A Girls Weekend Guide to Charleston

Earlier this month, my sister-in-law, Megan and I surprised my Mom with a trip to Charleston for her birthday. Megan and I had been to Charleston before, but this was Mom’s first trip. We knew she would love this beautiful city and couldn’t wait to show her some of our favorite spots. 

Many of you messaged me during our trip asking about restaurant recommendations and general questions about your stay. I made sure to include those details below and also have a Charleston Travel Guide from a couple of years ago. Hopefully this brings you inspiration as you plan your next trip to Charleston!

xx Ashley

WHERE TO STAY

We loved staying at The Belmond Charleston Place. It was located about 30 minutes from the airport and nestled right in the heart of downtown Charleston. It was the perfect distance to all of our favorite downtown spots. We were actually close enough to walk to many of the restaurants and shops we visited.

If you happen to be in Charleston during the Christmas season, be sure to stop by Belmond Charleston Place. The lobby is decorated with beautiful Christmas trees and a festive train set. They also have a little jazz club right off the lobby that is open at night (reservations encouraged). It’s the perfect spot for a glass of wine or decaf latte after dinner. 

PLACES TO EAT

BREAKFAST: 

Butcher & Bee (sit down spot with full menu. We loved eating here!)

Black Tap Coffee (quick grab & go, but also has spots to sit down. They offer freshly baked quiche or pastries)

The Rise (trendy spot for a quick coffee or pastry. Not a whole lot of space to sit down) 

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit (so yummy! This is another grab & go spot. Only a few bar stools to sit down)

Poogan’s Porch (brunch is offered 7 days a week! I highly recommend making reservations)

DINNER: 

The Ordinary (the Fried Oyster Sliders were amazing. I’m not a huge fan of oysters, but these were fantastic!)

Husk (very popular, highly recommend making reservations in advance)

The Darling Oyster Bar (we stopped here for HH. I recommend the Paloma…very fresh and not too sweet)

DESSERT:

Jeni’s Ice Cream (my favorite ice cream)

Sugar Bakeshop (they have a little bit of everything here, even freshly baked dog treats!)

THINGS TO DO

Magnolia Plantation (The most popular plantation and gardens in Charleston. The Magnolia Plantation is about 20 minutes outside of Downtown Charleston, and takes about 2-3 hours to get the full experience. We did the train ride and the tour of the house. On the train ride, you tour the whole property and see the alligators sunbathing in the water. It was fun!) 

Haunted Jail Tour (Disclaimer: this is not for the faint of heart. We had a great time on this 45 minute tour, but I was pretty scared. Terrified actually!  Not sure I would do it again, but I am glad I did it once. You learn all about the history of the jail and the people who were inside.) 

Shopping on King Street (Charleston has great shopping. Whether you stick with the bigger stores like Madewell or keep it local, they have a ton of options.)

More ideas for a trip to Charleston here!

OUTFIT DETAILS:

Outfit 1: Cuyana Classic Alpaca Cape (similar style under $75) | Twenty The Perfect Tee Turtleneck | Mott & Bow High Rise Skinny Jeans | Stuart Weitzman Elevated Over The Knee Boots (Similar less expensive options here (40% off!) and here.) | Halogen Double Ring Leather Belt | Gucci Padlock Bag (Similar budget friendly  options here and here.) | Love Necklace | Shashi Signet Ring | MICHELE Sidney Diamond Watch (Similar budget friendly options here and here.) | Gucci Sunglasses (Similar budget friendly options here and here.) | Gold Thumb Ring

Outfit 2: KENDALL + KYLIE Fallyn Pointed Toe Booties Obsessed with these boots! (More sizes here and here., leather version here) | AG Jeans (33% off!) 

Megan: You can shop her outfit here

Mom’s Outfit: Halogen Drape Jacket (Similar options here and here) | J.Crew Tissue Turtleneck Tee