Traveler of Charleston Mag | 2019 Jan - Mar

First-Time Visitors Guide

12 Free, Low-Cost Activities

Feel the Love at these Romantic Spots january–march 2019

®

TRAVELER of Charleston

The Source For All Things Charleston

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Fin Amaz d i Thin ng g to Do s in Char lesto n!

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Contents

DEPARTMENTS 6 16 42 45 48 64 69

Welcome to Charleston See + Do Shop + Savor Shopping Guide Eat + Drink Maps Directory of Advertisers

FEATURES 12

Charleston is a Tasty Spot for Lowcountry Oysters

15

Where to Go for Great Seafood

28

In Love with Charleston: Romantic Spots

34

Free or Low-Cost Ways to See the Sights of Charleston

40

Uniquely Charleston

46

First-Time Visitors Guide

52

Coffee Shops You’ll Love

56

Love These Landmarks

60

Charleston Area Events

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Be sure to download our free mobile app, “Exploring Charleston SC.”

12

From the Publisher visit to Charleston is a great way to kick off a new year! No visit here is complete without some incredible seafood. Read our feature story on Page 12 to find out just what makes Lowcountry oysters so delicious. Plus, we have a list of restaurants known for serving up some of the area’s best local seafood.

If you’ve come to Charleston to celebrate an anniversary, honeymoon or simply enjoy a romantic weekend, you’ll want to read our article on Page 28. We have suggestions for ways to add some spark to your Charleston vacation.

Don’t miss our article on Page 40 to learn about cultural and historic attractions that you’ll only find here in the Holy City.

After a day of sightseeing and shopping, you’ll want to warm up with a hot cup of coffee at one of our favorite coffee shops. Head to Page 52 for the best spots to grab a latte and a pastry.

If you need more information, download our free mobile app with maps, parking locations, public restroom listings and coupons, plus details on attractions and tours. Search “Exploring Charleston SC” in the App Store or Google Play.

To save money, time and hassle while you’re visiting, purchase a Charleston Tour Pass for access to some of the area’s best tours and attractions at a discounted price. Buy online at CharlestonTourPass.com.

Don’t forget to connect with us on social media – we love seeing how you’re enjoying Charleston! Be sure to use hashtag #CharlestonTraveler.

Traveler of Charleston Team

TRAVELER

Publisher/Founder.................... Keith Simmons Editor........................................... Holly Fisher Writers......................................... Bailey Laskowski Barry Waldman Graphic Designer...................... Heineman Design Circulation................................. Brian Bean Cheral McCombs Cover Photographer ............... Doug Hickok

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of Charleston

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

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 three children.

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 15 years 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 two 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.

info@TRAVELERofCharleston.com | 843-410-2577 | 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 March 1, 2019.

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to CHARLESTON

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HIS AMAZING PLACE ONLY GETS BETTER WITH TIME. Each year more people flock to this historic port city to explore the history, culture and architecture and bask in Southern goodness.

In recent years, Charleston has become a destination for shopping and its incredible culinary scene is attracting global attention.

From arts and theater to fine dining and watersports, this is one city that truly offers something for everyone. But the Holy City has a storied past.

An early English settlement, Charleston has survived wars, fires, earthquakes and hurricanes to rise up as one of the country’s top travel destinations.

As you’re visiting our beloved city, get acquainted with her history, celebrate her charms and delight in all the amazing beauty Charleston has to offer.

1718

1670 English colonists settle Charles Town on the Ashley River

Blackbeard the Pirate sails into Charles Town Harbor with four ships; takes hostages for ransom

1740 Charles Town becomes most critical port in North America for exporting rice

1783 City renamed “Charleston”

1718 1680

Pirate Stede Bonnet is hanged at White Point

Charles Town relocates to the peninsula; population 1,000

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1736 Dock Street Theatre opens, first building in colonial America used exclusively for theatrical performances

1770

1775-1783

College of Charleston founded

Revolutionary War; Siege of Charleston in 1780

1824

1920

Charleston Museum opens to the public (founded in 1773)

Preservation Society founded to protect historic resources

1828-29 Young Army recruit named Edgar Allan Poe is stationed at Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island

1864

2016

H.L. Hunley sinks U.S.S. Housatonic in Charleston harbor

1989 Hurricane Hugo hits the city and surrounding areas with 135 mph winds

In January Joseph P. Riley Jr. retires after 40 years as Charleston mayor

2006 Charleston Wine + Food Festival founded

1886 1861 1791 President George Washington visits, lodging at what is now the HeywardWashington House and attending a reception at the Old Exchange and a social at McCrady’s Longroom

Confederate troops fire the first shots of the Civil War upon Fort Sumter

Major earthquake hits Charleston, damaging 2,000 buildings, killing 110 people

2005 Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge over the Cooper River opens

1977 Spoleto Festival USA begins

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Shelled & Shucked

BY BARRY WALDMAN

photo: Your Attention, Please

Charleston is a Tasty Spot for Lowcountry Oysters

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photo: Your Attention, Please

n clusters at an oyster roast or as an appetizer on the half shell; fried, steamed, roasted, grilled, broiled, smoked or baked; soaked in lemon juice or bathed in mignonette sauce; cooked up in a stew or a soup – Charlestonians love their oysters. And not just any oysters, but Lowcountry oysters, a variety of bivalve mollusk that transports the high tide and pluff mud to the palate.

Charleston oysters are unique because of their location. Oysters feed by daily filtering 30-50 gallons of the flowing water for phytoplankton, resulting in a taste profile that reflects their home. In the fast-moving tides that roil local estuaries with ocean water, Lowcountry oysters pick up the briny taste of the Atlantic with the sweet finish of nutrient-rich soil.

“When you eat our oyster, you’re literally kissing the Lowcountry on the lips,” said Frank Roberts of Lady’s Island Oysters, just south of Edisto Island in Beaufort County. Roberts sells his oysters to iconic Charleston seafood restaurants like The Ordinary, Amen Street and The Darling.

“When you’re eating our oyster, you’re literally kissing the Lowcountry on the lips.” - Frank Roberts OYSTERS ALL YEAR LONG Oysters from the mid-Atlantic, New York, New England and the Canadian Maritimes all have their own flavors, and many of them are featured in Charleston restaurants alongside the hometown variety. But the voracious appetite of Lowcountry residents and visitors prevents much exportation of the local catch. So if you want to sample the unique stylings of the Lowcountry’s best, you have to do it here.

And you can do it anytime, said Noah Singerman, general manager of Leon’s Oyster Shop on upper King Street. The old adage about only eating oysters in months with an “R” is obsolete, he said.

“Usually my reply is that might have been true before the invention of ice.” New techniques adopted by oyster farmers that keep oysters submerged in cooler mud all the time have extended the growing season year-round. january-march 2019 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 13

photo: Your Attention, Please photo: Your Attention, Please

Oysters can be divided between clusters and singles. Clusters grow in the wild, where oysters glue themselves together for protection. They are harvested inexpensively and used in oyster roasts, a staple of Lowcountry life.

“You might have a tailgate with hot dogs and hamburgers somewhere else, but here but we have roasts instead,” says Erin Perkins, editor of Eater Charleston. She believes it’s the camaraderie of shucking and eating together, more than the food itself, that makes Lowcountry oyster roasts ubiquitous.

Longtime Charleston resident Laurie Benjamin agrees. “Oyster roasts mean family to me -- we have them at every holiday gathering and they are enjoyed by all ages.”

Single oysters are generally grown from eggs, incubated by humans and then submerged in local waters to grow to maturity.

Because of the expertise and TLC required, they are more expensive. Those are the oysters you order on the half shell and slurp down raw. Oyster farming is a $1 million enterprise in South Carolina, according to Julie Davis, living marine resources specialist at the S.C. Sea Grant Consortium, part of the state’s $4-5 million oyster industry.

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Because of their salty, earthy flavor profile, Lowcountry oysters may be an acquired taste. For oyster novices, most recommend baby steps. “I started very slow with a saltine and a lot of cocktail sauce,” said Eater Charleston’s Perkins. “Then maybe a roasted oyster, and then maybe a mix, and now straight from the sea.”

