A First-time Visitor's Guide to Charleston, SC
If you're planning a trip to the Holy City, you need this visitors guide to Charleston, SC!
Lucky for you, you've got a native Charlestonian at the helm to share the real tips on where to visit, eat, shop, and sleep in historic Charleston, South Carolina.
I was born here, and other than an eight-year-gap when I lived elsewhere in South Carolina, I've called Charleston my home my entire life.
From school field trips to my own wanderings, I've seen most of what the Holy City has to offer as a child, teenager, young adult, and parent.
Skip the other Charleston SC visitors guides (by bloggers who haven't spent much time here!), and get ready to feel like a local with these Charleston travel tips.
This post contains affiliates. If you purchase through the links, I will receive a commission at no charge to you.
Updated 4/2024 | Written 2/2015
Why Should You Go to Charleston SC?
Rainbow Row in the historic district of Charleston SC
The better question is probably why haven't you visited Charleston already?!
Jokes aside, Charleston is a medium sized city that has an easily walkable historic district, over 400 years of colonial history, and thousands of years in pre-colonial history.
It has 3 fantastic beaches within easy driving distance of the main historic area, and there's gorgeous architecture wherever you turn.
You could spend 2 days in Charleston and have a wonderful time, or you could spend 2 months here.
In both situations, you'd never run out of things to do.
Plus, it's great for all sorts of trips.
Bachelor/bachelorette parties on King Street, cultural based family travel, a family beach reunion, or a couple's romantic getaway are all equally possible here!
What Area of Charleston is Best to Stay In?
If you’re planning to do a quick trip to Charleston, I’d suggest staying in the historic district in downtown Charleston.
However, if you’re planning a longer trip with excursions to the beaches, plantations, and more, you could stay in West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, or North Charleston to be more centrally located to your chosen destinations.
Getting the Lay of the Land
When I run into people visiting Charleston, many of them express confusion on why the beaches aren't closer to the downtown area.
I think this issue comes from the fact that guide books push the "Charleston is walking accessible" angle and leave out the fact that the historic district is only one part of the larger Charleston area.
Adding to the confusion, we tend to call the entire Charleston area "Charleston" even when it isn't part of the city of Charleston.
And, North Charleston isn't just north of the peninsula.
It's a completely separate municipality several miles north of the main historic peninsula.
The Different Areas of Charleston
As you can see from my map, downtown Charleston (the place with Rainbow Row and the carriage tours) is only a tiny part of the larger Charleston area.
While downtown tends to get most of the focus, I'd encourage you to rent a car and explore the entire area. If you want to go to the beaches or the plantations, you need a car anyway.
Those trips can be done on the local CARTA bus system, but keep in mind that our public transportation can be slow.
Downtown Charleston
If you're only staying for a few days and you want to make do without a car, this is where you should concentrate your time and effort.
There are some amazing restaurants, historical homes, and parks within easy walking distance of any of the recommended hotels (see below in this post).
>> Get my full list of suggestions on the best things to do in Charleston SC. <<
James Island
Mostly a bedroom community of Charleston, James Island is a fun and funky spot on the way out to Folly Beach.
If you're visiting on a warm weekend, note that there's one way in and one way out, so be prepared for a lot of beach traffic.
Folly Beach
Known as the "Edge of America" for its dramatic ocean views.
Take a walk along the northern tip of the island to see Morris Island lighthouse and search for shark's teeth. If you're feeling brave, attempt to surf in The Washout.
>> Check out my favorite things to do in Folly Beach! <<
Mount Pleasant
Another bedroom community of Charleston that's quite upscale.
Mount Pleasant's historic Old Village has been the spot for many Charleston filming locations, and is well worth a visit.
There's a large shopping center, Towne Center, for last minute souvenir shopping, and Mount Pleasant offers bridge access to both Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms.
>> Explore my hometown with these fun things to do in Mount Pleasant! <<
Sullivan’s Island
The smaller of the two barrier islands on the Mount Pleasant side.
