Charleston is brimming with history and culture, and makes a perfect weekend getaway. With beautiful architecture, southern charm and excellent restaurant and bar options, you can easily experience the city in a few days, but we can guarantee you won’t want to leave! Here’s our guide to the ultimate girls’ weekend in Charleston, South Carolina.
A little bit of Charleston’s history
With roots deeply embedded in some of America’s most pivotal historic events, Charleston embraces progress while holding tightly to its past, with all its beauty, pain, and complexity.
Charleston was founded in 1670, it grew from a small colonial port into one of the South’s most important cities, playing roles in the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights movement. It was also one of the largest entry points for enslaved Africans in North America, a history that shaped the city’s culture and economy and is remembered today through museums, memorials, and historic sites.
Much of Charleston’s historic character is still visible today in its 18th- and 19th-century homes, cobblestone streets, and preserved public buildings. The city’s approach to preservation is practical as well as proud: historic structures are restored and put to use, so the past remains part of everyday life.
Getting to Charleston
Charleston is surprisingly accessible. With nonstop flights from major cities and quick connections via I-26 and I-95, it’s a getaway that accommodates your girlfriends coming from different parts of the country either ease.
If you are coming via Highway 17 from I-95, there are two must-stops along the way: Carolina Cider Company on Highway 17 (we love their cold brew) and Old Sheldon Church on Old Sheldon Church Road (approximately two miles down on the right). Both spots are picture-perfect!
Where to Stay in Charleston
Charleston offers no shortage of charming hotels, historic inns, and cozy bed-and-breakfasts. You want to be downtown if you can, or between downtown and White Point Garden, in the area of historic homes around Rainbow Row.
For a girls’ weekend or bachelorette trip, here are top picks:
- Emeline – 181 Church Street
- Moxy Charleston Downtown – 547 Meeting Street
- The Ryder Hotel – 237 Meeting Street
Things to do in Charleston
Best Brunch Spots in Charleston
Part of Charleston’s southern charm is its brunch scene – you have amazing, stylish and delicious options all over the city. Some of our favorites include:
- Church and Union – the food is great—the setting is all things Charleston, and the shrimp and grits hit just right.
- Park and Grove – near Hampton Park and The Citadel. We love the menu updates that change with the season – it’s never a letdown. Even though we swear we won’t, we often find ourselves sharing the house-made cinnamon roll!
- Iron Rose at The Mill House – the menu is packed with delightful options, and The Mill House is simply beautiful. Iron Rose is one of our most frequented spots. We love brunch in the courtyard, the live music, the Bloody Mary bar, and because there are so many great menu options like tres leches french toast, wild mushroom frittata, smoked salmon plate, and pimento cheese, we tend to share plates.
- Little Line Kitchen & Provisions – A coveted spot among Charlestonians and a personal favorite. We are all big fans of the rosemary & pecan chicken salad sandwich, which pairs perfectly with a carafe of mimosas.
Daytime Activities for a Girls’ Trip to Charleston
Spend your days shopping along King Street and browsing the Charleston City Market. Visit the cute areas like Rainbow Row, The Battery, and the U.S. Customs House, then slip around the corner to Fleet Landing for a seafood lunch with harbor views.
A carriage ride with Palmetto Carriage Works offers a delightful mix of history and storytelling. In the evening, book a ghost tour to see the city in an entirely different light.
And don’t miss a slow stroll through some of Charleston’s loveliest streets: Church Street, Stoll’s Alley, Philadelphia Alley, Chalmers Street, Legare Street, and Broad. Charleston is a very instagrammable city!
Pamper Yourself
For a pampering session locals, brides, and brides-to-be swear by, plan a stop in Avondale. At Me Time Botanicals, ask for Jenna, and after your spa service, stock up on their cult-favorites, Buff and Melt.
Then visit Strawberry Blonde Salon, where sisters Kinsley and Kiley work their magic—guaranteeing you’ll leave feeling beautiful and confident.
And don’t miss a spot of shopping – after all, you’re worth it!
The Best Place to Stop for a Refreshment
Here are some of our favorite watering holes:
- Carve out time for Felix Cocktails et Cuisine—whether for the beautiful setting, the craft cocktails, or the unforgettable lobster deviled eggs.
- Island Cabana Bar and Ship Store – perfect after walking the Ravenel Bridge or for the spicy margarita
- Little Palm – a premier spot for a bachelorette or girls’ gathering or before dinner at FIG
- The Citrus Club at The Dewberry – tropical cocktails (we love Chaçing the Dragon & Tropical itch with the crab salad) and the Charleston skyline
- Fiat Lux at Hotel Bennett – uniquely crafted cocktails (the Tangerine Sky is exquisite) and a stunning rooftop vantage point
- Prohibition – it’s southern sophistication that makes you feel as though you stepped back in time. Voted best bar and cocktails for a reason! Be sure to try the Jackalope and Carolina Wren.
