Southern Charm: Charleston for a weekend
You’re heading down south to the colorful land of southern charm, hanging ferns, and wrap around porches. Need some ideas of what to do on your weekend in Charleston? You’ve come to the right place.
STAY
Enjoy the drive into town along bright, palm tree lined streets as you smell the salt air. Relax and slow down, you’re in a southern state of mind now.
If you want a Hyatt property in a prime location, look no further than the Hyatt Renaissance History District. This hotel is walkable to most spots on King Street and a quick bike ride to the Bowery. It is connected to a Vivian Howard shop, Handy & Hot, which unlike her other restaurants, does not require a reservation.
DO
Another perk of staying at the Hyatt Renaissance is that you can use the complimentary bicycles to bike ride around town, which we happily took advantage of all weekend.
Spend a few hours biking around Charleston. This was a surprise highlight and by far one of my favorite activities. Take the bikes south to the waterfront and marvel at the historic homes along the way.
The roads (and drivers) are bike friendly. The speed limit is low so you should feel safe biking in the street.
Charleston is a city rich with history, from the architecture to the city’s role in United States’ history. You can see these houses by walking or biking around the southern part of Charleston (near the Bowery) and especially along the waterfront.
There’s a plethora of carriage tour options. I recommend a history tour in the afternoon through Old South Carriage Company, but you can also do a haunted carriage ride in the evening to learn more about the ghosts of Charleston.
Stroll down King Street and stop in the local shops for some shopping. There is no shortage of cute boutiques.
Need a good photo background?
One of my favorite areas of Charleston is Rainbow Row, a set of colorful houses by the waterfront. It’s a popular picture spot but the groups clear out quickly so just be patient and you’ll get the perfect shot.
EAT
Kick off your trip with an oyster happy hour at Darling Oyster.
This place gets crowded before 5, so be sure to make a reservation.
For a crowd pleasing dinner, go to MESU which has both sushi and tacos, and a party atmosphere (not pictured here because we were too busy with the tacos and sushi!)
End the evening at Republic Garden and Lounge, and maybe catch a glimpse of the Southern Charm cast.
Get a fancy brunch at Felix Cocktails et Cuisine, and you’ll feel like you’re in a Parisian cafe. Order the espresso martini because you’re on vacation.
I loved the ambiance, lighting, and blue accents in this adorable restaurant.
…and one more because I couldn’t stop taking photos of this interior.
Delaney Oyster House feels like dinner in an actual home, with a wrap around porch and all around cozy vibes. There’s also a great oyster selection, drink options, and caviar.
If you’re in the mood for authentic pastries, quiches or french macarons, stop at Café Framboise.
Don’t forget to swing by Hot & Handy for a coffee or snack. I recommend the savory empanadas. Check the hours, because this spot closes early and you don’t want to miss it.
DRINK
Get happy hour or post dinner drinks from The Cocktail Club: the inside is brick lined with leather couches, and there’s a back patio if you want some fresh air.
Treat yourself to a glass (or two) of champagne at the Hotel Bennett, and marvel at the pink and sparkly interior of Camellias. You’ll feel like you’re sipping on bubbles inside a chandelier.
End the night at Uptown Social, another Charleston staple with music and party vibes. It’s worth it to climb the many stairs to the back patio so you can enjoy that salty Charleston air, a tiki bar and mural for all my social butterflies.
COFFEE
Start your day with coffee or a seasonal latte from The Rise, a quaint shop with exposed brick and plants.
Another day, another coffee shop. Walk over to Caviar & Bananas for a morning beverage or breakfast sandwich.
If you need a smoothie or mid day caffeine boost, go to The Daily. This spot was highly recommended to me by a local and I especially enjoyed the seasonal smoothie options.