After visiting Charleston, South Carolina this year for an extended amount of time I completely fell in love with this storybook town and moved here full time! If I could describe what many call the “Holy City”, I would say that it’s a warm hug… in city form. I’ve adventured out to the best of the best local spots and sightseeing experiences to share all of the things you should do on your next visit. If you’re planning your next trip to one of the oldest cities in America, here is your 2023 Charleston Travel Guide!

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city steeped in history and charm. With its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and picturesque waterfront, it’s no wonder that Charleston is often ranked as one of the most beautiful cities in the United States. In this travel guide, we’ll explore some of the top things to see, eat, and do in Charleston, from historic landmarks to delicious food and drinks.

Coffee

Every good trip starts out with a good cup of joe. Charleston, South Carolina, is home to a vibrant coffee scene with plenty of cozy cafes and stylish coffee shops to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a place to work, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a delicious cup of coffee, here are some of the top coffee shops to visit in Charleston.

1. Island Provisions – Situated in downtown Charleston, this cute coffee shop serves up yummy coffee and even better bites. If you’re easing into the weekend they also have stiff alcoholic drinks to get your post-work buzz going.
2. Harken Cafe – In the heart of downtown, this café whips up a mean coffee and even better pastries! The aesthetic in this cute and quaint old Charleston home makes you want to cozy up and bring a book and stay awhile… or steal inspiration from their interior design choices.
3. Black Tap Coffee – With three locations in downtown Charleston, Black Tap Coffee is a local favorite for its expertly brewed coffee and minimalist, industrial-chic decor. Try their signature nitro cold brew or pour-over coffee for a truly special coffee experience.
4. The Daily – Located in the Charleston City Market, The Daily is a popular spot for breakfast, brunch, and of course, coffee. Their house-made pastries and breakfast sandwiches are a must-try, and their coffee drinks are top-notch as well.
5. Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer – Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer is a unique coffee shop that also serves a rotating selection of craft beer on tap. Their outdoor patio is a lovely spot to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee, and they often have live music and other events.
6. Vintage Coffee Cafe – Vintage Coffee Cafe is a cozy cafe located in the trendy Avondale neighborhood of Charleston. They offer a wide selection of coffee drinks, as well as breakfast and lunch items like avocado toast and quiche.

These are just a few of the many great coffee shops to visit in Charleston. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or simply looking for a cozy spot to relax, you’re sure to find something you love in this charming southern city.

Brunch

Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its delicious food scene, and brunch is no exception. From classic Southern dishes to innovative takes on breakfast favorites, here are some of the top brunch spots to check out in Charleston.

1. The Obstinate Daughter – Located on Sullivan’s Island, The Obstinate Daughter is a popular brunch spot known for its creative takes on classic brunch dishes. Try the avocado toast with crab or the breakfast pizza for a truly unique brunch experience.
2. Millers All Day – Millers All Day is a stylish diner located in downtown Charleston that serves breakfast all day long. Try the blueberry pancakes or the breakfast sandwich for a delicious and satisfying brunch.
3. 82 Queen – 82 Queen is a historic restaurant located in Charleston’s French Quarter that serves up traditional Lowcountry cuisine with a twist. For brunch, try the shrimp and grits or the crab cake benedict.
4. Poe’s Tavern – Sullivans Island – Very chill and laid back spot that is directly across the street from the beach. If you’re having a beach day and want brunch before or after, this is a great spot!

These are just a few of the many great brunch spots to check out in Charleston. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Southern fare or something a bit more creative, you’re sure to find something delicious in this charming southern city.

Dinner

Charleston, South Carolina, is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of culinary experiences. From traditional Southern fare to innovative fine dining, here are some of the top dinner spots to check out in Charleston.

1. Husk – Husk is a popular restaurant in Charleston known for its farm-to-table approach and Southern cuisine. The menu changes daily based on what’s in season and available, but you can expect delicious dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and BBQ pork. They also have a location in my old stomping grounds in Nashville, TN! The chef has a lot of amazing spots that I’ve tried and they’ve never failed me.
2. High Cotton – The perfect blend of upscale (without being too upscale) and fine dining. The food is amazing. I quite literally did a happy dance upon eating the crab cake. If you know me, when food is bomb, the dance comes out. We enjoyed the atmosphere filled with live music, good vibes, and perfect service. One of my favorite spots in town!
3. Lewis Barbecue – If you’re wanting something a little more laid back, Lewis is the perfect spot! I wouldn’t have expected Charleston, South Carolina to have the best BBQ I’ve ever had, but they beat my expectations. You cannot go wrong with anything on their menu. Trust me when I say the nachos will change your life.
4. Leon’s Oyster Shop – A quintessential Charleston spot, Leon’s serves up a comfy atmosphere with a perfect side of seafood and chicken plates. Charleston is known for their oysters, and Leon’s is where locals and tourists alike stop for their fix. I personally love their po boys for dinner! Their cocktails are also to die for.

