Charleston, SC

Weekend Getaway

The Holy City - Southern Charm at Its Finest

Charleston consistently tops lists as one of America's most beloved cities, and one visit makes it easy to see why. The Historic District enchants with pastel-colored Georgian townhouses along Rainbow Row, secret garden courtyards hidden behind wrought-iron gates, and church steeples that punctuate the skyline at every turn.

The city has become a culinary powerhouse, with James Beard Award-winning chefs elevating Lowcountry cuisine to an art form. From classic shrimp and grits to innovative farm-to-table dining, the food scene alone is worth the trip.

Beyond the city, barrier islands offer pristine beaches, moss-draped plantations tell centuries of complex history, and the surrounding Lowcountry marshlands provide stunning natural beauty. Charleston delivers a rich, layered experience perfect for a long weekend getaway from anywhere in the Southeast.

Essential Information

Quick Facts

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Best Season

Mar-May & Sep-Nov

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Avg Temperature

50-90°F

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Budget Range

$150-400/day

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Drive Time

3-6 hrs from SE hubs

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Known For

Lowcountry Cuisine

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Beaches

Folly, Sullivan's, IOP

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Ideal Trip

3-4 Days

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Best For

Couples & Foodies

Must-Do Activities

Top Experiences

Historic District Walking Tour

Stroll along the Battery promenade, admire the pastel facades of Rainbow Row, peek into hidden courtyards, and explore centuries of history along charming cobblestone streets.

Lowcountry Culinary Tour

Taste your way through Charleston's legendary food scene, from classic she-crab soup and shrimp and grits to innovative dishes at award-winning restaurants like Husk and FIG.

Beach Island Escape

Spend a day at Folly Beach for a laid-back surf vibe, Sullivan's Island for family-friendly shores, or Isle of Palms for a more upscale beach retreat just minutes from downtown.

Plantation & Garden Tours

Visit Magnolia Plantation's stunning gardens, Middleton Place's landscaped grounds, or Boone Hall's iconic avenue of oaks, each offering deep insight into Southern history.

Charleston Harbor Cruise

Sail past Fort Sumter, the Ravenel Bridge, and waterfront mansions on a sunset harbor cruise, sipping cocktails as dolphins play alongside your boat.

King Street Shopping

Browse the boutiques, antique shops, and galleries along upper King Street, then reward yourself with a cocktail at one of the city's acclaimed rooftop bars.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Recommended

Spring (Mar-May)

65-82°F

Perfect weather with blooming gardens and azaleas. Spoleto Festival in late May. Peak season with higher prices but gorgeous conditions for walking tours and outdoor dining.

Recommended

Fall (Sep-Nov)

60-80°F

Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful light. Restaurant Week in September and holiday festivals in November. Hurricane season, so monitor weather.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

78-92°F

Hot and humid but great beach weather. Lower hotel rates and fewer tourists downtown. Plan outdoor activities for morning hours and enjoy air-conditioned attractions midday.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

45-62°F

Mild winters perfect for walking tours. Holiday decorations make the city magical. Lowest prices and thinnest crowds. Oyster season at its prime.

Helpful Advice

Travel Tips

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Walk Everywhere Downtown

The Historic District is very walkable. Skip the car and explore on foot to discover hidden alleys, secret gardens, and charming details you would miss while driving.

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Make Reservations Early

Top restaurants book up weeks in advance, especially on weekends. Reserve Husk, FIG, Halls Chophouse, and other favorites as soon as you plan your trip.

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Stay Downtown

Splurge on a historic inn or boutique hotel in the French Quarter or on Meeting Street. The experience of staying in a centuries-old building adds magic to your visit.

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Try a Ghost Tour

Charleston is considered one of America's most haunted cities. Evening ghost tours through dimly lit streets and graveyards offer a fun and spooky perspective on local history.

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Visit the Market

The Charleston City Market stretches four blocks and features local artisans, sweetgrass basket weavers, and Southern souvenirs. Go early to beat the crowds.

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Day Trip Options

Take a day trip to Beaufort or Kiawah Island, explore the Angel Oak tree on Johns Island, or kayak through the blackwater cypress swamps of the ACE Basin.

Visual Journey