CHARLESTON ’S CHARM DISCOVER
Charleston’s longest running carriage company, Palmetto Carriage Works offers a charming trot through history with tales only our family and horses know best. Start at the Big Red Barn, meet our hoofed celebrities, like treat-loving Bezos, and tour 25 blocks of mansions and landmarks with expert guides and friendly horses. Ready for an unforgettable ride?
Charleston’s Original Carriage Tour $5 Off With Code: TRAVMAG
Explore Charleston with a Little Horsepower
Book online or head to the Big Red Barn!
We are proud to bring you another edition of Traveler of Charleston. As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, Charleston has been recognized as a Signature City, highlighting our important role in the nation’s story. In these pages, explore Charleston’s rich history, discover what this honor means for our community, and uncover the city’s mysterious side through its legendary haunted tours. Whether you’re seeking history, adventure, or charm, we hope your Charleston experience is unforgettable.
Publisher
TRAVELER OF CHARLESTON TEAM
PUBLISHER: TIFFIN SIMMONS brings two decades of expertise in marketing and advertising across a diverse range of industries. A resident of Mount Pleasant, she shares her home with her husband and three children and is deeply committed to her local community. In her free time, Tiffin enjoys diving into a good book and cheering on her favorite sports teams.
EDITOR: LAUREN B. JOHNSON has worked as a magazine editor and writer for more than 20 years in New York, Baltimore, and Charleston. She lives in Mount Pleasant with her husband, three children, and a Dalmadoodle rescue puppy. An avid dabbler in creative and outdoor pursuits, Lauren is happiest when reading, cooking, running, and adventuring with her energetic crew.
DESIGNER: CRAIG MCLAUGHLIN has been a Charleston resident since 1995 and started his own design business, mclaughlin design, in 2004. When he isn’t behind a screen, you can find him in a boat behind a lens capturing images of local wildlife with his wife in the many creeks and rivers in the Charleston area.
Publisher Tiffin Poulton-Simmons
Founder/President .................. Keith Simmons
Editor ........................................... Lauren B. Johnson
Graphic Designer ..................... mclaughlin design
Advertising Sales Ted DeLoach
Circulation Jim & Sandy Duke, Alan Wilson & Kirstie Duke
Cover Photo ............................. Hue & Eye Photography
TRAVELER of Charleston is produced by the Traveler Mag, LLC, and is published two times per year and distributed to various locations throughout the Charleston area, including all visitors centers, hotels, airports, beach rentals, grocery stores, high-traffic areas, advertiser locations and many other points throughout the surrounding area. Concept, design and contents of TRAVELER of Charleston are copyrighted and may not be reproduced. For Advertising information email Info@travelerofcharleston.com info@TRAVELERofCharleston.com | TRAVELERofCharleston.com
[ WELCOME ] to CHARLESTON
EACH YEAR, MILLIONS FLOCK TO THIS PORT CITY to explore its history, culture, and architecture and bask in its Southern goodness. In recent years, Charleston has become a preferred destination for shopping and outdoor adventuring, while its incredible culinary scene continues to attract global attention.
But the Holy City also has a storied past. An early English settlement, Charleston has survived wars, fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, and more to rise up as one of the country’s top travel destinations.
From arts and theater to fine dining and watersports, Charleston truly offers something for everyone. As you’re visiting our beloved city, take time to get acquainted with her history, celebrate her charms, and delight in her amazing beauty.
1670
English colonists settle Charles Town on the Ashley River
1718
Blackbeard the Pirate sails into Charles Town Harbor with four ships; takes hostages for ransom
1710
Ships of enslaved Africans begin arriving directly from West and Central Africa, and Charleston becomes a major hub for the Transatlantic Slave Trade
1740
Charles Town becomes most critical port in North America for exporting rice and other commodities
1775-1783
Revolutionary War; Siege of Charleston in 1780
1791
President George Washington visits, lodging at what is now the HeywardWashington House, and attends a reception at the Old Exchange and a social at McCrady’s Longroom
1718
Pirate Stede Bonnet is hanged at White Point 1680
Charles Town relocates to the peninsula; population 1,000
1736
Dock Street Theatre opens; first building in Colonial America used exclusively for theatrical performances
1770 College of Charleston founded
1783
City renamed “Charleston”
1824
Charleston Museum opens to the public (founded in 1773)
1827-1828
Young Army recruit named Edgar Allan Poe is stationed at Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island
1864
1920 Preservation Society founded to protect historic resources
H.L. Hunley sinks
U.S.S. Housatonic in Charleston harbor
1989 Hurricane Hugo hits the city and surrounding areas with 135 mph winds
2023 International African American Museum opens
2016 Joseph P. Riley Jr. retires after 40 years as Charleston mayor
1861 Confederate troops fire the first shots of the Civil War upon Fort Sumter
1886 Major earthquake hits Charleston, damaging 2,000 buildings, killing at least 60 people
1977 Spoleto Festival USA begins
2006 Charleston Wine+Food Festival founded
2005 Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge over the Cooper River opens
landmarks we love
Experience Holy City history and revel in our beautiful public spaces while visiting these favorite attractions at little to no cost
Angel Oak
As many as 400 years old, the majestic Angel Oak towers 65 feet high and measures 25.5 feet around. The wellshaded park offers a picnic area and gift shop.
