Downtown Charleston is charming & full of life! Looking to get your feet wet as a Charlestonian? Check out a few of the iconic landmarks below!
Rainbow Row: Rainbow Row is the name for a series of colorful historic houses in Downtown Charleston. The houses are located north of Tradd St. and south of Elliot St. on East Bay Street (Pro Tip: Type in "Rainbow Row on Maps). It is referred to as Rainbow Row for the pastel colors used to paint all of the houses. It is a common tourist attraction and is one of the most photographed parts of Charleston.
Pineapple Fountain: This is a personal favorite spot to us - it is where we got engaged! The Pineapple Fountain is a focal point of the Charleston Waterfront Park - facing the infamous Ravenel bridge & Charleston Harbor. Pineapple motifs are common in Charleston and represent hospitality.
The Historic Charleston City Market: Established in 1804, City Market is one of the nation's oldest public markets & the cultural heart of Charleston. They are home to more than 300 talented artists & craftspeople selling authentic Charleston souvenirs and collectibles.
King Street Shopping: Bars, restaurants, shopping - the works! King Street is one of the most loved streets in Charleston. It is bustling with people & activities. If you are looking for food & drink recommendations, keep scrolling. As for shopping, hang out on the area of King Street closest to Marion Park. You will find plenty of boutiques & unique gift shops around this area.
Our Favorite Spots for... Drinks!
1. Rooftop: Vendue, Pavillion, Revelry (Beer), Little Palm, Citrus Club
2. Dive Bar: Recovery Room, Royal American
3. Cocktail/Wine (Upscale): Hall's Chophouse
4. Cocktail/Wine (Casual): Felix, Bourbon & Bubbles, Vintage
5. Dessert 'Tini: Carmella's Dessert Bar
Our Favorite Spots for.... Oysters!
1. Chubby Fish: Top spot for Seafood themed bites (Walk-in Only)
2. Leon's Oyster Shop: Upscale shed known for Fried Chicken, Roasted Oysters, Champagne & Miller High Lifes! (Res Required, Walk-in for Bar)
3. The Darling: Long bar slinging Seafood Platters, Lobster Rolls, and Palomas on tap! (Res Required, Walk-in for Bar)
4. 167 Raw: Scene-y seafood bar known for raw dishes & cocktails (Walk-in Only)
Our Favorite Spots for.... BBQ!
1. Lewis Barbecue - Maybe the best BBQ in South Carolina! Be prepared to stand on line, but you can enjoy a brew while you wait
2. Home Team BBQ - Frozen Cocktails and approachable BBQ with a young atmosphere
3. Rodney Scott's - For those who have watched Chef's Table on Netflix, this is your place! For those who prefer Pulled Pork (Scott's ranks supreme) over Brisket & Hot Guts (Lewis)
Our Favorite Spots for... A Splurge!
1. Hall's Chophouse - A personal favorite of the bride and groom. Expensive, but splurge worthy! Book 90 days in advance
2. Sushi Wa - 10 seat Omakase bar serving the best fish in town
3. Fig - The most well known for those tracking the rise of low-country cuisine
There are two main beaches you'll want to check out in Charleston. Each are a short drive from Downtown!
Sullivan's Island: Quaint beach town, with a tiny main street. Park your car by any beach entrance and find yourself a plot of sand to lay on. Soak up some sun, then head to HomeTeam. Order a Game Changer to drink (WARNING: Strong) and some BBQ - beach attire welcomed!
Folly Beach: More lively, populated beach down on the opposite side of Downtown (from Sullivan's). Same deal - grab a parking spot anywhere and hit the beach! After a long day in the sun, head to Chico Feo or Taco Boy for some margs and tacos!
Mount Pleasant is located just over the Ravenel Bridge from Downtown Charleston. It is one of Caroline's favorite towns (particularly because she lived there). If you decide to venture over to Mt. P, make a day out of it!
Sullivan's Island: We've already discussed this beach a little bit above. It is one of our favorite spots! There is a little strip of bars & restaurants on Main Street. Fuel up & head to the beach (or vice versa)!
Shem Creek: Shem Creek is a fun experience! Waterfront bars & restaurants line the creek - and bring the party. Head to Saltwater Cowboys, Red's Icehouse, or Tavern & Table, grab a drink, & enjoy live music with a view. You might even see some dolphins! Pro Tip: Uber to this area - parking is limited.
Mount Pleasant Towne Center: Mt. P Towne Center is home to endless shopping options. If you are a boutique girlie, head this way ASAP! There is a great seating selection for the men.