Charleston’s meteoric rise in popularity is a testament to its irresistible blend of innovative cuisine, colonial architecture, and warm Southern hospitality. While it’s true that the city draws big crowds—including the occasional bachelorette party—it remains a charming and worthwhile destination for a long weekend escape.
Few American cities manage to preserve small-town charm while accommodating nearly eight million visitors each year, and Charleston pulls it off with an unmatched degree of grace and sophistication. Whether you plan to visit for the food, the history, or the coastal vibes, we’ve rounded up our favorite spots for a perfect 48-hour stay in this South Carolina gem.
Sleep in the lap of luxury
Charleston offers no shortage of historic hotels and quirky bed-and-breakfasts, but the AAA Four Diamond Hotel Bennett combines sleek, modern finishes with old Hollywood glamour—making it genuinely difficult to find a reason to leave your room (which, frankly, feels fit for royalty).
Hotel highlights also include Camellias, a blush-pink oasis of luxury on the ground floor that practically begs to be photographed during the afternoon tea service, which features caviar, charcuterie, and homemade pastries. In fact, the restaurant was named South Carolina’s “Most Instagrammable Restaurant” by the Food Network. The hotel’s rooftop bar, Fiat Lux, is the ideal spot to wind down with a nightcap and take in panoramic views of the city—including Marion Square, a central green space that anchors downtown Charleston and regularly features festivals and farmers markets.
Hit top attractions
As with any major city, there is plenty to see and do. But what makes Charleston unique is its diversity of activities, both indoor and outdoor, that range from historical and thought-provoking to gastronomical and entertaining.
Here are a handful to consider.
- Fort Sumter National Monument - It will require a ferry ride, but the historic sea fort, which symbolizes the start of the Civil War, is a must-visit.
- Historic Charleston City Market - Charleston’s most-visited attraction showcases one-of-a-kind works of local artists and entrepreneurs, including the sweetgrass basketry of Gullah artisans.
- Rainbow Row - The landmark 13 pastel-hued townhouses are worth the Instagram post alone.
- King Street – Shop ’til you drop (or until you need sustenance in the form of world-famous hush puppies and she-crab soup) on this famous street filled with fashion, antiques, home decor, and eateries.
- Battery Park and White Point Gardens - Take a break under old oaks in this shaded park with views of Charleston Harbor and an impressive array of Civil War cannons and statues.
Explore area plantations
Charleston’s natural beauty unfolds in layers—from its manicured parks and coastal escapes to horse-drawn carriage rides beneath centuries-old angel oaks. Among the Lowcountry’s most iconic landscapes are its historic, sprawling plantations. They serve as open-air museums that reflect the region’s grandeur and its legacy of injustice, offering a thought-provoking window into America’s complicated history amid lush gardens and grand architecture.
During a two-day trip, consider devoting some time to visiting one of these nearby plantations:
- Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens - With its breathtaking Avenue of the Oaks, it’s a popular stop for its live presentations, historic slave cabins, and insight into Gullah culture.
- Magnolia Plantation & Gardens - One of the oldest public gardens in the US, punctuated by vibrant azaleas and moss-draped oaks, it offers six miles of walking and biking trails to explore at your leisure.
Feast on comfort food and world-class cuisine
As a world-renowned hub for culinary excellence, Charleston offers no shortage of dining options to round out your itinerary.
For breakfast, start your day with a biscuit sampler from beloved Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit, or take a seat at Acme Lowcountry Kitchen, where Southern staples such as fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and fried pecan chicken take center stage.
For lunch, grab a house-roasted Wagyu beef sandwich or chopped salad at Ted’s Butcherblock, or opt for the signature porchetta sandwich at Da Toscana Porchetta Shop.
Dinner is where Charleston’s culinary scene truly shines. The city offers an array of cuisine from inspired chefs influenced by local tradition and global flair, making evening meals a trip highlight. A few stand-out spots include the following:
- FIG - A James Beard Award-winning restaurant that showcases locally sourced produce and sustainably raised meats on a seasonal menu that pays homage to the bounty of the Lowcountry.
- The Ordinary - Set in a former bank, this seafood hall offers oysters, crudos, and stunning seafood towers in a stylish yet relaxed setting.
- The Darling Oyster Bar - Another go-to for fresh oysters and Lowcountry seafood classics, The Darling is housed in a charming vintage storefront.
- Lewis Barbecue - A must for Texas-style barbeque enthusiasts, it’s known for its perfectly smoked brisket.
- Hannibal’s Kitchen - A Charleston mainstay that specializes in drool-worthy Gullah Geechee dishes such as crab rice and okra soup.
- Ma’am Saab - This modern Pakistani eatery generates buzz for its fish curries, spiced ground lamb, and samosas.
Make room for dessert, of course. While Off Track may better describe your diet at this point, it’s also the name of a downtown ice cream parlor worth the indulgence. Its salted pretzel toffee flavor is reason enough to stop by.
Sip, sip, hooray
A pre- or post-meal libation is almost as important as the meal itself—especially in Charleston, where the city’s cocktail scene is as spirited as its cuisine. Whether you’re awaking the palate with an expertly crafted cocktail or toasting with a celebratory glass of wine, you’ll find plenty of beverage-focused venues to satisfy your thirst.
Here’s where to sip in style.
- The Gin Joint - This Charleston classic for gin lovers exudes old-school ambience.
- Doar Bros. - Chic, intimate, and quietly luxurious, this cocktail lounge impresses with both modern and timeless drinks.
- Dalila’s - This fun spot features Caribbean-inspired cocktails and a seasonal menu inspired by tropical island flavors.
- Graft Wine Shop - Equal parts wine bar and retail shop, this is the best place to sip and shop. Run by sommelier duo Femi and Miles, it's a local favorite where the playlist is always as good as the pour.
No matter your trip intention, Charleston is bound to exceed your highest expectations. It’s chock-full of fascinating history, inspiring scenery, award-winning eats, and friendly locals who enjoy sharing their city with anyone in need of a weekend escape.