leisure and travel charleston

Visitor Guide

Book your vacation, the official charleston visitor guide – spring 2023.

Welcome to the Official Charleston Visitor Guide for Spring 2023! This comprehensive guide showcases the best of Charleston and is designed to help you make the most of your trip. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find plenty of things to see and do in this charming city, which is steeped in history and Southern hospitality. From historic landmarks and breathtaking beaches to world-class restaurants and charming boutiques, Charleston has something for everyone. So get ready to explore and let this guide be your companion on your journey. We hope you have an unforgettable Charleston experience!

Charleston's nonstop flight list is growing.  Check if your airport is on the list.

Request a mail-in Visitor Guide  via CharlestonCVB.com

Donna Kelce shared her Mother’s Day wish list – and we want everything

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Travel + Leisure reveals World's Best Awards, and the top-ranked U.S. city is...

An old favorite is once again the top travel destination among U.S. cities.

With travel increasing as more Americans get vaccinated against Covid-19, Travel + Leisure released its 26th annual World's Best Awards readers' survey on Wednesday, highlighting the top destinations, hotels, cruise lines, airlines and more.

This year's survey also includes the top national parks, as Americans have flocked to the outdoors and places closer to home as a respite during the pandemic.

A southern city that has earned Travel + Leisure Hall of Fame status once again leads the way as the favorite U.S. city to visit for the magazine's readers.

Best U.S. Cities

1. Charleston, South Carolina

A regular at No. 1, the coastal city continues to be a magnet for travelers with its waterfront restaurants, historic downtown and scenic beaches. Travel + Leisure has designated it a Hall of Fame destination because it has been among the most popular for at least 10 consecutive years.

If you plan to visit, the John Rutledge House Inn jumped to the top spot from No. 2 as the best hotel in the city, according to the survey. The hotel right in the heart of Charleston dates back to 1763 and was once home to John Rutledge, the second Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court and the first governor in South Carolina's history.

South Carolina also is home to Hilton Head Island, which was voted the No. 1 island in the U.S. in the survey.

2. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Another Hall of Fame destination regularly in the top five among Travel + Leisure readers, the state capital is packed with historic sites as well as Pecos National Historical Park and the Georgia O'Keefe Museum. The city off the famed Route 66 has been among the top U.S. destinations for 10-plus years.

The city also is home to the Inn of the Five Graces, which was voted the No. 2 hotel in the entire country in the readers' survey.

3. Savannah, Georgia.

Yet another perennial favorite, Savannah is also a Hall of Fame destination that has been on the list for at least a decade straight.

The charming southern city is filled with historic architecture, the famed Spanish moss, a lively downtown and some spooky ghost stories that give it a Southern gothic feel. It also hosts a lively St. Patrick's Day celebration every year.

Rest of the top 10:

4. New Orleans

5. New York City

6. San Antonio

8. Bend, Oregon

9. Williamsburg, Virginia

10. Honolulu

The pandemic has confined most travel by Americans to inside the continental U.S., where the Viceroy Chicago was voted the top hotel and JetBlue as the top domestic airline.

In the new national park category, the iconic Yellowstone National Park, which is in parts of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, took the top spot.

"The 2021 standouts are as far-flung as ever, and suggest a renewed appreciation for places that offer unparalleled natural beauty and, in many places, fewer crowds," Travel + Leisure editor in chief Jacqui Gifford said in a news release. "Forced to think on their feet, the properties that made the cut in 2021 all found innovative ways to deliver exceptional hospitality to their guests. Our readers delighted in taking trips closer to home, a fact we’ve recognized with several new domestic resort lists to provide even more trip inspiration. With a continued interest in the great outdoors, we also asked readers to vote on their favorite U.S. national park.

"This year’s results are a testament to the travel industry’s resilience under enormous strain. Nearly two years into the pandemic, there is still much we don’t know about COVID-19. But we do know that some parts of the world have struggled more than others. I’m hopeful that the World’s Best Awards will continue to serve as inspiration to explore the world, and in doing so, support those places and companies that rely on tourism to thrive."

As far as the top cities in the world, Mexico's San Miguel de Allende took the No. 1 spot, followed by Udaipur in Indian and Istanbul, Turkey. San Miguel de Allende ascended to the No. 1 destination after finishing No. 2 behind Oaxaca, Mexico, last year.

The top two island destinations in the world, Milos and Folegandros, are both in Greece. You can see the full list of all the winners here .

Scott Stump is a trending reporter and the writer of the daily newsletter This is TODAY (which you should subscribe to here! ) that brings the day's news, health tips, parenting stories, recipes and a daily delight right to your inbox. He has been a regular contributor for TODAY.com since 2011, producing features and news for pop culture, parents, politics, health, style, food and pretty much everything else. 

The Food & Wine Classic Is Coming to Charleston — and This Time, Travel + Leisure Is Joining

Charleston just got tastier.

Food & Wine , Southern Living , and Travel + Leisure are coming together for the first-ever Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, South Carolina from Sept. 27 - 29, 2024. 

For four decades, Food & Wine has hosted its famed event in Aspen, bringing together the best in the culinary biz. And now, it's bringing its food-filled magic to Charleston with the bonus of the lifestyle experts at T+L and Southern Living . 

"I am excited to be partnering with my colleagues at Southern Living and Travel + Leisure to build on the storied legacy of the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen and introduce this singular experience in a new destination," Hunter Lewis, the editor-in-chief at Food & Wine , shared in a statement. "No other place shares a blend of hospitality, foodways, culture, architecture, and history like the Holy City, and I can't wait to see this dynamic new event come to life there next fall. A huge thank you to Charleston for welcoming us in a big way."

The weekend-long festival will celebrate the best the city has to offer and will feature world-renowned chefs, just like in Aspen, alongside homegrown talent. (Yes, there will be both food and wine tastings, seminars, and demonstrations galore.) And, in Charleston , guests can head out on one-of-a-kind local tours and excursions to get to know the city a little deeper. 

"I am thrilled and honored that Charleston has been selected as the new Food & Wine Classic host community. Our collaboration with Food & Wine , Southern Living , and Travel + Leisure is a testament to our community's rich culinary tapestry and vibrant hospitality," Helen Hill, the CEO of Explore Charleston, the presenting sponsor of the event, said in a statement. "This unique event will further elevate the Charleston area as America's premier food and beverage destination. I am immensely proud of what our community offers, and I eagerly await the unparalleled experience this event will bring to all who attend."

Tickets for the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston will go on sale this spring, so keep this story bookmarked for future reference. The lineup of chefs and special guests is evolving, but without a doubt, you can expect a whole lot of food and culture all-stars to be descending on the southern city in 2024.

Stay tuned at foodandwineclassicincharleston.com for more information.

For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

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Charleston travel blog — the fullest charleston sc travel guide for a great trip to charleston city for first-timers.