There's a feeling of "shabby chic" as these beach cottages grow larger each year: even the shabbiest are worth upwards of $1 million.
Grab a burger at Poe's Tavern (YUM) and people watch on Middle Street, then head to the Fort Moultrie National Historic Site.
NOTE: Don't attempt to swim on the southern end of Sullivans Island or near Breach Inlet as the currents are extremely dangerous.
>> Learn more about the wide array of things to do in Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island. <<
Isle of Palms
The more populated, but still swanky of the two Mount Pleasant-area islands.
A popular county park offers showers, picnic tables, and volleyball nets for a fee, but be prepared to wait for a spot on summer weekends.
Palm Boulevard has shops and restaurants a plenty, but we love the Acme Lowcountry Kitchen on JC Long Boulevard (walking distance from the main beach access and pier).
West Ashley
A newly revitalized area with trendy restaurants at Avondale and historical plantations on Highway 61.
The area is just over the Ashley river from downtown, and offers less expensive hotels than the historic district.
North Charleston
Another mid-sized city northwest of the harbor.
It's a sprawling place connected by two major highways (I-26 and I-526).
If you're flying into Charleston, the airport is at the junction of these two highways.
The Shipyard area hosts The Hunley Museum as well as several breweries, and there are so many historic things to do in North Charleston!
While some areas like Park Circle are adorable and safe, other parts of North Charleston are less so.
Use caution when selecting an AirBnB or hotel in this area as there are pockets of crime.
What are the Best Hotels in Charleston?
If you're staying in downtown Charleston (aka the historic peninsula), there are plenty of options for every budget.
The recommended hotels below are ones that I personally have experience with and can recommend to my readers!
Holiday Inn Charleston Historic District
The Holiday Inn Charleston Historic District is one of the newer hotels on the peninsula.
It's just a block from the Visitors Center and within easy walking distance of Marion Square and King Street.
>> Read my full review of the Holiday Inn Charleston Historic District review here. <<
PROS: Clean, modern interior; on the same street as the Woolfe Street Playhouse; 1 block from the Visitors Center; 2 blocks from the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry.
CONS: It's a hike from this hotel to the Battery, Rainbow Row, and White Point Gardens if you plan to walk the historic peninsula.
Also, the area across Meeting from this hotel aren't the safest after dark (as long as you stay on Meeting, you'll be fine no matter the time of day), but I wouldn't recommend wandering down Nassau, Reid, America, or South Streets.
The Ryder Inn
The Ryder Inn on Market Street is one of the lower priced hotels in historic Charleston SC that is still in a safe, walkable areas.
The Ryder Inn used to be the Best Western King Charles Inn, but recently underwent a major renovation and name change.
PROS: fantastic location across the street from the Market; 1 block from the majority of the shopping on King Street; convenient to both ends of the historic district; there's an onsite pool.
CONS: Because it's in the middle of the action, this location can be noisy no matter the time of day or night. Ask for a room away from Meeting Street.
The Wentworth Mansion
Wentworth Mansion is an incredible property with beautifully appointed rooms and a feel of old school luxury.
In the mid-1800s, it served as a private home to the Rodgers family (who had 13 children!).
PROS: high-end detailing, including Tiffany glass features, and antiques; fantastic onsite restaurant, Circa 1886; gorgeous landscaping
CONS: Its location is near to MUSC on the western side of the historic district, which is fine if you're visiting the hospital, but not so great if you want to walk to the sites.
College of Charleston and Marion Square are 5 or 6 blocks away, and the City Market and Old Exchange building are more than a mile away.
The Francis Marion Hotel
The Francis Marion Hotel is named after the legendary "Swamp Fox," who helped the South Carolina cause during the American Revolution.
This beautiful hotel has been here since the 1920s and underwent a renovation a few years ago to keep it fresh.
