Destinations
The Complete Charleston Guide
Where old money meets new food, and hospitality is still treated as a calling.
Low country charm, world-class restaurants, and hospitality that hasn't gone anywhere in three hundred years. The complete Charleston list: where to eat, sleep, shop, and spend the day.
Where to Eat
167 RAW
193 King Street, French Quarter · 843 579 4997 · 167raw.com
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
One of the most popular restaurants in Charleston, 167 RAW is always packed to the brim, even though reservations are not allowed so you have to risk walking in. But trust us, it's worth it. The seafood is the freshest around and the dishes are perfection.
BOWENS ISLAND
1870 Bowens Island Road, Folly Beach, 29412 · 843 795 2757 · bowensisland.com
Great for: DINNER
This hole-in-the-wall is a Charleston institution, and for good reason. Located right on a creek off the Atlantic Ocean, the fresh seafood is unreal, and locals and travelers both converge to get a taste — the oysters are the biggest draw. It's also the perfect stop after a day on nearby Folly Beach.
BUTCHER & BEE
1085 Morrison Drive, North Central, 29403 · 843 619 0202 · butcherandbee.com
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
Recently opened in a new space with industrial-chic vibes, Butcher & Bee focuses on locally sourced food with Middle Eastern influences and is known for its killer sandwiches. This new spot is bigger and has more parking — just don't forget to BYOB. Also visit sister restaurant The Daily at 652b King Street for breakfast, pastries, and grab-and-go.
EDMONDS OAST
1081 Morrison Drive, North Central, 29403 · 843 727 1145 · edmundsoast.com
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
A favorite among many Charleston foodies. This unique combination of brewery and gastropub offers an elevated menu with a contemporary spin, and the outdoor space is great to let the kids run around while waiting for the meal. Don't skip dessert — the homemade ice cream is a hit.
HALLS CHOPHOUSE
434 King Street, Radcliffeborough, 29403 · 843 727 0090 · hallschophouse.com
Great for: BRUNCH, DINNER
The famous Sunday brunch with gospel choir is an amazing experience you won't want to miss if looking for a true Southern experience. Very kid-friendly, as it is family-owned, and also a great spot for a night on the town while enjoying delicious steak, seafood, and vegetable dishes in the elegant setting.
HOME TEAM BARBECUE
126 Williman Street, NoMa, 29403 · 843 225 7427 · hometeambbq.com
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
Home Team is the BBQ spot that even the locals can't stay away from. The menu offers pulled pork, smoked wings, mac and cheese, and more. Home Team's good food and casual vibe make for a great afternoon or evening the whole family will enjoy. If you love it as much as we do, bring their dry rub home with you.
HUSK
76 Queen Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 577 2500 · huskrestaurant.com
Great for: BRUNCH, DINNER
James Beard Foundation loves Chef Sean Brock, and for great reason. He is famous for his Southern cuisine and won't allow any ingredients through the door if they don't come from the South. Take the kids for lunch and order burgers, or call a sitter at night and enjoy a meal on the balcony.
INDACO
526 King Street, Radcliffeborough, 29403 · 843 727 1228 · indacocharleston.com
Great for: DINNER
This rustic Italian spot is exactly the reason we started writing our guides — chic restaurants with great food and drinks, busy enough that kids blend in with the crowd. Plus a great patio looking out onto King Street.
LEON'S OYSTER SHOP
698 King Street, North Central, 29403 · 843 531 6500 · leonsoystershop.com
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
For a wide variety of oysters, seafood, and fried chicken, head to Leon's, which has won numerous awards since its opening. The rustic setting has exposed brick walls, contemporary lighting fixtures, and a hip clientele — but don't let that stop you from bringing the kids. It's the perfect place for all ages.
MAGNOLIAS
185 East Bay Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 577 7771 · magnoliascharleston.com
Great for: BRUNCH, LUNCH, DINNER
A local favorite and iconic fine dining spot, Magnolias is the place to head for upscale Southern dishes. Featured in tons of publications and the recipient of many awards. Weekend brunch is a particularly lovely time to visit.
