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March | Things to Do in Charleston, SC

Rooftop Dining, Charleston, SC

Already three months into 2024 – 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

Southeastern Wildlife Festival - Charleston

A month full of love and fun, February is one of the best times of the year to visit Charleston. There are plenty of events to keep you busy this month, including the much-anticipated Southeastern Wildlife Exposition. As the weather starts warming up, Charleston’s true form starts to shine. The early part of the year is […]

15 Must-Do Holiday Events in Charleston

Charleston Festival of Lights

Get ready to revel in the holiday spirit in the Holy City! Charleston is gearing up for a festive season filled with plays, concerts, and enchanting light displays.  To make your holiday planning even more delightful, we’ve curated a list of 15 standout events that capture the essence of the season. And for those seeking […]

👻 Experience the Spookiest Places in Charleston

Bulldog Tours Ghost Tour

If anyone knows what’s happens in Charleston after dark, it’s Randy Johnson. A tour guide with Bulldog Tours, Johnson leads visitors on ghost tours through the Old City Jail, past graveyards and along the city’s spookiest alleyways. “When people come to the city, I tell them, ‘Do yourself a favor and take time at night […]

Ultimate Guide to Family Fun in Charleston SC

family fun in charleston sc - barrier island eco tours

Are you looking for the perfect family vacation to Charleston, South Carolina? Look no further! With its rich history and culture, as well as incredible outdoor activities, Charleston is the ideal destination for a fun-filled getaway with kids (toddlers to teens). Whether you’re bringing your kids along or not, you’ll be impressed by all this […]

Get Close at One of Charleston’s Romantic Spots

Morris Island at Folly Beach, SC

Charleston is becoming the city of romance. Maybe it’s the cobblestone streets, cozy inns, candlelight dinners or sunsets on the water … whatever it is, this city has plenty of romance. Travel + Leisure ranked Charleston No. 1 on its list of America’s Most Romantic Cities. It’s not hard to fall under the city’s spell. […]

Your Guide to Charleston’s Beaches

charleston sc beach guide - sullivans island

No summertime trip to Charleston is complete without a trip to one of the area’s beautiful beaches. Soak up the laid-back vibe of Folly Beach, the family friendly feel of Isle of Palms or the unspoiled ocean views at Sullivan’s Island. Each beach has its own character and appeal along with a selection of amenities […]

Charleston’s Craft Brewery Ultimate Drinking Guide

Charleston SC Breweries

Charleston’s reputation for a world-class culinary destination has spilled over into our pint glasses. In just the last few years, numerous craft breweries and distilleries have opened all over the area, giving locals and visitors a reason to raise their glass and toast the beverage artistry of Charleston. Breweries, distilleries and a local winery offer […]

💗In Love With Charleston: Experience Romance in the Holy City💗

romantic things to do charleston sc

By Holly Fisher   Romantic Things to Do in Charleston, SC With cobblestone streets, cozy inns, candlelight dinners and waterfront sunsets, it’s impossible not to fall in love while visiting Charleston. Romance is in high supply. So, whether you’re looking for a place to pop the question, tie the knot, celebrate a golden anniversary or […]

2019 Charleston Holiday Gift Guide

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 […]

Historical Things to Do in Charleston, SC

Fort Sumter, Charleston, SC

People come to Charleston for many reasons – architecture, food, beaches and cultural events. Yet one of the main draws for Charleston is her incredible past. From Colonial times to the Civil War, this city by the sea played a prominent role in the country’s history. The Charleston area has numerous museums and historical attractions […]

25+ Free Things to Do in Charleston SC

memorial waterfront park - mount pleasant

Whether you love history, nature, architecture, dining or shopping, you won’t have trouble finding things to do in Charleston. The good news is that there are some terrific attractions and activities that won’t bust your vacation budget. We’ve put together a list of 25 free things to do in Charleston. All activities are free unless […]

Fill Your Beach Bag with These Southern Summer Reads

Traveler of Charleston Summer Reading Guide

Compiled by Holly Fisher  If your idea of a perfect summer day involves a beach chair, sweet tea and a deliciously good book, you’re in luck. Some of our favorite Southern authors have new books you’ll want to toss in your beach bag because there’s nothing better than losing yourself in a good summertime story.  […]

Beat the Heat with These Cool Tours, Activities

Cocktails with a view: Enjoy an evening breeze and a sunset view at one of Charleston’s rooftop bars. Some cool spots include the Rooftop Cocktail Bar at the Vendue Inn near the picturesque Riley Waterfront Park; Pour Taproom at 560 King St. serving beer and wine samples; and The Watch: Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits serving great food and […]

5 Can’t Miss Experiences in North Charleston

Highwater Fest in North Charleston

No visit to the Lowcountry is complete without spending some time in North Charleston. Experience the beauty, culture and food of this vibrant city.    Attend a festival or event at Riverfront Park. The Spoleto Festival USA finale is on June 9, Slightly Stoopid is performing on June 23, and you don’t want to miss the view for […]

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

Charleston Tea Planation

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

oysters best restaurants in charleston sc

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, […]

Enjoy All North Charleston Has to Offer

Commonhouse Aleworks

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

cup of coffee

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

Nature Adventure Outfitters

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 […]

The Ultimate Guide to Springtime in Charleston

Charleston windowbox; Photo by Doug Hickok

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 […]

Explore the Markets Around Charleston for Food, Crafts

Charleston Farmers Market

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 […]

Charleston Sites, Attractions Offer Detailed History of African-American Heritage

McLeod Plantation

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

2017 Holiday Gift Guide - Charleston, SC

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 […]

The 6 Spookiest Places in Charleston

Ghost Dungeon Bulldog Tours

A city with this kind of deep history, colorful characters and abundance of dark alleys and church graveyards is bound to have a few ghosts – or at least some pretty great ghost stories. It’s fun to explore Charleston’s spooky side any time of the year, but fall is a particularly good time to hit […]

Things to Do with Your Dog Around Charleston

dog-friendly spots in Charleston, SC

By Bailey Laskowski Not every city fully appreciates that special bond between a dog and its owner. Fortunately, Charleston is a dog-loving town. We pride ourselves on opening our doors to welcome both the furry and non-furry visitor. Don’t hesitate to bring your dog along during your next Charleston adventure. To help you plan fun with […]

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

Harold's Cabin, Charleston, SC

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

charleston kayak tour

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 […]

Turtles Take the Stage at New Recovery Exhibit

South Carolina Aquarium

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 […]

Traveler of Charleston’s Summer Reading Guide 2017

Traveler of Charleston Summer Reading Guide

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

Nature Adventures kayaking

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 […]

Your Guide to Charleston Waterfront Dining

Shem Creek Shrimp Boats

By Barry Waldman Here in Charleston, dinner and a show means waterfront dining where your seafood platter and sweet tea are enjoyed with views of the beach, dolphins playing in the creek or the sun setting over the Cooper River. Here’s our guide to dining with a water view. Try some of these terrific restaurants […]

Recipe: Key Lime Pie

Key Lime Pie

A classic Southern dessert is key lime pie. There are plenty of Charleston restaurants that serve a mean slice of key lime pie. After you head home, savor the flavor of Charleston and make your own. Key Lime Pie Ingredients: 1 (14-oz.) can sweetened condensed milk 3 egg yolks 2 teaspoons lime zest 1/2 cup […]

Charleston Named Best City in the South

Rainbow Row in Charleston, SC

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

Top 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

Ravenel Bridge

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

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

Charleston Fish House

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 […]

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.

Charleston, South Carolina, USA skyline over Marion Square.

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 […]

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