weekend cruises charleston sc

• Cruise From

Charleston, SC

• Carnival Sunshine

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Cruises out of Charleston are a great idea for foodies and anyone who loves American history. Give in to the genteel feel of the old South on Carnival cruises from the beautiful port of Charleston, South Carolina. This is a gracious city of antebellum 18th- and 19th-century houses and sprawling plantations, easy to appreciate from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage. The city’s unique Lowcountry cuisine and dozens of delicious restaurants make it a popular southern foodie destination. Enjoy warm southern hospitality and a breezy waterfront as you prepare to depart on your cruise from Charleston.

• Set foot where English settlers first touched land.
• Buy a sweetgrass basket to use aboard your Carnival cruise from Charleston.
• Tuck into Lowcountry-style shrimp and grits at a downtown restaurant. 
• Hop on a horse-drawn carriage for a slow-paced tour of the Historic District.

See it all from Charleston.

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Find the best cruise to charleston, what are the best cruises from charleston.

The best cruises out of Charleston, SC offer passengers an unforgettable boating adventure into the Caribbean. It's a main port of call for Carnival Cruise Line , with passengers on cruises leaving from Charleston typically boarding the Carnival Sunshine or the Carnival Ecstasy on their way to the Bahamas . In ports of call like Nassau and Freeport, passengers can enjoy some of the most beautiful corners of the Caribbean Sea.

How can I find a cheap Charleston cruise?

Travelers love cruises out of Charleston because (especially compared to other ports of origin) the prices tend to be exceptionally reasonable. Passengers can find cheap cruises out of Charleston by looking for travel times in off-seasons, like November or February. Another option to find the cheapest deals for cruises out of Charleston in 2024 is to look for shorter travel times. For example, a 4-day cruise from Charleston to the Caribbean in February may be available for under $300 per passenger. You might even be able to get a last-minute cruise deal on your trip from Charleston.

What cruise lines operate from Charleston?

There are three main cruise lines out of Charleston: Carnival, American, and Silversea. A Carnival cruise from Charleston is the most common option; Carnival operates three ships in this port, all with regular trips to the Bahamas. American Cruise Lines traverses the US coastline and major rivers with smaller ships. Finally, the Monaco-based Silversea Cruises offers fewer trips to a wide range of islands in the Caribbean Sea. Generally speaking, Charleston cruise lines are known for a short and convenient boarding process at the cruise terminal that all passengers can benefit from. Be sure to check out last-minute cruises from Charleston if you are in the mood for an unplanned vacation.

How can I find good deals on cruises from Charleston?

When browsing cruise deals from Charleston on Expedia, all discounts are marked with a small green box right above the price per passenger. That allows you to see how much you could save when booking the voyage. But looking for cruise deals out of Charleston also means looking beyond the sticker price. For example, the Bahamas are generally known to be a lower price than other Caribbean destinations like Bermuda but more expensive than alternatives like Cuba, which is important to keep in mind as you calculate the overall cost of the cruise. You can also sort by price to see which cruise ships leaving from Charleston offer the best deals during your travel window.

What to look out for when you book your Charleston cruise?

Decide what type of voyage you're looking for, from family cruises out of Charleston to a romantic or a party cruise. With that goal in mind, you can decide on the ship that matches your preference. For example, the Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Sunrise, two of the most common cruise ships out of Charleston, offer family-friendly fun including top deck waterslides along with vibrant nightlife at sea in their pubs and bars. Ships from other cruise lines, like the Queen Mary 2 or Carnival's Mardi Gras , offer more refined or adult fun-heavy experiences, respectively. The length of your vacation also matters. You cannot book a 2 nights or 3 nights cruise from Charleston, as all voyages begin with 4 night minimums. However, your trip can span a weekend cruise from Charleston, extending into the next week.

Where are the best places to go to on a cruise from Charleston?

As the most popular cruise line from Charleston, Carnival offers a regular cruise from Charleston to the Bahamas, as well as a semi-regular cruise that visits other ports of call in the Caribbean. The best cruises out of Charleston steer towards Nassau first, where passengers can enjoy historical British colonial buildings along with gorgeous beaches and coral reefs that are ideal for snorkeling. On the occasional 10 day cruises leaving out of Charleston, travelers can also go beyond the Bahamas, enjoying their time on deck along with ports of call in St. Thomas, Antigua, Saint Kitts, Philipsburg, and San Juan. Regardless of the length of destination passengers choose, they'll enjoy an unforgettable adventure on the cruise ship from Charleston into the beauty and mystery of the Caribbean Sea and its islands.

How to book a cruise out of Charleston on Expedia?

If you’re looking for a Charleston cruise in 2024, you can browse our pre-selected deals or just set your destination to the South Carolinian port city and pick your preferred cruise days as well as how many passengers you are looking to book. From there, you can narrow down how long you'd like your adventure at sea to be. The results are then filterable by cruise line, Charleston cruise ships and what type of cabin you're looking for once aboard. Before the ship lifts its anchor for your voyage, you'll also be able to book your stay in the city before and after the cruise if you want to explore the cityscape and coastline of Charleston historic side.

How can I find last-minute cruise deals from Charleston?

If you're looking for great last-minute Charleston cruise deals, booking shortly before you're looking to set sail can reduce the price of the cruise. When browsing on Expedia, enter a planned departure date that's close to the current date. The results you get show the discount in the results of cruises departing from Charleston during that time frame. You can also sort your search results by either the earliest departure date or lowest price to ensure you get the best cruise deals in Charleston.

Do you need a passport to cruise from Charleston?

We always recommend to have your passport with you when travelling outside of the US but some cruises have closed loop itinerary that don’t require you to have your passport to take part if you are a US citizen. Because all Caribbean cruises from Charleston make land on islands that belong to different countries, it is better to check the details of each cruise to make sure you can enjoy your sea voyage.

Can I cancel my cruise booking?

Yes, guests can cancel their cruise from Charleston in 2024 before their departure. However, the timing of the cancellation is important. Passengers canceling their cruise too close to the departure time may not be able to get a refund or only a partial one. Visit your My Trips section of the website or on the app. You can alternatively contact our customer service.

Why should I book a cruise from Charleston with Expedia?

Booking your cruise through Expedia means not just finding the best cruise lines out of Charleston but also selecting the best possible option thanks to in-depth search and filter tools. The search results make it easy to spot deals, and passengers can book their journey to and stay in Charleston alongside the cruise. Finally, we'll help you find the best cruise ships out of Charleston for your journey, allowing you to enjoy your time on deck and at some of the most popular vacation spots in the Caribbean.

Charleston Cruise Guide

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Pre and Post Cruise Hotels in Charleston

Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston

Reviewed on Apr 25, 2024

Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview, an IHG Hotel

Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024

Town & Country Inn and Suites

Reviewed on Apr 29, 2024

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Cruise to Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in charleston.

FOOTSTEPS OF TIME

Fountain Pineapple, Charleston, South Carolina

Head out on foot from the Battery’s seawall to Waterfront Park, then through the French Quarter and down buzzing King Street. Along the way you’ll stroll past centuries-old mansions, Dock Street Theatre, Gothic Revival churches, war relics, retail hubs and other southern treasures.

ANTEBELLUM MEMORIES

Antebellum Memories, Charleston, South Carolina

Trace centuries of American history among Charleston’s old rice plantations. Boone Hall Plantation is one of America’s oldest working farms, while Middleton Place is home to the country’s oldest landscaped gardens. Drayton Hall and Magnolia Plantation both offer Southern heritage and Lowcountry scenery along the Ashley River.

PALMETTO PARADISE

Get your feet— or your paddle— wet with plenty of outdoor adventures. Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach are both popular with beachgoers, and nearby Kiawah is renowned for its PGA-caliber golf courses. Kayak around Shem Creek’s estuaries beside dolphins and waterfowl, or enjoy a walk across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge before your Charleston cruise.

LOCAL CUISINE

Charleston is one of America’s top food cities, where Lowcountry comfort food meets award-winning, chef-inspired cuisine. Southern staples like creamy she-crab soup, fried chicken and collard greens reign supreme— and everyone has their own twist on the quintessential shrimp and grits. Try frogmore stew for authentic Gullah flavors, or head to Bowens Island for fresh-off-the-boat oysters shucked by the creek.

King Street’s retail mecca is filled to the brim with unique boutiques, antique shops and book stores. Broad Street’s Gallery Row is an art collector’s dream, while the four-block City Market is where you’ll find Gullah artisans selling their famous sweetgrass baskets handwoven from locally grown bulrush grass.

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Cruise from Charleston

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Cruises from Charleston, South Carolina

Cruises from Charleston are a great option to get away on a cruise vacation for many people living in South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. Cruises from Charleston range from 5 to 7 days and include cruises to the Bahamas, the Caribbean as well as eastern US river and coastal cruises. Guests taking a cruise out of Charleston might have extra time to enjoy Charlestons’s beautiful beaches, golf or some of the other many outdoor activities that Jacksonville has to offer. Those lucky enough to live within driving distance can also get some great last minute cruise deals when they cruise from Charleston.

Featured Cruises from Charleston

Carnival Sunshine

American Eagle

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Charleston Highlights

Fort Sumter Fort Sumter is where the first shot was fired that started the US Civil War. Fort Sumter is about 30 minutes by ferry from Charleston and is the location of one America’s bloodiest wars.

Mansions and Plantations Charleston is home to a number of grand anti-bellum mansions and plantations all of which reflect the our country’s southern heritage. Tour the homes, the slave quarters and the gardens of these historical properties.

Restaurants and Dining Many people visit Charleston to savor the fine restaurants and dining options. Enjoy oysters, fresh seafood in a variety of casual and gourmet restaurants served with southern hospitality.

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Royal Caribbean Cruises 60% OFF ALL Guests + Kids Sail FREE + FREE GRATUITIES OR Onboard Credit

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Cruises to Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston Cruise Port Guide

On Charleston cruises, discover the “Holy City,” a moniker given because of its many churches. The second you arrive, you’ll experience its old-world charm. From cobblestoned main streets to wrap-around porches where locals lounge unhurried, the mood in Charleston is relaxed, making it a perfect spot to vacation. This port of call on select Bermuda cruises encapsulates the American South effortlessly.

Please Note: While we don't currently sail to Charleston, you can still discover the beauty of the region on one of our East Coast Cruises . Browse our luxury cruises along the East Coast below.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to charleston, fort sumter.

The American Civil War broke out in 1861, and its first major battle began at the historic Fort Sumter in Charleston. In many ways, Charleston represents the heart of the conflict. A walking tour of the fort is a harrowing reminder of the country’s past.

The French Quarter

Take a stroll along the French Quarter in Charleston to see some of the city’s original architecture dating back to the 1700s. Walk along its cobblestoned streets and snap photos of the pastel Victorian buildings. Stop in local art galleries before finding a bite to eat on the bay.

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Located along the Ashley River in Charleston, Magnolia Gardens are the oldest gardens in the U.S. Take a nature tour and discover the flora and fauna of South Carolina along the way. You’ll discover the history of South Carolina’s plantations from the 19th century to today. 

South Carolina Aquarium

The entire family will love an excursion to the South Carolina Aquarium, which is located along the beautiful Charleston Harbor. There are daily shows, like sea turtle experiences, plus dozens of species of colorful marine life to admire.

Learn More About Bermuda Shore Excursions

Top things to do in charleston, shuck oysters on the bay.

Don’t miss the chance to try fresh oysters while in port from Charleston cruises. The city’s coastal location provides delicious seafood, and there are plenty of cafes, bars, and eateries with bayside views for you to take in the sights.

Enjoy a Horse & Carriage Ride

Whether you’re looking for a romantic excursion with your loved one or an unforgettable ride for the family, a horse and carriage trip through the cobblestoned streets of Charleston is an experience for all ages. Admire the Antebellum architecture as you go.

Shop at the Historic City Market

Find the perfect souvenir or handmade craft to bring back home at the Charleston Historic City Market, which is one of the oldest public markets in the United States. Shop the stalls and chat with dozens of local vendors.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Charleston Cruise Port

Luckily, Charleston has a variety of dining experiences for every palate, whether you prefer fast casual or fine dining. Many of the city’s chefs and restaurants have received a James Beard award, but don’t let that fool you into thinking the food is pretentious. Cuisine in Charleston is inventive while sticking to classic flavors and Southern comforts. For meat lovers, head to the casual Artisan Meat Share for bratwurst and all sorts of fine meats. At 167 Raw, slurp down a dozen fresh oysters in style. The Codfather is a local favorite for authentic fish and chips.

Culture & History of Charleston Cruise Port

Founded in 1670, Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina and one of the oldest in the United States. It was named “Charles Town” after King Charles II of England. Originally, the local economy was fueled by tobacco and pine, which was shipped back to the Old World. Over time, Charleston became known as an international hub for the slave trade. The first battle of the American Civil War took place in Charleston in 1861 at the Battle of Fort Sumter. In the 20th century, the city made major efforts to preserve historic landmarks and grow the city’s intellectual and cultural contributions. Today, Charleston is well loved by history buffs and has a growing tourism industry.

Charleston Port Facilities & Location

Charleston, SC cruises dock in the Port of Charleston, which is very centrally located to the historic downtown area. Shops, restaurants, and tourist activities are a short walk away from the terminal.

Transportation in Charleston

Getting around in the center of Charleston is pretty easy, particularly if you walk to major sights in town. Taxis, as well as Uber and Lyft, operate in Charleston. Car rentals are available. A free trolley called the DASH trolley operates along multiple routes through town.

Shopping Near the Charleston Cruise Port

You won’t find much in the way of shopping in the cruise port itself, but you’ll be very close to the historic center of town where shopping options, boutiques, and souvenir stands are aplenty.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

You’ll use the U.S. dollar (USD) while you’re in port on Charleston, SC cruises. Tipping here is similar to other parts of the United States. Leave a 10-15% tip for bartenders and taxi drivers. It’s polite to leave a small tip for your barista when you order a coffee. For exceptional dinner service, tipping between 15-20% of the bill is recommended.

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Cruises From Charleston Sc

Imagine sailing away on a luxurious adventure, exploring picturesque islands and savoring breathtaking sunsets. With “Cruises From Charleston Sc,” your dream vacation becomes a reality. This extraordinary product offers an unparalleled experience, taking you on unforgettable voyages departing from the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, these cruises are tailored to meet your every desire. Get ready to embark on an incredible journey as you discover the wonders of the sea with “Cruises From Charleston Sc.”

