Whether you are visiting Charleston or vacationing on one of the barrier islands and want to explore, there is literally something for everyone downtown. Charleston, South Carolina has long been a favorite destination, and for good reason. It’s small enough to get around on foot or bike (or bike taxi!), but has a rich culinary and cultural side. The history, cobblestones and preserved architecture give way to lush parks and gorgeous waterfront vistas. Stay for a week or dip in for an afternoon!
Charleston Restaurants
Breakfast:
The Marina Variety Store is an institution and local favorite. Perched above the Ashley River and overlooking the marina, it’s an authentic, throwback diner and old-fashioned seafood restaurant. The no frills ambiance is endearing, and the view is outstanding. If there’s a wait for a table, you can wander out to the docks to check out the boats.
Edmund’s Oast is a fun dinner spot perfect for larger groups, but their brunch is out of this world! The beer hall has all the classics, but made with top ingredients and prepared just a bit fancier than you’d expect.
Lunch:
Taco Boy is one of our favorite downtown spots for lunch with the whole family or friends. It has easy parking (a rare thing downtown) and an enormous outdoor patio that’s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. The food is Mexican-inspired and absolutely delicious, as are the margaritas.
Basic Kitchen is located just off King Street near the College of Charleston, so it’s a great place to eat if you’re shopping or exploring the area. The menu is seasonal and caters to all (the vegan options are some of my favorite things on the menu!), and the vibe is relaxed. There is a cute back patio and options for kids.
Dinner:
Known for their fried chicken, oysters and lively ambiance, Leon’s draws a mix of foodie tourists and locals. It is located in an old garage, and the garage doors stay open most of the year. There are tasty salads, sandwiches, cocktails and even ice cream cones (with sprinkles!) for dessert!
You can’t come to Charleston without hitting up at least one bbq joint! Every local has their favorite, but most can agree that Lewis is incredible. Order your cut and sides indoors (served on an old school cafeteria tray with brown paper, naturally) and then head outside to eat at under the trees at one of the casual picnic tables. Like most things in Charleston, it’s authentic with an extra dose of sophistication.
Charleston Parks
Charleston Waterfront Park is where you will find the iconic- often photographed- pineapple fountain. Overlooking the Charleston Harbor, it’s a quiet place perfect for a picnic or lazy afternoon.
Hampton Park offers 60 acres of gorgeously maintained nature, with a fitness trail, duck pond, gazebo and playground We love to go on weekends with bikes or scooters to explore, climb the ancient oak trees and feed the ducks. It is also next to The Citadel, which is fun to drive through!
Brittlebank is another one of our go-to parks with the kids or dogs. It’s situated along the Ashley River and has an awesome playground, space to play and fishing dock. It’s especially great during the high heat of summer, when the breeze off the river is welcomed with open arms.
Rainy Day
The Charleston Aquarium is a must-stop for families! It is an enormous, incredibly run facility right on the water. There are touch tanks and hands-on activities for the kids, and the view is awesome!
History lovers and children love the USS Yorktown and Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum. A vessel in both World War II and The Vietnam War, the huge aircraft carrier is now open to the public as a museum. You could spend an entire day wandering around- there’s so much to see and learn.
#1 Charleston Vacation Tip
Book your portrait session before your trip! Click HERE to see recent family portraits. Call 843 442-0802 or fill out my contact form NOW to book your family portrait.