3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
For a bird’s-eye view of the harbor, follow the 2.5-mile bike/pedestrian lane along this iconic cable-stayed bridge spanning the Cooper River. Park free at East Bay & Cooper Sts. downtown or at Mt. Pleasant’s Memorial Waterfront Park.
The Battery Bordered by the Ashley and Cooper rivers, this landmark defensive seawall and promenade along the lower Charleston peninsula is now famous for its stately antebellum homes.
East Battery Street & Murray Boulevard, Charleston
St. Michael’s Church & Graveyard
St. Michael’s Church is the oldest church edifice in the City of Charleston, standing on the site of the first Anglican Church built south of Virginia. In the 1680s, a small wooden church – the first in the new town of Charles Town – was built on this spot for the families of the Church of England and named St. Philip’s. John Rutledge, the first governor of South Carolina and signer of the U.S. Constitution, is buried in the graveyard here.
80 Meeting Street, Charleston
Riley Waterfront Park
This 12-acre public park along the Cooper River boasts peaceful pier swings, dolphin watching, and the iconic Pineapple Fountain.
1 Vendue Range, Charleston
Rainbow Row
This well-photographed strip of pastelhued historic houses is awash in colorful tales explaining its unique look. One story holds that the color code helped drunken sailors coming in from the port remember where to bunk.
83-107 East Bay Street, Charleston
DISCOVER MORE!
Scan this QR code for additional sites and expanded descriptions.
ST. MICHAEL’S CHURCH
A revolutionary leader
Celebrate Charleston’s starring role in the birth of our nation
WHEN IT COMES TO THE UNITED STATES SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL, Charleston gives off main character energy. As a central force in the early American experience and a pivotal player in the fierce quest to create a nation, our fair city helped seal American independence. Is it any wonder that America 250 designated us one of four historical hot spots (alongside Philadelphia, New York, and Boston) for enhanced commemorative celebration?
Charleston’s Revolutionary War narrative contains stories of grit and determination, vision and rebellion, honor and heartbreak. You’ll hear about the Charleston Tea Party, a precursor to the famous Boston revolt, when protestors seized chests of British tea to be stored in the basement of the Exchange Building and sold to fund the revolution. Then there’s the chapter on the 1776 Battle of Sullivan’s Island, when the British tried to take control of this busy port by sea but were deterred by an underdog militia inside an unfinished fort built of soft palmetto logs. Later that summer, four planters with Charleston ties signed the Declaration of Independence—gentlemen whose worlds you can step into at historic sites and museums all around town. The story culminates in the British seizure and occupation of Charleston for more than two years and the subsequent fight to retake the city, an effort that thinned the Royal forces and ultimately shifted the tide of the Revolutionary War.
On the following pages, we map out valuable guideposts to give you a more thorough understanding of Charleston’s place in this dramatic period of American history.
FORT MOULTRIE
HISTORIC SITES
Stand in the exact spots where the most pivotal moments of the war took place.
