24 Hours in Charleston

Recently I went on a whirlwind road trip through the Southeastern United States and I've collected the best of the best for some cities that you just can't miss! Without further ado, welcome to Charleston... 

Picture Credit: Trip Advisor

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

The bridge was unveiled in 2005 and named after retired U.S. Congressman, Arthur Ravenel, Jr. It links downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant. Although you can drive and bike across the bridge, walking over it provides the most stunning views of the city. It is a 2.5 mile walk in each direction and overlooks Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River. The best time to walk the bridge is actually at sunrise to witness the brilliant colors of the sky and a clear view of the city.

Picture Credit: Viator

Magnolia Plantation

Esepcially if you'll be visiting Charleston between May and August, you can beat the heat by heading to Magnolia Plantation in the morning. This is one of the oldest public tourist sites (founded in 1676) and has been consistently voted one of the most beautiful gardens in South Carolina. March and April are the best times of year to visit because that is when most of the flowers are in full bloom. You could spend all day here if you wanted to. Read more about admission here.

Rainbow Row

Rainbow Row is one of the most quintessentially Charleston spots. There are many theories as to why these 13 Georgian-style homes along the waterfront ended up painted in such vibrant colors. My favorite theory is that each home was painted a different color so that drunk sailors could find their way back home. Make your way over to East Bay Street in the morning or early afternoon as this area can get quite crowded with people taking pictures. 

Charleston City Market

Established in historic downtown in 1841, this is one of the nation's oldest public markets.  This is a great place to escape the summer heat with over 300 vendors to explore. You can buy everything from sweets to jewelry to art every day of the year at the here. From April to December you can check out the outdoor night market on Friday and Saturday nights. Read more about the different vendors here. 

Photo Credit: Flickr

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park as we know it opened in the spring of 1990, after a devastating hurricane hit the region. It encompasses eight acres which looks onto the Cooper River. The park offers excellent views of Charleston Harbor, gardens and the famous pineapple fountain. Pineapple motifs are very common in Charleston (and in the Southeast as well) as they represent a warm welcome and hospitality. 

You didn't think that I'd leave you without any food recommendations, did you? Never. Look out for my upcoming post about all the things that you've got to eat in Charleston!

Safe travels,

V.