Table of Contents

Overview of Cruises from Charleston SC

Charleston, South Carolina, has a rich history as a port city dating back to the colonial era. The port of Charleston has played a significant role in the region’s economy and transportation for centuries. Today, it has also become a popular departure point for cruises, offering a variety of exciting options for travelers.

Brief history of Charleston’s port

The port of Charleston has a fascinating history that dates back to the late 17th century. It was initially established to facilitate trade between the American colonies and other global destinations. Over the years, Charleston’s port grew in importance, becoming a hub for the export of goods like rice, cotton, and indigo. The port was also instrumental in the importation of enslaved people during the height of the slave trade. Today, it stands as a testament to Charleston’s maritime heritage.

Reasons why Charleston is a popular port for cruises

There are several reasons why Charleston has become a popular port for cruises. Firstly, its convenient location along the eastern coast of the United States makes it easily accessible to travelers from various regions. Additionally, Charleston’s historic charm and vibrant culture make it an attractive destination in its own right. Many cruise passengers choose to extend their stay in Charleston before or after their cruise to explore the city’s rich history, scenic beauty, and world-class cuisine.

Different types of cruises departing from Charleston

Charleston offers a diverse range of cruise options to suit different preferences and interests. Passengers can choose from a variety of cruise lines that operate from the port, each offering their own unique itineraries and experiences. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing Caribbean getaway, an adventure-filled exploration of the Panama Canal, or a luxury cruise experience, there is a cruise from Charleston to fulfill your desires.

Popular Cruise Lines Operating from Charleston SC

Description of carnival cruise line.

Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most well-known and popular cruise lines operating from Charleston. With a fleet of modern and innovative ships, Carnival offers a wide range of itineraries to destinations such as the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. Their ships feature an array of amenities and entertainment options, including water parks, casinos, and live shows. Carnival is known for its energetic and fun-filled atmosphere, making it a great choice for families and groups of friends.

Services offered by Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is another prominent cruise line operating from Charleston. The Royal Caribbean fleet includes state-of-the-art ships with luxurious accommodations and a plethora of onboard activities. From rock climbing walls and Broadway-style shows to gourmet dining options and spa facilities, Royal Caribbean offers a truly immersive and indulgent cruise experience. Their itineraries encompass destinations such as the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Canada.

What makes Celebrity Cruises stand out

For those seeking a more refined and sophisticated cruise experience, Celebrity Cruises is an excellent choice. With a reputation for excellent service, elegant accommodations, and world-class dining, Celebrity Cruises offers a premium experience to its guests. Their ships feature modern amenities like spas, theaters, and various culinary options. Celebrity Cruises offers itineraries to destinations including the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Panama Canal.

Overview of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line, also known as NCL, is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept that offers passengers the freedom to customize their cruise experience. NCL’s fleet includes an impressive range of ships, each with its own unique features and amenities. From thrilling water parks and exciting entertainment options to a wide selection of specialty restaurants, NCL ensures that there is never a dull moment onboard. Their itineraries include destinations in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Europe.

Reviews and Comparison between Cruise Lines

When choosing a cruise line, it’s important to consider various factors, such as accommodation facilities, onboard amenities, and customer reviews. Let’s compare and explore these aspects among the popular cruise lines operating from Charleston.

Comparing accommodation facilities across cruise lines

Carnival Cruise Line offers a range of stateroom options, including interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite cabins. These cabins are designed to provide comfort and convenience during your time aboard. Royal Caribbean provides a similar range of accommodations, with the added option of spacious family suites for those traveling with children. Celebrity Cruises is known for its elegant and spacious staterooms, including the luxurious suites that offer a high level of comfort and personalized service. Norwegian Cruise Line also offers a variety of cabin options, from cozy interior cabins to lavish suites with exclusive amenities.

Comparing onboard amenities and recreational facilities

Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its fun-filled onboard activities, including water parks, mini-golf courses, and live entertainment. Royal Caribbean takes onboard entertainment to the next level with features like surf simulators, rock climbing walls, and ice skating rinks. Celebrity Cruises focuses on providing a more refined experience, with amenities such as onboard spas, fitness centers, and art galleries. Norwegian Cruise Line shines in terms of onboard dining options and specialty restaurants, allowing passengers to savor a wide variety of cuisines from around the world.

Comparison based on cruise duration and destinations

When it comes to cruise durations, Carnival Cruise Line offers a range of options, from shorter three-night cruises to longer voyages lasting up to 14 nights. Royal Caribbean offers a similar range, with itineraries ranging from three to 14 nights. Celebrity Cruises typically offers longer cruises, with itineraries lasting seven to 14 nights. Norwegian Cruise Line provides a variety of cruises spanning different durations, from three-night weekend getaways to extended voyages lasting over two weeks.

In terms of destinations, all four cruise lines offer itineraries to the Caribbean, providing opportunities to explore beautiful tropical islands and experience the region’s vibrant culture. Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line also offer cruises to the Bahamas, while Royal Caribbean includes Bermuda among its destinations. Celebrity Cruises stands out with its Panama Canal cruises, allowing passengers to traverse this engineering marvel and explore fascinating destinations like Costa Rica.

Customer reviews and testimonials

Customer reviews and testimonials are valuable resources to gauge the overall satisfaction of passengers and their experiences with different cruise lines. It is recommended to read a variety of reviews from reputable sources to get a comprehensive understanding of each cruise line’s strengths and weaknesses. Websites like TripAdvisor and Cruise Critic are excellent platforms to find genuine reviews and firsthand accounts from past cruisers.

Top Destinations from Charleston SC Cruises

Charleston’s location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring a variety of stunning destinations. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top destinations you can visit on cruises departing from Charleston.

Exploring the Caribbean cruises

Caribbean cruises from Charleston allow you to embark on a tropical adventure, exploring the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultures of the region. From the sun-drenched islands of the Eastern Caribbean, such as St. Thomas and St. Maarten, to the lush landscapes and Mayan ruins of the Western Caribbean in destinations like Belize and Mexico, a Caribbean cruise offers something for everyone. Whether you prefer relaxing beach days, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, or immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of the islands, a Caribbean cruise will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Highlights of Bermuda cruises

Bermuda, with its pink-sand beaches and vibrant turquoise waters, is a popular destination for cruises departing from Charleston. Bermuda cruises typically offer a longer stay in this enchanting island paradise, allowing you ample time to explore the charming towns, visit historic landmarks such as the Royal Naval Dockyard and the UNESCO World Heritage site of St. George, and indulge in thrilling water sports like snorkeling and jet skiing. Whether you’re looking to relax on stunning beaches or dive into the island’s colonial heritage, a Bermuda cruise promises an unforgettable experience.

Details about Bahamas cruises

The Bahamas, located just off the coast of Florida, is a collection of stunning islands known for their pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and exciting water-based activities. Cruises from Charleston to the Bahamas provide the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun on breathtaking beaches, explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling or diving, and immerse yourself in the local Bahamian culture. Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, offers a lively atmosphere with shopping, dining, and historic sites, while other destinations like Freeport and Half Moon Cay provide opportunities for relaxation or adventure in picturesque settings.

Touch on exotic destinations like Panama Canal and Costa Rica

For those seeking a more unique and adventurous cruise experience, it’s worth considering itineraries that explore exotic destinations like the Panama Canal and Costa Rica. Cruises that transit the Panama Canal allow passengers to witness this incredible engineering marvel first-hand. As the ship makes its way through the locks and channels, you will have the opportunity to marvel at the surrounding lush rainforests and learn about the history and significance of the Panama Canal. Additional stops in Costa Rica offer the chance to explore the country’s incredible biodiversity, whether through thrilling zip-lining adventures, wildlife spotting in national parks, or tranquil boat tours along majestic rivers.

Tips for Booking Cruises from Charleston SC

Booking a cruise can be an exciting and memorable experience. Here are some essential tips to consider when booking cruises from Charleston to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Best time to book a cruise

The best time to book a cruise from Charleston depends on various factors, including your preferred travel dates, destination, and budget. It’s generally advisable to book your cruise well in advance, especially if you have specific dates or cabin preferences. Peak seasons, such as summer or holidays, tend to be in high demand, so booking early can help secure the best deals and cabin options. However, last-minute deals and promotions may also be available, particularly for cruises departing within a few weeks.

Tips to get the best cruise deals

To get the best cruise deals, it’s advisable to keep an eye out for promotions and offers from cruise lines. Subscribing to newsletters or following the social media accounts of cruise lines can help you stay updated on the latest deals and discounts. Additionally, working with a reputable travel agent specializing in cruises can provide access to exclusive offers and personalized assistance in finding the best deals that match your preferences and budget.

Considerations for choosing a cruise line

When choosing a cruise line, it’s important to consider factors such as the cruise line’s reputation, cruise itineraries, onboard amenities, and overall cost. Take into account your preferences and priorities, whether you value a family-friendly atmosphere, entertainment options, culinary experiences, or a more luxurious and refined experience. Review customer reviews and testimonials to gauge passenger satisfaction and consider seeking recommendations from friends or family who have previously cruised with specific lines.

Things to know about cabin types and selection

Cruise ships offer a variety of cabin types to suit different budgets and preferences. Interior cabins are usually the most affordable option, offering a comfortable and cozy space to rest. Oceanview cabins provide a scenic view of the ocean, while balcony cabins allow you to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and stunning vistas from your own private balcony. Suites offer a more spacious and luxurious experience, often including additional amenities and personalized services.

When selecting a cabin, consider factors such as location, proximity to elevators or public areas, and potential noise levels. Keep in mind that cabins located mid-ship or on higher decks tend to experience less motion and provide easy access to onboard amenities. It’s also worth considering whether you prefer a cabin with a view or prioritize more interior space for relaxation.

Pre-Cruise Accommodations in Charleston SC

If you’re planning to embark on a cruise from Charleston, it’s worth considering arriving a day or two before your departure to fully explore the city’s charm. Here are some recommended hotels near the port, attractions to visit, and dining options in Charleston.

Recommended hotels near the port

Staying in a hotel near the port can offer convenience and easy access to the cruise terminal. Some popular options near Charleston’s port include the Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Historic District, which offers spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city. The Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina provides waterfront accommodations and resort amenities, including a private beach, multiple dining options, and a marina. Another excellent choice is The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel, a historic property located in the heart of downtown Charleston, offering luxurious accommodations and exceptional service.

Attractions to visit in Charleston before your cruise

Charleston is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Before your cruise, take the opportunity to explore some of the city’s top attractions. Visit the historic district, where you can wander along cobblestone streets lined with grand mansions, visit iconic landmarks like The Battery and Rainbow Row, and immerse yourself in the city’s fascinating history at the Charleston Museum or the Aiken-Rhett House. Don’t miss a visit to the beautiful plantations and gardens like Magnolia Plantation and Middleton Place, which offer a glimpse into Charleston’s past.

Dining options in Charleston

Charleston is a culinary paradise, with a vibrant food scene that showcases a mix of traditional Southern cuisine and innovative international flavors. Indulge in classic Lowcountry dishes such as shrimp and grits or she-crab soup at local institutions like Hominy Grill or Jestine’s Kitchen. For a more refined dining experience, there are several award-winning restaurants in Charleston, including FIG, Husk, and McCrady’s. If you’re a fan of seafood, don’t miss a visit to The Ordinary, where you can savor delicious oysters and seafood delicacies.

Embarking on your Cruise from Charleston SC

Embarking on a cruise is an exciting experience that marks the beginning of your adventure at sea. Here’s what you need to know about cruise terminal facilities, the boarding process, and transport options to the cruise terminal in Charleston.

Cruise terminal facilities and services

Charleston’s cruise terminal is conveniently located near downtown Charleston and offers several facilities to make the embarkation process smooth and efficient. The terminal features spacious check-in areas, security checkpoints, and baggage drop-off points. There are seating areas and restrooms for passengers, as well as shops and cafés where you can purchase any last-minute essentials or grab a quick bite to eat. The terminal staff is available to assist passengers with any questions or concerns.

Boarding process and tips

The boarding process typically begins a few hours before the scheduled departure time, allowing passengers ample time to check-in and go through security procedures. It is essential to arrive at the cruise terminal with all necessary travel documents, including your passport or identification, cruise tickets, and any required visas or health certificates. Follow the instructions provided by the cruise line for a smooth and efficient boarding process. Have your documents readily accessible, along with any necessary forms or waivers that need to be filled out.

Parking and transport options to the cruise terminal

Charleston offers several parking options near the cruise terminal for those driving to embark on their cruise. The Union Pier Parking Garage, located adjacent to the terminal, provides convenient parking facilities. Additionally, other parking lots and garages within walking distance offer alternative parking options. It is advisable to check with the cruise line or the port authority for specific parking rates and availability.

For those preferring not to drive, there are various transportation options available to reach the cruise terminal. Taxi services, rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft, and local shuttle services provide convenient and reliable transport from nearby hotels or the airport to the cruise terminal. Some cruise lines also offer transportation packages that include shuttle services from designated locations to the terminal.

Things to do on Cruises from Charleston SC

Once aboard your cruise ship, you’ll have a multitude of activities and amenities to enjoy during your journey. Here are some highlights of what you can expect on cruises departing from Charleston.

Onboard activities and entertainment

Cruise ships offer a wide range of onboard activities and entertainment options to cater to various interests and preferences. Enjoy live shows and performances in the ship’s theater, ranging from Broadway-style productions and comedy shows to musical performances and magic acts. Participate in enrichment programs, such as cooking classes, art workshops, or lectures on topics like history, wildlife, or photography. Engage in friendly competition with sports activities like mini-golf, basketball, or even simulated surfing or skydiving, depending on the ship’s amenities.

Specialty dining venues

One of the highlights of a cruise is the culinary experience, and cruise lines often boast a variety of specialty dining venues to tantalize your taste buds. These venues offer a diverse range of cuisines and dining concepts, allowing you to indulge in flavors from around the world. Whether you’re craving a juicy steak at a classic steakhouse, fresh seafood at a seafood grill, or an authentic taste of Italian or Asian cuisine, specialty dining venues onboard provide the opportunity to savor gourmet meals in a unique and intimate atmosphere.

Spa and wellness amenities

Cruise ships offer spa and wellness amenities designed to help you relax, rejuvenate, and unwind during your cruise. Pamper yourself in the ship’s spa, offering a range of treatments like massages, facials, and body wraps, all performed by skilled professionals. Many ships also feature fitness centers equipped with state-of-the-art workout equipment, providing you the chance to maintain your fitness routine while enjoying splendid ocean views. Participate in yoga or Pilates classes, join fitness challenges, or simply take a stroll on the ship’s outdoor jogging track to keep active.

