10 Spots Not To Miss In Charleston, SC

On the heels of our most recent trip to Charleston,SC I thought I’d share a few of my favorite spots to frequent when we visit. My husband lived in Charleston for several years and I spent a few months down there with him as well — so it’s definitely a special spot for us. The food scene is unreal and it’s hard to keep up with new openings and hot spots there is also so much rich culture and history to check out, art exhibits and galleries not to mention the beaches! I’m excited to share a few of my favorite spots! 1. Sugar Bakeshop: Not only is it the cutest bakery you’ve set eyes on but it has the best cupcakes I’ve tried outside of NYC. You’ll definitely want to stop for a treat while you’re exploring downtown. If you can snag a seat in the courtyard it’s the perfect spot to rest for a few minutes. 

2. The Park Cafe: If the menu doesn’t tempt you alone the decor will in this bright and airy little cafe that’s tucked away from the hustle & bustle of the downtown scene. 

3. Redux Contemporary Art Center: Home to a few of my favorite artists (Lulie Wallace, Teil Duncan, Kate Long Stevenson) it’s certainly the place to go if you’re looking to purchase art while you’re in Charleston and be sure to check out their exhibits while you’re in town. If you happen to be in Charleston on a Friday in March, May, October or December be sure to take advantage of the French Quarter Art Walk — it’s a lively scene and all of the galleries open their doors, have nibbles and the wine is flowing freely. 

4. Sullivan’s Island: Our favorite beach — we even named our dog after it! If you’re visiting Charleston in the warm weather and staying for more than two days I highly suggest taking a trip out to the beach and be sure to pick up a Game Changer at Home Team BBQ and duck into Poe’s Tavern for fish tacos. 

5. Unique Boutiques: Candlefish: This is a new candle shop which not only has their own candle library full of 100 unique scents but also carries gifts and a ton of other candle brands as well. Mac & Murphy is a paper lovers dream, Hampden Clothing is my favorite place to window shop for designer clothing, Roberta Roller Rabbit has the best selection of textiles and prints and Sugar Snap Pea has a wonderful assortment of children’s clothing and toys.  

6. Husk & FIG: So this is a double, but our two favorite dinner restaurants to eat at are Husk and FIG they won’t disappoint! Husk requires reservations many weeks in advance so be sure to book early. 

7. Black Tap Coffee: Really good coffee. I wish we had a comparable spot at home. A great spot to meet a friend, have a casual meeting or just sit at with a book if you’re looking for some down time. 

8. Zero George: Quite possibly the best boutique hotel I’ve stayed at — if you’re truly looking for a special spot to rest your head while in Charleston you really need not look further. The design is beautiful, the courtyards are the perfect spot to enjoy the daily wine & cheese service and the service is unparalleled. The location is ideal – right downtown but tucked away on a quite side street. You can also just stop by for a meal or drink at the bar. 

9. Rainbow Row / The Battery: You could get lost for hours wandering around the side streets downtown (and I suggest it!) but make time to trek over to The Battery for a walk along the water and a look at the beautiful historic homes. 

10. Brunch: You must make time for a Southern brunch! Some places to check out: Fat Hen, Hominy Grill (best biscuit sandwiches), Three Little Birds, and Poogan’s Porch (really good She Crab Soup). 

Images by Melissa Toms from our Mini-Moon in Charleston featured on Style Me Pretty.