CHARLESTON CITY GUIDE

Charleston, South Carolina, is what Southern Hospitality is all about. From a quaint historic district, beautiful beaches, pastel-colored buildings, and incredible food, you’ll find plenty to do, see, and eat in bustling Charleston. Charleston is a bachelorette destination for any type of bride! Something to note: Charleston has hurricane season so go before between November – May and June and parts of July can work as well.

WHERE TO STAY

The Ryder Hotel: In the heart of downtown Charleston, The Ryder Hotels is a boutique escape-meets-experience hotel. Guests come for the vibe and stay for the stories, The hotel allows your group to embrace their fun-loving, free-spirited side.

Belmond Charleston Place: The perfect location to stay at if you want to be conveniently located to most local attractions. Book your group into a presidential suite with a large living room and connected double suite so all the girls are together.

Hotel Bennett: When you’re traveling with a bachelorette squad, where you stay sets the tone for the weekend! If you’re a smaller group and seeking luxe amenities, European finishes, comfort, and remarkable hospitality you’re after, Hotel Bennett is where you need to stay. The double queen rooms are plenty spacious for a sleepover with your girls.

The Spectator Hotel: Who needs Will or Harry when you can be treated like royalty without them?! At the intersection of Charleston charm and Jazz-age charisma sits the Spectator Hotel. The A+ treatment provided includes old-school butler service & welcome cocktails plus the rooms have spa-like bathrooms and luxurious bedding to come home to after a night out.

The Restoration: You’ll find The Restoration on the red brick streets of the King Street Historic District in Charleston. The hotel’s sprawling suites are specifically designed for sharing which lets the bride and her girls enjoy a fun and hip sleepover-style weekend.

WHERE TO EAT

Butcher & Bee: Not only is this a great restaurant for a big group, but it’s also very Instagram worthy, with a whimsical bike filled with wildflowers in the front hall; picture-perfect baked pastries and an alfresco deck to savor your breakfast out in the sun.

Leon’s Oyster Shop: A low-key joint serving with the best-fried chicken and oyster selections in town. It’s a local favorite service that also serves frosé all day.

Cannon Green: If your bride loves art, good architecture, and lots of greenery, then definitely go to Cannon Green. With its vibrant restaurant space, outdoor courtyard, and private event room, Cannon Green is among the most unique downtown Charleston restaurants. Book seats at the “Chef’s Table” and enjoy the prix-fixe brunch menu.

The Harbinger Cafe: Love supporting local women entrepreneurs? YAS? Then this is your spot. Head to Harbinger for a handcrafted, health-conscious breakfast, plus a coffee bar. The decor here is straight out of Pinterest and the food is delicious.

Poogan’s Porch: Tucked away on charming Queen Street in a Victorian townhouse with porches & a massive wine cellar.

Home Team BBQ: Brunch, lunch, or dinner, Home Team never disappoints with their unique approach by bringing the fundamentals of the “white tablecloth” world to the low and slow ideals of BBQ.

Stars Rooftop & Grill Room: Their seasonal menu & mid-1930s vibe boasts a rooftop bar & wood-fired oven. Their rooftop bar, with sweeping views, makes it the ultimate place for drinks with the girls.

Little Jack’s Tavern: Awarded the best burger of the nation in 2017, Little Jack’s Tavern is a delightful burger joint with a throwback ambiance. Plus, it’s a great dining option for large groups.

Nico: All the rage since recently hitting the scene. An upbeat seafood brasserie for oysters, cocktails & market-fresh, imaginative French fare.

Le Farfalle: Nestled in the comfortable Harleston Village. Thoughtfully sourced, innovative Italian small plates, handmade pasta, hearty entrees, and unique cocktails hallmark this bright and airy neighborhood Italian restaurant.

WHERE TO DRINK

Camellias: A stunning pink champagne bar in an upscale hotel reflects a piece of Charleston history. The champagne lounge features an extensive collection of bottle and by-the-glass offerings paired with a decadent selection of caviar, ceviche, and tartare.

Dalila’s: In the heart of Charleston, a retro Caribbean vibe 1950s-inspired cocktail bar and lounge, offers unique, and very strong, cocktails influenced with a Caribbean flair.

Prohibition: Step back in time at this Jazz Age vintage-themed bar with exceptionally creative cocktails and a lovely outdoor patio.

Faculty Lounge: Look for a bright red door on the corner of Huger Street but for entry, ring the doorbell. Be a part of an exclusive, but low-key, neighborhood bar offering brandy-laced libations, esoteric spirits, and affordable beer.

The Gin Joint: For a more cozy vibe, tucked back off of East Bay Street, you will find no shortage of booze here. They offer balanced cocktails off their seasonal drink menu or if you’re feeling lucky, Bartender’s Choice. Words from The Gin Joint,” We may not change your life, but we can help you Drink Proper.”

The Cocktail Club: The best “farm-to-shaker” cocktails in town using house-made infusions, rare liquors, syrups, and spices. This lounge is dedicated to the art of the craft cocktail and a “must-see” rooftop.

WHAT TO DO

Rainbow Row: You can’t visit Charleston without seeing the cities most famous attribute, Rainbow Row. It’s known for its stunning architecture, so make sure to bring your camera and take pics with your besties in front of Federalist style homes painted in the palest shades of sherbet.

Live music and tastings at Firefly Distillery: Enjoy socially distanced live music and tastings at Firefly Distillery. Bring a blanket and your favorite lawn game and grab a spot on the field while you enjoy some live music, awesome bites from a food truck, Firefly spirits, and cocktails.

A Relaxing Spa Day: Pamper yourselves after a fun weekend of exploring the city. When you walk through the doors at The Spa at Belmond, one of the best hotel spas in Charleston, has everything you need to paint the perfect picture of restfulness. Contact them to set up an appointment and find out about their services.

Candle Making at Candlefish: Choose your own scents from their extensive (and visually stunning) collection while sipping on chilled rosé and munching on cheese and crackers at one of Charleston’s most celebrated home goods store.

Bike Around: Downtown Charleston is compact enough to rent bikes and stroll the streets taking in all the quaintness and history the city has to offer. For some extra cuteness, decorate the bride’s bike to let the town know she’s GETTING MARRIED!

Head to the Beach: Charleston has more than the city to offer with multiple islands and stunning coastlines just off of the city, accessible by bridges. Go to Folly Beach for a low-key beach town feel, or Sullivan’s Island which has a charming restaurant district — anchored by Poe’s Tavern — and a 15-minute commute from downtown (without traffic). Also, there’s no charge to enjoy the beach.

WHERE TO SHOP

King Street

The futuristic Miracle Mile Shops is home to fine art galleries, Nevada’s first H&M, Nevada’s largest Victoria Secrets, and nearly 200 additional shops.

Charleston City Market

One of the South’s most vibrant and historic places. With about 300 daily vendors in its historic Great Hall and open-air sheds, the Charleston City Market is a shopping smorgasbord.

Shops at Belmond

An upscale mini-mall tucked into the lobby level of the luxury Belmond Charleston Place complex with more than two dozen high-end stores including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, L’Occitane, and Calypso St. Barth.