Traveler of Charleston Mag - Summer 2014 by Traveler Communications Group

july – september 2014

TRAVELER

of Charleston

Visitor Magazine Tours Attractions Restaurants Shopping Events Articles Coupons Maps

Guide to Family Fun Which Beach is Best? Dinner With a View

THE SOURCE FOR ALL THINGS CHARLESTON COMPLIMENTARY TRAVELERof Charleston.com

FREE

Parking

Photo: Faith McDavid

Departing from the “RED BARN” Charleston’s Oldest Carriage Company

Present this Ad for

FREE PARKING WITH YOUR TOUR

We also offer a combination Harbor and Carriage tour for one low price

Tickets: 8 Guignard Street (in the Barn)

Try Palmetto’s newest Combo Tour

The Charleston Trot and Walk A 1 hour carriage tour followed by a 1-1/2 hour walking tour. • the most comprehensive overview of the sites and history of the city • the same tour-guide for both ensures no repetitive information • includes entry into one of Charleston’s historic landmarks • $40.00 Adults, $26 Children

www.palmettocarriage.com | 843.723.8145 Complimentary golf cart pick-up + drop-off! Call for details

Contents 10 FAMILY FUN IN THE HOLY CITY

DEPARTMENTS 6 14 42 50 58 63 64 69

Welcome to Charleston See + Do Shop + Savor Eat + Drink Calendar of Events Web Extras Maps Directory of Advertisers

FEATURES Family fun in the Holy City Charleston Area Beach Guide Shopping Guide Rooftop Dining Spots Sample Locally Made Spirits Things to Love About the Lowcountry photo: South Carolina Aquarium

10 40 44 52 53 62

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From the Publisher WELCOME TO CHARLESTON! With its historic sites, nature excursions, beaches and kid-friendly attractions, Charleston is the perfect vacation destination for families. While the city is packed with activities kids of all ages will love, we’ve listed some of our favorites in an age-by-age guide beginning on Page 10. Not sure which beach is best? Well, the short answer is that they all are! But check out our Charleston Area Beach Guide on Page 40 for details on each beach and to find the sandy spot that fits your tastes. From July 4 celebrations to movies in the park and fun foodie events, our calendar is full of activities to keep you busy during your visit. Be sure to stop by travelerofcharleston.com for an expanded calendar of events. While you’re here, download our free mobile app overflowing with visitor information, including maps, parking details and lists of attractions, restaurants and tours. Did we mention it’s free? Search “Charleston SC” on iTunes or Google Play. Connect with us on Facebook (travelermag) and Twitter (@traveler_mag) and Instagram (travelerofcharleston) if you have questions during your visit and to share your photos and experiences. We love seeing how you’re enjoying #Charleston!

TRAVELER

of Charleston

Member of: Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau; Charleston Restaurant Association; Summerville/Dorchester Chamber of Commerce.

Contributors Keith Simmons has an extensive publishing, marketing and advertising background and founded Traveler Magazine in 2005. His purpose was to develop an affordable and effective visitor medium where businesses could advertise their service. Traveler is now one of the leading visitor resources in the city. Keith lives in Mount Pleasant with his wife and sons. He enjoys fishing, kayaking and spending time with his family.

Holly Fisher is a long-time writer and editor with a love of telling stories. She has lived in Charleston more than a decade and enjoys sharing the tales of the Holy City with visitors and newcomers to the area. Holly lives in the Mount Pleasant area with her husband, daughter and three dogs. When she isn’t at her computer writing for work and for fun, you can find her reading or doing CrossFit.

Sally Heineman honed her knack for graphic design at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA where she received a BFA in Graphic Design. Drawn to the South and the love of everything Lowcountry, Sally opened the doors of her graphic design business, Heineman Design, in 1992.

Publisher/Founder.................... Keith Simmons Editor........................................... Holly Fisher Graphic Designer...................... Heineman Design Distribution................................ Denise Fletcher Distribution................................ Brian Bean Distribution................................ Debbi Farrell

info@TRAVELERofCharleston.com | 843-580-9054 | TRAVELERofCharleston.com TRAVELER of Charleston is produced by the Traveler Communications Group, LLC, and is published four times yearly and distributed to various locations throughout the Charleston area, including all visitors centers, hotels, airports, beach rentals, grocery stores, high-traffic areas, advertiser locations and many other points throughout the surrounding area. Concept, design and contents of TRAVELER of Charleston are copyrighted and may not be reproduced. www.travelerofcharleston.com.

The copy and advertising deadline for the next issue is August 29, 2014. 6 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com july-september 2014

teed n a r Gua AVE A TO H TIME AT GRE

Family fun in the Holy City BY HOLLY FISHER

hether your children love nature and water or games and sports, you’ll find a host of great activities to keep them busy during your Charleston vacation. We’ve compiled a guide of must-see attractions and activities for kids broken down by age. Most of these activities are suitable for children of multiple ages – and even adults – so you’re guaranteed to have a great time even if your family is made up of varying ages and interests.

Toddler/Preschool The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is suitable for ages 3 months to 12 years. Little visitors have plenty to keep them entertained – water stations, art center, medieval castle, pirate ship and grocery store with pint-sized shopping carts. Admission 10 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com july-september 2014

is free for 1 year and younger and there’s a specific play area for the littlest visitors just learning to crawl and walk. Plus the museum offers a cool alternative on particularly warm Charleston days. “The Big Adventure” is a summertime exhibit available through September.

photo: Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum of the Lowcountry photo: Charles Towne Landing photo: South Carolina Aquarium

stop off and explore The Adventure, a replica trading vessel docked at the park.

It encourages imagination and exploration as children use tools, make choices, set goals and solve problems. Children will play in a physically and mentally challenging three-dimensional game board. 25 Ann St., Charleston | explorecml.org 843-853-8962 (closed Mondays) Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site has plenty of open space where children can run wild. And kids will love the Animal Forest, a natural habitat zoo with bison, puma and black bears. With 7 miles of nature trails for walking and biking, the littlest legs will be ready for an afternoon nap. Be sure to

The park hosts a number of events throughout the year, including living history demonstrations and monthly 17th-century cannon firing demonstrations (see Calendar of Events on Page 58). Admission is free for children 5 and younger and strollers are available at no charge. 1500 Old Towne Road, Charleston charlestownelanding.travel 843-852-4200 Palmetto Islands County Park is an excellent choice for tiny travelers. The Big Toy playground has a special pint-sized area just for toddlers and preschoolers. Children can explore the many trails or run through the open fields. The park is also home to Splash Island Waterpark. Open daily through Aug. 15 and weekends through Labor Day, this park has slides, a lazy river and a swirling water ride. It also has a separate area with a shallow pool ideal for tiny swimmers who want to do more splashing than sliding. Park admission is $1 per person; separate admission required for waterpark. 444 Needlerush Parkway, Mount Pleasant | ccprc.com | 843-884-0832 july-september 2014 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 11