The beautiful port city of Charleston is South Carolina state’s second largest city and has been rated as America’s No. 1 city for five consecutive years by Southern Living magazine and once you visit here, you will understand at why is that. According to 2018 census data, this city has a population of about 140.000 people. This picturesque city is not only beautiful, gentle, peaceful but also full of fun and lots of things to do from shopping, music, dining to history, culture, … So, what to do and how to visit Charleston? Let’s check out our Charleston travel blog (Charleston SC blog, Charleston SC travel blog, Charleston blog) with the fullest Charleston travel guide (Charleston SC guide, Charleston SC travel guide) to clear the answer!

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You can immerse yourself in the history and majestic beauty of the port city of Charleston. It attracts visitors from all over the world with spectacular views of the unique architectural church, charming cobblestone streets at Charleston Historic District. Moreover, if you love nature, the forests will give you a great sense of relaxation.

Only when you set foot in Charleston and feel with all your heart about a green, clean, beautiful, charming and peaceful city, you can unsderstand the reason why this city is so loved. From the skillfully manicured gardens at Middleton Place to the unbelievably beautiful views of Battery Quarter or French Quarter, or of Waterfront Park or a spooky excursion at night that leaves a lasting impression in memories of the people who came here.

Charleston travel guide (Charleston sc guide): Overview of charleston

Americans have passed on a joke: “10 years old wants to live in Palm Springs, 20 years old moves to Las Vegas, 30 years old must go to Chicago, 40 years old resides in New York, 50 years old thinks about Seattle, and over 60 years old ? – Charleston is the perfect choice.”

Charleston is one of the major cities in the United States with an outstanding economy. Moreover, Charleston is loved by the extremely developed tourism industry. With a long history and rich culture, it has become a solid foundation to help the city rise to the top of America. Every year, many tourists from all over the world come here to visit and relax.

Referring to developed cities, we often think of high-rise building or busy traffic system. However, coming to Charleston, you will be able to see a rare sight in history. The beauty of Charleston is bold classic with colorful houses lined up close together. In addition, the city also looks peaceful with no traffic congestion or air pollution. Because of this specialness that has brought a romantic Charleston that makes everyone want to live here.

Peaceful but not boring. Charleston city has a lot of food shops, restaurants serving a variety of Asian and European dishes, cafes, breweries, fresh fruit and vegetable markets … all of which are satisfied for needs of the people and tourists coming here.

Charleston SC guide: When to visit?

Charleston is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with mild, windy winters and oppressive, hot summers. Winter is not too cold with snow but very little, the average temperature of the year typically varies from 43°F to 89°F (6 – 33 degrees Celsius). Summer is quite cool compared to other states, average temperature is only about 30 degrees Celsius. However, summer is a time of frequent thunderstorms, so there will be many inconveniences. Spring and autumn are considered the best time to visit Charleston.

July is the hottest month of the year with an average temperature of about 32 – 33 degrees Celsius. January is the coldest month with an average temperature of 6 degrees Celsius. Each season in Charleston has its own characteristic featuring via natural scenery and cultural and culinary activities. So, you can visit Charleston all year round.

Charleston is not as dull as many people think. In winter, you can try delicious grilled scallops are served with fine wine. In spring, jasmine and magnolia blossom are in full bloom, when families often have a party in the garden, watching the flowers, enjoying wine and singing happily. The summer has the international art program Spoleto, while the autumn marks with the music festival.

Flower Festival

The Charleston Flower Festival in March every year is one of the most exciting spring events in America. This is the time when hundreds of flowers bloom, creating impressive scenes. Participating in the festival, visitors will admire the beauty of flowers such as azaleas, camellia, rose, jasmine, … Together with the chilly atmosphere and romantic scenery of spring, visitors will be experienced a wonderful land of America.

Charleston SC travel guide: How to get to Charleston?

From Vietnam, you can fly to Charleston with airlines such as Air China (Beijing and New York), Japan Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, ANA (Seoul – Atlanta), EVA Air and China Airlines (Taipei and New York) … Among them, United Airlines is the largest airline in the United States and is the most chosen by many people to book tickets, depending on each airline and the time that the fare will be different. The airfare to Charleston ranges from $516 to $602 depending on different ticket class.

Charleston blog: Transportation in Charleston

The main means of transportation in Charleston are bicycle, bus and taxi. To traveling to more distant locations you can choose the subway. Calling a car as well as getting around the city is very easy so you don’t need to worry. Besides, the traffic system is strict, well-planned, so there is no traffic jam. The tourist streets of the city are always clear and airy. However, if you use public transportation such as buses or subway, or water taxi but you have to walk to the attractions.

In addition, Uber, Lyft services are also very popular. This is a good way to traveling around the city and to get nearby places.

Charleston SC travel guide: Best places to visit and top things to do

Magnolia plantation and gardens.

The most special garden is The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Only about 20 miles from downtown Charleston, this place becomes a picnic spot for locals. The Magnolia was founded in 1676, opened to visitors in 1870 and is the oldest public garden in America.

You can admiring the gardens – bloom all year round at The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens – and see everything from camellias to azaleas. There is also an old plantation house, giving visitors a clearer picture of life in the 19th century. A tram ride tour will take you through wetlands, forests and marshes, where you can spot out crocodiles, gibbons, herons and turtles. This is the hottest garden in America.

Address: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States Hours: 8:30AM–4:30PM

Fort Sumter National Monument

Fort Sumter National Monument is a civil war fort that has been preserved until now and has become a hot tourist destination. The fortress with its majestic beauty, strong standing in the middle of the sea, creates an impressive scene. Coming here, visitors will hear American historical stories and admire the ancient beauty. At the fortress, there is an American flag and statues of heroes who have sacrificed for the country. To get here you have to buy a boat ticket to reach the fort. Seeing the great wonder lying on the sea will definitely be a great experience in your trip.

Address: South Carolina 29412, United States Opened: 1829 Hours: Open 24 hours

Joe Riley Waterfront Park

One of Charleston’s tourist hot spots is Waterfront Park. The 5-hectare park is located next to the Cooper River, bearing a romantic beauty. Waterfront Park is divided into many different areas, convenient for sightseeing. In the center of the park built a fountain overlooking the river, adding to the romance.

Address: Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 6AM–9PM

South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is also a favorite spot in Charleston. It’s home to more than 10.000 different species that are cared for and preserved. Coming to the aquarium, you will be overwhelmed by the immense space with many species of sea creatures swimming behind the glass. If you travel with your kids, this is a must-visit place.

The South Carolina Aquarium regularly hosts exhibitions, so you can come and see. Not only that, this place also built a large-scale sea turtle care center. After being raised, turtles will be released to a local beach and they will be returned to the ocean.

Address: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Opened: May 19, 2000 Hours: 9AM–5PM

Walking tour

The best way to get a deeper understanding of a new destination is to take a walk around, and the city of Charleston has a tour for the hikers.

