Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, attracts visitors with its sophistication, pleasant weather and aesthetic beauty. It is known as a city of Southern affluence and history, with architecture that dates back to the 16th century and mingles Greek Revival with Lowcountry charm. The Charleston area boasts more than 2,500 historic buildings in many different styles, from Colonial, Georgian and Federal to Italianate, Victorian and Art Deco.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Charleston International Airport is the main gateway into Charleston. All ground transportation is located outside the baggage claim end of the terminal. Taxis charge a $15 minimum fee from the airport; you will be quoted a rate based upon destination. Car rental, Uber and Lyft are all available at the airport. In the downtown area, hop on free DASH Shuttles to get around.
Taxis, water taxis and rideshares are also available. Charleston is one of the most walkable cities, a great way to admire the charm and beauty of its streets.
LODGING The Dewberry Charleston
Settle in for luxury and Old Charleston hospitality at The Dewberry, featuring 155 well-appointed guestrooms, world-class service and unparalleled views. Enjoy cocktails in The Living Room, the views from the rooftop Citrus Club and treatments at The Spa using Lowcountry botanicals.
334 Meeting St., Charleston, SC 29403, tel 843 558 8000 thedewberrycharleston.com
Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston
Ready to abandon the real world? From the art-filled atrium to the bold statement furniture, from the garden rooftop venue to the wine blending experience, the Grand Bohemian curates an artful escape. Add luxurious guestrooms, and this is no ordinary stay.
55 Wentworth St., Charleston, SC 29401, tel 843 722 5711 marriott.com
The Spectator Hotel
Jazz Age glamour meets Old South charm at this chic boutique hotel in Charleston’s historic district. Expect luxurious linens, spa-like bathrooms, butler service, in-room gourmet continental breakfast and complimentary bicycles to borrow.
67 State St., Charleston, SC 29401, tel 843 724 4326 thespectatorhotel.com
DINING Charleston Grill
The acclaimed Charleston Grill features a fusion of Southern, French and contemporary cuisines served with nightly live jazz accompaniment. From the impeccable service to the 1,100-label wine list, the Grill is a Charleston favorite. Reservations suggested.
224 King St., Charleston, SC 29401, tel 843 577 4522 charlestongrill.com
Élevé
Élevé infuses each artfully prepared dish with fresh herbs and seasonings. The rooftop garden setting makes the perfect place to refresh and unwind at the end of the day with a specialty cocktail and light fare, surrounded by spectacular city views.
Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston, 55 Wentworth St., Charleston, SC 29401, tel 843 724 4144 elevecharleston.com
Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ
It’s pulled-pork heaven at Whole Hog. The James Beard award-winning pitmaster respects the time and technique it takes to make great barbecue, cooking long and slow over glowing hardwood embers. The results are nothing short of finger-lickin’ good.
1011 King St., Charleston, SC 29403, tel 843 990 9535 rodneyscottsbbq.com
ATTRACTIONS Charleston City Market
Jive to live music while you peruse the handicrafts, from fine art to jewelry to home goods. For a true take-home treasure, seek out the basket ladies who continue a 300-year Charleston tradition of weaving sweetgrass baskets, a beautiful handicraft of African origin.
188 Meeting St., Charleston, SC 29401, tel 843 937 0920 thecharlestoncitymarket.com
Gibbes Museum of Art
Charleston’s only visual arts museum gives visitors a true sense of the city’s rich cultural heritage. The collection spans four centuries of American art that incorporates the history of Charleston and the American South.
135 Meeting St., Charleston, SC 29401, tel 843 722 2706 gibbesmuseum.org
South Carolina Aquarium
Devoted to education and conservation, the awardwinning aquarium is home to thousands of animals and plants native to the state including river otters, loggerhead sea turtles, sharks, alligators, seahorses, jellyfish and more.
100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, tel 843 577 3474 scaquarium.org