Elementary School Age At the South Carolina Aquarium, journey from South Carolina’s mountains to the sea, exploring native animals and plants in a variety of exhibits of birds, plants, reptiles and plenty of sea creatures from turtles to sharks. Kids will love “National Geographic’s Sea Monsters” playing in the 4-D Theater and the daily dive shows in the Great Tank. If you have extra time, take a tour of the Sea Turtle Hospital, where sick and injured turtles are nursed back to health and usually released back into the ocean at one of Charleston’s area beaches. Tours are offered daily at noon and 2 p.m. (separate ticket required). 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston scaquarium.org | 843-720-1990 Get wet and wild at one of the three Charleston County waterparks. Located within larger parks in North Charleston, Mount Pleasant and James Island, the parks are a great way for kids to cool off during the hot summer days. On Wednesdays during July and August, various parks will be hosting Nickelodeon characters SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora, Diego and Blue from “Blue’s Clues.” For directions and hours for each waterpark: ccprc.com. With the promise of searching for shells and sharks’ teeth, kids will be eager to board a boat and head to barrier islands for one of the many eco-tours. Along the way, they can learn about the Lowcountry’s salt marshes and barrier islands and the natural plants and wildlife in those areas. For families who love the water, try kayak tours, canoeing or stand-up paddle boarding in Shem Creek – a popular dolphin playground. Adventurous types might want to check out flyboarding or parasailing. Or simply relax with a dolphin cruise, sunset cruise in the Charleston harbor. Kids love fire trucks and they can get their fill at the North Charleston and American LaFrance Fire Museum and Educational Center. The museum houses the largest collection of professionally restored American 12 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com july-september 2014

LaFrance fire apparatus in the country, including 18 fire trucks and one-of-akind firefighting artifacts. The center also has interactive exhibits featuring real smoke, hands-on displays, children’s play area complete with fireman’s pole and a fire truck simulator. 4975 Centre Pointe Drive, North Charleston | legacyofheroes.org 843-740-5550

Pre-teen/Teen Even the most discerning teenager will get excited about Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park. Bounce and jump on the giant trampolines and then flip and land in a pit filled with 10,000 foam cubes. Or try the Sky Slam and dunk like a NBA star. This family friendly attraction opened recently, so it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors. Purchase your tickets in advance to guarantee a specific jump time. The park is open daily with extended summer hours. Jumpers under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign for them. 411 Wando Park Blvd., Mount Pleasant | skyzone.com/Charleston 843-588-5789 Wild Blue Ropes, one of Charleston’s newest attractions, is an aerial high ropes challenge course. Participants can navigate through the 66 course elements (from 15 feet to 35 feet high) while secured with a special harness system. The course takes one to four hours. There is a Saferoller course consisting of seven elements for younger children. Open 3-8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 8 p.m. weekends (last arrival 6 p.m.). 1595 Highland Ave., Charleston wildblueropes.com | 888-898-8050 Freshfields Village on Kiawah Island (freshfieldsvillage.com) hosts Starlight Cinema at 8:30 p.m. each Wednesday in July. Movies include “Monsters University,” “Frozen,” “Here Comes the Boom” and “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.” Whether your kids love mini golf, go-karts or arcade games, you’ll be able to keep them occupied for hours at two local fun parks and miniature golf courses. Frankie’s Fun Park in North

photo: Charleston River Dogs

photo: Charleston County Parks

Charleston (frankiesfunpark.com) has bumper boats, a batting cage, rock wall, mini golf, oval slick track and more. Blackbeard’s Cove in Mount Pleasant (blackbeardscove.net) has has go-karts, two mini golf courses, an arcade, jump castles, gemstone mining and a climbing. Plus, parents can relax at the outdoor Tiki Bar with a summer beverage while the kids play. Blackbeard’s is open until midnight through Aug. 30. Throughout July and August, enjoy an evening of fun at the ballpark. The Charleston RiverDogs play at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park on the banks of the

Ashley River. The minor league team is known for its festive atmosphere and creative promotions so fans are sure to be entertained. Plus, the concession stands offer a variety of unusual hot dogs, a PB&J Jalapeno Bacon Burger and beer shakes. 360 Fishburne St., Charleston riverdogs.com | 843-577-3647

Fun for all ages: Head to one of Charleston’s beaches for a day of sun and sand. Check out the Charleston Area Beach Guide on Page 40. july-september 2014 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 13

See + Do

Charleston is known for its beauty, history and fantastic harbor. Many experienced touring companies are ready to show you a great time. How to use this magazine: You’ll find each type of tour and attraction categorized for easy reference. Many listings include a map grid locator. Find the grid location, then reference the maps on pages 64 through 68.

WHETHER YOU’RE A HISTORY BUFF, WATER ENTHUSIAST OR SIMPLY ENJOY STROLLING THE COBBLESTONE STREETS OF CHARLESTON YOU’LL FIND PLENTY OF WAYS TO EXPLORE THE HOLY CITY. Tour historic plantation homes, learn about the city’s spooky side with a ghost tour or see Charleston from the water.

SEE + DO

ART & THEATER ACTIVITIES 34 West Theater Company 200 Meeting St. • Charleston • (Map H:7) 843-901-9343 • 34west.org • Original live theater in the heart of Charleston. Whether it's our hilarious “Doo Wops and Beauty Shops" or the thrilling "Dangerous Corner," we invite you to relax, unwind and laugh with friend. Fun drinks and savory bites are standing by.

As early as the 1700’s, Limners (Traveling Artists) ﬂocked to Charleston. Many were portrait painters like Samuel Morse, who eventually threw in the brush and invented Morse code.

Benne Wafers are a uniquely Lowcountry snack. Dating back to Colonial times, the wafers came to America from East Africa during the slave trade era. “Benne” is the Bantu word for “sesame.” Sesame – with its mild, nutty taste – was wildly planted throughout the South.

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SEE + DO

ART & THEATER ACTIVITIES

COMBO TOURS

The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre & Shoppe

Carriage & Harbor Combo Tour

164 Church St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7/8) 843-WE SMILE (937-6453) charlestonmysteries.com • Featuring Sherlock Holmes and the Charleston History Mystery, the family oriented Pirate Mystery Show, and the classic whodunit Inspector NoClue’s Murder Mystery. Live entertainment most evenings and some “beat-the-heat” matinees. Audience participation. Appetizers, desserts, beer/wine. Mystery books/gifts.

The Sound of Charleston 150 Meeting St. at Circular Congregational Church • (Map H:7) • 843-270-4903 soundofcharleston.com • Experience the unique sounds that define Charleston’s rich musical heritage – gospel, Gershwin, music of the Civil War, light classics & jazz – all presented by professional artists in a live 75-minute concert.

CARRIAGE TOURS Palmetto Carriage Works 8 Guignard St. • (Map: H:7) • 843-723-8145 palmettocarriage.com • Departs from The Big Red Barn every 15 to 20 minutes, rain or shine, beginning at 9 a.m. Tours are one hour long, covering about 25 blocks of residential and historic districts. Guides are city licensed. See our ad on the inside front cover.

Harbor Tours • 10 Wharfside St. • (Map :J:5/6) Palmetto Carriage • 8 Guignard Street 888-224-5037 or 843-722-1112 charlestonharbortours • Harbor Tours departs from the Maritime Center three times daily with a 90-minute live narrated sightseeing cruise aboard the 1920s style Bay Steamer – Carolina Belle. Palmetto Carriage tour departs from the Big Red Barn every 20-30 minutes beginning at 9 a.m. The one-hour tour covers 25 to 30 blocks of the historic and residential districts. Adults $36.50, Children 4-11 $2.

Ghost Walking & Harbor Combo Tour For tickets: 10 Wharfside St. • (Map: J:5/6) online at charlestonharbortours.com or bulldogtours.com • Zerve Ticketing at 888-224-5037 or 843-722-1112 • Take one of Charleston’s best Ghost Tours and a Harbor of History Tour aboard the Carolina Belle. You get to choose from the spooktacular “Ghost and Graveyard” walking tour or the Haunted Jail Tour and you get a harbor tour featuring Fort Sumter, Fort Moultrie, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and 70+ other points of interest. Tours may be taken on different days. Adults $33.50 – Kids $21.50.

Share your Charleston photos on Instagram and tag us: @travelerofcharleston.

Charleston homes are renowned for having beautiful window flower boxes. Explore the historic district to see for yourself!

