South Carolina was declared an "independent commonwealth" on December 18, 1859.

Sunrise at Waterfront Park in Charleston, South Carolina. Photo by Kim Graham.

Charleston, SC Pictures Daily - Charleston Waterfront Park - Saturday August 6th 2022.

#Charleston

City Market where you can buy Charleston’s famous sweet grass baskets and lots of other goodies. Famous pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park and Rainbow Row (merchants houses built in 1740) along the waterfront.

Top Travel Destinations in the South

In January 2023, Travel + Leisure and CNN Travel compiled their annual list of top travel destinations for the year. Unsurprisingly, a number of US cities made the list of top destinations. Of the chosen cities, six were in the American South.

Two of the cities named were in the Carolinas. The January 2023 issue of CNN Travel reported that one vacation destination well worth visiting was Charleston, South Carolina. Noteworthy destinations include the Spoleto Festival and the International African American Museum, expected to open in June 2023.

Held in March, the Spoleto Festival hosts theatrical, dance, opera, and musical acts at a range of venues. The International African American Museum offers visitors the chance to tour places where Africans arrived during the slave trade. Visitors can also tour exhibitions that describe the lives of enslaved people and their descendants.

Charleston also has something for those who enjoy dining out. Food lovers can hang out at the Charles Wine and Food Festival in March. Alternatively, visitors can experience the upscale establishment Magnolia's. For a less formal night out there is Bertha's Kitchen, where visitors can try its famous red rice with sausage, fried chicken, and lima beans.

Asheville, North Carolina, is the other city that made the top destination list in the Carolinas. Travel + Leisure reports the town offers a well-rounded vacation destination. Here, tourists can partake in year-round outdoor activities, explore the city's historic sites, and enjoy sophisticated dining spots.

For example, those who like white water rafting can visit Wrong Way River Lodge, where they can stay in A-frame cabins sitting along the French Broad River. Those who want to camp comfortably can stay at AutoCamp Asheville, which will open in mid-2023. The Glamping Collective is another newly opened establishment on a 160-acre site, where visitors can stay in glass cabins and domed pods.

Essential dining establishments include the S&W Market, a food hall offering a wide array of cuisines. French Broad Chocolates and Battery Park Book Exchange are old favorites, the former offering confections and the latter a chance to sip Champagne while enjoying a good read.

Just north of these two states, Alexandria, Virginia, provides tourists with easy access to vineyards in the northern part of the state and the chance to learn more about its history. The city was home to the country's largest domestic slave trade during much of the 1800s.

Sites such as the Freedom House Museum tell the narrative of Africans forced to work as enslaved people. Furthermore, the African American Heritage Trail, which opened in 2020, features 11 historical sites narrating 200 years of African American experiences, including stops at the Torpedo Factory, where Black people worked during WWII, and Waterfront Park, a point known for it slave trafficking. Jones Park is another significant landmark where visitors can learn about Benjamin Banneker, a notable mathematician, inventor, and free man who was instrumental in surveying the new U.S. capital.

Another American favorite, Nashville, Tennessee, is in the middle of a renaissance. The Conrad, 1 Hotel, Soho House, and redesigned Hermitage House are a few of the hotels fueling this rebirth. Regarding good places to dine, visitors can head to Fifth + Broadway Complex, where they can enjoy Southern staples such as fried chicken at Hattie B's or the Assembly Food Hall, which offers varied eating establishments and bars.

In terms of nightlife, travelers can get their fill of honky-tonk bars until the wee hours of the morning. They can also head to Justin Timberlake's Twelve Thirty Club or live events, such as CMA Fest (Country Music Association Festival), which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

For travelers looking to entertain the entire family, Central Florida offers various theme parks, such as Disney World, Epcot, and Universal City Walk, the latter offering adults a sampling of Orlando nightlife. Travelers to Disney this year can eat, breathe, and sleep Star Wars at its newly opened Star Wars: Galactic Star Cruiser, a two-night adventure. Another option is to travel southeast to Tampa and spend the day at Busch Gardens, an amusement park experience with a tropical theme.

