Charleston

Charleston Travel Tips

Stately centuries-old mansions, Spanish moss-draped trees, spooky cemeteries, cobblestone walks: in a word, Charleston. But this South Carolina city also boasts innovative restaurants, interesting shops, contemporary art galleries and the world-class Spoleto Festival USA. This is the place to experience the genteel South -- it was after all the home of suave Gone with the Wind character, Rhett Butler. And as you walk the gas lamp-lit streets at night, past horse-drawn carriages and the antebellum architecture, you just might think you’ve traveled back in time …
History pervades almost every aspect of this city, from the old majestic homes open to visitors to the museums that promote the city's place in United States history. Civil War buffs will get a taste of history at Fort Sumter, where the first shot of the War between the States was fired. Meanwhile, Charleston also offers a respectable shopping scene, with stores selling everything from local crafts to antiques to contemporary clothing. And beach bums will also find something to do; a quick drive from the city center, several quaint islands offer sun, sand and gentle waves.

How To Save Money in Charleston

• Visit in the winter You might catch a hotel deal by traveling in the off-season, and you'll definitely enjoy fewer tourists. Also, winter temperatures are hardly inhospitable -- they range between 40 and 60 degrees.
• Purchase travel insurance If you're traveling over hurricane season (June to November), you might buy travel insurance just in case a bad storm decides to spoil your vacation plans.
• Make lunch reservations Get the most bang for your buck by making lunch reservations -- rather than dinner ones -- at the most expensive places. Many eateries offer reduced-price midday menus.

Charleston Culture & Customs

Consider dressing up a little if you don't want to stick out as a tourist in Charleston. Residents like to take casual to another level; women wear skirts and dresses while you'll see many men dressed in khakis and polo shirts.
While you're in town, you might also get a glimpse into Gullah culture. The Gullah are Lowcountry African Americans whose ancestors were brought to Charleston in the slave trade. Their tradition has influenced a lot of Charleston cuisine, from the food (red rice, okra soup, gumbo) to the Bruh Rabbit folk stories (slave fables starring a devilish rabbit) to the songs (Michael Row the Boat Ashore). If you're shopping for souvenirs, keep an eye open for the Gullah's handcrafted Sweetgrass Baskets.

Charleston Dining

Charleston's dining scene has recently gone through a major revitalization. Where there used to be just Southern, Southern and more Southern restaurants, there are now French bistros, gourmet pizza places and trendy bakeries, among others. Some of the area's food also draws from the local Gullah culture, which puts a Creole-type twist on many Southern dishes. As a coastal city, Charleston is also known for fresh seafood, including famous local dishes like she-crab soup and shrimp and grits.
However, down-to-earth traditional Lowcountry and Southern cuisine thrives here, with simple and cozy dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Travelers recommend Magnolias restaurant in South of Broad to try Southern dishes like buttermilk fried chicken and pecan pie. A more affordable and casual alternative is Jestine's Kitchen on Meeting Street.