Available excursions and adventures at different cruise stops

One of the highlights of a cruise is the opportunity to explore various ports of call and embark on exciting shore excursions. Depending on your cruise itinerary, you may visit stunning beaches, embark on snorkeling or scuba diving adventures, go hiking or zip-lining through lush rainforests, or immerse yourself in the culture and history of charming towns and cities. Cruise lines offer a variety of shore excursion options, ranging from guided tours and historical walks to adrenaline-pumping adventures and wildlife encounters. Booking these excursions through the cruise line ensures a seamless experience, with expert guides and the guarantee of a timely return to the ship.

Packing Tips for Cruises from Charleston SC

Packing for a cruise requires careful consideration of the destination, duration, and onboard activities. Here are some essential packing tips to help you prepare for your cruise from Charleston.

What to pack for a Caribbean cruise

For a Caribbean cruise, pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm and tropical climates. Include essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for days spent lounging by the pool or on the beach. Bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring ashore during port stops, along with sneakers or workout shoes if you plan to utilize onboard fitness amenities. Depending on your preferences, pack a mix of casual resort wear, elegant evening attire for formal nights, and versatile pieces that can be layered for varying weather conditions.

Special items to pack depending on the cruise destination

If your cruise includes destinations like Bermuda or other cooler climate regions, consider packing a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. For cruises that visit destinations known for wildlife encounters or outdoor adventures, pack binoculars, a camera, and any necessary equipment like snorkeling gear or hiking shoes. Be mindful of any cultural or religious considerations in destinations you plan to visit, and pack appropriate attire to ensure respectful and comfortable experiences.

Tips for packing light and efficiently

To avoid overpacking and make the most of limited cabin storage space, it’s essential to pack light and efficiently. Make a comprehensive packing list to ensure you have all the essentials without unnecessary items. Opt for versatile clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Roll or use compression bags to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. Keep toiletries and liquids within the allowed limits set by the cruise line to comply with security regulations. Consider packing a small travel-sized laundry detergent to wash items during the cruise, reducing the amount of clothing you need to bring.

Returning from your Cruise to Charleston SC

As your cruise comes to an end, it’s important to prepare for a smooth return to Charleston. Here are some considerations for the disembarkation process, managing post-cruise transportation, and activities to enjoy if you have extra time in Charleston.

Disembarkation process and tips

Disembarkation typically takes place on the final morning of the cruise, and cruise lines have specific procedures in place to ensure a smooth and organized process. Be sure to review the disembarkation instructions provided by the cruise line and follow any designated meeting times and locations. Pack your luggage the night before, keeping any essential items you may need in a separate bag. Prepare your travel documents and have them readily accessible.

How to manage post-cruise transportation

After disembarking from the cruise, you will need to arrange transportation to your next destination or back to Charleston International Airport if you’re flying out. If you have pre-booked transportation with the cruise line or a private car service, follow the instructions provided and meet at the designated location. Taxi services and rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft are also readily available at the cruise terminal. If you’re staying in Charleston post-cruise, consider booking a hotel that offers shuttle services to the airport or downtown Charleston.

What to do if you have time to spare upon returning to Charleston

If you find yourself with extra time in Charleston upon returning from your cruise, take advantage of the opportunity to explore more of the city’s attractions and activities. Visit iconic landmarks like the historic district, The Battery, or the Charleston City Market. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or take a relaxing harbor cruise. Charleston offers a wide range of museums, art galleries, and boutique shops to explore. Additionally, make sure to savor the city’s renowned culinary scene by indulging in a delicious meal at one of Charleston’s many exceptional restaurants.

In conclusion, cruises from Charleston, SC, offer a fantastic opportunity to embark on exciting adventures, explore breathtaking destinations, and enjoy unparalleled onboard experiences. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beach lover, or an adventure seeker, there is a cruise from Charleston to suit your preferences. Plan your cruise carefully, considering various factors such as cruise lines, destination choices, and onboard amenities, to ensure a memorable and enjoyable journey. Bon voyage!

Hi, I'm Mike, the author of Ocean Bliss Journeys. As the captain of this incredible website, my mission is to provide you with the ultimate sailing experience. Set sail on a journey of discovery with us and indulge in the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Our handpicked cruises offer unparalleled luxury and unforgettable destinations. From romantic getaways to family vacations and hidden gem exploration, I've carefully curated tailored packages to ensure every moment is cherished. So, join me and embark on your dream cruise today. Let's create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Explore Charleston by Land and Sea

Tour updates & safety information.

Charleston Tours & Events is excited to be able to continue our long tradition of creating memorable Charleston experiences form tours to private events. The health and well-being of our guests and crew members is our number one priority. Our policies are designed to keep everyone safe, while also allowing for an enjoyable experience.

• All unvaccinated guests over the age of 2 are requested to wear a facial mask while indoors on the vessel.

We are running at up to full capacities which does not allow for much distancing on a passenger vessel. Please bring your mask if you are uncomfortable in what could be a crowded environment or if you are unvaccinated.

Small Group PRIVATE CHARTER & HARBOR TOUR options are available!

More Questions? Call or text our sales department at 843-722-1112 . Live support office hours are 7 days a week 8am-5:30pm

WE'RE OPEN AND SAFELY CRUISING. See our COVID-19 Safety Information.

CHARLESTON TOURS & EVENTS

The best way to experience all of the beauty, history, and romantic appeal of the largest and most storied city in South Carolina is with Charleston Tours & Events. Offering a wide variety of cruise options on Charleston Harbor to an array of sightseeing tours and carriage rides on land, Charleston Tours & Events shows you all of the best of Charleston.

Tours & Cruises

Enjoy the beauty of the Charleston Harbor and learn the rich history of the Holy City on one of our relaxing Sightseeing Tours.

Take in all the incredible sights and sounds of Charleston from a comfortable and climate-controlled bus.

We make it fun and easy for vacationers to see and experience the best that South Carolina has to offer with day trips between Myrtle Beach and Charleston.

Private Events

Turn your private event into the party of the season by hosting it on one of our unique, on-the-water venues.

Charleston’s Best

Combo tours.

Save time and money with Charleston Tours & Events Combination Tours! With so many historical landmarks and places of interest, it’s impossible to take in everything Charleston has to offer on just one tour. That’s why we offer a variety of combination tours that let you pick and choose what you want to see when you want to see it.

Experience all the Charm of Charleston

City bus tours.

Get the ultimate close-up look at the history and grandeur of the holy city on Adventure Sightseeing Bus tours in Charleston. Our tour guides will take you through the best Charleston sightseeing in our air-conditioned, comfortable buses. Offering more sights than any other tour, we offer the top sightseeing in Charleston!

See the Best of the City on a

Exploring the historic and beautiful city of Charleston is the perfect group activity! Take your group—school class, senior home, church group, book club, or any social group and experience Charleston in an up-close-and-personal way that the group will cherish forever. We offer a variety of group tours to choose from.

Private Events That Make A

Lasting impression.

Whatever your private event is, make it the party of the year by hosting it aboard The Carolina Belle or The Charleston Princess on the scenic Charleston Harbor and enjoy a Sunset Buffet Dinner. What better way to WOW your guests than taking them out for dinner on one of America’s most amazing harbors. See the skyline of the “Holy City” and dine and dance under the stars. Whether you’re celebrating a wedding event, hosting a corporate outing, or hosting a private celebration with family and friends, give it the extravagance and touch of class it deserves with a private cruise.

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Day Trips from Myrtle Beach to Charleston

Plan the perfect day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston—the gem of a city that readers of both Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast voted the #1 destination in the U.S.! We’ll pick you up at your hotel, bring you to Charleston and bring you back after you experience the best of the city on tours including Palmetto Carriage Works, Boone Hall Plantation, and more.

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December 15, 2023

In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through the top 10 holiday festivities that make Charleston a must-visit destination during the most wonderful time of the year.

April 21, 2023

Charleston is a popular vacation spot in the Summer. Don't wait for June, learn about the top 5 spring break activities in Charleston!

February 6, 2023

Charleston is still brimming with events and things to do downtown, such as carriage tours and expeditions. Learn more here!

Charleston Tours & Events is the one-stop solution for the top-rated Charleston experiences through harbor cruises, historic tours, day trips & more!

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Charleston Charm: Unwrapping the Top 10 Holiday Festivities in the Holy City

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Charleston Voyage > Charleston Cruise Lines > All-Inclusive

All-Inclusive Cruise from Charleston

All cruises leaving from Charleston are "all inclusive" to one degree or another. Included in the fare is your stateroom, entertainment and standard dining options. But an additional fee is charged for some popular stuff. We have the full details of what is included on each cruise line.

First, what is an all inclusive cruise? It's a cruise that includes accommodations, meals, specialty restaurants, entertainment, excursions, soft drinks, coffee, alcoholic drinks and gratuities. All of this and more is included in the price of your fare on a few of the most luxurious cruise lines.

Silversea Cruises from Charleston are the closest to truly all-inclusive. They include complimentary fine wines and premium spirits, all non-alcoholic beverages, butler service, room service, gratuities, choice of dining venues, and live entertainment.

Crystal Cruises are also close to all-inclusive. Their cruises include complimentary fine wines and premium spirits, welcome champagne, all non-alcoholic beverages, afternoon tea, gratuities, choice of dining venues, 24-hour room service, enrichment series speakers, art classes, dance lessons, fitness classes, and live entertainment.

What is Included on Carnival Cruises from Charleston?

Carnival Cruises from Charleston include accommodations, Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, Playlist Productions shows, Punchliner Comedy Club, Mega Deck Party, Piano Bar, Nightclub, Seuss at Sea, Towel Animal Theater, Hasbro the Game Show, WaterWorks, Mini Golf, and youth programs for ages 2 to 17.

Included dining choices: Main Dining Room, Lido Buffet, Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Pizza Pirate, Seaday Brunch, Carnival Deli, Swirls ice cream, and room service.

Dining options available for an additional fee: Steakhouse selections in the dining room, Chef's Table, Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, and Coffee Bar.

Not included in your fare: alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, gift shop purchases, spa treatments, Night Owls daycare, Build-A-Bear Workshop, salon services, casino gambling, Internet access, fitness classes, video arcade, photographs, ship-to-shore phone calls, medical, laundry, gratuities and shore excursions.

What is Included on American Cruises from Charleston?

American Cruises from Charleston include many amenities. The ships are small but spacious and service levels are high.

An American cruise includes large staterooms, full-size bathrooms, snacks, afternoon tea service, cocktail hour, lounges for socializing, evening entertainment, wifi, and onboard historians and naturalists. Meals are served in a dining room that is large enough to seat all passengers at once. Most suites have private balconies. Shore excursion and service charges are not included.

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Weekend In Charleston: An Epic 3 Days In Charleston Itinerary

January 3, 2023 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you are looking for an amazing weekend in Charleston, South Carolina, itinerary, then look no further!

There are so many unique things to do in Charleston, SC. You can easily see all the best of Charleston in three days, and we’re going to show you how!

Planning your trip to Charleston last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Charleston in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are our top picks for your trip :

Top Tours And Experiences In Charleston:

• Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride (Our pick!!)
• Historical Walking Tour (Great way to see the city)
• Historic Harbor Cruise (Can choose sunset or daytime!)
• City Highlights Guided Bus Tour (Relaxing tour)

Top picks for places to stay in Charleston:

• Francis Marion Hotel (Amazing historic district location)
• Hyatt Place Charleston Historic District (Affordable)
• Hotel Emeline (Upscale and chic)
• Market Pavilion Hotel (4 star Downtown location)

We’ve come up with a packed three-day weekend full of Charleston activities. Charleston is one of the most beautiful cities in the South .

On this itinerary for Charleston, we did our best to hit all of the city’s most popular attractions. But if you don’t see something on here you’d like to do, you can simply add it to your trip!

Each day focuses on a different aspect of what makes Charleston so great.

You’ll explore colorful homes and beautiful parks as you stroll through the city streets. For history buffs, we’ve selected some of the best museums in Charleston.

We’ve also made sure to spend some time exploring classic Charleston activities. We think you’ll find yourself glad you took a fun weekend trip to Charleston after following our itinerary.

We have the perfect weekend guide to Charleston whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or even a bachelorette weekend in Charleston.

So, let’s take a look at the ultimate itinerary for 3 days in Charleston, SC!

Weekend In Charleston: An Epic 3 Days In Charleston Itinerary

Getting to charleston.

Getting to Charleston for your weekend getaway in the South is actually very easy. If you are flying, you can fly directly into Charleston International Airport. If you live closer or want to make a road trip out of it, you can also drive.

Charleston is a very car-friendly city and you’ll find plenty of places to park. You can also take the Greyhound bus or they even have a large Amtrak station if you’d like to travel by train.

This is truly one of the Best Weekend Getaways In South Carolina!

Getting Around During Your Charleston Weekend Trip

There are several ways to get around the city as well so do not worry if it is your first time in Charleston.

If you’ve driven into the city, you can of course use your car. Most areas have plenty of parking, either on the street, in lots, or in parking garages. You can also rent a car at the airport if you fly in.

Rideshare programs like Lyft and Uber are another popular way to get around the city.

When you are traveling just around the downtown area, take advantage of the CARTA trolley system. With several stops at popular downtown tourist destinations, it’s a fun and free way to get around.

Keep reading to learn how to plan a trip to Charleston, SC!

Day 1: Explore The Heart Of The City

Stop 1: explore the battery.

Spend your first day in the city exploring some of the most popular activities in the heart of the city. You’ll be doing a lot of walking today, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

Begin the day by exploring the Battery. The Battery is easily the most popular thing to see when you visit Charleston in 3 days.

For those who may not know, the Battery is a one-mile strip with colorful houses on one side and the Charleston Harbor on the other.

Depending on how much time you have in the morning, you can easily walk the entire mile in one go.

But, if you don’t have the time, we suggest starting at White Point Garden. The White Point Garden is a popular area of the Battery and near some of the more notable homes.

Book Here: Charleston: Historical Guided Walking Tour

Stop 2: Walk Rainbow Row

Your next stop is Rainbow Row. Like the Battery, Rainbow Row is an incredibly popular tourist destination.

On the famous Rainbow Row, you’ll find several pastel-colored homes. The homes were originally built in the 1740s but fell into disrepair after the Civil War.

