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Embrace this city of pastel building, narrow alleys and the hidden garden.  Explore the pristine beaches, the monumental battleships, the well-preserved architecture and of course the true southern hospitality.   Be sure to take advantage of your time in Charleston, and have some fun while you are in town!

Local Attractions:

22nd Annual Charleston Farmers Market
http://www.charlestoncvb.com/visitors/events_news/charleston-events/22nd_annual_charleston_farmers_ market-6770
Located in Marion Square, the City of Charleston office of Cultural Affairs opens this market to residents and visitors alike to enjoy locally grown produce and processed food products alongside handmade arts and crafts.

Battery/White Point Gardens
http://www.discoversouthcarolina.com/products/359.aspx
The Battery is the southernmost tip of the Charleston Peninsula.  Here you will find the White Point Gardens, a landmark that defines the Charleston look and feel.  Either walk or drive by the impressive mansion architecture and beautiful tall oak trees.  See the 18th century cannons, historical statues, and a pretty gazebo with a perfect view of Fort Sumter in their backdrop.

King Street Shopping District
http://www.discovercharleston.com/shopping/king-street.htm
This is the best known place in town for great shopping, restaurants and bars.  Here you will find some of the best antique shopping in the US, some of the trendiest and updates fashion styles, and some great interior design décor and home furnishing shopping.

Middleton Place
https://www.middletonplace.org
Dating back to c. 1741, this National Historic Landmark now includes an Inn, restaurant, and America’s oldest landscaped Gardens and Stable yard!  This plantation has maintained the same look as it had in the 18th century.

Rainbow Row
http://www.charlestonlowcountry.com/about/RainbowRow.html
This section of East Bay Street was built between the 1720s-1790s.  After the Civil War, it was considered the “slum” of Charleston.  It was renovated in the early 1900s and given Caribbean colors that are still seen today, hence the name.  This stretch has become a familiar ‘face’ of Charleston!

South Carolina Aquarium
http://scaquarium.org
This aquarium is one of Charleston’s most visited attractions.  It is a great place to view the harbor, and check out their new Albino Alligator Exhibit or pet the stingrays.

Spirit Line Dinner Cruise
http://www.spiritlinecruises.com
Enjoy a three hour evening cruise on the water, complete with a multi-course dinner, live music and great views of the Charleston Harbor!

Charleston’s Good Eats:

39 Rue de Jean
http://www.39ruedejean.com
Enjoy some French flair at this French café and bar which offers the best in classic Brassiere cuisine.  Have a seat on the outdoor patio and review their predominantly French wine list blended with a selection of the steward’s favorites.

Basil
http://www.eatatbasil.com
If you are in the mood for a refined Thai cuisine, this restaurant is your best bet.  Enjoy the exotic flavors and be sure to try the chicken coconut soup or the crispy red curry duck!

Cypress
http://www.magnolias-blossom-cypress.com/cypresshome.asp?catID=20427
This two-story establishment specializes in low country cuisine, keeping the historic hoe’s aged brick walls and lofty ceilings but updating the space with glass and steel.  A wood burning grill helps bring out the flavors of the ingredients, a long wine list and the sweet touch of the dessert menu is not something to miss!

Fig
http://www.eatatfig.com
This contemporary bistro and bar serves up a delightful spread of locally grown produce and meats.  Start with a sweet Vidalia onion tart or a plate of artisanal cheeses and you won’t want to stop there!

Fish
http://www.fishrestaurantcharleston.com
A lovely balcony sits on the side of the restaurant providing some pleasant outdoor seating.  Housed in a historic King Street home, indulge in exquisite seafood dishes including pan-seared red snapper with crispy noodles or roasted freshwater bass with sautéed bok choy.

High Cotton
http://www.mavericksouthernkitchens.com/highcotton/charleston
Understand true Charleston hospitality as soon as you enter the stylish dining room and bar complete with antique brick and heart pine floors.  Treat yourself to rich southern cuisine on this restaurant’s delectable menu.

Husk
http://www.huskrestaurant.com
Be sure to make your reservation as soon as you read this; Husk was recently named Bon Appétit Magazine’s 2011 Best New Restaurant in America!  This restaurant specializes in local and regional cuisine perfectly paired with full wine list.  The award-winning Chef Sean Brock changes the menu daily truly transforming the essence of Southern cuisine.

Magnolia’s
http://www.magnolias-blossom-cypress.com/magnoliasHome.asp?catID=20426
This is a popular hot spot for both locals and visitors, set in an elegant and modern backdrop.  The staff serves up sophisticated Southern dishes and desserts making everyone wanting to come back for more.  Later in the evening this restaurant does become a bit of a vibrant bar scene, to be sure to get their early and stay late!

McCrady’s
http://www.mccradysrestaurant.com
This high end restaurant is located at a National Register of Historic Places and Landmarks, representing a fusion of southern fine dining and postmodern gastronomy.  Chef Sean Brock centers his menu around innovative fresh ingredients from the farm and local suppliers.

Peninsula Grill
www.peninsulagrill.com
Velvet-paneled walls and oil paintings set a lavish scene with antique lamps light each table.  The Chef doesn’t recommend skipping dessert, known for saying it is the best delight after every meal.  With lemon crisps or heavenly coconut cake, who can argue with that?