A Charleston Mini Guide
Where to eat oysters, build your own charm necklace, and gobble down the best banana bread I've ever had
This past weekend, our dear friends Dawson and Garrett got married in Charleston. They had the most gorgeous wedding of all time, and I danced barefoot for so long and so hard during the afterparty that my feet were black for two days.
Growing up in Savannah, Charleston was always the go-to spot for those quick weekend getaways with my family. It wasn’t too far, just a couple of hours on the road, but to my younger self, it always felt like we were escaping to some grand, glamorous destination.
I remember thinking back then how different it felt from home, even though the two cities share so much Southern charm. Maybe that’s why Charleston has drawn so many people over the years. It has this ability to feel both familiar and wildly new all at once —a city that offers just the right balance of relaxation and excitement.
I have to say, so much has changed since those childhood trips. The energy of the city is more vibrant now than I ever remember, bustling with new shops, galleries, and some true restaurant gems. It’s no surprise that the tourism boom has taken off.
But beyond all the newness, there was something special about experiencing Charleston as an adult. This time, I found myself lingering on the details I had once overlooked as a kid. I marveled at the intricate ironwork on the balconies, the towering live oaks that framed every street, and the way the old buildings whispered stories of centuries past. Walking along The Battery, watching the sun set from Dawson and Garrett’s welcome reception, I felt a new kind of appreciation for the city — one that comes with age and a deeper understanding of the world around me.
Charleston is the perfect place to visit for Friday through Sunday trip. You can cover a lot of ground and board your plane home feeling satisfied and accomplished after 48-72 hours.
For anyone living on the East Coast, it’s a getaway I recommend without hesitation. The travel is blissfully easy if you can snag a direct flight — no long layovers or complicated transfers, just a quick hop over that lands you in the heart of a city brimming with beauty and history. Once you arrive, the city opens itself up to you, effortlessly blending relaxation with adventure.
Where to stay:
The Dewberry - Our friends got married here and it’s definitely the best hotel I’ve stayed at in Charleston. The beds were incredibly comfortable, service was excellent, food was great. No notes.
Zero George - I’ve heard wonderful things about this hotel, located in a collection of 19th century restored buildings. It has a gorgeous courtyard and they are known for their restaurant.
Self promo: Both hotels have tons of F+B credits/opportunities for room upgrades when you book through my travel agency, MindHoliday! :)
Where to eat:
Baba’s on Cannon - We went here three times over the weekend for their coffee and baked goods. Their banana bread is the best I’ve ever had (order it toasted with butter). Lunch is also excellent here, and you can’t really go wrong with anything. Our friends had the pastry chef at Baba’s make their wedding “cake” live during dinner — a gorgeous large format mille-feuille!
Bar167 - We couldn’t get a table at their sister restaurant, 167 Raw, but walked in here for lunch (there were 5 of us) which is nearly impossible on a weekend. The food was superb! Get the focaccia and fish sandwiches.
Leon’s - Known for southern food and oysters! This place was solid and it was nice to sit outside on the patio for lunch.
Welton’s Bakeshop - I didn’t make it to Welton’s this time around, but this place is adorable and has unbelievable pastries.
The Obstinate Daughter - Another one I didn’t make it to this time, but this is a great brunch place if you’re looking to eat some delicious pizza near the beach.
Where to shop:
Hart Jewelry - Go here and customize your own charm necklace or bracelet! Such a fun process.
Hampden Clothing - Great curation of designer pieces.
Wentworth - A cute shop with antique and vintage home goods and one-of-a-kind pieces. I desperately wanted to buy a vintage silver cigarette case here (for joints) but stupidly didn’t.
Candlefish - Our friends that got married did the cutest thing ever and made their own custom candle scent here, and then gave out the candles as wedding favors. Anyone can attend one of their workshops, but they have great pre-made scents too.
Things to do:
Rainbow Row / Architecture walk - A must when in Charleston. Walk around the French Quarter and South of Broad neighborhoods and prepare to fall in love with the mansions!
Sullivan’s Island - If you’re looking to head to the beach, this is the place.
Angel oak tree - I haven’t been here yet, as it’s a 30 minute drive from downtown, but it’s SO high on my list. This massive oak tree is estimated to be 400 years old and it provides shade that covers 17k square feet!
South Carolina Aquarium - This place is nostalgic for me because I went there a LOT as a kid. If you have little ones with you, it’s a great way to kill a few hours.
Walk through the College of Charleston campus — It’s gorgeous and worth the stroll. So many big oak trees/Spanish moss!
Here’s my Charleston map for you to save for future reference.