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SEE + DO

COMBO TOURS Palmetto Carriage Works 8 Guignard Street at the “Big Red Barn” • (Map: H:7) • 843-723-8145 • palmettocarriage.com Charleston’s premier carriage company. We leave from The Big Red Barn every 15 to 20 minutes, rain or shine, beginning at 9 a.m. Tours are one hour long, covering about 25 to 30 blocks of the residential and historic districts. All our guides are city licensed, entertaining and informative. See our ad on the inside front cover.

Plantation & Harbor Combo Tour For tickets: 10 Wharfside St. • (Map: J:5/6) charlestonharbortours.com or Zerve ticketing: 888-224-5037 or 843-722-1112 Tour a spectacular Southern plantation, the new Slave Museum and beautiful grounds paired with a 90-minute “Harbor of History” tour. Fort Sumter, Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the Battery and downtown landmarks. Tours may be taken on different days. Adults $35, children $22.

Land & Sea Combo Tour Visit our website graylineofcharleston.com for more info • 843-722-BOAT (2628) • Save $4 per person when you purchase this combo. Fort Sumter Tours partners with Gray Line of Charleston to offer visitors a comprehensive, historically accurate and entertaining tour of the entire Charleston historic district and her harbor.

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SEE + DO

FISHING CHARTERS

MOTORIZED LAND TOURS

Angler Management Fishing

Adventure Sightseeing

843-259-1489 • anglermanagementsc.com Custom, year-round saltwater inshore fishing charters for families, groups, beginners and professionals. Fish in the Intracoastal Waterway, harbor and tidal creeks. Capt. Ethan will provide licenses, bait, tackle and ice. Eco and harbor tours available. See ad in this section.

“See it all” with Adventure Sightseeing. The most comprehensive motorized city tours daily via comfortable bus. Live narrated by the most experienced and professional guides! Board our buses from the Charleston Visitor Center or let us pick you up. We offer hotel pick up and drop off for a nominal fee. The only bus tour that takes you through The Citadel military college. Fantastic combo tours available with house tours, harbor tours and more. Call 843-762-0088 for reservations or book online at AdventureSightseeing.com

Sharkin Charleston 1 Shrimp Boat Lane • Mount Pleasant pick-up at RB’s Restaurant on Shem Creek • (Map: O:2) 843-557-6627 • sharkincharleston.com Feel the pull of the line and the scream of the reel dragging as you catch 3- to 6-foot sharks on light tackle. No experience necessary; great for families and kids. Shark charters are done in the protected waters of the harbor.

Charleston Sailing and Fishing Charters Sailing charters leave from Cooper River Marina; fishing charters leave from Wappoo boat landing or Folly boat landing • 843-834-2558 charlestonsailingfishing.com • Capt. D will take you offshore fishing for big game fish or bottom fish. All tackle provided. If your prefer sailing, board the 42-foot Miss Ann III with her big center cockpit. See Charleston from the water.

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Summerville Trolley Tour Depart from Summerville Dorchester Museum: 100 E. Doty Ave • Summerville • (Map: BB:2) summervilledream.org/events • 843-821-7260 Take a trip down the Sweet Tea Trail on a 1.5hour guided excursion through this small southern town where tea isn’t the only thing that’s sweet. Only on 1st, 2nd and 3rd Fridays of each month.

The 1935 opera “Porgy and Bess,” is based on DuBose Heyward’s novel “Porgy” and depicts the life of blacks in Charleston.

SEE + DO

MUSEUMS AND PARKS Audubon Center at Beidler Forest 843-462-2150 • beidlerforest.com Francis Beidler Forest contains the largest stand of virgin bald cypress and tupelo gum swamp forest left in the world. See 1,000-year-old trees and native wildlife; walk the 1.75-mile boardwalk into the swamp. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m-5 p.m. Harleyville, S.C.

Children's Museum of the Lowcountry 25 Ann St. • Charleston (Map: G:4) 843-853-8962 • explorecml.org • Nine interactive exhibits, including a two-story Medieval Castle, a pirate ship and a dedicated art room, allow your children to explore the arts, sciences and humanities through their own hands-on experiences. Tues.-Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. Noon-5 p.m.; closed Mon.

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site 1500 Old Towne Road • Charleston • (area map) • 843-852-4200 • Hours: daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • charlestownelanding.travel Established in the 1670, this is the birthplace of Charleston. Experiences include a museum, outdoor exhibits along the History Trail with an accompanying audio tour, cannon demonstrations and special events, an Animal Forest zoo and the “Adventure,” a reproduction 17th-century trading vessel.

Edmondston-Alston House 21 East Battery • Charleston • (Map: H:9) 843-722-7171 • middletonplace.org Built in 1825, the house is a repository of family treasures, including Alston family silver, furniture, books and paintings. Look seaward from the second floor piazza, where Gen. Beauregard watched the bombardment of Fort Sumter.

Fort Sumter Tours Departs from two locations: Liberty Square, Charleston • (Map: J:5) or Patriots Point Mount Pleasant (Map: P:1) • 843-722-2628 spiritlinecruises.com • Charleston is full of history and one of its most famous claims to fame is Fort Sumter National Monument, the site where the Civil War began. The only commercial boat transportation to Fort Sumter. Tours include a 30-minute narrated cruise through Charleston Harbor and back plus an hour to tour the fort and its on-site museum.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road • Mount Pleasant (Map: O:2) • 843-884-2727 • patriotspoint.org Home to the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, WWII's Fighting Lady. Museum includes the destroyer USS Laffey, the submarine USS Clamagore, a re-creation of a Vietnam Naval Support Base, 28 historic military aircraft, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s Museum. Free map for self-guided tours.

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SEE + DO

MUSEUMS AND PARKS North Charleston/American LaFrance Fire Museum 4975 Centre Point Dr • North Charleston • (Map: KK:5) • 843-740-5550 • legacyofheroes.org The Fire Museum, located adjacent to Tanger Outlet Center, is home to the largest collection of fully restored American LaFrance fire trucks and antique fire equipment in the country. It is a wonderful museum for the firefighter in all of us. Great demonstration for kids and people of all ages.

Sky Zone 411 Wando Park Blvd • Mount Pleasant • (Map L:2) • 843-588-5777 • skyzone.com/Charleston Sky Zone is the original indoor trampoline park, and Sky Zone Charleston is proud to bring the unmatched, out-of-this-world, and high-flyin' fun of the world’s first all-trampoline, walled playing court to the Charleston metro area. Great for people of all ages!

South Carolina Aquarium 100 Aquarium Wharf • Charleston 843-720-1990 • scaquarium.org The South Carolina Aquarium is home to more than 5,000 animals found across the state. Explore 385,000-gallon Great Ocean Tank or enjoy a movie in the interactive 4-D movie theater. Journey from the mountains to the sea and find family fun around every corner.

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PLANTATIONS

Adventure Sightseeing

Drayton Hall

Daytrips to Magnolia Plantation. Experience the beautiful, majestic gardens with one of our friendly and experienced tour guides. Offering a daily tour from the Charleston Visitors Center and offering hotel pick up and drop off. Combine it with our city bus tour for an overall Charleston experience! Call 843-762-0088 for reservations or book online at AdventureSightseeing.com

3380 Ashley River Road (Highway 61) Charleston • (area map) • 843-769-2600 draytonhall.org • Drayton Hall (circa 1738) is the oldest unrestored plantation house in America open to the public. Admission includes tours river and marsh walks, the African-American cemetery and artisan-inspired Museum Shop.

Middleton Place Boone Hall Plantation 1235 Long Point Road • Mount Pleasant (Map: L:4) • 843-884-4371 boonehallplantation.com • One of America’s oldest plantations with more than 320 years of history. Located 8 miles north of Charleston. The “Avenue of Oaks,” nine original slave cabins, house tours and shows included in admission. Mon.-Sat. 8:30 a.m.-6:30p.m.; Sun. 1-5 p.m.

