Charleston, South Carolina, has been named Journey + Leisure readers’ favourite U.S. metropolis in our “World’s Finest Awards” survey 12 months after 12 months for a number of convincing causes. Whereas the Southern port metropolis is thought for centuries-old cobblestones and horse-drawn carriages, its dynamism and ahead momentum are obvious throughout all sides of town — from its top-tier culinary feats to its ever-evolving roster of outlets, museums, and must-see points of interest.  

Alongside abiding favorites and well-known views — purchasing on King Avenue, wandering down Rainbow Row, snagging a desk at Fig or The Strange, venturing out to one of many close by seashores — town repeatedly boasts quite a lot of thrilling openings and relative newcomers that shortly ingrain themselves in Charleston tradition. Cease by Babas on Cannon for European-inspired dishes, an espresso, and possibly an aperitif or two. Traditional southern Italian meets Lowcountry at Sorelle, an all-day restaurant, bar, and market spanning two tales of 88 Broad Avenue. Meals tends to be a preferred subject of dialog in Charleston, because the F&B scene is paramount for many guests, however there’s a lot to do in between meals. If you’ve reached the purpose the place you possibly can’t fathom consuming one other chunk, enterprise to neighboring Mount Nice, the place you’ll discover a curation of native artwork at Charleston Artist Collective and a stellar sundown overlooking Charleston Harbor from Pitt Avenue Bridge.

Whether or not you’re planning your first journey to Charleston otherwise you, understandably, preserve coming again to the Holy Metropolis, this T+L Charleston journey information will assist you get probably the most out of your go to — everytime you select to go.

Finest Time To Go to

Charleston attracts worldwide and home vacationers all 12 months spherical, however you’ll discover totally different climate, occasions, and downtown decor relying on the month you select to go to. 

Rain is comparatively frequent in spring, however it’s arguably probably the greatest instances of the 12 months in Charleston, with temperatures various from 60 to 80 levels and Southern blooms like wisteria, jasmine, and azaleas popping out in full power. The height of wisteria season (“wisteria hysteria”) falls in mid-March, proper after the Charleston Meals + Wine Competition, the place the Lowcountry exhibits off its numerous, world-renowned meals tradition on a bigger stage. Charleston Jazz Competition occurs in April, a month that additionally marks the opening of Charleston Farmers Market’s common season in Marion Sq.. The beloved Competition of Homes and Gardens concludes mid-month, adopted by Spoleto, a 17-day performing arts competition that takes over town from late Could to early June. In case you’re headed to Charleston within the spring, simply be ready for crowds, site visitors, traces, and hard-to-find parking. 

Fall can be a preferred time to go to Charleston, because the climate is outlined by average days and crisp evenings. Oyster season begins in early October; and historic home excursions return after a protracted, scorching summer season. Social media listings are your greatest software for locating native oyster roasts, however you may must buy tickets upfront for the Preservation Society of Charleston’s Fall Excursions. Select from guided excursions by personal properties, self-guided strolls by Charleston’s most stunning gardens, or strolling excursions down the historic streets. 

Winters within the Southeast are sometimes gentle and sometimes wet; temperatures not often drop low sufficient for snow flurries. That stated, December is a magical time in Charleston. Historic properties lining decrease King, Assembly, Legare, Church, Broad, and South Battery Streets are dressed to the nines in breathtaking magnolia garland, cheerful wreaths, and flickering candles within the home windows. The annual Vacation Competition of Lights, a three-mile driving tour by James Island County Park, is a favourite family-friendly exercise within the evenings. February is the unofficial begin of competition season, as Charleston units up for the Southeastern Wildlife Exhibition (SEWE), a weekend celebration of all issues outside—together with artwork, sporting exhibitions, and the can’t-miss dock canine competitors. 

Though coastal breezes present some reduction, summer season’s warmth — assume excessive 80s and low 90s — thunderstorms, and humidity make it lower than very best for tourism, however there are nonetheless a couple of causes to go to Charleston in June, July, and August. Particularly, town’s entry to sand and salt water. Only a 15 to 30-minute drive from downtown, Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, and Folly Seashore carry their very own distinctive attraction to beach-goers. Add Kiawah Island to your summer season seashore bucket listing in case you’re ready to drive a bit of additional. 

Learn Extra: The Finest Instances to Go to Charleston to Save Cash, Hit the Seashore, and Keep away from the Crowds

How you can Get There

Charleston Worldwide Airport (CHS) is a few 20-minute drive from most Charleston points of interest. Renting a automobile is optionally available, as Ubers and Lyfts are available, and parking will be tough — significantly in case you’re headed to the seashore or searching for a spot downtown. 

