Traveler of Charleston Mag - Spring 2016

Sample Local Beers + Spirits

Charleston Spring Bucket List

Must-Do Events + Festivals

april – june 2016

TRAVELER of Charleston

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The Source For All Things Charleston

travelerofcharleston.com

Contents

DEPARTMENTS 6 16 42 44 48 62 64 69

Welcome to Charleston See + Do Shop + Savor Shopping Guide Eat + Drink Traveler TV Maps Directory of Advertisers

FEATURES 10 12 21 40 54 55 56 58

Charleston History Timeline Charleston on Tap Charleston in Bloom Springtime Bucket List Dinner with a View Five Charleston Freebies Recipe: Praline Cookies Charleston Area Events

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Be sure to download our free mobile app which is the #1 ranked and downloaded app for Charleston!

14

From the Publisher Welcome to Charleston! elcome to Charleston in the spring!

It really is one of the best times to visit. The flowers are blooming, outdoor activities and festivals are in full swing and we’re all ready to feel the warm sun on our faces.

In the last few years, Charleston’s craft beer scene has really come to life. If you enjoy sampling local brews along with locally crafted spirits and wine, check out our story on Page 12 for a list of some great area breweries, beer-themed events and tours and places to sample the suds and take home your favorites.

We realize that it’s really tough to cram all that Charleston has to offer into a few days of vacation. To help you prioritize, we’ve created a springtime bucket list. Head over to Page 40 for must-do activities and attractions.

While you’re here, be sure to take in the many events happening all over the area.

Whether you like crafts, live performances, adventure or relaxing, you’ll be certain to find the perfect event on our Events Calendar (Page 58).

If you need more information, download our free mobile app overflowing with visitor information, including maps, parking locations, public restroom listings, and details on attractions, restaurants and tours. Search “Charleston SC” on iTunes or Google Play.

And be sure to stop by our website at travelerofcharleston.com for even more visitor information, coupons, an expanded calendar of events and our blog.

W

TRAVELER

®

of Charleston

Member of: Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau; Charleston Restaurant Association; Summerville/Dorchester Chamber of Commerce.

Traveler of Charleston Team KEITH SIMMONS has an extensive publishing, marketing and advertising background and founded Traveler Magazine in 2005. His purpose was to develop an affordable and effective visitor medium where businesses could advertise their service. Traveler is now one of the leading visitor resources in the city. Keith lives in Mount Pleasant with his wife and sons.

He enjoys fishing, kayaking and spending time with his family.

HOLLY FISHER is a long-time writer and editor with a love of telling stories. She has lived in Charleston more than a decade and enjoys sharing the tales of the Holy City with visitors and newcomers to the area. Holly lives in the Mount Pleasant area with her husband, daughter and three dogs. When she isn’t at her computer writing for work and for fun, you can find her reading or doing CrossFit. SALLY HEINEMAN honed her knack for graphic design at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA where she received a BFA in Graphic Design. Drawn to the South and the love of everything Lowcountry, Sally opened the doors of her graphic design business, Heineman Design, in 1992.

Publisher/Founder.................... Keith Simmons Editor........................................... Holly Fisher Graphic Designer...................... Heineman Design Distribution................................ Denise Fletcher Distribution................................ Brian Bean Distribution................................ Cinnamon Kerr Cover Illustration...................... Paula Pindroh Nelson

info@TRAVELERofCharleston.com | 843-410-2577 | TRAVELERofCharleston.com TRAVELER of Charleston is produced by the Traveler Communications Group, LLC, and is published four times yearly and distributed to various locations throughout the Charleston area, including all visitors centers, hotels, airports, beach rentals, grocery stores, high-traffic areas, advertiser locations and many other points throughout the surrounding area. Concept, design and contents of TRAVELER of Charleston are copyrighted and may not be reproduced. www.travelerofcharleston.com.

The copy and advertising deadline for the next issue is June 1, 2016.

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to CHARLESTON

T

HIS AMAZING PLACE ONLY GETS BETTER WITH TIME. Each year more people flock to this historic port city to soak up the history, culture and architecture and bask in Southern goodness.

In recent years, Charleston has become a destination for shopping and its incredible culinary scene is attracting global attention.

From arts and theater to fine dining and watersports, this is one city that truly offers something for everyone. But this Holy City has a storied past.

An early English settlement, Charleston has survived wars, fires, earthquakes and hurricanes to rise up as one of the country’s top travel destinations.