The Charleston Strolls – History Tours (Bulldog Tours) are the pieces of the puzzle that make up a fascinating city of Charleston. While walking in the sun, you will have the opportunity to take a closer look at the impressive architecture of this place. And more surprisingly, you will see beautiful alleys hidden behind rows of tall buildings, garden houses, churches and many ancient American places. If you don’t like walking, you can register for a bus tour or a horse cart tour…

Take a stroll through the Charleston City Market

On your first day in Charleston, you should wake up early and head to the city center to drop by Charleston City Market which was established in 1807 – a Charleston traditional market and one of the oldest public markets in the country.

It opens at 9:30 a.m. every day and spans three outdoor stalls, as well as a great hall. You will find all kinds of unique treasures here, from paintings and photographs, to textiles and clothing, to food and wine…

There are also plenty of breakfast options in and around the market, including Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit , located inside the Great Hall, where you can enjoy homemade cookies, and more.

Address: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 9:30AM–6PM/Friday; Saturday: 9:30AM–10:30PM

Bulldog Tour

After you’ve explored the City Market, it’s time to explore the city. And there’s no better way to do that than join a tour called the Bulldog Tour.

Named after the mascot of the city’s famous military university – The Citadel, Bulldog Tours has over 70 years of experience in providing tours for all tastes, whether you’re curious about the history of the city or any other things of the city.

Angel Oak Tree

The short drive to Angel Oak Tree, located on nearby John Island is definitely an experience not to be missed. This is one of the most popular attractions in Charleston. The unique and giant Angel Oak Tree is 1.500 years old oak tree and is believed to be one of the oldest living plants in the country.

Address: 3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455, United States Hours: 9AM–5PM/Sunday: 1–5PM

Explore Charleston on the water and enjoy a meal on the boat

Don’t like the roads? Rest assured, there are many ways to explore the city of Charleston on the water. Get on a boat to watch the sunset and dolphins or a romantic wine tasting cruise in the sunset. And if you like challenge and action, let kayaking off the shores of Shem Creek and you’ll see dolphins and sometimes whales.

Although the city is filled with great places to enjoy a meal, but many travelers enjoy the meal on the boat. SpiritLine Cruises offers a luxurious dining experience on a cruise, including a 2 and a half hour cruise, the meal includes three or four courses that prepared right on board using fresh local ingredients, a full bar, live music and wonderful sunset.

Relax at the beaches

The most interesting and impressive of all is paddling through creeks and swamps while breathing the sea-smelling air. There are great beaches in Charleston like the Isle of Palms, which are for family vacations. Located about 12 miles from the city center of Charleston, this island is nested between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal waterway, offering great views of the ocean as well as engaging experiences such as swimming, walking along the beach, kayaking, boating, … While Folly Beach is more laid-back for young single travelers.

As one of a destination of the city of Charleston that visitors cannot miss is Edisto Beach, an ideal place to hold a picnic and watch the sunset.

Charleston Tea Garden

The Charleston Tea plantation is located about 20 miles to the south of Charleston, South Carolina on the island of Wadmalaw. Owned by the Bigelow Tea Company, the company grows tea and sold under the brand names of American Classic Tea and the Charleston Tea Plantation from the Camellia Sinensis factory.

Address: 6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, United States Hours: 10AM–4PM/Sunday: 12–4PM

Aiken-Rhett House Museum

Aiken – Rhett House was built in 1820 and almost unchanged since 1858 and turned into a museum later. This is the place where visitors can admire and explore ancient architecture, which have been preserved for hundreds of years, one of Charleston’s most stately mansion.

Address: 48 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States Hours: 10AM–5PM

Charleston travel blog: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• French Quarter Inn , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $255/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Belmond Charleston Place , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $329/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Harbourview Inn , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $219/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Andrew Pinckney Inn , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $102/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Town & Country Inn and Suites , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $102/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Charleston SC guide: What and where to eat?

Seafood at Magnolias restaurant

Going to the sea but not eat seafood is a pity. Moreover, the culinary culture in the city of Charleston today is overheating and Magnolias restaurant played a huge role in the city’s culinary renaissance, which has been going on over the past decade. The restaurant Magnolias showed Charleston’s culinary style was influenced by South Carolina’s coast natives, Georgians and British, French, and African immigrants. Try fried chicken and sausage sauce, Charleston crab cake and green tomatoes sautéed with caramelized onion powder.

Address: 185 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 11:30AM–9PM

Street food at Marion Square

Well don’t forget, every Saturday morning, lots of farmers, and food vendors will head to the beautiful Marion Square in Charleston Farmers Market (Address: 329 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States). I love going there early when the stalls are just set up, with the aroma of coffee and culinary flavors spreading in the air.

All farm produce at the market must be grown in South Carolina; except banana! It’s great to wander, sip, and sample local’s favorite dishes like ice blended and jelly on toast. If you are traveling with your family, this market is also very interesting. And there are many stalls all over the place, and local craftsmen sell everything from jewelry to hats.

FIG restaurant

Charleston has also become a gourmet culinary paradise. FIG, one of the city’s most notable restaurants, was named one of America’s best restaurants in 2016 by Eater. The chef of this famous restaurant, Mike Lata, was also nominated the James Beard Award for Chef Excellence this year.

Address: 232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States Hours: 5–10:30PM/Sunday: Closed

King Street

The north of the city also becomes a culinary venue. According to Travel + Leisure, the King Street is also famous for a variety of eateries, venues with fine cocktails and excellent hotels.

Hominy Grill

Going a little further to the north you will find a popular breakfast spot called Hominy Grill. Here you will find dishes with the traditional and signature flavors of Charleston such as tiger prawns, fried chicken and catfish.

Address: 207 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403, United States

Texax BBQ is the famous barbecue dish in Charleston. For a delicious barbecue, the chef has marinated the necessary spices and grilled at high heat. When you eat, you will feel the aroma and richness of the meat. Along with the barbecue is grilled ribs that are also extremely attractive. You will be served with vegetables and sauces to make the meal more perfect and full.

You can try Texas BBQ at Lewis Barbecue (Address: 464 N Nassau St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States/Hours: 11AM-9PM).

Apple pie is a familiar dish on the American dining table. Traveling here you should also enjoy this special cake for a new flavor. Round shape apple pie with eye-catching motifs will attract you at first sight. Plus, the cake has a mild aroma and a sweet taste that melting in your mouth.

Charleston SC travel guide: Shopping

If you come to Charleston and want to shopping, let go to King Street paradise, where there are many prominent fashion stores with all brands in the world. You can find everything you need without having to fly to New York to find.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Charleston you can refer to

• Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride
• Charleston: 90-Minute Historic City Highlights Tour
• Charleston Harbor: Luxury Dinner Cruise
• Charleston: Magnolia Plantation Tour and Transport
• Charleston: 1-Hour Carriage Tour of the Historic District
• Charleston: Historical Walking Tour
• Charleston: Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl
• Charleston: Historical Downtown Tour by Horse-drawn Carriage
• Charleston: Daytime or Sunset Historic Harbor Cruise
• Charleston Harbor: Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise

Above is the fullest Charleston SC travel guide. We hope this guide will help you planning and have a wonderful trip to the coastal city and one of most beloved destinations in the US. Happy traveling!

