Experiencing Charleston

finest of southern charm

by: Carla Pallares

There’s only one true coastal city in the United States that conceptualizes historical southern charm with quintessential beach life- Charleston, South Carolina. It’s known to be one of the most beautiful cities in the country and it’s no wonder why it’s so popular with travelers all over the world. From its delicious cuisine, style and charming streets, seaside adventures, and deep historical roots, Charleston is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT:

As a popular vacation destination, there really is no bad time to visit Charleston. For beach-goers, Charleston is perfect right before and after the traditional summer season (right before memorial day and right after labor day). You’ll get the best of what the summer months offer without the peak season price tag and the unforgiving humidity. For those wanting to truly explore the city for all it has to offer, I strongly suggest booking your trip during late fall or early winter. I traveled to Charleston at the beginning of December and it was perfect. It’s not too cold and not too hot unless you plan to be out at night and then you need a sweater and jacket to keep you comfortable. In December, Charleston highlights its holiday decor and the entire vibe of the city is sure to put you in the holiday spirit while enjoying its robust history and charm.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE:

Visit Rainbow Row: Rainbow Row is Charleston’s most iconic street with its 13 colorful Georgian Townhomes. The architecture is unreal and a must-do during your visit. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes to walk around and see the beauty of it all. If it appeals to you, join a walking tour to see and get the story behind the mansions and even haunted mansions. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, book a walking ghost tour and see Charleston from a completely different lens. See the iconic Pineapple Fountain: The Pineapple is a symbol of hospitality. Back in the colonial days, true hospitality and generosity were hard to come by, and thus the pineapple became a symbol of true southern charm. If you were a guest in someone’s home, the pineapple was a sign of wealth and great hospitality. The Pineapple Fountain is a visual representation of the hospitality of the city and you’ll never feel more at home than a cozy stroll midafternoon to slow down a busy day.

Walk King Street: King Street is one of the main and popular roads in downtown Charleston. Upper King

has a more lively scene for new restaurants and nightlife, while the Southern part of the street has more shops and restaurants. You’ll want to see and experience all of it. When walking these streets, you’ll catch yourself feeling moments of deja vu and you might remember seeing these surroundings somewhere else. King Street has been a trendy film location for major motion pictures for decades. You might want to do a little research before you go and see which of your favorite movies have been filmed here. One of my favorites is definitely the Notebook and it made my walk through King Street so much more surreal and nostalgic.

Visit a plantation: Visiting a plantation is a must if you come to Charleston. Although plantations have a sad history, you’ll learn so much from this experience and you really won’t regret it. I visited the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens (Magnolia) which honestly was something I’ve never experienced before and really enjoyed it. Founded in 1676 by the Drayton family, Magnolia Plantation has survived the centuries and witnessed the history of our nation unfold before it from the American Revolution through the Civil War and beyond. It is the oldest public tourist site in the Lowcountry and the oldest public garden in America. 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! The breathtaking views of the gardens and the knowledge I gained about a piece of our country’s history, it was absolutely a highlight of my trip.

WHERE TO STAY:

Charleston is full of beautiful hotels. From name-brand resorts to chic boutiques, bed and breakfasts, and insane Airbnbs, your stay will absolutely permeate southern style reimagined. The Emeline: I loved every inch of this place. Make sure to get a drink outside by the lights and fireplace. You’ll feel all of the southern charm here.

Zero George: Classic but the ultimate southern chic. You won’t want to leave this place.

The Ryder Hotel:

Surf meets Southern. Everything is clean, modern, and classy.

WHERE TO

EAT: Charleston cuisine is something else so go with an appetite and experience it all. From fresh oysters to churro donuts, they are operating on another level here. Far from your basic shrimp and grits, Charleston deserves a spot amongst the greatest gourmet capitals of the United States.

Some of my favorite eats are below:

Darling Oyster Bar,167 Raw, Husk, Basic Kitchen, Obstinate Daughter, and Felix. Charleston left me wanting more so I will definitely be visiting again soon. If you are going there solo, or with your girlfriends or even with your family, you will have the best time because it’s that special. There is something for everyone and every type of getaway. But again, it’s unique and it’s the one and only destination for true ‘Southern Charm.’