Charleston Travel | Keytours Vacations

Discover Charleston's Wonders

Experience the charm of a historic Southern City combined with the contemporary vibes of South Carolina's coastal culture. With its second-to-none restaurant scene, beautiful oceanfront resorts and enduring cultural roots, the Holy City is a haven for history buffs and beachgoers.

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Description

Charleston has received numerous awards for being an outstanding destination. For three consecutive years, Charleston was named 'Top U.S. City' by “Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards”. Distinguished travel companies such as “Travel + Leisure” and “Southern Living” magazine have given other awards to Charleston. Its people are mannerly and welcoming, showing the very best of southern hospitality to Charleston visitors. Charleston is filled with early 20th-century architecture that is renovated and perfectly maintained. Nowhere is this more evident than at Charleston’s historic King Street. This historic shopping, dining and design district is defined by three distinct areas: the Upper King Street Design and Dining District, the Middle King Street Fashion District and the Lower King Street Antiques District. So, you can find everything you could possibly want, from electronics to crafts. Stroll past many familiar brands along with dozens of unique local retailers. Many are housed in historically significant buildings, a Charleston convergence of old and new. Expect to see many familiar brands like Anthropologie, Apple, Banana Republic and Gap. But also visit the many local establishments that offer a little piece of Charleston to take home with you. Blue Bicycle Books is a local favorite, offering new and used books and supporting local authors. At King Street’s Antiques District, check out George C. Birlant & Co., which has been selling upscale antiques from around the world since 1922.

Useful information

Population:

156,868 (2024)

Currency:

US Dollar, $1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

911

Opening Hours:

Most stores are open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm, or later. Bars and clubs tend to close around 2am.

Do & See

Boone Hall Plantation

The oak trees that line the entrance to Boone Hall Plantation took over 200 years to meet and create the corridor leading to the home. Multiple tours are available that showcase all that happened at Boone Hall Plantation when it was a working residence.

Castle Pinckney

Castle Pinckney is one of America's oldest intact forts that has witnessed a long and storied past from Colonial times through the Confederate period. While it remains closed to public access, boat tours offer a glimpse of this historic landmark.

Charleston Food Tours

Charleston Food Tours is addressed to all food lovers by offering an array of culinary temptations. You have the opportunity to select among several tours depending on your food preferences. During each tour you visit a variety of local restaurants, bakeries and pastry shops characterized by distinctive food and warm hospitality.

Charleston Ghost & Dungeon Tour

This 90-minute walking tour of the dark edges of the Charleston Historic Haunted District will include cemeteries, churches, and back alleyways. Hear narratives passed on through the years of all things haunted in Charleston. After all, a city established as part of the original Thirteen Colonies must have some great and terrifying stories to tell.

Dock Street Theater

The Dock Street Theater is an irreplaceable part of Charleston's artistic life. In 1736, it was opened as the first structure to be built exclusively for performances. Even today, after almost 4 centuries in the heart of Charleston, the theater still hosts many plays like Annie and Charlotte's Web.

Fort Sumter

As the site of the first shots fired during the Civil War, Fort Sumter has a strong place in American History. On a boat ride to Fort Sumter, hear about events that led to the War between the states. After an hour touring Fort Sumter, the boat returns back to either of the two departure locations.

Gibbes Museum of Art

The Gibbes Museum of Art has between 6 and 8 exhibitions every year, including the permanent Charleston Story exhibit. The museum also offers lectures, tours and classes. After its renovation, the museum reopened again in 2016, transforming into an even more vivid cultural hot spot.

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Open to the public since 1870, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens offers boat tours, train tours, a zoo and a nature center. It's America's last large-scale Romantic-style garden, and is the perfect place to host a wedding or other events.

Dining

Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar

Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar is located in the heart of Charleston's Historic District. The bar specializes in sustainable seafood and has a full-service bar with extensive wine, beer and cocktail lists. Addictive and exquisite sea temptations will satisfy even the most sophisticated taste.

