Getaway with Shay: Charleston

Lifestyle

Oct 6

After our Savannah trip, we headed 2 hours away to Charleston! We found Charleston to be like Savannah’s bougie older sister who won’t let you borrow her clothes, but we loved the energetic city vibe. The Southern cuisine was incredible here and we loved being around such a historic place. Keep reading to see what we found to do in Charleston and add it to your itinerary when you visit!

Things to Eat

Leon’s Poultry & Oyster Shop - A classic spot to get some fresh oysters, we loved the atmosphere and vibe!
Taco Boy - A great cantina style spot with vegan options like the tempura avocado taco
Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar - Step off of King Street and into a French bistro and enjoy some watermelon gelatto on a sweltering Southern day
Jeni’s Ice Cream - This place is world-renowned for a reason, I know Evan loved the chocolate ones!
Miller’s All Day - The perfect spot for a great brunch featuring go to Southern plates like cheesy grits and biscuits and gravy
Sugar Bakeshop - The most aesthetic small batch bakery ever, but I especially loved the boozy bourbon and peach popsicle since it was so hot out!
Poe’s Tavern - Take a drive to Sullivan’s Island and learn about how Poe was actually stationed in South Carolina before the Civil War and also enjoy a crab cake burger while you’re at it.

Things to Drink

Tavern on Rainbow Row - Known for being the oldest tavern in America serving the area since 1686! Step inside the space to see hard to find bottles and spirits.
The Gin Joint - This place has big Casablanca vibes and the drinks are great, but we were obsessed with the whipped bone marrow, definitely order that when you go!
Second State Coffee - The space is minimal and clean and the coffee is great! Grab a cup and wander around the old Charleston jail nearby, it’s amazing how close history is here!
Neon Tiger - If you like Stranger Things, this is the place for you. Synth-ish 80s music plays while you can enjoy a menu that’s heavily plant-based and great drinks.
Bay Street Biergarten - This place is a sweet escape from the city, and the outdoor space is beautiful. They also have the most amazing pina colada IPA in a can, you have to try it!
The Rooftop - There’s nothing like sipping on some cold drinks and watching boats on the water from a rooftop. This place is apart of the Vendue hotel but you can visit even if you aren’t a guest.
Harken Cafe - This whimsical and ethereal space will make you want to linger a little longer to sip on your latte and snack on your baguette.

Things to Do

Magnolia Plantation - I think if you’re going to visit the South you should visit a plantation to really understand the history of the region. I recommend doing the Slave House tour and then the House tour.
King Street - If you love shopping, I’m sure you could spend an entire day on King Street! From touristy shops to Anthropologie and Lululemon, there’s something for everyone.
Waterfront Park and Pineapple Fountain - Stroll along the water at this park and enjoy the famous Pineapple Fountain! We were so surprised to see people wading in the water but with the heat index I was honestly a little jealous!
French Huguenot Church - This stunning light pink structure stands out even amongst the rows and rows of colorful buildings in Charleston. The church was built in 1845 and actually has services in French once a year.
Charleston City Market - If you love farmers’ markets and art fairs, this is the place for you. Extending over four city blocks and open everyday except Christmas, the market features local vendors and makers.
Rainbow Row - This is probably the most Instagrammed spot in Charleston, and the street is known for it’s colorful structures along East Bay Street.
Fort Sumter - This is the spot where the first shot of the Civil War rang out. Explore the fort and learn more about it’s history at this National Park site by taking a ferry out to the landmark.
Sullivan’s Island - If you want a place to relax after all the shopping on King Street, Sullivan’s Island is it! The beaches are beautiful and peaceful, and a great way to round out your Charleston trip.