As you’re visiting our beloved city, get acquainted with her history, celebrate her charms and delight in all the amazing beauty Charleston has to offer.

1718

1672 English colonists settle Charles Town on the Ashley River

Blackbeard the Pirate sails into Charles Town Harbor with four ships; takes hostages for ransom

1740 Charles Town becomes most critical port in North America for exporting rice, indigo and cotton

1719 City is renamed “Charlestown”

1783 City renamed “Charleston”

1718 1680

Pirate Stede Bonnet is hanged at White Point Garden

Settlement is relocated to peninsula Charles Town – population 1,000

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1736 Dock Street Theatre opens, first building in U.S. used exclusively for theatrical performances

1775-1783

1790

Revolutionary War; Siege of Charleston in 1780

College of Charleston founded

1920 Preservation Society founded to protect historic resources

1824 Charleston Museum opens

1828-29 Young Army recruit named Edgar Allan Poe is stationed at Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island

2016

1864 CSS Hunley sinks USS Housatonic in Charleston harbor

1989 Hurricane Hugo hits the city and surrounding areas with 135 mph winds

In January Joseph P. Riley Jr. retires after 40 years as Charleston mayor

2006 Charleston Wine + Food Festival founded

1886 1861 1791 President George Washington visits, lodging at the Daniel Hayward House and attending a reception at the Old Exchange and a social at McCrady’s Longroom

Confederate troops fire the first shots of the Civil War upon Fort Sumter

Major earthquake hits Charleston, damaging 2,000 buildings, killing 110 people

2005 Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge over the Cooper River opens

1977 Spoleto Festival USA begins

april-june 2016 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 11

Charleston On Tap Sample the area’s many craft brews, spirits

Charleston’s reputation for a world-class culinary destination has spilled over into our pint glasses.

In just the last few years, numerous breweries and distilleries have opened all over the area, giving locals and visitors a reason to raise their glass and toast the beverage artistry of Charleston.

Breweries, distilleries and a local winery offer tours, tastings and plenty of special events so you can sip, sample and savor.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the area’s musttry breweries and distilleries along with a list of upcoming beer-themed events and places you can pick up your favorite spirits to take home.

By Holly Fisher

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Photo: Jay Wayne Productions

Revelry Brewing Co. 10 Conroy St., Charleston, SC 29403 843-203-6194 | revelrybrewingco.com Live music: 6-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday Westbrook Brewing Co. 510 Ridge Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-654-9114 | westbrookbrewing.com Tours and tastings: 4-7 p.m. Tuesday to Friday; noon to 6 p.m. Saturday.

Cooper River Brewing Co. 2201B Mechanic St., Charleston, SC 29405 843-830-3681 | cooperriverbrewing.com Hours: 4-10 p.m. Thursday – Friday; noon to 10 p.m. Saturday; 1-7 p.m. Sunday Coast Brewing Co. 1250 2nd St. North, North Charleston, SC 29405 843-343-4727 | coastbrewing.com Tasting hours: 4-7 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday

Photo: Holy City Brewing

Holy City Brewing 4155 Dorchester Road, North Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-5623 | holycitybrewing.com Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Free tours available by request.

On-site kitchen serves apps, burgers, sandwiches and Sunday brunch.

Photo: Holy City Brewing

Palmetto Brewing 289 Huger St., Charleston, SC 29403 843-937-0903 | palmettobrewery.com Tasting room: 3-7 p.m. Tuesday to Wednesday; 2-9 p.m. Thursday; 1-10 p.m.

Friday; 1-7 p.m. Saturday. Brewery tours available by demand.

Photo: Jay Wayne Productions

Best brews

Freehouse Brewery 2895 Pringle St., Suite B, North Charleston, SC 29405 freehousebeer.com Ashley River Taproom: 3-8 p.m.

Tuesday; 1-8 p.m. Saturday Frothy Beard Brewing Co. 7358 Peppermill Parkway, North Charleston, SC 29418 843-793-2970 | frothybeard.com Hours: 3-8 p.m. Monday to Thursday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday to Sunday Tradesman Brewing Co. 1639 Tatum St., Charleston, SC 29412 843-410-1315 | tradesmanbrewing.com Taproom: 4:30-8 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; noon to 8 p.m. Saturday

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Spirited sips & wines Deep Water Vineyard 6775 Bears Bluff Road, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487 843-559-6867 | deepwatervineyard.com Self-guided tours and tastings: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday; $5 to taste five varietals and includes complimentary wine glass. Formerly Irvin-House Vineyard, this 48-acre winery and vineyard grows muscadine grapes to produce its authentic muscadine wine.