BLU Beach Bar & Grill

Located on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean, BLU Restaurant & Bar offers fresh local meals and seasonal specialties in a casual and elegant atmosphere. With the captivating open-air view of the ocean, you can immerse yourself in a lovely and relaxing experience combined with delicately served food.

Brown Dog Deli

At Brown Dog Deli you can choose from fresh, delicious and diverse culinary creations which leave customers satisfied. This creatively designed restaurant with a great vibe is a pleasant spot for lunch or quick dinner in-between sightseeing.

Charleston Grill

Charleston Grill wields a blend of Southern, French, and Contemporary cuisines by Chef Michelle Weaver. Live jazz from The Quentin Baxter Jazz Ensemble plays softly as guests sip from a wine list of nearly 1,300 labels.

Chubby Fish

Chubby Fish changes its menu daily according to the fresh catch made by local fishermen. They offer raw dishes like yellow fin tuna crudo and oysters served with rice vinegar, or grilled mahi-mahi as well as pasta with blue crab meat. They also have discounts on their mollusks during their Oyster Hour, taking place Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm to 6pm.

Circa 1886

Circa 1886 impresses easily with a wine list that boasts close to 280 bottles. The restaurant serves a seasonal menu which spans contemporary cuisine influenced by Charleston’s rich history. You can also take advantage of the regularly updated series of events organized by Circa 1886, which will lift your spirits and serve as excellent entertainment.

Halls Chophouse

Sit down, grab the menu and order the largest steak you can find. This family-owned restaurant is determined to give you the best restaurant experience you can find in the city of Charleston. Halls Chophouse will fascinate you with its good cuisine and a unique atmosphere.

High Cotton Charleston Restaurant

High Cotton Charleston means fine dining in the South's true fashion. Plan your visit to this inviting restaurant where warmth and joviality accompany every dish, and every single bite is full of flavor. Caramelized onion soup, Bibb lettuce salad, High Cotton shrimp & grits, and praline soufflé are just few of the culinary specialties waiting for you. Enjoy a remarkable wine and cocktail menu, as well as their live music, which is every evening and on Saturday and Sunday brunch.

Cafes

Aaron’s Deli

A Hyman establishment since 1890, Aaron’s is a New York-style deli. Sandwiches, po-boys, and huge burgers are all served here, along with some excellent salads. Are you in the mood for some snacks? Stop by here and grab something for breakfast or lunch.

Another Broken Egg Cafe

At Another Broken Egg Cafe, favorite breakfast and brunch classics are served with a southern Lowcountry twist. Located in Charleston's Historic District, the cafe breathes a vaguely French air, which conquers most at first sight.

Carmella's Cafe & Dessert Bar

Here you can enjoy delicious sandwiches, sophisticated desserts, aromatic hot drinks and fantastic cocktails. The sweet temptations will pleasantly surprise you with their great variety. If you want to relax with a cup of nice coffee and a pastry or even eat something savory, this is the place to visit.

Caviar & Bananas — Gourmet Market & Cafe

The Caviar & Bananas experience will touch and delight your senses. The wide variety of specialty foods, including sandwiches, salads, pastries, cookies and many more, allow for a wonderful breakfast and lunch.

Charleston Coffee Exchange

Charleston Coffee Exchange is a coffee shop offering a variety of delightful coffee drinks, with seasonal specialties. You can also add some snacks to the mix, for instance pastries or breakfast sandwiches.

Kaminsky's

Kaminsky's Cafe is a place known for its ability to tempt the passerby. The moment you step inside, you become overwhelmed by the smell of chocolate. The large selection of daily fresh desserts, such as cakes and pies, as well as beverages, make for an abundance of choice. This place is suitable for a romantic date in a stylish ambiance.

Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer

Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer serves freshly roasted coffee and offers over 20 rotating taps. The spacious courtyard is perfect for relaxing. Grab a delicious cup of coffee or beer at Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer and enjoy the social atmosphere of the lovely venue.

Mercantile & Mash

This cozy coffee shop offers a creative and extensive menu featuring wraps, sandwiches, bagels, coffee and smoothies. Check their website to join some of their lessons like 'candle making and more.

