That Southern Charm: Charleston Edition
Photography by Meg Niemann | @MSNPhotography
I recently went to Charleston, the oldest city in South Carolina (founded in 1670)! Charleston is home to Fort Sumter; where the official beginning of the civil war took place. I was so impressed as to how much of the rich cultural heritage has been preserved over the years. Loved how this place has a little bit of everything: beach life, city and rural living!!! I listed a few restaurants, shops, hotels & activities you MUST check out if your headed down to this southern city!
Where to Stay:
Zero George – This boutique Hotel has a very homey feel to it, with a very present southern atmosphere!
The Dewberry – This is where I stayed! I loved how charming it is, and also how conveniently close it is to King St.
Belmond Charleston Place – Located in the heart of Charleston! I would definitely stay here if I were to go back.
Dress: Veronica Beard / Panama Hat: Free People / Shoes: Who What Wear / Bag: Brahmin / Earrings: Kendra Scott
Dress: Veronica Beard / Shoes: Who What Wear / Bag: Chanel (similar here & here) / Earrings: Rebecca De Ravenel / Sunglasses: Ray Ban
Where To Eat
Breakfast:
Hominy – Such a homey atmosphere. Their buttermilk pancakes are excellent and don’t forget to try their homemade jam!
The Daily – This boutique coffee shop serves a great variety of healthy options, especially their fresh juices and yogurt parfaits.
Butcher & Bee – The menu is made up of seasonal options making the food exceptionally favorable! (Has great vegetarian options as well!) This place has a strong country vibe to it!
Lunch:
Cru Café – The restaurant is located in an old house. Its southern hospitality is very present here especially in the food, people and atmosphere.
167 Raw – The lobster roll, and fried oysters are INSANE! Make sure to get their early though because they don't take reservations and the place is tiny!
Xiao Bao Biscuit – Asian cuisine in a trendy setting.
Coffee:
Black Tap - The perfect place to grab a coffee with an old friend. Both the almond milk chai and the lavender latte are a MUST!
Drinks:
Watch – This rooftop has one of the most gorgeous views in Charleston!
Vendue - Must stop by Zero George for a drink before dinner
*One of my favorite things to do is stop by other hotels when traveling to a new destination. It’s always fun to see the different vibes they each have to offer!
Dinner:
Halls Chophouse – Great seafood and beef, their service is also amazing!
Leon’s – A cute, low-key dinner destination with great seafood options and delish fried chicken!
The Ordinary – Major old school ambiance. As an appetizer make sure to order the caviar and the peel and eat shrimp. I also highly recommend the shrimp and Hawaiian bread roll!
Husk – I was told by a number of people to come have dinner here. Although it is amazing, the food is definitely heavy so if you want something light, save it for another night.
Dress: Poupette / Shoes: Nine West / Bag: Chanel (similar here & here)
Activities:
Plantations:
Boone Hall – THE NOTEBOOK WAS FILMED HERE!!!!
Magnolia – Lots of fun things to do inside! There is a petting zoo, a boat ride, a swamp walk and even a little café.
History:
Aiken-Rhett House – A house from the 1800’s filled with history and even was a home to a number of slaves.
Hampton Park - Fun Fact: Hampton Park was modeled after Central Park in NYC!
Dress: LoveShackFancy / Shoes: Nine West / Hat: Free People
Where to Shop:
Hampden Clothing – Similar vibes to Intermix. Sick clothes, but a little pricey.
Mac & Murphy – The cutest boutique for post cards, pens & candles!
Blue Bicycle Books – I always love to find a good book store when I travel!
Hope you all enjoyed the Charleston guide! Headed to LA next, so let me know what you want to see or hear more of!
X kt