Adds Candice Herriott, a food blogger at #CHSFoodWriter and author of “Provisions to Plate,” which highlights the local food scene from a seasonal perspective, “I had to eat them for several years before trying oyster on the half shell.”

Eating oysters is an act of environmental activism too. As filters, oysters keep local waterways clean, and the recycling of their shells back into waterways creates new environments for the next generation of oysters. “There is no greater steward of the environment than a shellfish farmer because without clean water they’re out of business,” said the Sea Grant Consortium’s Davis.

THE VERSATILITY OF OYSTERS All that said, 2 inches of oyster meat is hardly a meal, so something has to accompany it. Here’s the good news: “Oysters are one of the few ingredients that you can have a million different ways,” said Joe DiMaio, chef at The Darling Oyster Bar on King Street.

Shrimp is a natural partner, said Singerman of Leon’s. So, too, are lobster and mussels. “If it grows together, it goes together.” Even fried chicken works, he said.

If it complements oysters, or contrasts with them, it can accompany them.

DiMaio likes oysters as an ingredient in more complex dishes. He suggests visitors try smoked oyster dip, oyster stew or chowder, or oyster over pasta. The saltiness of oysters works well with something cheesy, creamy or smoky like bacon.

Salads, green vegetables, potatoes and bread all round out an oyster dish.

And to drink, a cold beer, dry white wine or champagne. Says Singerman, “The green apple note of champagne works well with oysters.”

Where to go for great seafood in Charleston ny restaurant in Charleston that purports to serve Lowcountry fare has to have good seafood dishes on the menu. In a culinary jewel like Charleston, nearly any seafood or Lowcountry restaurant that’s not a national chain will delight your taste buds – or it won’t stick around.

Erin Perkins, editor of Eater Charleston, says there are so many great choices that picking a few winners seems unfair. We asked her to give it a shot anyway.

For an oyster roast, head to Bowens Island Restaurant – a ragged pile of wooden tables inside a rickety shed down a dirt path miles out of town. Locals agree: it’s worth the drive. Plus, it’s on the way to Folly Beach.

For fried seafood, visit Nana Seafood and Soul, 176 Line St. in Charleston. Gullah food handed down to Nana by her generations of family and then to Carolyn McNeil, the proprietor.

For more adventurous seafood, like barbecue shrimp, whole fried fish and even shark, try Ravenel Seafood on Savannah Highway in Ravenel (about 20 miles west of Charleston).

For high-end seafood, there’s the place that put the “extra” in ordinary, James Beard award-winning chef Mike Lata’s The Ordinary. Fancy seafood and raw bar in a 1927 bank building at 544 King St. Candice Herriott, a food blogger at #CHSFoodWriter and author of “Provisions to Plate,” which highlights the local food scene from a seasonal perspective, takes special aim at The Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island, which serves oysters with “amazing strawberries mixed in with shallots and vinegar. It had literally come from within fivemile radius of the restaurant.”

She also recommends Darling Oyster Bar (513 King St.). “They are exceeding everyone’s expectations,” she said. Plus, check out 167 Raw at 289 East Bay St. Herriott says, “Super great food, no nonsense, good stuff, done right, worth the wait and every dollar you’re going to spend.”

Other can’t-miss spots include the four-diamond Peninsula Grill on Market Street, Coast Bar and Grill on Hutson Alley, Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar on East Bay, Leon’s Oyster Shop on upper King Street, Oyster House on Market Street and Hank’s Seafood on Church Street. Also check out the Charleston Crab House with locations on James Island and right on Market Street in downtown Charleston.

But really, if you walk into any seafood restaurant in the Charleston area that has survived more than a year, you’re probably in for an epicurean delight.

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See + Do Charleston is known for her rich history, picturesque scenery and culinary excellence.

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. See a plantation home, tour the harbor, take a carriage ride or visit a museum.

SEE + DO

ART & THEATER ACTIVITIES The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre & Shoppe 164 Church St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7/8) 843-WE SMILE (937-6453) charlestonmysteries.com • Live comedy theatre in a cozy setting -- clean comic whodunit shows, volunteer audience participation, a la carte appetizers, drinks and desserts. Featuring Inspector NoClue's Murder Mystery (one of Charleston's longest continually running shows), Sherlock Holmes & the Charleston History Mystery, Heist, Heist Baby, and Church Street Daughters of the Late Unpleasantness Garden, Gun & Gin Club, and many more. 1/2 block off City Market.

The Sound of Charleston Show location: Circular Congregational Church: 150 Meeting St. • Charleston • (G:8) • 843-2704903 • soundofcharleston.com • A recent review

by Frommers Travel Guide sums the show up perfectly: “The best night out in the city is this must-see performance of gospel, Gershwin, music of the Civil War, light classics and jazz - all the elements of Charleston's rich musical stew”.

BOAT & WATER 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.

Charleston Harbor Tours Charleston Maritime Center. • 10 Wharfside St., Charleston • (Map: J:5/6) • 843-722-1112 charlestonharbortours.com • Board the Carolina Belle for Charleston’s top-rated harbor tour. This 90-minute tour is live narrated by the Captain and covers over 75 points of interest and 300 years of history. See Fort Sumter, Fort Johnson, Fort Moultrie, Castle Pinckney, The Battery, The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, dolphins, pelicans and much more! Offering great combination packages with other popular attractions saving you time and money! Fully stocked bar and snack bar with items for purchase on board. Call or go online for schedule and tickets or see our ad on page 2.

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SEE + DO

BOAT & WATER Charleston Water Taxi Downtown: Maritime Center • 10 Wharfside St. (Map: K:5/6) • Mount Pleasant: Charleston Harbor Marina at Patriots Point • (Map: O:2) Waterfront Park Pier • (Map J:8) • 843-330-2989 charlestonwatertaxi.com • The water taxi runs on a continuous loop around Charleston Harbor between Patriots Point (USS Yorktown) and downtown Charleston with pick-up/ drop-off points at the Maritime Center and Waterfront Park.

Nature Adventures 1 Shrimpboat Ln. • Mount Pleasant (Map O:2) • 843-568-3222 kayakcharlestonsc.com Our focus is on creating experiences! Take a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour or they can be rented. Located on picturesque Shem Creek where dolphins and wildlife are all around to experience up-close.

Schooner Pride – Charleston’s Tall Ship 360 Concord St. • Charleston • (Map: J:5) 843-722-1112 • schoonerpride.com • Board this beautiful, 49 passenger sailing vessel for a unique and breathtaking excursion on Charleston Harbor. Each 2 hour sail is unique as the Pride sails with the wind and tides, but you are sure to have an experience you won’t forget.

Rated as one of the top 10 things to do in Charleston and one of the top Sunset Sails in North America, the Pride is a great way to get out on the water! Beer, wine, champagne, sodas and water available for purchase on board.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED, go online or call for tickets.

SpiritLine Charleston Harbor Tour 843-722-BOAT(2628) • spiritlinecruises.com Enjoy a 90-minute tour of Charleston’s harbor with 75+ points of interest narrated by City of Charleston licensed tour guides. Discounted Land & Sea Combo Tours available: include either a 90-minute Gray Line City Tour or a 60minute Old South Carriage Tour. Tours depart Aquarium Wharf in downtown Charleston and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant.

Inc.com highlighted Charleston as one of the top four cities attracting millennials. The city’s fast-growing tech scene and abundance of tech jobs – not to mention vibrant culture, beaches and great restaurants – are making Charleston’s millennial population soar.

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“It is impossible for me to enter Charleston from any side, whether by land or by sea, and not feel that here the land is precious; here is a place worth keeping...” -- Charleston artist Elizabeth O'Neill Verner (1883-1979)

SEE + DO

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.

Memorial Waterfront Park is at the base of the Ravenel Bridge in Mount Pleasant. Enjoy the large lawn, pier and nautical-themed playground.

Also stop by the Sweetgrass Basket Pavilion, a cultural arts exhibit on the history of sweetgrass basket making.

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CAMELLIAS

photos: Middleton Place

at Middleton Place

ne of benefits of Charleston’s mild winters is the blooms that add a pop of color to the season and serve as a sign that spring is coming. The camellias, in particular, come to life in the winter.

Look for them in bloom in parks and gardens around town or take a camellia walk at one of the plantations.