Bars & Nightlife

Bay Street Biergarten

Are you longing for a well-cooled mug of amber delight? Your desire can be fulfilled right here. Bay Street provides the atmosphere of a traditional German beer garden developed in southern style. Enjoy Bavarian-influenced cuisine and beers on tap from all around the world.

Pavilion Bar

The swanky Market Pavilion Hotel roof bar is Charleston’s alfresco hot spot. This is a small oasis where you can enjoy the panoramic city, experience its spectacular sunsets and harbor views while sipping on cocktails in the lap of luxury. It's a nice place to sit and take it all in.

The Belmont

The Belmont is a place full of character with a vast selection of hand-crafted cocktails. This swanky cocktail bar is the perfect choice for good wine, food, music and conversation. Black-and-white movies projected up onto the wall forge a one-of-kind atmosphere. Happy Hour is from 5pm to 7pm, Monday to Saturday.

The Cocktail Club

The Cocktail Club is a 1881 residence transformed into a handsome lounge with a rooftop terrace. Craft cocktails are made with artisan infusions, rare spirits, and farm-to-shaker ingredients, not to mention a lot of passion.

The Gin Joint

It goes without saying that the Gin Joint's primary attraction is the gin; however, it has much more to offer. Enjoy a formidable selection of mixed drinks and seasonal cocktails.

Tin Roof

Tin roof is known for always having something fun going on. The bar welcomes you every night with a wide variety of live music and karaoke. Nearly every evening comes with a special theme.

Tommy Condon’s Irish Pub & Seafood Restaurant

The Charleston tradition of Tommy Condon's provides an experience modeled after a true Irish pub. It is a combination of a tranquil daytime atmosphere and dynamic, vibrant nights. There are 20 beers on tap and 15 local and craft brews.

Vendue Inn Rooftop Bar

With a wonderful view of the downtown and a casual feel, this rooftop bar is a real classic, featuring live music that attracts both locals and visitors. It's been voted 'Best Rooftop Bar' repeatedly.

Shopping

Charleston City Market

Open-air sheds and a great hall house over 140 merchants that peddle, among other goods, Lowcountry gifts and souvenirs. Dozens of local artists sell their merchandise here as well.

Citadel Mall

Citadel Mall features 5 major department stores: Belk, Dillard’s, Sears, JCPenney, and Target. There are also over 100 specialty stores, a food court, a 16-screen stadium cinema with IMAX, and an indoor children's play area.

Freshfields Village

Freshfields Village is a mix of independent boutiques, restaurants, and businesses in a pleasant setting, which is also very bike-friendly. Freshfields hosts more than 60 free events annually. It is the perfect spot for family fun and enjoying the green surroundings.

Gwynn's of Mount Pleasant

Since 1967, Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant has been a luxury shopping destination in the Lowcountry, offering the best of modern design and stylish lines in men’s and women’s clothing, as well as accessories. Cosmetics, skincare goods and upscale gifts and home accessories are all offered.

Hampden Clothing

Recognized by Vogue and Marie Claire magazines as one of the top boutiques in the country, Hampden stocks over 60 of the world's leading designers. Rag & Bone, Alexander Wang, and Rebecca Taylor are among the brands featured here.

House of Sage

House of Sage stocks statement clothing that helps express individuality and style. If boho happens to be your thing, this place is a real find. Choose from natural cotton pieces, exquisite denim, and chic accessories.

King Street

Three shopping areas in one, King Street runs through the Design District, the Fashion District, and the Antique District. King Street is a commercial street overflowing with stores, restaurants, bars and many historic buildings. Everything you need for a day out in Charleston.

MIX Boutique

This upscale women's boutique showcases Southern designer collections. Designer clothing, footwear, jewelry, and accessories are all of the highest quality. There are multiple locations in Charleston and beyond.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Charleston, SC, are during the spring months, March to May, and fall from September to November. This is when milder temperatures and lower humidity levels create ideal conditions. In April, temperatures typically range from 10ºC to 20ºC, while November temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from 10ºC to 15ºC. The summer months, from June to August, represent Charleston’s peak season, bringing warmer temperatures and higher humidity. Meanwhile, December through February is the city’s low season, except for the holiday period, given its cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Last but not least, Charleston’s hurricane season typically runs from June 1 to November 30.