National Historic Landmark • 4300 Ashley River Road (Highway 61) • Charleston • (area map) 843-556-6020 • middletonplace.org • An 18th-century rice plantation and National Historic Landmark comprising 65 acres of America’s oldest landscaped gardens. See the house museum, craftspeople in the stable yards or take an African-American focus tour. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Charleston Tea Plantation

TRANSPORTION

6617 Maybank Highway • Wadmalaw Island (area map) • 843-559-0383 charlestonteaplantation.com • Located on beautiful Wadmalaw Island 25 miles from downtown Charleston. Visitors can experience how tea is planted, grown, nurtured and harvested from the raw leaf to finished black tea – made possible by the farm’s thousands of historic tea bushes.

Charleston Water Taxi Downtown: Maritime Center • 10 Wharfside St. (Map: K:5/6) • Mount Pleasant: Charleston Harbor Marina at Patriots Point • (Map: O:2) 843-330-2989 • charlestonwatertaxi.com The water taxi runs on a continuous loop around Charleston Harbor between Patriots Point (USS Yorktown) and downtown Charleston.

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SEE + DO

PLANTATIONS

WALKING TOURS

Bulldog Tours

Yorktown Ghost Tours

40 N. Market St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7) 843-722-TOUR • bulldogtours.com As seen on the Travel Channel’s “America’s Most Haunted Places,” this walking tour company will have you exhilarated and entertained. Choose from four tours: Ghost & Graveyard, The Dark Side of Charleston, Ghost Dungeon and Haunted Jail Tour.

40 Patriots Point Road • Mount Pleasant (Map: O:2) • 843-277-0577 yorktownghosttours.com • Guided tour explores the unexplained mysteries of this WWII aircraft carrier. Hear stories of sacrifice and devastation as this tour ventures into areas normally restricted to the public.

Charleston Strolls Walk With History Departs from Mills House Hotel (corner of Meeting & Queen) • 843-766-2080 charlestonstrolls.com • Featured in The New York Times, this two-hour tour is the best way to see Charleston’s Historic District. Famous landmarks, historic highlights, antebellum mansions, quaint alleys and hidden gardens. Everyday at 10 a.m. Requires reservation.

Culinary Tours Of Charleston 40 N. Market St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7) 843-727-1100 • culinarytoursofcharleston.com Walk, talk and taste your way through Charleston while experiencing history through Lowcountry cuisine. Daily tasting tours introduce guests to tasty bites at many great restaurants. Go behind the scenes and visit with chefs, bakers, artisan food producers, chocolatiers and specialty shops.

BEST BEACH READS This summer we’re in the middle of Mary Alice Monroe's Lowcountry Summer Trilogy with book No. 2, “The Summer Wind.” We pick up the story where “The Summer Girls” left off with three half-sisters rediscovering family bonds -- and learning more about themselves -thanks to a summer at their grandmother’s Lowcountry beach house. Read a review of “The Summer Wind” and get more beach read recommendations at travelerofcharleston.com/blog.

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SEE + DO

WALKING TOURS

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SEE + DO

WATER TOURS Adventure Harbor Tours Tours Depart from the Charleston Harbor Marina • 20 Patriots Point Road • (Map: O:2) 843-442-9455 • adventureharbortours.com Family fun for everyone. “Stormin’ the Beach,” ($55/$30), a 3-hour excursion to Morris Island to search for shells and sharks’ teeth. Or enjoy a 90-minute relaxing sunset dolphin cruise. Reservations encouraged.

Angler Management Fishing 843-259-1489 • anglermanagementsc.com Custom, year-round saltwater inshore fishing charters for families, groups, beginners and professionals. Fish in the Intracoastal Waterway, harbor and tidal creeks. Capt. Ethan will provide licenses, bait, tackle and ice. Eco and harbor tours available. See ad in this section.

AquaSafaris 24 Patriots Point Road, A-Dock at Charleston Harbor Marina • Mount Pleasant • (Map: O:2) 843-886-8133 • aqua-safaris.com • Head out for an action-packed day of fishing, charter a luxury motor yacht for private or corporate events, sit back and watch dolphin on an affordable sunset cruise through Charleston Harbor. Offers Charleston’s largest fleet with the catamaran, Palmetto Breeze.

Barrier Island Eco-Tours 50 41st Ave. • Isle of Palms Marina • (Map: N:6) 843-886-5000 • nature-tours.com • Naturalist guided boat excursions to Capers Island Preserve. Travel the salt marsh creeks, see dolphins and wildlife up close, explore the “boneyard beach” and walk inland trails. Morning and sunset eco-tours, creek fishing, crabbing, kayaking or beach-side cookouts.

Carolina Queen Riverboat 17 Lockwood Blvd. at the City Marina • (Map: B:3) 800-344-4483 • charlestonharbortours.com Charleston’s only authentic paddle wheel vessel with three decks, two bars, an enclosed main salon and plenty of room for dining and dancing. Thurs. nights: Murder Mystery Cruise. Fri. nights: Music and Craft Beer. Sat.: luncheon cruises. Sun: Jazz Brunch Cruises.

Charleston Harbor Tours Charleston Maritime Center. • 10 Wharfside St., Charleston • (Map: J:5/6) • 888-224-5037 or 843-722-1112 • charlestonharbortours.com Board the Carolina Belle for Charleston’s only live narrated harbor history tour. Relax and enjoy a beverage from the snack bar as the captain details the forts and landmarks that shaped Charleston’s historic harbor. Private charters and group dinner cruises available.

In 1886 an earthquake hit Charleston, damaging 2,000 buildings and killing 110. 28 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com july-september 2014

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SEE + DO

WATER TOURS Isle of Palms Marina 50 41st Ave. • Isle of Palms • (Map: N:6) 843-886-0209 • iopmarina.com • A full-service marina with 50 slips, a full-service store with a deli with groceries, beer, wine, bait and tackle. Powerboat rentals and customized excursions, group outings and fishing charters can be booked here.

Nature Adventure Tours 325 W. Coleman Blvd. • Mount Pleasant (Map: O:2 at Shem Creek, on the water) 843-568-3222 • kayakcharlestonsc.com Charleston’s outstanding naturalist-guided kayak, canoe and paddle-board tour service. Tour salt-water marshes, swamps, rice plantations. See dolphins, pelicans and a wide variety of wildlife. Families and beginners are welcome; rentals also available.

The Shag has been the official state dance since 1984. It's thought to have started in the 1920s in Myrtle Beach. The Charleston Beach Music and Shag Festival is Aug. 24-25 at the North Charleston Convention Center. Info: charleston.beachmusic.co

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SEE + DO

WATER TOURS Sandlapper Water Tours Tour depart from the Maritime Center (by S.C. Aquarium) • 10 Wharfside St. • Charleston (Map K:4) • 843-849-8687 for info; 800-979-3370 for tickets • sandlappertours.com Take the haunted ghost & pirate tour or cruise the Charleston harbor with a history tour. Go shelling on Morris Island and see dolphins on the nature tour or relax on the sunset tour. Private charters available. Reservations recommended. See coupon in ad.

Schooner Pride – Charleston’s Tall Ship 360 Concord St. • Charleston • (Map: J:5) 888-245-9206 or 843-722-1112 schoonerpride.com • Marvel at the Holy City skyline while sailing by the forts where history was made. See dolphins playing and experience a Charleston sunset. Take an afternoon dolphin sail or a sunset sail; available for private charters. Combo tour available.

