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 […]
Your Charleston Summertime Bucket List
The Charleston area has so many attractions, activities, outdoor amenities and events it can be tough to narrow down your choices. Let’s prioritize. We’ve created a lineup of sizzlin’ summer activities for your own Charleston bucket list. Let us know which ones you do and what you would add to the list by sharing on […]
Charleston is Made for Family Fun
Charleston is often touted for its culinary creations, historical significance and breathtaking beauty. But, make no mistake, Charleston is also a wonderful destination for family fun. So if you’re visiting with tiny tots, energy filled tweens or texting teens, you’ll be able to find the perfect tour, adventure or nature-filled outing to make long-lasting family […]
As Seen on TV: Charleston Dining
Charleston’s dining scene is hot. Just about every food writer, publication and food-focused TV show has made a stop in one of the Holy City’s restaurants, sampling everything from hot dogs to chicken and waffles. Charleston has been featured on several shows, including the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” and “Best Thing I Ever […]
Charleston Shopping Guide
Take advantage of Charleston’s shopping centers, local boutiques and markets. Pick up handcrafted items for gifts and souvenirs. Downtown Charleston King Street is a shopper’s paradise lined with national retailers, locally owned boutiques with clothing, housewares and handmade items. If you’re in the market for rare finds, make your way down Lower King Street (south […]
‘A Lowcountry Wedding’ Among Best Summer Books
When I found out Charleston author Mary Alice Monroe was going to do one more book in her “Summer Girls” series, I almost jumped for joy. Last summer, I very slowly read the last couple chapters in “The Summer’s End,” not quite ready for this trilogy to come to a close. I was invested in […]
Visit Charleston’s Colonial Lake Park
One of Charleston’s most historic parks is back open after a major renovation. Already a lovely public space, this park is certainly on the must-visit list of Charleston landmarks. Colonial Lake is easily accessible at the intersection of Broad Street and Rutledge Avenue. Enjoy a stroll around the lake while admiring the 20,000 plants, trees […]
Where to Dine Outdoors in Charleston, SC
What happens when you combine Charleston’s gorgeous scenery with some of the best restaurants in the country? You get an al fresco dining experience that’s second to none. Take advantage of incredible surroundings and delicious eats at some of the area’s best rooftop bars, patios and open-air dining rooms. Here are some of our favorite […]
Charleston SC Things to Do in the Spring – Springtime Bucket List
Charleston SC Things to Do in the Spring The area provides a ton of Charleston SC things to do such as attractions, activities, outdoor amenities and events it can be tough to narrow down your choices. Let’s prioritize. We’ve created a lineup of springtime items for your own bucket list. Let us know which ones […]
Charleston Flowers in Bloom
On just about every street you’ll find trees in bloom, shrubs bursting with color and window boxes filled with fragrant flowers. You can see these beautiful blooms – and many more – by simply walking the Battery, the streets South of Broad and in many of Charleston’s parks. Azaleas: You might not give these shrubs […]
‘Slave Auctions’ Historic Marker Unveiled
The Old Exchange Building unveiled a new historic marker, titled “Slave Auctions,” acknowledging the significance of the area around the building as a destination for the domestic slave trade. The marker is located at the intersection of East Bay and Gillon streets, just north of the Old Exchange Building. The marker focuses on slave auctions that occurred just north […]
Charleston’s Favorite Springtime Festivals
Charleston is gearing up for a busy spring filled with food, fashion, flowers. Plus, world-class tennis stars converge on Daniel Island while thousands tackle the annual Cooper Bridge Run. Put one of these great upcoming events on your calendar: March 2-6 Charleston Wine + Food Festival – Food lovers won’t want to miss this annual […]
Camellias Are Calling in Charleston
One of benefits of Charleston’s mild winters is the blooms that add a pop of color to the season – a sure sign spring is just around the corner. The camellias, in particular, are really coming to life this time of year. We recently visited Middleton Place where its 4,000 camellia plants were blooming in […]
Must-Visit Charleston Spots
The Charleston area is home to some amazing landmarks – some historic, others breathtaking and all of them worth a visit while you’re out and about in the Lowcountry. Here are a few favorites; keep watching our blog for even more! Magnolia Cemetery This historic cemetery sits on a former rice plantation. It opened in […]
Oysters Are a Charleston Delicacy
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Fried, steamed or raw, oysters are a Charleston delicacy What could be better than gathering with friends and family over a steaming bucket of local oysters on a chilly day in Charleston? You’ve timed your visit with oyster season so take advantage of the Lowcountry’s many restaurants serving up local oysters plus the oyster […]
Charleston Plantations Showcase Storied Past