Charleston Distilling Co. 501 King St., Charleston, SC 29403 843-718-1446 | charlestondistilling.com Hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday; book a tasting tour online.

Sample small batch craft spirits, such as pepper-flavored vodka, gin, bourbon barrel gin and an all-natural whiskey liqueur distilled with ginger and a hint of aromatic cinnamon.

Firefly Distillery & Tasting Room 6775 Bears Bluff Road, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487 843-557-1405 | fireflyspirits.com Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday; $6 per tasting. Enjoy a sample or purchase some of Firefly’s best sellers: Sweet Tea Vodka, Moonshine, Sweet Tea Whiskey and Firefly Southern Lemonade.

High Wire Distilling Co. 652 King St., Charleston, SC 29403 843-755-4664 highwiredistilling.squarespace.com Tastings and tours: Offered Thursday through Saturday every hour on the hour from 1-6 p.m. Cost is $5 per person and includes three half-ounce tasting samples of gin, whiskey, Southern Amaro Liqueur and more. Reservations are recommended.

Striped Pig Distillery 2225-A Old School Drive, North Charleston, SC 29405 843-276-3201 | stripedpigdistillery.com Tours and tastings: 3-7 p.m. Thursday to Friday; noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. Tours are $5/person and begin the top of every hour; book a tour online or walk in. Sample spiced run, whiskey, gin and vodka.

Visit travelerofcharleston.com/blog for more about Charleston's craft beer scene.

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Check out Deep Water Vineyard's Weekend WineDown from noon to 4 p.m. each Saturday. There's food, live music and plenty of wine tastings in a tranquil setting.

Photo: Christina Pradhan

Deep Water Vineyard

Where to buy Bottles Beverage Superstore, 610 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant shopbottles.com Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday for beer and wine; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday for liquor; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. for beer and wine only. Bottles has a large selection of wines, craft beers and spirits from all over with a concentration on local products.

Drinks with friends Charleston Beer Garden – Known as Charleston's largest pop-up beer garden, brew lovers will converge on The Grove at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant for craft beer, live music, Homebrewer’s Village and Yelp Beer Games. Noon to 7 p.m. on May 14.

Proceeds benefit Lowcountry AIDS Services. charlestonbeergarden.com Craft Beer Dinner – Join Circa 1886 Chef Marc Collins for a four-course dinner paired with a selection of local beers. $60/person.

6:30 p.m. June 16 at 149 Wentworth St. circa1886.com Brew HaHa – Laughs and crafts are on tap at Brew HaHa, a celebration of Charleston craft beer and comedy at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center.

Tastings from local breweries, live music, food and a comedy show with Jeremy McLallan. 1-6 p.m. June 18; $5 parking (cash only). northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com Haunted Pub Crawl – Join Bulldog Tours to learn about Charleston's ghostly past while enjoying drinks at area bars and taverns. 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday; $25/person. 843-722-8687 bulldogtours.com Weekend Wine-Down – From noon to 4 p.m. each Saturday, Deep Water Vineyard on Wadmalaw Island has food, live music and plenty of wine tastings in a tranquil setting. 843-559-6867 deepwatervineyard.com

Craft Conundrum, 630 Skylark Drive, Charleston | craftconundrum.com Hours: Noon to 10 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday; noon to midnight Friday to Saturday. With 100 beers on tap, you're sure to find a favorite craft brew. Plus you can purchase beers you like.

Craftsman Kitchen & Taphouse, 12 Cumberland St., Charleston craftsmentaphouse.com. This downtown location has 48 taps with two different bars, one being a Pale Room. The Pale Room has 12 taps dedicated to hoppy beers like Pale Ales, IPAs, and Double IPAs. The other bar has 36 taps with a variety of other beer styles.

Coleman Public House, 427 W. Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant colemanpublichouse.com Hours: Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Sixteen rotating taps of top quality imported and domestic craft beer.

Bohemian Bull Tavern & Beer Garden, 1531 Folly Road, James Island bohemianbull.com. Hours: 11 a.m. to midnight Monday to Thursday; 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday to Saturday. Choose from 32 draft beers and 75 bottled/canned beers with a huge selection of locally brewed beer. Plus, enjoy a fun atmosphere, especially the outdoor space.

Homegrown Brewhouse, 117 S. Main St., Summerville | homegrownbrewhouse.com Hours: 3-9 p.m. Monday to Saturday.