PROS: historic hotel; less than 1 block from College of Charleston; overlooks Marion Square; great shopping along King Street
CONS: rooms are a bit bland (neutral color scheme) and un-uniform (it's an old hotel so one queen bedroom isn't going to look exactly like all of the other queen bedrooms)
The Charleston Place
Book a stay at the iconic Charleston Place to experience luxurious accommodations in the middle of the historic district.
PROS: the most centrally located of all hotels on the peninsula; shopping on the first floor of the hotel; multiple hotel restaurants to choose from
CONS: bordered by 2 major busy streets (King and Meeting); lots of non-hotel foot traffic throughout the day as visitors explore the hotel
Charleston Boutique Hotels
There are also many smaller Charleston boutique hotels if you're looking for a more intimate experience.
My favorite has to be Planters Inn, which is located at the heart of the historic district for maximum walkability.
The Planters Inn also has the BEST coconut cake ever!
>> Book the Planters Inn here. <<
PROS: great locations within the historic district; visitors can get to know staff and other patrons; cocktail hours offered; beautiful, private-garden like landscaping
CONS: smaller with fewer amenities; bookings go extremely quickly; there are often weddings/wedding parties at these hotels
Hotels outside of the Historic District
If you're willing to drive over the Ravenel Bridge to Mount Pleasant or the Ashley River Bridge to West Ashley, you can get some great deals on hotels.
Mount Pleasant
In Mount Pleasant, I recommend Hampton Inn Patriots Point.
This is part of a national chain, but it is extremely convenient to both the historic district and two of the barrier islands.
It’s also close to Mount Pleasant's new Waterfront Park, which has a great playground, tackle shop, and pier.
West Ashley
In West Ashley, the Holiday Inn Charleston-Riverview is an iconic round hotel overlooking the Charleston Marina.
PROS: Less expensive than downtown hotels; outdoor pools; ample parking
CONS: Have to rent a car; have to then fight downtown Charleston parking while sightseeing
Where Do the Locals Eat in Charleston SC?
Charleston has so many great places that I don't think you can really go wrong no matter your budget, tastes, or style.
I've broken down some of my favorite Charleston restaurants into a few different categories, and then suggested favorite dishes at each.
NOTE: I'm allergic to shellfish, but all recommendations for seafood have come from family and friends who have vetted them for me!
All of these are local restaurants, so you'll be supporting small business owners in this area.
Note that not all of these are in the historic district!
Trendy
The Ordinary (downtown): oysters on the half shell
O-ku (downtown): sushi, chicken teriyaki
Red's Ice House (Mt. Pleasant and Seabrook Island): fish and chips
Husk (downtown): the menu rotates seasonally since all of the ingredients are locally sourced
Fuel (downtown): braised pork tacos, fried plantains | Read my review of Fuel Restaurant in Charleston SC
Poe's (Sullivans Island): blue cheese coleslaw, any of their burgers
Fast and French (downtown): classic French picnic dishes with a modern twist. Always go with the daily special!
Poke Tea House (downtown): poke bowls and bubble teas
Lewis' Barbecue (downtown): brisket and macaroni
Classically Southern
Poogan's Porch (downtown): fried green tomato BLT, crab cakes, ham macaroni and cheese
Big John's Tavern (downtown): shrimp and grits with tasso gravy
Sewee Restaurant (Awendaw): fried flounder, potato salad, any dessert
Page's Okra Grill (Mount Pleasant): chicken and waffles, veggie platter
Callie's Little Hot Biscuit (downtown): cheese and chive biscuit
Cheap
Groucho's (Mount Pleasant and West Ashley): mushroom cheese melt or the Pink Moose
Tzakiki's (downtown and Mt. Pleasant): traditional gyro
Fancy
Halls Chophouse (downtown): any of the steaks, the corn casserole side dish
Eli's Table (downtown): filet mignon, pimento cheese and tomato appetizer
Peninsula Grill (downtown): the coconut cake
Breakfast
The Flying Biscuit (Mount Pleasant): breakfast quesadilla, chicken and waffles
Acme Cantina (Isle of Palms): the Southerner (sweet tea fried chicken on a biscuit)
Vicious Biscuit (Mount Pleasant): all day breakfast where everything is covered in marvelous gravy. Get the Vicious and be prepared for your taste buds to sob with joy.
