E X P L O R E CHARLESTON, SC
W H E N
T O
V I S I T
The best time to visit Charleston is from March to May or from September to November when temperatures are mild – but not stifling. Hotel rates, however, will be high, especially around Easter. Also, the city will be thick with crowds "ooh-ing" and "ahh-ing" at the blooming magnolia trees, the Southern-fried food, and their tour guide's ghost stories. Steer clear of high prices and tourist swarms by visiting in the late fall or early winter.
June - August Although these months fall into the off-season, families with kids out of school flood the city. If you decide to brave it – average high temperatures reach the upper 80s – pack sunscreen and bottled water. Since August is Charleston's rainiest month, plan to bring an umbrella, too. Beat the heat with trips to the nearby shores of Sullivan's Island or Folly Beach.
March - May Temperate weather accompanies blooming trees and flowers, making spring one of the best times to vacation in Charleston. The warm 60- to 80degree temperatures usher in a colorful array of blooms throughout the city, which you can tour during the annual Festival of Houses and Gardens.
September - November Charleston's peak tourist season goes well into November. But the warm, Eden-like weather might make the trip worth your while. Temperatures linger in the high 70s before the wintertime cooldown begins in December.
December - February You just might be able to find some deals if you travel during the offseason. And you don't even have to bundle up: Temperatures scarcely dip below 40, hovering in the 50 to 60s. Plus, the Holiday Festival of Lights continues through the end of December.
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O U R F A V O R I T E A C T I V I T I E S
1. Folly Beach is a city on Folly Island, in South Carolina, just south of Charleston. It’s home to Folly Beach Pier, stretching more than 1,000 feet into the ocean. Center Street is lined with surf and souvenir shops. Folly Beach County Park has picnic areas and a pelican rookery. As well as beaches and wildlife-rich habitats, Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve has views of Morris Island Lighthouse. 2. The Historic City Market is a historic market complex in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. Established in the 1790s, the market stretches for four city blocks from the architecturally-significant Market Hall, which faces Meeting Street, through a continuous series of one-story market sheds, the last of which terminates at East Bay Street. 3. Charleston Harbour Tours can be enjoyed at any time of day, but is there anything better than watching the sunset while sailing at sea? 4. Sullivan's Island is nestled at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor and neighbor to the Isle of Palms. Sullivan's Island is an inviting mix of wide beaches and watersports, history and folklore, local restaurants and shops. It's is close to Charleston making it a perfect day trip. 5. Walk the Battery if you want to see some traditional and beautiful Charleston homes, head to the Battery, and wander around the cobblestone streets. You'll be in awe of all the vintage door knockers, colorful houses, and porches, greenery, and ivy! 6. Magnolia's & Middleton Plantations are two of the most popular plantations in Charleston. Magnolia has been selected as one of "America's Most Beautiful Gardens," and is the only garden honored with this distinction in the State of South Carolina! 7. Rainbow Row arguably the most iconic & photographed spot in Charleston. Rainbow Row is the name for a series of thirteen colorful historic houses in Charleston, South Carolina. It represents the longest cluster of Georgian row houses in the United States. 8. Candlefish candle-making class is a great way to do something different and take a break from the heat and walking the streets. This is a fun and educational opportunity to spend time with your group and to walk away with a fun souvenir! You pour your own oil, wax, and label your own glass and fix your wick. 9. Walk up and down King Street enjoy shopping! From local boutiques to larger more well-known shops, you can find anything you're looking for. 10. Charleston Waterfront Park includes a pier where you can watch the ships and sit on the bench swings, lots of cute coffee shops and regular shops in close vicinity, several old and fancy-looking fountains, and a walking path that leads you along the waterfront to the White Point Garden Park from where you can find yourself wandering the most charming cobblestone streets and admire the historically beautiful houses. BONUS: Spa Treatment at the Amethyst Bar Manicure at Mylkbar Sweet Jessamine Flower Truck
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H T N T C
O W T O A K E ' T H E O T E B O O K ' O U R O F H A R L E S T O N