Enjoy 40 taps pouring predominantly South Carolina craft beer.

Drink responsibly! Contact a local taxi service, pedicab or Uber for a safe ride. april-june 2016 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 15

See + Do Charleston is known for her rich history, picturesque scenery and culinary excellence.

Many experienced touring companies are ready to show you a great time.

How to use this magazine: You’ll find each type of tour and attraction categorized for easy reference. Many listings include a map grid locator. Find the grid location, then reference the maps on pages 64 through 68.

WHETHER YOU’RE A HISTORY BUFF, WATER ENTHUSIAST OR SIMPLY ENJOY STROLLING THE COBBLESTONE STREETS OF CHARLESTON YOU’LL FIND PLENTY OF WAYS TO EXPLORE THE HOLY CITY. See a plantation home, tour the harbor, take a carriage ride or visit a museum.

SEE + DO

ACCOMMODATIONS Low Country Yacht Charters 17 Lockwood Blvd. • (Map B:6) 201-707-1570 lowcountryyachtcharters.com Low Country Yacht Charters delivers a unique on-water Charleston experience from special overnight stays at the world renowned, downtown City Marina to custom private charters, excursions and special events around the diverse Lowcountry regions, including Capers & Kiawah-Seabrook Islands.

ART & THEATER ACTIVITIES The Footlight Players 20 Queen St. • Charleston • (Map: H:8) 843-722-4487 • footlightplayers.net The Footlight Players, formed in 1932, provides professional quality, affordable community theater for the Lowcountry at the historic Footlight Players Theatre in the heart of downtown Charleston. Its ongoing productions include comedies, dramas, musicals, seasonal productions and children’s theater.

The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre & Shoppe 164 Church St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7/8) 843-WE SMILE (937-6453) charlestonmysteries.com • Live comedy theatre in a cozy setting -- clean comic whodunit shows, volunteer audience participation, a la carte appetizers, drinks and desserts. Featuring Inspector NoClue's Murder Mystery (one of Charleston's longest continually running shows), Sherlock Holmes & the Charleston History Mystery, Heist, Heist Baby, and Church Street Daughters of the Late Unpleasantness Garden, Gun & Gin Club, and many more. 1/2 block off City Market.

The Sound of Charleston Show location: Circular Congregational Church: 150 Meeting St. • Charleston • (G:8) • 843-2704903 • soundofcharleston.com • A recent review

by Frommers Travel Guide sums the show up perfectly: “The best night out in the city is this must-see performance of gospel, Gershwin, music of the Civil War, light classics and jazz - all the elements of Charleston's rich musical stew”.

CARRIAGE TOURS Palmetto Carriage Works 8 Guignard St. • (Map: H:7) • 843-723-8145 palmettocarriage.com • Departs from The Big Red Barn every 15 to 20 minutes, rain or shine, beginning at 9 a.m. Tours are one hour long, covering about 25 blocks of residential and historic districts. Guides are city licensed.

See our ad on the inside front cover.

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SEE + DO

COMBO TOURS Carriage & Harbor Combo Tour Harbor Tours • 10 Wharfside St. • (Map :J:5/6) Palmetto Carriage • 8 Guignard Street 888-224-5037 or 843-722-1112 charlestonharbortours • Harbor Tours departs from the Maritime Center three times daily with a 90-minute live narrated sightseeing cruise aboard the 1920s style Bay Steamer – Carolina Belle. Palmetto Carriage tour departs from the Big Red Barn every 20-30 minutes beginning at 9 a.m. The one-hour tour covers 25 to 30 blocks of the historic and residential districts.

Ghost Walking & Harbor Combo Tour For tickets: 10 Wharfside St. • (Map: J:5/6) online at charlestonharbortours.com or bulldogtours.com • Zerve Ticketing at 888-224-5037 or 843-722-1112 • Take one of Charleston’s best Ghost Tours and a Harbor History Tour aboard the Carolina Belle. You get to choose from the spooktacular “Ghost and Graveyard” walking tour or the Haunted Jail Tour and you get a harbor tour featuring Fort Sumter, Fort Moultrie, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and 70+ other points of interest. Tours may be taken on different days.

Plantation & Harbor Combo Tour For tickets: 10 Wharfside St. • (Map: J:5/6) charlestonharbortours.com or Zerve ticketing: 888-224-5037 or 843-722-1112 Tour a spectacular Southern plantation, the new Slave Museum and beautiful grounds paired with a 90-minute “Harbor of History” tour. Fort Sumter, Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the Battery and downtown landmarks. Tours may be taken on different days.

