Charleston, South Carolina is a treat for the senses. From the balmy breeze blowing through the old oak trees and swaying the Spanish moss, to the cobblestone streets and the architecture of historic homes—plus, of course, the unparalleled food scene—this Lowcountry hotspot will always delight. Best of all, Charleston exudes the charm and community feel of a small town, with much more to offer than first meets the eye.
Here, find ’s guide to the best places to stay, eat, and shop in this quintessential Southern town. Where to Stay The Charleston Place is an iconic landmark within downtown Charleston. Boasting 434 rooms, six unique options for dining or drinking, boutique retail shops, a world-class spa and fitness center, and a rooftop pool, the property has it all—yet somehow never feels impersonal.
The team has luxury hospitality down to a science and will cater to your every need, so it comes highly recommended for travelers or families who can be a little particular and appreciate all the bells and whistles. Originally built in 1804, the boutique hotel Zero George consists of a series of restored historic residences and two carriage houses, preserving the architecture that is so unique to Charleston while also featuring all of the modern amenities you might need. The hotel features 16 guest rooms and suites surrounding a gorgeous private garden courtyard, and offers complimentary bikes, a fabulous restaurant, and even on-site cooking classes.
It feels a little like staying at the home of a fancy aunt (who really minds her Ps and Qs when hosting). Formerly the L. Mendel Rivers Federal Building, The Dewberry embodies founder John Dewberry’s vision of “Southern Reimagined” hospitality—and combined with the building’s mid-century modern origin, it’s a study in top-tier design.
Chic amenities include the Saks Fifth Avenue Club, luxury yachting with Barton & Gray, and an in-house shop that offers a curated selection of personal and home objets d’art. Last but certainly not least, their eighth-floor terrace, the Citrus Club, is not to be missed. As the highest rooftop in Charleston, it fills up quickly and is first come first serve, so get there early—or be ready to wait.
Minutes from downtown Charleston, The Post House is a quaint seven-bedroom inn in the heart of the historic Old Village neighborhood in Mount Pleasant, SC. The vibe is a contemporary take on a seaside old English pub (with a tavern to boot). We recommend this for the traveler who wants to stay off the beaten path, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Bonus points: it’s only a 10-minute drive to Sullivan’s Island beach. Where to Eat Since opening in 2003, FIG (Food is Good) has become one of the Southeast’s top culinary destinations, renowned for its dishes made with local ingredients that change seasonally. The service is also top-notch, with knowledgeable and courteous staff.
It comes highly recommended for a celebratory dinner, or simply for slipping in to enjoy creative libations at the bar. The must-order dish? Ricotta gnocchi. Founded in 2018 by Chef James London, a Charleston native, Chubby Fish has stolen the city’s heart.
Even after six years, the hype has not died down and people come from near and far to line up at 4:30 p.m. to get a reservation (note: it is walk-in only).
And we don’t blame them: Chubby Fish partners with local fishermen and farmers to feature the very best fresh catches and seasonal ingredients. The menu is inventive, fresh, and yet somehow still feels like home. An ode to the Mediterranean shores of Italy, expect fresh seafood paired with Italian classics such as handmade pasta, mortadella, burrata, pork Milanese—the list goes on.
The Candele pasta with anchovies and lemon is the most interesting noodle, while the location is also extremely spacious which—something a rarity in Charleston, making it a great choice for a group. (There’s also a full bar with seating if you’re just popping in as a couple.) Located within the charming Elliotborough neighborhood, Vern’s feels like one of those hidden city gems you just so happened to stumble upon and can’t stop telling all your friends about.
Opened by husband-and-wife duo, Daniel “Dano” and Bethany Heinze and named in honor of Chef Dano’s grandfather. The menu showcases modern American cuisine based upon seasonality, with daily specials and delicious organic and biodynamic wines. From the creators of FIG, The Ordinary is a high-end seafood hall housed in a historic Charleston bank, where you can enjoy fresh local seafood supporting regional producers in a vibrant atmosphere.
Feeling extravagant? Go for a seafood tower or caviar service. And as for drinks, we particularly love their house martini and frozen limonada. Celebrating a decade in business this July, 167Raw is a Charleston staple.
A New England-style oyster bar with outstanding seafood and classics like lobster rolls, and our favorite, the tuna burger. It is first come, first serve, so be ready to wait. (You can also check out their sister restaurant around the corner, , for a drink to pass the time.
) Meaning “our home” in French, Chez Nous offers a cozy, romantic dining experience spanning two floors of a classic Charleston single. It’s also perfect for date night, as groups larger than four can only make a reservation after 9 p.m.
The menu changes daily, offering two appetizers, two entreés, and two desserts featuring food and wine from southern France, northern Italy, and northern Spain. Check their Instagram in the morning for the menu, which is handwritten daily by Chef Jill Mathias. Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop is a classic Southern joint serving up—you guessed it!—fried chicken and oysters.