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BEAUTY & HISTORY: CAMELLIAS AT MIDDLETON PLACE IS FEB. 2. Take part in this workshop about growing camellias, from propagation to care, at The Garden Market & Nursery. Hear from Sidney Frazier, vice president of horticulture at Middleton Place, and a staff member for more than 40 years.

MIDDLETON PLACE HOSTS CAMELLIA WALKS AT 11 A.M. TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND SATURDAY FROM FEB. 5 THROUGH MARCH 16. Middleton Place has more than 9,000 camellias. The first camellias planted at Middleton Place – gifts from French botanist André Michaux – were planted in 1786. Of the four plants he brought that year, one of them (Reine de Fleurs) still survives. The camellia walks are free with general admission; to reserve your spot, call 843-556-6020 or visit middletonplace.org.

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COMBO TOURS

Charleston Harbor Tours & Boone Hall Plantation Combo

Charleston Harbor Tours & Palmetto Carriage Combo

10 Wharfside St. • (Map J:5/6) • Boone Hall 1235 Longpoint Rd. • (Map: L:4) charlestonharbortours.com • Save time and money by booking this top rated combo tour!

Enjoy a 90 minute, live narrated Charleston Harbor Tour and admission to Boone Hall Plantation, Charleston’s most photographed and the top plantation to visit according to USA Today 10Best! May be taken on separate days.

Charleston Harbor Tours • Charleston Maritime Center, 10 Wharfside Street • (Map :J:5/6) Palmetto Carriage Works • Big Red Barn, 8 Guignard Street • 843-722-1112 • (Map: H:7) CharlestonHarborTours.com PalmettoCarriage.com • Join two of Charleston’s most reputable tour companies for the most popular combination tour. This is a great way to save time and money and get a great overview of the Holy City. Book tickets in advance and you can save $6 on adult tickets! You can even split the tours up over different days! Book online or call for tickets.

Charleston Harbor Tours & Bulldog Tours Ghost or Walking Tour Combo Harbor Tours • 10 Wharfside St. • (Map J:5/6).

Bulldog Tours • 18 Anson St. • (Map H:7) charlestonharbortours.com• Enjoy the top rated, live narrated harbor history tour with Charleston Harbor Tours and choose from one of 3 great walking tours with Charleston’s best walking tour company! Choose from the Ghost & Graveyard Walking Tour, Haunted Jail Tour or Charleston Strolls History Tour.

Collard greens are a staple vegetable here in the South. Eat a heaping plate on New Year’s Day to bring prosperity.

Gray Line & Fort Sumter Tour Combo 843-722-BOAT(2628) • fortsumtertours.com, graylineofcharleston.com • Save $4 per person!

Enjoy a comprehensive tour of Charleston’s historic district and take the only boat tour to Fort Sumter. Licensed and experienced tour guides lead a 90-minute exploration of Charleston’s rich history on air-conditioned mini-buses. The Gray Line tour features 100+ points of interest with a stop at the Battery. Tours depart every 30 minutes from the Charleston Visitor’s Center, 375 Meeting St. Free hotel pickup in historic district.

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SEE + DO

COMBO TOURS

SEE + DO

MOTORIZED LAND TOURS

MUSEUMS AND PARKS

Adventure Sightseeing

Audubon Center at Beidler Forest

AdventureSightseeing.com • 843-762-0088 “See it All” with Charleston’s top-rated bus tour company. With over 30 years of experience offering guided tours of Charleston, Adventure Sightseeing is a must do when visiting. 90minute city tours and plantation tours. The most available combination tours offer great savings on the most popular tours and activities. Departing from the Charleston Visitor’s Center. Free downtown hotel pick up available too!

336 Sanctuary Rd. • 336 Sanctuary Rd. 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.

Gray Line of Charleston graylineofcharleston.com • 843-722-4444 Explore 300 years of history with experienced, licensed tour guides onboard our mini-buses.

Gray Line offers a comprehensive tour of Charleston’s Historic District with 100+ points of interest and a stop at Charleston’s Battery.

Take our 90 minute tour or add a visit to a fully restored antebellum home. Land & Sea Combo includes either a visit to Fort Sumter or a 90-minute tour of the harbor. Tours depart every 30 minutes from the Charleston Visitor’s Center, 375 Meeting St. Free hotel pickup in historic district.

On April 12, 1861, the Confederate artillery opened fire on Fort Sumter in the Charleston harbor. Fort Sumter surrendered 34 hours later.

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City of North Charleston 843-554-5700 • northcharleston.org North Charleston is a lively center of hospitality.

There’s plenty to see and do from waterfront parks, art galleries and gardens to historical sites, museums and shopping centers. Book a tee time for golf, dine at a local restaurant or buy tickets for a show.

Edmondston-Alston House 21 East Battery • Charleston • 843-722-7171 edmondstonalston.com • Circa 1828; a gracious example of early 19th-century elegance, style and comfort. The only historic house downtown with a view of Charleston Harbor. Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday & Monday 1-4:30 p.m. Tickets: $12/adult, $11/military, $8/student, 5 & under free. Combo tickets available with Middleton Place plantation.

SEE + DO

MUSEUMS AND PARKS Fort Sumter Tours 843-722-BOAT(2628) • fortsumtertours.com Walk in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers as you visit this National Historic Site. Cost includes tour of Charleston harbor onboard the boat plus an hour to explore the fort. The National Park Service maintains the Civil War era fortifications as well as restrooms, a gift shop and the Fort Sumter Museum. Fort Sumter Tours is an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service and the only tour that stops at historic Fort Sumter. Tours depart Liberty Square in downtown Charleston (handicapped accessible) and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant

North Charleston/American LaFrance Fire Museum 4975 Centre Point Dr • North Charleston (Map: KK:5) • 843-740-5550 northcharlestonfiremuseum.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.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Rd. • Mount Pleasant (Map: O:2) • 843-884-2727 • patriotspoint.org Walk in the steps of heroes at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, home of the USS Yorktown, and SC’s most unique attraction.

With fresh exhibits, educational programming and other one-of-a-kind events, Patriots Point is the only Charleston-area historic attraction that offers exciting new experiences all year long.

See ad for $3 off coupon.

PLANTATIONS 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.

Middleton Place

Livability put Charleston on its list of the top 10 places to retire. The site points to the charming waterfront location, warm weather, low property taxes, fabulous restaurants, art galleries and golf as just some of the city’s many lures for those ready to retire.

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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.

In Love with Charleston PLAN A ROMANTIC STAY IN THE HOLY CITY

By Holly Fisher

With cobblestone streets, cozy inns, candlelight dinners and waterfront sunsets, it’s impossible not to fall in love while visiting Charleston. Romance is in high supply. So, whether you’re looking for a place to pop the question, tie the knot, celebrate a golden anniversary or simply get away for a romantic weekend, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve highlighted a few activities sure to get the sparks flying.

Enjoy a delicious, three-course meal while sailing around the Charleston harbor during a SpiritLine dinner cruise. Live music, bar service and sunset views make this a truly romantic way to experience Charleston on the water. Private tables for two are available. Buy tickets: spiritlinecruises.com Take a relaxing sail aboard The Schooner Pride, an 84-foot tall ship modeled after the 18th-century coastal trading schooners that once sailed the Charleston harbor. Book a sunset sail for added romance (available beginning in March).

Tickets: schoonerpride.com A carriage ride through the historic streets of downtown Charleston makes a perfect outing for two. Book a private carriage ride with Palmetto Carriage Works and arrive at your romantic dinner in style. Select your pickup and drop-off locations during checkout, and your private tour will be complete with a customized route and historic tidbits along the way. Buy tickets: palmettocarriage.com january-march 2019 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 29

Ocean sunsets and lapping waves make for a magical setting as you and your sweetheart take an evening walk on a beach. A favorite is Folly Beach where the Morris Island Lighthouse stands majestically off the northeast end of Folly Beach. Plus, the lighthouse is the perfect photo background to commemorate a date night or special occasion. Take East Ashley Street until it ends. You can park there and then walk about a quarter mile to the beach. Folly has plenty of restaurants where you can grab a drink after your evening beach stroll.

