Are you planning a road trip through the Southern USA and are trying to figure out what to do with just one day in Charleston, SC? Got less than 24 hours to take in the sights of Charleston?
You are in the correct place! Well, no worries, because we have put together the ultimate one-day Charleston itinerary for you.
Discover a city with an unprecedented history and enjoy the charm experience of walking through its French Quarter, visit their historical markets or explore surprising antebellum constructions. Add some good Southern cooking to the mix and you have yourself one hell of a first day in Charleston.
One day enough, you might ask? It’s not. However, it is still better than not visiting Charleston at all. You can come back again and due to so many great things, you are likely going to do it. But for a day, it is the ideal way to experience Charleston’s historic appeal and lively ambiance.
Charleston 1 Day Itinerary: Top Spots for Your South Carolina Vacation
1. Begin the day with breakfast at Toast
And when it’s time to feast on our final day in Charleston, the Toast was featured as one of The New York Times Magazine’s top dining picks for morning gatherings.
In particular, they are highly regarded for their breakfast offerings. Tempt your taste buds with their time-honored breakfast biscuits, stuffed French toast or Lowcountry omelets—these will surely delight! Do not overlook the New Orleans Beignets as they are just a delightful little something to calm your cravings.
2. Take a stroll through Charleston’s French Quarter
After your meal, enjoy a leisurely five minute walk to Charleston’s French Quarter.
Settled by the French Huguenots (who came to this country seeking refuge from persecution), it is named after one of their ardent preachers. Now, the French Quarter is one of Downtown Charleston’s most beloved quarters.
Famous for being a laid back place where you can leisurely walk by many architectural beauties and heavy history landmarks.
Some Historic Sites not to be missed on your visit:
Dock Street Theater: America’s first theater, (and was built in 1736). The building, which was renovated many times and remains in use as a performance space. It is also one of the most photogapped structures in front fothe city.
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church: As reputed to be Charlestonoldest church, the white spire of St.Micheal has turned into an image of town over late years
St. Philip’s Church: At 142 Church Street, this church is a National Historical Landmark. The church is particularly famous for its multiple clock face decorated steeple.
3. The History of Slavery at Old Slave Mart
Even if the trip is only for a day, visiting 6 Chalmers Street and checking out The Old Slave Mart are must-do things on your Charleston itinerary.
One of the first African-American slave museums in America, The Old Slave Mart is located inside a former slave auction gallery that hosted auctions until 1863.
There are impressive posters, artifacts to tell the stories and interview by a former enslaved individual that made the museum an appreciated learning experience. Set yourself at least an hour to work your way through the history here.
The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. but in our opinion, Sunday may not be the best day for it as some of its content can have quite an emotional impact on you. Upon leaving you may feel sorrowfully contemplative. Painful and horrific yes, but necessary to know our past so it will not continue.
4. Visit the Pineapple Fountain
At the top of our list, we have Pineapple Fountain which is one of Myrtle Beach best sights to visit for a day.
This famous Charleston place is set along the waterfront in lovely Waterfront Park.
Pro Tip: The pineapple is a symbol of hospitality in Charleston In addition to art, architecture and jewelry featuring pineapple motifs are common throughout the city.
5. Savor a Flavorful Lowcountry Lunch
My visits to the American South always tempt me into flirting with Lowountry cuisine. I keep coming back for the fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and crab cakes.
I just cannot say no to Southern food, especially not in a city with the caliber of dining that exists in Charleston.
Try these top choices for your midday meal:
SNOB Charleston: Specializing in locally sourced ingredients and creative Southern cuisine, Slightly North of Broad (SNOB) offers delicious dining. In addition to the nice meal, you will enjoy good-looking decor as well as outstanding service and interesting cocktails. Reservations are advised as this place is busy even during the week.
Magnolias: known for polished south food, magnolia’s claim to fame is their crab cake and fricasseed green tomatoes. Reservations are also recommended in advance, and wear business or dressy casual.
Bumpa’s: If you want to save a little bit of money, Bumpa’s is the one for you. Prices are reasonable, and diners can enjoy a laid-back environment to kick back with some named Disco fries (i.e. fancy chips), Scotch eggs if you’re feeling brave and burgers for days within their spacious surrounds.
5. Immerse Yourself in History and Culture
What you do with the rest of your Charleston afternoon is up to interpretation. Visit the Historic Charleston City Market, explore one of Charlestons historic homes or take a tour to Fort Sumter.
Local experts are available to guide you on a 1-hour carriage ride around the historic district of Charleston. This offers quick, interactive way to learn a little more about the city.