In the early 1900s, the homes began to be renovated. From the 1930s to 1940s the houses started being painted in their many colorful hues.

Now, the pastel row of homes is a landmark of the city. If you search through social media, you’ll find that Rainbow Row is also an incredibly popular place for photos.

While you’re exploring the architecture, definitely make sure you snap a few photos or two. Taking selfies here is one of the best things to do in Charleston in a weekend.

Stop 3: Find Philadelphia Alley

Philadelphia Alley is a fairly unassuming alley in Charleston’s historic district. But it has anything but an unassuming past.

Philadelphia Alley was also known as ‘Dueler’s Alley’ in the 1700s. It is a narrow cobblestone alley that was perfect for duels at the time.

Legend has it, during one such duel, a doctor met his untimely demise. If you go on a ghost tour through the city, they will definitely stop and tell you the story of the Philadelphia Alley.

But if you aren’t interested in ghost stories, it is still a very charming alleyway that often gets overlooked. When visiting Charleston in a weekend, make time to stop by.

Stop 4: See Shamrock Garden

If you love finding pretty, secret areas while wandering new cities, you will adore the Shamrock Garden.

This boxwood garden found on Legare Street is one of the best hidden gems in Charleston . Surrounded by historic homes, this private garden can be viewed through an iron fence. You will love the geometric shape of the shrubs.

Legare Street is one of the best places to visit in Charleston for a stroll among ivy-covered buildings and overhanging trees.

This is a great area for a photoshoot away from the tourist crowds.

Stop 5: Take A Carriage Ride

Take a break from all the walking of the morning, and enjoy one of the historic carriage rides through the city.

The guides on your horse-drawn carriage will make sure you learn plenty about the city during your weekend in Charleston, SC. No matter what tour company you choose, all of the guides are extremely knowledgeable.

The tours typically last about an hour and cover most of the prominent historic buildings. Some of the carriages are large enough to host entire groups, or you can tour the city in a private carriage.

The city randomly changes the routes every day, to help with traffic, so you can’t guarantee a certain route. However, each route hits most of the more iconic buildings and homes.

When your carriage ride is over, head to dinner before hitting the next stop for the day.

Book Here: Charleston: 1-Hour Carriage Tour of the Historic District

Stop 6: Stroll Through Waterfront Park

We suggest a stroll through Waterfront Park to end your day, especially after dinner. It’s a great way to walk off the delicious meal you’ve surely eaten.

The Waterfront Park is also beautiful in the evening. At the park, you’ll find the famous Palmetto Tree Fountain. There are dozens of benches and pavilions you can stop and rest at.

The benches face the harbor and are a great place to watch the sunset. There will also be boats passing by in the harbor, and depending on what time of year you visit, flowers in bloom.

You can also relax on any of the green spaces scattered throughout the park. Waterfront Park is a beautiful way to end the first day of your weekend in Charleston, SC.

Book Here: Charleston: Daytime or Sunset Historic Harbor Cruise

Stop 7: Grab a Drink at Camellias

If you want to keep the night going after sunset, head to Camellias, a premier champagne lounge at Hotel Bennett.

Food Network named Camellias the Most Instagrammable Restaurant in South Carolina and you will quickly see why!

The bar is decorated with pink furniture and a delicate, crystal chandelier dangles from the pink ceiling. The marble was reclaimed from the historic library that once stood where the hotel is today.

The menu features delicious caviar, charcuterie, and local seafood. The is also an extensive champagne and wine selection.

Some of the tasty cocktails include Honey I’m Comb, To Peach Their Own, and Keep Your Gin Up.

Day 2: Learn Charleston’s History

Stop 1: fort sumter.

Day two of your weekend getaway in Charleston is all about the history of the city. We have an entire post that gets into the nitty gritty details of visiting Fort Sumter if you want to check it out before you go!

Fort Sumter is one of the most interesting historical sites in the South and is the perfect stop for history buffs.

To get to the fort, you’ll need to take a relaxing ferry ride to the island across Charleston Harbor. Along your ferry ride, you’ll get some great views of Charleston, the USS Yorktown, and Ravenel Bridge.

When you get to the fort, you can tour where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. The national park is open to visitors daily and inside you’ll find knowledgeable park rangers who will tell you about the fort’s history.

Inside there is also a museum with artifacts from South Carolina’s involvement in the Civil War. It’s a great way to start your exploration of Charleston’s deep history.

Book Here: Charleston: Fort Sumter Entry Ticket and Ferry Ride

Stop 2: The Old Exchange And Provost Dungeon

Next, head to the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. The building was originally built in 1771 and has served several purposes over the centuries.

Its past includes a military prison run by the British during the Revolution, the site of slave auctions, and a place to entertain city leaders. In its most recent history, it is a museum run by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

The museum has a self-guided tour included with the price of admission. On the tour, you’ll learn about the building’s top two floors as well as the Provost Dungeon.

Scattered throughout the museum there are docents who are available to answer any questions you have. You can be assured you’ll have a thorough understanding of the building’s colorful history by the time you leave.

Stop 3: The Old Slave Mart Museum

From there, head to the Old Slave Mart Museum. As the name suggests, the museum is housed in what was once the Slave Mart for the city of Charleston.

Charleston was a major hub of the slave trade, and as a result, most historic buildings in the city, unfortunately, have ties to slavery.

The museum is the first Black enslaved peoples museum. It prides itself on having staff who can often trace their lineage back to enslaved peoples who were sold at that very mart.

This connection often gives visitors a stronger understanding of the horrible practice of the slave mart. Inside the museum, you’ll find a ton of information on the slave trade and the history of the enslaved people who came to Charleston.

There is even an interview with a former enslaved person that you can watch. It is a poignant but important stop on any Charleston itinerary.

Book Here: Charleston: African-American History Guided Walking Tour

Stop 4: Historic Charleston Market

After the heaviness of the Old Slave Mart Museum, take a breath and stroll through the Historic Charleston Market.

The Historic Charleston Market is the most visited site in the city and is a great place to decompress after a morning of learning about the city’s dark history.

Inside the market, you’ll find only local vendors. It is full of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts.

If you are looking for a souvenir of your trip, it’s a great place to find a one-of-a-kind item to bring home. You’ll also be able to sample food from Charleston’s most popular restaurants or find kits for making their famous dishes.

Book Here: Charleston: Small Group Food Tour – Savor the Flavors

Stop 5: The Charleston Museum

Finish your second day in Charleston at the Charleston Museum.

The Charleston Museum is a great way to learn about South Carolina’s Low Country. There are several permanent exhibits, but the museum also has newer exhibits every year.

At the museum, you’ll learn about Native Americans that once called the area home, the area’s life and involvement in the Civil War, and much more.

There is also a natural history exhibit where you’ll learn about local flora, fauna, and geography.

The Charleston Museum is a great way to end your second day in the city.

Day 3: Iconic Charleston

Stop 1: drive to the angel tree.

On your final day in Charleston, take the time to see some of the city’s most iconic activities and sites.

The first is the Angel Tree. Now, to get to the Angel Tree you will need a vehicle. The tree is also not technically in Charleston. But it is worth the short drive out to Johns Island to view.

The Angel Tree is one of the most well-known natural landmarks in Charleston and a visit here is one of the best things to do in South Carolina .

It is a massive live oak tree that stands 65 feet tall and is around 28 feet wide. It is a sight to behold!

It’s unknown for certain, but biologists believe the tree is anywhere from 400-500 years old. It has stood the test of time and is a beautiful way to start the last day of your weekend in Charleston, South Carolina.

Book Here: Wadmalaw Island Adventure Tour: Wine, Tea and a Tree

Stop 2: Take a Day Trip to Cypress Gardens

Cypress Gardens is another of the best day trips from Charleston. This 175-acre swamp garden is about 40 minutes outside of the city, perfect for spending time in nature.

This is also a romantic place to visit in the South . The scenery is so beautiful is was chosen as a filming location for The Notebook .

Rent a rowboat and paddle among the pretty cypress trees through the calm water. Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, and alligators.

There are also over three miles of walking trails to explore as well as a Butterfly House and a Swamparium to visit where you can learn about native wildlife.

Stop 3: Tour a ‘House Museum’

One of the activities that are more unique to Charleston is the House Museums. Because the city has so many historical homes, many of them have been turned into museums.

There is a house museum for pretty much every interest. For those who are interested in the history of the politics and power that led to the rise of Charleston, there is the Aiken Rhett House. If you are interested in the opulence of early Charleston, tour the Nathan Russell House.

There are several homes and mansions you can tour in Charleston. If you have the time, one of our Charleston tips is to tour a few.

They are all so different yet interesting in how they, and their occupants, helped form the history of Charleston.

Stop 4: Shop on King Street

When you think King Street, think Rodeo Drive, but perhaps without the large price tags. King Street is the most iconic shopping district in Charleston.

The historic street is more than 300 years old and was once the main street through the city. Just like the rest of the city, it was badly damaged during the Civil War, but in the early 1900s, it began to be revitalized.

Now, it is one of the top shopping streets in the U.S. There you will find trendy and unique boutiques, antique shops, and designer stores.

King Street is also home to some of Charleston’s best restaurants and bars, making it a great place to stop for dinner.

Book Here: Charleston: King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks

Stop 5: Stop By The Dock Street Theater

The Dock Street Theater is the first theater in the United States that was open exclusively for theater performances, and it’s in Charleston!

It is also where the first opera performance in the United States was held. For those who love the arts, it’s an iconic piece of Charleston and the United States art history.

Currently, the theater is owned by the city of Charleston. The city does a good job of making sure the theater still gets plenty of use.

Depending on when you visit Charleston, you may be able to catch a performance at the theater. But even if you don’t have the time to see a performance, the exterior of the theater is stunning and worth even just a quick photo trip.

Stop 6: A Ghost Tour

To end your night, and your last day in Charleston, go on a ghost tour.

Charleston is said to be one of the most haunted cities in America. After two days of learning about its history, that won’t come as surprising.

There are several different companies that offer ghost tours. Most of the city’s ghost tours are walking tours, but there are also haunted carriage rides if you need a break from walking.

There are also a few different topics for the ghost tours, depending on which company you book a tour with.

Most, if not all of them will definitely hit the most prominent haunted spots in the city. It’s a super fun way to end your weekend getaway in Charleston.

Book Here: Charleston: 90-Minute Ghost and Dungeon Walking Tour

Book Here: Charleston: Haunted Carriage Evening Tour

Where To Stay In Charleston

There are plenty of amazing places to stay in Charleston. Some of the most popular accommodation options are bed and breakfasts in Charleston , but there are plenty of hotels too.

Barksdale House Inn

The Barksdale House Inn is a beautiful bed and breakfast near the Old City Market.

It was originally built in 1778 and the rooms are decorated in an authentic European style. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into early Charleston when you sleep in your four-poster bed after a long day exploring the city.

This is truly one of the best places to stay in Charleston . This area is not to be missed.

Check Rates on Booking.com

20 South Battery

If you’ve always wanted to stay at the Battery, then consider staying at 20 South Battery . You’ll be in the heart of the famous Battery, steps away from Waterfront Park, and more.

It is one of the best boutique hotels in Charleston ! The bed and breakfast is beautifully decorated, with ornate fixtures and furniture.

It is a luxurious place to stay while enjoying three days in Charleston.

Hotel Emeline

If you are looking for a classy and chic hotel in Charleston, then book a room at Hotel Emeline .

This hotel has many great amenities including free bikes, private parking, room service, and a fitness center. You will love the beautiful outdoor lounge with comfy couches and a fireplace.

The rooms are beautifully decorated with plush beds and cozy robes. There is also a bar and an Italian restaurant on site.

This hotel is also in a great location only a short walk from Waterfront Park.

The Jasmine House

If you are looking to have your three days in Charleston be a bit more romantic, you may want to stay at this adults-only bed and breakfast.

The Jasmine House is a Greek Revival mansion in Historic Charleston. The rooms are beautifully decorated and each one is unique.

It is centrally located near the Charleston City Market, Waterfront Park, and the Old Slave Mart Museum.

Where To Eat During Your Three Days In Charleston

Charleston is a city full of delicious and amazing restaurants of all kinds. It is one of the best cities in the South for foodies to visit. A stop at any one of these restaurants will help you quickly understand why.

Rodney Scott’s BBQ

You can’t visit Charleston without sampling some South Carolina BBQ. Rodney Scott’s BBQ is the perfect place to try the state’s most notable dish.

Rodney Scott’s is a Black-owned restaurant that specializes in whole hog South Carolina-style BBQ. Take a bite into a BBQ sandwich, eat dozens of hush puppies, or enjoy beef brisket.

Halls Chophouse

For fine dining, head to Halls Chophouse . Halls Chophouse is one of the most popular restaurants in Charleston.

The steakhouse offers up classics like filet mignon, lobster Thermidor, and New York strip. It is a great restaurant in Charleston if you are looking for a romantic restaurant to end your weekend getaway in Charleston.

Jackrabbit Filly

Jackrabbit Filly is an amazing Chinese American restaurant. Chefs Shuai and Corrie Wang combine classic Asian and Chinese dishes in particular, with classic American dishes.

If you are looking for something a little more unique, then this is the restaurant for you. With menu items like the Biang Biang noodles, corn fritters, and Singapore fried rice, you will leave full and satisfied.

Charleston is a beautiful city that can easily be explored in three days.

We think our Charleston weekend trip highlights all the absolute must-see spots in the city, and you’ll leave knowing you’ve gotten the full Charleston experience.

If you have been to Charleston, have you seen or done any of these activities? If you haven’t gotten the chance to go yet, what are you most interested in seeing? Let us know in the comments!

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How to spend 48 hours in Charleston

• Charleston’s historic downtown area is easy to explore on foot. Shopping, dining and attractions are in close proximity, so you can experience a lot within a weekend.
• The city’s thriving dining scene makes it a popular destination for food-driven travelers.
• Accommodations are incredibly diverse. From family-friendly hotels to luxury boutique stays, there’s something for every taste and budget.

Charleston, South Carolina, consistently ranks on "best of" lists, including TPG's own 18 best places to travel in 2023 , and for good reason. It's home to historic sites and landmarks, a number of eclectic art galleries, and varied shopping opportunities.

Foodies flock to Charleston for its fresh from-the-dock seafood, soulful Gullah-inspired Lowcountry cuisine, restaurants helmed by James Beard Award-winning chefs and a thriving cocktail scene.

