Charleston, SC Itinerary: The Ultimate Weekend Guide
Charleston, South Carolina is one of the cutest destinations I have ever visited. Β This southern city is the perfect place to enjoy historical landmarks, views of the Atlantic Ocean, and cobblestone streets connecting you to the best parts of the city. This city is one of the best options for history buffs in the United States. Charleston is full of life and spunk, you definitely don’t want to miss spending a beautiful weekend here. This post is your go-to Charleston Itinerary.
The best time to visit Charleston is definitely not summer, for me at least, summer is way too hot. This means that spring and fall create the perfect weather for tourists alike. To get to Charleston, I would suggest flying into Charleston International Airport which is then only a 20-minute drive from downtown. With its cobblestone streets and rich history, I can only say great things about Charleston. With this, I have outlined the ultimate Charleston itinerary. A step-by-step guide to the best things to do and eat in this charming city.
The Ultimate Weekend Guide: Charleston Itinerary
Friday
Check Into Your Hotel
This of course all depends on your budget but Charleston does have some swanky hotels. The French Quarter is definitely a fan favorite for places to stay and especially one for this Charleston itineray. The French Quarter is conveniently located in the picturesque streets of Charleston including Rainbow Row. If you are focusing your trips more on restaurants or shopping spots, Marion Square is definitely the best place to stay for that.Β The best hotels that are trendy yet semi-budget-friendly include The Ryder Hotel, Emeline, Indigo Inn, and the Vendue.Β
Head to the Pineapple FountainΒ
If you are staying in the French Quarter, the Pineapple Fountain is very close by. The Pineapple Fountain was created in 1990 and is a staple of Charleston’s Waterfront Park. The significance of the Pineapple Fountain showcases Charleston as a port city. The southern tale states when sea captains came home from the voyages they would place a pineapple at the gate of their home. The pineapple meant two things, they were home from their voyage and they welcomed guests into their home. From this, the pineapple signifies hospitality.Β
Rainbow Row
Rainbow Row is located on East Bay Street within walking distance of the pineapple fountain. It is the City’s most picturesque part of town as it showcases a row of the most pastel homes. It is a popular tourist attraction because of its architectural beauty. No one knows the true reason behind the pastel color choices but there are, as always, many speculations. Don’t forget your camera when visiting here!
Dinner at Husk Restaurant
This restaurant was one of my favorite experiences in Charleston. Husk Restaurant is centrally located in historic downtown Charleston. The restaurant is located in a charming reinvented home with a patio on the bottom and top-level porch. The food is literally so incredible as it transforms Southern cuisine. They use local ingredients and have the best southern-style meals I have ever experienced. The decor creates a casual but chic environment. This restaurant is a MUST!
Saturday
Go Shopping on King Street
King Street is known for its incredible shopping and exquisite dining. The street has a blend of local, regional, and national shops making it the place to be for retailers. The street compiles a mix of antiques, art, fashion, and home decor. King Street is located in downtown Charleston and is the second most historical street. King Street is one street on this Charleston Itinerary that you don’t want to miss.Β
Spend time at the Aiken-Rhett House Museum
Magnolia Plantation
The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens has been awarded as “America’s Most Beautiful Gardens”. The plantation was founded in 1676 and holds some of the greatest histories in the United States. It not only showcases beauty through its garden but also shares the rich southern history. You don’t want to miss this!
Go Shopping at Charleston City Market for Local ArtistryΒ
Let’s continue this shopping day with one of my favorite spots to shop, the Charleston City Market. The Charleston City Market, located also in downtown Charleston, is the city’s historic outdoor market hall. It stretches 4 blocks and holds more than 300 local artists. It operates on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays (April – December) from 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. outdoors.
Try Another MuseumΒ
Take a Food Tour
Time for a Post Dinner Ghost Tour
Sunday
Have a Beach Day at Folly Beach, Sullivans Island, or Kiawah
Folly beach is located just south of downtown Charleston. It is home to the iconic Folly Beach Pier and beautiful beach terrain. It is definitely a more lively beach and has many great vacation rental options on the shores. Folly beach is definitely the place to go to if you are wanting to surf. Sullivan’s Island is only 10 minutes from downtown Charleston making it an easy day trip. It showcases one of the more classic beach towns. The beaches are wide open and don’t have lifeguards on duty. If you are looking to escape the city, then Kiawah is the best place for you. It is a 45-minute drive from downtown Charleston and is home to world-class resorts and spas.Β
Folly Beach
Folly Beach
End the Weekend at a Rooftop Bar for Drinks and Lite Bites
If this was my trip back to Charleston, I would definitely go to The Citrus Club at the Dewberry Hotel. The Dewberry is located on Meeting Street and has the chicest rooftop bar I’ve seen. It also showcases views of the city and sea. If this rooftop isn’t for you other favorites include The Rooftop Bar at the Vendue, The Cocktail Club, the Pavilion Bar, and Fiat Lux.Β This is your last stop on this Charleston Itinerary so definitely go out with a bang!
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