WEATHER
Jan -March:
66-43F,
mostly sunny
April -June:
79-51F,
mostly sunny
July -Sept:
88-72F,
mostly sunny
Oct -Dec:
75-46F,
mostly sunny
Charleston's weather is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Summers, which typically span from June to September, are long and sweltering. Humidity levels can be quite high during this time, making it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, providing some relief from the heat.
We suggest visiting in May or October (spooky season).
"No city could be more beautiful than Charleston during the brief reign of azaleas, no city on earth.."
- Pat Conroy
The fourth dimension seems a little hazier in this city that is so trapped in time. As you walk the streets of Charleston, ghosts are surely walking alongside you. And they carry with them a million different stories that died with them and are forever lost to history. While Chucktown was a paradise to some and a nightmare to others, it is undoubtedly a place that can teach lessons to all of us. But between all of these historical and moral lessons, do not forget to stop and smell the azaleas or grab a cocktail on top of an iconic rooftop bar. Soak up each moment and make your own stories along the way, because inevitably a day will come when each of us turns into a ghost, forever trying to share our stories from the beyond.
From its humble beginnings as a colonial outpost to its pivotal role in the American Revolution and the Civil War, Charleston has left an indelible mark on American history. It is perhaps the remaining city that resembles America in its infancy.
Boone Hall Plantation
(see "The 'P' Word" section below)
Charleston played a significant role in the American Revolution. In 1776, the city saw the first major victory of the Patriots against the British in the southern theater of the war. The Battle of Sullivan's Island, fought just outside Charleston's harbor, proved a pivotal moment in the war effort and boosted morale among the American forces.
The city's prominence continued into the 19th century, but Charleston also became a flashpoint for the growing tensions between the North and the South. In 1861, the first shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter, located in Charleston Harbor. The city became a key Confederate stronghold and a target for Union forces, leading to a devastating four-year siege that left Charleston in ruins.
After the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, Charleston faced the challenges of reconstruction and a changing social order. The city's African American community played a crucial role in shaping its future, advocating for civil rights and making significant contributions to arts, education, and politics (to name a few).
Founded in 1670 by English settlers under the leadership of Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper, the city was strategically located on the coast, providing access to the Atlantic Ocean and serving as an important port for trade and commerce. It quickly became a prosperous center for agriculture, with the cultivation of rice, indigo, and later, cotton, driving the economy.
In the 18th century, Charleston emerged as a leading cultural and intellectual hub in the American colonies. The city boasted a vibrant social scene, with theaters, libraries, and the establishment of the first museum in the country, the Charleston Museum. Influential figures such as the statesman John Rutledge and the writer Charles Pinckney hailed from Charleston, contributing to the city's intellectual and political legacy.
However, the dark truth of Charleston it that it was built by slaves. The economy was heavily dependent on enslaved labor, and it became a major hub of the transatlantic slave trade. Rice and indigo fields of the surrounding plantations would be ghost manors without the slaves they so heavily depended on. The grim reality of slavery shaped the social fabric of Charleston, leaving lasting scars that are still felt today.
In recent decades, Charleston has experienced a revitalization and renaissance. The preservation and restoration of its historic architecture and neighborhoods have earned the city a reputation as a living museum. Today, Charleston's historical significance, combined with its vibrant culture, culinary scene, and Southern charm, make it a popular destination for tourists and a beloved place to call home.
While Charleston pays homage to its devastating history, it serves as a reminder of the complex and layered truths of this country, and the hope that one day soon there will be liberty and justice for all.
South of Broad
In the heart of Charleston, the Historic District is famous for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful gardens. Here, you'll find iconic landmarks such as Rainbow Row, the Battery, and historic mansions like the Aiken-Rhett House and the Nathaniel Russell House. The area is also home to renowned museums, art galleries, and popular shopping and dining destinations. Located within the Historic District, the French Quarter showcases a blend of French, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. The neighborhood is characterized by its narrow streets, charming alleyways, and historic churches. It is also home to the Dock Street Theatre, one of the oldest theaters in the United States, as well as a thriving arts scene with numerous galleries and studios.