MILLERS ALL DAY
120 King Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 501 7342 · millersallday.com
Great for: ALL DAY BREAKFAST
All day breakfast, need we say more? The photo-worthy interiors transport you back to an old-fashioned pharmacy, complete with soda fountain. Take photos in the photo booth or enjoy homemade grits, created by an antique grit mill right in the front window.
POOGAN'S PORCH
72 Queen Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 577 2337 · poogansporch.com
Great for: BRUNCH, DINNER
Everyone in Charleston goes to Poogan's Porch — residents, tourists, students, families. Sit on one of the double porches of this charming former home overlooking Queen Street and enjoy the most Southern moment you'll have in Charleston. Order the famous buttermilk fried chicken or she-crab soup. Brunch is served every single day.
POST HOUSE INN
101 Pitt Street, Mount Pleasant, 29464 · 843 203 7678 · theposthouseinn.com
Great for: BRUNCH, LUNCH, DINNER
Charleston's premier brunch spot is located a short drive over the bridge in Mt. Pleasant, and features top-notch people watching, bloody marys, and dishes sourced from local farms. Located in a cozy inn, this coastal tavern is one of our favorite spots.
SNOB
192 East Bay Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 723 3424 · snobcharleston.com
Great for: BRUNCH, LUNCH, DINNER
SNOB, standing for Slightly North of Broad, has been around forever but has managed to stay popular with locals despite the appeal to tourists. With a charmingly colorful interior, a beautiful bar, and classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, it's sure to remain popular for many years to come.
TACO BOY
217 Huger Street, North Central, 29403 · 106 East Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach, 29439 · 843 789 3333 · tacoboy.net
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
With two locations — one in downtown Charleston and the original on Folly Beach — Taco Boy attracts a wide variety of locals and tourists with its authentic Mexican food, lively atmosphere, and outdoor seating. It's okay to be loud and rambunctious here; so are the adults.
THE GROCERY
4 Cannon Street, Cannonborough-Elliotborough, 29403 · 843 302 8825 · thegrocerycharleston.com
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
The farm-to-table dishes at The Grocery are hard to beat — spacious dining area, friendly staff, a seasonally changing menu, and a healthy yet appetizing kids' menu. The creative cocktails are a must, and the contemporary setting just off upper King Street makes for a fun evening stroll from downtown hotels.
THE OBSTINATE DAUGHTER
2063 Middle Street, Sullivan's Island, 29482 · 843 416 5020 · theobstinatedaughter.com
Great for: BRUNCH, LUNCH, DINNER
You'll need a car or Uber for this one — it's located on Sullivan's Island over the Ravenel Bridge — but we promise it's worth it. The shabby-chic decor is perfect for this spot near the beach, and the food is a delicious mix of creative pastas and pizzas.
THE ORDINARY
544 King Street, Cannonborough-Elliotborough · 843 414 7060 · eattheordinary.com
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
From the team behind Charleston's number one restaurant FIG comes its seafood counterpart, The Ordinary. Housed in an old bank, the two-story space is bustling and sophisticated yet casual and comfortable. Kids are right at home in the booths. The oyster sliders are not to be missed.
XIAO BAO BISCUIT
224 Rutledge Avenue, Cannonborough-Elliotborough, 29403 · 843 743 3880 · xiaobaobiscuit.com
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
Hipsters and locals converge at this Asian-inspired hot spot to enjoy innovative dishes and cold beer in a former gas station setting. The outdoor seating provides a great atmosphere for kids — ask for the sticky rice off the menu, and order the chicken if they're being picky.
Date Night
CHEZ NOUS
6 Payne Court, Cannonborough-Elliotborough, 29403 · 843 579 3060 · cheznouschs.com
Great for: LUNCH, DINNER
One of our absolute favorite restaurants in Charleston. Located in a small, rustic-chic house down an alley, crowds gather nightly trying to score a coveted table at this no-reservations spot, which only offers two appetizers, two entrees, and two desserts per meal. Check their Instagram for the daily-changing menu — most likely you will love what they have.
FIG
232 Meeting Street, Ansonborough, 29401 · 843 805 5900 · eatatfig.com
Great for: DINNER
When your Charleston friends say FIG is their favorite restaurant, you run directly there (after making a reservation weeks in advance, of course). The restaurant — which stands for Food Is Good — is a well-known foodie destination with a vibrant atmosphere and brilliant farm-to-table dishes.