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SEE + DO

WATER TOURS SpiritLine Charleston Harbor Tour Departs from two locations: Aquarium Wharf, Charleston • (Map: J:5) or Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant • (Map: O:2) • 843-722-2628 spiritlinecruises.com • The 90-minute cruise passes by Charleston’s famous Battery, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, Waterfront Park, Patriots Point, Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie.

Tidalwave Watersports 69 41st Ave • Isle of Palms (Map: N:6) tidalwavewatersports.com • 843-886-8456 Tidalwave offers the ultimate in parasailing, waverunner, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and banana boat ride the Charleston area has to offer. offers the ultimate in parasailing, waverunner, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and banana boat ride the Charleston area has to offer. See their ad for discounts!

“Walking the streets of Charleston in the late afternoons of August was like walking through gauze or inhaling damaged silk.” – Pat Conroy in his book “The Lords of Discipline”

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SEE + DO

Enjoy the cool breezes on a warm Charleston evening with a walk along The Battery, a landmark defensive seawall, along East Bay Street. It stretches along the lower shores of the Charleston peninsula, bordered by the Ashley and Cooper rivers. july-september 2014 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 39

SEE + DO

Charleston Area Beach Guide Each of Charleston’s area beaches has its own unique flavor and its own beach rules. Check out our guide so you’re prepared before you land on the sand. FOLLY BEACH ■ This barrier island beach is laid back and often frequented by locals and surfers. ■ No possession or consumption of alcohol is allowed on the beach. ■ Traffic can get heavy and parking can be a problem if you arrive after 11 a.m. during the busy season, so you may want to consider a morning beach visit. ■ Folly Beach Fishing Pier is open daily and has a full-service restaurant, fishing, rod rentals and a tackle shop. ■ Surfing without a leash is prohibited. Through Sept. 15, surfing is prohibited from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West. ■ Folly Beach County Park has lifeguards, outdoor showers and snack bar.

ISLE OF PALMS ■ This is the most commercialized beach with a selection of shops, restaurants, bars and public restrooms. ■ The area of Ocean Boulevard from 10th Avenue to 14th Avenue is set aside for beachgoers and is known as “front beach.” ■ For access to picnic tables, showers, restrooms and a playground, you might want to park at the Isle of Palms County Park for Parking is $7 a day on weekdays and $10 a day on weekends through Labor Day. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Labor Day; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in September/October. ■ Alcohol is prohibited; no glass bottles on the beach.

KIAWAH ISLAND ■ Much of the island and its beaches are private. ■ The only public beach access is at Kiawah Beachwalker Park on the west end of the island. It has restrooms, picnic areas with grills and boardwalks. Parking is $7 a day on weekdays and $10 a day on weekends through Labor Day. Park hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Labor Day; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in September/October.

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND ■ Plan for a day trip to this beach as it has very few short-term rentals and no hotels or motels. ■ Parking can be a problem if you arrive after 10 a.m. There are no public parking lots; street parking only. Be sure to obey posted signs and don’t park in any private yards or driveways. ■ There are no public restrooms or showers, and alcohol is not permitted. Be sure to visit our blog at travelerofcharleston.com for more information about Charleston’s beaches and the rules regarding dogs on the beach. 40 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com july-september 2014

Shop + Savor

Charleston was founded in the late 1600s as a port city, and it has remained a thriving place to buy goods ever since! Buy local and enjoy the rewards. About Charleston The Charleston Farmers Market is a great place to pick up local produce, locally made arts and crafts, fresh flowers and specialty foods. It’s open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Saturday at Marion Square (King and Calhoun streets in downtown Charleston).

WHETHER YOU’RE SHOPPING FOR SOUVENIRS, A DRESS FOR DINNER OR A BOX OF BENNE WAFERS, YOU’LL FIND JUST WHAT YOU WANT IN THE CITY’S MANY RETAIL OUTLETS. The Charleston peninsula has boutiques, national retailers and a market full of Southern charm.

SHOP + SAVOR

SHOPPING Charleston Winery 63 S. Market St. • (Map: H:7) • 843-576-4772 charlestonwines.com • Daily wine tastings, unique gifts and accessories. Citrus and berry wines are made from 100% pure Florida citrus fruits and berries and natural ingredients. Wines have won 200+ medals at national and international wine competitions. See coupon in ad.

Dacuba’s Fine Jewelry 84 N. Market St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7/8) 843-853-0103 • dacubasjewelry.citymax.com Nestled in the heart of Charleston, Dacuba’s is a unique fine jewelry store with a wonderful selection of sterling silver and 14kt gold jewelry. Its classic Charleston “Southern Gate” collection is fashioned after the wrought-iron work seen throughout this historical city.

Harris Teeter Visit one of their 15 Charleston area locations harristeeter.com • You're on vacation, that means from the kitchen too! So let us handle the cooking. Our Fresh Foods Market has everything it takes to satisfy your hungry crowd.

Nice Ice Fine Jewelry 145 Market St. • Charleston • (Map: G:7) 843-577-7029 • Since 1974 they have been providing Charleston and visitors with the most exquisite and unique jewelry. Designers such as Rudolf Friedman, Judith Ripka, Slane & Slane, Jude Frances, Charriol and Nanis.

Palmettoville 51 S. Market St. Shops at French Quarter (Map: H:7) • Assortment of sunglasses, postcards, handmade soaps and lotions, shot glasses, hand-painted tee towels, slap watches, local images, hats and wide selection of Charleston T-shirts for adults and children, produced locally by our family for more than 30 years.

Charleston is the only place where the art of sweetgrass basket making is practiced in its original form. july-september 2014 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 43

From shopping to nightlife, Charleston has it all DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON Spend the day walking King Street with its clothing boutiques, shoe stores, gift shops and more. Start near Charleston Place Hotel and head toward Calhoun Street for a wide selection of local boutiques, gift shops and national retailers. If you’re in the market for rare finds, make your way down Lower King Street (south of Market Street), the city’s antique district. On the second Sunday of each month, several blocks of King Street are closed off to vehicles, and people (and pets) flood the streets for open-air dining, music, shopping and entertainment. The City Market stretches from Meeting Street to East Bay Street and is home to more than 100 vendors – plus dozens of businesses and restaurants line Market Street on either side of the City Market shed. This is a great spot to pick up souvenirs, sweetgrass baskets, artwork and jewelry. After the sun sets, head to Upper King Street, which in recent years has transformed into a hip design district with a bustling nightlife. The area stretches from Calhoun up to about Mary Street and is filled with trendy clubs and bars and high-end restaurants, giving the street a sort of New York City vibe. The Cocktail Club offers a refined atmosphere with its house-made drinks and rooftop terrace or stop off at The Belmont for a scotch and a cheese and charcuterie plate. Named a 2013 Best New Restaurant finalist by the James Beard Foundation, The Ordinary is a Southern seafood hall and oyster bar from Chef Mike Lata, best known for his other Charleston restaurant, FIG.

SUMMERVILLE Summerville’s Town Square is filled with local boutiques and shops, including 12 antique stores, a children’s book store and one of the top 10 quilt shops in the country. MOUNT PLEASANT ■ Towne Centre on U.S. Highway 17 is home to national retailers plus several local boutiques, including Palmetto Moon, Hairy Winston Pet Boutique, Teal, Francesca’s Collection and Chucktown Chicks. mtpleasanttownecentre.com ■ Belle Hall Shopping Center is located on Long Point Road ( just off Interstate 526). Stop by Wonder Works for a large selection of children’s toys and gifts or visit Princess of Tides for costumes and tutus. Carolina Girls carries gift items, jewelry and stationery. The Coastal Cupboard has a large selection of specialty food items and cookware. shopbellehall.com After a full day of sightseeing and shopping, relax on Shem Creek – cold drink in hand and seafood platter on the table. Shem Creek’s laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to unwind while watching the shrimp boats dock in the creek and the dolphins play in the water. NORTH CHARLESTON ■ Tanger Outlets has dozens of nationally known retailers offering apparel for adults and children, shoes, accessories, housewares and jewelry. Tanger is easily accessible from both Interstates 526 and 26. tangeroutlet.com/charleston

Share your Charlestons shopping moments on our Facebook page at facebook.com/travelermag

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SHOP + SAVOR

SHOPPING Tom’s Toys LLC 125 Market St. • Charleston • (Map: G:7) Kapla is a unique wooden building toy composed of identical blocks. Children put one block on top of the other and let their imagination run free, creating all kinds of animals, buildings, vehicles and bridges. Suitable for children of all ages.

