Discover All That Charleston Has to Offer With This Guide
If you’re planning a visit to South Carolina, you don’t want to miss Charleston. Whether you’re going for the holidays, to see family and old friends, or just to explore, this beautiful city will not disappoint. Charleston is an old city, founded in 1670. Being one of the first cities to be established in the United States, it was also one of the wealthiest.
Charleston is rich in history, culture, architecture, and more. Today, this destination is known for its lively residents, artists, restaurants, breweries, and more. If you’re planning a visit to this city, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
What to Do in Charleston
Eat New Foods
If you’re visiting Charleston, be sure to try the cuisine options they have in the city. Here are a few things to know. Seasonal Options: If you’re debating which season to visit Charleston, this may help. Because of the local farms and businesses in Charleston, the cuisine changes depending on what time of year it is. In March and the warmer months, you can find a plethora of seafood dishes, while the summer also brings with it a variety of greens and vegetables. You’ll find peaches in the summer and other dishes depending on the harvest that year. Gullah: The African-American population inhabiting Charleston during its development heavily influenced the cuisine, bringing one of the most delicious foods to this city for all to enjoy. Gullah is a type of cuisine made with shrimp, okra, fish, greens, rice, crab, and more. From barbeque inspired dishes to seafood and more, your taste buds will never be happier. Boiled Peanuts: While it may seem like an interesting local food choice, boiled peanuts are all the rage in this rich city. If you’ve never had a boiled peanut, prepare for soft, salty nuts with the same peanut taste. Whether you’re downtown, at a baseball game, or walking along the roadside, you’ll likely run into a few boiled peanut stands. Don’t be shy! You may just find your new favorite snack. Oysters: If you visit Charleston, don’t forget to try the local oysters. The local restaurants serve oysters through the months of October to March. Grab the lemons, salt and pepper, and enjoy fresh seafood.
Enjoy the Water
Charleston has two main rivers that meet to join the Atlantic Ocean. The Ashley River and The Cooper River are perfect for fishing, cruising, or just watching from the shore if you prefer not to get wet. There are a range of activities to do on the water, so don’t miss out!
Brewery Hop
You can also enjoy visiting the local breweries scattered throughout Charleston. You can designate a sober member of your party to drive, grab an Uber to transport you, or join what’s called a Brews Cruise to visit the 23 breweries in the county. With relaxed alcohol content laws and a range of breweries popping up along the area, you can enjoy delicious craft beer from over 20 breweries.
Shopping
No matter where you visit, there’s likely a place to go shopping, and Charleston is no exception. King Street is a local area with the majority of shops being locally run businesses, bakeries, and cafes. Grab a few goods for yourself and bring back some souvenirs.
Tips for Navigating Charleston
Here are a few tips for navigating and planning your stay in Charleston.
Prepare in Advance for Parking and Lodging
Both parking and lodging require adequate preparation beforehand. Parking in Charleston, unfortunately, can get a little pricey. Be prepared for this and try to park strategically. If you’re booking a hotel or AirBnB, be sure to know the rules beforehand and prepare to clean up after your stay.
Know the Alcohol Laws
There are also a few alcohol laws to be aware of. This short list covers what you need to know: ● Liquor stores aren’t allowed to sell on Sundays, but you can still find alcohol at bars. ● Many bars also close earlier than normal. ● Don’t drive if you’ve been drinking. Be sure to have a designated driver or an Uber to transport you.
Store Your Luggage
Storing your luggage can help keep your time in Charleston smooth and easy! Whether you have to check out of your hotel early in the morning and wait a few hours to check into your next one, or just want to explore the city as soon as you arrive, it’s important to have a safe place to keep your luggage. Take a look at these options for luggage storage charleston to make your trip a breeze!