My boyfriend and I went on an impromptu getaway to Charleston last weekend and it was the most fun! before so I was a little worried. I thought maybe we’d get a little overwhelmed because we were only staying the weekend but it was actually pretty damn fun.
It’s a small town so a weekend in the city is perfect. I should note: we didn’t actually plan this weekend. We wanted a fun weekend in a place neither of us had been to. We weren’t looking to do/see anything in particular other than eat, drink, and have fun.
One thing I always do before I go somewhere is make a list on Foursquare. I’m not the person to plan a detailed itinerary. For Italy, I only planned what cities I wanted to visit. There’s so much to do and you can’t plan what you feel like doing! I’d rather just do the things I’m really into or visit any trending spots in the area and then keep the places I actually want to see written down. I also love asking locals where I should or shouldn’t go so I can just or add/take off my list. Here is my list if you’re on Foursquare. If you’re not, download it because it makes traveling so much easier!
MY CHARLESTON LIST ON FOURSQUARE
Where to stay:
Mills House: We stayed here. The location was fantastic we were in the middle of everything. We walked almost everywhere and were next to all the shops on King Street and next to the restaurants we were most excited about! Truthfully, we didn’t have the best experience but by no means would I not recommend this place. There is also a wine bar right around the corner, Bin 152, which was indubitably our favorite!
Grand Bohemian – We went up to the roof top bar, which is amazing by the way, and didn’t want to leave! It was just so fun! I think if we were to do it again, which we will, this might be it. It’s in the historic district so it’s a pretty easy walk to get wherever you need to be by foot.
Zero George – This is a smaller hotel and I have heard such good things! It is a beautiful inn located in the center of Charleston. When I looked into this one it was fully book for the weekend. They have free rental bikes which I was something I really wanted to do!
The Restoration – Another beautiful hotel in Charleston. It really has that southern feel to it, filled with art and has several shops surrounding the compound.
Airbnb – All the houses and apartments around the area are beautiful and I’m sure finding an Airbnb would be just as beautiful! If I did it again with a few girlfriends I think I’d try this instead.
Food and Drinks:
- Bin 152 – 152 King Street. Possibly our favorite bar. We walked over our first night. They have wine, beer, charcuterie and cheese. The bartenders are super friendly (you should sit at the bar) and the vibe is very chill.
- Eleve – A fun rooftop bar located at the Grand Bohemian. We had a really great time here. the bartender was really nice, the outdoor area is cute, and the environment was just really fun!
- Husk – 76 Queen St. For South Southern/Soul Food. Phenomenal! We had this for dinner.
- Poogan’s Porch – 72 Queen St. Delicious brunch spot. Everything is good but oh my god the Mac & Cheese!
- Swig & Swine – 1217 Savanah Hwy. We went to a few spots but everyone told us this was possibly the best out of all of them.
- Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits – 476 1/2 King St. Pretty good biscuits! There was a line but worth it. We got 6 of the most popular and shared them.
- Xiao Bao Biscuit – 224 Rutledge Ave. I realllyyyy wanted to try this place. Everyone recommended this one but it’s closed on Sundays so make sure to visit this place first. It is Vietnamese food. The bartender at Bin 152 and said it was a must!
- Chez Nous – 6 Payne Court French restaurant in Cannonborough – Elliotborough
- Butcher & Bee – 1085 Morrison Dr. American restaurant in East Central, best sandwiches,
- The Ordinary – 544 King St. For good seafood
- Obstirate Daughter – 2062 Middle St. (Sullivans Island)
- F.I.G – 232 Meeting St.
City Spots:
Bike around South of Broad: I really wanted to rent a bike to ride around the city but who am I kidding, we were drinking all day Saturday. It would have been a disaster. If I were staying longer (we arrived late Friday and left Sunday evening) then this would have been a viable option and something I definitely plan on doing on my next trip.
Rainbow Row – located along East Bay Street, rainbow row is a street of rainbow colored building directly on the riverfront of Cooper River. It is possibly the most picturesque part of town in Charleston and I’d definitely suggest taking a walk around the area.
White Point Garden – We didn’t make it here but the park looks beautiful! I would definitely recommend skipping out on Waterfront Park and visiting this park instead.
Waterfront Park – We got a bunch of recommendations to see the park but it’s pretty crowded. It’s nice to just walk around and make your way to Rainbow Row.
King Street – Wake up a little early if you plan on walking on King Street. We grabbed a bite to eat, drink and visited a few stores in the morning (early afternoon) and it was pretty empty. The streets get pretty packed later in the day because of tourists and college students so I’d recommend doing that earlier in the day.
Charleston City Market – Located in downtown Charleston. Its a pretty fun market to visit! The things they sell are really unique and you and made my local artisans. It’s the perfect place to bring back a souvenir for family or friends.
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