Charleston Travel Guide
Feb 18, 2026
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My family recently took a trip just three hours away to the gorgeous city of Charleston, SC and compiled this Charleston Travel Guide based on our amazing trip! You can expect this guide will tell you all the best options for lodging, dining, and entertainment during your travels!
Charleston is often called a “living museum” because of its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, churches, and well-preserved historic district. Walking around feels like stepping back in time, with colorful Rainbow Row, horse-drawn carriages, and sites like Fort Sumter. There is so much to enjoy!
Table of Contents
Where to Stay in Charleston
Hotel Bennett – This luxury and upscale option has a gorgeous design, excellent amenities (rooftop pool, spa), perfect location on King Street.
Wentworth Mansion – The Wentworth is a boutique hotel with historic charm. It is romantic, intimate, full of character, stay here feels like staying in a historic home.
Emeline – Walkable and mid-range cost wise option that has a great balance: nice rooms, good service, and very walkable to many restaurants & sights.
The Charleston Place – Iconic big landmark hotel in Charleston is a classic accommodation, grand style in historic district; very well known.
The Dewberry – Quieter luxury option that is stylish, upscale, somewhat tucked away but still easy to get to the main attractions.
Where to Eat in Charleston
Circa 1886 ($$$)- High end, romantic, creative Southern cuisine. Excellent service and a refined atmosphere.
FIG ($$$) – Stands for “Food is Good” Seasonal ingredients, sophisticated but not stuffy; one of Charleston’s best for thoughtful modern American / Lowcountry cooking.
Magnolias ($$$) – Upscale Southern classics done with quality and flair; good if you want tradition and elegance.
Iron Rose ($$) – Stylish setting, nice Southern twist on staples, great for brunch or dinner with ambiance.
Bintü Atelier ($$) – Offers African-inspired cuisine; a chance to try something different in Charleston.
Berkeley’s ($)- Great sandwiches; good food, reasonable prices; a local casual favorite.
Queen Street Grocery ($)- Nice spot for a light lunch — paninis, crepes, etc., inexpensive and convenient.
The Co-op ($) – The frose and eatery serves gormet sandwiches, cheap coffee, and world famous frose!
What to Do in Charleston
Stroll through the Historic District – Cobblestone streets, colorful homes, and centuries-old architecture make it feel like an open-air museum.
Visit Rainbow Row – This iconic row of pastel homes is one of Charleston’s most photographed spots.
Waterfront Park & Pineapple Fountain – A perfect place to relax with harbor views, family photos, and a breezy Charleston vibe.
Explore The Battery & White Point Garden – Beautiful harborfront promenade lined with antebellum mansions and historic cannons.
Tour Fort Sumter National Monument – Where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, combining history with stunning harbor boat rides.
Charleston City Market – A lively marketplace with local crafts, art, and traditional sweetgrass baskets.
Nearby Beach Options
Folly Beach – Laid-back surf town vibe with wide beaches and a fun pier.
Sullivan’s Island – Quieter beach with history (Fort Moultrie) and charming local eateries.
Isle of Palms – Family-friendly beach with water sports, dining, and resorts.
Festivals and Experiences
Spoleto Festival USA (May–June) – World-class performing arts festival bringing music, theater, and dance to Charleston.
Charleston Wine + Food Festival (March) – Celebrates Charleston’s incredible culinary scene.
Ghost Tours & Carriage Rides – Fun way to hear spooky legends or explore the city’s past at night.
Seafood Inspired by Charleston
Try these delicious recipes that are inspired by my recent trip to Charleston, SC seafood is so popular there!
More Family Travel
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