As a local, I’m sharing all about Fall in Charleston and the best activities, events, and reasons to visit. Whether you are a local or visitor, this guide will help you plan your fall weekends in the Holy City!
As a local, I’m always excited for Fall in Charleston, SC! After a brutally humid summer season, the locals are always ready for a much needed break from the warmer weather. Fall is one of the best times to visit the area for beautiful weather, great food, and plenty of fall activities in Charleston.
Whether you are a local looking for the best things to do during October in Charleston or a visitor planning your fall vacation, this guide is for you.
In this guide to Fall in Charleston, I’m sharing all about the best fall events, things to do in the fall, and of course some of the best places to eat this time of year for fresh, local seafood and produce! Read on to make plans for all the best fall festivities in Charleston!
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Fall Weather in Charleston
You might be wondering, does Charleston, SC have a fall? Is there fall foilage in Charleston?
Yes, Charleston does have a fall season with average temperatures in the 60ºs-70ºs throughout October and November. However, you won’t find much fall foilage in Charleston. Known for its palm trees and live oaks, these trees in Charleston will maintain their vibrant greens throughout the fall season.
Here are the average temperatures for Charleston, SC, during September, October, and November:
| Month | High | Low |
| September | 85°F | 68°F |
| October | 77°F | 57°F |
| November | 70°F | 48°F |
Best Time to Visit Charleston in Fall
The best month to visit Charleston in the fall is in October. During this month, the summer heat that lingers through September will finally make way for fall temperatures in the 60ºs-70ºs throughout October. While the days are still warm, the nights cool down enough to make it ideal for evenings out before it gets too chilly.
This ideal autumn weather makes October a great time to be in Charleston to enjoy the outdoors and many fun events that take place during the month.
Best Things do in Charleston during Fall
When I think of fall, I think all things cozy! To me, that means knit sweaters, lit candles, great coffee, fall produce, farmers markets, red wine and flavorful beers. As a local Charlestonian, these are some of my favorite things to do in Charleston during the fall to evoke all of these ideals.
1. Take a Walking Tour
I always recommend a walking tour in Charleston especially in the fall. It is the best way to really see Charleston up close and hear from the amazing certified tour guides. I suggest a history tour, but you could also choose a different focus like a culinary tour.
🚶♀️Recommended walking tour in Charleston, SC!
2. Spend the day at Deep Water Vineyard
Deep Water Vineyard, located on Wadmalaw Island, is Charleston’s only vineyard known for their muscadine wine. This gorgeous estate is perfect to spend a fall day during the harvest season. Do a wine tasting or simply grab a glass of wine and have a picnic. They usually have all kinds of events and live music on the weekends as well.
🍷 Book Transportation to Wadmalaw Island and Deep Water Vineyard
3. Visit a Brewery
Fall always has me craving a flavorful beer whether its pumpkin flavored or not! Some of my favorite local breweries to spend that day at are Palmetto Brewing, Westbrook Brewing, Edmunds Oast Brewing Co, Low Tide Brewery, and Holy City Brewery.
4. Make Candles at Candlefish
There’s nothing more cozy than a candle and you can make your very own fall scented candle at Candlefish, one of my favorite Charleston shops!
Book one of their workshops where they will guide you through the candle making process to create your own. The cost is $65 and you get to make two candles so it’s totally worth the cost! You can even bring your own alcohol for a fun girls night activity!
5. Catch a Concert
There is always live music somewhere in Charleston and the fall is the perfect time to catch a show at one of the outdoor venues. Check the schedules at some of the best open air venues like The Windjammer on IOP, Firefly Distillery, and the Credit One Stadium on Daniel Island.
6. Sullivan’s Island
September is definitely still beach weather in Charleston and sometimes you can still enjoy a beach day in October. Head out to Sullivan’s whether for a day in the sun or an afternoon walk. Then, head to Middle Street to dine at some of the best restaurants in town like Obstinate Daughter and Sullivan’s Fish Camp.
7. Visit the Marion Square Farmers Market
Head to the Marion Square Farmer’s Market to grab a coffee and stroll through the different vendors. The local farms will be there with all the best fall produce and local artisans will sell their works.
8. Shop on King Street
King Street is the main the shopping district in Charleston and one of the best in the whole country! Known for its mix of local boutique, national retailers and art galleries, you will definitely want to leave extra room in your suitcase.
Some of my favorite local shops: Lake Pajamas, Madison Mathews, Croghan’s Jewel Box, M Dumas and Sons, Jordan Lash, Under the Almond Tree (kids), Old Whaling Co, Copper Penny, and Beckett Boutique.
9. Attend a Fall Event in Charleston
October is event season in Charleston and there’s plenty of fun fall activities to enjoy. From music festivals to corn mazes, you’ll find it here. I’m sharing all of my favorites in the next section.
Fall Festivals and Events in Charleston
There are always fun events in Charleston throughout the year and the fall season is no different. Whether you want to find the perfect pumpkin, indulge in the culinary scene, or hear live music, you’ll find it at these amazing fall events in Charleston.
