I’m so excited to share my local’s guide to Charleston today! Being born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina I am a bit biased when I say Charleston is the best place to visit. But hey, I’m not the only one. The readers of Conde Nast, Travel + Leisure, and Southern Living have all named us a number one city in America (and the world) for the past 10 years in a row. Whether you are here for the beaches, history, or to eat your way through, you’ll find what you are looking for in Charleston.
I live in downtown Charleston, work in the local hospitality industry, and spend AMPLE time eating out and enjoying the city. I truly love and take advantage of where I live so this background definitely qualifies me to tell you what is actually the best to see and do. Here is my local’s guide to all the latest and greatest (and historic) in the one and only, Charleston!
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Getting to Charleston
Charleston International Airport has been voted a top airport in the country. The airport itself is small, but super nice, clean, and airy. There are great local food outlets like Caviar and Bananas for coffee or sandwiches and salads at lunch time. Our airport is small but mighty – CHS operates 60+ direct flights to 40+ destinations with more constantly being added. Getting here is a breeze.
The city is also easily accessible via US17, I26 and I95 if you are driving. We are about two hours from Myrtle Beach, 3 hours from Jacksonville, and 3 hours from Charlotte.
Local’s Guide to Charleston: Where to Stay
There are so many hotel choices when it comes to Charleston from large luxury properties to small boutique hotels and historic inns. The city is exploding with options! While there are many beautiful properties, here is where I would personally choose to stay in my own hometown.
The Dewberry
Here in Charleston, buildings can not be any taller than the church steeples (we’re the holy city, after all). The Dewberry is one of the tallest at eight stories high with one of the best rooftop views in the city. It is styled in mid-century decor with a charming, modern edge to 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 massive bathrooms with soaking tubs and marble everywhere.
We chose to stay here in our wedding night and it was such a treat to wake up at The Dewberry!
The Living Room is one of my favorite cozy places for a cocktail or head upstairs to the Citrus Club for an incredible rooftop view over the city.
And no trip is complete without a visit to their intimate spa. The Dewberry has created their own heavenly scent which you’ll smell throughout from the soap, shampoo, to candles. I am a frequent visitor to this spa as it is one of my favorite spas in Charleston!
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 (porches) and twinkling gas burning lanterns.
And, don’t miss the chance to try the multi course tasting menu at Zero Restaurant! I recommend booking a patio table.
The Restoration
The Restoration is perfect if you are traveling with family or for a girls weekend. The apartment style rooms feature high ceilings, multiple bed and baths, and full kitchen.
These aren’t your typical hotel suites – think a true Charleston residence with heart pine floors and exposed brick throughout.
Venture upstairs to their rooftop that features 360 degree views of Charleston and an extensive menu for lunch, happy hour, or dinner. Our family stayed here during our wedding weekend and returns here often.
Check out more of my favorites in this post:
Things to See & Do in Charleston
Charleston was founded in 1670 – that’s 350+ years ago – and is beaming with historical sites. Take a stroll along the historic battery, admire the architecture, stand on the sites of the civil war, or taste the authentic lowcountry cuisine based on old world ingredients.
There’s so much to see and do in Charleston, you’ll want to plan a second trip! As a Charleston native, here are some of my favorite things to do.
Shopping on King Street
Stroll down King Street and window shop or pop into some local favorites. Don’t miss a stop at Lake Pajamas, Croghan’s Jewel Box, Dumas, Candlefish, and more!
Venture over to the old city market to shop for authentic sweet grass baskets and find things from local artisans. Be sure to check out the Charleston themed jewelry at Gold Creations.
Visit a vintage market for local makers or look up my friends at AL&EM to see where they are popping up next so you can go home with permanent jewelry.
Stroll through the gardens at Middleton Place
There are many historic homes and gardens in Charleston, but I love Middleton Place for it’s manicured, English style gardens. It’s like strolling through Downton Abbey.
More than that, you can learn how the family lived and enlighten yourself on slavery and those who worked to make the plantation prosper.
The property is still owned by the Middleton descendants and includes their personal family heirlooms so it’s really special and authentic!
🎟 I love this tour of Middleton Place because it includes transportation from downtown plus lunch! This tour company is really fantastic and make it very fun – I’ve done the tour so can honestly recommend it! Book tickets and lunch in advance to make sure you get a spot!
Catch sunrise or sunset at the Battery
I absolutely love watching the sun go up and down. There’s no better place than seeing the sunset or sunrise than over the water. If you are downtown, swing by The Battery and take in the breathtaking lowcountry scenery.
Visit a local Charleston Beach
A can’t miss in my local’s guide to Charleston! You’re at the beach so you HAVE to pick one to spend a day. I lived on Folly growing up and love it for its laid back, eccentric, surfer vibe. There are some great restaurants like Taco Boy, Snapper Jack’s, and Rita’s to name a few.
Sullivan’s is my current go-to for the residential nature and long stretch of beach. I also love popping into Mex1 for tacos and margaritas after a beach day. If you are looking for something more resort-y and family friendly, Isle of Palms or Kiawah Island is the winner.