Terrace Oaks Antique Mall 2037 Maybank Highway • James Island (area map) • 843-795-9689 • Mon-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. terraceoaksantiques.com A leader in the Charleston area for multidealer antique shops since 1988. The 10,000-squarefoot, climate-controlled shop houses 90+ booths with all different tastes and styles. When it comes to antiques, they have just about anything your heart desires.

Town of Mount Pleasant Mount Pleasant is not your average place to visit. Filled with an array of restaurants, taverns, activities and accommodations, the vacation you’re anticipating will be more than just a trip from home; it will be an experience of indescribable magic and warmth.

In between visits to Charleston, stay connected to the Holy City through our social media. Find us on Facebook (facebook.com/travelermag), on Twitter (twitter.com/traveler_mag) and on Pinterest (pinterest.com/travelermag).

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Eat + Drink

About Charleston Don’t leave Charleston without eating some grits. Try grits at breakfast (topped with cheese!) or for dinner in a shrimp and grits entrée .

Charleston’s diverse culinary scene is amazing. Innovative chefs and their dishes will dazzle the taste buds and warm the heart. Charleston has great taste! TRUST US, YOU WON’T LEAVE CHARLESTON HUNGRY. In fact you might spend half your vacation simply deciding which delectable restaurant to try next. Our city has world-class chefs cooking up plates filled with Southern goodness. Our desserts are claiming national recognition.

EAT + DRINK

FINE DINING Cru Cafe´ 18 Pinckney St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7) 843-534-2434 • crucafe.com • In an 18th-century home on Pinckney Street, Charlestonians sip mint julep tea on the porch and dine on upscale comfort food at John Zucker’s Cru Cafe. “Do it right and use the best possible ingredients” is his mantra. Lunch and dinner.

SpiritLine Dinner Cruise Departs from 40 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant • (Map: O:2) • 843-722-2628 spiritlinecruises.com • The SpiritLine Dinner Cruise aboard the Spirit of Carolina features fine cuisine prepared to order onboard, entertainment, dancing, fully stocked bar and a magnificent cruise on Charleston Harbor. Call for reservations.

Middleton Place Restaurant 4300 Ashley River Road • Charleston (area map) • 843-556-6020 • middletonplace.org Savor Lowcountry cuisine while taking in views of America’s oldest landscaped gardens. For lunch, visitors enjoy a three-course, prix fixe menu. Lunch served daily. Dinner guests pay no admission after 5:30 p.m. and can stroll through the gardens prior to dinner.

CASUAL DINING A.W. Shuck’s 35 South Market St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7) 843-723-1151 • a-w-shucks.com A.W. Shucks’ menu is inspired by classic Charleston Tradition with stuffed shrimp, the Lowcountry’s best she-crab soup, and seafood casserole that’s a legend among locals. Plus, an extensive selection of craft beers. Lunch and dinner served daily beginning at 11 a.m.

FREE Appetizer w/ Purchase of 2 Entrees! up to $10.99 value Not Valid w/other Offers - Traveler Magazine

Bocci’s 158 Church St. • (Map: H:7) • 843-720-2121 boccis.com • USA Today mentioned Bocci’s as one of the leading Italian restaurants in the United States. Featuring full Italian fare at affordable prices, this family restaurant brings everything that is right about Italian food to the table. Open for lunch and dinner.

For the third year in a row, Charleston was named the best U.S. city by Condé Nast Traveler readers in 2013. Readers named among their favorite things about Charleston nearby beaches, impressive architecture as well as the “insanely nice” locals, magniﬁcent bed and breakfast venues and “amazing shopping.”

Great Italian Food Family Friendly Atmosphere 428 King Street & John Downtown Charleston 843-965-5252

Crab cakes make the perfect appetizer for your Charleston meal.

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Top Spots for Rooftop Dining in Charleston It’s hard to top a summertime evening that involves sipping a cocktail while looking out over the Holy City skyline. For a bird’s eye view of these breathtaking horizons, check out one of these rooftop dining and bar options.

Charleston Crab House: The downtown location of this Lowcountry staple serves up fresh local seafood with a view of the Charleston Market below. 41 S. Market St., Charleston charlestoncrabhouse.com

Pavilion Bar: Don’t miss this rooftop bar with cascading pool, signature cocktails and sophisticated atmosphere. Private table reservations available. Located at the Market Pavilion Hotel, 225 East Bay St., Charleston marketpavilion.com

Rooftop Cocktail Bar at the Vendue Inn: Serving up cocktails and views of the Charleston harbor, this sky-high dining destination has great glimpses of Waterfront Park, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and more. Open daily for lunch, dinner and cocktails. 19 Venue Range, Charleston thevendue.com

Stars Rooftop & Grill Room: Grab a seat on the recycled wicker furniture and order up a cocktail, artisan wine or craft beer and take in the 360-degree view of downtown Charleston starsrestaurant.com

Share your Charleston skyline and rooftop dining photos on our Facebook page at facebook.com/travelermag

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Pour a Glass Charleston has become a hot spot for distilleries. Check out some of these locations and sample some locally made vodka, moonshine and rum.

Firefly Distillery on Wadmalaw Island produces moonshine, vodka, rum and bourbon. The vineyard’s signature product is Firefly Vodka, which comes in such varieties as original sweet tea, skinny tea, raspberry tea and peach tea. A lemonade variety is available only at the distillery. Firefly also makes Firefly Moonshine. Bottled in a truly Southern Mason Jar, the moonshine comes in six flavors: White Lighting, peach, cherry, strawberry, apple pie and caramel. 6775 Bears Bluff Road Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487 fireflyvodka.com | 843-557-1405 The tasting room is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday; cost $6 per tasting. High Wire Distilling Co. creates smallbatch, handcrafted spirits at its downtown Charleston location. Products include Hometown Vodka, made from 100% corn and distilled more than seven times, and Silver Rum, which is made from a highgrade, Barbadian style molasses. The Hat Trick Extraordinarily Fine Botanical Gin is made with crushed juniper berries and fresh lemon and orange peel, whereas the Belonger’s Rum is crafted from quality Barbadianstyle molasses and aged in Woodford Reserve barrels. 652 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 highwiredistilling.com | 843-755-4664 Tours and tastings are 1-6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; cost $5 per person. Striped Pig Distillery creates spirits using local ingredients. Striped Pig produces Striped ‘Shine, the strongest legal moonshine in South Carolina and Striped

Rum, made with southern molasses from Savannah, Ga., — enjoy it straight or with a mixer over ice. Striped Vodka is a corn vodka, hand-crafted in the distillery with corn grown on a South Carolina farm. 2225-A Old School Drive Charleston, SC 29405 stripedpigdistillery.com | 843-276-3201 Free tours and tastings are 3-7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday (on the hour). Opening this summer is Charleston Distilling Co. with artisan spirits handmade in small batches. 501 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 charlestondistilling.com | 843-718-1446 july-september 2014 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 53

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EAT + DRINK

CASUAL DINING

Charleston Crab House

Hyman’s Seafood

41 S. Market St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7) 843-853-2900 • 145 Wappoo Creek Drive James Island • 843-762-4507 charlestoncrabhouse.com • Serving lunch and dinner daily. Celebrating 20 years, the Charleston Crab House serves fresh local seafood including S.C. shrimp year-round. A favorite for locals and visitors with roof-top dining downtown.