Finest Resorts & Resorts

The Loutrel

Journey + Leisure readers named The Loutrel, which opened in November 2021, the most effective resort in Charleston — a title earned because of its upscale Lowcountry fashion, rooftop cocktail service, facilities, and iconic downtown location. The boutique resort’s entrance doorways open to State Avenue, only a quick stroll from Charleston sights like The Battery, the Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park, and Rainbow Row. 

The Pinch

If a boutique resort with considerate touches at each flip is your favourite sort of lodging, e book a room at The Pinch within the Ansonborough neighborhood. Greater than only a 22-room property, the resort additionally options three furnished residences — which will be reserved for stays of 30 days or longer — a spa, each day complimentary breakfast, and a 40-seat oyster bar, generally known as The Quinte. 

The Ryder Resort

Billed as a “boutique escape-meets-experience resort,” The Ryder Resort could have already made an look or two in your Instagram feed. The brilliant, ethereal rooms and customary areas have a relaxed really feel to them — the precise sort of environment you’d anticipate when visiting a coastal metropolis. 

The Dewberry

The Dewberry, which describes itself as “providing old-world appeal with a particular trendy edge,” is true downtown, only a block from King Avenue. On the principle flooring, you may discover the comfortable Dwelling Room, the place you possibly can refresh with espresso or cocktails or seize a chunk to eat. Its rooftop restaurant and bar, Citrus Membership, affords unparalleled views of Charleston and equally-as-photogenic tropical drinks.

Emeline

Emeline is ready within the coronary heart of historic Charleston and residential to Frannie and The Fox, an Italian eatery that has resort friends and locals alike flocking to the wood-fired pizza and outside eating choices. After brunch or earlier than dinner, take one of many customized Emeline bikes out for a spin across the neighborhood.

Publish Home Inn

Friends on the expertly curated boutique inn and tavern — born out of the inventive minds behind Charleston agency Fundamental Initiatives — get pleasure from Southern hospitality in Previous Village Mount Nice, a 10-minute drive from downtown. The Publish Home Inn is the definition of a shiny, photogenic escape—and it’s solely a block away from the waterfront.

Zero George Avenue

Three restored historic properties and two brick carriage properties home 16 luxurious rooms that exude relaxation and rest. After a protracted bike trip across the neighborhood (on complimentary seashore cruisers, in fact), start your night with a cocktail within the outside courtyard earlier than tucking into the seasonal fare supplied on the on-site Zero Restaurant.

Learn Extra: The 15 Finest Resorts in Charleston

Finest Eating places

Sorelle

A 2023 newcomer, Sorelle brings its in depth housemade bread and pasta program, antipasti counter, and wine room (amongst quite a few different options) to Broad Avenue. Its Italian menu is spearheaded by Cooks Adam Sobel and Nick Dugan, however it falls underneath the umbrella of acclaimed Chef Michael Min’s award-winning Mina Group.

FIG

A 20-plus-year Charleston veteran, FIG continues to fill its tables with each regulars in addition to these hoping to get their first style of Chef Mike Lata’s contemporary fish entrees and seasonal dishes. Reservations for the in-demand restaurant will be onerous to come back by, and depend your self fortunate in case you can sneak right into a seat on the bar. 

Rodney Scott’s BBQ

The South Carolina-born pitmaster rose to barbecue fame after successful Finest Chef Southeast on the 2018 James Beard Awards and showing within the Netflix present, Chef’s Desk: Barbecue. Full with a drive-through and shiny blue picnic tables, Rodney Scott’s BBQ is house to each Southern delicacy you possibly can probably think about: collard greens, hush puppies, banana pudding, and crunchy pig skins.

167 Uncooked

They do not take reservations and also you may see a line out the door, however do not let that preserve you from the contemporary seafood at local-favorite hotspot 167 Uncooked. The wait is value it for the crispy oysters, scallop po’boys, and ever-changing menu of “frozie” cocktails. 

Leon’s Fantastic Poultry & Oyster Store

Charleston restaurateur and entrepreneur Brooks Reitz is the mastermind behind Leon’s (in addition to Little Jack’s Tavern, Monza Pizza Bar, Melfi’s, and Jack Rudy Cocktail Firm). Set in a former physique store, Leon’s includes a relaxed environment with top-of-the-line fried rooster, char-grilled oysters, cocktails, and soft-serve ice cream. A reservation for bigger events is suggested, however last-minute diners and small teams can normally discover house both inside or on the spacious outside patio.

Chez Nous

Reservations and outside eating choices? Sure to each. A stagnant menu? In no way. Chez Nou, discovered on Instagram @cheznouscharleston, posts its European-inspired lunch and dinner menu every day: two appetizers, two entrees, and two desserts.

The Strange

Reserving a desk at The Strange is advisable because the uncooked bar and scrumptious libations are in excessive demand. The previous financial institution constructing, which sits smack dab in the midst of King Avenue, can solely be described as “buzzing,” with friends excitedly devouring native peel-and-eat shrimp, uncooked oysters, and different concoctions born from the sheer genius of The Strange’s cooks.