Additionally, it's an ideal pre- or post-cruise vacation. Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Sunshine home ports in Charleston, with varied itineraries to the Bahamas, and American Cruise Lines offers Intracoastal Waterway cruises to Florida.

Although Charleston is South Carolina's largest city, its historic downtown is easy to explore on foot. Shopping, dining and attractions are within close proximity, so you can explore a lot in a short amount of time.

Here are a few ways to spend your weekend in this charming Southern city.

Getting there and around

Charleston International Airport (CHS) is around 15 minutes from the downtown historic district. There are several daily nonstop flights from various U.S. cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, New York City, Chicago, Baltimore, Dallas and Seattle.

The city is also a popular road-trip destination for visitors from Charlotte; Atlanta; Knoxville, Tennessee; Savannah, Georgia; and Jacksonville, Florida.

Hero Doughnuts & Buns

Fuel up for a day of shopping and sightseeing at this popular spot on Calhoun Street. It started as a pop-up in Homewood, Alabama, and the fresh brioche-style yeast doughnuts and buns quickly captured fans and taste buds. The first brick-and-mortar shop opened in 2017, and today you'll find several outposts in Alabama and others in Nashville, Atlanta and Charleston.

The menu also expanded to include breakfast sandwiches, salads and lunch buns. Craving a burger for breakfast? No problem here. They're available starting at 7 a.m.

Standard doughnut favorites like "The OG" vanilla glazed, chocolate glazed, vanilla cream and sprinkles are available every day. Other flavors rotate but may include maple sea salt, raspberry jam and cereal milk (topped with crushed Fruity Pebbles cereal­).

Shopping along King Street

You'll find a good mix of upscale chain stores and specialty boutique shops along King Street.

Stock up on the latest must-haves at Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free People, Gretchen Scott and Kate Spade. Locally owned retailers feature a diverse array of clothing, home decor items and souvenirs.

Kids on King stocks the cutest outfits for babies and kids — smocked rompers and dresses, whimsical sleepwear and swimsuits, and a good selection of holiday-themed clothing. There's also a good selection of toys, puzzles and learning games.

The colorful lanterns in the front window will likely draw you into 7 Hills Living. Its vibrant rugs, dishes, lamps, clothing and jewelry will keep you browsing for some time.

Fulfill all your Barbie Dream Closet dreams at LoveShackFancy. Dripping with pink, lace, ruffles and floral pastels, this shop is a wonderland of eye candy.

Charleston City Market

A National Historic Landmark, the market is at the intersection of Market and Meeting streets and stretches four blocks. Most of the buildings were constructed between 1804 and the 1830s and served as the city's market for most of that time.

Today, the open-air venue showcases more than 100 artists and vendors selling crafts, prints, jewelry, spices and other products. Watch local artisans weaving the iconic coiled sweetgrass baskets (which you can purchase). The skill was passed down through generations from their African ancestors.

The City Market is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. If you visit during a summer weekend, avoid the heat of the day and shop during the Night Market. It's open Friday and Saturday from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.

Head upstairs to The Museum at Market Hall for a detailed glimpse of Charleston's past. The museum features an impressive collection of Civil War-era artifacts, portraits, photographs, documents and clothing. Items include original wool uniforms, a drum used in both the Revolutionary and Civil wars and a rifle cannon that was made in Charleston in 1861. There's even a lock of Gen. Robert E. Lee's hair that his barber cut while preparing Lee's body for burial.

The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults and $3 for visitors ages 6 to 12. Active military members, veterans and children age 5 and under enter for free.

Rainbow Row

On East Bay Street, this section of 13 pastel-painted historic homes is probably one of the most photographed parts of Charleston. You'll also spy these iconic homes on paintings, postcards and other souvenirs throughout the city.

Lunch at Circe's Grotto

This local favorite on Wentworth Street is a great place for made-to-order paninis, sandwiches, wraps and salads.

Lunch items start from $12 (for the mozzarella panini or grilled cheese). Cool off with one of the fresh-squeezed lemonades ($5 and worth every penny). Add a flavor (strawberry, blood orange, peach, mango and others) for just 75 cents.

Seating is limited inside, but the restaurant has a nice shaded patio for customers.

Afternoon at the Charleston Tea Garden

Outside of downtown Charleston on Wadmalaw Island, the Charleston Tea Garden makes for an interesting side trip. It's the only tea garden in North America where guests can tour the 127-acre grounds. Currently, over 320 varieties of black and green teas are produced at this facility.

Inside, visitors can enjoy unlimited free hot or iced tea (and take it with them as they tour). Sip your tea Southern style while relaxing in one of several porch rockers.

There's no admission fee for a basic tour. However, guests can take a trolley tour through the tea field and to the greenhouse for $15.

Cocktails and bites at Little Palm

The Ryder Hotel made our list of best hotels in Charleston , but you don't have to be a guest to enjoy the gem that is Little Palm. The breezy poolside restaurant and cocktail bar gives amazing retro South Beach vibes.

If you aren't super hungry, shareable plates like the peel-and-eat shrimp with jalapeno cocktail sauce ($16) and the crab hushpuppies with pepperoncini aioli ($14) are perfect (and tasty). Go for the fish po' boy or the two-patty smash burger if you need something more substantial.

Happy hour is Monday through Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. with $12 cocktails, $8 beers and $8 house wine (choose from red blend or sauvignon blanc). The creative no-alcohol cocktails ($10), like the School Night (nonalcoholic dry riesling, citrus cordial, mulled hibiscus water), are delicious, too.

Bitty & Beau's Coffee

If a quick shot of caffeine and positive vibes are all you need to get going for the day, you'll get it in spades at Bitty & Beau's.

Founders Amy and Ben Wright opened the first Bitty & Beau's in 2016 in Wilmington, North Carolina, with the goal of employing mostly people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The coffee shop is the namesake of their two youngest children, who both have Down syndrome.

They have a card-only policy, and after ordering, customers receive a playing card instead of a number, making the transaction easier for the employees. The Charleston outpost at 159 Church Street is one of 24 in 12 states and Washington, D.C. Currently, Bitty & Beau's coffee shops employ more than 400 people with disabilities.

While you sip on your freshly prepared coffee, check out their branded items — mugs, shirts, tumblers, hats and other merchandise.

International African American Museum

Twenty years in the making, the 150,000-square-foot museum finally opened in June on Gadsden's Wharf. Its location is significant — from 1772-1808, the wharf was the country's largest slave auction site. In fact, historians believe that around 90% of African Americans can trace one ancestor back to Charleston.

The museum is laid out in a series of nine galleries that showcase interactive exhibits and more than 150 artifacts, and nearly 50 films and interactive digital experiences that share compelling stories of survival and resilience. Several smaller galleries feature topic-specific installations and artwork. Some exhibits will rotate throughout the year.

One particular gallery is devoted to the West African-born Gullah Geechee culture of South Carolina. Guests sit on wooden pews within the "praise house" for a moving film about the importance of the sanctuary and the music that flowed from it.

The museum also houses a genealogy research center to help visitors trace their ancestors' journey from their arrival on land.

General admission tickets on a timed-entry basis are $19.95. Tickets for youth (age 6-16), seniors (62-plus) and veterans and active military members are $9.95. We recommend purchasing your tickets prior to your visit to secure a spot.

Gibbes Museum of Art

Constructed in 1905, the Gibbes is the South's oldest museum facility. The building itself is a work of art.

The three-story museum houses over 10,000 works of art. There's no cost to peruse the first floor or the well-curated gift shop; the second- and third-floor galleries require a ticket. Permanent galleries filled with paintings, photographs, sculptures and furniture provide an impressive introduction to art from the American South. The Gibbes also features a handful of special exhibitions each year.

Tickets are $12 for those 18 and older; $10 for college students, seniors and members of the military; and $6 for children age 4-17. Patrons under 3 are free.

Dinner at Frannie & The Fox

Situated within Emeline, downtown's lovely boutique hotel on Church Street, this buzzy wood-fired eatery somehow manages both a homey and posh atmosphere. (Emeline also made our list of best hotels in Charleston.)

Menu ingredients are sourced regionally, and the menu mirrors the seasons to ensure the freshest possible dishes. Choose from hand-tossed pizzas, salads and hearty mains of steak, fresh seafood and decadent pastas. The Margherita pizza ($18) and Caesar salad ($13) received high marks from our table.

Pair your meal with an expertly crafted cocktail. We recommend the Violet Beauregarde ($16) made with Beyond Distilling tropical gin, blueberry liqueur, pasubio amaro and lemon.

Cocktails at Citrus Club

The Dewberry Charleston's rooftop cocktail bar is extremely popular with locals and tourists — the 21-and-over set, that is. It's an ideal spot to wind down after a day of exploring and soak up sweeping views of Charleston's steeple-filled skyline.

Tuck into a plate of Calypso chips and dips — plantain, taro and sweet potato chips served with a dip trio of mango tomatillo salsa, spicy avocado and Peruvian black bean ($16). Feel like sharing? Savor the fresh-made warm blue crab dip with butter crackers ($32).

For cocktails ($20), the Purple Rain (gin, lavender syrup, lemon and sparkling water) and the Long-Time Listener (tequila, dry Curacao, lemon syrup, St. Germain and bitters) are solid choices.

Where to stay

Charleston brims with accommodation options — from upscale stays to points-friendly hotels. Here are a few worth checking out.

Related: The 17 best hotels in Charleston, from historic inns to modern stays

The Dewberry Charleston

Midcentury modern fans will ogle over John Dewberry's take on hospitality in this Southern city. The luxury boutique hotel includes 154 guest rooms and suites that boast tall windows showcasing views of downtown Charleston and Marion Square.

Guests can make use of perks like a well-stocked fitness studio (with Peloton bikes), loaner bikes and a fleet of luxury Volvo house cars.

Rates at The Dewberry Charleston start from $378 per night.

Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston

Opulent, art-forward and bold — this upscale hotel is a fantastic spot for Marriott loyalists to earn and burn points.

Spacious and colorful guest rooms feature commodious marble bathrooms. Don't miss Eleve, the hotel's rooftop bar and restaurant, with an impressive coastal menu and even more impressive Charleston views.

Rates at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston start from $391 or 71,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night .

Hyatt House Charleston/Historic District

Situated on King Street, the hotel is convenient to shopping, galleries and a bevy of local historic attractions. Book a room or suite and enjoy free Wi-Fi, spacious bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. Some accommodations include a fully equipped kitchen — perfect for budget-minded visitors wanting to shave a bit off their food spending. An on-site indoor pool is a hit with families.

Rates start from $204 or 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

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The Perfect Weekend in Charleston, South Carolina: My 3 Day Charleston Itinerary

last Updated: March 27, 2024 charleston South Carolina

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to South Carolina and looking for the perfect long weekend in Charleston itinerary?! I promise you, after spending 3 days in Charleston, you’ll wonder why it took you so long to make it down here!

Sherbert colored houses on Rainbow Row. Sweet tea and smothering hot biscuits. Charming cobblestone streets with quaint architecture. That glorious Southern hospitality and mild, pleasant weather. Oh, and you can’t forget about all that Lowcountry Cuisine with its distinctly southern flavors. 

If that sounds like your kinda fun, you’ll wanna plan your 3-day Charleston weekend getaway right away!

As soon as I stepped foot in the city (and wiped the sweat off my forehead…), I just knew I was gonna love Charleston. It’s such a charming and walkable coastal city, with an eclectic art scene, tons of yummy southern food, and that iconic Pineapple Fountain. 

It was my first time in South Carolina – a new state for me, and I’m itching to go back ASAP. There’s evening ghost tours, gorgeous coastal views, stunning antebellum architecture, and lush, tree-lined streets. My kinda place!

The epitome of good ole Southern charm and charisma, albeit with a pretty tumultuous past (the city was built by slaves after all).

My parents recently moved to Wilmington, North Carolina, so when I visited them, I extended my trip and we spent a wonderful long weekend in Charleston together! Anyone else love traveling with their parents?! I’m lucky that mine are down for almost anything (and don’t mind me stopping every 5 minutes for a photo, haha).

It took me quite a while to make it over to the Deep South, but my first weekend in Charleston definitely won’t be my last! 

Psst : I’m aiming to visit all 50 states, and South Carolina was my 28th state on my 50 States Challenge !

Weekend in Charleston Logistics

Where is charleston and how to get there.

Charleston is a coastal city in South Carolina. And yes, that’s considered the Deep South. Not many know this, but the city actually sits on a peninsula (just like San Francisco ). Meaning, views everywhere! It’s bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Ashley and Cooper Rivers to the west.

Also, it’s kinda smack dab between Savannah, Georgia and the ever-so-popular spring-break hangout Myrtle Beach.

Charleston County encompasses a whole bunch of different areas, barrier islands, and resorts, like Kiawah Island, Adams Run, Folly Beach, and Sullivan’s Island. Note that this 3 day Charleston itinerary covers only the city of Charleston. FYI – If you’d like to explore the greater Charleston area, I’d give yourself an extra few days.

Flying to Charleston

When you fly into Charleston, you’ll be heading to Charleston International Airport (airport code CHS), the largest and busiest airport in South Carolina.

Thankfully, there’s direct flights from over 30 cities, although mostly from the East Coast and in the Upper Midwest and Texas. Unfortunately, there’s no nonstop flights from California , so if you’re coming from the West Coast like I was, you’ll need to make a stop. Promise you it’s worth the extra flying time!

For reference, my flight from Charleston to SFO made a quick stop in Atlanta, Georgia.

Once you get to CHS, you’ll need to make the 12 mile trek to downtown Charleston. You can plan to rent a car (all the major car rental companies operate out of CHS), take a taxi or ride-share ($20-50 based on traffic), or use a shuttle bus (a cheaper alternative for solo travelers). 

There’s also public transportation, the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (known as CARTA), which offers bus service directly from the airport to downtown Charleston. You’ll hop on CARTA’s Route 11 – Dorchester/Airport, which connects CHS to the Meeting Street Visitors Center in downtown Charleston.

Driving to Charleston

Charleston is easily accessible by car via Interstate 26, which connects the city with Columbia and Asheville to the north, and Savannah and Jacksonville to the south. If you’re driving from further away, you can connect to I-26 via other major highways such as I-95 or I-77. 

Since I was visiting from my parents house in Wilmington, North Carolina, we simply stayed on Highway 17 South for about 3 hours. Here’s driving distances from other major nearby-ish spots.