LE FARFALLE
15 Beaufain Street, Harleston Village, 29401 · 843 212 0920 · lefarfallecharleston.com
Great for: DINNER
A charming Italian osteria tucked away in Harleston Village, just a block off of King Street. Don't let its off-grid location fool you — this spot is a favorite among locals. From creative cocktails to hand-rolled pastas, the menu will transport you to the Italian coast.
PENINSULA GRILL
112 N. Market Street, Ansonborough, 29401 · 843 723 0700 · peninsulagrill.com
Great for: DINNER
Save this Charleston institution for a special occasion. The Peninsula Grill at the beautiful Planters Inn is a gem, with tables in the charming courtyard and a sophisticated Southern menu that anyone would love. Don't forget the famous coconut cake for dessert.
Where to Stay
CHARLESTON PLACE
205 Meeting Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 722 4900 · charlestonplace.com
In a city of small hotels and bed and breakfasts, Charleston Place is a large, well-known hotel set in the heart of downtown. Featuring 440 rooms and suites, guests always receive a true luxury experience. A large marble lobby with grand staircase leads to classically decorated rooms overlooking the city, many with small French balconies. The hotel features the popular Charleston Grill restaurant — a great choice for fine dining with children especially for Sunday brunch — plus a spa, the Palmetto Cafe, and the Thoroughbred Club serving appetizers and desserts with live music. Ground-floor shopping includes outposts of St. John and Louis Vuitton.
MARKET PAVILION HOTEL
225 East Bay Street, Ansonborough, 29401 · 843 723 0500 · marketpavilionhotel.com
Situated in a gorgeous French-inspired building just next to the City Market and a block from the harbor. With its black-and-white marble lobby and luxurious rooms with mahogany beds, guests feel pampered from the moment they step inside. The hotel features Grill 225 for steak and seafood, and the real clincher: a rooftop pool with restaurant and bar. Views are unparalleled, and during the day you can order pizza and wine under an umbrella while the kids swim.
THE DEWBERRY
334 Meeting Street, Mazyck-Wraggborough, 29403 · 843 558 8000 · thedewberrycharleston.com
The designers embraced the mid-century building to create a modern version of the 1960s style — anyone who loved Mad Men will feel right at home. Those who appreciate good hospitality will too: never met without a smiling face or a gifted balloon. The location is perfectly central to the new foodie restaurants of upper King Street and the famous mansions downtown. The spa, bicycles, buzzy bar, and popular restaurant seal the deal.
THE RESTORATION
75 Wentworth Street, King Street Historic District, 29401 · 843 518 5100 · therestorationhotel.com
A modern retreat in a historic city. From its rooftop pool and restaurant to its New York-style loft suites with kitchens, families feel quite comfortable with all the space and amenities. Perched right above King Street, its proximity to stores, restaurants, and attractions is ideal for those with strollers. Guests love the complimentary breakfast brought to the room in a basket. The washers and dryers in each suite are a huge bonus.
THE SPECTATOR
67 State Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 724 4326 · thespectatorhotel.com
Once proclaimed the number one hotel in the continental U.S. by Travel + Leisure, The Spectator is a no-brainer for those seeking an unparalleled luxury boutique experience. Butler service, modern décor with marble bathrooms, suites with balconies, and a bar that has become one of the chicest destinations in the city. Just one block from Charleston's downtown market — a great starting point for walking the historic city, world-class shopping, or the best restaurants in America. Bicycles provided.
WENTWORTH MANSION
149 Wentworth Street, Harleston Village, 29401 · 888 466 1886 · wentworthmansion.com
A historic house built in 1886 and converted into a 5-star hotel in 1997. The interior is a nod to the gilded age — period furniture, a gorgeous mahogany staircase, and stained glass windows under double-height ceilings in an intimate, serene setting. Ours were welcomed with open arms, and the oversized rooms mean you never feel like you're bothering anyone. Fine dining restaurant Circa 1886, complimentary breakfast, evening hors d'oeuvres and wine, and late-night port, sherry, and brandy round out the experience. Consistently voted one of the top small hotels in America.