Food Tours
Another great way to experience the food of Charleston is to take a food centered tour!
We’ve taken 2, both of which I recommend.
The Upper King Street Culinary Tour takes visitors around one of the trendiest areas in downtown Charleston.
After Hurricane Hugo destroyed much of Charleston in 1989, Upper King was one of the hardest hit areas, and large portions fell into disrepair.
By the early 2000s, a major revitalization was underway, and today, this area is filled with incredible restaurants!
The Farm to Table Charleston food tour has guests go to the weekly Saturday farmers market and select from a wide variety of fruits and veggies.
The tour then takes these selections to a local chef, who turns them into a custom 5-course meal for the participants.
This food tour is unique, creative, and perfectly local!
Best Sightseeing in Charleston SC
The Holy City has some tried and true attractions--I'm a firm believer that some things are popular because they're good.
So, while you're here, try out a few of the most well-known points of interest in Charleston, South Carolina, but don't forget to mix in a few hidden favorites as well!
Best Plantation Tours in Charleston SC
Plantations are a part of Charleston's history, so if you'd like to learn more, you need to head out to see the Ashley River Road plantation district.
The big three are Middleton Plantation, Drayton Hall, and Magnolia Plantation.
Of the three, I believe that Magnolia Plantation is the best plantation in Charleston since there's a great petting zoo, extensive gardens, a butterfly house, and restored slave quarters in addition to a tour of the main house.
>> Grab your tickets to Magnolia Plantation here. <<
If you're willing to drive further away from downtown, Hampton Plantation in McClellanville is never crowded.
Hampton Plantation in McClellanville, South Carolina
With its wide front porch and classical architecture, Hampton Plantation looks more like a stereotypical antebellum plantation than Magnolia Plantation does.
Hampton Plantation was also the home of South Carolina’s first Poet Laureate, Archibald Rutledge.
It’s just one of the many amazing places to see in McClellanville, South Carolina!
Historic Homes to Visit in Charleston
Many of the rich planters also had fashionable "city" homes in downtown Charleston, so you can get the full story by visiting both the plantations and the houses in historic Charleston SC.
The Edmonston-Alston House, the Nathaniel Russell House, and the Aiken-Rhett House are all within easy walking distance of the rest of the historic district.
The Best Charleston Beaches
If you'd like to see more of the Charleston area, I highly recommend renting a car or taking a cab out to one of the beaches.
My husband and our dog on Isle of Palms
Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, and Folly Beach are some of the best East Coast islands for family vacations, and they’re located just off the coast of Charleston.
Each has its individual charms, so check out all 3.
Visiting Fort Sumter circa 1994. I'm the cool kid in the middle, while my sister's rocking her rainbow bike shorts.
Military History in Charleston
There's a lot of military history in the Charleston area as well.
Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, is located in the middle of the Charleston harbor.
You can get a ferry over to this national monument from Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant or from the pier near the South Carolina Aquarium downtown.
>> Grab tickets to Fort Sumter here. <<
Patriots Point is more than just a ferry departure point.
It houses the U.S.S. Yorktown, the U.S.S. Clamagore submarine, military aircraft and much more.
Recently, the property added helicopter tours to the attractions. It's a pricey option, but a great way to see downtown and Mount Pleasant.
The Hunley Museum is dedicated to the restoration of the first submarine shot down in the Civil War.
The vessel was considered lost to time until it was rediscovered in 1995.
See the original 200 year old submarine as it is being restored, and learn about the process of finding and raising it.
Shoppers at Second Sunday on King
Best Shopping in Charleston
If you're into shopping, King Street will be your best friend.
Start just above Marion Square and work your way towards Lower King, where you'll pass all sorts of shops: J. Crew, Kate Spade, Lilly Pulitzer, Louis Vuitton, Anthropologie, and Gucci are just the start!