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Travel + Leisure Readers' 500 Favorite Hotels and Resorts in the World

These properties scored the highest in Travel + Leisure's most recent World's Best Awards survey.

Athul Prasad

Sometimes a hotel is so special that it becomes a destination in its own right. If you’re on the hunt for a property worth planning a trip around, look no further than the T+L 500, our annual list of the hotels and resorts our readers love the most. 

Drawn from the results of the World’s Best Awards survey (voted on by our readers), these 500 top scorers deliver the bucket-list locations, outstanding design, and exceptional service our readers want to return to time and time again. 

The honorees are grouped into eight geographic regions: Africa and the Middle East; Asia; Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific; Canada; the Caribbean; Europe; Mexico, Central America, and South America; and the United States.

Below, we highlight 10 properties that embody all of the spectacular charm and amenities one might look for when planning their next dream vacation. You can read the full T+L 500 list in Travel + Leisure 's May 2024 issue, on newsstands today, or digitally on Apple News+.

Courtesy of Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection

Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection

The name Etéreo , Spanish for “ethereal,” accurately describes this rejuvenating resort on Mexico's Riviera Maya. Known for its elevated restaurants, excellent Sana spa, gorgeous views of the Caribbean Sea, and nearby cenotes , it’s no surprise this property is a family favorite, appealing to multiple generations.

Christian Horan/Courtesy of Montage Los Cabos

Montage Los Cabos

Located on Santa Maria Bay in Los Cabos, Mexico, Montage Los Cabos has 122 guestrooms, suites, and casas, as well as 52 residences. Here, you’ll find fresh Baja-inspired cuisine — and, if your timing is right, the annual grey and humpback whale migration. 

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Kokomo Private Island Fiji

A quick 45-minute flight from Nadi International Airport gets you to Kokomo , a private island resort in Fiji. Unspoiled and wildly luxurious, this secluded escape has some of the best diving and snorkeling around the world’s fourth largest reef. 

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus

With a European address that overlooks Asia, this Four Seasons Hotel holds a unique position along the Bosphorus Strait. After a busy day of shopping in one of Istanbul’s trendiest neighborhoods, the heated outdoor pool is the perfect place to wind down and relax the senses. 

Courtesy of Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas

Six Senses Douro Valley

The restored 19th-century manor in Lamego, Portugal has 71 guest rooms with panoramic views of the Douro river, private balconies, and wooden bridges leading to tranquil, secret gardens. 

Courtesy of Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection

Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection

This top 10 best resort in Europe, according to our 2023 World’s Best Awards, lies in the heart of Santorini’s Imerovigli village. Whether you’re in the infinity pool or in the comfort of your private villa, it’s impossible to miss the bright orange sunset that sets its light over the Aegean Sea. 

Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

Deeply rooted in Hawaiian history, The Ritz-Carlton Maui , which underwent a $100-million renovation last year, centers its design around the location’s culture and maintains the nearby Honokahua Preservation Site (a recognized wahi pana , or sacred site, where about 2,000 Hawaiians were buried between 610 C.E. and 1800 C.E.).

Charissa Fay

Nayara Tented Camp

If you’ve ever been to La Fortuna, Costa Rica, you know it's one of the most magical natural places in the world. At Nayara Tented Camp , not only can you revel in the surrounding biodiversity with highly trained naturalist guides, but after a busy day of sightseeing, you can return to your spacious tent with a private pool fed by the volcano’s mineral hot springs. 

Courtesy of The Little Nell

The Little Nell

Aspen’s only ski-in, ski-out hotel has 92 rooms, a new luxury spa, two restaurants, three bars, extraordinary mountain views and, you guessed it — all things après-ski. 

Courtesy of White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection

White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection

Drive 90 minutes north of Boston to Kennebunkport, Maine, to find the effortlessly cozy and elevated White Barn Inn . Roomy waterfront cottages await with a fireplace, a large living area, and direct access to the heated infinity pool.

Organizing won't magically clear the clutter. Get our FREE guide and discover what will!

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Charleston, SC

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. Read my full disclosure policy here.

I’ve had a decades long love affair with Charleston, South Carolina and it seems like I’m not the only one; it was recently named #1 city in the world by Travel + Leisure! There are many reasons why Charleston is so beloved, one of them being it’s the perfect location for just about any type of trip– girls’ weekend, romantic getaway, or mom/daughter bonding session. I’ve visited the city over half a dozen times and each was magical in it’s own way. However, I knew I couldn’t write an Ultimate Charleston Visitor’s Guide until I’d tackled the Holy City with one specific and highly dubious group: my kids.

Would the walkable city of rooftop bars and bourbon tasting be as incredible when you have kids along for the ride? Turns out that YES, they loved it– and when the kids are happy, everyone’s happy. Watching them instantly fall in love with Charleston was one of my favorite things to happen last year.

With more years than I care to admit under my belt visiting with a variety of people– my mom, husband, girlfriends, and kids included– I’ve pulled together the ultimate visitor’s guide to Charleston for just about any type of trip including favorite places to stay, eat, shop, drink, stroll, and play. Whether this will be your first visit or you are a seasoned Charlestonian, I hope you’ll find this ‘insiders’ guide comprehensive and helpful!

When to Go to Charleston

It’s hot here, and if you’re not prepared for the heat and humidity then summers can be rough. Charleston is considered semi-tropical and if you’ve ever visited in July I’m sure you’ll agree! The most popular and seasonal times to visit are the spring and fall, when you get the full experience of the beauty of the gardens and windowboxes with less of a chance of it being sweltering. I’ve visited as early as March and as late as November, and the temperature was totally bearable which made getting around easy and comfortable.

Where to Stay in Charleston

I’ve actually only stayed in three different places recently, in extremely different budget categories as you’ll see below. You will pay dearly to stay in the actual historic district, with prices falling the further out you get. If budgets are tight, consider hotels across the bridge that offer transportation to the downtown area. Yelp and TripAdvisor are good ways to get the scoop on other places to stay, and don’t forget to check out VRBO or AirBnB for non-hotel options. Here are two places I’ve personally enjoyed:

The HarbourView Inn

Don’t stay here, you’ll hate it. Okay just kidding it’s amazing, but I don’t want my secret favorite place to get out. Wine and cheese on the rooftop, M&M dispensers in the lobby, and the location can not get any better. It’s expensive but in my opinion worth every penny. Great for girl’s weekends or romantic getaways.

View from the Rooftop at the HarbourView, with a view of The Vendue Inn

Hampton Inn- Charleston Historic District

Location, location, location! This is directly across from the Vistor’s Center and the shuttle pick-up which makes it extremely convenient. Plus King Street is just steps away, offering some of the best eating and shopping the city has to offer. The rooms are a little outdated but clean. They gave my kids teddy bears upon check-in and offered cookies and a free breakfast. This is a great hotel for mid-range budgets or traveling with kids. I’m a hotel snob (can’t help it) and can rarely relax enough to sleep anywhere but the most pristine hotel but did fine here. Note that there is a pool, though I did my best to hide it from the kids because I didn’t want to be stuck there all day. #MomHack The staff is extremely friendly and welcoming, too.

