Travel Guides > USA > South Carolina > Charleston

Centuries-old mansions, Spanish moss-draped trees, spooky cemeteries, cobblestone walks: in a word, Charleston. As you walk the gas lamp-lit streets at night, past horse-drawn carriages and the antebellum architecture, you just might think you've traveled back in time. But just because

this South Carolina city is proud to celebrate its heritage doesn't mean it's stuck in the past: Charleston boasts innovative restaurants, interesting shops, contemporary art galleries and the world-class Spoleto Festival USA. This is the place to experience the genteel South — after all, it was the home of suave "Gone with the Wind" character, Rhett Butler.

History pervades almost every aspect of the Holy City, from the majestic homes-turned-museums to the landmarks that promote the city's role in United States history. Civil War buffs should head to Fort Sumter, where the first shot of the War between the States was fired. Meanwhile, shopaholics looking for locally made goods should peruse the Charleston City Market. When you're ready for a day at the beach, the city's got you covered there, too. Several beach towns, including Sullivan's Island, Isle of Palm and Folly Beach, offer sun, sand and gentle waves.

How To Save Money in Charleston

• Visit in the winter You might catch a hotel deal by traveling in the off-season, and you'll definitely enjoy fewer tourists. Plus, winter temperatures are hardly inhospitable — they hover between 40 and 60 degrees.
• Stay at a B&B Charleston is full of charming bed-and-breakfasts and many of them are cheaper than the city's brand-backed hotels. And you'll likely enjoy extra perks like complimentary breakfasts and evening happy hours.
• Make lunch reservations Get the most bang for your buck by making lunch reservations — rather than dinner ones — at the most expensive places. Many eateries offer reduced-price midday menus.

Charleston Culture & Customs

Consider dressing up a little if you don't want to stick out as a tourist in Charleston. Residents like to take casual to another level; women wear skirts and dresses while you'll see many men dressed in khakis and polo shirts.
While you're in town, you might also get a glimpse into Gullah culture. The Gullah are Lowcountry African Americans whose ancestors were brought to Charleston in the slave trade. Their tradition has influenced a lot of Charleston cuisine, from the food (red rice, okra soup, gumbo) to the "Bruh Rabbit" folk stories (slave fables starring a devilish rabbit) to the songs ("Michael Row the Boat Ashore"). If you're shopping for souvenirs, keep an eye out for the Gullah's handcrafted sweetgrass baskets.

Charleston Dining

Charleston is a foodie destination in its own right. Even if you're not in town for one of the city's culinary events (like the Charleston Food + Wine Festival or Charleston Restaurant Week), you'll still get a chance to sample some Lowcountry cuisine at any one of the city's top restaurants.

Travelers and locals alike heap praise on Magnolia's for its contemporary Southern menu and attentive service. Favorite dishes include the down south egg roll, the buttermilk fried chicken breast and the parmesan crusted flounder. Poogan's Porch offers a similar Lowcountry menu in a charming, restored Victorian house. High Cotton, another purveyor of Lowcountry fare, hosts a popular Sunday brunch that features live jazz from local musicians. During peak tourist season, waiting for a table at one of these eateries can turn into a long night. If you already know where you'd like to dine while in Charleston, make reservations before you get into town.

You can't make reservations at Hyman's Seafood, so be prepared to battle the line snaking out of the door for a seat at this perennial tourist favorite. With a more casual atmosphere and budget-friendly menu than some of Charleston's other downtown area restaurants, it's easy to see why travelers (especially those with kids in tow) prefer to stake a claim in the line than pay some of the city's other restaurant tabs. You won't encounter too many locals in line, but you will find a big menu with just about any seafood you could imagine.