Fort Moultrie: On June 28, 1776, nine men-of-war from the Royal Navy attacked a fort on Sullivan’s Island that was still being constructed of sand and palmetto logs. As luck would have it, the spongy wood withstood the enemy bombardment, absorbing the cannonballs’ impact. Colonel William Moultrie and his Patriot regiment then returned fire, forcing the armed ships to retreat a mere nine hours into the battle. (The British later captured the fort along with Charlestown.) The National Park Service hosts commemorative events throughout the year that delve into the history of this remarkable oceanside site, including The Battle of Sullivan’s Island. nps.gov/fosu
The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon: The Exchange Building witnessed plenty of bright moments, including the Charleston Tea Party to protest British taxation in 1773, the First Continental Congress in 1774, and the reading of the Declaration of Independence from the front steps on August 5, 1776. The lower floor of the building, however, houses a darker past. Following their successful siege of the city in 1780, British forces used the space as a military prison, or “provost,” to hold Patriot prisoners of war, wayward British soldiers, private citizens, and enslaved people. oldexchange.org
The Powder Magazine: The oldest public building in the Carolinas, this storehouse held five tons of gunpowder during the
1780 Siege of Charleston, but when a cannonball exploded nearby, General William Moultrie ordered the powder moved for safekeeping. The explosives were bricked up inside the walls of the Exchange Building, where they remained hidden until the British evacuated the city in 1782. powdermagazinemuseum.org
MUSEUMS
Dig deeper into Charleston’s place in Revolutionary history with special exhibits.
Middleton Place: This National Historic Landmark remains one of just 11 places in the nation where visitors can become immersed in the home life of a Declaration signer. Arthur Middleton was only 34 years old when he put quill pen to parchment before returning home to help defend Charlestown. During the siege, British forces ravaged Middleton and other plantations, ransacking property, looting valuables, and vandalizing statues. In commemoration of the semiquincentennial and this site’s role in the nation’s quest for independence, a new exhibition, “Conversations of Freedom: The American Revolution at Middleton Place,” features a rare silk edition of the Declaration of Independence alongside 18th-century apparel. middletonplace.org
Charleston Museum: In August 1776, staunch Patriot Peter Timothy bravely printed and distributed broadside copies of the Declaration of Independence—250 years later, the only known copy has returned to the city for a special exhibition, “Ringleaders of Rebellion: Charleston in Revolt, 1775-1783,” remaining on display until August 30. The exhibition, on view through September in
THE OLD EXCHANGE & PROVOST DUNGEON
MIDDLETON PLACE
Come celebrate 50 years of adventure, history, and fun at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Step back in time on our historic aircraft carrier, stand where heroes once stood, and uncover the stories of courage that shaped history. Help celebrate our 50th anniversary and get your tickets today at PatriotsPoint.org
Charleston Museum’s Historic Textiles Gallery, delves into 18th-century material culture in the Lowcountry with artifacts like an exquisite silk gown, a Loyalist’s sword, and the logbook from the HMS Bristol, the Royal Navy flagship at the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. charlestonmuseum.org
SC Historical Society: Housed inside the Historic Fireproof Building, this expansive archive has preserved and promoted the rich legacy of South Carolina for 141 years. The museum’s newest commemorative exhibition, “Voices of the Revolution,” brings together original manuscripts, maps, records, and artifacts from the Historical Society’s collections as well as from sister institutions across the state. Offering a glimpse at the roles played by all manner of South Carolinians during the struggle for American independence, the exhibit remains through Fall 2027. schistory.org
Gibbes Museum: Anchoring the second floor galleries of Charleston’s only art museum, the 18th and 19th Century American Paintings collection showcases objects from the museum’s permanent holdings, including oil portraits by renowned Revolutionary-era artists like Benjamin West and Gilbert Stuart. Visitors
EXPERIENCE THE STORIES
can see John Francis Rigaud’s portrait of Loyalist John Moultrie III and his family as well as the 1795 painting of his uncle, General William Moultrie, by Rembrandt Peale (can you spy a scene from the Battle of Sullivan’s Island over his shoulder?). gibbesmuseum.org
HISTORIC HOMES
Venture beyond the battlefields and gain perspective on daily life in the late 18th century.
Heyward Washington House: Built in 1772, this Georgian-style home belonged to Declaration signer Thomas Heyward, Jr. This Patriot artillery officer was captured during the Siege of Charleston and sent to St. Augustine with other prisoners of war. While her husband was imprisoned,
Continued on page 21.
LET THE CITY’S ENGAGING GUIDES ACCOMPANY YOU ON A JOURNEY THROUGH CHARLESTON’S STORIED SITES.