Or head toward Mount Pleasant to visit Sullivan’s Island near Fort Moultrie. Insider’s tip: park at 201 Station 12. Stroll along this secluded area of beachfront to capture amazing photos of sunsets and dolphins playing in the surf.

Culinary couples will love a cooking class at In the Kitchen with Chef Bob Waggoner located on Market Street. Cook alongside accomplished Chef Bob Waggoner to prepare and enjoy a seasonal tasting menu inspired by the many farmers, fisherman and artisans of the Lowcountry. Space is limited, so book quickly because these classes do sell out: chefbobwaggoner.com.

A night at the theater makes a great evening out.

Several theaters are situated in the heart of downtown, offering everything from Broadway classics to comedy. Check out Dock Street Theatre (charlestonstage.com), The Footlight Players (footlightplayers.net), Threshold Repertory Theatre (thresholdrep.org) or The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre (charlestonmysteries.com).

photo: Wentworth Mansion

Also check out the Charleston Music Hall, which hosts a robust schedule of live music, comedy shows and concerts. Info: charlestonmusichall.com When it comes to romance, it’s tough to beat a couples’ massage. Book an afternoon of pampering and relaxation at one of the area’s most luxurious spas. Options include Belmond Charleston Place (belmond.com/usa), the Spa at Wentworth Mansion (wentworthmansion.com) and The Woodhouse Day Spa (charleston.woodhousespas.com) located in Mount Pleasant.

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It's impossible not to fall in love with Charleston.

WALKING TOURS

Charleston Water Taxi

Bulldog Tours

Downtown: Maritime Center • 10 Wharfside St. (Map: K:5/6) • Mount Pleasant: Charleston Harbor Marina at Patriots Point • (Map: O:2) Waterfront Park Pier • (Map J:8) • 843-330-2989 charlestonwatertaxi.com • The water taxi runs on a continuous loop around Charleston Harbor between Patriots Point (USS Yorktown) and downtown Charleston with pick-up/ drop-off points at the Maritime Center and Waterfront Park.

18 Anson 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.

photo :Cooper River Bridge Run

SEE + DO

TRANSPORTATION

Save the date for the Cooper River Bridge Run on April 6. Thousands of runners and walkers make their way across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge spanning the Cooper River for one of the largest 10K races in the world.

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Charleston Strolls Walk With History Mills House Hotel (corner of Meeting & Queen) 18 Anson St. • Charleston • (Map H:7) 843-722-8687 • charlestonstrolls.com 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.

Eclectic Tours Departs from: 158 Meeting St. • Charleston (Map G:8) • 843-806-9915 walktourscharleston.com Offering the best and most unique walking tours in the city! Historical walking tours with an eclectic mix of stories and subject matter.

All tours are expertly guided by travel writer Jill Paris. Book tours online or call, multiple tour themes are offered.

12 Free or Low-Cost Ways to See the Sights of Charleston

By Holly Fisher Whether you love history, nature or beautiful water views, it’s easy to find plenty to do in Charleston. The good news is there are some terrific attractions and activities that won’t bust your vacation budget. We’ve put together a list of 12 free or low-cost things to do around the Charleston area.

1.

Riverfront Park sits on the bank of the Cooper River in North Charleston. Stop by and see the Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial honoring the many military personnel and civilians who served our country and the Charleston region at the former Charleston Navy Base. (visitnorthcharleston.org)

2.

Deep Water Vineyard on Wadmalaw Island turns muscadine grapes, a fruit native to the Southeastern United States, into wine. Visit Tuesday through Saturday for a self-guided tour of the 7 miles of vineyards. And for just $7, taste five different wines and take home a complimentary wine glass. (deepwatervineyard.com)

3.

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge spanning the Cooper River has a more than 2-mile bike/pedestrian lane called Wonders’ Way. It is accessible from East Bay Street in downtown Charleston and on the Mount Pleasant side. Be sure to stop at the top for a bird’s eye view of Charleston.

4.

Admire the majestic Angel Oak tree, part of a public city park. Its canopy of branches spans 17,000 square feet. The tree is located at 3688 Angel Oak Road on Johns Island.

5.

See Charleston’s historic City Hall, 80 Broad St., constructed in the early 1800s. Also, the picturesque Washington Square Park is located by city hall and features beautiful architecture and ironwork.

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6.

Head to Market Street where you can browse the many shops and vendors in the Charleston City Market. Plus, visit The Confederate Museum (confederatemuseumcharlestonsc.com) at the intersection of Meeting and Market streets. Built in the 1840s, this building was originally constructed to be the front entrance to the roofed market space where fruits, meats, vegetables and fish were sold. The building is owned and operated by Charleston Chapter #4 United Daughters of the Confederacy. Visit 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday; admission is $5 for adults (cash only).

7. Stop by the Red Barn at Palmetto Carriage Works, 8 Guignard St., to visit the horses, mules and other animals. There’s a fee for tours, but no charge to visit the barn. (palmettocarriage.com)

8.

Charles Pinckney National Historic Site on Long Point Road in Mount Pleasant highlights the work of Charles Pinckney, a principal author and a signer of the U.S. Constitution. This remnant of his coastal plantation is preserved to tell of a life of public service and to highlight the lives of enslaved African Americans on Lowcountry plantations and their influences on Pinckney. (nps.gov)

9.

Summerville’s town square is a picturesque downtown lined with boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and antique stories. Go window shopping before stopping in Guerin’s Pharmacy – the oldest pharmacy in South Carolina – for an old-fashioned ice cream float. (visitsummerville.com)

10.

Visit the cemetery at the Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting St., likely the oldest English burial ground still in existence in Charleston. The earliest unmarked grave dates from 1695. (circularchurch.org)

11. Charleston is home to America’s only tea garden. Visit the Charleston Tea Plantation on Wadmalaw Island and take a complimentary factory tour and browse the gift shop. (charlestonteaplantation.com)

12. For iconic Charleston views, walk the Battery. Once a defensive seawall, the area is now known for its historic homes and nearby White Point Garden and Battery Park at the intersection of Murray Boulevard and East Battery Street.

Head to our blog at travelerofcharleston.com/blog for even more free things to do in Charleston.

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SEE + DO

WALKING TOURS Taste of the Lowcountry Tour & Cooking Demonstration Departs from Mercantile and Mash • 701 East Bay St. • Charleston • (Map H:2) • 843.727.1100 charlestonfoodtours.com Join us as we take an exclusive look at Charleston’s gourmet food emporium followed by a cooking demonstration at the Culinary Institute of Charleston! The tour starts with learning the history of Lowcountry cuisine while tasting some locally made delicacies in a local historical landmark. The finale is a cooking demonstration by an award winning chef that prepares a mouthwatering dish to be shared with all the participants.

USS Yorktown Ghost Tours 40 Patriots Pt. Rd. • (Map O:2) yorktownghosttours.com Walk in the steps of Heros where many gave their all and a few may still linger on this legendary WWII aircraft carrier. Featured on Syfy Channel’s “Ghost Hunters.”

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.”

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USS Yorktown

Uniquely Charleston Things to do in Charleston -- and nowhere else!

By Bailey Laskowski

Charleston is truly a special city. Consistently ranked on lists of the best places to visit, Charleston stands in a class all her own. You’ve come to the right place for a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Visit these attractions and landmarks that are unique to Charleston. Be sure to take some photos – you won’t find these spots anywhere else.

1. STAND WHERE THE CIVIL WAR BEGAN nps.gov/fosu/index.htm Decades of growing political tension around the issue of slavery between the North and South erupted in civil war on April 12, 1861, when Confederate artillery opened fire on Fort Sumter, a federal fort in the Charleston harbor. Fort Sumter surrendered 34 hours later.

While in Charleston, take a boat ride to Fort Sumter and stand on the grounds where it all began.

2. VISIT THE FIREPROOF BUILDING & MUSEUM schistory.org | 100 Meeting St., Charleston A National Historic Landmark, the Fireproof Building is known as the oldest fire-resistant building in the United States. The structure was built in 1827 with the purpose of housing city records for ultimate safe-keeping. Now, the building houses the South Carolina Historical Society Museum.

