins from the water. For a smaller group experience, this 32' Catalina sailboat provides a 2.5 hour sailing, BYOB for up to 6 guests departing from the opposite end of Charleston with the same plus some additional sights. The boat can also be rented for a private sailing here.
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3) Indulge in a Food Tour - One of the best parts of visiting the South is the southern hospitality and indulging in the food. There are a variety of food tours in Charleston to choose from, all typically 2.5 hours and $95. I chose this one due to the reviews, pictures, and description run by a business that solely focused on culinary tours with a central meeting point and 4 start times to choose from.
The tour is led by a certified guide providing history of Charleston, while visiting 3-4 restaurants within walking distance for local Lowcountry bites in a small group. Details and the ability to book through Viator is available here.
Eat
Lowcountry bites like she crab soup, shrimp & grits, cornbread, fried green tomatoes, oysters, and BBQ. Sample a variety of Lowcountry food on this food tour.
Drink
Planters Punch, created at the local Planters Inn, is a local specialty cocktail containing dark rum, grenadine, pineapple juice and Angostura bitters. Also, sweet tea for a non-alcoholic option. *If of legal drinking age to drink responsibly
My favorite spots for enjoying drinks in Charleston, include the Citrus Club rooftop at The Dewberry and the delightfully pink champagne lounge - Camellias at Hotel Bennett (also serves weekend afternoon tea).
Wear
Pastel Preppy
Watch
The Notebook by
Nick Cassavetes
Listen
"You Can Have Charleston"
by Darius Rucker
Gift
Click here for Gift ideas