Old South Carriage Company: What could be a better immersion into the past than a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride? The 40-minute “Charleston’s Founding to Independence Carriage Tour” ferries passengers through the heart of our historic downtown while engaging guides relay the successes and travails of this port city from its earliest days to the start of a new nation. oldsouthcarriage.com
Bulldog Tours: One of the city’s most prolific tour companies has introduced a special edition walking tour. “Charleston and the American Revolution” brings to life not only the war’s key military engagements but also everyday life in Charlestown during the Revolution. Powerful storytelling captures the lives of Patriot and Loyalist soldiers, civilians struggling to survive British occupation, and enslaved people navigating this conflicted world. bulldogtours.com
Grayline of Charleston: Independence was a struggle, but learning about it shouldn’t be, so Grayline offers an exclusive “America 250” tour aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus. The 90-minute experience immerses passengers into the city’s Revolutionary history with live narration, strategic photo stops, and a sightseeing route that takes in key highlights from the cobblestone streets to the harbor’s edge. graylineofcharleston.com
Fort Sumter: Decades before the first shots of the Civil War rang out here, this sandbar site aided a Patriot victory by grounding British ships during the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. Named after Revolutionary hero Thomas Sumter, this 19th-century fort at the Charleston Harbor entrance represents the nation’s commitment to fortify the independence won in 1776. fortsumter.com
CHARLES PINCKNEY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Elizabeth Matthews Heyward defiantly protected their townhome, refusing to illuminate her windows for British victories and suffering a Loyalist mob attack on the home she lived in with her sister and their children. charlestonmuseum.org/heywardwashington-house
Drayton Hall: As the city burned and estates fell during the Siege of Charleston, this grand Palladian masterpiece survived, a witness to the unfurling of history. Having endured since its construction began in the 1730s, Drayton Hall remains one of the nation’s oldest preserved plantation houses, delivering a powerful look at late-colonial living along the Ashley River. draytonhall.org
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens: Situated along the Ashley River, this former rice plantation once served as an encampment for both British and Patriot troops, who left in their wake a great deal of damage. Hanging just inside the plantation house museum is an original restored map from 1775, one of just 15 surviving copies. The Mouzon map accurately laid out the terrain, roads, and townships of the Carolinas, providing valuable details for both sides of the Revolution. In fact, generals George Washington and Charles Cornwallis were both known to have carried this key piece of intelligence. magnoliaplantation.com
Hampton Plantation: During the war, the women and children of Patriot families took refuge at this plantation just outside of Charlestown. And when British troops arrived at the site in search of Patriot
leader Francis Marion, the property’s rice fields became a strategic hiding place for the resourceful planter. Known to engage in guerilla-style tactics as he led troops through the treacherous Carolina terrain, Marion earned the moniker “Swamp Fox.” southcarolinaparks.com/hampton
Charles Pinckney National Historic Site: After Charlestown surrendered in 1780, the British took possession of Snee Farm, the country seat of Charles Pinckney (who would go on to become a principal author and signer of the Constitution). The British used the location to house internment camps for significant American officers, including General William Moultrie. Afraid to lose his vast holdings, Pinckney took an oath of loyalty to the British Crown, an action that protected his property; his son, however, refused to do so and was imprisoned for more than a year. nps.gov/chpi
Boone Hall: Nearly a decade after Major John Boone and his wife founded this plantation using land grants from Carolina’s Lord Proprietors, their greatgrandsons John and Edward Rutledge became Founding Fathers of the nation, signing their names to the Declaration of Independence. boonehallplantation.com PATRIOTIC
DRAYTON HALL
RELAX ON THE FRONT PORCH OF THE LOWCOUNTRY
Step into the charm of Walterboro, SC - the Front Porch of the Lowcountry. This summer, explore our historic downtown, stroll beneath centuries-old oaks, and experience true Southern hospitality. Whether you’re chasing art, antiques, or adventure, Walterboro welcomes you to relax, recharge, and stay awhile. Your Lowcountry getaway begins here!
Ghosts Holy City of the
CHARLESTON’S TOP TOURS AND MOST HAUNTED PLACES
CHOOSING THE RIGHT GHOST TOUR OPERATOR CAN BE A SCARY ENDEAVOR. You want the best boo for your buck and a frightfully good time, but wading through all of the options in our historic city can cast a shadow on your planning. So we’re aiming to remove the fear factor with this guide to the guides. The companies in the following pages are more than just overnight apparitions — they’re reputable and reliable with local roots and proven longevity.
BULLDOG TOURS
“We don’t simply tell ghost stories — we connect those stories to documented history, local folklore, eyewitness accounts, and the people who lived through the events,” says veteran guide Andrew Kuhn. Like all of the guides at Bulldog Tours, he relies on years of historical research and practical guiding experience to sift through dusty layers of dark history and uncover the true stories of the colorful souls who called this city home (and may still). “When guests can imagine the lives of the people who once occupied these spaces, the experience becomes much more powerful.”