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Old City Jail

Fort Sumter

3. TOUR THE OLD HAUNTED JAIL bulldogtours.com | 21 Magazine St., Charleston The Old City Jail was built in 1802 and operated as such until 1939. Thousands of men, women, and children died while confined within these eerie brick walls. It’s rumored to be the most haunted building in Charleston, and the fact that paranormal encounters continue through this day serves as proof. Most of the building’s original structures remain intact, such as the cells and warden’s quarters. Enter if you dare.

4. VISIT THE BIRTHPLACE OF THE CAROLINA COLONY southcarolinaparks.com/charles-towne-landing | 1500 Old Towne Road, Charleston Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site sits on a marshy point off Ashley River, where a group of English settlers landed in 1670 and established what would become the birthplace of the Carolina colony. Charles Towne Landing introduces visitors to the earliest colonial history of Charleston.

5. EXPLORE WITH THE CHARLESTON TOUR PASS charlestontourpass.com Vacation planning has never been easier thanks to Charleston’s first all-access pass to key attractions around the city. Visit more 30 of Charleston’s best landmarks, museums and experiences without paying an entry fee or waiting in line. You can choose how many days you want (one to five days available) and then start exploring the entire city while receiving discounts at local restaurants and beverage establishments.

6. CATCH A SHOW INSIDE AMERICA’S FIRST THEATER charlestonstage.com | 135 Church St., Charleston In 1736, Dock Street Theatre opened its doors for the first time for a showing of “The Recruiting Officer.” The building made history as the first one in America built exclusively for theatrical performances. The first opera performance in America, “Flora,” just so happened to take place at this beautiful and historic location. The Charleston Stage continues to bring the theater to life with ongoing productions, giving everyone the chance to take a seat in the 1700s building and observe one of America’s favorite art forms.

7. EXPERIENCE THE FIRST MUSEUM IN AMERICA charlestonmuseum.org | 360 Meeting St., Charleston Founded in 1773, The Charleston Museum gained its title as America’s first museum. Even today, it continues to discover, preserve, interpret, celebrate and share. The collections, exhibitions, educational programs, and events are designed to inspire curiosity and conversation about the South Carolina Lowcountry and the stories that make us who we are.

8. FEEL THE POWER OF A WWII AIRCRAFT CARRIER patriotspoint.org | 40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant The USS Yorktown was the 10th aircraft carrier to serve in the U.S. Navy. The ship was renamed in honor of Yorktown (CV-5) that sunk during the epic Battle of Midway in 1942.

This World War II vessel received the Presidential Unit Citation and earned 11 battle stars for service. Climb aboard and tour multiple facets of this ship while learning about the history and sacrifices of WWII. january-march 2019 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 41

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.

Shop King Street On the second Sunday of each month, the street is closed so visitors and locals can enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment.

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 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.

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.

Middleton Place hosts Camellia Walks each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from Feb. 5 to March 16.

The gardens at this historic plantation will be flush with color as these beautiful plants bloom brightly during the winter season.

We know it’s really hard to leave Charleston. But don’t worry! You can stay connected with the world’s best city in between visits! Come follow us on Twitter @traveler_mag and on Instragram @travelerofcharleston where we share beautiful photos and cool stories year-round.

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SHOP + SAVOR 44 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com january-march 2019

Shop your way around Charleston DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON ■ King Street is a shopper’s paradise lined with national retailers, locally owned boutiques with clothing, housewares and handmade items. 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 300 vendors selling everything from art and jewelry to T-shirts and sweetgrass baskets.

■ Visit the Night Market from 6:3010:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday for live music and local arts and crafts.

SUMMERVILLE Take the main Summerville exit off Interstate 26 and follow the signs to the charming historic district and town square. There you’ll find loads of local boutiques and shops, including 12 antique stores, coffee shops and restaurants, a community theater and one of the top quilt shops in the country. From 5:30-8:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month, businesses stay open later and the town square is filled with entertainment.

MOUNT PLEASANT ■ Mount Pleasant Towne Centre on Highway 17 North is home to national retailers, local boutiques and restaurants. Shop at Belk and Belk Men’s Store, Copper Penny, Palmetto Moon, Hairy Winston Pet Boutique, Athleta and more. 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 pick up something new to wear at Escapada Living or II Brunettes. Carolina Girls carries gift items, jewelry and stationery. The Coastal Cupboard has a selection of specialty food items and cookware. shopbellehall.com NORTH CHARLESTON Tanger Outlets has dozens of nationally known retailers offering apparel for adults and children, shoes, accessories, housewares and jewelry. The area also has several restaurants and is easily accessible from both Interstates 526 and 26. tangeroutlet.com/charleston

Share your Charleston shopping moments on our Facebook page at facebook.com/travelermag january-march 2019 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 45

Visiting Charleston for the First Time?

WE HAVE YOUR GUIDE!

By Bailey Laskowski

Charleston has so much to offer that it can be a little overwhelming trying to figure out what to see and do first. If you only have a short time to visit or if it's your first time in the Holy City, there are few things you just can’t miss. We’ve compiled a list of the mustvisit attractions and tours to see while you’re here.

Get started! Charleston is waiting.

CARRIAGE TOUR Book a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown. Your tour guide is randomly assigned a route and will delight your tour group with stories and facts about Charleston from her earliest days to the present.

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND Sullivan’s Island is a breathtaking stretch of beach. Frequented by locals, this beach offers a serene environment to relax and take in the ocean breeze while watching for dolphins. The vibe on the island is calm and casual with multiple small shops and restaurants.

SHEM CREEK One of the most picturesque waterways in the area, Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant is a great spot for kayaking or simply enjoying drinks and a fresh seafood dinner with a water view.

PLANTATION TOUR Visit one of Charleston’s many plantations to see how wealthy plantation owners lived and for a deeper understanding of slave life in the Lowcountry.

RAINBOW ROW If you’re walking down Market or King streets, take a detour to Rainbow Row and Battery Park starting on East Bay Street. Rainbow Row includes a stretch of 13 brightly colored historic homes that you’ve probably seen in famous photographs. It’s definitely a sight to see for yourself. Rainbow Row also sits along the Battery, a Civil War-era defensive seawall and promenade along the Charleston harbor. Continue along the Battery to White Point Garden, a public park on the tip of the peninsula. Walk the park to see several statues and monuments.

WALKING HISTORY TOUR To fully immerse yourself in Charleston culture and history, walk the historic streets on a history tour. These on-the-ground tours offer a whole new perspective on the Holy City and afterward you’ll feel like a local with all your newfound Charleston knowledge.

FORT SUMTER Visit the spot where the Civil War began. On April 12, 1861, the Confederate artillery opened fire on this fort located in the Charleston harbor. Fort Sumter surrendered 34 hours later, and Union forces tried for nearly four years to take it back. Learn the history behind the Civil War, while taking in the beauty of the Charleston harbor.

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GET YOUR OYSTER ON Mark your calendars for a few notable Charleston oyster roasts!

JAN. 6 - SAVE THE LIGHT OYSTER ROAST Bowens Island: 1870 Bowens Island Road, Charleston savethelight.org JAN. 20 - EAST COOPER MEALS ON WHEELS OYSTER ROAST Palmetto Islands County Park: 444 Needlerush Parkway, Mount Pleasant, ecmow.org JAN. 27 - 36TH ANNUAL LOWCOUNTRY OYSTER FESTIVAL Boone Hall Plantation: 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant, charlestonrestaurantassociation.com FEB. 15 - DUCKS UNLIMITED OYSTER ROAST AND COOKOUT Visitor Center: 375 Meeting St., Charleston ducks.org/south-carolina MARCH 10 - FRIENDS OF THE LOWCOUNTRY SENIOR CENTER OYSTER ROAST Bowens Island: 1870 Bowens Island Road, Charleston MARCH 17 - EAST COOPER LAND TRUST RACE & ROAST Oakland Plantation: 1164 Porchers Bluff Road, Mount Pleasant, eastcooperland.org/events ONGOING: OYSTERS ON THE POINT Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina: 20 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 16

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Eat + Drink 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!

From shrimp and grits and crab cakes to local craft beer and spirits, you’ll discover why Charleston food is fabulous.

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.

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 p.m. and can stroll through the gardens prior to dinner service, which begins at 6 p.m.

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.

