Discover the Charm of Charleston, South Carolina
Explore Charleston, South Carolina - a historic gem with antebellum architecture, vibrant culture, and exquisite Lowcountry cuisine.
Charleston, South Carolina, is a vibrant city brimming with rich history, stunning architecture, and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its cobblestone streets and antebellum charm, Charleston offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination for tourists. Explore the historic French Quarter, indulge in exquisite Lowcountry cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant arts scene. With its picturesque waterfront and lush gardens, Charleston promises an unforgettable getaway.
A brief summary to Charleston, South Carolina
- Charleston, French Quarter, South Carolina, 29401, US
Local tips
- Visit the historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Don't miss a sunset walk along the Battery for stunning views of the harbor.
- Try local restaurants for authentic Lowcountry dishes, and make reservations during peak seasons.
- Explore the city by foot or take a guided carriage tour to fully appreciate the architecture and history.
- Check local events during your visit, as Charleston hosts a range of festivals and cultural activities year-round.
Getting There
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Bus
To reach Charleston from North Charleston via public transit, start by locating the nearest bus stop in North Charleston. You can take the CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority) bus number 10 (Crosstown) or 11 (Dorchester Road). Make sure to check the bus schedule for the exact times and frequency. Board the bus heading towards the downtown Charleston area. The ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at the stop near the Charleston Visitor Center, you can walk to the French Quarter, which will take about 10 minutes.
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Train
For a scenic ride, consider taking Amtrak from North Charleston to Charleston. Start at the North Charleston Amtrak station, which is located at 4565 Gaynor Ave. Check the Amtrak schedule for train times. The journey to Charleston will take around 20 minutes. Once you arrive at the Charleston Amtrak station, you can walk or take a local bus to reach the historic downtown area.
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Bicycle
If you're up for a bike ride, rent a bicycle from a local shop in North Charleston. Head towards the North Charleston Riverfront Park, then follow the bike paths that connect to the West Ashley Greenway. This route will lead you towards downtown Charleston. The ride is approximately 6 miles and will take about 30-40 minutes, depending on your pace. Upon reaching downtown, you can explore the historic sites on foot.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and the weather is nice, you can walk from North Charleston to Charleston. Start at the North Charleston Coliseum and head south on Montague Avenue, then continue on to Rivers Avenue. This route is a bit longer, approximately 10 miles, so be prepared for a 2-3 hour walk. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated. Once you reach downtown Charleston, enjoy exploring the historic sites.
Discover more about Charleston, South Carolina
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Broad St
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Discover the charm of Broad Street in Charleston, SC, where history, culture, and culinary delights converge in a picturesque setting.
Walk Charleston History
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Explore Charleston's rich history with Walk Charleston History - an immersive journey through time in the heart of South Carolina.
Constitutional Convention Of 1868 Historical Marker
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Experience the historical significance of the Constitutional Convention of 1868 in Charleston, SC, a landmark of resilience and transformation in American history.
South Carolina Society Hall
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Experience the rich heritage and stunning architecture of South Carolina Society Hall, a must-visit historical landmark in charming Charleston.
Hibernian Hall
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Discover the historical charm and cultural vibrancy of Hibernian Hall in Charleston, South Carolina, a must-see for every traveler.
Charleston History Walk
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Explore Charleston's rich heritage on a guided history walk through its iconic streets and historic landmarks.
Millers All Day
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Experience the best of Southern breakfast and brunch at Millers All Day, a culinary gem in the heart of Charleston, SC.
Edward Rutledge House
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Explore the Edward Rutledge House, a historical landmark in Charleston showcasing the life of a Declaration signer amidst stunning Georgian architecture.
Robert Brewton House
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Discover the historic Robert Brewton House, a stunning landmark showcasing Charleston's architectural beauty and rich heritage in the heart of the city.
Dubose Heyward House
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Discover the Dubose Heyward House, a historic landmark in Charleston, reflecting the city's rich literary heritage and architectural beauty.
Colonel John Stuart House
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Explore the Colonel John Stuart House, a stunning historical landmark in Charleston, SC, and experience the charm of Southern architecture and rich history.
French Quarter District
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Explore Charleston's French Quarter District, a historical landmark adorned with stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and captivating stories.
Sword Gate House
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Explore Sword Gate House in Charleston, SC: a captivating historical landmark filled with rich stories and architectural beauty.
E Bay St
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Explore the historic E Bay Street in Charleston, SC, where charming boutiques, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture await every traveler.
