Laura C Anderson
Welcome to Charleston! It's no surprise that Charleston has consistently ranked as America's #1 destination by Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler for many years. The city has transformed into a bustling hub of activity, with its downtown streets often rivaling those of NYC. While New Yorkers might beg to differ, for those of us who appreciate a smaller town atmosphere, there's no denying the tourism boom has brought countless opportunities for local businesses to thrive.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or planning a family staycation, we've got your itinerary covered with the "must-see" Charleston attractions that the whole family can enjoy.
Accommodations:
Charleston boasts an array of beautiful hotels, ensuring there's a perfect spot for you no matter your preferences. Two standout options include:
Hotel Bennett: Nestled in the heart of King Street, Hotel Bennett offers chic luxury and features a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city. The hotel also boasts three restaurants, including the iconic Camellias champagne bar.
Hotel Bennett
Ryder Hotel: Located on Meeting Street, the newly renovated Ryder Hotel offers a slightly quieter ambiance compared to King Street, yet still places you in the heart of the action. With its modern bohemian style, this hotel features a pool and Charleston's newest poolside hotspot, The Little Palm, where you can savor cocktails and meals while dipping your toes in the water. Both lodging options cater to parents and kids alike.
Day 1:
12:00 PM: After a day of traveling with the kids, it's essential to keep everyone well-fed. No matter where you choose to stay in downtown Charleston, you'll find fantastic dining options within walking distance.
1:00 PM: Head to Poogan's Porch on Queen Street for lunch. This historic restaurant, recognized by Martha Stewart Living, Southern Living, and The Travel Channel, offers a menu for both adults and kids.
2:00 PM: After lunch, it's time to explore Charleston's historic charm. Begin your adventure at the Charleston City Market, an iconic attraction since the 1800s, known as Charleston's #1 Most Visited Attraction. Here, you can discover locally crafted souvenirs, from sweetgrass baskets to jewelry, cigars, and art.
Charleston City Market
3:00 PM: Charleston is steeped in history, dating back to 1670 and serving as a significant location in the Civil War. Explore this rich history by renting a bicycle to navigate the city streets or joining a walking tour to visit sites like the French Quarter and the Battery.
5:00 PM: After your two-hour tour, treat your taste buds to some authentic southern barbecue at Rodney Scott's Whole Hog BBQ. Chef Rodney Scott, the 2018 James Beard Award winner for Best Chef in the Southeast, offers a mouthwatering menu, including pulled pork, mac 'n' cheese, and banana pudding.
6:30 PM: Satisfy your sweet tooth at Kaminsky's Dessert Café, where you can indulge in a variety of cakes, cookies, brownies, ice cream, and pies. For adults, there are specialty coffees, adult milkshakes, and signature cocktails to enjoy.
7:00 PM: Return to your hotel for some relaxation. Whether you choose the Hotel Bennett pool or the Ryder Hotel pool (which is open 24 hours), unwind with a sunset swim overlooking the city and let the kids burn off their sugar rush.
Day 2:
10 AM: Kick off day 2 with a visit to Callie's Hot Little Biscuit for freshly made biscuits in various flavors that both kids and adults will relish.
11 AM: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll to Rainbow Row, a row of colorful historic houses, and then head to Battery Park to enjoy historic cannons and breathtaking harbor views. The walk from Callie's to the Battery showcases charming 1800s homes with hidden gardens.
12:00 PM: For lunch, consider Brown Dog Deli for a casual deli experience with a variety of sandwiches, salads, and wraps that cater to both kids and adults. Alternatively, try Five Loaves Café for fresh and healthy options, including nutritious choices for the little ones.
1:00 PM: Venture slightly off the downtown Charleston grid to Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, one of America's oldest gardens. This destination offers engaging activities for kids and parents, from sprawling gardens and a petting zoo to the Audubon Swamp Garden, where you can spot alligators and diverse bird species.
3:30 PM: Return downtown and enjoy more relaxation and playtime at Waterfront Park and Pineapple Fountain. The Pineapple Fountain is a hit with kids, and the whole family can savor scenic harbor views.
Laura C Anderson
4:00 PM: Embark on a harbor cruise to see Charleston from a different perspective. Narrated tours provide insights into the city's maritime history, offering a pleasant escape from the Charleston heat.
6:00 PM: Conclude your trip with a memorable meal at Virginia's on King, renowned for its upscale Lowcountry cuisine, especially shrimp and grits.
7:00 PM: Before your final adventure in Charleston, make a quick stop at Kilwins for some homemade ice cream.
7:30 PM: No trip to one of the South's most haunted cities is complete without a ghost tour. Join a family-friendly Charleston Ghost and Graveyard ghost tour to delve into the city's ghost stories and intriguing history.
After the spooky tour, it's time to return to your hotel, start packing up, and begin planning your next trip to Charleston. Come back soon, y'all!