1. Boone Hall Fright Nights & Pumpkin Patch
Dates: October 1 -31, 2024
Boone Hall is the premier spot for all things halloween in Charleston. Take the kids and head to the pumpkin patch to pick out your pumpkins. There is plenty more to do at the largest fall festival in the state including a petting zoo, tractor rides, and 8-acre corn maze. Admission is only $15 and under 2 is free.
On the weekends, attend Boone Hall Fright Nights where you will surely be spooked. Take a haunted hayride or face your greatest fears. Just don’t take your kids for this one – must be 12 and up! Tickets start at $39 for fright nights.
2. The Moja Arts Festival
Dates: September 26 – October 6, 2024
MOJA Arts Festival celebrates African American and Caribbean arts and culture with performances, art exhibits, and workshops. This event highlights the rich cultural tapestry of Charleston’s diverse communities.
3. Charleston Food and Wine Classic
Dates: September 26-28
This new to Charleston culinary event features a variety of tastings, cooking demonstrations, and seminars led by top chefs from around the country. It’s a premier opportunity to indulge in Charleston’s rich food culture and learn from renowned culinary experts. In partnership with Explore Charleston, Travel & Leisure, Food & Wine, and Southern Living, this event will be *elite*.
4. Magnolia Plantation Beauti-Fall Festival
Dates: Saturday, September 21, 2024
Head out to explore the grounds at Magnolia Plantation and take part in their fall festival! They will be serving food, have fun games, and fall activities for the whole family.
5. The Fall Tours
Dates: October 9 – November 2, 2024
Every year, the Preservation Society of Charleston offer a chance to explore Charleston’s private historic homes, gardens, and landmarks. The Fall Tours showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage and provide an in-depth look at its storied past. Checkout the full schedule for the Fall Tours.
6. Riverfront Revival
Dates: October 11-12, 2024
Riverfront Revival is a music festival created by our favorite local celeb, Darius Rucker. Considered his love letter to South Carolina, this country music festival is going to be a good one! This year, Hootie and the Blowfish will be headlining and you can checkout the full lineup on their site. Get your tickets ASAP as this will sell out!
7. Octoberfest Charleston
Dates: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Oktoberfest Charleston is a lively event that celebrates German culture with a variety of beers, traditional food, live music, and games. It’s a fun-filled day perfect for enjoying a festive atmosphere and experiencing authentic Oktoberfest traditions.
8. Harvest Festival at Johns Island County Park
Dates: Saturday, November 2, 2024
The Harvest Festival at Johns Island County Park is hosted by the Charleston County Parks Department and is the perfect Fall family event! Enjoy live and local bluegrass music, pumpkin decorating, hayrides, and plenty of activities for kids. They’ll be serving the best fall southern cuisine like Carolina barbecue and of course some kettle corn!
9. Charleston Beer Week
Dates: TBA 2024
Charleston Beer Week is a celebration of craft beer with numerous events including tastings, brewery tours, and beer pairings across the city. It highlights our many local breweries and provides a platform for beer enthusiasts to explore new brews and enjoy activities.
10. Steeplechase of Charleston
Dates: November 10, 2024
Steeplechase Charleston offers a thrilling day of horse racing held at the picturesque Stono Ferry Racetrack. This event combines the excitement of steeplechase racing with a social atmosphere, featuring tailgating, picnicking, and various activities for spectators.
Where to Eat and Drink During Fall in Charleston
The fall season means dining al fresco in Charleston! Not only is the weather perfect for eating outside, but the local oysters are finally back in season. These are some of my favorite restaurants in Charleston for the fall where you can enjoy the atmosphere, seasonal produce and fresh catch!
Leon’s Oyster Shop
Leon’s Oyster Shop is one of my favorite spots in town especially during oyster season in Charleston – that’s any month with an “r” in its name.
Grab a table on the patio and order frozen rosé and a dozen local oysters start. I love the Bulls Bay Blades and the Single Ladies if they have them! Then, try some of my favorites like the fried oyster sandwich, fish sandwich, fried chicken or siam salad. Be sure to order dessert because old fashioned soft serve is on the menu!
Chubby Fish
For a seafood centric, coastal town, Chubby Fish is one the best places for fresh, sustainable seafood in downtown Charleston. Tucked into the Elliotborough neighborhood, you’ll love the local vibe and nautical flare.
The menu changes daily, but some of my favorite staples are bibb lettuce, chili garlic shrimp, curry, and crudo or ceviche! Plan to get there at least by 4:30pm to put your name down when they open at 5pm if you want to eat here (especially on weekends).
Pro tip: Head over to Elliotborough Mini Bar for a cocktail while you wait.
Southbound
Southbound is one of the newer members of the Charleston foodie scene. The hospitality here is unmatched and is one of the many parts that make it standout. The hosts greet you on the front porch with the warmest welcome making you feel like you have just arrived to your best friends house for dinner. I went for my birthday this year and they offered us bubbles to celebrate along with a handwritten card for me!
The culinary concept is focused around live fire cooking where everything is prepared over open flame which adds the perfect smoky flavor to many of the dishes. This is why it gets my votes for one of the best places to eat during fall in Charleston.