215 Meeting St. • Charleston • (Map: G:7) 843-723-6000 • hymanseafood.com Voted No. 1 seafood restaurant in the Southeast by Southern Living magazine nine years in a row. Lunch and dinner served daily. Parking and back entrance from Charleston Place. No reservations; come early to avoid the wait. See coupon in ad.

East Bay Deli 334 East Bay St. • Charleston • (Map: I:5) 843-216-5473 • 1120 Oakland Market Road Mount Pleasant • (Map: L:5) • 843-216-5473 9135 University Blvd. • North Charleston 843-553-7374 • 4405 Dorchester Road North Charleston • (Map: W:4) • 843-747-1235 New York-style deli using only quality products such as Thumann’s deli meats and Hebrew National deli dogs. The varied menu comes with many options: soups, chili, both hearty and heart-healthy sandwiches, wraps, giant spuds and desserts.

Did you snap a photo of your amazing Charleston meal? Let’s see it! Tag us on Instagram @travelerofcharleston

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Joe Pasta 428 King St. (Corner of King & John streets) Charleston • (Map: F/G:4) • 843-965-5252 Menu features soups, salads, Parmesan sandwiches, pizza, pastas, desserts and a full liquor, wine and beer bar. The restaurant provides a laid-back and cozy atmosphere that is family friendly. See coupon in ad.

Tommy Condon’s 160 Church St. • (Map: H:7) • 843-577-3818 tommycondons.com • Have you ever been in an authentic Irish pub and restaurant? Tucked away on Church Street, just a half block off Charleston’s historic Market, is Tommy Condon’s, a pub that will delight your soul. Serving lunch and dinner daily.

Calendar of Events july – september 2014 Red, White & Blue JULY 4

Summerville’s Red, White & Blue on the Green – Head to Gahagan Park for games, face painting, jump castles and a watermelon-eating contest plus a costume contest for the best patriotic garb. Decorated bicycles and wagons are welcome in the non-motorized parade. 843-821-7260 | summervilledream.org

Uncle Sam Jam – Dance to live beach music and watch fireworks over the Charleston harbor at the Mount Pleasant Pier. ccprc.com

Patriots Point 4th of July Blast – Enjoy a professional fireworks display and shoreside party with a beach music band. Tickets to watch from the flight deck of the USS Yorktown will be sold in a limited quantity. 843-884-2727 | patriotspoint.org

Blues & BBQ Harbor Cruise – Enjoy a barbecue buffet, music and the best view of the fireworks show over the Charleston harbor. 888-224-5037 | charlestonharbortours.com

Sizzling Southern Celebration – Join the Wentworth Mansion and Circa 1886 music, lawn games, drinks and three-course dinner. After dark, guests head to the mansion’s cupola with a glass of champagne to watch Charleston’s fireworks. 843-853-7828 | circa1886.com

Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series – Enjoy old school roots reggae with Da’Gullah Rootz at James Island County Park. ccprc.com

Music on the Green – Spread out a blanket and enjoy the music of local band Plane Jane at Freshfields Village on Kiawah Island. freshfieldsvillage.com

Raise De Roof, a Gospel Choir and Gumbo Cooking Competition – Music and gumbo are on tap for this fundraiser at Joseph P. Riley Stadium in downtown Charleston. etouches.com/Raisederoof

Charleston Fine Art Dealers’ Association’s Palette and Palate Stroll – Stroll the streets of downtown, making stops at local galleries for an evening dedicated to fine art and unique cuisine from local restaurants. Benefits local arts programs. cfada.com

Sustainable Seafood Dinner at Middleton Place – Enjoy a five-course meal paired with wines from around the world and a craft brew from one of Charleston’s local breweries. 843-226-7477 | middletonplace.org

AUGUST 1

Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series – Enjoy old school roots reggae with Mystic Vibrations at James Island County Park. ccprc.com

1-17

“Don’t Dress for Dinner” – A frenetic case of mistaken identity with more twists than a corkscrew hits the stage in this performance by the Footlight Players. 843-722-4487 | footlightplayers.net

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“Hairspray” – Head back to the 1962 as the Flowertown Players recreate this Broadway Musical at the James F. Dean Theatre in Summerville. 843-875-9251 flowertownplayers.org

8-9

Hooked on Life Fishing Tournament – Participate in this catch-and-release tournament in South Carolina’s coastal waterways from Edisto Island to Bulls Bay. lifepoint-sc.org/events_2012HOL.htm

28-31

2014 Lowcountry Jazz Festival – Award-winning jazz, soul, R&B and pop artists take the stage at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center. lowcountryjazz.com

29-9/21

“You Can’t Take It With You” – Acclaimed as the greatest of American stage comedies, this play won the Pulitzer Prize in 1938. Performed by Charleston Stage at the Dock Street Theatre. 843-577-7183 | charlestonstage.com

Shrimp and Grits Charleston – Sixteen Charleston chefs will compete to create the best shrimp and grits in Charleston. Plus, enjoy live music and a pet talent show. Portion of proceeds benefit the Charleston Animal Society. shrimpandgritscharleston.com

SEPTEMBER 3-10/29

Fall Wine Strolls at Middleton Place – On Wednesday evenings, sip and stroll in a different garden location each week while sampling old and new world wines. middletonplace.org

3-14

Charleston Restaurant Week – Enjoy the world-renowned cuisine of the Lowcountry as participating restaurants offer prix fixe lunch and dinner menus consisting of three items for one price. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com

11-13

Carolina Gold Rice Harvest at Middleton Place – Join a costumed interpreter at the rice field overlook for a hands-on demonstration of how Carolina Gold rice was harvested. middletonplace.org

Charleston Jazz Orchestra presents “Buena Vista” – A 20-piece big band made up of Charleston musicians will do two performances of Latin music at the Charleston Music Hall. 843-641-0011 | jazzartistsofcharleston.org

Scottish Games and Highland Gathering – Sporting events, music and games at Boone Hall Plantation. charlestonscots.orgchucktownshowdown.com

Palette and Palate Stroll

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

1-17

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Restaurant Week 21

Carolina Green Fair – Sustainable and environmentally friendly exhibits/demos plus entertainment, food and children’s activities at James Island County Park. carolinagreenfair.com

The 2nd annual Tri-Kiawah – Participate in a competition featuring a .7-mile swim, 25.1-mile bike and 6.1-mile run around Kiawah Island. 843-768-2121 kiawahtriathlon.com

25-10/5

30th Annual MOJA Arts Festival – This is a 10-day celebration of Gullah culture named for the Swahili word meaning “one.” It includes dance, music, theater and literary arts performances at venues all around Charleston. 843-724-7305 mojafestival.com

9/26-28

Southern Living Taste of Charleston – Head to Boone Hall Plantation for a three-day showcase of more than 50 Lowcountry restaurants and specialty and imported beer plus entertainment, children’s area and the legendary Waiter’s Race. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com

