A 3-day itinerary to help you experience the best of Charleston.
Experiencing Charleston like a local involves exploring its rich history, indulging in its culinary delights, enjoying its vibrant arts scene, and savoring its natural beauty.
Day 1: Arrival and Historic Downtown Charleston
Morning:
1. Arrival: Check into a boutique hotel or charming bed and breakfast in the historic district.
2. Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at a local café like Caviar & Bananas or Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit.
3. Walking Tour: Join a guided walking tour of the historic district to learn about Charleston’s fascinating history and architecture. Consider tours focusing on specific themes like slavery, colonial history, or culinary history.
Afternoon:
1. Lunch: Grab lunch at a classic Charleston institution like Husk or Poogan’s Porch for authentic Lowcountry cuisine.
2. Explore: Spend the afternoon wandering through the cobblestone streets of downtown Charleston. Visit landmarks like Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park, and the Battery. Pop into boutique shops along King Street for unique finds.
Evening:
1. Dinner: Experience true Southern hospitality at places like FIG or Magnolias for dinner, indulging in dishes like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup.
2. Nightlife: Explore the local bar scene on Upper King Street or East Bay Street. Enjoy craft cocktails at The Belmont or live music at Henry’s on the Market.
Day 2: Nature and Culture
Morning:
1. Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Daily or Queen Street Grocery.
2. Outdoor Adventure: Head to nearby Sullivan’s Island or Isle of Palms for a morning of beachcombing, sunbathing, or kayaking.
Afternoon:
1. Lunch: Grab lunch at a seafood shack like The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene (Fun Fact: The Wreck is the setting for Kiara’s parents restaurant in Outer Banks!) for fresh, local seafood or Saltwater Cowboys and enjoy the view of Shem Creek.
2. Cultural Exploration: Visit cultural sites like the Charleston Museum or the Gibbes Museum of Art to delve into Charleston’s rich heritage and artistic legacy.
Evening:
1. Dinner: Dine at a hidden gem like Xiao Bao Biscuit or Chez Nous for innovative, globally-inspired cuisine.
2. Live Performance: Catch a live performance at a local venue like the Dock Street Theatre or the Charleston Music Hall.
Day 3: Plantations and Gardens
Morning:
1. Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Millers All Day or Early Bird Diner.
2. Plantation Tour: Explore the history of Charleston’s plantations with a visit to Boone Hall Plantation or Middleton Place. Learn about the region’s agricultural past and tour the stunning gardens.
Afternoon:
1. Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the plantations or stop by a local deli for sandwiches to-go.
2. Gardens and Parks: Spend the afternoon strolling through the lush gardens of Magnolia Plantation or the historic grounds of Hampton Park.
Evening:
1. Farewell Dinner: End your trip with a memorable dinner at a waterfront restaurant like Fleet Landing or The Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island, soaking in the picturesque views and savoring the flavors of Charleston.
2. Reflection: Take an evening walk along the Battery to reflect on your time in Charleston and enjoy the city’s enchanting ambiance.
Additional Tips:
– Transportation: Charleston is a very walkable city, but you may also consider renting bikes or using rideshare services for longer distances.
– Reservations: Make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants and tours.
– Local Events: Check local event calendars for festivals, markets, or live performances happening during your visit to immerse yourself further in Charleston’s vibrant culture.
This itinerary offers a blend of history, culture, nature, and culinary delights, allowing you to experience Charleston like a local. Enjoy your trip!