The Vendue: I can’t speak to what it’s like recently, as I stayed here about 5 years ago and it’s undergone a huge renovation and overhaul from ‘old money’ to ‘Charleston’s Art Hotel’. I can say the rooftop is one of my favorite spots in the entire city, though, and there’s a coffee shop attached. It’s rated the #1 hotel in Charleston by Travel and Leisure and has great recent reviews.

Where to Eat in Charleston

Charleston is an eating and drinking city. The food is so spectacular, the list of where NOT to eat would be shorter then the list of where to eat, quite frankly. The competition is tight and the restaurants bring their ‘A’ game. Many people rave about Poogans Porch and Hymans Seafood but popular tourist restaurants aren’t my jam, however that’s not to say you won’t love them. I prefer any of the following tried and true Charleston eats:

Husk: hands down one of my favorite places to eat in Charleston, and everyone else’s too. The setting is quaint and the food farm-to-table and delicious. Get your reservations ASAP otherwise it’s tough to get a table.

Husk’s Shrimp and Grits

Cru Cafe: tucked away on a side street, you might give this one a pass if you didn’t know about the deliciousness waiting inside. The food here is incredible. The atmosphere is like a little cafe in someone’s home so seating is limited. Get the truffle fries and whatever else tickles your fancy and buckle up for a wonderful meal!

Halls Chophouse: my oh my, I’m so happy I found Halls and their Sunday Gospel Brunch! This was one of the highlights of my last trip. It books up super fast, so snag your Sunday reservation as soon as you know you’ll be there. Billy Hall personally welcomes guests at the door, and sometimes sends over apertifs for special occasions. The gospel music will fill your soul and the food will fill your belly. Just do this one, trust me!

Brunch at Halls:

Stars Grill and Rooftop: Definitely the place to be on a Friday or Saturday night, you’ll often see Stars as the background in a certain reality show set in Charleston. 😉 We took a large party and the food was delish and they accommodated our kids as well. You can eat dinner here and then head up to the rooftop for drinks, or skip the food and enjoy the atmosphere upstairs!

Jenni’s Ice Cream: This was within walking distance of our hotel when I took the kids and woo-boy it is DELICIOUS as evidenced by the line out the door. With many unique flavors of ice cream, it was hard to choose just one!

PawPaw: PawPaw gets great reviews and kindly accommodated our large party (which included 6 kids and two spilled drinks) without blinking an eye. I love restaurants that don’t make you compromise good food and drinks just because you have kids with you. The location is fab as well, it’s on East Bay St. between the waterfront park and City Market. As you can see, this happy crew enjoyed it and the wait staff were especially awesome.

Magnolias: Magnolias is a mainstay in Charleston, and it’s a good place to get a meal but it hasn’t been my favorite. My meal that consisted of mostly veggies was loaded with cheese and cream. However, it’s always packed and gets great reviews so perhaps I was there on an off-night.

82 Queen: The courtyard has a wonderful atmosphere and this was the first place I ever tried shrimp and grits 15 years ago! Go for the She Crab soup, it does not disappoint. 82 Queen will always have a place in my heart for nostalgic reasons and the courtyard is a gorgeous spot to dine al fresco. There’s a cheeky little shop next door as well that I love to browse.

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit: YUM. Is it really the south if you don’t have at least one biscuit on your visit?

167 Raw: I haven’t dined here (yet), but 167 Raw always has a line out the door and a fantastic reputation for not just some of the best food in Charleston but the rest of the country as well. If you love raw food, put this one on your list and expect a meal that is worth the wait.

Justine’s: Justine’s is authentic southern cooking and the pimento cheese dishes get rave reviews. Expect okra, black eyed peas, cornbread, fried chicken, and other southern staples. It’s unassuming and homey, perfect for lunch.

FIG (Food Is Good): I think this is another restaurant I really wanted to love but we must have been there on an off-night because for my group it didn’t live up to the hype. Again, it’s consistently one of the top spots in Charleston with impeccable reviews and James Beard level food, but personally I prefer Husk. With elevated dishes like suckling pig and sticky sorghum cake, this is one place I would not take my kids because truly I don’t think they would eat anything on the menu. With 4.5 stars on Yelp however, it’s on my list to try again.

A Charleston mainstay, Slightly North of Broad (also known as SNOB) 😉

Where to Drink in Charleston

Oh the places you’ll drink! You can have a great time in Charleston without consuming alcohol, but it’s easy to get into the schedule of having nice mimosa at breakfast, an afternoon cocktail with lunch, and then a glass of wine with dinner and possibly a nightcap on the rooftop deck. Not that I would know anything about that. 😉

With that in mind, The Rooftop at the Vendue and Stars are two top rooftop spots to enjoy. I’ve heard The MacIntosh is a fantastic place to grab a drink as well. Prohibition serves dinner but turns into a nightclub vibe if you stay afterwards. Cypress had amazing lavender martinis but they have since closed; hopefully whatever opens in that space will continue the tradition. Charleston is a city that runs on alcohol, so pretty much anywhere you go will have craft cocktails, beer, and top shelf whisky, bourbon, and scotch if you care to enjoy it. Plus, you can visit distilleries such as Firefly  for tastings and tours (see Side Trips, below).

Rooftop at the Vendue

What to See in Charleston

This could take up a dozen blog posts, so I’ll try to keep the list to the bare minimum of what you should see, with a few suggestions for day trips at the bottom if you happen to have a little extra time in town.

Across from HarbourView Hotel at the end of Vendue Range is the Waterfront Park and Fountain . Take a walk out and watch for dolphins in the water! There’s giant swings to sit and enjoy the view if you can snag one, plus a fountain often filled with kids enjoying the cool water. Do yourself a favor and walk a few feet to the right (if you’re facing the harbor) and check out the Pineapple Fountain to get your requisite photo in front of it.

If you keep walking along East Bay towards White Point Gardens, you’ll come across the Old Exchange Building and Provost Dungeons. Take a tour if you have time, it’s great for young and old alike. The dungeon, believe it or not, is gorgeous with its brick arches. You can also see a section of the original wall that surrounded the city they uncovered during excavations. Great history lesson on this little tour!

The second floor of the Old Exchange

Turn left out of the Old Exchange, and keep walking down East Bay. If you have kids, there’s a little playground called the Hazel Parker playground . It’s nothing fancy but a good way to get energy out. We sat and watched our kids make new friends and invent games under the shade of the live oak and my heart about burst wide open.

Continue on, and you’ll soon reach The Battery and Rainbow Row . This is always worth a visit, you can just imagine the ships in the harbor and the grand ladies on the porticos hundreds of years ago.

Spend some time at White Point Gardens, which isn’t so much of a garden but rather a stunning copse of live oak trees and cannons to check out.

From here, you can make your way up any of the stunning side streets. My favorite is Church Street because it’s so quaint, but really you can’t go wrong. Wonder and marvel at the gates, gardens, and architecture! There’s lots of historic homes to tour in this area if you enjoy that.