A Charleston weekend: Downtown, Rainbow Row, USS Yorktown, USS Laffey, Medal of Honor Exhibit, Vietnam War exhibit, Ft. Sumter ferry ride & tour, AMAZING seafood, Market & Broad Street, City Market White Point Garden, Waterfront Park https://www.instagram.com/p/Co-WujjO8-G/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Traveling Solo in Charleston SC: Tips for a Memorable Experience Shop Local Charleston, SC Businesses [ad_1] Charleston, South Carolina is a charming city filled with history, culture, and Southern hospitality. As a solo traveler, exploring Charleston can be an enriching experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this historic city. From wandering the cobblestone streets of the historic district to sampling Lowcountry cuisine, there is so much to see and do in Charleston as a solo traveler. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your solo adventure in Charleston: 1. Embrace the Charleston Charm One of the best things about traveling solo in Charleston is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's unique charm. Take your time wandering the cobblestone streets of the historic district, admiring the colorful Antebellum houses and lush gardens. Stop by the Charleston City Market to pick up a souvenir or two, and don't forget to snap a photo of the iconic Rainbow Row. Embrace the slower pace of life in Charleston and take the time to savor each moment. 2. Sample Lowcountry Cuisine Charleston is a foodie's paradise, with a vibrant culinary scene that showcases the best of Southern cooking. From shrimp and grits to fried green tomatoes, there are plenty of delicious dishes to try in Charleston. As a solo traveler, don't be afraid to dine alone - many restaurants in Charleston offer bar seating or communal tables, making it easy to strike up a conversation with locals or fellow travelers. Be sure to try some classic Southern fare and don't miss out on the opportunity to sample fresh seafood from the nearby coast. 3. Take a Historic Walking Tour One of the best ways to learn about Charleston's rich history is by taking a historic walking tour. Join a guided tour of the historic district and learn about the city's past, from its role in the Civil War to its vibrant African American heritage. Many tour companies in Charleston offer small group tours that are perfect for solo travelers, allowing you to meet new people and make the most of your time in the city. Don't forget to visit some of Charleston's iconic historic sites, such as Fort Sumter and the Charleston Museum. 4. Explore the Waterfront Charleston's waterfront is a bustling hub of activity, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and historic sites to explore. Take a stroll along the Battery and soak up the views of Charleston Harbor, or hop on a boat tour to explore the city from the water. Stop by the Waterfront Park to relax in the shade of the grand oak trees or enjoy a picnic by the fountains. Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or simply enjoying the beauty of the waterfront, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Charleston. 5. Connect with Locals One of the best parts of traveling solo in Charleston is the opportunity to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant community. Strike up a conversation with a friendly local at a coffee shop or bar, and don't be afraid to ask for recommendations on where to eat, shop, or explore. Charlestonians are known for their Southern hospitality and are always happy to welcome visitors to their city. Take the time to get to know the locals and experience Charleston through their eyes. Conclusion Traveling solo in Charleston, SC can be a rewarding and enriching experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the city's unique charm and history. From exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic district to sampling Lowcountry cuisine, there is so much to see and do in Charleston as a solo traveler. By embracing the Charleston charm, sampling delicious Southern fare, taking a historic walking tour, exploring the waterfront, and connecting with locals, you can make the most of your solo adventure in this charming city. So pack your bags, book your ticket, and get ready for a memorable experience exploring Charleston solo. [ad_2] EXPLORE MORE: Things to do in Charleston SC

CHARLESTON BUSINESS OWNERS: Get a Free Business Profile FIND BUSINESSES: Charleston Business Directory BE SEEN: Advertise Your Business Here #THINGS_TO_DO