Of all of the spooky destinations to which Bulldog Tours offers exclusive nighttime access—including the U.S.S. Yorktown, Old City Jail, Provost Dungeon, and Circular Church graveyard—Kuhn’s top pick is the haunted aircraft carrier. “The combination of military history and unexplained experiences there makes the ship a fascinating place to share.” A proud member of the Palmetto Guild, a local organization of licensed tour guides, Bulldog Tours employs knowledgeable and respected guides that teach, entertain, and always leave participants wanting more. bulldogtours.com
PALMETTO CARRIAGE WORKS
“Something definitely feels different out here after dark,” says Mal Edwards. “Whether it’s the spirits of old Charlestonians making themselves known or just the atmosphere of these ancient streets at night…I’ll let you decide.” The manager of Charleston’s oldest carriage company has witnessed plenty of eerie episodes on their ghost tour excursions, but one in particular stays with her. Passing the Powder Magazine one warm evening, the temperature dropped suddenly, chilling several guests. “Our horse then refused to move for several seconds—unusual for him,” she says, noting that the third-generation family business cares deeply about the welfare of its horses. “While stopped, two guests whispered that they saw a man standing at attention behind the iron gates. Though I didn’t see him, I did see a mist-like shape move through the iron fence.” That sort of contagious energy from genuinely enthusiastic guides delivers the perfect balance of spookiness and entertainment on every tour that departs the Big Red Barn. “We blend dark history, ghost stories, and real paranormal possibilities to give you chills while keeping it lighthearted enough for the whole family.” palmettocarriage.com
CHARLES TOWNE LANDING
OLD SOUTH CARRIAGE COMPANY
You can’t get much more atmospheric than a nighttime horse-drawn carriage ride along Charleston’s cobblestone streets. Add in an expert storyteller, a centuries-old backdrop, and a city alive with hallowed character, and you’ve got all the trappings of a delightfully frightful outing. This familyfriendly adventure doesn’t gather its spooky factor from theatrics or jump scares, instead letting the city’s documented hauntings, venerable legends, and rich past deliver the drama. “Guests get to experience the quieter side streets, historic churches, cemeteries, alleyways, and homes in a way that feels immersive and genuine,” says general manager Derek Evenhouse. In operation for more than 40 years, Old South Carriage Company has been running haunted carriage tours longer than any other company in town, and these guides know their stuff. “The area surrounding the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, especially down by the historic waterfront area, really captures the mystery and history that make our ghost tour so memorable,” adds Evenhouse, noting that the site’s deep connection to colonial and Revolutionary history, combined with many reported paranormal encounters near the building, make it one of the most fascinating stops. oldsouthcarriage.com
OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS OF CHARLESTON
The iron gate emits a haunting squeak as you pass beneath a stone arch and into the Victorian-era cemetery, darkness interrupted only by a lantern’s flicker and the moonlight. A costumed character points out curious gravemarkers, reveling in fascinating stories of the souls interred here. “We use actors recruited from performing arts schools to deliberately set a macabre scene,” says Chris Crompton, regional manager of Old Town Trolley Tours of Charleston, which enjoys exclusive access to Bethany Cemetery for its “Ghosts & Gravestones” program. Rather than leaping out from headstones, these “ghost hosts” entertain with tales of the nefarious characters and grim challenges of the city’s past. After journeying by bus to the 1856 burial grounds at St. Matthews Lutheran Church, the immersive tour continues to Hampton Park and into pirate territory along the peninsula’s western edge. “This is a frightseeing tour, not a sightseeing tour,” jokes Crompton. “The program is designed to be family-friendly but is PG-13.” Parent company Historic Tours of America first launched its successful Ghosts & Gravestones model 30 years ago in Boston. Beyond Charleston, the operator also runs “transportainment” tours in Boston, San Diego, Key West, Savannah, and St. Augustine. trolleytours.com/charleston, ghostsandgravestones.com/charleston
OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS OF CHARLESTON
Haunted History Tours with Charleston’s Original Carriage Company
Discover Charleston’s eerie past with Palmetto Carriage Works’ haunted tours. Passed down through generations, our ghostly tales come alive with expert guides and cozy carriage rides. Glide through shadowy streets and haunted landmarks as our trusty horses lead the way—expect thrills, chills, and an unforgettable night!
SPOOKIEST SPOTS
“Duelers’ Alley”
During the 19th century, Charleston’s gents defended their honor with pistols along the French Quarter’s Philadelphia Alley. Pedestrians on the brick-clad block have reported hearing phantom gunshots and the eerie whistling of young Dr. Joseph Ladd, who tragically lost such a dispute.
