How to Build the Best Day Trip to Charleston Itinerary

Between Charleston’s rich history, exciting nightlife, and vibrant culinary scene, finding a great way to spend your time here is never an issue. However, if you only have one day to experience the best of The Holy City, packing everything into a single trip can be quite a challenge. Luckily, we’ve done the work for you and have found everything you need to build the perfect Day Trip to Charleston Itinerary. Before you even step foot on Market Street, make sure to request access to our complimentary Destination Guide. Our expertly crafted guide has even more of Charleston’s best restaurants, historic attractions, and exciting events, making it the only way to ensure that you don’t miss out on anything that this amazing city has to offer!

The Best Day Trip to Charleston Itinerary

Dining

Charleston’s culinary scene is diverse and constantly evolving. Fresh, modern restaurants sit right next to Lowcountry staples, giving you plenty of options when it comes to finding a great place to eat at a moments notice. Start your day at Millers All Day, a fantastic brunch spot right on King Street. As the name suggests, Millers is actually open all day long, so if you want a stack of warm, syrupy pancakes at 4 p.m., you know where to look.

For a fun lunch or dinner spot with great drinks and food, you can’t leave out Leon’s. Leon’s cocktail menu is one of the best in Charleston and you won’t find better fried oysters or a better fried-chicken sandwich anywhere else! If you’re looking for a dining experience with a little more gusto, Husk and FIG are both excellent options for those with a sophisticated palette.

Shopping

With so many luxury storefronts, charming boutiques, art galleries, and artisan shops in Charleston, it would be easy to spend an entire weekend here just shopping. However, if you’re only here for the day, there are a few ways to see the bulk of Charleston’s shopping scene in only a couple of hours. Most of your designer shops and big names can be found on King Street. Make your way through the heart of Charleston, shop some of your go-to brands, and even discover some new favorites! Alternatively, The Charleston City Market offers an incredible way to immerse yourself in Charleston’s rich culture and interact with artisan vendors in a historic setting.

Sightseeing

You can’t visit Charleston without getting a taste of the history and culture that helped sculpt the city into what it is today. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to learn about Charleston’s storied past in just a couple of hours. If you’re visiting for the first time, Charleston Footprints offers a great way to see the city while hearing the stories that hide behind the colorful houses and historic churches from an expert guide. Some specific landmarks that you might be interested in seeing are Fort Sumter, The Battery, Angel Oak Tree, and The Waterfront Park.

Nightlife

After the sun sets, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the excitement of Charleston, SC. Stop by The Watch’s rooftop bar and grab a drink while enjoying one of the most impressive views in the entire city. For something with a little more character, some of Charleston’s classic venues and places to see live music include The Pour House, The Royal American, and Prohibition. Whether you’re looking for an elegant place to grab a craft cocktail or you’re looking for a fresh dance floor where you can show your moves, Charleston has it all!

Where to Stay Near Charleston, SC

Our King Studio Suite, for example, is a beautifully decorated and extremely functional guest room that features a king-size bed, kitchen, dining area, and waterfront views. Wake up every morning to complimentary breakfast and end the day with a dip in our saltwater pool or a drink at The Porch Bar. Your dream vacation is just one click away!