A Weekend Itinerary in Charleston (Sans Children)

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Are you planning a weekend getaway with your spouse or significant other? You’ve come to the right place!

As parents of a one and three-year-old, my husband and I are always looking for new places to try when we have a babysitter. Living downtown, we love dining out, enjoying craft cocktails, and exploring this beautiful city on foot. So whether you are visiting for the first time or this is simply a staycation, I hope this itinerary will help you plan the best weekend possible.

A Weekend in Charleston Itinerary (Sans Children)

Thursday – Get Settled

If you’ve landed in Charleston before check-in, have no fear, there is plenty to do.

EXPLORE: Check out one of the beautiful gardens or historic plantations. Here are a few options to consider: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, Cypress Gardens, Boone Hall, or Middleton Place.

CHECK-IN: Check into your hotel or Airbnb. If you’re not sure where to stay, my husband and I operate several short-term rentals, and we would love to host you!

PREPARE: Once you’re ready for the evening, walk over to Chubby Fish. They do not take reservations, so put your name in and get an ETA for dinner.

DRINK: Enjoy drinks and apps at Chasing Sage.

EAT: Chubby Fish – While everything is pure perfection, I dream of the smoked mackerel curry. I suggest sharing a few dishes as a table rather than ordering separately. 

Friday – Downtown Sightseeing

Put on your walking shoes – it’s time to get acquainted with the city!

EAT: If you’re located in the short-term rental district, there are a few fabulous coffee and breakfast spots right around the corner. 132 Spring Cafe, DAPS, Little Line, and Babas on Cannon are a few of my favorites.

EXPLORE: Explore historic Charleston — The Battery, White Point Garden, Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row, etc. Consider a guided walking tour or a carriage ride at some point throughout the day.

PREPARE: Put your name in for lunch at 167 Raw.

DRINK: Have a glass of wine at Bin 152 while you wait for lunch.

EAT: 167 Raw – Start with a lobster roll or a tuna burger and finish with key lime pie.

EXPLORE: Visit the heartbeat of the city by shopping on lively King Street.

DRINK: Once you’ve gotten ready for the evening, head to The Dewberry. There are multiple lounges to enjoy within the hotel. The Citrus Club is their rooftop with James Beard award-winning cocktails.

EAT: The Ordinary – Get a reservation weeks in advance and devour a giant seafood tour.

Saturday – Mount Pleasant and Sullivan’s Island

Its time for some R and R at the beach.

EAT: The Post House Inn – Enjoy a slow breakfast before a relaxing morning at the beach. Be sure to drive around Old Village and Sullivan’s Island to look at the quintessential Southern homes. They’re so dreamy!

RELAX: Sullivan’s Island – Soak up the sun at the beach.

EAT:: Obstinate Daughter or The Longboard – Located just off the beach, either of these lunch spots will be delicious.

EXPLORE: If you want to take a stroll before getting ready for dinner, check out Hampton Park and surround yourself with beautiful landscaping, lush gardens, and duck-filled ponds.

DRINK: Estadio – ​​Even if you don’t usually like Gin and Tonics, you will LOVE theirs. Enjoy a few Spanish tapas before dinner.

EAT: Chez Nous – This restaurant is extremely quaint and romantic. *Book in advance!* The menu is announced daily on Instagram: Two apps, two entrees, and two desserts. If you’re okay with splurging, I recommend getting one of everything and sharing!

**Alternative Dinner Option**

Feeling adventurous one night? The Kingstide is located on Daniel Island, and taking a ferry from downtown is so much fun. Use this schedule to help plan your trip. You’ll depart from Waterfront Park, cruise on over to dinner, and take the ferry back downtown when you’re done. Seeing the city by boat is an extra fun way to end a fun day in Charleston, and the food at Kingstide is divine.

Sunday – Gospel Brunch 

Say goodbye to the Holy City in style.

DRINK: Enjoy a coffee at Harken Cafe.

EAT: Gospel Brunch at Halls Chophouse.

There is so much else to see and do, and this only gives you a small snapshot of what a weekend in Charleston could look like. Whether visiting for business, pleasure or simply enjoying a staycation, I sure hope you’ll be back! Charleston is a city like no other.

Visiting Charleston with children? Check out my ideas here.

Visiting Charleston with girleston, lfriends? Check out my ideas here.