Step back in time at the Nathaniel Russell House
The Nathaniel Russell house is my favorite house museum. Maybe it’s because I grew up across the street from it attending school. But mostly, I love the cantilevered staircase and hearing how the family lived their lives in the old Charleston days.
Fun Fact: My husband and I did our wedding “first look” in the NRH garden.
Look for Dolphins
No matter how many hundreds of times I have seen dolphins, it never gets any less magical. Shem creek in Mount Pleasant is the best place to spot dolphins. There are many restaurants and bars to enjoy, just take my word for it and don’t get in the water there.
🐬 You can also book a boat cruise to Morris Island where you’ll spot plenty of dolphins! Check out the one I recommend here.
Sunday Farmer’s Market at Marion Square
If you are here on a Sunday, be sure to check out the farmer’s market in Marion Square. Grab a coffee and shop for local products and produce! And check out Second Sunday on King Street if you are here on the second Sunday of the month.
Get on the Water
Charleston is stunning by land, but even more beautiful by sea. Get on the water whether your friends have a boat, kayaking, or a sunset cruise aboard the Schooner Pride.
Get tickets here – it’s limited to 50 people so booking in advance is crucial! It is a beautiful tall ship to enjoy a sunset sail – just look at it below!
Take a Stroll
Take a stroll past Rainbow Row and down Tradd Street to admire the charming architecture, then make your way to the historic battery. Or smell the roses at Hampton Park, a stunning neighborhood park with rich history and pretty landscapes. Walking is the best way to get to see all of the charms of Charleston!
Book a walking tour with Bulldog Tours if you want to hear more about the past and history of Charleston. I’ve done their tours many times and always learn something new. It is such a great way to explore some of the hidden gems in Charleston with a local guide.
Check out all of my favorite things to see and do in Charleston in this post:
Best Restaurants in Charleston
Let me start by saying that nowhere in Charleston is locals only or “non-touristy”. Some places and areas are more touristy than others (East Bay Street), but there’s pretty much nowhere that visitors have not discovered. And that’s a good thing – we have amazing restaurants thanks to the renowned chefs.
Charleston boasts the most award winning chefs with numerous James Beard Award nominees and winners. Our chefs reinvented traditional lowcountry cuisine and added their own personalities to that.
Here are places that I love to visit regularly.
Chubby Fish
For a seafood centric, coastal town, Chubby Fish is one the best places for fresh, sustainable seafood in 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 5pm to put your name down if you want to eat before 9pm. Head over to Elliotborough Mini Bar for a cocktail while you wait.
Edmund’s Oast
Edmund’s Oast is one of my absolute favorites for lunch or dinner. I love sitting outside in the inviting courtyard for lunch or grabbing a spot at the inside bar for dinner or dessert. The dessert menu is often longer than the food menu.
Disclaimer: I had my wedding reception here and love everyone on the EO team so much!
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 menu changes daily, but there are always two apps, two entrees, and two desserts.
Park and Grove
The best brunch spot recently turned to a focus on dinner. Either one you choose, you won’t be disappointed at Park and Grove.
Basic Kitchen
If you are vegan, Basic Kitchen is the best place to cater to that, but it is by no means vegan only. They focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients so you’ll find lots of great vegetables, but also a pretty tasty burger!
For a few of my favorites: the basic bowl is so good with quinoa, sweet potato and chickpeas and the cauliflower “wings” are amazing! Be sure to try the beet margarita too.
The Ordinary
One of my top 5 faves in Charleston. The Ordinary is phenomenal, nothing ordinary about it! You have to get the oyster sliders and try a mix of small and large plates. If zucchini carpaccio is on the menu, it’s a must try.
The Obstinate Daughter
Located on Sullivan’s Island, Obstinate Daughter is another all time favorite for pasta. It is consistently good and I really love the atmosphere. Try the geechie frites – basically fried grits! And pop downstairs for ice cream sandwiches at Beardcat’s.
Xiao Bao Biscuit
If you are looking for a little asian fusion, Xiao Bao Biscuit is my favorite for their okonomiyaki.
Leon’s Oyster Shop
You’ve likely heard of Leon’s already if you’ve done any research and it is truly so good. It’s very casual, set inside a former car repair shop with the best food. My order: fried oyster sandwich (ask for it on a bun – how it was served originally) with cucumber salad, siam salad, raw oysters, hush puppies with honey butter, and soft serve ice cream.
167 Raw and 167 Sushi Bar
You have also probably heard of 167 Raw. And it is so good, but you need to get there before 6pm to get on the list. I love the tuna burger and ceviche! Their sister restaurant, 167 Sushi, does take reservations and is the best sushi experience I have ever had.
Pro Tip: Book a reservation for drinks at Bar 167 and then go in person to add your name to the list at 167 Raw restaurant before. Enjoy the bar while you wait!
Jackrabbit Filly
Located in North Charleston near Park Circle, Jackrabbit Filly is worth the short drive. It is one of the best Chinese fusion meals in a completely unpretentious space.
Chasing Sage
Chasing Sage has become a recent favorite of ours. It is very vegetarian friendly and the food is seriously so good. The menu rotates seasonally focusing on fresh vegetables and small plates – which I love so I can sample all the things!