Unitarian Church Graveyard
While Lavinia Fisher’s body lies in a nearby potter’s field, the soul of the nation’s first female serial killer may rest here. Some also speculate that the overgrown cemetery holds the secret grave of Edgar Allan Poe’s Annabel Lee. So which is the ghostly lady in white making her way among the markers?
Dock Street Theatre
Ghostly lore lurks behind the curtain of one the country’s oldest theaters, which is said to be haunted by a famed 19th-century actor and a well-dressed damsel who glides along the second story.
White Point Garden
After being held at Provost Dungeon (brave a visit to that sunken prison, too), gentleman pirate Stede Bonnet and his salty crew were hanged at White Point, their bodies tossed into the marshy graves and souls left to roam the park.
Magnolia Cemetery
This hauntingly beautiful property on the banks of the Cooper River provides a final resting place for some 35,000 souls. Or does it? Many visitors to the oak-canopied cemetery feel they’re being watched. (To tour the 150-acre site at night, link up with Bulldog Tours.)
FOR THE TRULY DARING: Scan the QR code to read about more of Charleston’s spookiest sites.
charleston gift guide
Want to take a piece of Charleston home with you? Discover these unique items that help you keep the spirit of our city alive long after you visit.
Gold Creations
74 South Market Street
Gold Creations designed this exclusive 14K Yellow and White Gold GC Original City Hall Gate Pendant to be an exact replica of the historic gate at 80 Broad Street, capturing the beauty of Charleston’s iconic ironwork. The timeless keepsake lets you Take Home a Piece of Charleston™. Starting at $465. Also available in sterling silver ($45). goldcreationschas.com
Deep Water Vineyard
6775 Bears Bluff Road, Wadmalaw Island
Charleston’s only vineyard and winery features 30 different wines and meads. Enjoy onsite tastings or subscribe to the Wine Club online. deepwatervineyard.com
Where the Rivers Merge by Mary Alice Monroe
A sweeping Lowcountry saga about one woman’s fight to protect legacy and land. Available in hardcover and paperback. maryalicemonroe.com
The Islanders Adventure Collection Boxed Set
For the kids and kids at heart! Adventure, friendship, and the healing power of nature come together in this New York Times bestselling The Islanders boxed set — now available in paperback, by Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May. (middle grade, ages 8-12). angelamaybooks.com
Southern Welcome
Oyster Jewelry Dish
Handcrafted from a local oyster shell, this elegant jewelry dish celebrates the natural beauty and coastal charm of the Lowcountry. $24.95
Rainbow Row Ornament
Bring a piece of Charleston home with this ceramic ornament, featuring a locally illustrated rendition of iconic Rainbow Row. $21.45 southernwelcome.com
Sweetgrass Basket
Historic City Market
Sweetgrass basket artists continue a Gullah tradition carried over from West Africa. Using sweetgrass, palmetto, and other local materials, they craft intricate baskets celebrated for their beauty and cultural significance. $100 and up.
Charleston Beaches
WANT TO UNWIND? OUR LOCAL BEACHES OFFER THE PERFECT RESPITE. WHETHER YOU’RE SEEKING THE BREEZY VIBE OF FOLLY BEACH, FAMILYFRIENDLY FEEL OF ISLE OF PALMS, OR UNSPOILED OCEAN VIEWS ON SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, THIS GUIDE WILL HELP DECIDE WHERE TO BURY YOUR TOES.
FOLLY BEACH
Often frequented by locals and surfers, this laid-back barrier island offers plenty of restaurants, shops, hotels, and rentals just a short drive from downtown Charleston. A dedicated swimming zone (ie, no surfing) can be found from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West through September 15. cityoffollybeach.com
Fun Fact: One of Folly’s famous visitors was composer and pianist George Gershwin, who composed the classic opera Porgy and Bess while here.
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND
This barrier island north of Charleston harbor has just over 2,000 residents. With its unspoiled views and terrific dining options, Sullivan’s is a favorite among locals. The island has few short-term rentals and no hotels, so plan a day trip. sullivansisland.sc.gov
Fun Fact: This island has a long military history of protecting Charleston harbor from invaders. Visit the restored Fort Moultrie— first built with palmetto logs in 1776—to learn about American seacoast defense up through World War II.
