Hey y'all! It's Sarah from Hello Darling! I've been lucky enough to call Charleston home for almost 3 years now and I cannot wait to share my favorite parts about the holy city!
To me, Charleston is a true southern city, complete with Southern hospitality, quaint streets, rich history, and a slowness that allows you to really appreciate everything this city has to offer. It's no wonder Charleston has been ranked #1 in Travel + Leisure magazine's Best United States Cities list for the seventh consecutive year!
Where to Stay:
Luxury at the heart of downtown Charleston! This is actually my parents' first choice when visiting me! Surrounded by various shops and dining experiences, this beautiful hotel offers both a great location and high quality service.
With multiple locations within walking distance of King Street, these charming, restored historic Charleston homes, are perfect for big groups who want a bit more privacy. And seriously any place with a pink door has my approval!
86 Cannon, a boutique inn nestled in the heart of Charleston, is on the top of my list for a staycation. The property is both elegant and classic, really embodying Southern luxury. Did I also mention how cute their welcome squad is?
Where To Eat
Breakfast/Lunch
Callie's Hot Little Biscuit - Famous in Charleston and for good reason! Actual biscuit heaven! If the line on King is too long, they have another location within the Charleston Market that not as many people know about!
Dinner
The Ordinary - I don't think there's been a time my parents have come to visit and we haven't eaten here - that's how good it is!
Drinks
The Watch - Complete with a beautiful view of the church steeples and Ravenel bridge, it's a great place to watch the sunset!
Citrus Club - A tropical-themed rooftop bar in Charleston? Yes, please!
Things To Do:
Downtown Stroll
Perhaps one my favorite activities is taking a leisurely stroll around the downtown historic district with Duke and soaking up all of Charleston's beauty! With palm trees lining the water, and large colorful, historic homes, everywhere you turn, it's so nice to slow down and just enjoy. The Battery, Rainbow Row and Tradd Street are definitely my top picks for those "quintessential" Charleston photo ops. Waterfront Park, right off of Rainbow Row, is another favorite complete with the famous Pineapple Fountain! And I could never forget Hampton Park with it's abundance of Spanish moss and wonderful flowers! You really can't go wrong when finding an amazing place for an afternoon stroll.
The gardens were actually selected as one of the most beautiful gardens in the U.S!
Apparently America's most photographed plantation!
Folly Beach or Sullivan's Island
Both beaches are the perfect escape from the often scorching heat of downtown Charleston. My personal favorite is Sullivan's Island, located only 10 miles from the city itself! Sullivan's beautiful and quaint island town has a gorgeous natural beach with a rich history and is definitely one of Duke and my favorite places to spend the day.
Shopping
Lake Pajamas - Their first ever retail location!
Candlefish - A gorgeous candle shop that even hosts candle-making classes!
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Sarah is a Northern girl with a bit of Southern charm. She moved to Charleston from NYC and is living her best southern life with her dog, Duke. You can find her sharing more about Charleston on Instagram @hellodarling_sarah or on her blog.