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EAT + DRINK 50 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com january-march 2019

Coffee Shops You’ll Love

By Bailey Laskowski & Holly Fisher

hether you need an afternoon pick-me-up after a busy day of sightseeing or you simply want to relax with a morning latte in the heart of downtown Charleston, there are plenty of great choices. The Charleston area has some delicious local coffee shops that make a mean mocha and serve up locally made pastries, muffins and breakfast sandwiches. Here are a few of our favorite picks:

W

DOWNTOWN Second State Coffee 70 1/2 Beaufain St. secondstatecoffee.com This cozy coffeehouse is in Charleston’s historic Harleston Village and outfitted with custom-built tables made from heart pine wood used in the construction of some of Charleston’s oldest buildings and a standup bar with wrought iron stools. Enjoy a selection of coffees from around the world.

Bitty & Beau’s Coffee 159 Church St. bittyandbeauscoffee.com This coffee shop is a feel good stop!

The shop is run by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who provide a truly unique customer service experience.

Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer 4 Vanderhorst St. kuducoffeeandcraftbeer.com Roasts its own specialty coffee plus espresso beverages. Order up pastries and sandwiches made by local bakeries WildFlour Pastry, Normandy Farm Artisan Bakery and Saffron Bakery.

There’s no Wi-Fi at this coffee shop but there’s a great outdoor patio where you can enjoy coffee with friends or get caffeinated before heading out for a day of touring Charleston.

Babas on Cannon 11 Cannon St. babasoncannon.com Babas bills itself as “an old-world cafe serving espresso and apero,” and it’s grabbing some major well-deserved attention. Tucked into the Cannonborough neighborhood, Babas serves up a wide range of coffee beverages and small bites. It’s perfect if you’re on the go and need something quick and delicious.

MOUNT PLEASANT Collective Coffee 766 S. Shelmore Lane Baristas use the single-pour method, so each cup is prepared singularly using seasonal Intelligentsia coffees and teas.

Metto Coffee & Tea 354 W. Coleman Blvd. mettocoffee.com A favorite among locals for a cup of morning joe while doing a little work or meeting with friends or colleagues. Enjoy specialty coffee and made-from-scratch pastries and paninis.

Tidal Grounds Coffee 1039 Highway 41, Suite 200 tidalgroundscoffee.com This cozy neighborhood coffee shop is perfect for an afternoon coffee stop to recharge and refuel. Tidal Grounds brews coffee roasted locally by Springbok Roasters and serves up pastries and desserts made locally by Bakies, Brown’s Court Bakery, and WildFlour Pastry.

Vintage Coffee Café 219 Simmons St. vintagecoffeecafe.com Vintage transformed an old quaint Mount Pleasant house into the coffee shop of your dreams. They put extra time and care into each menu item and every cup of coffee is high quality. Plus, don’t miss the gourmet toast bar. There’s a large outdoor area for kids to play while you enjoy some morning quiet time.

JAMES ISLAND Muddy Waters Coffee Bar 1739 Maybank Highway muddywaterscoffee.com Muddy Waters brews Counter Culture Coffee from Durham, N.C., plus a selection of teas. The walls are filled with exquisite art and the corners are coffee shop cozy with chairs and tables for relaxing or catching up on some work.

WEST ASHLEY Classic Coffee Roasters 27 Magnolia Road classiccoffeeroasters.com Located in the Avondale neighborhood, this spacious spot has plenty of indoor seating and an outdoor courtyard. Stop by for a tasty vanilla latte, shot of espresso or a pastry from WildFlour Pastry or Normandy Farm Artisan Bakery.

NORTH CHARLESTON Orange Spot Coffeehouse 1011 E. Montague Ave. orangespotcoffee.com This coffee shop is located in the heart of North Charleston’s popular Park Circle with plenty of restaurants and shopping.

Stop by for an afternoon Cha Yen (Thai iced tea) or start your day with freshly roasted coffee from Thirty-Thirty Coffee Co. or one of the house-made seasonal creations.

SUMMERVILLE Coastal Coffee Roasters 108 E. 3rd North St. coastalcoffeeroasters.com Located in downtown Summerville, Coastal Coffee Roasters has been micro-roasting specialty coffees since 2010. Stop by for a specialty coffee or to grab breakfast or lunch. Check the event calendar for yoga classes and live music.

EAT + DRINK

CASUAL DINING Charleston Crab House Downtown: 41 S. Market St. • (Map I:7) 843-795-1963. James Island: 145 Wappoo Creek Dr. • (Area Map) • 843-853-2900 charlestoncrabhouse.com • Serving Fresh Lowcountry seafood everyday! Indoor/patio, casual and family friendly. Visit James Island for waterfront dining or Market Street for rooftop dining. Reservations recommended.

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 like Certified Angus Beef. The varied menu menu comes with many options: soups, chili, both hearty and heart-healthy sandwiches, wraps, giant spuds and desserts.

Oyster House on Market 35 S. Market St. • Charleston • (Map H:7) 843-723-1151 • oysterhouse.menu • Come get fresh with us! Oyster House on Market is the newest restaurant in downtown Charleston!

We are a causal fine dining establishment with a focus on oysters and seafood. Open for lunch and dinner daily.

The Shelter Kitchen + Bar 202 Coleman Blvd. • Mount Pleasant • (Map O:2) 843-388-3625 • theshelterkitchenandbar.com One of Mount Pleasant's favorite restaurants and bars located by the hotspot known as Shem Creek. Locally sourced menu serving amazing brunch, lunch, dinner and a great place for a cocktail any time of day on their dog friendly patio.

DRINK + NIGHTLIFE Deep Water Vineyard 6775 Bears Bluff Rd. • Wadmalaw Island (Area Map) • 843-559-6867 deepwatervineyard.com Open: Tue - Sat 10 am - 5 pm • After indulging in a tasting at Charleston's only winery, stay and relax with us - we have many animals, a garden, outdoor games, and 50 acres to explore. It’s a full day of fun for the whole family.

Riverfront Park in North Charleston sits on the bank of the Cooper River.

Stop by and see the Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial honoring the many military personnel and civilians who served our country and the Charleston region at the former Charleston Navy Base.

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Love these Landmarks Soak up Charleston history at these key attractions

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earn the history of Charleston and see some of the city’s most beautiful public spaces by visiting these area landmarks. These attractions are free or low cost. Be sure to download the free Traveler of Charleston mobile app for information and directions to all of these landmarks and more. (travelerofcharleston.com/download-the-app) Angel Oak Estimated to be 300-400 years old, the majestic Angel Oak is worth a visit. The oak tree towers 65 feet high and has a circumference of 25.5 feet. Its area of shade is 17,000 square feet and its largest limb has a circumference of 11.5 feet, and a length of 89 feet. No admission to visit the park and take photos, plus there’s a gift shop and picnic area. Address: 3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge Opened in July 2005, this cable-stayed bridge spanning the Cooper River has become an iconic symbol of Charleston. This architectural marvel has a 2-mile bike/pedestrian lane called Wonders’ Way. Free parking is available on East Bay Street in downtown Charleston and also on the Mount Pleasant side at Memorial Waterfront Park so you can walk the bridge for a bird’s eye view of the Charleston harbor.

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Fort Moultrie Visit Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island for a greater understanding of history from the American Revolution through World War II. Insider tip: Walk the beach there for stunning views of Fort Sumter and the Charleston skyline from a distance. Address: 1214 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island

Fort Sumter Calling all history buffs! Visit the spot where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Located in the Charleston harbor, Fort Sumter also played key roles in the Revolutionary War against the British and was Charleston’s main defense from seaside attacks. In 1966, the site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

You can visit the fort via ferry operated by Fort Sumter Tours. Tours depart from the Aquarium Wharf downtown or at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. january-march 2019 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 57

Marion Square Spanning more than 6 acres in the heart of downtown Charleston, Marion Square was established as a parade ground for the state arsenal under construction on the north side of the square. It is best known as the former Citadel Green because The Citadel occupied the arsenal from 1843 until 1922, when the military college moved to Charleston’s west side. The name was then changed to Marion Square, in honor of Francis Marion. This city park hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year. Address: 329 Meeting St., Charleston

Pitt Street Bridge Once a trolley bridge that connected Sullivan's Island and Mount Pleasant, the Pitt Street Bridge in Mount Pleasant’s Old Village is a beautiful spot for walking and jogging.

