Need a quick getaway? Take a day trip to Charleston, South Carolina, and enjoy the southern hospitality this charming city has to offer.
We've narrowed down all the best restaurants, shopping, and stays in Charleston –here's what made the top of the list.
Read on for the complete day trip guide to Charleston, South Carolina.
Who better to round up the perfect one-day guide to Charleston than the team at Kitty VALE? Our small business is based out of Charleston, South Carolina and we wouldn't want to call anywhere else but the low country home.
After surveying our team for the best of the best Charleston has to offer, here's what made the cut.
Checking In: The Dewberry Hotel
Of course, Charleston has dozens of beautiful places to stay, but none truly tops the charm of The Dewberry hotel on Meeting Street. Once an old federal building now hosts a modern, boutique hotel complete with a luxury spa, a rooftop bar with the best views in the city, and even a Volvo experience complete with complimentary chauffeurs.
Bonus points for Ritz Carlton level service from the lovely staff.
Care for a coffee? Meet us at The Harbinger
After dropping your bags at The Dewberry, it's time to head over to a quaint little coffee shop located on King Street. The Harbinger Cafe & Bakery is known for its zen vibes and mouth-watering pastries. The best spot for a pick-me-up before strolling King Street for the best shopping Charleston has to offer.
Everything is made in-house, from the finest ingredients. There are plenty of options for all dietary restrictions, including vegan pastries!
After ordering, head to the back patio for a quiet escape into a beautiful garden.
Spend Hours Shopping on King Street
By now you've probably heard of King Street, famous for dozens of unique stores and some familiar brands. You can start anywhere on King Street and wander for hours. From local gift shops to art galleries and luxury retail, there's something for everyone.
Here are our must-hit spots.
Women's Clothing
Hampden Clothing - https://hampdenclothing.com/
V2V - https://shopv2v.com/
Copper Penny - https://www.shopcopperpenny.com/
Something About Me - https://www.somethingaboutme.com/
Shoes & Accessories
Home
Art
Men's Clothing
Luxury Retail
Brunch at Millers All Day
Millers All Day is the perfect place for brunch in Charleston. With delicious food, savory bites, and incredible cocktails, you're sure to find something for everyone here. The retro design and bright interiors make the perfect backdrop for a cute Instagram pic.
Pro tip: the King Street location doesn't take reservations, but you can put your name down on the list before strolling downtown while you wait for the text that your table is ready.
Take in the view at The Citrus Club
Before heading back to your hotel room, head upstairs to The Citrus Club at The Dewberry Hotel. With 360* views of downtown and the water, this is the best spot to sit back and enjoy a late afternoon cocktail. Take in the sunset's golden hour and snap some cute pics during happy hour.
Insider Tip: Hotel guests get priority seating and always go to the top of the waitlist.
Meet me at Melfi's
If there is one restaurant you just can not miss while in Charleston, it's Melfi's. Fresh pasta is made daily, premium selections of meat and fish, and mouth-watering cocktails. Don't wait to reserve a table, they book up fast! With limited walk-in availability, it's one of the hardest restaurants to get a reservation for in Charleston.
The perfect meal does exist here. Our favorite dishes include arancini, ravioli, and tiramisu. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Plus, it's the best service you'll receive in all of Charleston - talk about southern hospitality.
A nightcap at The Honey Hive
One of our favorite late-night spots for drinks in Charleston. Sitting on lively King Street, pop into The Honey hive for an intimate date night. The beautiful, feminine decor makes for the perfect backdrop to any date or girl's night out. Luckily, they do take reservations.
Still hungry? The menu offers a variety of bites to accompany its extensive crafted drink menu.
And that complete's our list of the perfect day in Charleston, South Carolina.
Even if you can't make it to all these incredible spots, rest assured you'll enjoy your time in the Holy City.
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