ZERO GEORGE
0 George Street, Ansonborough, 29401 · 843 817 7900 · zerogeorge.com
Bright, cozy rooms housed in buildings from the 1800s — you can really feel the history of Charleston surrounding you. Its welcoming porches transport you back to another time, while the award-winning cuisine keeps you coming back. Sign up for the cooking school if food is what you love. Other amenities include bikes, Callie's Biscuits in the morning, and a wine and cheese service to greet you in the evening.
Where to Shop
DESIGNS BY JANE
188 Meeting Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 871 4331 · dbjcharleston.com
Smocked clothing, toys, and gifts.
ELLIFOX
1662 Savannah Highway, Suite 260, West Ashley, 29407 · 843 800 2942 · ellifox.com
Our Charleston friends all rave about this kids' clothing store.
KIDS ON KING
310 King Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 720 8647 · kidsonking.com
Upscale children's clothing in a cute space.
LAKE PAJAMAS
153 King Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 805 8150 · lakepajamas.com
Adorable sleepwear for the whole family.
SOUTHERN BELLES
280 West Coleman Boulevard, Northcutt Plaza, Mt. Pleasant, 29464 · 843 881 1741 · southernbelleschildren.com
Smocked outfits across the bridge in Mt. Pleasant.
SUGAR BAKESHOP
59½ Cannon Street, Cannonborough-Elliotborough, 29403 · 843 579 2891 · sugarbake.com
With a name that includes "sugar" and "bakeshop," do we need to say more? Your kids will love this come snack time.
WILDFLOUR PASTRY
1750 Savannah Highway, West Ashley, 29407 · 843 327 2621 · wildflourpastrycharleston.com
Pastries, cakes, cupcakes, and more from a well-known chef.
AMANDA LINDROTH
445 King Street, Radcliffeborough, 29403 · 843 371 1581 · amandalindroth.com
Island-inspired home goods and decor.
CALLIE'S HOT LITTLE BISCUIT
476½ King Street, Radcliffeborough, 29403 · 843 737 5159 · calliesbiscuits.com
One of our favorite breakfast grab-and-go's for incredible biscuits.
COPPER PENNY
311 King Street, 29401 · 843 723 2999 · shopcopperpenny.com
Women's designer clothing and footwear that teenagers will also love.
CROGHANS
308 King Street, 29401 · 843 723 3594 · croghansjewelbox.com
Jewelry, estate jewelry, bridal, and gifts.
FIELDSHOP BY GARDEN & GUN
The Dewberry Hotel, Mazyck-Wraggborough, 29403 · 843 872 9073 · ggfieldshop.com
A perfectly curated collection of Garden & Gun magazine–inspired home goods, accessories, and jewelry.
FINICKY FILLY
303 King Street, 29401 · 843 534 0203 · thefinickyfilly.com
Luxurious womenswear, plus the Brown Box Club that delivers curated outfits right to your door.
GOAT.SHEEP.COW
106 Church Street, South of Broad, 29401 · 843 480 2526 · goatsheepcow.com
Adorable gourmet cheese shop in the historic South of Broad neighborhood.
HAMPDEN CLOTHING
314 King Street, 29401 · 843 724 6373 · hampdenclothing.com
Hip women's designer clothing in a modern space.
HARKEN CAFE
62 Queen Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 718 3626 · harkencafe.com
Quaint café tucked away on Queen Street.
IBU
183B King Street, Second Floor, 29401 · 843 327 8304 · ibumovement.com
Chic clothing, accessories, and home décor from artisans around the world.
KING STREET
All the clothing, gift, and accessory stores you can handle. The best shopping street in Charleston.
MADISON MATTHEWS
178 King Street, 29401 · 843 952 7739 · shopmadisonmathews.com
Adorable tunics, dresses, and bedding in cute patterns.
RTW
186 King Street, 29401 · 843 577 9748 · rtwcharleston.com
Very high-end women's designer clothing.
SHIRTINI
192 King Street, 29401 · 843 259 5243 · shirtini.com
Modern, perfectly tailored menswear-inspired shirts for women.