ONGOING EVENTS Through 8/28 Charleston RiverDogs baseball games – Enjoy a night at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park with the family. Check the schedule for special events and fireworks after the game. riverdogs.com | 843-577-3647 7/8, 8/5, 9/2, 9/16, 9/30 Yoga Under the Oaks – Enjoy an evening yoga workout followed by food, drinks and socializing at Charles Towne Landing. charlestownelanding.travel 7/26, 8/16, 8/30, 9/3, 9/12, 9/18, 9/25 From Gospel to Gershwin presented by The Sound of Charleston – Jazz, gospel, Gershwin, spirituals and Civil War songs at Circular Congregational Church. soundofcharleston.com | 843-270-4903 Blues & BBQ Harbor Cruise – Available every Thursday night and on third Fridays; enjoy a barbecue buffet, live music and a cruise around the Charleston harbor. 888-224-5037 | charlestonharbortours.com Sweet Tea Trail Trolley Tours – Begin with a history film at Summerville Visitor’s Center and then a local historian gives a one-hour guided tour on the trolley with a stop at the historic Linwood Gardens. Tours are 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. first, second and third Fridays. lowcountrylooptrolley.com | 843-654-5199 “Sherlock Holmes and the Charleston History Mystery,” a hauntingly historical, hysterical whodunit for fans of the Master Sleuth at the Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre. charlestonmysteries.com | 843-937-6453 “Church Street Daughters of the Late Unpleasantness Garden, Gun & Gin Club Mystery,” a mystery that has the crème of Charleston’s ladies dirtying their white gloves with murder at Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre | charlestonmysteries.com | 843-937-6453

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2nd Sunday on King Street – On the second Sunday of each month. Street is closed to vehicular traffic from Queen Street North to Calhoun Street. 2ndsundayonkingstreet.com Third Thursdays – Head to historic downtown Summerville from 5-9 p.m. every third Thursday. Shops and restaurants will be open late and some have special promotions. summervilledream.org First Friday of each month First Friday’s On Broad Art Walk – 5-8 p.m. at art galleries along Broad Street in downtown Charleston. charlestongalleryrow.com Charles Towne Landing special events – The first Saturday is musket demonstrations (except August). The second Saturday is a monthly theme (July 12 Life & Lesiure: Colonial Pastimes; Aug. 9 A Day in the Life of a Sailor; Sept. 13 From Seeds to Shillings: Gardens & Agriculture). The third Saturday is cannon demonstrations (except August). 843-852-4200 charlestownelanding.travel Charleston Farmers Market – Each Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. through 11/29 in Marion Square, downtown Charleston. charlestonfarmersmarket.com Freshfields Village Farmers Market – Each Monday from 4-8 p.m. through 8/25. Shop for Lowcountry produce, prepared foods, crafts and specialty products. freshfieldsvillage.com

MOJA Arts Festival

* Event details are subject to change.

Follow us on Twitter @Traveler_Mag and on Facebook for more Charleston Please call ahead or check the listed website for confirmation. events, festivals and activities. For even more Charleston area events, check our online calendar at travelerofcharleston.com/events.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Evenings in the Market – Every Friday and Saturday evening showcasing local artists, food vendors and designers in the historic Charleston City Market. thecharlestoncitymarket.com

Things to Love about the Lowcountry ■ Golf galore: Charleston is home to some pretty amazing golf courses. The beautiful marsh and ocean views will help you forget the fact that maybe your golf game isn’t totally up to par. ■ Swings at Waterfront Park: One of Charleston’s most visited public spaces, Waterfront Park is the best place to snap photos of the Charleston harbor, Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and the USS Yorktown. Grab a coveted spot on one of the porch swings and enjoy warm breezes and spectacular views. ■ Waterparks: When the summertime heat leaves us glistening, we head to one of the three Charleston County waterparks with their swimming pools, splash zones and slides. Plus check out the new spray play area at James Island County Park with sprinklers and shaded seating. ■ Shem Creek at sunset: Pick one of the great restaurants along Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant and then kick back on the patio with a cold beverage and a platter of seafood. Keep your eyes open for dolphins playing in the creek waters. ■ Beach reading: Nothing beats relaxing on the beach with a great new novel. We have some terrific local authors who write about Charleston with authenticity and excitement.

of Charleston

Web Extras...

We can’t possibly fit everything there is to see and do in Charleston in one visitor guide so go to our website for more ways to make a memorable Charleston vacation.

Sandy paws: Local beaches have some pretty strict laws on when dogs can and can’t be on the beach. Be sure to check out our guide on the dog rules before you take Fido for an ocean swim.

http://budurl.com/d7kr

Harbor history: Charleston is most certainly a city by the sea. From the Civil War-era forts in the harbor to the port as a center for trade, Charleston’s history and economy are anchored in the water that borders the city. http://budurl.com/y6yt

Beach reads: Check out our review of “The Summer Wind,” the second book in a summertime trilogy from Charleston author Mary Alice Monroe. PLUS: See what other books we suggest you toss in your beach bag. http://budurl.com/cddr

More to See & Do The summer calendar is overflowing with outdoor events, family activities and local farmers markets. Head to our website for an expanded calendar of events and then it’s the hard part: deciding which events to do. http://budurl.com/yezc

Let’s Be Social: We love connecting with Charleston visitors so join us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram. We’re here to answer questions during your visit and we’d love to hear about your favorite Charleston spots and see your photos.

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MAPS

Charleston Area Map

Getting Around Some transportation options for getting around downtown Charleston and the surrounding areas. ■ WATER TAXI: Transports visitors from downtown Charleston (Aquarium Wharf or WaterfrontPark) to Mount Pleasant (Patriots Point or Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina). Taxi runs each hour; $10 for all-day pass. No reservations needed. Shem Creek route available; $20 round trip. Call 843-330-2989 for pickup. charlestonwatertaxi.com ■ BUS: The CARTA bus system has regular routes that travel to major destinations. The DASH trolley service is available free of charge if you’re traveling around downtown Charleston. ridecarta.com | 843-724-7420 ■ LOWCOUNTRY

LOOP TROLLEY: Go from downtown Charleston to attractions in Mount Pleasant and the beaches using this hop-on/hop-off trolley. Cost is $15 for an individual roundtrip day pass. lowcountrylooptrolley.com 843-654-5199

■ RICKSHAWS

AND PEDICABS: Available in downtown Charleston as are taxi cabs for transportation around the Lowcountry.

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Charleston Metro Area Maps 1

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SEE + DO Palmetto Carriage` 34 West Theater Company Adventure Harbor Tours Adventure Sightseeing Tours Angler Management Charters Audubon Center at Beidler Forest Barrier Island Eco Tours Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre Boone Hall Plantation Bulldog Tours Carolina Queen Riverboat Carriage/ Harbor Tour Combo Charles Towne Landing Charleston Harbor Tours Charleston Strolls Walking Tour Charleston Tea Plantation Charleston Water Taxi Children's Museum City of North Charleston Culinary Tours Drayton Hall Edmondston-Alston House Fort Sumter Tours GrayLine/ Fort Sumter Tour Combo Isle of Palms Marina Mary Alice Monroe - Author Middleton Place Nature Adventures Outﬁtters North Charleston Fire Museum Palmetto Breeze Sail Patriots Point Maritime Museum Plantation/ Harbor Tour Combo Sandlapper Water Tours Schooner Pride Sail Sharkin' Charleston Sky Zone South Carolina Aquarium SpiritLine Harbor Cruise Summerville Sweet Tea Trail The Sound of Charleston Tidalwave Watersports Town of Summerville SC USS Yorktown Ghost Tours Walking/ Harbor Tour Combo Wild Blue Ropes

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SHOP + SAVOR Brass Pirate Charleston Winery Dacuba's Fine Jewelry Harris Teeter KAPLA - Tom's Toys Nice Ice Fine Jewelry Palmettoville Terrace Oaks Antique Mall Town of Mount Pleasant SC

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EAT + DRINK A.W. Shuck's Bocci's Italian Charleston Crab House Cru Café East Bay Deli Hyman's Seafood Joe Pasta Middleton Place Restaurant SpiritLine Dinner Cruise Tommy Condon's

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