Area plantations provide history on slave life in Charleston Each year visitors come to Charleston to soak up the area’s rich history. They are eager to step back in time to the 18th and 19th centuries, gaining a deeper understanding of Charleston’s past. That history is deeply intertwined with that of the slaves who worked […]
Taste of the South: Boiled Peanuts
Want to get a true Southern experience while visiting Charleston? Order a bag of boiled peanuts – a true southern staples perfect for any season. Peanut perfection Boiled peanuts were most likely brought here by African slaves. During the summer months, the slaves would harvest peanut crops and the surplus peanuts would be boiled – […]
Caring for the Charleston Carriage Horses
It’s a safe bet that if the mules and horses working local carriage tours could talk, they could easily recite the best parts of Charleston’s history. They’ve certainly heard the stories plenty of times as they mosey through the city streets. Carriage tours are a popular activity and the steeds pulling the carriages may very […]
Things to Do Valentine’s Day Weekend in Charleston
Don’t you love it when Valentine’s Day falls on the weekend? It’s the perfect excuse for a full-blown romantic celebration – and Charleston is just the place for it. Whether you’re visiting from out of town or looking for a love-filled staycation, Valentine’s Day weekend is brimming with events, fun and plenty of ways to […]
Your 2016 Guide to Fun in Charleston
Ah, the feeling of a new year. We have 12 glorious months stretching out before us filled with possibility and opportunity. Maybe you’re thinking about reading more books, getting more exercise or eating more vegetables. Those are great habits, but don’t forget to throw some adventure into the mix. So whether you’re planning to visit […]
15 Must-Do Holiday Events in Charleston
It’s pretty much impossible to not be in the holiday spirit after visiting Charleston during this magical season. From the lights displays and plantation homes decorated in holiday finery to the musicals and parades, our Christmastime event calendar is as stuffed as Santa’s bag of toys. We’ve narrowed the list to 15 fabulous events sure to […]
Shop These Charleston Area Holiday Markets
Get all your holiday shopping done at one of these markets and special shopping events: Nov. 13-15 Charleston Holiday Market at the Charleston Area Convention Center – Gourmet food, jewelry, home décor, arts and crafts and much more are part of this shopping event. Admission is $7/adult. Nov. 27-28 Holiday Market at Middleton Place – This […]
Take Part in Charleston’s Art Explosion
The Charleston area has a vibrant arts and culture scene. With dozens of theaters, galleries and events showcasing visual, performing and literary arts, the city is alive with creativity and enlightenment. These are just a few ways you can experience Charleston’s rich artistic lifestyle. YALLFest Literary Event Celebrating its fifth anniversary is YALLFest, a premier […]
Charleston Named No. 1 Small U.S. City
For the fifth consecutive year, Charleston has been named the No. 1 Small U.S. City by Condé Nast Traveler 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards. Beating out several California towns, Asheville, N.C., Savannah, Ga., and second-place contender Santa Fe, N.M., Charleston was heralded for her “beautiful gardens, vibrantly painted Georgian houses along Rainbow Row, and carriages clacking […]
What do you love about Charleston?
There’s a lot to love about Charleston. It’s why visitors from around the world flock to the city. It’s why 43 people move to the area each day. And it’s why those who live here stay put … for years. With such diversity in appeal, we wanted to know just what people love about Charleston. […]
Best Bests for Fall Fun in Charleston
A visit to Charleston in the fall is pretty much perfect. The fall season brings a calendar absolutely overflowing with festivals, theater performances and fabulous foodie events. The days are warm and sunny and mornings are cool – perfect for a long walk on the beach, cup of coffee in hand. We’ve compiled a list of […]
What to See, Do and Eat in Mount Pleasant
As you’re visiting Charleston, you can’t miss the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge over the Cooper River. It’s majestic diamonds are easy to spot if you’re at one of the parks or attractions near the Charleston harbor or taking a boat tour. So where does the bridge take you? The Ravenel Bridge connects downtown Charleston to the […]
What to Do Labor Day Weekend in Charleston
Labor Day is just around the corner – that last weekend hurrah to bid farewell to summer and usher in the beginnings of fall with football, cooler temperatures and all things pumpkin flavored. But, hey, let’s not end summer too quickly. Use the long Labor Day weekend to squeeze in as much fun as possible. […]
8 Things to Do in Charleston Before Summer Ends
August, already? What!? Our dreams of a lazy summer are fading fast, quickly replaced with back-to-shopping and “routines.” Fall seems like it’s just around the corner. In fact, we were in a local craft store that was stocked full with (gasp!) Christmas decorations. OK, it’s time to regroup and squeeze the last bit of fun, […]
Charleston Theater: Don’t Miss These Shows