Situated at the southern tip of the Historic District, South of Broad is known for its elegant homes, picturesque gardens, and waterfront views. The neighborhood features grand mansions, including the famous Calhoun Mansion and the Edmondston-Alston House. Strolling along its tree-lined streets offers a glimpse into Charleston's storied past and architectural beauty. Located adjacent to the Historic District, the Market District is a bustling area centered around the City Market that offers an array of local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. .
Waterfront Park
Known as the city's "Design District," Upper King Street has transformed into a trendy neighborhood filled with boutique hotels, fashionable shops, and acclaimed restaurants. It has become a popular destination for food enthusiasts, with a wide range of culinary experiences, from Southern comfort food to innovative cuisine. Located just north of the Historic District, Cannonborough-Elliotborough has become a hip and vibrant neighborhood. It offers a blend of historic homes, local shops, and eclectic eateries. The area has a youthful energy and is known for its lively nightlife, with popular bars, live music venues, and craft breweries.
Situated across the Ashley River from downtown Charleston, West Ashley offers a mix of suburban and rural landscapes. It is a residential area with a variety of housing options, from established neighborhoods to newer developments. West Ashley also boasts beautiful natural surroundings, including parks, rivers, and the scenic plantations of Drayton Hall and Middleton Place.
TOP TO DO'S
Safety
While it's always important to be vigilante, Charleston is one of America's safest cities, especially if you're staying in a neighborhood like South of Broad or Elliotborough/Cannonborough. Lowcountry geography might be your biggest worry as hurricanes/flooding will always be a mild risk.
Transportation
Charleston is extremely pedestrian and biker friendly, but ride-sharing apps will be your best friend for long-haul excursions to the beach or to visit a plantation site. They are readily If you're lodging anywhere near King Street, most attractions will be accessible by taking a stroll around the beautiful city streets!
Currency
Charleston, like all American cities, uses the US dollar. Most stores, restaurants, and activities accept major credit credits or Apple Pay. We highly recommend bringing cash to tip any tour guides you may hire at around 10-20% of the cost of the excursion depending on how much you enjoyed it. Service workers also should be tipped 15-20% of the bill.
Southern
Hospitality
While Charleston is very easy-going and casual, politeness and manners are still gold here. A simple "yes ma'am" or "no sir" and "thank you" and "please" go a long way. People expect a smile and hello as they pass you and perhaps even some small talk. Do not be taken off guard if someone here goes out of their way for you - it happened to us!
This fresh and minimalist coffeehouse has cold-pressed juices, coffees and the best breakfast food. A local told us to order the avocado toast with whipped feta on top (my mouth is actually watering writing that). Be warned... it's so good you might have to wait in a line outside!
This avant-garde rooftop bar has all the views (and cocktails) you could ask for. The interior is large and decadent, and the food is Southern with a French finish. Enjoy a cocktail or two amongst the rooftop views of the Le Jardin.
Experience sophisticated, yet relaxed new American cuisine amongst the backdrop of a former church. The inside has the entire book of "The Art of War" written throughout it!
Inspired by European street cafes, here you can have espresso in the morning and cocktails by evening. They also serve casual fare like sandwiches for lunch. We recommend the peanut milk to add to your coffee!
Supposedly one of the oldest dives in Charleston (and surely one of the greatest), owner Dan Wenz estimates that there are over 25,000 dollar bills stapled to the interior of his bar. They also happen to serve great brews, pub food, and usually have live music.
No trip to Charleston is complete without Lowcountry seafood! Here you will find seafood delicacies, a vibrant raw bar, and a delightful selection of wines and cocktails all within a charming heritage home.
Named for the famous pooch that roomed the neighborhood streets, Poogan's is sure to impress you with a big Southern breakfast featuring Lowcountry cuisine in an old Victorian manor. Many famous visitors have dined here!
VB Tip: Oyster Roister
Notice a lot of oyster symbols around Charleston? The local waters provide an ideal habitat for oysters to thrive with the combination of brackish estuaries, nutrient-rich tidal creeks, and the nearby Atlantic Ocean.