Many downtown hotels have rooftop bars, secret gardens, and cozy lounges—worth exploring even if you’re not staying there.
Best Beaches and Chill-Out Things to do in Charleston
Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island are perfect for a day in the sun, but for a truly unforgettable experience, book a trip with Coastal Expeditions to the Kiawah River or Morris Island Lighthouse. For the most authentic outing, take a half-day tour with Captain Al—he’s a legend that locals swear by.
If you’re a movie buff, head to Cypress Gardens, where one of the most iconic scenes from The Notebook was filmed. Arrive early for a self-guided boat tour; the boats are first come, first served. Cypress and Magnolia Gardens are especially beautiful early in the morning, and capturing that beauty in photographs is so worth the trip!
We enjoy an early morning walk or jog along the Battery too, admiring the beautiful houses and calm vibe before the city comes alive.
Nightlife Options in Charleston
Charleston sure is a fun place for a night out on the town!
For a more intimate vibe, visit The Tippling House wine bar or take a dinner cruise. If you’re in the mood for dancing and energy, try Uptown Social, Ritual Nightclub, or a Charleston Party Cat boat charter.
Whatever you do with your nights, be sure to visit Burns Alley, where you will find some really great bars but also the perfect spot to explore Charleston’s nightlife.
Our Picks for Bachelorette and Girls’ Trip Tour Ideas
The Harbor Bar Pedal Boat Party Cruise is a hit with bachelorettes and girls’ groups alike, as it offers a fun and unique harbor experience.
The ghost tours not only provide their own unique tales of Charleston’s remarkable history but are also incredibly fun and engaging.
Both Bulldog and Nightly Spirits are amazing tours. In fact, all of Bulldog’s tours are exceptional. Whatever you choose, we find the walking tours to be the best and most interesting.
Coastal Expeditions also offers kayak and paddleboarding trips.
Where to Eat in Charleston
Narrowing down the best eateries is not easy when you are in one of the world’s culinary capitals. Among this list are other spots you want to weave into a weekend visit.
- Republic Garden & Lounge – you just might run into the cast of Southern Charm
- Zachary’s Daiquiris – perfect to cool down, but really, this place is a vibe
- The Ordinary – inventive dishes and great cocktails
- Halls Chophouse – Charleston’s oldest and most iconic steakhouse (the creamed corn is heavenly)
- Millers All Day – vintage charm with fabulous food
- Burwells Stonefire & Grill – amazing ambiance, caviar, and steaks
- The Commodore – southern swank in a local hangout – we have discovered some great musical talent here
- By The Way – cozy, laid-back atmosphere – we recommend the Wild Mushroom Ravioli
- The Darling Oyster Bar – gourmet food absent the stuffiness
- Basic Kitchen – a coveted lunch spot
- Hank’s Seafood – We’ve never had a dish we didn’t like, but the ceviche is to die for
- Fuel – the mahi tacos & roasted corn chowder are a must
- Camellias at Hotel Bennett – desserts & afternoon tea with a stunning backdrop
- Callies Hot Little Biscuits – Charleston’s most famous biscuits.
- La Pâtisserie – fine coffee & pastries – I love the double espresso
- Saffron Restaurant & Bakery – fresh foods and oh so flavorful
- Sugar Bakeshop – the most adorable (photo op) bakeshop
- Burbages Grocery – a beloved local neighborhood gem that has all kinds of goodies, hard-to-find wines, and the most beautiful fresh, local flowers
- The Little Market – authentically artisan
- The American Theatre – an old art deco treasure
- Dock Street Theatre – America’s first theatre
This list, while not exhaustive, is inclusive of some of Charleston’s most beautiful backdrops and captivating dining settings.
Before You Go
While not every establishment requires reservations, it’s always smart to check ahead, especially for group outings.
Tours with Captain Al, spa appointments at Me Time Botanicals, and hair/makeup sessions at Strawberry Blonde (especially with Kinsley or Kiley) often book out weeks, or in some cases, months in advance, so be sure to book ahead!
Part of Charleston’s magic is that no matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to discover. The people are warm, energetic, and effortlessly welcoming. With this guide, you’re sure to experience many layers of the city’s charm.
Contributed by our travel advisor, April Kemp: April@endlessfamilytravels.com
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