6. Charleston City Market
Looking for souvenirs? Check out the Charleston City Market. Plus, it has lots of things to buy and is another opportunity for you to get a taste of the local culture award.
Don’t forget to take home a sweetgrass basket — an iconic Southern souvenir. For over 300 years Gullah artisans have been making these baskets.
7. Explore Charleston’s Historic Homes
My favorite historic homes are in Savannah, though Charleston has some incredible ones too.
The Aiken-Rhett House is one of the most significant national historic register office in America. Visitors on tour experience marvelous design and insights into pre-war history. The slave quarters at the Aiken-Rhett, being one of the best preserved in Charleston and only slightly altered from its 1850’s appearance is sombering.
The Nathaniel Russell House is another site worth the visit. With a bold cantilevered staircase and incredible plaster details, this home is a true GEM for history buffs.
8. Visit Fort Sumter
The ferry leaves from downtown Charleston at Liberty Square or Patriot’s Point in Mt. Pleasant. These ferry terminals will take additional time on your day in Charleston, so keep this fact with you when planning.
Step into the history of Fort Sumter, where America’s Civil War began. Explore the remains of the old fort and shop at the gift store located on lower level.
This is a good suggestion because you would not want to waste time going out in hopes of starting and hearing they are sold-out when arriving.
The first lesson we learned the hard way when it come to ticketing is advance booking, or a lack there of meant that even though you get downtown in time the boat might be full. So yes mounting pleasant instead. That was not optimal for our schedule.
9. Capture Stunning Shots at Rainbow Row
Is your social feed boring? — here is a solution for you!! Head over to Rainbow Row.
The 13 quaint pastel-colored historic houses in this collection make for a picture-perfect backdrop. This is why Rainbow Row has been a favorite place to take pictures here in the city.
10. Enjoy a Relaxing Stroll Along the Waterfront
The sun is also still up, which makes it a good time to take a casual stroll at the Charleston waterfront.
There are plenty of green spaces to sit and watch the world go by ( or walk your dog) so you can absorb more than just history here. You may want to head back for a quick dip in the Pineapple Fountain.
If a snack is what you are after, Belgian Gelato awaits with gelatos and pancakes. Take a walk down to The Battery for some views of antebellum houses and the sun setting on the horizon.
11. Wrap Up Your Day with a Charming Carriage Ride
Wrap up a day in Charleston with an enchanting sunset cruise on the waterways of the city known as Sunset Cruises Charleston, South Carolina.
If a night of intrigue is more your style, why not attend one or two effigy wa-looking evening ghost tours. It was a little creepy to me, but some of my friends absolutely loved it.
When hunger strikes after you complete your day of exploring, indulge in dinner at Husk or 82 Queen. 82 Queen, A charming atmosphere and one of my favorites. This is especially good in their she-crab soup.
Essential Tips for a One-Day Visit to Charleston
Optimal Times to Explore Charleston
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are the best times of year for a vacation to Charleston, South Carolina. In these seasons, the temperatures are moderate and humidity levels go down.
But it is hurricane season September through November in Charleston so you have been warned. Not every storm brushes the area but it is always better to check out all weather reports before planning a trip in these months.
Spring brings events like the Festival of Houses & Gardens and Charleston Wine & Foodestival. In the fall, Charleston plays host to a range of other events including the MOJA Arts Festival and Charleston Restaurant Week.
Best Places to Stay in Charleston, SC
The Historic District is the place to be for a short visit. It is quite expensive, but gives most convenience. Best bets: Here are the picks of some heavy hitters
Hampton Inn: Charleston Historic District: Located in the center of all the action, enjoy comfy beds and a free breakfast as well as having great access to anywhere you want to go while also enjoying their lovely pool.
Francis Marion Hotel: Located a mile away from the French Quarter and the Charleston Museum, this historic establishment features inviting rooms and excellent service.
How to Reach Charleston, SC
Charleston can be reached by flight, train or car. Check which airlines fly into Charleston International Airport for your air travel requirements. Train enthusiasts: check out the Silver Service/Palmetto routes run by Amtrak. The main routes for those driving are I-26 and US 17.
Verdict
The good part about this Charleston one-day itinerary is that you can walk to most of the places. The only reason you would need a car is if visiting Fort Sumter and therefore had to drive there or walk, but the heat makes walking unbearable.
Or ride the free downtown shuttle service in Charleston, DASH for quick access to everything you need from City Market and Waterfront Park.
