Charleston is just as charming as I’ve always imagined it would be. A family wedding in North Carolina created an easy excuse for a roadtrip to to South Carolina to explore this bucket list destination.

Charleston is resplendent with pastel clapboard houses, opulent mansions, vibrant multi-hued flowerboxes, cobblestone streets, horse drawn carriages and endless city views with stately bridges rising above the water way.

The dining options are distinctly southern with a fresh twist. Influences of French, Gullah, Cajun flavors, among others, create a unique food scene. Charm oozes from the historic district mansions as you explore the cobblestone streets in a horse drawn carriage….Clip clop….Clip clop…Or whizing through the streets in a rickshaw. We did both!

Chic boutiques, luxurious hotels, sunny cafes and view-worthy roof top terraces round out the scene in Charleston. The gated porches make you want to settle in with a frosty mint julep on a warm afternoon and a great read.

Our carriage ride with Charleston’s favorite, Charlie.

Our stay at Zero George was everything we hoped it would be. This cluster of 5 historic homes has been transformed to a luxury boutique hotel that retains the true southern charm of the area. We were welcomed with chilled wine and a delicious charcuterie platter.

Where to Stay: Zero George (Contact us to book)

Where to Dine: Zero Restaurant + Bar (reservations in advance required), Halls Chophouse, Swig & Swine (local, unpretentious and fun)

Rooftop Lounge + Dining: Market Pavilion Bar (fabulous views and rooftop pool!), Eleve cool decor and hip, artsy vibe, and The Watch-Rooftop Kitchen

Historic Horse-drawn Carriage Ride - Book here