The Perfect Itinerary for a Memorable Day in Charleston
You decide to vacation to Charleston. You book your stay at The Palms. As your trip approaches, excitement and anticipation starts to wash over you until someone from your group raises the question: “What should we do while we’re there?”
Don’t panic – we’ve got you covered.
There’s a reason why the Holy City has hit the top of multiple “best of” lists over the years. It’s got something for everyone from partygoers to foodies, cultural enthusiasts, and history buffs. With so much to do, see, and experience, it can be overwhelming to narrow it down.
We know that visitors of The Palms are looking for relaxation with a heavy dose of fun. And one of the best ways to experience Charleston is by eating, drinking, and walking your way through it. With all that in mind, we’ll take you through what we think is the perfect day in Charleston, S.C.
Begin with a stretch (or not) & caffeine kick at Harken Café
For the more ambitious vacationer, a great way to start the day is with a sweat sesh. A five-minute walk will have you and your friends at the doors of The Works, a soulful sweat studio with class options including yoga and HIIT.
If sleeping in is more your style, we are not here to judge. Stay cozy underneath the covers on our luxury Saatva mattresses while catching those extra zzz’s.
Whether you decided to sweat it out or snuggle down, head down to Harken Café for a caffeine kick and a rich selection of the most delicious pastries and light breakfast items.
Take a stroll along Waterfront Park
Now that you’ve gotten some sustenance, head over to Charleston must-see Waterfront Park. Stroll down the pier and relax on the swings overlooking the water. Keep walking to dip a toe in the pineapple fountain and check out the beautiful architecture of the Battery and Rainbow Row. Take advantage of the scenery and make sure to get in a photo op before walking through White Point Garden.
Eat, drink, and shop merry on King Street
Make your way over to the always-bustling King Street where the next stop is 167 Raw Oyster Bar. Here you’ll be served up the freshest seafood by the hippest bartenders and servers. It’s an experience that feels warm and intimate with every detail thought through-but it will require a wait. They don’t take reservations, but you can add your name to the list, and they’ll call when your table is ready. So, what better way to pass the time than by doing a little shopping? Right down the street, you’ll find a well-curated selection of women’s clothing brands at Beau & Ro. And if you go a bit further, you’ll walk into arguably Charleston’s most cozy store, LAKE, celebrating pajama perfection.
Get refreshed at The Palms
After your boozy lunch, it’s time for a nap. A mid-afternoon break is the perfect way to get refreshed for the evening, whether you plan on getting wild or keeping it low-key. Head back to The Palms and find a cozy spot to curl up under the afternoon sun in the courtyard, the shade of one of The Palm’s porches, or in your boho-chic Palm’s apartment.
Grab a cocktail at The Dewberry’s Citrus Club
Refreshed and revived, it’s time to head back out. A little over a half mile walk or quick pedicab ride away is The Dewberry, a luxury hotel with mid-century vibes. There you can head up to their whimsical rooftop cocktail lounge, Citrus Club. As the highest rooftop in Charleston, you can take in the views while sipping a Bridge Runner.
Indulge in dining & nightlife on Upper King Street
From there, it’s on to dinner. The options in Charleston are endless with some of the best located right outside 182 Saint Philip Street’s door. For a high-end, European feel, reserve a spot at Chez Nous. Want all the seafood one weekend can handle? Drop by The Ordinary. Or for a place that’s sure to accommodate any size party, try relaxed Italian at Indaco.
After that, it’s up to you! You can head back to The Palms for a relaxing night in chatting in the courtyard or keep the party going at any of Charleston’s late-night haunts like Ink Cocktail Lounge, Vintage Lounge, the Cocktail Club, and more. The best part? All the options only steps from your home away from home at The Palms.
Pack even more of Charleston’s best into your day
If that’s simply not enough, here are five iconic ways to experience Charleston.
1. Take a horse-drawn carriage tour
Rest your feet while exploring some of Charleston’s most historic streets. Carriage tours are offered all day with guides sharing stories of the Holy City’s past.
2. Explore the Charleston City Market
The Charleston City Market is a must-see for any visitor where you can shop for souvenirs, soak in local culture, and get to know local artisans. It’s also where you can see Gullah artisans crafting intricate sweetgrass baskets and snag one of these quintessential Charleston treasures to take home with you.
3. Visit a historic landmark
Charleston’s history is as vibrant as it is eye-opening. Take time to explore periods of historical significance by visiting landmarks like the Old Slave Mart Museum, Nathaniel Russell House, or the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon.
4. See Charleston from the water
If you really want to get the full Charleston experience, then you’ve got to get out on the water. Take your pick from sailboat cruises, sightseeing cruises, and sunset dining cruises through Charleston Tours & Events.
5. Take in the Charleston art scene
Whether you head to the Gibbes Museum of Art or explore some of the many local artist’s galleries throughout the city, you can experience all aspects of the city’s vibrant art scene.