*Thank you to Traci Magnus for this guest post on ways to spend a summer weekend here in Charleston!
Spring and summer are a very busy time for all of us. Mother’s Day, graduations, and Father’s Day can often mean a steady stream of family and friends visiting from out of town. Fortunately, there is no better place to visit than Charleston. Charleston has an endless number of ways to spoil your visitors this year. Here, we’ll give you the inside scoop on how to make the most of your weekends in the Holy City.
Brunch
Charleston has become a foodie’s paradise. Brunch is practically a sport in the Holy City, with many of our restaurants competing to serve up the most craveable bites and refreshing cocktails possible.
With so many amazing places to grab brunch, deciding where to get reservations on popular weekends such as Mother’s Day or Father’s Day can be difficult. But don’t worry, we have a few brunch recommendations for whatever occasion you are celebrating.
Magnolias — Downtown Charleston
Treat your tastebuds to upscale Southern cuisine by having brunch at Magnolias. Located in the French Quarter in downtown Charleston, Magnolias’ award-winning cuisine attracts people from across the country for a taste of house-made pimento cheese and Lowcountry favorites. Reserve a table far in advance to avoid a wait!
Edmund’s Oast — Downtown Charleston
Buttermilk fried chicken, sausage and egg cheese muffins, crispy fried potatoes and bacon… do we have your attention yet? Order a savory or sweet brunch from Edmund’s Oast and enjoy it on their covered patio.
Lost Dog Café — Folly Beach
A long-time Folly favorite, Lost Dog Café is a laid-back beach café that serves enormous breakfast burritos, scrumptious cinnamon rolls, and decadent French toast. Dine outside on the patio or sit inside the cozy café. Best of all, dogs are welcomed on the patio, so you can dine with your favorite canine companion as well. Lost Dog doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared for it to be busy!
The Obstinate Daughter — Sullivan’s Island
Sullivan’s Island is a great place to spend the weekend with family. If you are staying at a beautiful beach rental, head to The Obstinate Daughter for an amazing brunch complete with croissants, sorghum waffles, wood-fired pizzas and Bloody Marys.
Sip and Strolls
For something a bit low key, consider sipping a cup of tea or glass of wine as you stroll through lush gardens.
Every Wednesday until May 30, Middleton Place Foundation is offering Garden Strolls and Wine Tasting, where guests can sample old and new world wines while exploring a different Middleton Place Garden location each week.
If you have never been to the Charleston Tea Plantation, this is a great opportunity to visit the only tea garden in the United States. Take a trolley tour of the plantation and don’t forget to take some tea home with you.
Shopping
Charleston’s historic King Street is renowned for it’s amazing shopping and dining opportunities. Spend the day exploring the many shops and one-of-a-kind boutiques located in Charleston’s Fashion District.
Every second Sunday of the month on King Street, the roads are closed to all vehicular traffic, allowing visitors and locals to stroll and socialize freely. You can sample new foods, see new product launches, and take advantage of special sales!
Beach Getaways
Spring and summer can be an expensive time to travel, and it is also a peak time for tourism here in Charleston.
Rather than book an over-priced hotel, consider making your weekend trip extra special by getting a beach vacation rental instead. Choose from private beach homes, island condominiums and pet-friendly properties — all a short drive from downtown Charleston and close to beach activities.
From Folly Beach to Isle of Palms, Charleston’s beaches are a relaxing place to unwind. Spend the day walking along the shore, searching for seashells, and watching the sunrise or sunset. It is a great way to spend a relaxing weekend with family!
Final Thoughts
With its world-class art, thriving food scene, and endless shopping opportunities, Charleston makes it easy to celebrate a special occasion and spend time with family. No matter what you decide to do in the Holy City, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable weekend!
About the Author
Traci Magnus was raised on the Charleston Coast and attended the College of Charleston before heading to the Big Apple. She returned to Charleston in 2006, along with her husband Glenn and their son Max. She joined the Dunes Properties team in early 2008 as Director of Marketing. Read more of Traci’s articles here!
