3 Days lost in Charleston, SC
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Day 1
Start off visiting historic Downtown Charleston. When you visit, it is a good idea to park your car and walk around to be able to take in all the beautiful architecture in Downtown. Wander and get lost.
Amazing Sites
Rainbow Row
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Once considered the slums of Charleston, the real reason the houses were painted bright pastel colors was not for drunken pirates, but to improve the aesthetics and keep the houses cool.
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The Battery
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A beautiful area to walk along the water. Cool off with the sea breeze and enjoy one of the best views of Charleston.
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Pineapple Fountain
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Pineapples are a historic symbol of hospitality in Charleston. You will see many on entryways in historic downtown.
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Charleston City Market
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The city market is one of the most visited places in Charleston, You will find local vendors selling all of their homemade jewelry, clothes, art, food, and souvenirs.
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King Street
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The main strip of Downtown. Here you will find multiple restaurants, bars, and shops. Come during summer to enjoy "Second Sunday on King". The streets are closed for you to walk from local vendors as well as the more well-known shops.
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International African American Museum
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Just opened in 2023, this museum shows the families and the culture that makeup Charleston. If you love learning history, this is the place for you.
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Saint Michael's Church
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Built in the 1700s and the lore of many ghost stories, this beautiful church towers over the historic district.
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Fort Sumter National Monument
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The only way to get to Fort Sumter is by ferry. Look for tours being sold in Downtown that will give you more info about this vital fort.
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Local Eats
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The Harbinger Cafe & Bakery
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A gorgeous little cafe with an in-house bakery! Delicious breakfasts and a great way to start your morning.
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Halls Chophouse
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If you love steaks, this is the place to go. It is usually jam-packed so reserve in advance. It is also a bit pricey—still, a fantastic spot to go once.
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Church and Union Charleston
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A restaurant inside an old church? Heck yes! Great spot for food and drinks. Make sure to look up.
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Carmella's Cafe and Dessert Bar
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After a long day, enjoy some desserts at this late-night dessert bar. You can continue the party with their wide selection of boozy drinks.
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Day 2
Head off the peninsula and onto the many islands that make up the Charleston area. Johns and James Island are a reflection of the charm of Charleston, with its many oak trees, rivers, and marshy areas.
Explore Outside
Angel Oak Tree
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A historic site to witness. This 400-year-old oak tree is said to be one of the biggest east of the Mississippi River.
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Folly Beach
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An iconic beach that you must go check out. Walk down the pier with an ice cream and look at over the water.
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Morris Island Lighthouse
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An ideal place to watch the Charleston sunset. To get here, you will need to drive all the way down the island, then walk along the path towards the tip of Folly Island.
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James Island County Park
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County park filled with so much to do. Disc golf, rock climbing, bike paths, paddle boat rentals, and a lot more. During Christmas, this park turns into a wonderland with a Festival of Lights you do not want to miss.
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Laid Back Cuisine
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Garage 75
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A bar and arcade. Nothing is more fun than playing some mini bowling or air hockey with a drink in your hand.
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The Charleston Pour House
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A staple more famously known as a music venue than a bar. It hosts many local and regional artists. Check out their website to see who's playing.
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Day 3
Explore the other islands Charleston has to offer. Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island are right next to each other and both give you plenty of beach space to enjoy the sun and water.
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Isle of Palms Beach
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Home to one of the most iconic beach bars in Charleston. You can usually find volleyball games going on.
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Pitt Street Bridge
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Definitely one of the best spots to view the sunset. Also, a pleasant little walk to digest all the food you have eaten.
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Fort Moultrie
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Another important fort located right on the island. Immerse yourself in history and explore the fort.
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Patriots Point
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Home to the naval museum and the USS Yorktown. There are many events that this venue holds as well as another view of the water
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Island Favoirtes
The Windjammer
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A classic of IOP. Grab a drink and sit outside on the back deck to watch the waves crash on the beach.
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The Dinghy
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Cross the street to hear some more local music. A great local spot for wings as well.
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Poe's Tavern
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Inspired by Edgar Allen Poe and his poems from his time on Sullivan's Island. I love coming here to grab a burger and people watch.
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The Obstinate Daughter
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A fancier dining experience on the island, but definitely worth it. You can grab some ice cream as well on your way out.
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The Co-Op Frosé & Eatery
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Everything is pink. Everything. And the delicious rosé ties it all together.
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Mainland Container Co. Kitchen & Bar
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A locals bar that feels like your backyard. Catch the live music and the oyster roasts.
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These are just a few suggestions for a 3 day trip of Charleston. Do them in any order and take as much time as you want exploring. Charleston time is much slower. 🌴
If you want more suggestions, personal itineraries, or any other travel tips, follow and message me ⚡
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mateo Gomez
Hi! I'm Mateo. Born in South America and raised in Charleston, SC, I love exploring the world.
One of the first things I do when I visit somewhere new, the first question I ask is "Where do the locals go?" Consider me as your digital local.
These guides will help you plan your trip. Wander around and discover the hidden gems.
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