Note: The have recently closed in September 2024, but the owners are still doing fun pop-up dinners in the space. Still check out their instagram for unique offerings.
Charleston BBQ Options
And if you eat meat, Lewis Barbecue and Rodney Scott‘s are the best there is.
Read all about my favorite places to eat in Charleston in these posts:
Where to Drink in Charleston
These are my favorite places to have a drink in Charleston. From the best breweries, my favorite rooftops, and charming Charleston wine bars, I have you covered!
Breweries/Day Drinking
- Palmetto Brewing – often have live music outside and great variety of drinks
- Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co – try the veggie burger or mahi sandwich with a “something cold” beer
- Revelry Brewing – great local spot with rooftop bar; lazy lover is my fave beer
- HomeTeam BBQ – home of the infamous game changer
- Tavern and Table at Shem Creek – great drinks and snacks, wonderful sunset spot
- Island Cabana Bar – dockside views of the Ravenel Bridge (my new spot!)
Best Charleston Wine Bars
- Goat Sheep Cow – get the crack cheese and thank me later
- The Tippling House – stop in here for a drink if you are having dinner at Chez Nous
- Graft – great wine and great people!
- Bin 152 – cute European style wine bar right on King Street!
Charleston Rooftop Bars
- The Watch – 360 degree views of Charleston and great cocktails
- Citrus Club – highest rooftop in the city with spectacular views
Downtown Charleston Nightlife
If you are looking to head out late whether for a Charleston bachelorette party or with some friends, these are great choices. They are all open late and often have live music from bands to DJs.
- Uptown Social
- Vintage Lounge
- Frontier Lounge
- Ritual
- Trio
- Republic
- Silver Dollar
- By The Way
- Share House
- and tons more!
Climate
Charleston is beautiful year round as there is always something in bloom!
Most people tend to gravitate to Charleston in the spring and summer, but the winter is sometimes my favorite.
Although I live for summer, it doesn’t typically get too cold here and it is not uncommon to have sunny and 75 degree January days! Plus, you can not beat Christmas in Charleston!
Summer is great if you are going to the beaches! It gets HOT AND HUMID in July and August so it’s not the most ideal time to explore the historic downtown area.
Overall, Spring and Fall are the best times to visit Charleston for comfortable weather to explore the sites of downtown Charleston.
➡️ Read Next: Best Times to Visit Charleston and my favorite months as a local!
What to Wear in Charleston SC
A locals guide to Charleston weather and navigating the climate to best plan your outfits.
What to wear in Charleston in Summer
Charleston spring weather is typically March – May and is usually very comfortable in the 70s during the day. It’s warm enough for dresses with a light coat and some days you may still need pants.
Charleston Summers are HOT and humid especially during July and August so recommend packing flowy clothing. You WILL sweat simply walking out the door in these two months.
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Sandals
- Sundresses
- Skirts and/or cute sets
- Swimsuit and cover ups
- Light jacket for spring weather
- Something trendy for dinners, but know everywhere is more casual than you think 🙂
I wrote a whole post on this topic which you can find here:
What to wear in Charleston in Winter
Charleston’s coldest month is January, but some years it’s cold and some are more moderate. You never know what the temps will be like in the winter months so check the 10 day forecast and pack accordingly.
Typically jeans, a sweater, and a jacket are plenty for even the coldest days.
- Jeans/leggings
- Sweaters/blouse
- Sweater Dress
- Long Sleeve Dresses or Maxi Dresses
- Boots & Booties
- Tennis Shoes
- Coat
Local’s Guide to Charleston Travel Tips
- If you want to bike, head out to the beaches or the battery/south of broad area for a safe and more enjoyable experience. Please do not ride bikes on King Street in the middle of the day. It sounds fun, but the city is sadly not built for biking with the narrow and often one way streets (plus traffic).
- Our airport is typically very easy to get through security. I usually try to get there one hour early, but I also do not check bags.
- Charleston is very humid in the summertime – you will sweat just walking outside. Be prepared.
- Read my restaurant guide before you travel for all the best places to dine.
- Speaking of, I highly recommend making reservations several weeks in advance.
- Charleston is very safe. Check out this post for more safety tips in Charleston, SC for visitors.
Charleston Map
Finally, here is a great map with everything pinned so you can get a visual of my local’s guide to charleston
Safe Travels!
I hope to see you in Charleston soon! Please feel free to ask any questions about my locals guide to Charleston in the comments below or send me a DM on instagram!
Hi Lindsey-
I loved reading your blog. My husband and I will be celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary in Charleston the end of September. We also have my nieces wedding.
I’m not the best at planning an itinerary for a trip, I’d rather someone help me with that.
We arrive Wednesday, September 24th and leave Monday, September 29th.
I’ve taken many of your suggestions and plan to do my best to do them.
Can you help me with anything to make this trip a little more relaxing with a plan?
gosh, I sure appreciate any help you can give me.
Also, my husband prefers a little more quiet accomodations rather than downtown Charleston. Do you recommend staying at a beach cottage at Isle of Palms or Sullivans??
Again, THANK YOU, Lindsey!
Kate