Passport/Visa

Citizens of the Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the Kingdom of Brunei can visit the United States for up to 90 days without applying for a visa, as well as citizens of Andorra, Lichtenstein, Monaco and San Marino. Citizens of these countries must obtain an ESTA, Electronic System for Travel Authorization, before traveling. All other travelers must obtain a visa before visiting the United States. International travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the country.

Charleston International Airport (CHS)

Charleston International Airport, located in North Charleston, is South Carolina's largest and busiest airport. Major airlines operating here include Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, American Airlines, Delta, United, and others Numerous taxi and shuttle services are available just outside of the terminal building. CARTA, the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority, offers non-stop bus services to and from downtown Charleston and the airport.

Public Transport

Public transport in Charleston is managed by CARTA, the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority. Downtown Area Shuttles, known as DASH, provide free trolley access to major shops and attractions. Urban areas are also supported by fixed-route buses and mini-buses.

Taxi

Charleston is serviced by both ground and water taxi services. Charleston Cab Company provides reliable land service, while Charleston Water Taxi offers water travel options. Uber and Lyft also operate in the city.

Electricity

All power sockets in the United States provide a standard voltage of 110-120V with a standard frequency of 60Hz. Plug type A has two flat parallel pins.

Pharmacy

There are abundant locations of Walgreen’s, CVS, Walmart, Target, and various independent chain store retailers. One Walgreen's location operates 24/7.

Post

Charleston has plenty of post offices throughout the city. Find the one near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Charleston, South Carolina?

The best time to visit Charleston is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild, and the city hosts numerous festivals and events. Spring is particularly beautiful with blooming azaleas and other flowers, while fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

How many days should I plan to stay in Charleston?

A 3 to 4-day stay in Charleston is ideal to explore the city's historic sites, enjoy its culinary scene, and take a day trip to nearby plantations or beaches. This timeframe allows you to experience the charm of the historic downtown, visit the famous Battery and Rainbow Row, and perhaps take a boat tour to Fort Sumter.

What are the must-see attractions in Charleston?

Charleston offers numerous must-see attractions, including: - The Battery and White Point Garden for historic homes and waterfront views. - Rainbow Row, a series of colorful historic houses. - The Historic Charleston City Market for local crafts and souvenirs. - Fort Sumter National Monument, accessible by boat, where the Civil War began. - Boone Hall Plantation for a glimpse into the region's history.

What is the best way to get around Charleston?

Walking is one of the best ways to explore Charleston's historic downtown, as many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, consider using the DASH trolley, which is free and covers key areas. Renting a bike or using rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also convenient options for getting around the city.

Are there any local dishes or foods I should try in Charleston?

Charleston is known for its Lowcountry cuisine, which includes dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and Lowcountry boil. Be sure to try the local seafood, such as oysters and crab, and enjoy a meal at one of the city's many acclaimed restaurants. Don't miss trying a traditional Southern dessert like pecan pie or a slice of Huguenot torte.

What cultural events or festivals should I consider when visiting Charleston?

Charleston hosts several notable events throughout the year. The Spoleto Festival USA in late spring is a major arts festival featuring performances in theater, opera, and dance. The Charleston Wine + Food Festival in early March celebrates the city's culinary scene. Additionally, the MOJA Arts Festival in the fall highlights African-American and Caribbean arts and culture.

What are some popular day trips from Charleston?

Popular day trips from Charleston include visiting nearby plantations such as Magnolia Plantation and Gardens or Middleton Place, both offering beautiful gardens and historical insights. You can also explore the beaches of Sullivan's Island or Isle of Palms for a relaxing day by the ocean. For a unique experience, consider a trip to Kiawah Island for golfing or nature trails.

Trips

Charleston Pre or Post Cruise

Charleston Christmas Discovery

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