I’ve always had it in my head that I wanted to move to Charleston. I figured at some point, to be absolutely sure, I should actually go to Charleston. All I have to say is the pictures do not do it justice. Each house is more beautiful than the last, the food is amazing, and the people are incredibly kind.
Going to any new place can be a bit overwhelming especially if you’re on a tight time frame. I know I try and experience as much as possible each day, so I like to go with a loose plan of my absolute must sees and where they are located.
I’ve outlined my entire Charleston trip with the best photo spots, places to eat, and activities to go on – and in what order! Full Disclaimer: I do not live in Charleston, nor do i consider myself an expert on the city. I’m just sharing below what I loved seeing and the best strategy to do it all!
1.Millers all day
Start here! It’s the perfect location to jumpstart your day with a Latte and the best pancakes!
Its also a great photo op!
2. Meeting Street:
Next take a walk down Meeting Street and stare at all of the beautiful houses and doorways! I liked to go back and forth between King and Meeting Street to really see all of the best houses!
3. The Battery
This is one of my favorite spots! The water view is absolutely beautiful and the houses along this walk are jaw dropping! Make sure to checkout the gorgeous houses on the way and make a one block detour to see the iconic pink door!
4. Rainbow Row
An iconic spot in Charleston and an absolute must see. It does get crowded in that area so if you’re going with the intention of taking photos I would go early!
5. Pineapple Fountain
One of the most notable spots, and you wouldn’t be a true tourist if you didn’t take a look here!
Poogan’s Smokehouse
After all of that walking it’s officially time for lunch. This is right near the pineapple fountain so no need for another long walk. Not to be dramatic but this was the best BBQ pork sandwich I’ve every had! I still think about how delicious it was. The best part was eating outside and enjoying the view!
6. City Market
This adorable market is a must stop to pickup some souvenirs and see all of the local vendors and artwork! There is also a Black Dog shop right next store. The staff is absolutely amazing, and we somehow got lucky and they were having a puppy adoption event at the same time!
7. Shopping at King Street
They have all of my favorites like J. Crew, Vineyard Vines, and Kate Spade! I loved stopping into Skinny Dipp and the Pink Lilly Boutique for a more local shopping spree! The Skinny Dipp has the cutes upstairs bar and coffee shop to keep you hydrated while you continue shopping!
Dinner!
After a full day of walking and shopping It’s time for dinner! We were in town for two nights and got to eat at two AMAZING restaurants. Magnolias and High Cotton. I absolutely recommend both of these places, but if you want to eat at Magnolias I would make a reservation in advance as it fills up quickly especially on the weekends.
Go Sailing
We booked a sailboat ride with Charleston Sailing Adventures and it was the best time! The view was amazing and they serve drinks on board too! We went with a group sail which was extremely affordable.
If you’re looking for something more private there are tons of companies that offer private sailboat charters. I would also recommend booking in advance for this one as well as they fill up extremely quickly!
As you travel and experience a city you’ll find things you wish you would have done or that one last shop you wanted to go in. It’s inevitable and the perfect excuse to plan your next trip back – what’s a trip without a little recon?