Fish from the pier or kayak in the Charleston harbor. The park is also a spectacular spot for catching the sunset with the Ravenel Bridge in the background.

Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon The Old Exchange is a must-see for all Charleston visitors. During your visit, you will discover this building’s integral role in our country’s quest for independence and its important service to our young nation.

The Old Exchange began its existence as a public building and remains so today. Take a tour (admission: $5-$10) to see various aspects of Charleston history during the Colonial and Revolutionary eras and put into context the people and events of the period.

Address: 122 East Bay St., Charleston

Rainbow Row Rainbow Row is the name for a series of colorful historic houses located north of Tradd Street and south of Elliot Street on East Bay Street. It is referred to as Rainbow Row for the pastel colors used to paint the houses.

It is a common tourist attraction and is one of the most photographed areas of Charleston.

You may hear a number of tales as to why the houses are painted so colorfully.

One is so intoxicated sailors coming in from the port could remember which house to bunk in.

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The Battery The Battery is a landmark defensive seawall and promenade in Charleston, famous for its stately antebellum homes. Named for a Civil War coastal defense artillery battery at the site, it stretches along the lower shores of the Charleston peninsula, bordered by the Ashley and Cooper rivers. Address: 2 Murray Blvd., Charleston

St. Michaels Church & Graveyard St. Michael’s Church is the oldest church edifice in the City of Charleston, standing on the site of the first Anglican Church built south of Virginia. In the 1680s, a small wooden church – the first in the new town of Charles Town – was built on this spot for the families of the Church of England and named St. Philip’s. John Rutledge, the first governor of South Carolina and signer of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution is buried in the graveyard here.

Address: 80 Meeting St., Charleston

Riley Waterfront Park Riley Waterfront Park is a 12-acre park along a one-half mile stretch of the Cooper River in Charleston. The public park has a pier with swings and it’s a great place to see some dolphins and snap some photos of the harbor.

Be sure to dip your toes in the Pineapple Fountain – another iconic Charleston symbol.

Address: 1 Vendue Range, Charleston

Charles Pinckney National Historic Site Visitor Center Charles Pinckney was a principal author and a signer of the U.S. Constitution. This historic site is a 28-acre remnant of Pinckney's Snee Farm, a rice and indigo plantation.

Located on site is an 1828 coastal cottage that serves as a museum and visitor center.

Exhibits tell the story of Pinckney and his contributions to the United States as a young and emerging nation as well as detailing 18th-century plantation life for free and enslaved people at Snee Farm. Address: 1254 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant

St. Philips Church & Graveyard Building and graveyard are open to the public Monday to Friday. Established in 1681, St. Philip’s is the oldest religious congregation in South Carolina. The first St. Philip’s Church, a wooden building, was built between 1680 and 1681 at the corner of Broad and Meeting streets on the present day site of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. It was damaged in a hurricane in 1710 and a new St. Phillip’s Church was begun a few blocks away on Church Street. Address: 146 Church St., Charleston january-march 2019 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 59

Charleston Area Events Charleston Wine and Food JANUARY 1-31

Museum Mile Month – During the month of January, enjoy access to participating Museum Mile sites with the purchase of one ticket price. Spend the month learning about Charleston’s rich history and culture at six museums, five historic homes and more along a 1-mile stretch of Meeting Street. charlestonmuseummile.org

5-6

Lowcountry Civil War Show & Sale – Swords, knives, old guns plus bottles and coins will be available for purchase at this event in Mount Pleasant. The show also includes free appraisals and seminars. facebook.com/SouthCarolinaCivilWarHeritageTrails

9-20

Charleston Restaurant Week – Dozens of restaurants all over the Charleston area offer specially priced menus. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com | 843-577-4030

12

Charleston Marathon – This 26.2-mile run showcases the beauty and the history of the Lowcountry, starting in downtown Charleston and ending in North Charleston.

Half-marathon and 5K run options are available. charlestonmarathon.com

18-2/23 “She Drives Me Crazy” – A five-story walkup is overrun with love, angst and the pursuit of better coffee. It’s “Friends” meets “Seinfeld” in this new romantic comedy with tunes from Celine Dion to Spin Doctors. 34west.org | 843-901-9343 19-20

“Number the Stars” – As German troops begin to “relocate” all the Jews of Denmark, 10-year-old Annemarie Johansen’s family takes in Annemarie’s best friend, Ellen Rosen. Through Annemarie’s eyes, audiences watch the Danish resistance help almost the entire Jewish population of Denmark escape across the sea to Sweden.

Performed by Charleston Stage at the historic Dock Street Theatre. charlestonstage.com | 843-577-7183

24-27

Charleston Jazz Festival – Celebrate Charleston’s rich jazz heritage as more than 100 local, regional and nationally recognized jazz musicians come together to share their talent and love of jazz. charlestonjazz.com/festival

25-26

Kiawah Comedy Weekend – Get away to Kiawah Island Golf Resort for two nights of nonstop laughter with some of the nation’s most acclaimed comedians. Packages include exclusive table seating and a Q&A with select comedians. kiawahcomedyweekend.com | 800-654-2924

25-2/3

The Red Velvet Cake Wars – This fast-paced Southern-fried comedy will leave you wondering why your family reunions can’t be this much fun. Performed by Flowertown Players in downtown Summerville. flowertownplayers.org | 843-875-9251

27

Lowcountry Oyster Festival – Join in the world’s largest oyster festival at Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant. More than 80,000 pounds of oysters are part of this favorite winter event that includes oyster shucking and oyster-eating contests as well as live music, wine, a selection of domestic and imported beers, a children’s area and a food court. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com | 843-577-4030

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photo: Marie Rodriguez

january – march 2019

FEBRUARY 2

Beauty & History Camellia Workshop – Visit Middleton Place to learn about the camellias that begin blooming this time of year. middletonplace.org

6-24

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” – The story of 15-year-old Christopher Boone, who having been accused of killing a neighbor’s dog named Wellington, sets out to find the real culprit. Though he possesses a brilliant mind and is a marvel at math, Christopher is ill equipped to interact with others. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched, and distrusts strangers. Overcoming his fears, he sets out on a remarkable detective journey that will upturn his world and the world around him. charlestonstage.com | 843-577-7183

15-17

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition – Conservationists, art collectors and nature enthusiasts come from all over the country for this three-day celebration of art, animal demonstrations, environmental education and culinary events. sewe.com 843-723-1748

16

Bacon and Bourbon – Enjoy unlimited samples of bacon dishes and bourbon tastings plus live music, bull riding championship, laser skeet shooting and a cigar cabana at the North Charleston Convention Center. baconandbourbonsc.com

16, 20 23

Carolina Challenge Cup – The Charleston Battery welcomes Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United, Columbus Crew SC, and Minnesota United FC to MUSC Health Stadium for the 14th staging of the tournament. charlestonbattery.com

photo: Southeastern Wildlife Exposition

MARCH 1-2

“Romeo & Juliet” – Violinist Robyn Bollinger joins the Charleston Symphony Orchestra to perform Paganini’s Violin Concerto, a virtuosic masterpiece that is widely considered the most technically difficult of all violin concertos. Bollinger made her debut with the Philadelphia Orchestra at age 12 and has since become a celebrated violinist and chamber musician around the world. gaillardcenter.org | 843-724-5212

3-7

Kiawah National Pro-Am – PGA club professionals from across the U.S., along with three of their members, will tee it up during this 72-hole stroke play event on four of Kiawah Island Golf Resort's championship courses. kiawahresort.com 800-768-2860

6-10

Charleston Wine + Food Festival – Food lovers won’t want to miss this annual celebration of culinary excellence. Enjoy the flavors of Charleston’s culinary scene and renowned culture at numerous events featuring outstanding chefs from around the country as well as pastry chefs, authors, beverage professionals and food writers. charlestonwineandfood.com | 843-727-9998

Southeastern Wildlife Expo

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

brewery/distillery article.

For even more Charleston area events, check our online calendar at travelerofcharleston.com/events.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

brewery/distillery article. area events, check our online calendar at travelerofcharleston.com/events.