One of the most iconic films to use Charleston as its backdrop is undoubtedly The Notebook. While Nicholas Sparks originally set the book in New Bern, North Carolina, the movie places Noah and Allie in Seabrook, South Carolina, a small town about an hour south of Charleston. Most of the movie was filmed in Charleston, however, with Mount Pleasant's Old Village and parts of King Street serving as downtown Seabrook and several private and public homes in the area setting the historically accurate backdrop. Here are 7 Charleston landmarks you'll recognize from the movie: 1. The American Theater The setting for Noah and Allie's first date—followed by lying down and dancing in the middle of the street—is the American Theater, a 1940s movie theater on King Street in downtown Charleston. 2. Boone Hall Plantation Scenes of the exterior of Allie's family's summer house were filmed at the iconic Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant. The plantation, which has been a working farm for more than 300 years, is open to the public for tours 3. Calhoun Mansion the site of most of the fights Allie has with her parents—were actually filmed in the Calhoun Mansion, a grand and gilded circa-1876 mansion near the battery in Charleston that is also open to the public for tours. 4. College of Charleston In the movie, Allie leaves South Carolina behind to attend Sarah Lawrence College in New York. However, those scenes were in fact filmed on College of Charleston's picturesque downtown campus, 5. High Cotton After years apart, Noah goes into town (actually meant to be Charleston this time) and spots Allie on the street. He follows after her until she walks into a restaurant where she is greeted by her fiancé Lon, setting off Noah's obsession with renovating the old house and winning Allie back. The restaurant Allie and Lon are dining in is High Cotton, an actual restaurant serving classic Lowcountry fare in an upscale space that isn't much different from what you see in the movie. 6. The William Aiken House Right next door to the American Theater on King Street is the historic William Aiken House, where Allie is trying on her wedding dress when she sees the picture of Noah standing in front of the house he fixed up in the paper. The bright yellow house was built in 1810 and epitomizes the best of Charleston architecture. 7. Cypress Gardens Noah and Allie's eventual reunion begins with Noah taking Allie out in a rowboat to see the hundreds of geese on the lake behind his house. The beautiful scenery was also filmed near Charleston, at Cypress Gardens in the town of Moncks Corner.
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TOP ACCOMMODATIONS We also like to keep VRBO as an option! It is a fun alternative and there are plenty of great choices.
1. Hotel Bennett The south’s grandest new luxury hotel, Hotel Bennett is inspired by native Charlestonians and European classic design. Located on the fashionable King Street, the prominent entrance opens upon the corner of historic Marion Square. Style and elegance come to life throughout with unique appointments to the accommodations and guest amenities. Custom furnishings and local artwork complement the exquisite dining experiences in Gabrielle, La Patisserie, Camellias, and Fiat Lux. 2. Renaissance Charleston Historic District is a unique destination hotel in downtown Charleston, SC, They offer a location near the city's most famous attractions. Delight in an eclectic design from the minute you enter our hotel and let them greet you with smiles from their friendly staff who embody Southern hospitality. Go for a swim in our hotel's outdoor saltwater pool or recharge with a workout in the gym. 3. The Dewberry Charleston Bordering Marion Square, The Dewberry is a local landmark, as well as a marquee destination for residents and visitors alike. Citrus Club, a whimsical rooftop cocktail lounge can be found on the 8th-floor terrace. Enjoy dining at the Living Room designed as a true living room, complete with a wraparound patio.
4. The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel Rested off the beaten path, this historic downtown Charleston hotel offers guests serenity in a vibrant city. Their history of hospitality dates back to 1853 and includes world-class accommodations, dining, event spaces, and amenities.
5. Emeline Hotel For the soulful sojourner, for the inquisitive local. For those who seek the new over the known, while wandering through the past. From our central perch in Charleston, welcome to Emeline.
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TOP DINING EXPERIENCES 1. Basic Kitchen is located in the heart of downtown Charleston, Basic Kitchen is housed in a historic building with floor-to-ceiling windows and a covered courtyard filled with plants and herbs used by the kitchen. 2. Poogans Porch provides a true taste of the South! They have shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, pimento cheese balls, and all the southern dishes you need to try. Choose to be seated on the porch if weather permits. You'll get an incredible view of the charming side streets of Charleston. 3. 5Church posh new American dining destination & cocktail bar in a former church with dramatic decor. Make reservations ahead of time for brunch, lunch, and dinner on their website! 4. Restoration Hotel Rooftop Bar "The Watch" is a great location to sit back, soak up the sun and enjoy a few drinks and snacks! Try Romero's Bad Habit and The Ghost of Strawberry Church. The House Truffle Frites and on the Ham and Cheddar Hushpuppies are delicious! 5. Hanks Seafood the bar or community table offer faster service. Definitely don't limit the bartenders to the cocktail menu because they are so talented they can whip you up anything you're in the mood for! Try the ceviche and the crab cakes!
