Charleston’s Spoleto Festival USA Performance Highlights
For 17 days, it’s all about the arts here in Charleston. The annual Spoleto Festival USA brings to Charleston some of the best in theater, music, dance, opera and more from May 24 to June 9. The festival was founded in 1977 as the American counterpart to the annual Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, […]
Fun Things to Do in Summerville SC – Eat and Experience
Enjoy a little bit of small town living and experience fun things to do in Summerville, SC – a short drive from downtown Charleston. The town has history, dining, attractions and events so Charleston area visitors can easily spend a day soaking up the sights in what’s known as “Flowertown in the Pines.” Brief History […]
12 Free or Low-Cost Ways to See the Sights of Charleston
By Holly Fisher Whether you love history, nature or beautiful water views, it’s easy to find plenty to do in Charleston. The good news is there are some terrific attractions and activities that won’t bust your vacation budget. We’ve put together a list of 12 free or low-cost things to do around the Charleston area. Riverfront Park sits on the bank of the Cooper River […]
Where to Go for Great Seafood in Charleston
By Barry Waldman Any restaurant in Charleston that purports to serve Lowcountry fare has to have good seafood dishes on the menu. In a culinary jewel like Charleston, nearly any seafood or Lowcountry restaurant that’s not a national chain will delight your taste buds – or it won’t stick around. Erin Perkins, editor of Eater […]
Charleston is a Tasty Spot for Lowcountry Oysters
By Barry Waldman In clusters at an oyster roast or as an appetizer on the half shell; fried, steamed, roasted, grilled, broiled, smoked or baked; soaked in lemon juice or bathed in mignonette sauce; cooked up in a stew or a soup – Charlestonians love their oysters. And not just any oysters, but Lowcountry oysters, […]
Uniquely Charleston: Things to Do in Charleston and Nowhere Else
By Bailey Laskowski Charleston is truly a special city. Consistently ranked on lists of the best places to visit, Charleston stands in a class all her own. You’ve come to the right place for a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Visit these attractions and landmarks that are unique to Charleston. Be sure to take some photos – […]
Enjoy All North Charleston Has to Offer
North Charleston is a diverse community of small businesses, community events and family friendly fun. Just a short drive from historic downtown Charleston, the City of North Charleston welcomes visitors to the Lowcountry eager to soak up that southern charm. Make time to visit North Charleston for shopping, culture, great food and even better company. […]
Best Places to Grab a Coffee Around Charleston
Whether you need an afternoon pick-me-up after a busy day of sightseeing or you simply want to relax with a morning latte in the heart of downtown Charleston, there are plenty of great choices. The Charleston area has some delicious local coffee shops that make a mean mocha and serve up locally made pastries, muffins […]
Pick Your Fall Charleston Outdoor Adventure
As we move into Charleston’s fall season, it’s truly the best time to plan an outdoor adventure. The temperatures are cooler, and there’s a crispness in the air just begging you to spend some quality time in nature. Ben-Jamin Toy of Nature Adventures on Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant says this is one of his […]
Your Charleston, SC, Summer Bucket List
How much fun can you pack into one summertime visit to Charleston? Take advantage of all Charleston has to offer from seaside fun and water views to adventure and exploring. We’ve put together a few must-do items for a memorable summer in Charleston. Get creative in the sand Beach lovers of all ages can’t resist […]
On Tap: Charleston’s Brewery District Offers Wide Selection of Local Craft Brews
Charleston’s beer scene is creating quite a name for itself. With 25 breweries around the Charleston region, you’ll find a wide variety of unique beer flavors and brewing processes. Almost every brewery in Charleston offers flights and beer tastings so you can find your favorites while enjoying a beautiful summer day in the Holy City. […]
Dinner with a View: Rooftop Dining in Charleston
Charleston is known for her spectacular skyline. From the diamond spans of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge over the Cooper River to sunsets on the water to church steeples dotting the horizon, this city is postcard worthy. To get a bird’s eye view of these breathtaking views, we’ve selected our top picks for outdoor dining/drinks […]
The Ultimate Guide to Springtime in Charleston
