How to Plan The Perfect Charleston Day Trip

(Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.)

Last Updated on April 30, 2024 by sydabroad

Looking for the perfect Charleston day trip itinerary? Then keep reading! 

Charleston is a charming southern city in South Carolina known for its historic architecture, southern hospitality, culinary scene, historic landmarks, and beaches. Charleston is one of my favorite cities in America. I recently got to spend a few days exploring the city and I’ve curated this guide to help you plan the perfect Charleston day trip.

Although a day in Charleston is not enough time to experience it all, you can cover a lot of the city in just one day. I love how walkable it is – you can hit almost all the iconic spots during your one day in Charleston. I’m sharing the best way to spend one day in Charleston, restaurant and coffee shop recommendations, where to stay in Charleston, and other helpful tips! 

I’ve also included a map with all of the locations mentioned in this itinerary so save this post for your trip! Alright, let’s get into it. 

Looking for more USA guides?

• 26 NYC Attractions for a Rainy Day
• How to Spend a Weekend in Fort Worth, Texas
• How to Spend a Weekend in Sarasota, Florida

This post is all about planning the perfect Charleston day trip. 

The Perfect Charleston Day Trip 

I’m covering how to get around Charleston, a map, and other additional helpful info later in this guide. For now, we’re diving into the best way to spend one day in Charleston, South Carolina.  

Brunch in Charleston

What better way to start your Charleston day trip than at brunch?! There are so many amazing brunch spots in the city. I had brunch at Church and Union and it was incredible! I love how the restaurant is an old church, it’s the most unique spot. 

If you visit Church and Union, you have to grab a mimosa and try the poke bowl. It was delicious. You can also easily walk to your next destination from here. 

Charleston City Market

You can’t miss the Charleston City Market during your day trip. This is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city – a place for locals and tourists alike. The Charleston City Market dates back to the lake 18th century when it was established as a commercial hub for local merchants and tradespeople. 

Today, it’s a thriving market and a symbol of the city’s historic charm. It’s located in the heart of Charleston and you can find all sorts of local crafts, souvenirs, clothing, home decor, and more. It’s a great place to browse – you’ll find the cutest things here. 

Pineapple Fountain | Waterfront Park 

Next on this Charleston day trip itinerary, you’re going to walk over to Waterfront Park and the Pineapple Fountain. This is a lovely area to walk near the water and a great photo spot too! Part of Charleston’s port town history was that a pineapple used to be a symbol of wealth and hospitality. Hence the pineapple fountain!

Plenty of paved walking paths line the waterfront and are perfect for long walks and cycling. It’s a nice area to escape the busy downtown Charleston. 

French Quarter

And now we’re headed to the French Quarter. Not in New Orleans, but in Charleston. This is a small historic neighborhood on the Southeastern corner of the peninsula. This is seriously the cutest place in the city. You’ll get to see the most charming homes and quaint cobblestone streets.

The French Quarter is known for its well-preserved historic buildings and colonial-era architecture. There are historic churches, museums, and plenty of beautiful buildings to admire. This is also a wonderful photo spot in Charleston. 

Rainbow Row 

Okay, yet another great photo spot in Charleston is Rainbow Row. Let’s be honest, there isn’t a place in Charleston that’s not cute and Instagrammable. I’m sure you’ve seen Rainbow Row all over social media. 

Rainbow Row is a line of vibrant colorful houses located on East Bay Street in the historic district of Charleston. It stretches for several blocks and consists of the most beautiful pastel, Georgian-style townhouses dating back to the 18th century. This is hands down one of the cutest places in Charleston! 

Because this is an Instagrammable hot spot in Charleston, there may be a few other people here taking photos. However, if you do have to wait your turn for a photo, it shouldn’t be long. I visited in the afternoon on a weekend and there was no one else here taking photos. 

Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

If you’re looking to explore a bit of Charleston’s history, visit the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon. The Old Exchange Building is a Charleston landmark that was completed in 1771. This was the site of some of the most important events in South Carolina history. 

Over the last two and a half centuries, the building has been a commercial exchange, custom house, post office, city hall, military headquarters, and museum. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the Old Exchange. 

