Hey there! If you follow me on social media, you probably noticed I spent some time in the lovely city of Charleston a few weeks ago. Coming in as the 2016 #1 World’s Best City according to Travel + Leisure, Charleston quickly became one of my favorite U.S. cities. In fact, I’m already in the works of planning a trip with my boyfriend later this year (fingers crossed).
In addition to EVERYONE being SO friendly (it’s no surprise they were ranked #2 here), Charleston is home to award-winning restaurants, great shopping and is filled with southern charm all-around. Our trip to Charleston was specially tailored around one of my best friend’s bachelorette parties and the city provided us with so much to do and see over a long weekend.
TO STAY
We went back and forth with where to stay with a group of six girls. We knew that regardless of where we stayed, we wouldn’t be there enough to struggle with the selection process of choosing a hotel. We ended up opting for a perfect little Airbnb right outside downtown and loved everything about it! I’m not sure about you guys, but it’s my fourth or fifth time using Airbnb and it always ends up working out perfectly! Jeffrey’s home was the ideal setup for us six girls to make ourselves at home with a ton of unnecessary luggage and lots of wine. The house had the cutest porch with string lights that could have been straight out of Pinterest.
In addition to our Airbnb, there were a few hotels we looked at that were located right in the heart of downtown – Mills House, Belmond Charleston Place and The Spectator Hotel.
TO DO
Candlefish: When exploring a new city, I love to find activities that you can’t do back at home. I found Candlefish through Liz Adams and we had an ABSOLUTE blast. Mimosas, making your own candles AND you get to bring them home? Sign me up! Overall, the experience was one to remember. The group size was perfect and we learned enough to feel accomplished, but not the slightest bit bored! Tip: If you decide to do the class, make sure you do it AT least a day before you head home. After class, the lovely ladies at Candlefish take your candles and make sure they’re perfect to take home with you!
Explore Rainbow Row and Battery Park: The weather was perfect – sunny and blue skies, so we took the time to explore “must see” spots like Rainbow Row, the Pineapple Fountain and the picture perfect waterfront. I’d recommend googling Rainbow Row and getting lost in the beauty of Charleston afterwards!
Go Shopping (duh): Okay…..the shopping in Charleston is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. At the end of the trip, the six of us could not stop talking about how cute everything was (and how much money we spent – whoops!). I’ve listed a few of my favorite boutiques all on or around King Street below!
- Moon and Lola
- Lulu Burgess
- Mac & Murphy
- Hampden Clothing
- The Skinny Dip
- Vestique
TO EAT // DRINK
The food scene in Charleston is pretty awesome! If you’re planning a trip, make sure you do your research ahead of time and book any reservations if needed. A few of our favorites were
Hominy Grill for brunch – they have a perfect outdoor area to have drinks before being seated and enjoying a delicious southern inspired meal. PS: Get the Charleston Nasty Biscuit and thank me later! |Photo cred: @lakeme |
Husk – this one books up fast, so make your reservations well in advance! Spare time before dinner? Grab a drink right next to the restaurant in the carriage house!
The Cocktail Club – this place was PACKED and had an awesome atmosphere! With multiple levels and a rooftop, not to mention the delicious cocktails, this place was a favorite of ours.
The Restoration Hotel – looking for rooftop drinks? We loved exploring this stunning hotel and the views from their rooftop bar and restaurant!
The Darling Oyster Bar – if you can get past their beautiful decor, head to the bar for a handcrafted cocktail!
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit – biscuits served a ton of different ways, need I say more?
Sugar Bakeshop – slightly off the main strip of shops and restaurants (and well worth the walk) is Sugar Bakeshop. Delicious cookies and sweet treats were the perfect afternoon pick-me-up while shopping around.
Regardless of what you do or where you stay in Charleston, you will love everything it has to offer! Make sure to leave your Charleston favorites below!