Charleston, SC Day

Charleston, South Carolina is a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. With its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and historic landmarks, it’s no wonder that Charleston is consistently ranked as one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. If you’re planning a visit to Charleston, here’s a quick guide to a day as a tourist in this beautiful Southern city.

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Start your day with breakfast at Vicious Biscuit. They serve other items than biscuits, but the fluffy carbs are the big draw here. Prepare to feel the need for a nap after indulging in a fried chicken biscuit the size of your head, but your next venture will be sure to burn those calories quick. Oh and there’s a biscuit combo for everyone.

After breakfast, take a stroll down King Street, Charleston’s premier shopping district. Browse the many boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries that line the street, and be sure to stop by the historic Charleston City Market, where local vendors sell everything from sweetgrass baskets to handmade jewelry.

For lunch, head to Husk, a celebrated restaurant that’s been called one of the best in the country. Centrally located in historic downtown Charleston, Husk transforms the essence of Southern food. Husk reinterprets the bounty of the surrounding area, exploring an ingredient-driven cuisine that begins in the rediscovery of heirloom products and redefines what it means to cook and eat in the South. At Husk, there are some rules about what can go on the plate. If it doesn’t come from the South, it’s not coming through the door. The resulting cuisine “is not about rediscovering Southern cooking but exploring the reality of Southern food.” This modern approach results in playful dishes such as Carolina Gold Crab Rice, Benton’s Bacon, Tomato Jam and Crab Roe, to new classics such as South Carolina Shrimp and Choppee Okra Stew with Carolina Gold Rice and Flowering Basil, Kentuckyaki Glazed Pig’s Ear Lettuce Wraps with Sweet Vinegar Cucumber and Red Onion and Southern Fried Chicken Skins with Pimento Cheese “Ranch” and Scallions.

After lunch, take a guided tour of the historic district, which includes sites like the Charleston Battery, Rainbow Row, and the Nathaniel Russell House. Learn about the city’s rich history, from its role in the Civil War to its thriving arts and culture scene.

In the evening, head to the Charleston City Marina for a sunset sail on the Schooner Pride, a classic 84-foot tall ship that offers breathtaking views of the harbor and the city skyline. Sip a glass of champagne as you watch the sun dip below the horizon, and marvel at the beauty of this historic city.

Finish off your day with dinner at FIG, another acclaimed restaurant that’s known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes. The staff is passionate and polite. The room is simple and modern. Try the pan-seared local triggerfish or the wood-grilled pork chop with creamy grits. The menu is the heart and soul of the restaurant. It will change often, fluctuating with the seasons and availability of product. Behind the bar you’ll find playful libations being stirred and shaken. The bartenders serve up offerings ranging from creative originals to timeless standards, fizzy tipples to serious sippers.

End the night with a stroll through the French Quarter, one of Charleston’s most picturesque neighborhoods, before heading back to your hotel.

Charleston is a city that’s full of Southern charm, history, and hospitality. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in this beautiful Southern gem.