• From Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: 100 miles (2 hours)
• From Savannah, Georgia: ~110 miles (2 hours)
• From Wilmington, North Carolina: ~175 miles (3 ½ hours)
• From Charlotte, North Carolina: ~200 miles (3 ½ hours)
• From Jacksonville, Florida: ~245 miles (3 ½ hours)
• From Atlanta, Georgia: ~300 miles (5 hours)
• From Tampa, Florida: ~450 miles (7 hours)

Public Transport

Prefer to travel to Charleston by public transport? No worries! Charleston is well-connected to other major cities in the US by both bus and train.

Greyhound Lines connect Charleston to a whole slew of different cities in the US, including New York City , Atlanta, and Charlotte. Amtrak provides train service to Charleston via the Palmetto and Silver Meteor routes. Note that The Charleston Amtrak station is located in North Charleston, about 10 miles from downtown Charleston.

I’m not sure if everyone knows this, but Charleston is actually a popular port of call for several cruise lines. You may see Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and/or Norwegian Cruise Line cruise ships during your weekend in Charleston! 

Not visiting by cruise? I’d recommend checking the cruise schedule first and attempt to visit on a different day, haha. Cruises bring thousands of people into the (relatively small) city, making it feel extra crowded and cramped. Stay away, haha.

Do note that Carnival cruise ships will no longer start from Charleston by the end of 2024, but the city will remain a port of call. 

How to Get Around Charleston

By foot: Many of the popular attractions you’ll wanna see during your weekend in Charleston are easily accessible by foot, including the popular historic district. No really, downtown Charleston is super walkable! That’s one reason I just loved the small city so much – nothing was too far away.

Walking is a great way to explore the city’s charming streets and historic landmarks, and earn a few scoops from Off Track Ice Cream (my favorite ice cream spot in Charleston)! Be careful as some sidewalks could use a little lovin’, and plenty others are primarily cobblestone (primarily in the French Quarter and South of Broad).

Make sure to wear comfy shoes if you’re planning on walking a lot!  But depending on when you visit, it may be just too hot and sticky to walk long distances, so plan on alternate means of transport (Uber or public transit).

Biking : Charleston is a great place to go for a long bike ride – it’s pretty flat, the pace is slow, and it’s pretty easy to navigate. You’ll see plenty of fat tire beach cruiser bikes here, meaning rides will be slow and casual. Everyone rides bikes here – no matter their age or income.

Do note many of Charleston’s streets are not well lit at night, so you’ll need a front white light installed on your bike (which is legally required). Holy Spokes is Charleston’s most popular bike share, whereas Spinlister is kinda like the Airbnb of bikes.

By Public Bus and Free Shuttle: Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) offers bus service throughout the city, including the historic district. Fares start at $2 per person.

Yes, Charleston operates a (completely) free shuttle bus, called the DASH Downtown Area Shuttle . It makes stops around the Historic District and lower Charleston peninsula daily (minus Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day).

The free shuttles loop around the city on three separate routes; most visitors will primarily use the Green Line (Route 211) stopping within the historic district.

Wouldn’t it be amazing if all major cities provided free transport to its visitors (oh how I wish San Francisco would do such a thing – our public transport is totally lacking)!

Since we were staying a bit outside of downtown, we decided to park at the Visitor’s Center one morning and take the DASH to our first stop. Much easier than moving the car around all day and worrying about parking!

By Car: If you’re just planning to explore downtown Charleston and its historic district, you honestly don’t need a car. I’d only really recommend it if you’re planning to explore areas outside the city itself. Most of the city is pretty walkable, and there’s also public transit and Uber within the downtown area. Plus, street parking can be pretty hard to find, and hotel parking can get rather expensive.

And don’t worry – if you wanna visit a plantation (which you totally should), plenty of plantation tours include round-trip transportation from downtown Charleston.

Horse Carriage Tours: After wandering around Charleston for 3 days, you’ll undoubtedly come across horse-drawn carriages on the streets. While these are a popular way to explore Charleston’s antebellum-era streets, I strongly urge you to skip these rides .

The poor animals pull over a dozen people at a time, sometimes in extreme heat and humidity. Plan to walk or bike instead.

When to Visit Charleston 

Is there really a bad time to visit Charleston? Kinda, but not really! Charleston’s balmy southern subtropical climate consists of mild winters and humid, hot summers. The spring and fall seasons in Charleston are relatively short but pleasant – this is the best time to come!

Spring and Fall: Peak Tourist Seasons (March to May and September to November)

Spring and fall are by far the most popular times to visit Charleston. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s (Fahrenheit). Thankfully the summer heat has either died down or not arrived yet, and kids are busy in school! Perfect.

Plus, all the flowers are blooming in spring (ohhh the azaleas), there’s tons of farmers’ markets in fall, and there’s plenty of festivals and events (like the ever-so-popular Charleston Wine + Food Festival and Charleston Fashion Week).

Summer: Shoulder Season (June to August)

It’s kinda weird, summer in Charleston is considered shoulder season, although I’d choose winter over summer anyday!

Whatever you do, I’d avoid spending your weekend in Charleston during the summer. Temps will be sweltering hot (with highs easily into the mid 90s), and it’ll be humid beyond belief. You’ll definitely wanna include some time at the beach (to cool off!) if you’re planning your long weekend in Charleston during the sticky and sweaty summer months. 

If you’re not used to the heat, it’ll probably be too hot to walk around comfortably for an extended period of time. Keep that in mind and make sure you stay hydrated. 

For reference, we visited Charleston at the very beginning of June, and almost melted from the heat and humidity. We were longing to get inside to the blasting AC every few minutes! Yes, I’m still glad we visited, but next time I’m definitely gonna avoid summer.

*Do note that hurricane season officially begins on June 1, and lasts until November. While hurricanes are not prone to hit the city directly, you’ll need to be flexible if you book during this time.

Winter: Low Season (December to February)

Charleston experiences a special charm come winter – the sticky summer is gone, the crowds thin out, and there’s fun holiday vibes and decorations around the city! You’ll also be able to find cheaper airfare and hotel rates during this time.

And honestly, Charleston hardly gets cold – with daytime temps hovering around 60°F, it’ll feel pretty warm compared to other parts of the country. Especially for those of you coming from the Northeast and Midwest!

Brief History of Charleston and its Tumultuous Past 

We can’t talk about a fun weekend in Charleston without touching upon the city’s rich and fascinating history, and yes, that includes its tumultuous past. 

The city was founded by English colonists in 1670 and quickly grew into a thriving port town thanks to its strategic location on the coast. Throughout the 18th century, Charleston became one of the wealthiest and most prosperous cities in the American colonies due to its trade in rice and indigo.

BUT, of course Charleston’s prosperity came at a cost. The city was built on the backs of enslaved Africans who were brought over to work on the plantations and in the city’s industries.

Charleston became the center of the South’s slave trade , and it’s estimated that over 40% of all enslaved Africans brought to the United States arrived through the port of Charleston.

If you want to learn more about this major slave trading port, I highly recommend you visit a nearby plantation. 

During the American Revolution, Charleston played a significant role in the fight for independence. In the 19th century, Charleston continued to prosper, becoming a center for intellectual and cultural activity in the South. However, the city suffered significant damage during the American Civil War when it became a major target for Union forces.

Where to Stay in Charleston

Face it, if you’ve only got a weekend in Charleston (or at most 3 days), you wanna make sure you stay in a convenient location! The Charleston area is pretty large, and staying in downtown Charleston can be pretty pricey. Save some cash by visiting midweek, and during the winter off-season.

Historic District: If this is your first weekend in Charleston, I highly recommend staying in the Downtown Historic District. Why? It’s the heart of Charleston, and where you’ll find many of the city’s historic landmarks and attractions. The area offers tons of accommodation options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels in a variety of price points.

French Quarter: This is a charming neighborhood in one of the best parts of the historic district, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and delicious restaurants. And plus, many of the hotels and inns have great views of Charleston Harbor! In my opinion, it’s the most picturesque neighborhood in Charleston, only a few steps away from Rainbow Road and Tradd Street (two of my favorite streets in Charleston).

You won’t regret paying a bit more to stay where all the action is – plus you definitely won’t need a car at all as everything is easily within walking distance.

• The Spectator : Complimentary cocktails and top notch amenities. Get ready for a memorable weekend in the best possible space!
• Planters Inn : Historic hotel with 4-poster king size beds. Don’t leave without trying a slice of their famous coconut cake!
• Hotel Emeline : Upscale and chic, adorable and voyager-inspired. I low-key want to stay here next time – it looks so cute!
• French Quarter Inn : Champagne offered at check in. Meat & Cheese reception in the lobby each evening. Nighttime cookies and milk. Name a better hotel!

Marion Square: Not your first weekend in Charleston? Consider a stay in Marion Square – it’s still super close to all the best sites, and located on the main shopping street, King Street. Meaning there’s tons of great restaurants and shops to check out. Plus, it’s only a 20 minute walk or so to all the touristy spots.

• The Dewberry : Has such a gorgeous rooftop patio and you can even borrow an in-house car for a few hours. And those deep soaking tubs are reason enough to book!
• Hotel Bella Grace : With nearly 200 years of history and design forward guest rooms, this boutique hotel feels stylishly contemporary. 
• Hotel Bennett : Refined elegance and gracious hospitality. This stunning hotel was named the No. 1 luxury hotel in the country. A great place for a special occasion, with the price tag to match.

Riverview Hotels : Looking to save some cash? Consider a stay across the Ashley River in the Riverview district. I really only recommend this area if you’re driving and will have access to a car for the duration of your stay. The Riverview District is only a 10 minute drive to downtown Charleston, and you’ll definitely pay less!

• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Charleston Riverview : This is where we stayed and found it clean, safe, and with a great breakfast buffet every morning!
• Holiday Inn Charleston-Riverview, an IHG Hotel : The hotel has without a doubt one of the best views of Charleston! The rooftop Harborview Restaurant offers amazing views of the city, overlooking the Ashley River.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Charleston Riverview : Suites are equipped with full kitchens with room to eat, work, & dream. Plus, there’s a marina here, perfect for your morning walk.

You may see other Charleston blogs recommending a stay in Mount Pleasant (across the Cooper River), North Charleston (more modern and commercial), and Kiawah Island/Seabrook Island (great if you’re looking for a luxurious and secluded vacation).

While these would be great if you’re planning for more than 3 days in Charleston, I honestly wouldn’t recommend them if your main goal is to explore the city center. They’re too far in my opinion, and it’d be annoying to drive to downtown Charleston each and every day.

Is a long weekend in Charleston enough?

I think yes, a weekend in Charleston is the perfect amount of time!

Personally, I felt pretty satisfied with our 3 days in Charleston. It was the perfect amount of time to see the main attractions of the city, eat a bunch of biscuits and shrimp and grits, admire the colorful houses on Rainbow Row, watch sunset at The Battery, visit a nearby plantation, and even spend a few hours wandering down Tradd Street.

We hardly felt rushed – Charleston is a great spot for a quick weekend getaway.

If you wanna take a day trip or two (to maybe Fort Sumter, Beaufort, and/or even Savannah), plan 3 or 4 full days. Since it’s not a massive city, spending 5 days or longer is probably overkill if you’re not breaking up your trip with a relaxing stay on Kiawah Island or Folly Beach. 

Other FAQs About Charleston

• Does Charleston have a beach? Downtown Charleston doesn’t have a beach per say, but due to the city’s location, there are plenty nearby! Check out Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms.
• Is Charleston an expensive city to visit? Kinda – staying downtown is definitely a pretty penny, especially if you wanna stay in a cute boutique hotel. It really varies depending on the time of year you visit. There’s plenty of high-end restaurants in the downtown area, but you’ll also find food trucks, casual restaurants, and local markets. Thankfully, many of the city’s best attractions are free – Rainbow Row, Tradd Street, Pineapple Fountain, Charleston City Market, and wandering around the French Quarter all cost nothing.
• What is considered the historic district of Charleston? I was a little confused about this, so thought you may be too! Technically, anything north of Broad Street is known as Charleston’s Historic District since it contains many of the attractions from the city’s antebellum days. This includes the French Quarter as well as everything else north of Broad.
• Southern Cuisine in Charleston: You’re in the deep south baby! Time to eat up! Charleston has some seriously delicious southern flavors, all rich and flavorful and downright scrumptious. The city’s culinary scene is world-renowned, with a mix of classic Southern dishes and innovative, modern cuisine. Think fried chicken, shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, crab cakes, pralines, she-crab soup (the ultimate Charleston speciality), and biscuits and gravy. I’d also recommend trying a few Gullah dishes like okra soup, red rice, and sweet potato pie (from the Gullah people, descendants of enslaved Africans who lived in the Lowcountry region), which  incorporates African, Caribbean, and Southern flavors. 
• Do I need reservations at restaurants? Probably! Charleston has gotten increasingly popular over the years, so if there’s any restaurants you’ve got your eye on, it can’t hurt to make a reservation in advance (that goes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner). There’s so many great foodie spots here! On one occasion we couldn’t figure out where to go for dinner because almost every single place was completely full. Don’t be us, haha.
• Charleston vs. Savannah? Honestly, I say visit both! Charleston is known for its picturesque streets, beautiful architecture, and rich history. Savannah is also a beautiful and historic city, with a charming historic district that features many 18th and 19th century buildings. I’m dying to visit Savannah to see the Spanish moss-draped oak trees! 

Finally, what you came here for – the perfect long weekend in Charleston itinerary! Let’s get to it! 

Psst: This Charleston itinerary assumes you have 2 or 3 full days in the city. Meaning you got here the night before and can start your first full day in the morning. You can probably squeeze everything in on Day 1 if you arrive in the AM, but depending on your travel style, you may feel kinda rushed.

Also, feel free to arrange the order of the days anyway you like. I strategically grouped together activities by location and such, but if you feel like rearranging, feel free! Nothing is too far away from each other, so if you’re feeling one thing over another, trust your intuition! 

*Note: While many people visit Charleston for its pretty architecture and southern cuisine, I highly encourage you to visit a plantation during your 3 days in Charleston. It’s a great way to learn about Charleston’s tumultuous past and the Gullah people. It’s probably the best thing we did our entire stay. 

Weekend in Charleston Day 1

Stop 1: Pineapple Fountain and Joe Riley Waterfront Park

Start the first day of your Charleston itinerary at Joe Riley Waterfront Park, with a coffee in hand of course (Harken Cafe and Bitty and Beau’s Coffee are both super cute and only a few minutes walk away)!