Well-known Southern author Pat Conroy was always so elegant in his descriptions of Charleston. In writing the foreword for “The Mayor,” a biography of former Charleston Mayor Joe Riley, Conroy expressed what so many people feel when they visit here: “There is no city on Earth quite like Charleston.” Conroy wrote, “From the time I […]
Capture Vacation Memories at The Most Picturesque Spots In Charleston
Some of the best photography circulating through the world today has been captured in our beloved Holy City. In fact, it may have been a stunning photo of Charleston that prompted you to book a flight, pack your suitcase and head for our photogenic city. We’ve compiled a list of some of Charleston’s most beautiful […]
Explore the Markets Around Charleston for Food, Crafts
Shop local during your Charleston vacation. Local markets are a great place to find locally made gifts and crafts and tasty eats while getting a true sense of the local community. Charleston Farmers Market – Each Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. from April 14 to Nov. 24 in Marion Square, downtown Charleston. Check […]
March | Things to Do in Charleston, SC
Already three months into 2018 – time in Charleston just flies by. Surrounded by beauty and culture can make you lose track of time. Luckily, here at Traveler of Charleston we like to make it easy for you by compiling a list of some of the most anticipated Charleston events in March. Pick your favorites […]
February | Things to Do in Charleston, SC
A month full of love and fun, February is one of the best times of the year to visit Charleston. New restaurants and coffee shops are constantly popping up throughout our beloved city, offering different tastes and experiences. There are plenty of events to keep you busy this month, including the much-anticipated Southeastern Wildlife Exposition. […]
Fun Winter Activities in Charleston
By Bailey Laskowski Too cold for the beach? No problem, there are plenty of things to do around Charleston during cooler weather. So, grab your jacket and check out some of these wintertime favorites for an unforgettable time in the Holy City. Stare at the sea turtles Everyone loves sea turtles and they are a […]
Charleston Sites, Attractions Offer Detailed History of African-American Heritage
As director of The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, Tony Youmans remembers when visitors to Charleston cringed at the mention of slavery. It was an ugly part of American history many people didn’t want to discuss. In the last several years, more attractions and museums have started to address the issue of slavery head on […]
2017 Charleston Holiday Gift Guide
Take advantage of your next visit to Charleston to do some holiday shopping . We’ve selected a few favorites for our 2017 Holiday Gift Guide we think would make great presents. And be sure to pick up a little something for yourself! Need more inspiration? Read our blog post on 10 Distinctively Charleston Holiday Gifts. Clean-cooking […]
Southern Classics on the Menu at these Charleston Restaurants
By Bailey Laskowski It’s that time of year – pumpkin spice lattes and holiday comfort food. When you’re looking for some real Southern cooking, Charleston welcomes you with open arms. The city prides itself on good cookin’ and Southern hospitality. Good news: this list gives you a sneak peek into the best Charleston area restaurants […]
All Eyes on the Sky: Solar Eclipse to Pass Over Charleston
Just when we thought being in Charleston couldn’t get any better, it’s now one of the best places to view the solar eclipse happening on Monday, Aug. 21. The first total solar eclipse to sweep across the entire United States – coast to coast – since 1918 will enter the country crossing Oregon and will […]
Best Places for Avocado Toast Around Charleston
by Morgan Foley Avocado toast has fast become one of the most popular items on almost every breakfast and brunch menu in the Charleston, S.C., area. This smashed (or sliced) avocado on whole grain bread with a dash of olive oil and sea salt just might be the best thing since sliced bread. If you […]
5 Small Businesses to Visit on Your Next Trip to Charleston
by Amalee Brown Charleston visitors have their favorite spots to visit, and newcomers frequently flock to places like Waterfront Park, The Battery and King Street. These hotspots are undoubtedly beautiful and interesting, but if you really want to get a feel for the heart and soul of Charleston, head to one of the local neighborhoods. […]
Off the Beaten Path: 5 Charleston Restaurants to Try
Article & photos by Abby Tierney It’s no secret Charleston, S.C., is known for its “foodie” scene. One of the biggest mistakes people make when they visit, however, is limiting their vacation eats to the classic, better-known restaurants located in the King Street and South of Broad areas. What most don’t know is that some […]
