How to Spend 36 Hours in Charleston, SC: A Guide to Southern Charm & Style

Charleston, SC, is a city that captivates visitors with its historic charm, stunning waterfront views, and vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, exploring real estate opportunities, or seeking a coastal retreat, Charleston offers the perfect blend of history, luxury, and Southern hospitality. Here’s how to make the most of 36 hours in Charleston, packed with the best experiences for travelers, home buyers, and design lovers alike.

Day 1: Arrive & Immerse in Charleston’s Charm

3:00 PM – Check into Your Charleston Stay

Whether you’re staying in a historic downtown home, a luxury boutique hotel, or a waterfront vacation rental, Charleston’s accommodations embody Southern elegance. If you’re house hunting, take note of the city’s signature piazzas, wrought-iron gates, and pastel-colored facades that define Lowcountry architecture. A few of our fave stays include: The Loutrel, Hotel Bennett, The Dewberry, and Hotel Emeline.

4:00 PM – Stroll the Historic District

Start your adventure with a leisurely walk through South of Broad, home to iconic rainbow-colored townhouses, cobblestone streets, and grand antebellum mansions. Architecture & design lovers will appreciate the well preserved 18th-century homes, where one can admire the intricate ironwork, gas lanterns, and wraparound porches that define Charleston style.

6:00 PM – Sunset Cocktails on a Rooftop

Head to The Dewberry’s Citrus Club or The Vendue’s Rooftop Bar for breathtaking views of Charleston’s skyline. Sip a craft cocktail while watching the sun dip behind the Ravenel Bridge—the perfect way to toast to Lowcountry living.

7:30 PM – Dinner at a Charleston Culinary Hotspot

Charleston’s food scene is legendary, blending Southern tradition with coastal sophistication. Try The Ordinary for locally sourced Lowcountry cuisine or 167 Raw for fresh seafood dishes. No matter where you stay on the Peninsula these dining gems are just minutes away!

Day 2: Design, Shopping & Coastal Adventures

8:00 AM – Coffee & Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your morning at Harken Café or Clerks Coffee, both nestled in beautifully designed spaces that reflect Charleston’s mix of historic and modern aesthetics.

9:00 AM – Explore Charleston’s Interior Design Scene

For interior design lovers, Charleston is a treasure trove of inspiration. Stop by GDC Home, Fritz Porter, and Celadon for a curated selection of coastal-chic furniture, textiles, and home accessories that capture the essence of Lowcountry luxury.

11:00 AM – Waterfront Walk & Real Estate Tour

Take a walk along The Battery, where grand waterfront mansions overlook the harbor. If you’re considering buying property in Charleston, schedule a tour of luxury homes in South of Broad, Sullivan’s Island, or Kiawah Island—each offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern coastal living.

12:30 PM – Beachside Lunch & Relaxation

Drive over to Sullivan’s Island for a casual beachside lunch at The Obstinate Daughter, a local favorite known for fresh seafood and coastal ambiance. Take some time to explore Charleston’s best beaches, whether it's Folly Beach for a laid-back vibe or Isle of Palms for luxury beachfront homes.

3:00 PM – Final Stop: A Sweet Treat & Farewell Stroll

Before heading out, grab a scoop at Off Track Ice Cream or a classic benne wafer from a local market. Take one last stroll through King Street’s boutiques and galleries, soaking in Charleston’s undeniable charm.

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