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Charming Charleston: Must-Do, Stay & Dine
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items Charleston is one of my favorite cities in the South, and this list is my honest roundup of what to do, where to stay, and where to eat. I've picked the tours, hotels, and restaurants I'd send my own friends to — so you can enjoy every minute of your...
Sections
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Tours
Hotels
Restaurants
Tours
The fun stuff! These are the tours and experiences I'd tell my friends to book in Charleston — from ghost tours to harbor cruises to history walks. If you're short on time, pick one or two from this section and you really can't go wrong.
Charleston is famous for its ghost stories, and this night-time walking tour through the historic district is the perfect way to experience them. Spooky, fun, and full of local history — I'd definitely add this to your evening plans.
Charleston's Pleasing Terrors Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour
There's nothing like seeing Charleston from the water! This private luxury sailing charter is such a special experience — BYOB, dolphins, and gorgeous harbor views. Perfect for a romantic evening or a fun outing with friends.
Private Luxury Sailing Charters, BYOB & Dolphins
Learn to make cocktails in a secret speakeasy — yes please! This class is such a fun night out, and you'll pick up some history along with your new bartending skills. Great for couples or groups.
Sip History in a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class
A sunset cruise on Charleston Harbor is pure magic — the skyline at dusk is gorgeous. I'd book this for a romantic evening or just a relaxing way to end the day.
Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise
If you love the outdoors, this 2-hour guided kayak eco tour is such a great way to see Charleston's natural beauty. Paddling through the serene waterways is peaceful and fun — no experience needed!
2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston
One of my favorite ways to explore a new city! This walking food tour lets you taste Charleston's best bites while learning the stories behind them. Come hungry — you won't regret it.
Charleston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Boone Hall Plantation is one of the most iconic spots near Charleston — beautiful grounds and deep Southern history. The all-access ticket lets you explore it fully. A must for history lovers.
Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket
The best way to get to know Charleston! This guided walking tour takes you through the historic streets with stories you won't find on your own. I'd do this early in your trip to get your bearings.
Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour
Hotels
Where to stay in Charleston! I've rounded up my favorite hotel picks — from historic luxury to chic boutiques. There's something here for every kind of trip, so pick the one that fits your vibe.
A Charleston classic — The Charleston Place brings luxury and Southern charm together in the heart of the historic district. Elegant rooms, great service, and a perfect location for exploring.
The Charleston Place
The Dewberry is such a stunner — a beautifully restored mid-century building with refined, modern elegance. If you love design-forward hotels, you'll adore this one.
The Dewberry Charleston
Hotel Bennett is pure luxury — sophisticated, elegant, and right in the historic district. This is the splurge pick for a special Charleston getaway.
Hotel Bennett
The Palmetto Hotel is a charming spot with warm Southern hospitality. Comfortable, stylish, and perfectly located — a great all-around pick for your Charleston stay.
The Palmetto Hotel, Charleston
The Pinch is such a fun boutique hotel — modern comfort meets historic charm. I love the personality here. A great pick if you want something with character.
The Pinch Charleston
Hotel Emeline is effortlessly cool — sophisticated, stylish, and full of character. A fantastic boutique pick in the heart of Charleston.
Hotel Emeline, Charleston, USA
The Mills House is a historic beauty — classic Southern grace with all the modern comforts. If you want that iconic Charleston hotel experience, this is it.
Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton, Charleston, USA
Restaurants
Let's talk food! Charleston's dining scene is incredible — from Lowcountry classics to creative new spots. These are my top restaurant picks for your trip.
A Charleston seafood tradition! Hyman's is famous for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood and warm Southern hospitality. A fun, classic spot the whole family will love.
Hyman's Seafood
BBQ lovers, this is your spot — Rodney Scott's whole hog BBQ is cooked over wood fire for that perfect smoky flavor. Tender pulled pork, savory sides, homemade sauces... come hungry!
Rodney Scott's Whole Hog BBQ
Wood-fired pizza + natural wine = my kind of night! Renzo is trendy, relaxed, and the pizzas are fantastic. A great casual dinner pick in Charleston.
Renzo Wood-Fired Pizza & Natural Wine
Bintu Atelier is such a gem — creative global flavors with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish modern space. If you want something a little different and memorable, book this one.
HOME | Bintu Atelier
Vern's puts a fun, modern twist on Southern comfort food — lively atmosphere, great service, and dishes made with local ingredients. A delicious night out!
Vern's
The Ordinary is a Charleston standout — upscale but approachable seafood in a gorgeous restored historic building. Perfect for a special night out.
The Ordinary