The Ultimate Guide To Charleston, South Carolina

The Battery: Historic area filled with gorgeous, historic homes along the waterfront.

Waterfront Park/Pineapple Fountain/Rainbow Row: Start at Waterfront Park/Pineapple Fountain. Then make your way to Rainbow Row. From Rainbow Row, walk along the water and see all the houses in the Battery. You can walk this entire area easily.

Charleston City Market: Old-school "farmer's market" type spot in the downtown area. Lots of food stands and cute handcrafted gifts.

King Street: King Street is lined with shops and restaurants. It’s great for a day of shopping (Sewing Down South is located on King Street if you’re a “Southern Charm” " fan).

Ghost Tour: Charleston is a very historic city, making a ghost tour a fun way to learn more about the “haunted” parts of the city.

Mt. Pleasant/Shem Creek: Cute little area over the Ravenel bridge. Shem Creek is right on the water and has great restaurants/bars (Tavern & Table, Red's, Saltwater Cowboy).

Angel Oak Tree: The oldest/largest oak tree (400–500 years old).

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 make a day of it. A block from the beach is a variety of great restaurants and bars.

Babas on Cannon: My favorite coffee shop in Charleston. Located in the Cannonborough Elliotborough neighborhood, it’s the perfect spot for a coffee or quick breakfast. If you like iced coffee, be sure to try their “Very Cold Coffee”. It’s not on the menu anymore, but they’ll still make it. They also serve cocktails in the evening.

Harken Cafe: Quaint coffee/breakfast spot, right in the heart of Downtown. It’s classic Charleston.

The Obstinate Daughter: Located on Sullivan's Island and great for brunch or dinner. 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: Located in Shem Creek. Great spot on the water and offers lots of sharable options as well.

Rodney Scott’s BBQ: As seen on Anthony Bourdain’s “Parts Unknown”. Be sure to get their famous whole hog!

Chubby Fish: One of the best spots in Charleston. Unique and fresh fish dishes. They don’t take reservations, so get there right when they open at 5p. Or get there a little later, put your name down, and grab drinks in the area (just be prepared to wait a few hours). You'll want to order everything on the menu.

167 Raw: Another one of the top spots in Charleston. They don’t take reservations, so try and get there when they open or go on a weeknight.

Maison: Cute French spot and home to one of the best burgers you’ll ever have (only served on Wednesdays!)

Hall’s ChopHouse: Hands down, one of my top 3 restaurants in Charleston. The restaurant is family-owned, so there’s a warm, welcoming feeling the second you walk in. The staff constantly comes by each table to ensure you’re having a perfect time. It’s the epitome of southern hospitality. Oh, and the food is amazing too. They have Gospel Brunch on Sundays — a super fun experience.

Sorelle: Southern twist in Italian food, right in the heart of downtown. One of the best restaurants in Charleston. Definitely make a reservation well in advance!