Traveling Solo in Charleston SC: Tips for a Memorable Experience Shop Local Charleston, SC Businesses [ad_1] Charleston, South Carolina is a charming city filled with history, culture, and Southern hospitality. As a solo traveler, exploring Charleston can be an enriching experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this historic city. From wandering the cobblestone streets of the historic district to sampling Lowcountry cuisine, there is so much to see and do in Charleston as a solo traveler. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your solo adventure in Charleston: 1. Embrace the Charleston Charm One of the best things about traveling solo in Charleston is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's unique charm. Take your time wandering the cobblestone streets of the historic district, admiring the colorful Antebellum houses and lush gardens. Stop by the Charleston City Market to pick up a souvenir or two, and don't forget to snap a photo of the iconic Rainbow Row. Embrace the slower pace of life in Charleston and take the time to savor each moment. 2. Sample Lowcountry Cuisine Charleston is a foodie's paradise, with a vibrant culinary scene that showcases the best of Southern cooking. From shrimp and grits to fried green tomatoes, there are plenty of delicious dishes to try in Charleston. As a solo traveler, don't be afraid to dine alone - many restaurants in Charleston offer bar seating or communal tables, making it easy to strike up a conversation with locals or fellow travelers. Be sure to try some classic Southern fare and don't miss out on the opportunity to sample fresh seafood from the nearby coast. 3. Take a Historic Walking Tour One of the best ways to learn about Charleston's rich history is by taking a historic walking tour. Join a guided tour of the historic district and learn about the city's past, from its role in the Civil War to its vibrant African American heritage. Many tour companies in Charleston offer small group tours that are perfect for solo travelers, allowing you to meet new people and make the most of your time in the city. Don't forget to visit some of Charleston's iconic historic sites, such as Fort Sumter and the Charleston Museum. 4. Explore the Waterfront Charleston's waterfront is a bustling hub of activity, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and historic sites to explore. Take a stroll along the Battery and soak up the views of Charleston Harbor, or hop on a boat tour to explore the city from the water. Stop by the Waterfront Park to relax in the shade of the grand oak trees or enjoy a picnic by the fountains. Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or simply enjoying the beauty of the waterfront, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Charleston. 5. Connect with Locals One of the best parts of traveling solo in Charleston is the opportunity to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant community. Strike up a conversation with a friendly local at a coffee shop or bar, and don't be afraid to ask for recommendations on where to eat, shop, or explore. Charlestonians are known for their Southern hospitality and are always happy to welcome visitors to their city. Take the time to get to know the locals and experience Charleston through their eyes. Conclusion Traveling solo in Charleston, SC can be a rewarding and enriching experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the city's unique charm and history. From exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic district to sampling Lowcountry cuisine, there is so much to see and do in Charleston as a solo traveler. By embracing the Charleston charm, sampling delicious Southern fare, taking a historic walking tour, exploring the waterfront, and connecting with locals, you can make the most of your solo adventure in this charming city. So pack your bags, book your ticket, and get ready for a memorable experience exploring Charleston solo. [ad_2] EXPLORE MORE: Things to do in Charleston SC

CHARLESTON BUSINESS OWNERS: Get a Free Business Profile FIND BUSINESSES: Charleston Business Directory BE SEEN: Advertise Your Business Here #THINGS_TO_DO

Charleston, South Carolina, USA

Charleston oozes Southern charm and elegance. The city – the oldest in South Carolina, founded in 1670 – retains a small-town air with its pastel-coloured antebellum houses and canopied porches (often complete with a rocking chair or two). Cobblestone streets and boulevards studded with palm trees lead down to the Battery promenade and Waterfront Park, making the most of the city’s perfect location on Charleston Harbor.

April 7 - Molly D’s third day in Beaufort. It’s been a welcomed stop. We left Charleston last Monday and arrived in Beaufort late Friday afternoon. Aside from a quick stop in Wilmington, David and I were on the boat 24/7 during that time. Our travel days from Charleston were 9-10 hours long. We travelled the ICW from Tuesday until our arrival in Beaufort on Friday. Monday was the only day that offshore conditions were favorable. The ICW stretch to Beaufort had fixed bridges, strong currents, shallow water, a soft landing north of Carolina Beach and one day of wind/rain/light fog. Just a little bit of stress!

