Charleston is a beautiful town located along the South Carolina coastline. The city is situated on Charleston Harbor, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean that played an important role in Charleston’s establishment as a major port town several centuries ago. Today, Charleston’s rich history is evident in its antebellum architecture, quaint cobblestone roads, and military ruins. If you’re looking for the perfect weekend destination that combines arts, culture, and natural beauty, Charleston is a great option.
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How do I get to Charleston?
One of the easiest ways to get to Charleston is by plane, thanks to Charleston International Airport. This airport is conveniently located less than 15 miles outside of the city and is a great option for out-of-town visitors. Another option is to take Amtrak from a number of major cities, such as Washington D.C. or Orlando, Florida.
Once you’ve made it to Charleston, there are a few options for getting around the city itself. Charleston is fairly walkable which is a great option if you want to save money and plan ahead by bringing comfortable walking shoes. During the summer when humidity and heat are at an all-time high, it may be more comfortable to utilize the local bus or shuttle system. A rental car may be ideal for some visitors, but isn’t necessary to enjoy a weekend in Charleston.
Tip! If you choose to rent a car, check out the Discover Cars Search Engine to find the very best deals in Charleston!
When is the best time to visit Charleston?
Spring or fall are the best times of year to visit Charleston. Summers in Charleston are often characterized by high temperatures and extreme humidity which can make your visit very uncomfortable. Alternatively, winter isn’t the best time to visit because you’re more likely to experience rain and colder temperatures.
Spring and fall are perfect if you want mild, comfortable weather and fewer crowds. March is an especially great time to visit to experience the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, which is considered one of the best of its kind in the country.
If outdoor festivals and events are particularly important to you, you may want to consider braving the heat and visiting over the summer. Charleston hosts many music, art, and food festivals throughout the warmer months that draw major crowds of both locals and tourists alike.
Where should I stay in Charleston?
Charleston has a number of unique neighborhoods that offer a wide variety of accommodations to cater to all kinds of visitors.
If it’s your first time visiting the city, Downtown Charleston is an excellent area to stay in. Downtown Charleston offers the perfect mix of history and modern amenities, and the streets are full of shopping, dining, and activity options. There are also several parks and historical sites for visitors seeking a more outdoorsy or laid-back vacation.
Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston is a great option for those seeking simple, comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price. If you’re looking to splurge a bit more, The Dewberry is an excellent boutique hotel in a great location.
Another great area of Charleston to consider staying in is the Historic District. The Historic District is incredibly quaint and charming, full of boutiques and cafes. The Historic District is also home to Charleston City Market, one of the most popular destinations in the city. Holiday Inn Charleston Historic Downtown is a great budget-friendly hotel in the area, while Indigo Inn is perfect for those who want to enjoy some historic accommodations without breaking the bank.
Sample 3-Day Charleston Itinerary
Day 1 in Charleston:
Morning
Start your Charleston vacation with a visit to one of the most famous sights in the city: Rainbow Row. Rainbow Row is a street lined with 13 historic homes painted in a variety of pastel shades ranging from pink and purple to blue and green. Morning is a great time to visit Rainbow Row before the street becomes overrun with crowds that tend to gather later in the day. Rainbow Row is a really fun destination and the picture-perfect houses serve as an excellent backdrop for photos. The best part about visiting Rainbow Row is it’s completely free! Afterward, take a short walk over to Harken Cafe for coffee or tea and some delicious baked goods.
Afternoon
A great way to experience Charleston’s history firsthand is by paying a visit to Fort Sumter. Located on an island in the Charleston Harbor, Fort Sumter was built in the 1800s to defend the port city. Now a National Historical Park, Fort Sumter can only be accessed by boat, making it a fun afternoon excursion. During the ferry ride, you’ll get great views of the Charleston skyline and you may even be able to spot dolphins in the harbor! During your visit to the fort, you’ll be able to explore the ruins and learn about the site’s important role in the Civil War.
Evening
Wrap up your first night in Charleston by enjoying some of the delicious food options that the city has to offer. Charleston is home to many incredible restaurants and though the city is probably most well-known for its Southern fare, there are a wide variety of options available for visitors with all manner of dietary preferences and needs.