Cool Off at These Charleston Hot Spots
There’s no denying Charleston summers are h-o-t. But thanks to some indoor attractions and cooling ocean breezes, you can enjoy Charleston without breaking a sweat. Family Activities The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry offers a variety of exhibits for young visitors, including water stations, an arts and crafts center, a medieval castle and a pirate […]
Bring on the Charleston Brunch at these 9 Tasty Spots
By Bailey Laskowski Quite possibly everyone’s favorite meal of the week is brunch. It combines the deliciousness of breakfast foods with the lazy mornings of a relaxing weekend. While you’re visiting the Charleston area, make time for a weekend brunch at one of our terrific restaurants. To get you started, we’ve compiled a list of […]
Turtles Take the Stage at New Recovery Exhibit
Sea Turtle Care Center Manager Willow Melamet was beaming. The team at the South Carolina Aquarium had just completed major surgery on an adult female sea turtle – and aquarium visitors were watching live. It was all thanks to the brand-new Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery area of the aquarium. Sea Turtle Recovery walks visitors […]
5 Great Charleston Golf Courses
Sure, people visit Charleston for her history, architecture, fine dining and beaches. But plenty of folks visit armed with their golf clubs and ready to tackle some of the country’s best golf courses. Charleston has long been a golfing city. In fact, Charleston lays claim to the first golf club when Scottish merchants formed the S.C. […]
Traveler of Charleston’s Summer Reading Guide 2017
If your idea of summer relaxation includes a juicy page-turner, you’re in luck. And, if you love Southern authors and stories, you’ve hit the jackpot with these new books – hitting the stores and online booksellers just in time for your Charleston beach vacation. Check out our recommendations for great summer reads: Beach House for […]
Explore Charleston Area’s Natural Beauty, Wildlife
Most visitors know Charleston has amazing architecture, historic homes, incredible restaurants and a vibrant shopping district. But what they may not realize are the spectacular natural forests, parks and activities that showcase the area’s coastal environment and natural resources. While you’re visiting, put an eco-tour, outdoor adventure or nature hike on your list of things […]
Charleston Named Best City in the South
Gosh, y’all, it’s another award for Charleston. Today, Southern Living magazine named Charleston the Best City in the South for 2017. The magazine writes: Charleston is having a moment. Again. Nearly 400 years after a group of enterprising colonists settled the jewel of the Lowcountry, the Holy City continues to cast its spell on visitors […]
5 Must-Do Spring Activities in Charleston, SC
Spring came early to Charleston this year with a mild winter and plenty of sunshine. But that doesn’t mean we’re done celebrating the season. There’s so much to do this time of the year that we need an extended spring season to make it through our list. Here are five of our favorite spring activities: […]
Camellias are Charleston’s Wintertime Blooming Beauties
One of benefits of Charleston’s mild winters is the blooms that add a pop of color to the season and serve as a sign that spring is coming. The camellias, in particular, come to life in the winter. Look for them in bloom in parks and gardens around town or take a camellia walk at […]
Satisfy Any Craving at These 10 Charleston Restaurants
By Helen Mitternight White tablecloths or butcher paper – you can dine high or low in the Charleston area. Here are 10 places that satisfy any appetite. Downtown Charleston Peninsula Grill: The entry makes you feel like at last you get to wander into one of those courtyards you’ve glimpsed past wrought iron in the […]
12 Free, Low-Cost Ways to See Charleston, SC
Whether you love history, nature or beautiful water views, it’s easy to find plenty to do in Charleston. The good news is there are some terrific attractions and activities that won’t bust your vacation budget. We’ve put together a list of 12 free or very low-cost things to do around the Charleston area. Riverfront Park […]
Newly Released Cookbook Features Distinctly Charleston Recipes
For decades Southern cooks – both professional and amateur – have relied on recipes from the “Charleston Receipts” cookbook. It has been a staple in many a kitchen cookbook collection. Now, The Junior League of Charleston has republished a little red cookbook called “Charleston Recipes.” First published in 1949, it pre-dates the famed “Charleston Receipts.” […]
History Abounds on Charleston’s Museum Mile
