Over Labor Day weekend we decided to go on a road trip to Charleston South Carolina. It’s about 8 hours from Nashville and such a beautiful drive. I’ve been to Charleston a handful of times but my husband had never been before and wanted to see this beautiful part of the United States for himself. Today I’m sharing our full Charleston itinerary and all the things we did during our three days there.
How to Spend 3 Days in Charleston
Where to Stay
French Quarter Inn Hotel
We chose at the French Quarter Inn during our 3 days in Charleston and it was the perfect spot. Located right next to the Charleston City Market and within walking distance to all the historic homes and places to see. We stayed in the Deluxe Market View Terrace Suite which had two queen beds, refrigerator, bathtub, walk in shower, fireplace and so many amenities. I especially loved the complimentary bikes are available 24/7 so you can ride all over the city and explore.
Other complimentary amenities include daily breakfast (in your room or lobby) from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., valet parking, evening wine + cheese reception from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., sweet tea and candy 24/7, and nightly freshly baked cookies and milk from 8:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. They also have a bar in the lobby where you can get wine or a cocktail in the evening. I give the French Quarter Inn 10/10 for location and amenities!
What to Do for 3 Days in Charleston
- Walk Rainbow Row – On the first day you have to go to rainbow row and get “the” shot. I come here everytime and the beautiful, colored homes gives me an instant dopamine boost.
- Shop on King Street – If you want to stay in Downtown Charleston, explore King Street. They have boutiques, antiques and local shops. They also have shops like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Sezane, Anthropologie and more.
- Wander through Magnolia Plantation and Gardens – Start a morning by driving out to Magnolia Plantation Gardens. You’ll see stunning landscapes, oak trees with Spanish moss and rich history.
- See Street Vendors at the Charleston City Market – Wander through the Charleston City Market browsing through local artisans, Gullah sweetgrass baskets and souvenirs.
- Relax at Folly Beach – Need a beach day? Drive 30 minutes to Folly Beach for sand, surf and a laid back vibe. Stop at Taco Boy Folly Beach for a casual lunch.
- Watch a Sunset at Waterfront Park – If you don’t want to do a sunset harbor cruise, just head to Waterfront Park and enjoy a sunset on a park bench. It’s so beautiful there and also some great people watching.
- Enjoy a Historic Guided Tour – Stroll along Rainbow Row, the Battery and White Point Garden for pastel houses, cobblestone streets and waterfront views. Plus learn some history and fun facts along the way!
- Historic Homes & Gardens – Tour the Nathaniel Russell House or Aiken-Rhett House to get a feel for antebellum Charleston.
- Sunset Harbor Cruise – Take a boat ride to see Fort Sumter, dolphins, and Charleston’s skyline at golden hour.
- Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum – Established in 1938, the Old Slave Mart Museum is Charleston’s oldest museum of African American history and the first museum on the history of slavery in the United States. Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, the museum is housed in a portion of the city’s last major slave market
Where to Eat for 3 Days in Charleston
- Fleet Landing – a Waterfront seafood restaurant with outdoor seating and great Charleston harbor views.
- 82 Queen – A Charleston courtyard for dining under magnolia trees. I recommend their she-crab soup!
- Basic Kitchen – If you want to eat a little healthier, stop here for a stylish cafe with fresh, colorful plates. A great lunch option!
- Leon’s Oyster Shop – A casual and charming spot for oysters, fried chicken, and rose on tap!
- Frannie & the Fox – Located in Hotel Emaline, this italian-inspired place has a chic, intimate atmosphere and great pizza.
- FIG – FIG aka Food is Good is a Charleston institution with seasonal, elevated Souther dishes. It’s hard to get reservations but give it a shot!
- Chez Nous – This is a hidden, romantic gem in the historic district. The menu changes daily with two apps, two mains and two desserts. It’s very cozy and intimate.
- Peninsula Grill – The Peninsula Grill is classic Charleston fine dining and famous for their 12 layer coconut cake.
- Hall’s Chophouse – This is an upscale steakhouse with live music and perfect for a date night.
- Circa 1886 – A romantic, tucked-away spot inside a carriage house. It’s Southern fine dining with a creative twist!
- The Establishment – Seafood-focused fine dining with a modern, romantic ambiance.
- High Cotton – A sophisticated Lowcountry restaurant with live jazz in the evenings.
- Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit – Start your day with Charleston’s most famous and delicious biscuits!
- Poogan’s Porch – Classic southern fare in a charming Victorian house. Perfect for lunch.
- Husk – Enjoy dinner at this James Beard award winning southern dining with a modern twist.
- The Gin Joint – A cozy, intimate place to grab a cocktail after dinner.
What is Charleston known for?
Charleston, South Carolina, is primarily known for its architecture, history and cobblestone streets. It’s also famous for its Southern cuisine, which includes dishes like shrimp and grits and she-crab soup.
What is Charlestons nickname?
“The Holy City” or “Chucktown.”
How old is Charleston?
It was founded in 1670 so it’s 355 years old.
Three days was the perfect amount of time to spend in Charleston. We experienced everything the city had to offer and in early September the weather was perfect. If you have the chance, take a few days to experience the charm of Charleston for yourself!
Hi Greta! I love the pics and appreciate you sharing!! I’ve never been to Charleston, but this makes me want to go.