ISLE OF PALMS
Minutes from Mount Pleasant, family-friendly Isle of Palms has buckets of amenities, including shops, restaurants, rentals, and public restrooms. “Front Beach,” which stretches along Ocean Boulevard from 10th to 14th Avenue, is set aside for beachgoers. Through Labor Day, visitors can ride the weekend shuttle from Mount Pleasant Towne Centre to the beach. iop.net
Fun Fact: Loggerhead sea turtles lay eggs here throughout summer. From July until October, the hatchlings emerge at night to make their way to the ocean. To keep them safe, don’t disturb the nests or babies, fill in any holes you dig, and turn off outside lights at night.
KIAWAH ISLAND
Much of this island and its white sand beaches are private, but you can access a public beachfront at Kiawah Beachwalker Park. kiawahisland.org
Fun Fact: Centuries before Kiawah Island became a world-class resort destination, wealthy planter John Stanyarne purchased the island from a Cusabo tribe in order to grow subsistence crops and raise cattle.
CURRENT CAUTION
GOOD TO KNOW
Park It: Beach traffic backs up quickly and parking on the islands can be tough after 10 a.m. Arrive early to secure a spot and heed all posted parking signs. County parks on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Kiawah Island offer limited parking for a fee ($5 to $15), as well as various amenities, including lifeguards, public restrooms, outdoor showers, and seasonal snack bars. Get the scoop at ccprc.com.
Hot & Dry: Alcohol is illegal on all Lowcountry beaches except Kiawah, which permits drinking in designated areas.
Salty Dogs: Pups are allowed on all beaches, but leash times and rules vary. Four-legged visitors to Sullivan’s Island must also fetch a town-issued permit. For specifics, dig into your destination’s online beach info.
Riptides (AKA rip currents or undertows) form at surf beaches like those along the Lowcountry coast. These dangerously swift channels move up to eight feet per second and can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea. Minimize your riptide risk with these helpful tips:
RECOGNIZE
A riptide may appear as a calm gap between wave breaks or a narrow stream of dark/discolored or foamy water moving away from shore, especially between sandbars.
AVOID
Steer clear of inlets, jetties, and piers. Heed posted warning flags.
ESCAPE
If you do get caught, don’t panic; a riptide won’t pull you under. Swim parallel to shore or toward breaking waves, then angle back to the beach. If you can’t break free, tread or float until help arrives.
Exclusive offers
Enjoy instant access to our exclusive offers. Visit TravelerofCharleston.com/coupon or scan the QR code to elevate your experience with special savings.
Adventure
Sightseeing Bus Tour
$5 off ticket when booked online.
Code: TRAVMAG26
See page 46
Boone Hall Plantation
$3 off adult admission. Present ad at gate. No advance reservation is required.
See page 5
Charleston Harbor Tours
$5 off adult ticket when booked online.
Code: TRAVMAG26
See page 24
Drayton Hall
$4 off general admission. Code: TRAVELER4
See page 20
GrayLine Historic City Bus Tours
$3 off adult Historic City Tour. Code: CITY3 enter near bottom of checkout page. See page 47
SpiritLine Dinner Cruises
$10 off per person when booked online. Code: TC10 enter near bottom of checkout page.
See page 15
Magnolia Plantation
$3 off adult admission. Present ad at Ticket Booth. No advance reservation is required.
See page 6
Nature Adventures Kayak & Paddleboard Tours
15% off tours and rentals.
Code: TRAVELER15 enter near bottom of checkout page.
See page 33
Old South Carriage
$3 off per person on Daytime or Haunted Tours when booked online.
Code: MAG26
See page 7
Old Town Trolley Tours
$5 off Adult Admission for Ghost & Graveyards Tour
Code: TMGHOST26
See pg. 28
Palmetto Breeze
$5 per person on any cruise.
Code: TRAVELER26
See page 33
Palmetto Carriage Tours
$5 off Daytime or Haunted tours when booked online or in person with ad.
Code: TRAVMAG
See pages 2 & 30
Schooner Pride
Sailing Tour
$5 off ticket when booked online. Code: TRAVMAG26
See page 24
charleston area events
JULY
4 Fireworks Spectacular at Patriot’s Point patriotspoint.org
17 Reggae Nights ccprc.com
24 Dancing on the Cooper ccprc.com
25 Annual Sweetgrass Festival experiencemountpleasant.com
AUGUST
7 Reggae Nights ccprc.com
SEPTEMBER
4-6 Lowcountry Jazz Festival lowcountryjazzfest.com
11 Dancing on the Cooper ccprc.com
19 Sweet Tea Festival summervilledream.org
OCTOBER
3 Mermaids & Mateys Festival visitfolly.com
9-10 Riverfront Revival Concert riverfrontrevival.com
18 North Charleston Harvest Festival northcharleston.org
18 Children’s Day Festival experiencemountpleasant.com
NOVEMBER
21-22 Boone Hall Christmas Tree Festival boonehallplantation.com
26 Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble 5K turkeydayrun.com
DECEMBER
6 Wine Under the Oaks boonehallplantation.com
9 Gullah Christmas Concert boonehallplantation.com
MORE THINGS TO DO!