5. Maya’s – If seafood isn’t your vibe, Maya’s is a delicious hispanic fare right in the middle of downtown. The ambiance is fun and is a great place for groups!

6. 167 Raw – I hesitated putting 167 on the list because to be quite honest…. it is a bitch getting into. For whatever reason, they don’t take reservations. So, you will likely wait 1-3 hours for a table. But it is totally worth it. Their food is ah-maz-ing and worthwhile. As soon as you get to King St. put your name in and shop around while you wait, it’ll fly by!

7. Longboard – Sullivans Island – For a beachy vibe, Longboard is one of my favorite spots on the island. Situated right in Sullivans island, Longboard has boat-to-table seafood and cocktails that will sit in your memory forever. It’s that good! The decor is adorable here and the perfect coastal vibe.

Drinks

Charleston, South Carolina, has a thriving bar scene with a wide variety of options for anyone looking for a drink. From craft cocktails to local beers, here are some of the top places to grab a drink in Charleston.

1. Edmund’s Oast – Edmund’s Oast is a brewery and taproom that specializes in craft beers and artisanal charcuterie. They have a rotating selection of beers on tap, as well as a menu of snacks and small plates to pair with your drink.
2. The Rooftop Bar at The Vendue – The Rooftop Bar at The Vendue is located in downtown Charleston and offers stunning views of the city skyline. They have a full bar and a menu of small plates, making it the perfect spot for a drink and a snack.
3. The Citrus Club Rooftop – The perfect views overlooking all of Charleston! Be sure to get a reservation to save a seat – they get booked up fast. Wonderful cocktails.
4. Elévé Rooftop – Outside of all of the hustle and bustle of downtown, so it’s a stress-free spot to get into without the crowds or parking hassles! Great cocktails and food.

Things to do

Historic Landmarks

Charleston is known for its rich history, and there are plenty of historic landmarks to explore in the city. One must-visit spot is the Battery, a historic park at the southern tip of the Charleston peninsula. Here, you’ll find beautiful views of the harbor and the iconic Rainbow Row, a row of colorful houses that are a popular spot for photos.

Another must-see landmark is Fort Sumter National Monument, which marks the site where the Civil War began. You can take a ferry from downtown Charleston to visit the fort and learn more about the history of this important moment in American history.

The Angel Oak Tree is estimated to be one of the oldest living trees in America, ranging from 400-500 years old. It is MASSIVE and truly a sight to see while visiting!

Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens at Middleton Place, a historic plantation located about 15 miles from downtown Charleston.

The Charleston staple that you have to take a walk by before leaving is the infamous Rainbow Row downtown. These beautiful homes are in the brightest rainbow colors and aren’t far from the popular Pineapple Fountain so you can knock out two visits in one walk!

Outdoor Activities

Charleston, South Carolina, is a beautiful coastal city with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. From stunning beaches to historic parks, here are some of the top outdoor activities to enjoy in Charleston.

Walk the Ravenel Bridge and see the city above the water. The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is a stunning suspension bridge that spans the Cooper River and offers incredible views of the city skyline. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the pedestrian and bike lane for a unique perspective of Charleston.

Go on a Boat Tour – Charleston’s waterways offer plenty of opportunities for a scenic boat tour. Take a harbor tour or a sunset cruise to see the city from a different perspective.

Cypress Gardens – if you’re a romantic movie lover, Charleston is the perfect place to be. The infamous movie The Notebook has many scenes filmed right there. The dreamy rowboat scene was located at Cypress Gardens.

Best Beaches

Finally, no trip to Charleston would be complete without a visit to the beach. The local’s favorite and “cool” beach spot to go to is without a doubt Sullivans Island. You’ll find many mentions of the famous poet, Edgar Allen Poe there, as he lived there for a short period of time.

Folly Beach, located about 12 miles from downtown Charleston, is a popular spot for surfing and sunbathing.

If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, head to Isle of Palms, located about 25 minutes from downtown Charleston.

In conclusion, Charleston is a city that offers something for everyone. From historic landmarks to delicious food and drinks, outdoor activities, and beautiful beaches, Charleston is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the southeastern United States. You may fall in love as much as I did and move here full time!

Check out additional travel guides for Nashville, 30A, New York and more here!