From here, you can cut left and do some shopping and eating on King Street or head up to The City Market via shuttle (or if you have the energy it’s a bit of a hike to walk but worth it to see the sights along the way.)

The City Market is a 4-block market filled with gifts, authentic southern crafts, and more. It’s crowded and can be overwhelming, but I gave my kids a few dollars and let them pick something out so they loved it. We sipped lemonade as we made our way through the market and some of the same stands have been there since I first visited 20 years ago! This is where you will find the stunning seagrass baskets being woven and sold. There’s also a lot of places to eat in this area and Market Street if it’s time for lunch.

The Custom House, which is near the market

Carriage Rides: One way to see the sights without walking is to take a carriage ride. I found Old South Carriage Company to be responsible when it came to the care of its horses. I realize opinions will vary here, but the horses were well taken care of, happy, and treated fairly. Be aware that if you do choose to do a carriage ride, you can’t pick your route. Charleston only allows a certain number of carriages on the streets at one time and has divided the city into three zones to reduce traffic issues. Any of the routes you get will be informative and interesting, but just a heads-up there’s no guarantee you’ll be getting a view of Rainbow Row via carriage!

Fort Sumter: A ticket to Ft. Sumter includes a ferry ride to the island and some time there to explore the grounds and museums. We found it well worth it to make the trip out, the kids loved being on the boat and exploring history firsthand. They finished seeing everything a little before the boat was scheduled to depart so they enjoyed exploring the beach and looking for treasures.

Aquarium and Kids Museum: On rainy days or if you’re there for longer than two days, the Aquarium and Kids Museum offer other options to entertain kids.

Shopping in Charleston

If you enjoy shopping, Charleston is your city! King Street is filled for miles with exclusive boutiques, retail chains such as Lily Pulitzer and Kate Spade, art galleries, photography galleries (make sure you visit Ben Ham Galleries to see stunning large-scale photos of local landscapes), antiques, shoes, and home decor.

City Market is touristy but you’ll find your grits and seagrass baskets here along with souvenirs for the kiddos. Savannah’s Candy Kitchen on the corner of Market and East Bay is a dream come true for those with a sweet tooth.

Side Trips in and Near Charleston

Magnolia Plantation and Middleton Place are large enough to spend almost the entire day immersed in exploring gardens, history, and the mansions.

Sullivans Island and Isle of Palms are popular places to slow down the pace a bit and enjoy the beach and southern hospitality.

Firefly Distillery on nearby Wadmalaw Island has tours and tastings. There is a small petting zoo but the distillery is not open to kids, so plan to switch off with another adult if you would like to bring them. Beautiful scenery and low-key environment.

The Citadel Dress Parade is impressive and worth a visit if you happen to be there on a Friday afternoon. Check the schedule as it varies throughout the year.

Getting Around Charleston

Charleston can be crowded and it’s tough to find parking because of the narrow streets; therefore, park outside of the downtown area or in a lot at your hotel when possible and take advantage of these other modes of transportation:

Walking- by far my favorite way to get around the city. There’s so much to see and do and smell and experience! Charleston is famous for it’s hidden gardens and gorgeous gates and architecture, so slow is often the way to go. Keep in mind that the sidewalks are uneven and sometimes contain bricks and cobblestones so comfy shoes are a must. Plus, truth be told I prefer walking off all the thousands of calories I’ll invariably consume in a single visit.

Uber: Ubers abound in the city, and it’s a great way to get around when your feet are tired or late at night. Don’t be surprised if someone pulls over and asks, “y’all need an uber?” (yes, this actually happened!) This is a handy way to get from hotels outside the historic district to the downtown attractions.

Shuttle: There’s a complimentary shuttle that takes you throughout the downtown. The main pick-up is at the Visitor’s Center, and it takes you in a loop of popular destinations throughout the historic district. The downside is sometimes it takes 15 minutes to catch the next one, and they get crowded. This is a great FREE option if traveling with (tired) kiddos, though.

Pedi-cab: Pedi-cabs are another way to get around, and you can often find them around the city market area.

What to Wear in Charleston

Believe it or not, this is the question I get asked the most! You can be as dressed up or down as you wish, you’ll see everything from t-shirts and shorts to high-end designer frocks. Truthfully, it depends on why you’re there and who you are with. Plan to sightsee all day with kids, go super comfy! Want to shop up and down King St? Dress up a little to make it extra fun as you pop into the high-end shops. Hitting the rooftops? Don’t overdo it, but skinny jeans and a nice top work great.

My goal is cute & chic but comfy. Case in point:

poncho (no longer available, here’s one I adore that is!) // leopard flats // tassel clutch (no longer in stock, but I LOVE this one ! // leggings no longer in stock but these got rave reviews or go for a moto legging for extra on-trend style

my son thought this would be funny…

Saucony sneakers // sub_urban tee ( similar ) // light sweatshirt ( similar ) // hat ( similar ) // black leggings

This is the only recent one I have of us out at night and there’s a photobomber in the background, ha! This was as fancy as we got, and it was great.

Don’t forget the most important thing: your shoes. The streets and sidewalks can be uneven and often consist of bricks and cobblestones. I lived in my Sam Edelman flats and Saucony sneakers during the day, and kicked it up a notch at night with wedge sandals since we Ubered it and I didn’t have to worry about walking long distances.

Bottom line: the crowd ranges from college students to retirees, and everyone is there to eat good food and have a great time. Don’t worry about what you wear, as long as it makes you feel happy!

That about wraps it up: the guide I’ve literally spent months writing and years researching. 😉 Amazing places are always opening up in Charleston, yet it feels frozen in time just the same. I’m due for a visit,who’s up for a road trip?!

What are your favorite places to eat, drink, shop, and stroll while in charleston share in the comments so this will be the ultimate of the ultimate charleston visitor’s guides.

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Charleston, South Carolina's historic French Quarter skyline.

If you amble down Legare (pronounced Luh-gree) Street, one of the prettiest streets in Charleston’s South of Broad, you pass filigree ironwork gates and secret gardens, antebellum mansions and live oaks. Then suddenly, in front of one of the mansions, there’s a large stone half circle on the street.

An example of the intricate iron gates in front of Charleston mansions and gardens

“Can you guess what that is,” asks Bill Harris, founder, co-owner and extremely knowledgeable private guide of Oyster Point Tours which specializes in detailed, authentic walking tours around the city. I ask whether it relates to the cotton or rice trade, the industries that led to the fortunes of many of the former residents of this street. A mark of a secret society? An industrial accident? “Think of a woman wearing a voluminous hoop skirt climbing into a carriage,” Harris says. “She can’t get into it from the street but she can if she stands on this stone, half of a grinding wheel.” In that moment, one image makes history come alive; it’s easy to imagine the personalities, the social life, the day to day activities of this street and with it, of this beguiling city.