If you'd rather take home a painting, head over to East Bay and Broad Streets to the art district.
And, in 2022, Second Sunday on King is BACK!
This is a monthly event where King Street from Calhoun to Broad closes to traffic.
Restaurants pull their tables outside on the sidewalk, and there are food trucks and buskers.
Children's Activities in Charleston SC
For kids, a trip to the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry is always a hit.
We've been members of the museum for years, and it has remained one of my children's favorite places to visit since they've been little.
Thanks to local sponsorship, the museum recently underwent a renovation of several of its playspaces, which created fresh opportunities for imagination.
It isn't the biggest children's museum in the world, but it's very well done. The outside space is great for a picnic on a sunny day.
A stop at the fountain at Waterfront Park is another great break between historical tours.
Bring your kids' bathing suits (or a change of clothing) because they WILL want to splash in the water!
Afterwards, grab one of the swings just behind the fountain and let them dry off.
>> Explore more great things to do with kids in Charleston SC! <<
Final Charleston SC Tips and Thoughts
Decorative garage in downtown Charleston SC
I'm conflicted about the horse and buggy tours.
As a resident, I detest these things because they clog up traffic downtown (which isn't the greatest to begin with) and make the streets smell like horse pee.
While they are kind of hokey, the tour guides are extremely knowledgeable (all historic Charleston SC guides have to take a ridiculously rigorous test before leading a solo tour), and you'll be able to cover more ground than a walking tour.
Yet, the horses are required to work in the extreme summer heat of the Lowcountry, and while they appear to be well taken care of, there's a huge push right now to get rid of the horse and buggy tours.
I'd also recommend a pedicab, but know that due to ridiculous local laws, the pedicab drivers cannot, under any circumstances, give you anything resembling a tour as this violates the Charleston tour guide association rules.
This issue is currently making its way through the courts, but until it's settled, you can either choose the horse-and-buggy tours or a quick pedicab non-tour.
>> If you want to take a carriage tour, I recommend this one. <<
The City Market never sold slaves.
This is one of the biggest mix-ups I hear about Charleston attractions.
While slaves did sell their wares here, and they did shop here for their masters, there wasn't any human trafficking going on at this location.
That sordid portion of our history did occur elsewhere in our city in private auctions, near the Exchange Building, and in the actual slave market, and you can learn more about it at the Old Slave Mart Museum.
While the Slave Mart Museum provides a detailed look at this horrific chapter in Charleston, the City Market sells souvenirs, t-shirts, pictures, and sweetgrass basket.
Yes, they sound alike, but they are very different places.
Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. (The tour guides LOVE to get this wrong!)
PIN ME!
Upper King has been undergoing a revitalization over the last 15 years.
While this area (up to the 26 overpass) is safe during the day, be cautious about venturing away from the main thoroughfares at night.
The areas above Line Street--where the Ravenel bridge runs over downtown--can be volatile when it's dark, and tourists are easy targets for muggings.
During the day, these areas tend to be fine, but always use your best judgement.
As long as you stick to main thoroughfares on the upper peninsula, the chances of anything bad happening are low.
Lower King, East Bay, and Meeting Streets are all safe no matter the time of day, so strap on those walking shoes, grab your guidebook, and head out the door!
Get great views of Charleston from the top of the Ravenel Bridge.
The bridge has an awesome biking and walking path, and you can access it from downtown or Mount Pleasant.
Make sure to lock your car and stow valuables from sight (especially on the downtown side) when you leave to walk up the bridge.
Make time to wander.
From the Battery and Rainbow Row to Queen Street, Charleston is best enjoyed on foot.
Take your camera, wander the streets, and explore down the residential alleys.
While the South of Broad area houses the most expensive houses, you can find gorgeous architecture on everything from St. Phillip's Church to the houses on Tradd Street.
Want an even more suggestions on what to do in the Charleston area?
Check out my Discover Charleston digital visitors center!
Have you visited the Holy City? What else should I add to my first time visitors guide to Charleston SC?