Chez Nous
Chez Nous means Our House in French and is hands down the most romantic restaurant in Charleston. It’s set in a tiny Charleston single style home that has been renovated into a restaurant. The flickering candle light make it the dreamiest spot at night during any season. The menu changes daily, but there are always two apps, two entrees, and two desserts – order the whole menu!
Sorelle
Sorelle is the hottest new Italian restaurant to open in Charleston. Chefs Adam Sobel and Nick Dugan have created a menu featuring Southern Italian cuisine created with the help of fresh, local ingredients. There is nothing better than fresh handmade pasta on a fall night!
Go for dinner and be sure to try a few of my favorites: start with the arancini cacio e pepe, zucchini parmigiana, the Sorelle Spaghetti with crispy zucchini and burrata, and end with the limone dessert which is a citrus cream shaped like a lemon!
Edmund’s Oast
Edmund’s Oast is one of my absolute favorites for lunch or dinner with a group. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, with communal tables and a friendly vibe. I love sitting outside in the inviting courtyard for lunch or grabbing a spot at the inside bar for dinner or dessert.
Edmund’s Oast has an amazing cocktail program that was nominated for a James Beard Award for best bar southeast. They change up the drink menu quarterly featuring a guest bartender from popular restaurants in other cities! It is super fun to go taste the new creations every season.
Lowland
Lowland is a brand new restaurant in Charleston helmed by James Beard Award winning chef, Jason Stanhope. It’s located at The Pinch Hotel and housed in a historic building that feels like you are stepping into a charming old Charleston home.
The first floor has a lively bar area called the Tavern Room and the Parlour Room with grand 12 foot ceilings and large windows. Upstairs, you will find the dining room with gorgeous hand painted murals throughout.
Jason Stanhope carefully curated a Southern style menu with plenty of fresh ingredients and an upscale take on comfort food. The menu and the atmosphere at Lowland are both ideal for a cozy fall evening.
What to Wear in Charleston during Fall
Charleston is a fun time of year when it comes to style. After a hot and humid summer, the locals are always excited to pull out our fall fashion.
You will find the locals in denim, lightweight sweaters, maxi dress, and boots this time of year. You may also see some of us still rocking our sandals into October though!
Here is everything you should pack for fall in Charleston and a few fall outfit ideas to help you prepare!
- Maxi Dresses – maxi dresses are great in the fall especially for a nice dinner out.
- Sweaters – bring light sweaters to pair with jeans, pants, or skirts.
- Jeans/Trousers – jeans are always a good idea so its best to pack a pair of denim for the day and chic trousers for evenings.
- Lightweight Jacket – since it does not get too cold in Charleston, a lighter weight jacket is best suited for the fall evenings.
- Sneakers – comfortable sneakers are perfect for exploring the city on foot and taking any tours.
- Boots/Booties – boots and booties are a fall staple whether you wear jeans or dresses.
- Heel – a cute heel is always a great idea for nice dinners.
- Purse – a cute leather purse will go with all of your fall looks.
Where to Stay in Charleston during Fall
Fall calls for a cozy inn or bed and breakfast in Charleston. These are the perfect places to call home for a fall trip to Charleston this year!
Zero George
Zero George is the most charming bed and breakfast style property. It is comprised of only 16 luxury suites throughout their several renovated historic buildings. It feels like you are staying at your Charleston friend’s house with the sweeping piazzas and twinkling gas burning lanterns.
The cozy vibes at Zero George make it a perfect spot to soak up fall in the Holy City!
The Dewberry
The Dewberry is one of the tallest buildings in Charleston at eight stories high with one of the best rooftop views in the city. It is styled in mid-century decor with a charming and warm feeling about it. They even have their own floral print which you’ll find on the armoire in the rooms (I am obsessed with it). And speaking of the rooms, you’ll love the large bathrooms with soaking tubs (in the Charleston Flat room type) and marble everywhere.
The hotel offers two great places to dine or drink. The Living Room is one of my favorite cozy places for a cocktail or head upstairs to the Citrus Club for an incredible view over the city.
And no trip is complete without a visit to their intimate spa. As a local, I go several times of year for facials or massages. It’s the ideal place to spend a fall weekend in Charleston.
Emeline
Emeline is conveniently located across the street from the Charleston City Market and the location could not be better right in the French Quarter. Recently renovated, this boutique hotel offers thoughtfully designed rooms with contemporary touches and amazing views of historic Charleston.
I especially love their onsite restaurant, Frannie and the Fox, set against a brick fireplace in their open air courtyard. Expect Italian options from their wood-fired oven and creative cocktails. This al fresco space is perfect for fall nights around the fireplace.
The Wrap: Fall in Charleston, SC Travel Guide
Visiting Charleston in fall is such a treat—cooler temps, colorful sunsets, and plenty of seasonal charm. From lively festivals to historic strolls under golden leaves, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy fall in Charleston, SC. Cozy up in one of the city’s charming hotels, pack your layers for breezy evenings, and savor every moment of the season. Whether you’re here for the events, the food, or simply the slower pace, autumn is one of the most magical times to experience the Holy City.
Looking for more things to do in Charleston in the fall? Check out Charleston fall bucket list for more planning ideas!
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