The mansions of The Battery facing Charleston Harbor

Charleston has long been admired as the belle of the south, with street upon cobblestone street lined with those terraced, colorful mansions and flowering trees. The history, of course, is more complicated than that. When you stand on the Battery and look across Charleston harbor, you can see Fort Sumter, the attack on which started the Civil War. Looking out through the windows of the impressive International African American Museum which opened last year and describes the African diaspora in extensive detail, you see Gadsden’s Wharf where an estimated 40% of African captives entered this country as slaves. In 2018, the Charleston City Council passed a resolution acknowledging and apologizing for its slavery role.

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The colorful houses of Rainbow Row.

On a lighter note, even the city’s very proper image may not be as true as it seems. “Charleston is a drinking town with a history problem,” according to a guide I overheard walking his guests past the multicolored houses of Rainbow Row. It may not be as obvious about it as a well known party town like New Orleans, which it reportedly exceeds in alcohol consumption, but residents clearly like to have a good time and the lively bar and restaurant scene reflects it.

The Citrus Club terrace

Among the best of many options: The Citrus Club atop the Dewberry Hotel combines cocktails with rooftop views of the city; the subterranean Bar Vauté below Brasserie La Banque has more of a speakeasy feel; Proof , street level on King Street, specializes in high end craft cocktails with a large list for wines by the glass. Other popular bars also feature top notch food such as Xiao Bao Biscuit located in a former gas station with a pan-Asian menu and 39 Rue de Jean , a lively, brick walled brasserie.

A selection of dishes at Vern's

The restaurant scene is, as always, energetic with some familiar chefs back on the scene in new ventures. The Elliotborough neighborhood bistro Vern’s represents a return to town of Bethany and Dano Heinze, formerly behind the Charleston institution McCrady’s, and it’s a tough reservation to get. (There are, however, seats at the small bar for walk-ins.) The menu is American/Lowcountry/idiosyncratic with sizeable portions of really delicious options such as Jumbo Lump Crab Cake with Cherry Bomb Pepper, Cabbage and Smoked Hollandaise, Grilled Pork Loin with Lion’s Mane Mushrooms, Sweet Potato and Black Truffles, the scalloped pasta Campanelli with rabbit, black pepper and Vacche Rosse cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano taken to the next level) and Charred Sourdough with Allium Butter and Dill.

Crispy quail at Lowland

After 15 years and a James Beard Award at the ongoing culinary powerhouse FIG, Jason Stanhope opened Lowland alongside the Method Co. team last November in the former Lequeux-Williams House, a former private residence that dates to 1834 on George Street, now part of The Pinch hotel complex. Originally, the three dining rooms, each decorated with early Americana artifacts and wall coverings/murals featured a tavern menu downstairs and tasting menu upstairs but all three serve the tavern a la carte menu now and the flavors displayed are enticingly vivid. Among the appealing featured dishes: Chicken + Shrimp Skewers which deserve a better name because they’re a piquant/slightly sweet knob of lacquered chicken wrapped around the shrimp not pieces stacked alongside; Covington Sweet Potato Ravioli with brown butter, sage and amaretti; Rigatoni + Calabrian Pork Ragu; Crispy Quail and Pork Cutlet Parmigiana. Plus, for dessert, an irresistible version of a classic English dessert: Banoffee Pudding.

The Quinte Oyster Bar

Across the alley from Lowland and also part of The Pinch, The Quinte Oyster Bar originally opened in 2022 and reopened under Stanhope’s direction also in November. The curated menu includes a daily changing menu of local oysters, Tuna Crudo with Salsa Criolla and Horseradish, Seafood Chowder, Chilled Tarvin Shrimp with fancy Cognac sauce and soft serve vanilla ice cream with either aged balsamico and extra virgin olive oil or brown butter and pecans.

Roasted oysters with Creole butter and hushpuppy crumble at Delaney Oyster House

Naturally, in a city renowned for its seafood, it isn’t alone. James London, the chef of Chubby Fish , down the street from Vern’s, was recently named a 2024 James Beard Award semifinalist for his globetrotting creations such as Grilled Oysters with crab fat curry and cashews. A panoply of seafood, some with a distinctly Latin tilt and all of it sparkling fresh, fills the menu of Delaney Oyster House; dishes include Roasted Oysters with Creole Butter and Hushpuppy Crumble, Spanish Octopus and Royal Red Shrimp and Bucatini. Fleet Landing is a longstanding, reliable spot for Seafood Towers, Crab Cakes, Fried Seafood Platters, Blue Crab Dip and She-Crab Soup with waterfront views from the terrace overlooking the Cooper River. And smack in the middle of the historic district on East Bay Street, Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar is brimming with oyster varieties and dishes such as Sweet and Spicy Shrimp and Lowcountry Seafood Pirlou (Charleston’s version of Jambalaya.) It’s also across the street from Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar with its large, rich, sweet and incredibly popular (order online to avoid waiting on line) chocolate peanut butter, carrot and cannoli cakes.

A bedroom at The Pinch

Where to Stay: With both Lowland and The Quinte Oyster Bar as part of the hotel, guests of The Pinch might not feel the need to have a kitchen but each of the 25 suites spread among three buildings here has one and a deluxe one at that with marble or black walnut countertops and top of the line appliances. The overall tone of the hotel is fresh and contemporary but with a mix of designs and furnishings from different eras giving it a more layered, nuanced depth. It’s also on the corner of George and King Streets, nirvana for shoppers given the lineup on King Street and for checking out other restaurant options. The only drawback: suites facing busy King Street directly may get some street noise; additional soundproofing would be useful.

Outdoor seating at Zero George

In contrast, the tenor of Zero George at the other end of George Street, could not be quieter and more relaxing; behind tall gates, it’s a complex of five 1800s-era buildings with historic residences and brick carriage houses surrounding a private garden courtyard with separate areas of chairs, couches and tables. Guests use them during the day for alfresco dining with the generous complimentary breakfasts, including flaky biscuits and a cooked kitchen option, the complimentary wine and charcuterie hour at 5:00 every day and for general hanging out in-between sightseeing and after dinner.

The whimsical presentations of the opening acts including foie gras and steak tartare of the ... [+] Restaurant at Zero George tasting menu.

The overall tone is cossetting and old fashioned in the best way: traditional, European-influenced décor in the 16 suites and one-to-three-bedroom residences and a staff that seemingly can’t do enough for guests. The property is also home to The Caviar Bar and the esteemed Restaurant at Zero George from chef Vinson Petrillo (who also recently opened the coastal Italian restaurant Costa in town) which draws locals and guests from other hotels in town for creative, whimsical tasting menus with courses that actually taste as good as they look. And positioned on the corner of East Bay Street, it’s an easy walk south from the hotel to the major historical sites. (Also since the restaurant doesn’t serve lunch, it’s an easy walk to Ted’s Butcherblock , a market and cafe around the corner to pick up a sandwich such as their bestselling Wagyu beef with caramelized onions, sauteed mushrooms and blue cheese aioli on a ciabatta roll.) If there weren’t so much else to see and try in town, though, it would be tempting for guests to not leave the grounds at all.