For even more Charleston 6-24

“Steel Magnolias” – Truvy, Ouiser, Clairee, M’Lynn, Annelle, and Shelby have gathered once again at Truvy’s Beauty Parlor to primp, gossip and spar with one an other. As hair is teased, blow-dried, and permed, the comic sparks fly in this hilarious and beloved classic Southern comedy. charlestonstage.com | 843-577-7183

8-24

“Death of a Salesman” – Centering around Willy Loman facing the end of his career and struggling to keep his family together, Arthur Miller’s classic play explores a landscape of unrealized hopes and asks what happens when you are written out of the American dream. footlightplayers.net | 843-722-4487

9

St. Paddy’s Day Block Party & Parade – Wear green and celebrate with live music, street vendors, a kids’ zone and more in the Olde Village of North Charleston. The parade begins at noon and festivities continue until 7 p.m. northcharleston.org 843-740-5854

13-4/18 Festival of Houses and Garden – Explore the city’s historic district in a series of tours showcasing Charleston’s distinctive architecture, history, gardens and culture. A number of special events are also part of this springtime event, including morning history walks, educational luncheons, musical concerts and more. historiccharleston.org | 843-722-3405 15-17

Charleston International Antiques Show – Collectors and enthusiasts will enjoy this range of English, European and American period furnishing, decorative arts and fine art plus architectural elements, garden furniture, vintage jewelry and silver – all from the late 17th to 20th centuries. historiccharleston.org | 843-722-3405

30

Pet Fest – Bring your four-legged and leashed friends to Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park for exhibits, demonstrations, experts and entertainment.

Pet-related organizations and businesses will showcase their causes, products and services. charlestoncountyparks.com

ONGOING EVENTS Garden Strolls & Wine Tasting – March 13 to May 29, visit historic Middleton Place to experience the garden in all its springtime glory.

Weekend Wine Down – Each Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. at Deep Water Vineyard on Wadmalaw Island. Enjoy food, music and wine tastings. deepwatervineyard.com Free camellia walks at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens – Enjoy the 20,000 camellias blooming at this historic plantation. Walk are offered daily through March. magnoliaplantation.com/camellias.html Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre – Audience-interactive comic mysteries run most evenings. charlestonmysteries.com Night Market – From 6:30-10:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, this event showcases local artists, food vendors and designers in the historic Charleston City Market. thecharlestoncitymarket.com 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 5:30-8:30 p.m. every third Thursday. Shops and restaurants are 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 – Special educational event on the second Saturday of the month; cannon demonstrations the third Saturday of the month (except January). southcarolinaparks.com | 843-852-4200 * Event details are subject to change. Please call ahead or check the listed website for confirmation.

For even more Charleston area events, check our online calendar at travelerofcharleston.com/events 62 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com january-march 2019

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Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, J:1 Battery, G:10 Charleston Museum, G:4 Charleston Place, G:7 Children’s Museum, G:4 Citadel Military College, B:1 College of Charleston, F:6 Dock Street Theatre, G:8 Four Corners of Law, G:8 Gaillard Municipal Auditorium, H:6 Gibbes Museum, G:H King Street Shopping District, G-6:7 Marion Square, G:5 Market Hall & City Market, H:7 Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, H:9 Old Slave Mart Museum, H:8 Rainbow Row, H:9 South Carolina Aquarium, J:5 St. Philip’s Church, H:8 St. Michael’s Church, G:9 The Powder Magazine, G:8 Visitor Center, G:4 Waterfront Park/Pineapple Fountain, I:8

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Getting Around Some transportation options for getting around downtown Charleston and the surrounding areas.

■ WATER TAXI: Transports visitors from downtown Charleston (Aquarium Wharf or Waterfront Park) to Mount Pleasant (Patriots Point or Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina).

Taxi runs each hour; $12 for allday passes, 3 and under are free.

No reservations needed.

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

■ UBER AND LYFT Ride services are available in the area.

january-march 2019 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 67

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SEE + DO Adventures Sightseeing Tours Audubon Center at Francis Beidler Barrier Island Eco Tours Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Boone Hall Plantation Bulldog Ghost Walking Tours Charleston Food Tours Charleston Harbor Tour by SpiritLine Charleston Harbor Tours Charleston Strolls Charleston Tour Pass Charleston Water Taxi Combo: Carriage & Harbor Tour Eclectic Tours of Charleston Edmondston-Alston House Fort Sumter Tours GrayLine Bus Tours Middleton Place Nature Adventures North Charleston Fire Museum Palmetto Carriage Tours Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum Schooner Pride Sailing Tour The Sound of Charleston USS Yorktown Ghost Tours

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SHOP + SAVOR Charleson Cusine Mag Charleston.com Dacuba’s Fine Jewelry Mount Pleasant, Town of North Charleston, City of Summerville, Town of Terrace Oaks Antique Mall Tour Video Network

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EAT + DRINK Charleston Crab House Cru Café Deep Water Vineyard East Bay Deli Middleton Place Restaurant Oyster House on Market SpiritLine Dinner Cruise The Shelter Kitchen + Bar

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travelerofcharleston.com january-march 2019 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 69

DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS

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Enjoy all North Charleston has to offer

NORTH CHARLESTON is a diverse community of small businesses, community events and family friendly fun. Just a short drive from historic downtown Charleston, the City of North Charleston welcomes visitors to the Lowcountry eager to soak up that southern charm.

Make time to visit North Charleston for shopping, culture, great food and even better company.

Experience North Charleston Whether you enjoy history, the outdoors or family fun, North Charleston has an experience for every visitor.

At the North Charleston Fire Museum and Educational Center (northcharlestonfiremuseum.org), see a collection of 19 antique fire trucks plus interactive exhibits, including a real fire pole and education about how to exit a burning building.

Wannamaker County Park (ccprc.com) has more than 1,000 acres of woodlands and wetlands with miles of trails, picnic sites and two playgrounds.

Show off your figure eights and your triple lutz at Carolina Ice Palace (carolinaicepalace.com).

Public skating hours are available daily.

Fashion + Shopping From shoes to sunglasses and from jeans to jewelry, Tanger Outlets in North Charleston is the best place to grab some great deals on designer items. Dozens of name brand retailers offer incredible products at deals that won’t bust the bank while leaving enough left over for you to treat yourself to a new sweater or pair of athletic shoes.

Northwoods Mall has more than 100 stores and restaurants and is conveniently located off Interstate 26 and surrounded by several other shopping centers.

For a truly local experience, head to North Charleston’s historic district, the Olde Village. It’s lined with small family owned businesses and shops, including Park Pets with food, treats and toys for your favorite furry friend, and Roadside Blooms with a unique mix of plants, bouquets, handmade jewelry and candles.

Food + Drink Park Circle’s Commonhouse Aleworks has revived that old town hall feel where people gather to relax, talk and share a laugh over a beer. Have a pint of Park Circle Pale Ale, the Broad Path Brown ale or one of the other beers on tap. Holy City Brewing (holycitybrewing.com) on Dorchester Road has been brewing beer in North Charleston for years.

Looking for a great place to grab dinner? Look no further than Park Circle. LoLA is a blend of Lowcountry cuisine and Louisiana seafood (think gumbo or shrimp creole). You’ll never think about the pizza the same way after dining at EVO Pizzeria for wood-fired pizzas. Head to Lotus for Vietnamese cuisine in a chic atmosphere.

Events North Charleston’s Riverfront Park has become a go-to location for outdoor concerts, festivals and charitable events. Hot ticket items include the High Water Festival on April 13-14 featuring more than a dozen more musical performers.

Widespread Panic also will play Riverfront Park during the Trondossa Music & Arts Festival on April 27-28. This picturesque waterfront venue is also home to the Charleston Beer Fest on May 18 and the Charleston Animal Society’s Chili Cook-Off in November.

Culture Celebrate North Charleston’s vibrant arts and culture scene at the North Charleston Arts Fest (northcharlestonartsfest.com) in early May. This annual celebration boosts national, regional and local artists and performers in dance, music, theatre, visual arts, media arts and literature.

Performances and exhibits are affordable and accessible at locations all around the area.

For even more information all you can see and do in North Charleston, head to visitnorthcharleston.com. Sign up for email alerts, view the calendar of events and plan your visit.

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