Curator’s statement
Visiting Charleston feels like stepping into a charming blend of history and Southern elegance. The city’s streets are lined with graceful architecture, from grand old homes to colorful facades, all set against the backdrop of lush, tree-lined streets and peaceful waterways. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, inviting you to wander at your own pace and soak in the rich cultural heritage that flows through every corner. From delicious Southern fare to the warmth of the locals, Charleston offers an unforgettable experience that perfectly balances old-world charm with modern-day comfort. It’s a place that makes you feel both connected to the past and inspired by the present.
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Things to do in Charleston
Riley Waterfront Park: Riley Waterfront Park is a peaceful urban oasis featuring lush gardens, scenic views of the harbor and iconic fountains, making it the perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
Rainbow Row: Rainbow Row is a picturesque stretch of brightly colored historic homes, offering a charming glimpse into the city's colonial past and vibrant architectural style.
Angel Oak: The Angel Oak is a majestic Southern live oak tree, estimated to be over 400 years old, offering visitors an awe-inspiring view of one of the oldest living things in the country.
City Market: The Charleston City Market is a bustling historic marketplace offering a vibrant mix of local crafts, gourmet foods and unique souvenirs, all set within charming, centuries-old buildings.
Carriage Ride: A carriage ride through Charleston provides a charming and leisurely way to explore the city's historic streets, with knowledgeable guides sharing captivating stories of its past while you take in the stunning architecture and scenery.
The Battery: The Battery is a scenic promenade lined with historic homes and cannons, offering stunning views of the harbor and a glimpse into the city's military past.
Magnolia Plantation: Magnolia Plantation is a historic site known for its beautiful gardens, rich history and wildlife-filled landscapes, offering visitors a serene and immersive look into the region's past.
South Carolina Aquarium: The South Carolina Aquarium offers an engaging experience, showcasing the diverse marine life of the state through interactive exhibits and breathtaking views of the coastline.
Folly Beach: Folly Beach is a laid-back coastal retreat known for its pristine sandy shores, vibrant local scene and charming beach-town vibe, making it a perfect escape for relaxation and adventure.
Middleton Place: Middleton Place is a historic plantation known for its beautifully preserved gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with stunning landscapes, rich history and a glimpse of Southern heritage.
Places to eat & drink in Charleston
Restaurants
Southbound: Southbound Restaurant offers a vibrant dining experience with a creative menu that blends Southern flavors with global influences, all served in a stylish, contemporary setting.
Park and Grove: Park and Grove is a charming neighborhood restaurant known for its seasonal Southern-inspired menu, warm ambiance and focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Church and Union: Church and Union is a sophisticated restaurant offering a contemporary take on classic American dishes, set in a beautifully restored historic space with an elegant, inviting atmosphere.
Establishment: Establishment is an upscale, modern restaurant that blends Southern flavors with contemporary twists, offering a refined dining experience in a stylish, rustic-chic setting.
The Darling Oyster Bar: The Darling Oyster Bar offers a lively, coastal dining experience with fresh oysters, seafood dishes and a chic, nautical-inspired atmosphere perfect for enjoying a taste of the Lowcountry.
Coffee shops
Clerks Coffee: Clerks Coffee Co. is a cozy neighborhood café known for its expertly brewed coffee, welcoming ambiance and commitment to quality, making it a perfect spot for coffee lovers to relax and recharge.
The Black Door Cafe: The Black Door Café offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with expertly crafted coffee and delicious pastries, making it a perfect spot for a cozy break in the heart of the city.
Second State Coffee: Second State Coffee is a vibrant, community-focused café known for its meticulously sourced coffee and inviting atmosphere, perfect for both coffee aficionados and casual sippers alike.
Mercantile and Mash: Mercantile and Mash is a stylish, eclectic eatery that combines a modern market, craft coffee and a cozy restaurant, offering delicious Southern-inspired dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
Sightsee Shop: Sightsee Coffee Shop offers a cozy, vibrant space where locals and visitors alike can enjoy expertly brewed coffee while soaking in the laid-back charm of the city.
Travel Advisor
Emily Bissette
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Charleston page.