Charleston Sole Walking Tours
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Explore Charleston's rich history and stunning architecture with Charleston Sole Walking Tours, offering unforgettable guided experiences in this charming Southern city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Saint Michael's Church
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Explore Saint Michael's Church, an iconic Anglican landmark in Charleston, SC, known for its stunning architecture and rich historical significance.
Wanderlust in Charleston
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Discover the charm of Charleston at Wanderlust in Charleston, where history, art, and Southern hospitality create an unforgettable experience.
Charleston City Hall
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Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Charleston City Hall, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Charleston's French Quarter.
Burial site of Charles C. Pinckney, Major General United States of America & signer of the United States Constitution
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Explore the historic burial site of Major General Charles C. Pinckney in Charleston, a key figure in U.S. history and signer of the Constitution.
Washington Square
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Experience the beauty and history of Washington Square, a serene park in Charleston's French Quarter filled with lush landscapes and historic monuments.
South Carolina Historical Society
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Uncover the fascinating history of South Carolina at the South Carolina Historical Society, an educational gem in the heart of Charleston's French Quarter.
St. Michael's Alley
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Explore the serene beauty of St. Michael's Alley in Charleston, SC, a picturesque escape showcasing historic architecture and charming gardens.
Heyward-Washington House
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Discover the elegance and history of Charleston at the Heyward-Washington House, a beautifully preserved landmark showcasing colonial American life.
Dock Street Theatre
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Experience the rich cultural heritage of Charleston at the historic Dock Street Theatre, the first theater in the United States, offering captivating performances.
The Pink House Gallery
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Explore The Pink House Gallery in Charleston, where local art comes alive in a charming historic setting, reflecting the city's vibrant artistic spirit.
Gibbes Museum of Art
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Discover the elegance of Southern art at the historic Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston, SC, showcasing diverse collections from past to present.
Lowcountry History Strolls
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Discover Charleston's fascinating history with personalized tours from Lowcountry History Strolls, where every step tells a story.
Tour Charleston, LLC
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Discover Charleston's rich history and captivating architecture with expert-guided tours from Tour Charleston, LLC, your premier tour agency.
Buxton Books
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Discover Charleston's literary charm at Buxton Books, where readers find their next great read and enjoy engaging community events.
French Huguenot Church
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Explore the enchanting French Huguenot Church in Charleston, a stunning example of Gothic architecture rich in history and tranquility.
Essential places to dine
Gaulart & Maliclet Fast and French Inc.
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Savor authentic French cuisine in Charleston's historic setting at Gaulart & Maliclet Fast and French Inc., where charm meets culinary excellence.
Iron Rose
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Discover Iron Rose: where Southern tradition meets modern cuisine in the heart of Charleston.
Husk
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Experience authentic Southern flavors at Husk Restaurant in Charleston - where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine.
Poogan's Porch
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Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Poogan's Porch in Charleston - where tradition meets flavor in a charming Victorian setting.
Eli's Table
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Discover Eli's Table in Charleston: where fine dining meets Southern charm with locally sourced ingredients and exquisite flavors.
82 Queen
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Experience authentic Southern cuisine at 82 Queen in Charleston – where elegance meets flavor in every bite.
The Establishment
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Discover Charleston's culinary treasure at The Establishment: where fresh seafood meets innovative American cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Toast! All Day
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Experience Southern hospitality at Toast! All Day in Charleston - where breakfast meets brunch with a delightful twist.
Brasserie La Banque
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Experience the charm of French cuisine at Brasserie La Banque in Charleston - where elegance meets culinary artistry.
167 Raw Oyster Bar
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Discover Charleston's culinary gem at 167 Raw Oyster Bar – savor fresh oysters and exquisite seafood dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Revival
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Discover Revival in Charleston - where fine dining meets authentic Southern flavors in an elegant setting.
Magnolias
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Experience Southern sophistication at Magnolias – where classic American cuisine meets fine dining in the heart of Charleston.
The Rooftop at the Vendue
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Discover breathtaking views and delightful American cuisine at The Rooftop at the Vendue in historic Charleston.
Peninsula Grill
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Discover culinary excellence at Peninsula Grill in Charleston - where Southern charm meets fine dining sophistication.
Gingerline
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Southern cuisine at Gingerline, a must-visit restaurant and bar in Charleston's charming French Quarter.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
julep
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Discover unique treasures at Julep, a boutique in Charleston's French Quarter showcasing local artistry and Southern flair.
