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Best of Charleston

Beyond the carriage tours — creek marshes, sea islands, and Lowcountry cooking worth the drive out.

7 daysLocal gems
Trip length
3-day5-day7-day10-day
Best time to visit: March to May, October to November

Spring brings blooming gardens and comfortable days before the humidity settles in. Midsummer is hot and stormy, and hurricane season runs from August into October.

Day 1·Welcome to the Lowcountry

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  1. Food

    The Daily

    Grab a coffee and pastry at this neighborhood favorite.

  2. Sightseeing

    Hampton Park

    Stroll through this beautiful park, a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

  3. Food

    Leon's Oyster Shop

    Enjoy fresh oysters and fried chicken in a lively setting.

  4. Food

    Xiao Bao Biscuit

    Savor creative Asian-inspired dishes in a unique atmosphere.

Day 2·Islands and Oaks

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  1. Sightseeing

    Angel Oak Tree

    Witness the grandeur of this magnificent, ancient live oak tree.

  2. Shopping

    Johns Island Farmers Market

    Pick up local produce and artisan goods if you're visiting on a Saturday.

  3. Food

    Fat Hen

    Indulge in delicious French-inspired Lowcountry cuisine on Johns Island.

  4. Food

    Wild Olive Restaurant

    Enjoy classic Italian dishes made with local ingredients.

Day 3·Sullivan's Island Charm

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  1. Activity

    Sullivan's Island Beach

    Take a relaxing walk along the shore and enjoy the ocean breeze.

  2. Food

    Poe's Tavern

    Grab a burger and a craft beer at this local favorite.

  3. Sightseeing

    Fort Moultrie

    Explore this historic fort with views of the harbor.

  4. Food

    The Obstinate Daughter

    Enjoy delicious pizza and pasta in a stylish setting.

Day 4·Historic Streets and Culinary Delights

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  1. Sightseeing

    Rainbow Row

    Admire the colorful historic homes along this iconic street.

  2. Sightseeing

    Waterfront Park

    Enjoy scenic views of the harbor and the Ravenel Bridge.

  3. Food

    Husk Restaurant

    Experience elevated Lowcountry cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

  4. Food

    Fig

    Savor refined, seasonal dishes in a sophisticated atmosphere.

  5. Nightlife

    The Gin Joint

    Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, intimate bar.

Day 5·Creek Marshes and Oyster Roasts

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  1. Food

    Bowens Island Restaurant

    Feast on fresh, steamed oysters at this legendary Lowcountry institution.

  2. Activity

    Folly Beach

    Relax on the beach or watch surfers catch waves.

  3. Food

    Loggerhead's Beach Grill

    Enjoy casual seafood and drinks with ocean views.

Day 6·Gardens and Grandeur

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  1. Sightseeing

    Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

    Explore beautiful gardens and learn about the plantation's history.

  2. Sightseeing

    Middleton Place

    Wander through America's oldest landscaped gardens.

  3. Food

    Rodney Scott's BBQ

    Savor delicious whole-hog barbecue, a true Southern staple.

Day 7·Last Bites and Local Finds

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  1. Food

    Callie's Hot Little Biscuit

    Grab a warm, buttery biscuit for a perfect Charleston breakfast.

  2. Shopping

    Charleston City Market

    Browse local crafts and souvenirs, including sweetgrass baskets.

  3. Food

    Lewis Barbecue

    Enjoy authentic Texas-style barbecue in the heart of Charleston.

Make it your own

Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.

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