Curator’s statement
Charleston, South Carolina, is my ABSOLUTE favorite city. A Charleston bachelorette party is perfect for the bride who loves food and some charm. Charleston has quickly become one of the most popular USA bachelorette party destinations, and there is something about its charm that makes it an ideal spot for brides. Charleston also has beautiful beaches, amazing food, fun bars and endless Instagram-worthy photo spots. It’s a great location if your group is looking for somewhere that’s a little slower pace.
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Things to do in Charleston
Shopping:
King Street - There are plenty of cute shops and boutiques to explore along King Street.
Sip and Shop - A fun experience if your bride is looking for a mix of shopping and drinking.
Beaches:
Sullivan's Island - If you're looking for a more "relaxing" vibe at the beach, be sure to check out Sullivan's Island. There are also a few bars and restaurants you can head to before or after your time on the beach.
Folly Beach - If you're planning to spend time at Folly Beach, you can definitely make a day of it. A block from the beach is a variety of great restaurants and bars.
Isle of Palms - One of the most popular beaches and arguably more lively than Sullivan's Island.
Exploring/Tours:
Rainbow Row - For one of the most "Instagram-able" locations, be sure to see the Rainbow Row houses. You can also walk a few blocks to Waterfront Park and take pictures of the Pineapple Fountain.
Carriage Tour - A great way to see the city is by going on a carriage tour. You'll learn about the history of Charleston and how Charleston got its "charm".
Ghost Tour - If your bride loves history or you're looking to add a little "spookiness" to your Charleston bachelorette party, be sure to take a ghost tour. You'll learn all about the most haunted areas of Charleston.
Boat Ride - One of the most popular Charleston bachelorette party events is renting a boat with a captain for the day. Charleston also offers tiki boats. Both are especially great for Summer bachelorette's and a perfect way to beat the heat.
Places to eat & drink in Charleston
The Obstinate Daughter - This restaurant is located on Sullivan's Island and offers a variety of great brunch items that are great for sharing. Be sure to try the Smash and Fried Potatoes, The Rutledge pizza and The Old Danger pizza. They have amazing cocktails too. Head here if you plan on spending time at the beach on Sullivan's Island. You can make reservations up to 2 weeks out, but they fill up fast!
Tavern and Table - If you’re headed to Shem Creek, definitely go to Tavern and Table for brunch/lunch. It’s a great spot on the water and offers lots of sharable options as well. Be sure to try the Crab and Artichoke Dip, Crispy Chicken Sandwich, and the Crab Cake BLT.
Leon’s Oyster Shop - Leon's is a Charleston staple with a menu featuring a variety of oysters, clams, shrimp and other seafood dishes, as well as a selection of classic southern sides. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft cocktails, beer, and wine to pair with your meal. Leon’s offers a charming atmosphere, with a bright and airy dining room decorated with vintage fixtures and wallpaper, plus a great outdoor patio space.
Church and Union - Church and Union is located in the heart of downtown Charleston. It’s a converted church with exposed brick walls and high ceilings, and offers a great atmosphere for dinner before a night out. Be sure to try the pimento cheese croquettes and the seared scallops. There are plenty of delicious cocktails as well.
Indaco - Indaco is a popular Italian restaurant located on King Street, specializing in contemporary Italian cuisine, with a menu that features a variety of dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The Bianca Pizza is a must.
Bourbon 'n Bubbles - Bourbon 'n Bubbles - is a bar and lounge located in downtown Charleston. If your bride is a “Southern Charm” and/or "Southern Hospitality" fan - this is the perfect dinner spot. It specializes in bourbon and champagne (hence the name), offering an extensive selection of both, as well as a variety of craft cocktails and wines. The menu also features a variety of small plates and appetizers, including oysters, charcuterie, and artisanal cheeses - perfect for sharing. This is the perfect dinner spot before a night out on King Street.
Callie’s Hot Biscuit - This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for something quick. You can order ahead to skip the line, and it’s a cost effective, yet delicious, option for breakfast. Known for their delicious, made-from-scratch biscuits, they offer a variety of biscuit flavors, from classic buttermilk and black pepper bacon to cinnamon and cheese and chive. They also offer a selection of sandwiches made with their signature biscuits.
Holey City Bagels - Located in Charleston’s Upper King Street district, Holey City Bagels is known for their freshly baked, New York-style bagels and coffee bar. Order ahead is sometimes not available, so be sure to plan accordingly. Their blueberry bagel is delicious.
Saltwater Cowboys (Shem Creek) - Another great spot for day drinking in Shem Creek.
Citrus Club - A fun rooftop bar with gorgeous views, on top of the Dewberry Hotel.
Republic - Another staple spot for a Charleston bachelorette party, especially if your bride is a “Southern Charm” and/or "Southern Hospitality" fan. Republic has more of a "club" vibe and offers bottle service, dancing, and an outdoor patio area. There is a dress code.
Uptown Social - There is often a long line, so be sure to get here on the earlier side. Uptown Social is a popular three-story bar on Upper King and includes a rooftop area. You can enjoy live music downstairs, and a DJ upstairs.
Blind Tiger Pub - If your bride loves history, be sure to go to add Blind Tiger Pub to your Charleston bachelorette party. Its alehouse dates back to the early 1800s and has a great outdoor area as well.
Need to know
Travel Advisor
Angela Hope
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Artemis Koutsogiorgas’s guide, The Perfect Itinerary for a Charleston Bachelorette Party.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Charleston.