Finest Issues to Do

Folly Seashore, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms

Going to the seashore when visiting Charleston is a no brainer; the pristine South Carolina coast cannot be crushed. Most locals favor Sullivan’s Island, with its entry to quite a lot of eating places and bars only a few blocks again from the beachfront, whereas the neighboring Isle of Palms is good for households). The crowds of Folly Seashore will be intimidating, however simply preserve driving additional down E. Arctic Ave; you may discover extra parking and extra room on the seashore as you progress away from the middle of city.

Stroll & Speak Charleston

You possibly can discover downtown Charleston your self, however chances are you’ll miss out on some vital information, architectural tidbits, and historic perception, the type you’ll discover on a guided tour. Founding father of Stroll & Speak Charleston Tyler Web page Wright Friedman and her workforce supply quite a lot of fascinating excursions, together with one exploring the LGBTQ+ historical past of Charleston, a strolling tour targeted on the position of horses all through Charleston’s historical past, and a tour that includes Charleston and the Lowcountry’s pure historical past. 

Charleston Crusing Adventures

Take within the Charleston skyline from the water by reserving a sundown sail across the harbor. Do not forget your telephone or a digicam—you will not get higher views of the Battery or the majestic Ravenel Bridge anyplace else.

Coastal Expeditions

Throughout the Cooper River and Charleston Harbor lies Shem Creek, the place you possibly can hire kayaks or paddle boards to paddle alongside dolphins and discover the encompassing creek and marsh. When you’re completed for the day, comply with up your journey with a drink or meal at one of many many eating places within the space.

Angel Oak

The encompassing Lowcountry, full of reside oak bushes and Spanish moss, is simply as picturesque because the historic properties downtown. Twenty minutes from downtown is Angel Oak, a several-hundred-year-old reside oak that shades over 17,200 sq. toes. The most effective half? You possibly can go away your pockets at house; it is free for all friends.

Palmetto Carriage Works

Name it touristy, however taking in Charleston’s historical past from a horse carriage is without doubt one of the hottest excursions within the space. Select from a private trip with simply your celebration or be a part of within the bigger excursions as your information takes you across the quaint Charleston streets.

Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie

Historical past buffs flock to Charleston, which performed a key position in each the Revolutionary and the Civil Wars. Fort Sumter can solely be accessed by boat, however Fort Moultrie is a fast go to after a day exploring Sullivan’s Island.

Learn Extra: 28 Finest Issues to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

Neighborhoods to Go to

Downtown Charleston: In any other case generally known as the peninsula, downtown Charleston contains a number of distinct neighborhoods, every with its personal historical past choose of eating places, outlets, and iconic Charleston landmarks. South of Broad, the realm under Broad Avenue, is the place you may discover The Battery; Harleston Village is generally full of locals and Faculty of Charleston college students who frequent Colonial Lake. Cannonborough/Elliotborough is alight with creativity and scrumptious treats; choose up a cupcake from Sugar Bakeshop whereas strolling alongside Cannon Avenue. The French Quarter is a basic cease for Charleston first-timers; Charleston Metropolis Market, the Gibbes Museum of Artwork, and the South Carolina Historic Society are all within the space.

Mount Nice: Crossing the Ravenel Bridge leads you to Mount Nice. Equal components suburb, purchasing locations, bars, eating places, and outside actions, Mount Nice is without doubt one of the largest cities in South Carolina. Whereas there, head to Previous Village Historic District to catch the unparalleled views from Pitt Avenue Bridge—which used to attach the city to the adjoining Sullivan’s Island.

Sullivan’s Island: A two-and-a-half-mile-long barrier island, Sullivan’s Island is greater than only a seashore city. In addition to the sandy shore, there are a number of fashionable eating places (together with Poe’s Tavern, The Obstinate Daughter, and Residence Workforce BBQ), bike paths, and among the dreamiest seashore homes you may discover within the Charleston space.

Isle of Palms (IOP): Alternating homes of residents and renters will be discovered alongside the principle street on Isle of Palms, Palm Boulevard. Related to each Sullivan’s Island and Mount Nice, IOP can be house to Wild Dunes Resort and Golf Course.

Daniel Island: Between the Cooper and Wando Rivers, Daniel Island is one in every of Charleston’s greatest locations for outside actions. Golf programs, parks, and trails are simply accessible and will be reached in simply 20 minutes from downtown.

Johns Island: The biggest island in South Carolina, Johns Island is flanked by James Island, Folly Seashore, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Right here you may discover the well-known Angel Oak tree and a number of other golf programs, each personal and public.

James Island: Take within the marsh views and iconic bushes on James Island, an space as soon as used as largely farmland. For vacationers in search of barely decrease lodging costs than what you may discover downtown, James Island options a number of extra budget-friendly motels and leases to select from.

