Ready to plan that fall getaway? Curious about destinations that maximize cooler weather and offer quality lodgings, locations, and entertainment? Charleston, South Carolina should top the list.

With the end of summer and the return of the work/school routine, now is a perfect time to plan that next extended couples weekend or a quick trip with family. Charleston, rich with its historic landmarks and nearby sandy beaches, has a wide variety of sightseeing tours, day trips, and nightlife to enjoy. 

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Climate

South Carolina averages 80 to 60 degrees in the fall, comfortable for walking tours, beach excursions, and other outdoor activities. Late fall and early winter are also off-season, allowing for discounted travel packages. (FYI: The Charleston social climate finds locals preferring shirts, skirts, and khakis to casual t-shirts and jeans.)  

Things to Discover

History lovers will be enamored with brick and cobblestone streets lined by centuries-old homes, working gas lamps, and horse-drawn carriages. Visit countless mansions turned into museums, prominent churches, preserved civil war sites such as Fort Sumter, and experience plantation tours with guided reenactments.

Nearby beach towns include Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island. Folly’s long stretch of coastline is ideal for sun, play, or relaxation. The casual, affordable eateries and beachfront bars and hotels provide expansive water views. Rich in history, Sullivan’s Beach settles 10 miles east of Charleston with vacation rentals plus many shops, eateries, and sightseeing.

Where to Stay

U.S. News & World Report annually ranks hotel locations. The 2021 Charleston top picks include The Spectator Hotel, The Dewberry Charleston, and the French Quarter Inn.

Their three to five-star-rated Crowne Plaza Charleston Airport – Convention Center, North Charleston Marriott, and the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Suites Charleston Airport will accommodate rooms under $250 a night, based on the time of year. $250 to $500 nightly rates from the Belmond Charleston Place, Hotel Bennett, and The Restoration scored high marks. 

If on a budget, Charleston’s lengthy list of established B&Bs often includes many complimentary perks at reasonable rates. There are also vacation rentals for extended stays at competitive prices.

What’s Fun

Enjoy Charleston by foot, carriage, and even by boat. Sites are often free to the public or come with affordable tours (though reservations may be required.)

The Battery: Waterfront views along the southern seawall include a visit to the famous Rainbow Row, and nearby civil war significant White Point Garden. 

Waterfront Park: 10 acres of tree-lined paths, picnic areas, and breathtaking waterfront views. Home of the infamous Pineapple fountain that locals tout as the most photographed location within the city.

Charleston City Market: One of the oldest shopping locations in the U.S., vendors are selling regional souvenirs and local Gullah artisans craft authentically made merchandise.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and Drayton Hall: (5) Magnolia Plantation offers both history and nature with a tour of the plantation home, landscaped gardens, and an overview of life in the south before emancipation. Drayton Hall dates back to 1783 and also teaches similar history to visitors. It has historically relevant artifacts and an onsite African American Cemetery. 

The Charleston Museum: This museum is one of the first in the nation. It has an impressive collection of Revolutionary and Civil War artifacts and focuses on an in-depth history of the South Carolina low country.

Charleston Food Tours: Costs vary, but expect between $75-125 for walking tours of the tastiest venues. Only serious foodies need to apply.

Charleston Harbor Sunset Boat Cruises and Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours: A must-do while in the city. There are multiple vendors with varying price and reservation requirements.  

Book a fall visit to Charleston. You’ll be glad you did.  

photo credits: pixabay: Don Stelmaszek, Dennis Larson, David, gillinghams6, David

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