Many of Charleston’s theaters take a break in the late spring and early summer, but now’s the time for new seasons and plenty of incredible shows. The Charleston area is home to numerous theaters offering entertainment for all tastes – Shakespeare, comedy, drama, classics and new productions. Here’s a round-up of some excellent options for […]
Turtle Love: Share the Beach
During the late spring and early summer, mama sea turtles lumber onto the shores of Charleston at night to lay their eggs – often more than 100 in a single nest. The tiny hatchlings emerge between July and October. As you’re visiting Charleston’s area beaches, be careful of the sea turtle nests and never disturb […]
New Parks for Playing, Relaxing in Charleston
We’re so lucky that in Charleston we have an abundance of lovely parks and green spaces. Visitors love Waterfront Park with fountains and views of the Charleston harbor. White Point Garden is a shaded swath of green space on the Charleston Battery. And there are plenty of small pocket parks tucked away in neighborhoods and […]
While Visiting Charleston, Take a Selfie
Need a cool backdrop for a vacation selfie? Charleston has you covered! The city is filled with beautiful backgrounds, historic landmarks and breathtaking views that will have your social media followers figuring out how fast they too can get to the South Carolina Lowcountry. To get you started, we offer up some favorite selfie spots […]
Charleston: Free & Low-Cost Events for Families
What’s better than summer fun? Summer fun on the cheap! We’re compiling a list of free and low-cost summertime events perfect for visitors or families looking to entertain the kiddos until school’s back in session. We’d love to add your free and low-cost events to our list! Email us at holly@hafcreative.com or post your event […]
From Creek to Ocean, Spend Time on the Water
One of Charleston’s major draws is its water – from oceans to creeks to rivers, this stretch of coastal South Carolina has plenty of ways for people to explore the open ocean and the marvelous marshes. Here are a few of our favorite ways to enjoy Charleston’s waterways: Go kayaking on Shem Creek. Book a […]
Charleston Area Fourth of July Events
Charleston knows how to throw a July 4 celebration. With a nod to history and patriotism, the area goes all out when it comes to the Fourth of July. Here’s a list of celebrations and fireworks displays around the Charleston area. City of North Charleston Celebration: 3:30-9:45 p.m. July 4. Spend the day at Riverfront […]
Charleston SC Beaches Guide – IOP – Folly – Sullivans – Kiawah
Each of the Charleston SC beaches in the area has its vibe and coastal character – and its own set of rules. Check out our guide so you’re prepared before you land on the sand. Folly Beach (cityoffollybeach.com) This barrier island beach has a laid back atmosphere and is often frequented by locals and surfers. […]
Release Party for Lowcountry Trilogy
We were happy to be invited to the book release party for “The Summer’s End,” the final book in the trilogy by Charleston area author Mary Alice Monroe. It was also exciting to learn that one of Monroe’s past books, “The Beach House,” will be made into a movie starring South Carolina native Andie MacDowell. […]
‘The Summer’s End’ is Beautiful Close to Lowcountry Trilogy
Have you ever come to the last few chapters of a great book and read more slowly? You know, a couple pages one day, a couple more the next day in an effort to stretch out the story? That’s the way I finished “The Summer’s End” by Charleston author Mary Alice Monroe. This book is […]
Fun for All Ages at Wild Blue Ropes
Ready for a seriously fun challenge? Check out Wild Blue Ropes on your next visit to Charleston. Now in its second season, this ropes course will leave you with a memorable vacation experience. Remember the jungle gym from your childhood playground? Well, this is a jungle gym taken to a whole new level. Stretching 35 […]
Charleston Awash in Spring Blooms
On just about every street you’ll find trees in bloom, shrubs bursting with color and window boxes filled with fragrant flowers. You can see these beautiful blooms – and many more – by simply walking the Battery, the streets South of Broad and in many of Charleston’s parks. Azaleas: With thousands of varieties of azaleas, […]
How to Tackle Charleston’s Busiest Weekend
Maybe you’ve heard there are just a couple of things going on in Charleston this weekend. If you’re feeling really ambitious, you can tackle all of them! Start the weekend with an all-new show “Rock and Roll is Here to Stay!” at the Charleston Music Hall. Long-time Charleston entertainers Brad and Jennifer Moranz are setting […]
Traveler of Charleston Blog Honored with Spark! Award
Traveler team member Holly Fisher was honored by the Charleston American Marketing Association on March 11 for her work on the Traveler of Charleston Blog. Holly received a Spark! Award in the Best Corporate Blog category. Charleston areas marketers were invited to submit their work in a variety of categories during January. Board members from the […]
5 Things to Love about Springtime in Charleston
Finally! Spring has sprung here in Charleston. It’s time to shake off winter and immerse ourselves in the sunshine. Here are some things we love about Charleston in the spring: First beach trip: What’s not to love about shaking off the chill of winter and heading to the beach in the spring? The feel of […]
