3 Days in Charleston, SC

Begin with breakfast at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit for a taste of local favorites. Take a guided walking tour of the Charleston Historic District, admiring beautifully preserved streets and iconic spots such as Rainbow Row, White Point Garden and The Battery. Walk through Philadelphia Alley, keeping an eye out for curious happenings—locals love sharing ghost stories about this hidden lane. Visit Chubby Fish for lunch, stroll along King Street for unique shopping and people-watching, then detour to the Charleston City Market to browse artisanal goods and local crafts. Visit Joe Riley Waterfront Park and see the famous Pineapple Fountain, a beloved Charleston landmark. Dine at Sorelle, one of Charleston’s newest favorites for Southern-Italian creations using local ingredients or try Chez Nous (for a romantic date-night vibe with a daily changing menu). Relax with craft cocktails at The Spectator Hotel Bar, or try rooftop views at Citrus Club for a vibrant nightcap.

Start your day with brunch at Park and Grove, celebrated for its creative menu and fresh pastries. Venture out to Boone Hall Plantation or Middleton Place: tour the oak-lined drive, historic house, and Gullah culture presentation—an immersive look at Charleston’s complex heritage. Take a harbor tour or water taxi, offering views of Fort Sumter and the Ravenel Bridge. Head to Leon’s Oyster Shop lunch or Basic Kitchen for fresh, healthy fare with southern flair. Have tea at Charleston Tea House, slightly out of town. Stroll through the French Quarter, visit local shops and chat with artisans along King Street or Meeting Street. Book a table at Hall’s Chophouse for prime steaks and a lively atmosphere or try Church & Union for a contemporary downtown scene. After dinner, experience Upper King Street’s nightlife—live music at Music Farm, cocktail lounges, and rooftop bars for a festive night.

Start the day with breakfast at Miller’s All Day or a quick stroll for coffee and pastries in the Ansonborough district. Explore the Gibbes Museum of Art (if you didn’t make it earlier) or The Charleston Museum for a dose of history and fine art. Head to Folly Beach for surfer vibes, broad sands, and sunset views at Morris Island Lighthouse; or opt for family-friendly Isle of Palms with playgrounds and county park facilities. Break for a casual lunch at a local seafood shack or beach café or cross over to Sullivan’s Island and have lunch at The Obstinate Daughter, known for creative pastas and coastal ambiance (don’t miss gelato at Beardcat’s downstairs afterward). Enjoy dinner at 167 Raw Oyster Bar downtown or head to fabulous Magnolias, offering elevated Lowcountry favorites in a historic setting—be sure to appreciate the original details of the ceiling and floor. Wind down with a sunset stroll along the waterfront.