To sample local delicacies such as oysters and shrimp and grits, Hyman’s Seafood is a must-visit, and often considered one of the best seafood restaurants in the Southeast. Barbecue lovers should check out Lewis Barbecue, which serves their smoked meats Texas-style. Poogan’s Porch is another well-known restaurant in Charleston that features classic Southern dishes in a historic home.
Day 2 in Charleston:
Morning
A stroll through Battery & White Point Gardens is the perfect way to kick off day two of your Charleston trip. The gardens are located in Charleston’s Historic District and have been used as a public gathering space since the early 1800s. Battery & White Point Gardens have a fascinating history, and the site was once used to publicly hang pirates such as Stede Bonnet, also known as the “Gentleman Pirate”. The gardens themselves are beautiful and also offer great views of the harbor.
Afternoon
If you’re looking to do some shopping, Charleston City Market is a great place to explore for the afternoon. The market has been in operation for over 200 years, making it an incredibly historic and popular destination in Charleston. You’ll find all kinds of vendors selling everything from art and jewelry to clothes and souvenirs. There’s really something for everyone to enjoy at Charleston City Market, and you could spend hours exploring the market.
Evening
A great way to spend an evening in Charleston is by catching a show at Dock Street Theatre. This historic theater can be found in Charleston’s French Quarter, a picturesque neighborhood. Dock Street Theatre hosts a number of performances throughout the year that are put on by Charleston Stage. In the past, the local company has put on musicals, plays, and even puppet shows at Dock Street Theatre! If you’re a lover of the arts or a history buff, you’ll love the experience of enjoying a show in such a historic setting.
Day 3 in Charleston:
Morning
Charleston is home to a number of prominent plantations, including Boone Hall. Located just about a 30-minute drive from Charleston in the city of Mount Pleasant, Boone Hall is one of the most well-known plantations in not just the state, but the whole country. Boone Hall was established in the late 1600s and has a fascinating and rich history. Taking a tour of the grounds will teach you a great deal about Boone Hall’s historical significance, and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time as you explore the home and gardens. Boone Hall also pays tribute to the Gullah culture that was adopted by many African slaves who lived and work on plantations by hosting live presentations by direct descendants of these people.
Afternoon
If you didn’t get your fill of shopping the day before at Charleston City Market, be sure to explore the shops along King Street. King Street, located in the Historic District, is known for being one of the best shopping areas in all of Charleston. Along the street, you’ll find all kinds of clothing boutiques, art galleries, and antique stores. There are also a lot of delicious cafes and restaurants on King Street, so you can really take your time exploring the area.
Not into more shopping? Explore the city with a fun and competitive Scavenger Hunt!
Evening
With such a storied past, it’s no surprise Charleston is considered a hotspot of paranormal activity. End your trip to Charleston on a spooky note by embarking on a nighttime ghost tour throughout the city. There are tons of different ghost tours that will take you through some iconic Charleston landmarks, including USS Yorktown and Magnolia Cemetery. These tours are not only fun and exciting, but they’re also incredibly educational, highlighting some of the most significant historical events that have defined Charleston over the last few centuries.
Other things to do in Charleston:
- Take in the incredible views at Waterfront Park (free)
- Try surfing at Folly Beach (the beach is free to visit, prices vary for surfing rentals and/or lessons)
- Marvel at the massive Angel Oak (free)
- Visit the impressive Middleton Place ($29 for adults 14 and up, $15 for students 14 and up with student ID, $10 for children 6-13, free for children 5 and under)
Other tips to know before visiting Charleston:
One of the best souvenirs to remember your time in Charleston is a sweetgrass basket. Throughout the city, it’s common to find vendors selling sweetgrass baskets. Basket-weaving was brought to the area by African slaves, and the tradition has been carried on for hundreds of years. These baskets are carefully-crafted and a beautiful reflection of Charleston’s rich and varied culture.
3-day Charleston Weekend Trip Itinerary Recap:
- Day 1: Rainbow Row, Fort Sumter, Food Tour/Tastings
- Day 2: Battery and White Point Gardens, Charleston City Market, Dock Street Theater
- Day 3: Boone Hall, King Street, Ghost Tour
Keep Reading::: Extend your Southeast weekend with this waterfall road trip!
One Weekend In Charleston Isn’t Enough
As you can see, there’s SO much to do in Charleston that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Charleston itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Charleston!
What else would you add to this “One Weekend in Charleston” Itinerary?
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