Oysters have been a staple food source for Charlestonians for generations. Native American tribes, such as the Sewee and the Kiawah, were known to harvest oysters in the area long before European settlers arrived. The early settlers, recognizing the abundance and quality of the local oysters, quickly adopted them into their diet as well. Over time, the popularity of oysters in Charleston grew, and they became a vital part of the local cuisine. Oysters were not only valued for their taste but also for their accessibility and affordability. They were readily available in the surrounding marshes and tidal flats, making them an accessible food source for both wealthy and working-class residents.
Oysters also play a crucial role in Charleston's ecosystem. They filter and purify the water, improving its quality and promoting a healthy marine environment. Oyster reefs provide habitat for other marine species, contributing to the overall biodiversity and ecological balance of the area. Today, Charleston continues to embrace its oyster heritage. The city is home to numerous oyster festivals and seafood celebrations, where locals and visitors can savor the briny flavors of freshly harvested oysters.
Get the full dine guide (over 100 restaurants) with our downloadable travel itinerary!
Dresses can be worn almost all year in Charleston. Ruffles and florals are super common, but opt for sleek and minimal if you want to stand out!
Make sure you bring plenty of activewear for working out or hiking.
Click the picture to purchase!
We recommend outfits that can be worn with flats during the day and heels by night!
Comfy shoes for lots of walking!
This fit can be worn as casual streetwear or a beach coverup! Extra light layers are the way to go in this city.
VB Tip: Fancy a dance?
The Charleston, initially a well-known black folk dance with roots traced back to 1903, gained prominence in the American South, particularly in black communities in Charleston, South Carolina. Notably, its rhythmic movements bear striking similarities to dances observed in Trinidad, Nigeria, and Ghana.The Charleston gained mainstream attention and popularity when it was introduced to Broadway in the 1923 musical "Runnin' Wild," with featured song "The Charleston" by composer James P. Johnson, which became the iconic theme for the dance. The performance by the cast, including African American dancers, brought the dance into the spotlight and sparked a nationwide craze.
The Charleston quickly became a sensation in the Roaring Twenties, as it perfectly embodied the spirit of the era characterized by rebellion against traditional social norms and a desire for liberation and enjoyment. The dance became synonymous with the carefree and energetic lifestyle of the time, with people of all ages and backgrounds eager to learn and perform it. The Charleston's popularity continued throughout the 1920s, with dance competitions and contests held in dance halls and speakeasies across the country. It became a symbol of the Jazz Age and the flapper culture, as women embraced the dance and its lively movements as a form of personal expression and freedom.
as the locals say...
Nyam:
Eat
Go away
Galang:
Hunnuh:
Hello
Tata:
Goodbye
Brer:
Brother
Chas/Chuck:
Charleston
Oonu:
You
Dun:
Done
Lowcountry:
Area in and around Charleston
Cumya:
Come here
Referring to a popular dance style in the coastal region, often associated with beach music.
Shaggin:
Ting:
Jusnow:
A little while ago
Thing
POP QUIZ!
WATCH
Dear John
The Patriot
The Conspirator
Southern Charm
Reckless
For Charleston
Charleton: Voices Through Time
The Charleston Story
READ
The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix
South of Broad by Pat Conroy
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy
The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks
Indians of the South Carolina Lowcountry by Gene Waddell
Gullah is an African Creole language and cultural identity primarily spoken and preserved by descendants of enslaved Africans from the coastal regions of South Carolina and Georgia in the United States. It developed as a blend of various African languages, some from Sierra Leone, Angola, and Congo, as well as English. Enslaved Africans in these regions were brought to work on the rice and indigo plantations during the colonial era, and the languages blended into Gullah, which is characterized by its distinct vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, influenced by African languages and English. The language has its own unique rhythm, intonation, and pronunciation patterns, often described as melodic and musical. Gullah also incorporates African cultural elements and traditions that have been preserved through generations.
To learn and grow, we have to look introspectively and ask ourselves where have we fallen short in the past. What blinders did we have on? How can we grow from where we are now? I used to love Gone With the Wind when I was younger. I read the book front to back and watched the movie a thousand times, so enamored with fiery, independent, and flawed Scarlett O’Hara that I couldn’t see I was romanticizing a past of tainted Midas gold, or rather blood money, stolen from the lives of black people.