Folly Island: Seashore bars, cafes, memento outlets, seafood markets, taco shacks, and golf cart leases—what else does a seashore city want? Folly Island is without doubt one of the hottest South Carolina seashore locations as a result of its proximity to downtown Charleston and the sheer quantity of leisure for beach-goers of all ages.

Kiawah and Seabrook Islands: Privateness and quiet are two belongings you’ll discover upon venturing additional out into the gated communities of Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Course, a five-star resort with unbeatable ocean views, is pure luxurious and rest—a must-stay for particular events and celebrations. You possibly can’t get on both island with out a cross, however Kiawah’s Beachwalker Park is open to the general public.

North Charleston: Many Charleston journey guides make the error of leaving out North Charleston—which is repeatedly including new locations to eat, drink, and keep. Eating places like Jackrabbit Filly and EVO Pizza are well worth the trek when the peninsula turns into overcrowded by the inflow of summer season vacationers.

Finest Buying 

King Avenue is named the purchasing Mecca of Charleston—with shops starting from native firms like Previous Whaling Firm, Berlin’s, and Beau & Ro to call manufacturers like YETI, J.Crew, and Brooks Brothers. 

Croghan’s Jewel Field

Household-owned jewellery retailer Croghan’s seems on nearly each Charleston listing you may learn, and for good purpose. Getting into the King Avenue retailer is like getting into one other world—diamond rings, vintage lockets, and pewter keepsakes are simply among the treasures you may discover across the store.

Lake Pajamas

In case you neglect your pajamas, otherwise you desperately need to add one other striped set to your closet, the Southern model’s retailer is open on Decrease King. Cozy robes, breezy dressers, and even choices for teenagers can be found contained in the two-story store. 

Preservation Society of Charleston

The Preservation Society of Charleston brings you the most effective from native artisans and types, together with Brackish Bow Ties, Smithey Ironware, and J. Stark. They are often discovered alongside books from Charleston authors and different distinctive objects that make memorable presents for family members or tokens for your self.

Hampden Clothes

Designer names run rampant at Hampden Clothes, a luxurious retailer flanked by its sister outlets, James and Small, on King Avenue. Go in with an open pockets and you will go away feeling significantly fashionable; Carolina Herrera, Mansur Gavriel, and Golden Goose are simply among the acquainted manufacturers stocked at Hampden.

Buying Outdoors of King Avenue

Cigar Manufacturing unit

The Cigar Manufacturing unit, which is on the Nationwide Historic Register, options a variety of outlets alongside East Bay Avenue, together with textiles at Fritz Porter, non-toxic nail salon The Water Room, and gourmand meals emporium Mercantile & Mash. Probably the greatest components? Not like King Avenue, parking on the Cigar Manufacturing unit is painless and free.

Burbage’s Grocery

Situated on Broad Avenue, proper under Colonial Lake, is Burbage’s Grocery, a family-run specialty grocery retailer locals return to repeatedly. You possibly can pop in for lunch— there is a absolutely functioning deli within the again—or cease for domestically brewed beer, scorching sauce, and freshly baked items.

Nightlife

Charleston institutions could not keep as open as late as bigger cities like New York or Los Angeles, however King Avenue is much from sleepy. Throngs of Faculty of Charleston college students and bachelor and bachelorette events frequent institutions like Uptown Social, Prohibition, and The Cocktail Membership. 

In case you’re in search of one thing extra lowkey, although, a cocktail, a glass of wine, or a fast nightcap are greatest loved at quite a lot of native favorites, together with Bar Rollins, Babas on Cannon, Bin 152, Graft Wine Store, and The Bar & Patio at Husk.

Different Sources

Getting Round

Automobile providers like Uber and Lyft are frequent and comparatively inexpensive in Charleston, however it’s additionally a walkable and bikeable metropolis. If most of your excursions and explorations are downtown, carry strolling sneakers or preserve a watch out for pedicabs—an pleasurable solution to get again to your resort after dinner or a spherical of drinks. In case you prefer to discover on two wheels, hire a seashore cruiser from Bilda Bike on King Avenue, which affords each day, weekly, and month-to-month choices. 

CARTA is Charleston’s bus service with quite a lot of routes all through town in addition to a number of Park and Trip areas. Downtown Space Shuttle (DASH) affords three routes on the peninsula (free).

Packing Ideas 

A mixture of seashore gear, walking-appropriate clothes and sneakers, and some elevated items ought to make it in your suitcase earlier than heading to Charleston. Breathable materials, like linen and cotton, assist make the warmth and humidity a bit extra tolerable. Irrespective of the season, you’ll need sunscreen, bug spray, and an umbrella.

Learn Extra: The Final Charleston Packing Listing