6 Charleston Holiday Parade charlestonarts.org
12-13 Mt. Pleasant Holiday Market & Craft Show/Christmas Light Parade experiencemountpleasant.com
17-19 Holiday Pops! Concert charlestonsymphony.org
ONGOING
Awendaw Green Barn Jam Wednesdays, 5:45 p.m. awendawgreen.com
BBQ & Blues Cruise Thursdays (through Dec 10), 7 p.m. charlestonharbortours.com
Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch Fridays-Sundays (September 25November 1), 10 a.m.-5 p.m. boonehallplantation.com
Charleston Riverdogs Days & times vary milb.com/charleston
Farmers Market Saturdays (through December 19), 8 a.m.-2 p.m. charlestonfarmersmarket.com
Holiday Festival of Lights November 13 - December 31 ccprc.com
Moonlight Mixer on Folly Pier July 31, August 21, and September 18, 7 p.m. ccprc.com
Second Sunday on King Street 2nd Sundays, noon-5 p.m. shop2ndsunday.com
The Sound of Charleston Days vary, 7 p.m. soundofcharleston.com
Weekend Wine-Down Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. deepwatervineyard.com
Wizard of Oz
August 26 - September 27 charlestonstage.com
DINING OUT REACHES NEW HEIGHTS WHEN THE RESTAURANT IS PERCHED HIGH ABOVE THE DOWNTOWN BUSTLE. WHETHER YOU’RE CRAVING BREEZY BITES OR AN ELEVATED EXPERIENCE, CHARLESTON’S ROOFTOP RESTAURANT SCENE WILL HAVE YOU DRINKING IN THE CITY FROM A WHOLE NEW VANTAGE. THE ROOFTOP
The Vibe The Menu Best Drink
The Rooftop 19 Vendue Range The Vendue
The Watch 75 Wentworth St. The Restoration Hotel
Èlevè
55 Wentworth St. Grand Bohemian Charleston
Henry’s on the Market
54 N. Market St.
Ritual
145 Calhoun St. Unit 301
The Terrazza at Allora 114 Spring St.
The Citrus Club
334 Meeting St. The Dewberry Charleston
Fiat Lux
404 King St. Hotel Bennett
Rosemary Rose
529 King St. The Nickel Hotel
Avant-garde meets the Atlantic at this modern art montage with views for miles
A classic yacht floats out of the harbor and docks atop a tall building
Fueled by curiosity, you trailed Alice into her whimsical Wonderland
Like meemaw’s patio with astroturf, wicker chairs, and a porch swing
A trendy tropical restaurant turned pulsing nightclub under the stars
As if you walked into a quaint corner bistro and landed on the Amalfi coast
A sophisticated (read, adults only) high-rise boasting panoramic views of the skyline
Posh and polished, with a dress code to match
Lush plants, lounge seats, and a stone fountain give French Riviera
Popular restaurant apps and sandwiches, elevated by a touch of culinary panache
Fresh plates harboring a Southern soul (skillet mac and cheese, y’all!)
Fresh and inventive coastal cuisine with an artful flair
This old-fashioned brick tavern standard slings mouthwatering burgers and pub fare
Rich Latin American dishes take a vibrant modern turn
Italian comfort served via handmade pasta, formaggio, and antipasti
An elegant collection of well-composed lite bites with an emphasis on seafood
A curated menu of chef’s selections with international intrigue
Shareable snacks and small plates inspired by the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean
Strawberry Basil Lemonade blends honeysuckle vodka into a summer sipper
Sample the quartet of Spritzes with Aperol, Hugo, and seasonal flavors
Vodka cran meets limoncello and Lillet Blanc in a Bohemian Sunset
You can’t go wrong with an ice-cold beer or classic cocktail
When in Tulum (or at this transportive rooftop bar), margaritas are a must
An espresso martini with amaretto foam and dark chocolate is the perfect finish
A fruity bourbon and rum number, the Tropical Itch tastes like a beach vacation
A chilled glass of rosé fits the bill
Keep things interesting with the fruity and spirited Antibes Affair