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TOP 5 HIDDEN GEMS
1. White Point Gardens While exploring the Charleston Battery, you may come across a quaint, quiet waterfront park known as White Point Garden. It’s tucked away under grand oak trees, yet offers stunning ocean views. Civil War and Revolutionary War Cannons, Historic Monuments and Statues, The Gazebo-Style Bandstand, and Oyster shell pathways. 2. Fort Sumpter is located in Charleston Harbor and is only accessible by the concession-operated tour boat. Fort Sumter does not charge an entrance fee; however, tickets for the authorized concession-operated ferry are required and may be purchased in advance. It is rich with history and fun to explore. If you are interested in the Civil War Era then this place is a must-visit because of the information that is provided. 3. The Pineapple Fountain is a focal point of the Charleston Waterfront Park, which people have been enjoying since it opened in 1990 – the spring after Hurricane Hugo. Pineapple motifs are common in Charleston and represent hospitality. 4. Moss Covered Alleys in South of Broad Famous for its lush gardens and detailed iron gate-work, South of Broad is best explored on foot or by horse-drawn carriage. Admire the flourishing window boxes and peek into the private gardens. Look for urban alleyways like Stoll’s Alley, Philadelphia Alley, or Price’s Alley, each offering an intimate view and journey back in time. 5. Pitt Street Bridge in Mount Pleasant Once a trolley bridge that connected Sullivan's Island and Mount Pleasant, the Pitt Street Bridge is now a site for recreation and relaxation. Fish off the pier or kayak through the Charleston Harbor from this hidden gem within the Old Village Historic District.
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C A R E T R A V E L
You're learning all about Charleston, but you may be wondering what to do with all this information! That's what CARE Travel is here for. There are a couple of options moving forward. 1. DIY After seeing all of the incredible options for accommodation, dining, activities, and more, you're ready to book things on your own and piece together the Charleston trip of your dreams. We love that option and have a site where you can book the different parts of your vacation. Travel insurance, tours, transfers, and more! Check it out here.
2. Book through CARE Travel Maybe now you're realizing you don't actually want to put this vacation together yourself, or you just want some professional input. That's what we're here for! We would love to meet with you and make your travel dreams a reality. Contact us!
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I N S T A G R A M B U C K E T L I S T
Sugar Bake Shop Rainbow Row Waterfront Park The American Theater (The Notebook) Folly Beach Camellias at Hotel Bennett Horsedrawn carriage ride The Angel Oak Tree Candlefish Candle Making 8
F U N
F A C T S
1. North America’s longest cable-stayed bridge, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, spans the Charleston Harbor, connecting historic Charleston and Mount Pleasant. 2. Charleston is home to one of the oldest trees in the country. Just outside the city of Charleston resides one of the country’s oldest living trees—The Angel Oak. Located on the beautiful Johns Island, this live oak is estimated to be around 500 years old and counting. 3. South Carolina Has a Monkey Colony. The Lowcountry of South Carolina is full of beautiful barrier islands and marshland. One small barrier island off the coast of Beaufort has an unusual population of furry residents. On Morgan Island’s 2,000 acres of land roams a colony of more than 3,000 Rhesus monkeys. 4. South Carolina Produces More Peaches than Georgia. Contrary to popular belief, Georgia is not actually the largest producer of peaches in the Southeast. We may talk a lot about Georgia peaches (the state even has peaches on their license plates), but South Carolina actually has more peaches than its southern neighbor. 5. Pineapples are a symbol of hospitality in Charleston, a tradition that goes back to Colonial days when returning sea captains would spear a pineapple outside their home. This was to let the captain’s friends know he had returned safely, and that they could come over to hear his stories from the high seas. 6. Charleston calls itself the “Holy City” because of its numerous churches and their steeples that puncture the skyline. 7. South Carolina’s oldest public building is a former gunpowder storage facility called the Powder Magazine. Built-in 1713, the small building features three-foot thick walls and a thin, gabled roof where, if all the powder were to ignite, it would send the explosion shooting upwards rather than outwards.
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F O O D
Charleston is a city filled with incredible dining options. We wanted to share a few more of our favorites. Check them out on Instagram! Brunch & Lunch
Drinks
@blackmagiccafe: Cute decor & patio on James Island
Citrus Club at @thedewberrycharleston: Boho Rooftop
@callieshotlittlebisuit: A must!
@camelliaschs: Pink champagne bar
@earlybirddiner: Breakfast all day
@canechs: Caribbean drinks
@fiveloavescafe: Something for everyone
@cocktailclubchs: Speakeasy
@millersallday: Try the meringue waffles
Eleve at the @grandbohemiancharleston: rooftop
@lewisbarbeque: BBQ!
@goatsheepcownorth: Wine & cheese
@queenstreetgrocery: Crepes & hot sammies
@revelrybrewing: Beers with a view
@snobchs: Super popular spot
@starsrestaurant: Great DJ, dancing & rooftop
@toastofcharleston: Bottomless brunch
@venduerooftop: Harbor views
Dinner @5churchcharleston: Renovated church
@fleetlanding: Waterfront
@82queenchas: Lovely patio
@frannieandthefox: Italian at the stunning @hotelmeline
@butcherandbee: A really good meal
@poogansporchchs: Southern flare in an old Victorian
@Darling_oyster_bar: Trendy
@theobsinatedaughter: On Sullivan's Island
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