Filet Mignon topped with fried oysters, BBQ oysters and Skillet corn bread with honey butter at The ... [+] Independent.

While in Charleston: It’s easy to venture north or south for a sidetrip. About an hour north, the historic town of Georgetown is a fishing mecca with tournaments from January through April; kayaking tours are also available through tranquil coastal rivers. The town also has a new, design forward boutique hotel The George with a restaurant The Independent featuring spins on Southern dishes such as She-Crab Soup, BBQ Clams, Skillet Corn Bread with Honey Butter, Blackened Flounder with Lump Crab & Andouille Sausage Pileau and Hummingbird (spice) Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Icing, Salted Caramel Sauce and Spiced Pecans that are so delicious they would justify a trip here on their own.

The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection, set to open on Johns Island south of Charleston in August.

In the other direction, Kiawah Island Golf Resort , a well-known residential beach and golf destination, is an hour south of the city. Set to open in August on the banks of the Kiawah River on nearby Johns Island: The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection will feature 72 rooms in breezy, Southern style of honey oak floors, mint green accents and rustic prints along with a classic Southern menu and activities utilizing the 20 miles of waterfront.

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Travel | your friends aren’t wrong: for girls trips, charleston is now a mainstay.

Walking out of the Charleston airport, we trailed behind a group of women, including one with a gold crown and birthday sash. Clearly this was a girls trip.

And we, too, were there for such a trip, three friends celebrating the five-year anniversary of our friendship and hoping for good food and some sunshine.

Turns out, we found just the place.

We chose South Carolina because we kept hearing about the historic port city of Charleston. A friend’s friend had gone there; a neighbor had just returned from a girls trip, drinking frozen rosé and riding a mechanical bull at El Jefe restaurant.

The city won out over mainstays like Miami and Nashville because it had sun — a must for leaving Chicago in March — and none of us had been there. Plus, so many friends couldn’t be wrong, right?

Charleston’s Instagram-worthy streets have long made it a wedding destination and now, too, a women’s trip destination. Gorgeous scenery abounds, from the brightly colored houses on Rainbow Row to the poolside scene at Little Palm restaurant and the fragrant, blooming wisteria trees.

The city’s tourism bureau actively advertises the Girlfriend Getaway for “4 days to sip, shop & selfie in Charleston,” including candle shops, spa offerings and Parisian cocktails.

The hospitality director of the downtown Guesthouse Charleston, where we stayed, said it often hosts such getaways. “Women travel groups have definitely increased in the last few years,” Kerri Beasley said. “Ages range from early 20s to 70s-plus.”

We arrived on a sunny day in Charleston, escaping cold, driving rain in Chicago. We lucked out with the weather, which featured 70-degree days. But the bright greenery flowing throughout the city and bold colors of the homes would have brightened our winter getaway regardless of weather. Every street seemed to have some hidden courtyard or bright blooms.

Our goal was simple: wine with dinner, interruption-free sleep and some unfettered time to really talk and hang out together.

Charleston itself skews more toward women; the city is 52.5% female, according to census data. And as we kept asking various people we encountered, more than one told us it’s hard to date in Charleston because the apps seem to have way more single men than women.

On our first morning, we took a walking excursion offered by Two Sisters Tours, run by two sisters whose family roots in Charleston date to 1793. We heard about Charleston’s history while strolling through streets and hidden nooks we’d never have known were pathways. We learned about everything from how the palm trees are actually palmettos to noting bolts used to repair earthquake damage to buildings.

Charleston is known for its cobblestone streets, many of which we meandered through on the walking tour. We also saw horse-drawn carriages ferrying people on their own historical tours. The city also has many historic houses; we visited during the annual Charleston Festival, which provided access to some private homes and gardens .

We stopped outside the Nathaniel Russell House Museum and toured its garden. If we had more time, we would’ve gone inside to see exhibits about the lives of both the elite and the “enslaved men and women whose forced labor made possible their lavish lifestyles,” according to the website of the Historic Charleston Foundation.

On King Street, the Preservation Society of Charleston has a neat shop with local art and items like feathered jewelry and thoughtful, local children’s books. Proceeds help preserve the city’s character, quality of life and diverse neighborhoods.

Walking along King Street, dotted with shops and restaurants, we saw so many groups of three or four women clearly vacationing together it felt comical at first, but eventually we began to feel a sense of camaraderie. One morning we waved to a group of four ladies on a porch on the same property where we were staying, all with coffees and gold under-eye masks.

The female-heavy vibe felt empowering, not overpowering. We saw bachelorette parties. We saw midlife women celebrating birthdays. We met a waitress whose mom had just come through on her own trip.

Charleston’s restaurants are well known for award-winning cuisine, and we found our experience no different. At Vern’s, often seen on must-visit lists, we ordered multiple dishes, including a delicious pork loin and appreciated the selection of natural wines. Our waiter was patient with our slow decisions, and it was a cozy space to watch the sky darken outside.

We also enjoyed a laid-back vibe downtown at Indaco, where the spicy soppressata pizza had a surprising amount of flavor and the pastas included raviolini with peas and prosciutto.

Wherever you dine, make reservations early as places book up. Even a 7:15 p.m. reservation couldn’t be moved to 8, as many spaces are small and can’t easily shift table plans.

At Sorelle, which opened about a year ago, we found an inviting space with small, elegant touches throughout, including marble imported from Italy. The airy space serves espresso in the morning, inventive cocktails in the afternoon and dinner as well. We went twice.

Over at Millers All Day, we watched women filter in with matching hats or shirts for the popular brunch, boasting a hot honey chicken sandwich and the King Street bowl, a flavorful mix of eggs, grits, sausage, pimento cheese, home fries and sausage gravy.

Server Noelle Verrusio said girls trips are ubiquitous. At a previous place where she worked, which was coated in pink décor, she said, “It was like 15, 15, 15 (in each party) and we were on a wait all the time.”

If she saw a bachelor’s party, she said laughing, “I would’ve been like, ‘Are you guys, OK?’”

When we ventured to Folly Beach, seeing men playing frisbee in the sand brought to mind the feeling of leaving Barbieland and entering Kendom.

Throughout our trip, we encountered Southern hospitality, with people always eager to give us recommendations for activities. Downtown shop Candlefish offers BYOB candle-making classes at $60; or you can try your hand as a mixologist at Sweet Grass Vodka , with classes at $85 per person.

Be sure to visit the water. We tried a sunset cruise on the Schooner Pride — cruise options include dolphin spotting — which departed from a harbor by the aquarium and featured a gorgeous sunset; passengers could even help put up the sail. But do note, however, that alcohol is not allowed on public beaches, and police do issue tickets.

As we were leaving Charleston, we were already planning to perhaps bring back the families and stay on the water, driving into downtown for those delicious meals.

On the flight home, I sat near yet another woman returning from a girls trip. So did my friend, in a separate row.

Although we never did try the mechanical bull at El Jefe, it’s awaiting our next girls trip. We’ll prepare to wait in line.

Alison Bowen is a freelancer.

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