More over the expansive, traumatizing history of slavery in this country, even at the microscopic level of this one movie, black castmates renounced their belittling roles and the way they were treated. Talented Butterfly McQueen said she “hated” her role. So maybe you can understand my surprise that when we went to Boone Hall Plantation, after much research and vetting for a responsible tour, I found a glass-encased Scarlett O’Hara doll on display with no description or marker. When I asked why it was there, the tour guide was unable to substantiate the reason, if there is one at all. That doll seemed somewhat maniacal sitting there juxtaposed to bricks that slaves laid.
Here’s what I would have done differently:
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Avoid plantations that offer weddings or trip packages or seasonal money-grabs
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I was initially really encouraged by the middle of the tour and my pre-tour jitters and reservations had dissipated through the abundance of information about hard topics. However, by the last hour of the day, we were on a tractor ride that felt like a walking advertisement for the plantation’s various seasonal activities. Who profits from these activities?
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Look for living descendants of former slaves and their stories
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Additionally looking back, I realized that a lot of the videos viewed like a PBS documentary on slavery… like a bird’s eye view of the time period. Where are the bespoke stories about what the slaves on this plantation went through? Where are their descendants? Are they board members? Do they have creative directorial power over the experiences?
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Ask about reparations
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Over 200 years of slavery built the United States. Today, various families and operations still profit residually from what slaves built, and many have experienced generational wealth and benefits that will never be quantified. As you purchase a ticket ask yourself where does that money go? Beyond monetary reparations, what are these organizations doing in the community? Are they holding celebrations or events to raise awareness? Ar
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Ask about Indigenous stories
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The land was stolen from these communities first. Are they being represented in any way? The Catawba, Pee Dee, Chicora, Edisto, Santee, Yamassee, and Chicora-Waccamaw tribes are still active in South Carolina today. Their ancestors know these lands better than anyone else’s.
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This is not to say that you can not have an educational, even enjoyable experience, but hold these organizations accountable. I had an incredible time at Boone Hall and learned so much. The Gullah representation is a real highlight of my time in Charleston. But I still think about that Scarlett O’Hara doll. Why is it showcased? And why do I not know the name of a single former slave from the plantation? As a visitor, you are allowed to ask questions or comment on things that don’t feel right. I wish I would have questioned more. Silence is enabling.
I hope that I inspire just one person to not be silent.
McLeod Plantation Historic Site
60+ names of former slaves are honored on the grounds and the site was named an International Site of Conscience.
Middleton Place
Descendants of former slaves have consultation posts in this organization. They also host descendant reunions and share the stories of specific former slaves.
Boone Hall
While I denounce profiteering and have stated my grievances, I would be remiss to not state how much I learned in my visit, specifically from the Gullah Show which was incredibly moving.
Ethical Tourism
Protect Our Planet And Its People
It is universally agreed amongst scientists and conservationists that humans have had a negative effect on wildlife. From decimating natural habitats to poaching, we each have a responsibility to make sure we are experiencing and learning from the world, but positively not negatively.
Here are our suggestions:
1. Carriage rides. Please reconsider this tourist activity. Charleston has been called upon by many animal rights groups and activists to end carriage-drawn horse rides. Lawsuits were filed after a horse named Big John collapsed carrying a group that was too heavy for him in sweltering conditions. While moderate exercise is good for horses, there is simply no way to ensure that your tour is treating these animals humanely and the Charleston Animal Society has concluded that the current carriage-drawn tours in Charleston are NOT treating their animals properly. Opt for a walking or bike tour that is just as enjoyable without the suffering of animals. We beg all tourists to stop funding and being an active or passive participant in animal torture.
2. Black history. During your time traveling, please consider the impact that black lives had on the city of Charleston. See this site for a comprehensive list of historical sites you can visit.
VAGABLOG
South Carolina beaches
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VAGABLOG
The "p" word
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VAGABLOG
South of Broad map
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