Immerse yourself in Charleston’s history along the Museum Mile. This 1-mile section around Meeting Street is home to six museums, five historic homes, four parks and a number of churches and public buildings – all of which are significant to Charleston’s past. During the month of January, you can purchase a Museum Mile Month pass […]
Why Choose Sustainable Seafood in Charleston
On your visit to Charleston, you won’t want to pass up the chance to dine on fresh seafood. But be warned, not every seafood restaurant in town serves local or sustainable seafood. The South Carolina Aquarium, which promotes sustainable seafood, suggests you ask before you order when dining out or purchasing seafood from a grocery […]
Order Oysters at These 6 Charleston Restaurants
A favorite culinary time has arrived: oyster season. Order a platter of oysters – raw, steamed or fried – at one of these Charleston restaurants with a reputation for out-of-this-world oysters. Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar: This renovated space reflects the beautiful, original 1800s architecture in a comfortable, contemporary indoor and outdoor dining space. […]
Charleston Recipe: Praline Cookies
Perfect for the holiday season! These praline cookies will have your guests dreaming of Charleston with every delicious bite. Praline Cookies Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter 1 cup medium brown sugar 1 egg, well beaten 1 tablespoon vanilla 1 cup pecan halves 2 tablespoons flour Directions: Melt butter and blend in sugar, add egg, nuts, flour […]
10 Distinctively Charleston Holiday Gifts
A visit to Charleston is the perfect time to do some holiday shopping for friends and family. Choose from specialty food items, arts and crafts, jewelry and other items completely unique to Charleston. We’ve selected a few favorites for our Holiday Gift Guide we think would make great presents. And be sure to pick up […]
Survey Says: Charleston Best Small City in U.S.
More than 159,000 of Condé Nast Traveler readers rated their favorite cities in the United States. Guess which city was voted the Best Small City in the U.S.? Yep, Charleston. The award noted: With its beautiful gardens, vibrantly painted Georgian houses along Rainbow Row, and carriages clacking across cobblestone streets, Charleston remains one of the […]
The Traveler 20: Epic Places to Try Now in Charleston
By Helen Mitternight Charleston has plenty of traditional Lowcountry restaurants, but sometimes you just want to eat where the locals do. Here are 20 places Charleston locals love. Downtown The Immortal Lobster: It’s not the cheapest food truck, but Immortal Lobster, which parks for lunch nearly every day in the parking lot of Blue Bicycle Books, […]
In the Fall, Charleston Fishing is at its Finest
Cooler weather combined with lots of hungry fish make fall an ideal time to go fishing here in Charleston. Capt. Joel LeVine, owner of RedFin Charters, said he wants visitors to know fishing season isn’t over in the fall. In fact, visitors booking an in-shore fishing charter have excellent odds of catching plenty of fish […]
Charleston Home to Smokin’ Good Barbecue
South Carolinians are nothing if not passionate about their barbecue. Go ahead, ask some locals, and they won’t hesitate to share their favorite barbecue joint. Here in the South, it’s all about pork that has been cooked low and slow in a smoky pit. But that hasn’t stopped some brisket masters from coming into the […]
Best Seasonal Tours this Fall in Charleston
Whether you want to see gorgeous gardens, ghostly graveyards or historic homes decorated for the holidays, Charleston has it. This time of year is perfect for enjoying the cooler temperatures and strolling the streets of the Holy City on a home tour, ghost tour or holiday excursion. Get started with one of these seasonal tours. […]
Off the Path: 5 Places to Explore in the Charleston Area
When visiting a new city – or even an old favorite – it’s fun to get off the beaten path and see something entirely new. The Charleston area has plenty of hidden gems sprinkled throughout the Lowcountry – some you may have never heard of. These are some of our favorites: Edisto Island Serpentarium – […]
5 Things to Do in Charleston Over Labor Day Weekend
“By all these lovely tokens September days are here, With summer’s best of weather And autumn’s best of cheer.” – Helen Hunt Jackson, American poet Labor Day weekend signals the end of summer and the beginning of the fall season. Kids head back to school, summer vacations are memories and lazy days of lounging […]
20 Places to Dine in Charleston Now
By Angel Passailaigue Postell This is such a hard thing to do. Narrow down a list of places to go and dine in Charleston. That’s because this city is busting at the seams with options. Everything from casual flip-flop wearing dives to several over-the-top five-star service establishments. So, whether you are in the mood for […]