Highlights include the char-grilled oysters, the Siam salad, the frozen G&Ts, and of course, the (fried) chicken sandwich with a side of scalloped potatoes—it’s all about comfort food in a laid-back environment. Leon’s is walk-in only, except for groups over six, and is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner—but the best part? The kitchen doesn’t close throughout the day, so whenever you are craving it, it’s there. A laid-back smokehouse featuring Texas-style BBQ, Lewis is the perfect stop for a casual lunch or dinner.
Hailed as one of the best BBQ spots in the country with legendary brisket, it’s a must-try with a full bar and an extensive range of sides too. Sullivan’s Fish Camp has graced the Sullivan’s Island neighborhood since 1988—but 30 years later, Basic Projects (also of Post House Inn and ) revived the space while keeping it true to its roots with nautical decor, local seafood, and fruity cocktails. It’s he ultimate pre or post-beach meal.
Where to Shop Known for its custom charm jewelry, Hart is a boutique jewelry brand founded in Charleston in 2016 by two sisters. They opened their flagship store downtown in 2021, which features beautiful marble “charm bars” where shoppers can create personalized charm necklaces or bracelets on the spot with the help of a Hart team member. The charms range from classic initials, zodiacs, and playful pieces like a flying pig or a martini, to charms to help channel manifestation.
The pieces were recently spotted on model Gigi Hadid, so hop on board. With nearly 10,000 square feet on Charleston’s bustling King Street, Hampden is the ultimate Southern destination for unique designer ready-to-wear, shoes, handbags, and accessories. Owner Stacy Smallwood has her finger on the pulse of the fashion industry and features up-and-coming designers alongside some of the greats, earning her a loyal clientele both locally and across the country.
A newcomer to the Charleston shopping scene, but sure to be a favorite, Wentworth just opened in June by award-winning event planner and tastemaker Gregory Blake Sams. Inspired by GBS eye for design, the store offers a curated collection of new, vintage, and antique home and entertaining goods. Like the one-of-a-kind objects inside, the space itself is also beautifully done and a treat to visit.
The oldest family-owned jewelry store in Charleston, Croghan’s has been a part of the community for over 100 years. It truly is a treasure trove of estate, antique, new, and custom pieces that are meant to be cherished now and into the future. The store offers an array of services to its loyal clientele, from the design studio and workshop on the second floor, to access to four bench jewelers and four certified gemologists.
For all your jewelry needs, the Croghan family continues to serve beautiful workmanship. Susan Hull Walker founded Ibu in 2014 with the goal of doing more than just opening another store, but acting as a social enterprise by collaborating with global women artisans. Ibu collaborates with almost 100 female artisan groups in 50 different countries, providing living wages, expanding markets, and helping build their capacity for success with structural enhancements such as workspace and training.
Located on the second floor of a traditional Charleston home on King Street, the Ibu flagship showroom also serves as the headquarters of its global operation. What to Do The southernmost tip of the Charleston peninsula known as the Battery, is a necessary stop while visiting, albeit one of the more touristy as well. You can stroll or bike along the historic seawall and take in all of Charleston harbor, while also enjoying the picturesque neighborhood and ogling at the historic mansions.
It includes Rainbow Row, the lineup of brightly colored homes, and the White Point Garden, filled with live oaks. If you want to do a little exploring outside of downtown or hit the beach—definitely check out Sullivan’s Island which is a quick drive over the infamous Ravenel Bridge. Known for its pristine beaches, small-town vibe, and great food, it's the perfect day trip.
Opening its doors last summer, in June 2023, the IAAM has been an ongoing project since 2000. It is one of the newest platforms in the nation to champion and honor authentic storytelling of the history, culture, and impact of the African American journey on the world and specifically, the connection to Charleston. In addition to nine galleries, the African Ancestors Memorial Garden surrounds the museum grounds, which reflects on the historic significance of Gadsden’s Wharf, the sacred site where the museum is located.
The Gibbes Museum, Charleston's sole art museum, boasts a diverse collection of American art spanning 350 years, complemented by rotating exhibitions and a visiting artist residency program. The museum endeavors to link the city and region's artistic heritage and a vibrant contemporary art scene with a global perspective. Support the local communities of farmers, crafters, artisans, and food businesses at the Charleston Farmers Market which takes place every Saturday from 8 a.
m. to 2 p.m.
in Marion Square, the heart of Charleston’s Historic District, making it a perfect weekend activity. Some of my personal favorites are Lowcountry Lemonade, Rio Bertolini’s for fresh pasta, and Moonrise Loaf Bakery for sourdough bagels—as well as stocking up on in-season veggies from all the farm stands..
