Every time I have to leave Charleston, SC I go kicking and screaming. The town is one of the most charming and beautiful places I've ever been. It is rich with history and full of to-die-for food. Trust me, Charleston's ocean setting and can't-stop-till-you-drop shopping make Charleston a top travel destination.
With my sister's help, she's a local, I put together a little guide for doing Charleston right. Dig your teeth in!
Stay:
Charleston Place: A beautifully Southern hotel complete with a great bar, go-to shops, and a lovely spa. Can I check in now?
Zero George Street Boutique Hotel: Tradition meets the contemporary South at this inviting hotel composed of five restored historical residential buildings.
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| Zero George Street Boutique Hotel |
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| Zero George Street Boutique Hotel |
Do:
Walk along Rainbow Row and The Battery
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| Rainbow Row |
Take a carriage ride
Peruse the historical City Market for straw sweet grass baskets
Browse the farmer's market in Marion Square on Saturday mornings to enjoy breakfast & discover local artists
Shop:
Hampden Clothing: for designers including A.L.C., Current/Elliott, Equipment, Jenni Kayne, Rag & Bone, & Tucker
Palm Avenue: for Lily Pulitzer
Acquisitions: for amazing home wear and furniture
Lily: for cards, stationary, jewelry, and beautiful trinkets
Eat:
The Macintosh: The menu changes with the season and never fails to impress for cocktails & dinner
Poogan's Porch: A Breakfast, lunch, & dinner must - the shrimp & grits
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| Poogan's Porch |
Blossom: Go here for good ole' Southern seafood
Husk: The pig ear lettuce wraps sound risky but they are to die for
Hall's Chop House: Hall's boasts a versatile menu but I always pick a steak when dining here
Hominy Grill: Oprah's favorite restaurant in Charleston serves up delicious breakfast and lunch (Don't miss the okra & shrimp beignets)
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| Hominy Grill |
Drink:
The Cocktail Club: An diverse cocktail menu + regular live music = a great environment for gathering and drinking
Midtown: The inside bar, outdoor patio bar, pool table, and live music make for a laid back college bar
The Rooftop Bar at Vendue Inn: Go here for refreshing cocktails and one-of-a-kind views of the Charleston harbor
Wear:
When I was in Charleston last week I experienced typical Southern summer weather - warm & humid with afternoon showers. One day I worked with the weather by wearing this
lightweight Anthropologie jumpsuit. The ikat jumpsuit packs great and has a feminine fit with the tie waist so it was the perfect choice (speaking of jumpsuits, I'm also currently coveting this
Anthropologie romper for summer!).
I also embraced the city's proximity to the water and sported this
J.Crew floral anchor tee. Let's be honest, I often throw a nautical twist into my dressing.
All in all, my sister and I agree that Charleston is the perfect city to travel to with girlfriends, with your family, or for a couple's weekend. Xoxo travel bugs!