Joe Riley Waterfront Park is a large public park located on the Charleston Harbor, with beautiful views of the water and the city skyline. We loved walking along the paths, stopping to relax on the benches to take in our surroundings. Definitely walk out towards the water – we loved it so much we came back one night after dinner!

Within the park you’ll find the Pineapple Fountain – right in the middle actually! It’s become an iconic symbol of the city. The pineapple is the true symbol of hospitality, friendship, and welcome in the city, so the shape makes perfect sense! If you find yourself back here at night, stop by the Pineapple Fountain again! It’s especially beautiful at night when it’s illuminated.

Psst – Come early if you wanna get picture-perfect photos at the Pineapple Fountain – it gets extremely busy, especially in the hot summer heat. By the time we made it there plenty of families were hanging out with their little kiddos splashing around in the fountain. This made photos kinda difficult, haha. Did the best I could!

Stop 2: Rainbow Row

One of my favorite stops during our entire weekend in Charleston! Rainbow Row refers to the iconic row of 13 pastel-colored historic homes on East Bay Street, and they are just gorgeous! I was so excited to finally make it to Charleston to see Rainbow Row, so of course I made sure to include it on the first day of our trip! Any instagrammers dream come true!

The shutters are oh so charming, the greenery is perfectly shaped, and the buildings are the perfect shades of muted pastel — quintessential Charleston architecture at its finest!

A little background, because I thought the history’s pretty interesting: The houses were built  in the 18th-century and were originally used as commercial buildings, with the first floor being used for shops and the upper floors used as residences. However, naturally over time, the buildings became rundown. Thankfully, Dorothy Porcher Legge purchased them in the 1920s and 1930s, and decided to renovate and paint them. In PASTEL COLORS! Leave it to a woman to beautify the area! 

Nowadays, Rainbow Row is the most photographed area of Charleston – I mean just look at them! Makes complete sense. Thankfully city ordinances are in place to keep their pastel colors intact. Visit in the AM in order to photograph the houses without hordes of people!

Note that the houses are privately owned and are not open to the public. While you can admire the beautiful architecture and take photos from the sidewalk, please be super respectful and remember that people live here (just like the houses on Lombard Street in San Francisco).

Stop 3: South of Broad Area and Tradd Street

Up next – wandering around the South of Broad area (to find all the pretty houses on Tradd Street of course)! 

Tradd Street is one of the oldest and most historic streets in Charleston, full of beautiful architecture, well-preserved buildings, manicured gardens, and charming character. The street was originally named after Robert Tradd, a wealthy landowner who owned much of the land in the area during the 18th century. 

The cobblestoned street was once home to some of Charleston’s most prominent families, and many of the historic homes and buildings that line the street today date back to the early 19th century. Whoa! Guess there’s a reason most of the houses are grand with beautiful gardens, ironwork, and other decorative details. Look out for the iconic pineapples that adorn some of them – we loved finding them!

Despite the fact that we were dripping with sweat from head to toe (it was brutally hot and humid out), we LOVED Tradd Street and all its charming architecture. I could have spent HOURS walking the historic street and side streets, finding colorful doors to photograph and admire. I honestly don’t remember all of the houses we saw/photographed, but luckily I saved a few addresses: 

• 58 Meeting Street
• 75 E Bay Street

You can also use my secret method for figuring out exact addresses like I explained in my Palm Springs door tour post !

Regardless, you’ll find a whole bunch of photo worthy spots on your walk. I swear the entire area is absolutely gorgeous and leafy green. Putting my camera down was so hard!

Tradd Street is a little over a mile long, so if it’s ridiculously sweltering out, you can easily walk a few minutes and turn around. Many homes and buildings on Tradd Street (and actually all of the Historic District) have plaques with information about the year they were built and any notable people who lived in them/what the building was used for. Definitely keep an eye out while exploring. We found this so interesting!

South of Broad Street you’ll also find plenty of picturesque alleyways (like Stoll’s Alley), other charming streets (notably Church Street, S Adgers Wharf, and Elliot Street with even more charming Charleston homes), the impressive Shamrock Garden, an antique map store (Carolina Antique Maps and Prints), and the iconic Pineapple House (at 14 Legare St). I low key wanna move here – don’t tell my husband!

Stop 4: Afternoon Options!

It’s choice time! Depending on how long you spent exploring Tradd Street and how hungry you are, you may have time for two of these activities!

Option 1: Harbor Boat Tour

What better way to escape the city and admire Charleston from the water?! We took this exact 90 minute historic Charleston Harbor Tour on the historic “Carolina Belle”. 

It was a great way to relax after a busy morning of wandering around in the heat. We saw Fort Sumter from afar, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, and looked for dolphins and pelicans splashing nearby.

Such a great hour and a half on the water, especially being on the old-fashioned 1920s-Bay-Steamer-replica yacht!

If you’re looking for something a bit more thrilling, consider signing up for a 2-hour speedboat adventure ! You get to drive your own speedboat (I promise it’s not as difficult as it sounds), all while listening to a live narration from your tour guide. All you need is a valid driver’s license. Don’t worry, you’ll have two-way communication with a highly trained and professional guide. Juuuust in case anything happens! 

You’ll speed past views of the Battery, USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge, the downtown Charleston skyline, Waterfront Park, South Carolina Aquarium, and the cruise ship terminal.

Option 2: The Charleston Museum

We popped by The Charleston Museum one afternoon once we couldn’t stand the sweltering humidity anymore. While I’m not necessarily the biggest fan of general museums like this, I found it pretty fascinating and plenty of the exhibits intrigued me quite a bit. I learned so much about Charleston’s rich history, culture, and art, which helped me appreciate the city that much more.

The museum was founded in 1773, making it the oldest museum in the United States – how about that?! The total collection includes more than 35,000 artifacts – meaning you can really spend all afternoon here.

I especially loved the L​owcountry History Hall, which went through the history related to the  Native Americans who first inhabited the South Carolina Lowcountry as well as the colonists and enslaved African Americans. The exhibit was done so well and I learned a ton about how the enslaved people transformed the region into an agricultural empire. The artifacts were mindblowing – including authentic copper slave badges (yes, actual badges that were worn by slaves working away from their masters), tools used in rice cultivation, and pottery handmade by the slaves.

Option 3: Aiken Rhett House Tour

No weekend in Charleston is complete without a historic house tour! If you’re interested in history, architecture, and interior design, don’t miss it. Or if you’re just nosy and wanna see what life was like for wealthy Charlestonians in the 19th century, this tour is for you, too, haha ← that’d be me!

The Aiken Rhett House was built in the early 19th century, and is considered one of the best-preserved antebellum townhouses in the city. On a house tour, you’ll see a whole bunch of rooms, including:

• Grand ballroom, featuring a stunning crystal chandelier and original gas lighting fixtures
• Dining room, the drawing room, and the family bedrooms, all of which have been carefully preserved and restored
• A visit to the slave quarters, which have been preserved to give visitors a sense of what life was like for the enslaved people who lived and worked on the property.

Regrettably we didn’t have time for a full house tour (we were getting hangry and had just been on a similar-ish house tour a few days earlier in Wilmington, North Carolina…), but we managed to sneak a quick peek at the exterior of the house. 

Stop 5: Southern Country Dinner in the French Quarter 

• SNOB : SNOB, or Slightly North of Broad, is a Charleston staple known for its upscale Southern cuisine and farm-to-table philosophy. We loved the menu – it featured tons of southern dishes like shrimp and grits to pork belly. Definitely make a reservation here – it’s crazy popular for a reason!  
• Magnolias : Who’s up for some classic Lowcountry dishes?! Magnolia’s serves up contemporary Southern food like she-crab soup and shrimp and grits, as well as innovative dishes like duck confit egg rolls. Again, another Charleston foodie hotspot so plan to make a reservation ahead of time. 
• Poogans Smokehouse: In the mood for some classic BBQ dishes like pulled pork and brisket, as well as Southern sides like collard greens and mac and cheese? Be sure to check out this casual barbecue joint.
• Pearlz Oyster Bar: This seafood restaurant specializes in fresh oysters from the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, from fried calamari to blackened catfish, as well as a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, and of course southern fried oysters and tons of oyster shooters!
• Oak Steakhouse: Romantic date night anyone?! Oak Steakhouse is known for its high-quality cuts of beef and super elegant atmosphere. It’s a fine dining experience, so you’ll 100% need advance reservations.
• Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar: Right in the heart of the French Quarter you’ll find Fleet Landing, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of Charleston Harbor. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for nights and weekends. Don’t leave without an order (or two!) of the deviled crab stuffed beignets and a slice of key lime pie – double yum! I wanna bring my husband here on my next weekend in Charleston!

Depending on when you’re visiting Charleston for the weekend, the sun might not set until after 9pm in the summer! Plan to eat dinner either before sunset or after, but don’t miss it! Strolling around The Battery at sunset was one of my favorite activities on our Charleston itinerary.

Stop 6: Sunset at The Battery

Near Charleston Harbor you’ll find the Battery, a public park located at the southern tip of the Charleston peninsula. And it’s absolutely stunning, especially as the sun begins to set. You get phenomenal views of the harbor, Fort Sumter, and the Ravenel Bridge.

As you’re walking, you’ll notice the water on one side, with elegant antebellum homes lining the other. Okay fine, they’re more like mansions, haha. Many of these homes have been preserved and restored to their original grandeur, including the Edmondston-Alston House, the Calhoun Mansion, and the William Ravenel House.

There’s even tours here! That’s how beautiful and significant these mansions overlooking the water are.

White Point Garden Park, intersecting with The Battery, features a seawall, a promenade, and several monuments and memorials. Including a row of cannon, which were used to defend the city during the Civil War. 

Charleston Itinerary Day 2

Stop 1: Visit a Plantation

Hate to break it to you, but Charleston is a city that was mainly built by slaves. All those gorgeous historic homes you saw on the first day of your Charleston itinerary? Built by enslaved people. 

Pay your respects by learning about their struggles first hand and understanding more about their lives – it’s the least we can do!

I highly recommend visiting a plantation (or two), but DO NOT VISIT SOLELY FOR THE PHOTO OP – yes, I’m screaming for a reason. This is just plain disrespectful. Visiting a plantation is a privilege; use your visit as a place to learn more about the tragedies that enslaved people suffered. 

If you are planning to visit a plantation during your weekend in Charleston (which I really think you should!), here’s some tips to help make your trip more enjoyable:

• Respect the history and culture: Remember that the plantations you’re visiting have a rich and complicated history, and it’s important to be respectful of the people and events that shaped the region. Be mindful of any signs or markers indicating sensitive areas or events, and be respectful of any cultural or historical artifacts on display. I cannot stress this enough (my #1 tip!).
• Plan ahead: Research the plantations you want to visit and their opening hours, admission fees, and any special events or exhibits that may be happening during your visit. Some plantations require advance reservations or tickets, so it’s best to plan ahead and book in advance (plantations are one of the most popular things to do in Charleston, so I HIGHLY recommend you buy tickets beforehand so there’s no surprises).
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes: Plantations often have extensive grounds and gardens to explore, so comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. Also, keep in mind that Charleston can be hot and humid during the summer months, so dress accordingly. And remember to be respectful – save your super-skimpy dress for another day.
• Wear sunscreen and insect repellent : The South can be buggy, especially where there’s lots of greenery (like at plantations!). 
• Take a guided tour: Visiting a plantation is great, but having someone in the know give you lots of insider information is GOLD. Guided tours can be a great way to learn about the history and architecture of the plantations. Many plantations offer guided tours with knowledgeable guides who can answer questions and provide insights into the history of the area.
• Take your time and enjoy the scenery: The plantations outside of Charleston are known for their beautiful gardens and landscapes, so take your time to explore and appreciate the scenery. Don’t rush through your visit, but instead, take your time to fully appreciate the beauty and history of the area.

The plantations are located outside the city center of Charleston, meaning you’ll either need to drive or take a guided tour that includes transportation. 

Not renting a car – don’t worry, there’s plenty of options that include round trip transport! I don’t recommend using rideshares – getting to the plantations may be easy, but you’ll probably have a hard time getting back to Charleston. One couple on our wagon tour couldn’t get a ride back for over 45 minutes, ultimately missing their dinner reservation! Imagine how stressful that would be!

Choosing which plantation to visit is hard, as they’re all super interesting and have spectacular grounds and gardens. Here’s the most popular two:

Boone Hall Plantation: We chose to visit Boone Hall Plantation, and I have to say this was a definite highlight during our entire weekend in Charleston itinerary. The grounds were spectacular and green (and even featured in the movie The Notebook!), and we learned a ton about life in the past. Anyone remember those scenes of the exterior of Allie’s family’s summer house – that’s here at Boone! 

Founded in 1681, it’s one of the oldest continuously working plantations in the country and has been owned by the same family for over 300 years.

Here’s what to see and do at Boone Hall Plantation:

• Avenue of the Oaks: You’ll arrive at Boone Hall by the mile-long driveway lined with 88 giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss. These trees were planted in the late 1700s and are one of the most photographed features of the plantation. So gorgeous and serene, and gets me so excited to visit Savannah in the future!
• Historic Slave Cabins: These 9 slave cabins, built between 1790 and 1810, have been restored and are now used to educate visitors like us about the lives of enslaved people on the plantation. Each cabin has a different theme, and we learned about how black Americans worked and lived, struggles that they faced, their emancipation and fight for freedom, and finally their struggle for civil rights. So powerful – I highly recommend touring the slave cabins. 
• “Exploring The Gullah Culture”: Your admission to Boone Hall also includes a Gullah tour that explores the culture and traditions of the Gullah people (descendants of enslaved Africans) in more depth. The tour is led by a local Gullah herself who shares stories and insights about the Gullah culture, including their African roots, their language, and their spiritual beliefs. We also got to listen to a few Gullah stories, songs, and dances which were powerful beyond words – super moving and emotional. A definite highlight. 
• Historic House Tour: The main house of Boone Hall was built in the early 1800s and has been restored to its original condition. We took a guided tour of the house and learned about the history of the plantation and its former inhabitants.
• Plantation Tractor Tour: I thought this was gonna be cheesy but it was so much fun! We toured the plantation’s grounds (all 738 acres!) and learned about the history of rice cultivation in the region. Plus, we were able to check out the butterfly pavilion and a vegetable garden afterwards.

How to Get to Boone Hall Plantation: Located in Mount Pleasant, Boone is about a 25-30 minute drive from downtown Charleston. We drove here since we had a car (as we drove to Charleston from my parents’ new house in Wilmington).