Over The Moon
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Discover unique fashion treasures at Over The Moon, a charming boutique in Charleston offering stylish clothing that embodies Southern charm.
Grit & Grace Studio
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Experience the charm of Charleston at Grit & Grace Studio, a boutique offering unique handcrafted treasures and local artistry.
E. Blackhurst
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Explore E. Blackhurst in Charleston, a boutique offering a curated selection of clothing and gifts that embody Southern charm and elegance.
Noddy Charleston
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Discover unique gifts and home goods at Noddy Charleston, where local charm meets thoughtful craftsmanship in the heart of South Carolina.
Mildred Newberry
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Discover unique handcrafted gifts and fashion accessories at Mildred Newberry, a charming boutique in the heart of Charleston's South of Broad neighborhood.
Madison-Mathews
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Explore Madison-Mathews, a stylish women's clothing store in Charleston offering curated fashion and local artisan accessories.
Vieuxtemps
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Explore Vieuxtemps, a charming gift shop in Charleston offering unique local crafts and treasures for every visitor.
Boysterous Couture
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Discover Charleston's premier clothing store, Boysterous Couture, where modern elegance meets timeless fashion in a chic shopping experience.
843 Shop
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Discover unique gifts and local crafts at 843 Shop in Charleston, capturing the essence of Southern charm and artistry.
Uashmama
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Explore Uashmama, Charleston's boutique haven for unique gifts, fashion accessories, and home goods that capture the essence of Southern charm.
Joan Crosby Shop
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Explore the charming Joan Crosby Shop in Charleston for unique women's clothing that blends southern elegance with modern trends.
Souchi
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Explore Souchi, a boutique in Charleston offering unique, handcrafted apparel and accessories, perfect for a taste of Southern elegance.
Needlepoint.Com Charleston
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Explore the vibrant world of needlework at Needlepoint.Com Charleston, where creativity meets tradition in a charming shop filled with inspiration.
Best Gift Idea Ever
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Explore Best Gift Idea Ever in Charleston: a treasure trove of local art, custom apparel, and unique souvenirs that embody the spirit of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blind Tiger Pub
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Discover the historic charm of Blind Tiger Pub in Charleston, where craft drinks meet Southern-inspired cuisine in a lively setting.
Bin 152
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Discover the perfect blend of fine wines and gourmet cuisine at Bin 152, a must-visit wine bar and restaurant in Charleston.
Bar Vauté
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Discover the vibrant allure of Bar Vauté, a French lounge in Charleston offering exquisite wines and delightful dishes for an unforgettable experience.
Tommy Condon's Irish Pub & Restaurant
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Discover the heart of Ireland in Charleston with delicious food, live music, and a pub atmosphere at Tommy Condon's Irish Pub & Restaurant.
The Bar at The Spectator
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Experience sophisticated cocktails and intimate ambiance at The Bar at The Spectator in Charleston's historic French Quarter.
The Gin Joint
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Experience the art of mixology at The Gin Joint, Charleston's premier cocktail bar known for innovative drinks and a cozy ambiance.
The Griffon
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Discover The Griffon, an iconic American pub in Charleston's French Quarter, known for its hearty dishes, craft beers, and vibrant atmosphere.
The Palmetto Lobby Bar
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Experience the charm of Charleston at The Palmetto Lobby Bar, where exceptional drinks meet Southern hospitality in a stylish setting.
Henry's On The Market
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Experience the vibrant flavors and lively nightlife at Henry's On The Market, a premier restaurant and bar in Charleston, South Carolina.
Mac's Place
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Discover Mac's Place, a lively Irish pub in Charleston, offering delicious cuisine, craft beers, and a vibrant atmosphere for sports fans and food lovers.
Pavilion Bar
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Experience the charm of Pavilion Bar in Charleston, where stunning views and creative cocktails create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.
Doar Bros.
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Experience innovative cocktails and delightful small plates at Doar Bros. in Charleston, a culinary gem blending local flavors with vibrant nightlife.
Little Palm
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Experience the best of Southern cuisine and craft cocktails at Little Palm, Charleston's charming restaurant and bar.
Scotty Doesn't Know Speakeasy
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Uncover the charm of Scotty Doesn't Know Speakeasy, a hidden gem in Charleston offering crafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.
Big John's Tavern
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Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine at Big John's Tavern, a beloved spot in Charleston's historic Ansonborough district.