What to Do
ARTHUR RAVENEL JR. BRIDGE
Charleston Harbor
A walk across the Charleston Harbor is not to be missed. The views of the city skyline and the Cooper River are spectacular from both directions.
BOONE HALL
1235 Long Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, 29464 · 843 884 4371 · boonehallplantation.com
Hands-on activities at a former plantation featuring historic décor, scenic grounds, and strawberry picking in season.
CHARLESTON OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
1871 Bowens Island Road, Bowens Island, 29412 · 843 795 0330 · charlestonoutdooradventures.com
Kayak and paddleboard rentals, boat tours, and fishing charters for the whole family.
CHARLESTON WATER TAXI
10 Wharfside Street, Ansonborough, 29401 · 843 330 2989 · charlestonwatertaxi.com
Take a water tour for amazing views of the Charleston skyline and the harbor.
CHARLES TOWNE LANDING
1500 Old Towne Road, Old Town, 29407 · 843 852 4200 · southcarolinaparks.com/charles-towne-landing
Climb aboard a replica ship, run around under moss-covered live oaks, and see the mini zoo featuring a bear, red wolves, and otters.
CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF THE LOWCOUNTRY
25 Ann Street, Radcliffeborough, 29403 · 843 853 8962 · explorecml.org
So many fun activities — a mini supermarket, a ship to captain, and more. A great rainy-day option.
FORT SUMTER
340 Concord Street, Liberty Square, 29401 · 800 789 3678 · fortsumtertours.com
Take a 30-minute boat ride to this Civil War–era fort and let the kids explore the grounds and learn the history.
GIBBES MUSEUM OF ART
135 Meeting Street, 29401 · 843 722 2706 · gibbesmuseum.org
Charleston's premier art museum, offering a wide variety of programs for kids, family guides, and activity packs.
HAZEL PARKER PLAYGROUND
70 East Bay Street, South of Broad, 29401
A nice playground in downtown Charleston near the harbor and the mansions of East Bay Street.
HORSE-AND-CARRIAGE TOURS
City Market Area, Downtown
Head to the market area to reserve a one-hour private tour of downtown Charleston. A magical way to see the historic architecture and hear the city's stories.
ISLE OF PALMS COUNTY PARK
14th Avenue, Isle of Palms, 29451 · ccprc.com
Lifeguards on the beach, public restrooms, and chair and umbrella rentals, just next to Sullivan's Island across the bridge from downtown.
MAGNOLIA PLANTATION AND GARDENS
3550 Ashley River Road, North Charleston, 29414 · 843 571 1266 · magnoliaplantation.com
Our favorite spot for kids — a petting zoo with deer, goats, peacocks, and ponies, plus train and boat rides through the stunning grounds.
MIDDLETON PLACE PLANTATION
4300 Ashley River Road, North Charleston, 29414 · 843 556 6020 · middletonplace.org
Tour this 18th-century plantation with house and gardens, and visit the plantation stableyards with the kids.
PATRIOTS POINT
40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, 29464 · 843 884 2727 · patriotspoint.org
Tour a huge naval ship and museum on the water — a hit with kids of all ages.
SOUTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM
100 Aquarium Wharf, Ansonborough, 29401 · 843 577 3474 · scaquarium.org
A wide variety of sea creatures, reptiles, and a bald eagle, plus an IMAX theatre and the chance to spot dolphins swimming in the harbor.
THE BEACHES
Folly Beach and Sullivan's Island
Folly Beach in one direction has lots of tourists, restaurants, and an exciting pier. Sullivan's Island in the other direction is quieter, with more families and a more relaxed pace.
THE OLD EXCHANGE AND PROVOST DUNGEON
122 East Bay Street, French Quarter, 29401 · 843 727 2165 · oldexchange.org
This historic museum is full of interesting history. The tour is slightly long for those under 8, but it's still really fun to see the pirates in the dungeon.
WATERFRONT PARK
1 Vendue Range, French Quarter, 29401 · charlestonparkconservancy.org
Located on Charleston Harbor, there are swings for kids and fountains to splash in. A lovely spot to end an afternoon walk through the historic district.