If you don’t have your own transportation, you can sign up for this Boone Hall tour that includes all admission fees as well as round trip transport from Charleston.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens : Located just outside of Charleston, Magnolia Plantation is one of the best additions to this Charleston weekend itinerary. It’s one of the oldest plantations in the South (founded in 1676 by the Drayton family and owned by them for 12 generations), and home to beautiful gardens and a grand, historic house filled with original furniture and china. 

You could easily spend a few hours here – strolling through the large-scale romantic gardens, looking out for wildlife in the Audubon Swamp Garden, and visiting important spots like the Drayton Home, Orientation Theater, and the Old African American Cabin. There’s also wetlands, lakes, forests, and marshes to explore. 

Whatever you do, don’t miss the “from Slavery to Freedom” tour – learning about the enslaved people should be one of the main reasons you’re visiting a plantation after all! Before Magnolia was a public garden, it was a working rice plantation. This tour honors and remembers the men, women, and children who designed, planted, and worked in the gardens, built and maintained the bridges, and labored in the house and the rice fields.

If we had time to visit another plantation, I’d have totally picked Magnolia’s for the garden alone! There’s tons of camellias, azaleas, and magnolias (hence the name!) on its 60 acres. Plus you can sometimes see alligators, turtles, herons, and other wildlife on the included tram ride.

How to get there: Magnolia Plantation is about a 35 minute drive northwest of Charleston, and there’s plenty of parking. If you don’t have access to a car, this half-day tour of Magnolia Plantation includes a 45-minute guided house tour, nature tour by tram, and transportation to and from downtown Charleston (from the visitor center).

Stop 2: French Quarter District

Next up on this 2 or 3 day Charleston itinerary – the French Quarter! We spent around 3-4 hours exploring the French Quarter, and absolutely loved it. The entire area feels so incredibly charming, with its cobblestone leafy streets, historic Georgian-style façades, and enchanting secret alleyways.

The district gets its name from the high concentration of French Huguenots that immigrated and lived in this area in the past.

The French Quarter is known to be the most romantic of all the districts in Charleston, and I can totally see why! I’d love to go for a stroll around here with Noah – it’s all so charming and just overall lovely.

If you’d like, you can either wander the historic district yourself, or take a historical walking tour (skip the horse and carriage ride). There’s even history and hops walking tours if you’re feeling a bit thirsty! And this combo tour includes a historic walking tour and entrance to a southern mansion. Basically, you’ve got lots to choose from!

If it’s bound to be exceptionally hot during your stay in Charleston, I’d seriously think about booking yourself on a bus tour instead. Heat stroke is no joke! This 90-minute Charleston bus tour gives you a great overview of the city and visits all the highlights. Plus, you’ll get to sit comfortably in AC! Score. 

Here’s what not to miss in the French Quarter:

Charleston City Market: You’re probably pretty hungry by now, so it’s the perfect time for a visit to the market. This historic marketplace has dozens of vendors selling a variety of goods such as souvenirs, clothing, artwork, jewelry, and of course local items like sweetgrass baskets, benne wafers, and roasted pecans. Outside the market there’s tons of southern foodie specialties to try!

Inside the market there’s also Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits (try a few, they’re delicious) and Clerks Coffee Company. We enjoyed the market but found it pretty touristy and a lot of the vendors had very similar items. Plus it was beyond crowded, probably because everyone was trying to escape the heat!

Philadelphia Alley: This is a small cobblestone pedestrian street, and although it’s shorter than I realized, the alleyway is rich in history and has a unique character. We loved admiring the beautiful brick homes and lush greenery that lined the street. 

The alley was named after the city of Philadelphia since many wealthy Charlestonians had connections to it in the 18th century. Even Edgar Allan Poe was said to have walked down this alleyway a whole bunch of times! Totally a hidden gem in the heart of the city, and a must during your weekend in Charleston!

Dock Street Theatre: This is one of the oldest theaters in the entire US, first built in 1736! It’s since been rebuilt and renovated several times over the centuries, and is now home to the Charleston Stage Company. 

We went inside and the staff was so friendly – inviting us to go upstairs and look around the historic theater. It’s designed to replicate the style of an 18th-century theater with a beautiful Georgian-style façade. We especially loved the ornate interior, with its large chandelier, intricate moldings and plasterwork, and velvet curtains. 

French Huguenot Church: Have you ever seen a pastel pink Gothic Revival church before?! It was built back in the 1800s, and it’s super beautiful – couples even take wedding photos here! 

Probably the most gorgeous church I’ve ever seen. A great spot for some photos for sure, and right across the street from the Dock Street Theatre!

Old Slave Mart Museum: Yup, this museum is exactly what it sounds like – featuring exhibits and displays that explore the history of the transatlantic slave trade, the domestic slave trade in the United States, and the experiences of enslaved people in Charleston. 

You’ll also learn about the harsh conditions of the slave market and how it impacted African Americans and their families. I found it super interesting that the museum is housed in an actual building that was once used as a slave market/auction in the mid-19th century. 

I heard mixed reviews about the small museum (especially for the kinda steep price). Since we had already learned so much at Boone Hall and The Charleston Museum, we took a quick look inside then decided to move on. If you’re not visiting a plantation, I highly urge you to check out the Old Slave Mart Museum to get some context and important info on the city’s cultural history.

The Pink House Gallery on Chalmers Street: The Pink House Gallery was founded in 1944 by a group of local artists who wanted to promote the arts in Charleston. Today, it’s home to a diverse collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, and jewelry. 

I have to be completely honest – I wanted to visit The Pink House because the exterior of the house is a charming pink color! I later learned the house dates back to the late 17th century, making it one of the oldest buildings in Charleston! Pretty cool! 

Stop 3: Dinner, Drinks, and Dessert on King Street 

Phew – after all that exploring it’s finally time for a good, hearty meal! Head on over to King Street, the iconic shopping district in Charleston with tons of shops, restaurants, bars, and galleries. It’s divided into three sections: Upper King Street, Middle King Street, and Lower King Street. 

We enjoyed strolling down Upper and Middle King, and found plenty of trendy boutiques, high-end restaurants, and chic bars. Here’s a few restaurants I had on my list!

• Husk : This restaurant is CRAZY popular, and it’s even located in a restored 19th-century mansion! The menus’ got a contemporary take on Southern cuisine, and they aim to use local, seasonal ingredients to create innovative dishes. 
• FIG : ​FIG (Food is Good) is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that offers a daily changing menu featuring fresh seafood and local produce. The restaurant has won several awards, so you know it’s gonna be good.
• The Ordinary: A seafood-focused restaurant located in a beautifully restored bank building. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, crudo, and ceviche.
• Maya : We decided to eat at Maya on a whim after realizing we totally needed a reservation at most of the other restaurants. Thankfully, we got lucky and Maya was absolutely delicious! Chic yet cozy feel. Definitely order a marg or two – they’re great here!

And here’s a few dessert spots to check out on/near King (either before or after dinner…):

• Off Track Ice Cream: Small-batched high-quality ice cream using locally sourced ingredients! We loved this spot so much we came two nights in a row! And it’s super quirky, actually located in a former gas station, which has been recently renovated into a happy and colorful space.
• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: Ice cream at its finest! I’ve had Jeni’s before in Nashville , so I knew it was gonna be good. With flavors like salted peanut butter chocolate flecks, brambleberry crisp, and skillet cinnamon roll, I had the hardest time choosing what flavor to get! 
• Sugar Bakeshop: We LOVED this quaint little bakery right off King. All the desserts are homemade from scratch daily, and there’s a whole bunch to pick from. Our cupcakes were divine and the outdoor patio is just too cute. We admittedly indulged before dinner, haha.

Stop 4: Charleston Nightlife!

If you’re up for more exploring, why not check out some unique Charleston nightlife activities?! There’s secret speakeasies to find, ghost stories to hear, and graveyards and tombstones to inspect.

Here’s a few recommended options for those not ready to head to sleep just yet… (which all got great reviews by the way!):

Speakeasy Pub Crawl : If you’re up for a combination history tour and bar crawl, sign up for this Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl ! You’ll hear interesting and wacky, outlandish stories from the 1920s – all while visiting some of the best bars and cocktail lounges and tasting some of the best cocktails in town. Plus discover the fascinating history of Charleston during the Prohibition era.

Dark Side of Charleston : Charleston has long been a place where high society life is shadowed by scandals, temptations, and unruly behavior. Listen as your guide shares the side of the city that is not talked about often. Take a walk on the dark side of Charleston on an exclusive and uncensored 1.5-hour walking tour through the streets of the Holy City. Learn about its complicated history of brothels, prostitutes, corruption, crime, scandal, and sordid affairs. Probably not the best tour for kiddos… just saying! Read reviews and sign up here.

Charleston Ghost Tour: Charleston is well-known for its rich history and charming architecture. However, it’s also known for its ghostly past – why not listen to spooky stories and hear about paranormal activity?! There are a whole bunch of ghost tours in Charleston that you can take to learn about the city’s haunted history. Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or just enjoy a good ghost story, you’ll find these ghost tours entertaining and quite spooky. Fun for adults but may be a bit too scary for young kids. Here’s a few popular ones:

• Ghost and Dungeon Tour : Walk through the dark and eerie tunnels beneath the historic Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. During the tour, you’ll learn about the dungeon’s grisly past (it’s where prisoners were kept!) and the ghosts that are said to linger there. You’ll also visit a local graveyard and snap pictures hoping to catch an apparition. Spooky stuff! 
• Supernatural 90-Minute Ghost Tour : Discover the heart of Charleston’s darker history and documented hauntings. The tour’s even led by a best-selling local Charleston paranormal author Geordie Buxton! Get thoroughly spooked as he tells of a series of mysterious hauntings – from orphan poltergeists to a lost cadet inside the old citadel to an angelic reverend, and many more!
• 90-Minute Ghost & Graveyard Walking Tour: Learn about the history of Charleston’s graveyards and hear the stories of the famous individuals who found their final resting place in the Holy City. Explore the dark corners of these graveyards and closely inspect the headstones to see what you might learn. Hint – it’s not what you expect!

Charleston Weekend Getaway Day 3

Have an extra day on your Charleston itinerary?! Lucky you! There’s plenty more to see! I’m giving you a bunch of activities, which you can mix and match to create your perfect last day in Charleston!

Fort Sumter

Interested in American history? You’ve got to visit Fort Sumter – it’s a historic site that played a significant role in the American Civil War.  The fort is actually where America’s deadliest war began – kinda crazy to think about. 

Since it’s situated on an island in Charleston Harbor, it can only be reached by boat of course ( book here )! This means you get to enjoy a scenic boat ride to and from the island – with tons of stunning views of the Charleston Harbor and the city skyline. It’s kinda like two tours in one!

Once you make it to Fort Sumter, you can opt for a ranger-led tour or a self-guided tour. The National Park Rangers tell stories about the Civil War’s first battle, lead you through the actual fort, and give you insights into the events that occurred there. Lots of interesting info!

The self-guided tours allow visitors to explore the fort at their own pace, with informational signs and exhibits throughout the site. The audio tours provide a more immersive experience, with audio recordings providing historical information and stories as visitors explore the fort.

Read (raving) reviews and book your tour and boat ride to Fort Sumter here!

Folly Island

Folly Island is a sweet little barrier island located just south of Charleston, South Carolina. It’s super close to Charleston, only about a 12-mile drive down Folly Road.

Longing for a beach day?! Head on over to Folly Island! The main attraction of Folly Island is its gorgeous beaches afterall! They stretch out for miles along the Atlantic Ocean, and are perfect for surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or just lounging around in the sun.

Aside from the beaches, there are plenty of other fun things to do on Folly Island. You can explore the local shops, bars, and restaurants, or check out the Morris Island Lighthouse, which is a pretty cool landmark that you can see from the beach. You can even search for wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins by boat!

When it comes to food, Folly Island is all about its seafood. You’ll find tons of places to grab a delicious fish or shrimp dish, like Jack of Cups Saloon or the Crab Shack. Don’t miss the pineapple whip (served in a pineapple!) from the Pineapple Hut – perfect on a hot day!

Charleston Food Tour

Charlestonians are extremely passionate about their local food, city, and its history. Why not combine all three and go on a food tour? I love taking food tours whenever I travel – I always discover new dishes I never even heard of, and always get great insight into the local way of life.

Some of the foods you might get to try on a Charleston food tour include mouth-watering shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, crispy fried green tomatoes, lowcountry barbecue, artisanal charcuterie, craft beer, delectable chocolates, Charleston benne wafers, southern pralines, and more.

This tour stays near The Historic District, while this food tour explores a lesser-known neighborhood. Both great options!

Luxury Dinner Boat Cruise

How’s a relaxing dinner cruise on Charleston Harbor sound?! 

The boat looks so super chic and romantic – perfect for a night out on the town, err… water!, with your loved one. You’ll feast on a 3-course Southern meal, all while cruising through the beautiful Charleston Harbor, past Fort Sumter, along the Battery and beneath the Ravenel Bridge. My kinda night!

Angel Oak Tree

The Angel Oak Tree is a famous landmark located on Johns Island, just outside of Charleston.

This gnarly oak has been around for at least four centuries, making it one of the oldest living trees in the world. Add it to your Charleston itinerary if you wanna gawk at this natural wonder, take selfies, and soak up the tree’s tranquil energy. 

The Angel Oak Tree is basically the Mick Jagger of trees – old, famous, and still standing strong! It’s super impressive, standing at over 60 feet tall and with a canopy that stretches over 17,000 square feet. Its trunk measures over 28 feet in circumference, and its branches span outwards in all directions, perfect for wild photos! Great for an afternoon stroll through the shaded canopy.

Cypress Gardens

Cypress Gardens is a gorgeous botanical garden in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, about 45 minutes northwest of Charleston. And yes, this is where The Notebook was filmed! 

The gardens were created back in 1927 by a guy named Benjamin Kittredge, and opened to the public a few years later. It’s located on an old rice plantation and is full of cypress trees, azaleas, and other native plants. 

One of the coolest things about Cypress Gardens is the swamp area. You can stroll along boardwalks over dark waters and see all kinds of critters like alligators, turtles, and lots of Spanish moss. You can even take a little boat ride through the swamp to get a closer look.

If I had another day on my Charleston itinerary this is the spot I totally would’ve added. The whole area looks so incredibly charming and peaceful! Perfect when you wanna get out of the busy city for a morning!

Hope this helps you plan the best 3 day weekend in Charleston itinerary! What are you most excited to see, and more importantly eat?!

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