Our preferred marina in Beaufort is Homer Smith. The current at this marina is only a fraction of what is found at Beaufort Dock, where we have also stayed. Homer Smith was reinvented a few years ago. There are all new docks and a new boaters’ lounge, laundry and shower building. The laundry has 3 huge washers and dryers and they are FREE!! Homer Smith also offers a free courtesy van. If the van keys are hanging up in the laundry room, then the van is available. A grocery store and hardware store are about a 5 mile drive from the marina. The van has more than enough room for everything that you buy.

We have two favorite restaurants, Black Swan and Ribeyes. We love the wood fired pizza at Black Swan. So so good! At Ribeyes, David gets the salmon. I usually get the marinated pork chops, but I went crazy and ordered the 6 oz steak. Again, very good food. The downside of Ribeyes is that because the kitchen is not in a back room but rather semi open to the dining area, you are going to leave the restaurant smelling like grilled food. Yuk!

Tomorrow Molly D will head about 70 miles north. Very long day. On Thursday (possibly Wednesday) we should make Coinjock, NC. If all goes well, the day we leave Coinjock we will make it to Norfolk and the end of the ICW!!! Something positive to look forward to! Getting closer to home and I for one can’t wait!

Molly D is docked in Beaufort

Heavy pollen on the water

Mud flat at low tide. Note the exposed oyster shells

View from the Beaufort Town Dock

The yacht Annabelle entering Beaufort Harbor

Maritime Museum

Maritime Museum boat shed

View of Beaufort Harbor from the park adjacent to the Maritime Museum boat shed

Loving life!

View of the Beaufort waterfront

Most popular places to visit during Charleston bachelorette party

1- Fort Sumter Tour

It is a sea fortification built on an artificial island that protects the city of Charleston from sea invasion, as it is the most famous city in South Carolina.

The reason for building the fort was the War of 1812, which resulted in the invasion of Washington by sea by the British.

Then in the mid-20th century, the Fort Sumter Tour became open to the public and is one of the most prominent places you can visit during a Charleston bachelorette party.

2- Joe Riley Waterfront Park

It covers eight acres along about a half-mile of the Copper River in Charleston.

Joe Riley Waterfront Park is one of the most prominent parks that are recommended to visit during a Charleston bachelorette party.

This award recognizes an outstanding landscape architecture project.

The Historic Highlight Tours is an excellent way to not only get a comprehensive, historic understanding of Charleston but to also learn how to navigate and familiarize yourself with Charleston. The Historic Highlight Tour of Charleston shows its guests the essential, historic locations of the city such as Rainbow Row, The Charleston City Market, The Battery, Pineapple Fountain and Waterfront Park. Guests will learn about over 300 years of the city’s history and see Charleston’s true aesthetic nature! From cobblestone streets to Antebellum mansions and mesmerizing churches this tour covers it all. 

If you’re planning a trip to South Carolina and like to blend history and fun attractions with a touch of Southern hospitality and a lot of Lowcountry cuisine, Charleston is waving the welcome flag. The shopping, dining, seeing, and doing parts of the trip are all easy to plan, but where should you stay in Charleston?The best hotels in Charleston offer convenient access to historic churches, relaxing parks, stunning waterfront scenery, and some of the best shopping and dining on the coast. You’ll find boutique hotels, family-friendly resorts, or a Charleston luxury hotel with marble bathrooms, antique furnishing, fine art, and a rooftop bar.

Charleston, SC Pictures Daily - Charleston Waterfront Park - Friday February 3rd 2023.

#Charleston

Fun things to do in Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant subtown in Charleston County. It is a prime tourist spot.

This place is full of fun things to do in Mount Pleasant. Its vibe will just make anyone fond of the place. It has several parks, scenic beauty and different fun activities which makes anyone dying to visit the place. 

Here, It has Plantation house, a stroll across the river, Old town village, waterfront, iconic cable-stayed bridge, two mini-golf courses, go-karts, a jumping area, a great arcade, climbing wall and even a place to dig for gemstones to experience something different.

Last but not the least sunset view. Best thing to do in this spot is to watch the sun go down while casting your line.