Curator’s statement
Charleston combines its history, lively culture and amazing food with the welcoming charm of the South. Its streets and historic landmarks tell stories of the past, while its iconic film locations keep it modern and captivating to make you feel like you’re stepping into a movie! From the Marketplace to unforgettable seafood feasts, Charleston offers something special and unique for everyone. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, Charleston’s charm will have you coming back for more.
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Things to do in Charleston
Rainbow Row: Known for the colorful row of houses in the Historic District. I walked through this area solo but know there are guided tours if you want to know more about the history. Also, a great spot for pictures!
The Battery: Walk around or take a carriage ride through The Battery with views of pretty and really old, large homes that were built before the Civil War. You can also take pictures in front of the iconic Pineapple Fountain!
The Charleston Place Spa: Great way to unwind after a long day or long flight. The Intraceuticals facial left me feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Charleston City Market: An open-air market with local artists and vendors. They have unique items such as Sweetgrass baskets, unique ornaments and jewelry.
Boutique shopping on King Street: They have everything from H&M to Gucci! Bonus if you’re a fan of Southern Charm on Bravo, you can find Craig’s Sewing Down South.
King Street & Morris Street: The infamous Notebook scene where Noah & Allie lay in the middle of the road.
Mount Pleasant/Shem Creek: There are multiple activities to do on the water, from paddleboarding to chartering a fishing boat.
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, located in Mount Pleasant, SC: Take a tour of the house where they shot The Notebook. It has a long drive lined with Oak trees that one can expect when visiting the plantation. They also have a hayride tour that takes you through the property to view all the fruit and vegetables that are grown on site.
Cypress Gardens: I wasn’t able to get to this in my weekend adventures, but it’s next on the list when I return for the picturesque views and movie history. The films The Patriot with Mel Gibson, The Notebook with Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, Gena Rowlands and James Gardner were filmed here.
Folly Beach: Great beach atmosphere and park along the sides of the road and walk to the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve. There is something to see and do for everyone.
Isle of Palm: Spend a great day at the beach or just going out for a scenic view of large beach houses towards Sullivan’s Island.
Places to eat & drink in Charleston
Hank’s Seafood Restaurant: Hands down the best she-crab soup. Trust me, skip the appetizer of oysters and get it for appetizer and main course, you won’t regret it! I sat at the bar since it was a party of (1) so make sure to make reservations!
Magnolia’s Uptown/Down South: Make sure not to skip the Fried Green Tomatoes. The combination of sweet and savory will keep you full from lunch to dinner.
High Cotton: They have both she-crab soup and fried green tomatoes, but I went with the delicious Prince Edward Island Mussels that are brought out in a large pot of heaven with white wine and garlic sauce.
Church & Union: An old church that was converted into a restaurant. It’s a unique place to have drinks or dinner!
The Rooftop Bar at The Vendue: great place to eat and drink for dinner with a view.
Poogan’s Porch: This is a very popular restaurant for brunch. Definitely make sure to make reservations.
Republic Garden & Lounge: A great place to stop and rest your feet while shopping. Bonus: they have amazing drinks on the lounge side. The main area opens into a bar at night. It’s featured on Southern Hospitality.
Sister location: Mesu is a unique Mexican/Sushi Flare and a unique inside design.
Sister location: Bourbon & Bubbles is an upscale restaurant/bar known for mainly bourbon drinks and champagne.
Travel Advisor
Ashley Gillum
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Charleston page.