Their tours operate every half hour from 10 AM to 5 PM. Adult ticket prices cost $15. I did the 25-minute guided tour of the Provost Dungeon and it was fascinating to learn about some of South Carolina’s history. You can also self-tour the upstairs portion of the museum. 

Optional:  Tour Boone Hall Plantation 

Depending on the amount of time you have, you can check out Boon Hall Plantation. This is a historic district in Mount Pleasant where you can tour the property. Visitors can take a carriage tour, visit the stables, and the mansion, and explore the property. You can learn a lot more about Charleston’s history at the Boone Hall Plantation. 

Looking for a mid-day coffee break? Check out Second Street Coffee or babas on cannon

The Battery 

The Battery is a quick walk from Rainbow Row and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. This was used as a defensive seawall during the Civil War and now, is where you can enjoy High Battery Park. This is a scenic public park in Charleston and the most southern point on the peninsula. 

Shopping on King Street 

A Charleston day trip isn’t complete without visiting King Street. This is the main street in Charleston that is about 2 miles long and often split up by “Upper King Street” and “Lower King Street” 

King Street is lined with a plethora of bars, restaurants, and boutiques. You’ll find high-end luxury and small business boutiques. I loved popping into boutiques here and there. You will find the cutest things on King Street. I suggest taking your time to enjoy all of this area. 

If you are looking to enjoy some beach time in Charleston, consider spending time relaxing at Folly Beach.

Dinner in Charleston

Next on this Charleston itinerary – dinner! There are plenty of delicious dinner options in Charleston but two of my favorites are 167 Raw and Malagón. If you are looking for seafood, consider 167 Raw. This place was freaking incredible. We had the most amazing oysters and their ahi burger (sounds crazy, I know) was one of the best meals I’ve ever had! 10/10 experience at 167 Raw.

On the other hand, you can visit Malagón for Spanish cuisine. This was just as amazing just totally different compared to 167 Raw. If you are looking for tapas and wine – Malagón is the place!  

Cocktail at The Belmont

End your Charleston day trip with a cocktail at the Belmont. The Belmont is a chic cocktail bar offering the best classic and creative cocktails located on King Street. The vibe in here is perfect – the best place for a nightcap! 

If you are looking for another fun bar in Charleston, check out Henry’s On The Market. It’s got such a lively atmosphere – each floor offers a unique vibe. It’s so much fun. Their outdoor area is nice and you’ll find the best live music. 

Charleston Day Trip Map

Charleston Day Trip FAQs 

Is one day enough in Charleston? 

You’ll need more than a day to see all that Charleston has to offer but a day is a good start! Because the historic center is so walkable, you’ll be able to cover almost all of the iconic sites in just a day. 

How to get to Charleston? 

If you aren’t coming from a nearby state within driving distance, the best option is to fly. You’ll fly into Charleston International Airport (CHS).

What is the best way to get around Charleston SC? 

Once you are in the city center, it’s easily walkable. Otherwise, if you’d like to visit other parts of the city and beaches nearby you’ll need to drive. You can rent a car or take Uber. Another fun way to get around the city center is by biking. 

Where to eat in Charleston? 

Excellent food is abundant in this city! But here are places that I have been to and loved; Church and Union, Malagón, 167 Raw, Second State Coffee, babas on cannon, and Henry’s On The Market. 

Where to stay in Charleston? 

NotSo Hostel | If you are staying a night in Charleston, NotSo Hostel is a wonderful budget option in the city. It’s located in the perfect area –  historic downtown Charleston. The property is within walking distance of many restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. Check rates here. 

Meeting Street Inn | This is more of a mid-range accommodation in Charleston. The hotel is housed in a restored historic building in downtown. It’s in the perfect location and is the cutest, quaint little B&B. Check rates here. 

Mill House Charleston | If you are looking for a bit more luxury and the most aesthetic place, check out Mill House Charleston. It’s a pink, yes pink (!!) charming historic hotel downtown. This is seriously the cutest hotel. Check rates here.

I hope you found this Charleston day trip guide helpful! If you have any questions about planning your trip to Charleston, comment below or DM me on Instagram.

Recommended Tours in Charleston

Like this post? Pin it to save for later!