Gray Line & Fort Sumter Tour Combo 843-722-BOAT(2628) • fortsumtertours.com, graylineofcharleston.com • Save $4 per person!

Enjoy a comprehensive tour of Charleston’s historic district and take the only boat tour to Fort Sumter. Licensed and experienced tour guides lead a 90-minute exploration of Charleston’s rich history on air-conditioned mini-buses. The Gray Line tour features 100+ points of interest with a stop at the Battery. Tours depart every 30 minutes from the Charleston Visitor’s Center, 375 Meeting St. Free hotel pickup in historic district.

BOAT & WATER Barrier Island Eco-Tours 50 41st Ave. • Isle of Palms Marina • (Map: N:6) 843-886-5000 • nature-tours.com • Naturalist guided boat excursions to Capers Island Preserve. Travel the salt marsh creeks, see dolphins and wildlife up close, explore the “boneyard beach” and walk inland trails.

Morning and sunset eco-tours, creek fishing, crabbing, kayaking or beach-side cookouts.

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Charleston in Bloom On just about every street you’ll find trees in bloom, shrubs bursting with color and window boxes filled with fragrant flowers. You can see these beautiful blooms – and many more – by simply walking the Battery, the streets South of Broad and in many of Charleston’s parks.

Azaleas: With thousands of varieties of azaleas, they are a common shrub. You might not give them a second look most of the year but in the spring, they are certain to get your attention. Look for their mostly hot pink, red and white flowers in yards, gardens and parks all over town Wisteria: A high-climbing, trailing vine, wisteria can grow up to 70 feet long. In the spring, it drips clumps of lilac blooms in a showy display of springtime beauty.

Wisteria is an invasive plant because its dense growth can choke out trees and other plants.

Jasmine: This plant’s intoxicating scent is a true signal spring has arrived. Confederate jasmine is commonly found here in coastal South Carolina and its fragrant clusters of white and yellow flowers bloom on twining stems in spring and into the summer.

Photo of a Rosa 'Blush Noisette' by Jim Martin

Crepe Myrtle: With its arching branches and flowers of bright pink, red and white, this tree is a Southern staple. Once the crepe myrtle shows its colors, you know spring is on its way.

Stop and smell the roses Charleston is also home to the Noisette rose, a hardy rose that can withstand a hot Southern summer and cool winter temperatures. These roses also have a high resistance to disease. But what’s truly special about this rose is its history and tie to Charleston.

According to the Charleston Horticultural Society, John Champneys of Charleston crossed a rose commonly called “Old Blush” with another variety called Rosa Moschata to create Champneys’ Pink Cluster, America’s first hybridized rose.

Champneys gifted the rose to his friend Philippe Noisette, a French botanist, who refined the hybrid to create the Blush Noisette with delicate blooms and pastel colors.

april-june 2016 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 21

SEE + DO

BOAT & WATER

BOAT & WATER

Charleston Harbor Tours

Tidalwave Watersports

Charleston Maritime Center. • 10 Wharfside St., Charleston • (Map: J:5/6) • 888-224-5037 or 843-722-1112 • charlestonharbortours.com Board the Carolina Belle for Charleston’s only live narrated harbor history tour. Relax and enjoy a beverage from the snack bar as the captain details the forts and landmarks that shaped Charleston’s historic harbor. Private charters and group dinner cruises available.

69 41st Ave • Isle of Palms (Map: N:6) tidalwavewatersports.com • 843-886-8456 Tidalwave offers the ultimate in parasailing, waverunner, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and boat riding that the Charleston area.

Isle of Palms Marina

Angler Management Fishing

50 41st Ave. • Isle of Palms • (Map: N:6) 843-886-0209 • iopmarina.com • A full-service marina with 50 slips, a full-service store with a deli with groceries, beer, wine, bait and tackle. Powerboat rentals and customized excursions, group outings and fishing charters can be booked here.

843-259-1489 • anglermanagementsc.com Custom, year-round saltwater inshore fishing charters for families, groups, beginners and professionals. Fish in the Intracoastal Waterway, harbor and tidal creeks. Capt. Ethan will provide licenses, bait, tackle and ice. Eco and harbor tours available. See ad in this section.

Nature Adventure Tours

Reel Deal Charter

325 W. Coleman Blvd. • Mount Pleasant (Map: O:2 at Shem Creek, on the water) 843-568-3222 • kayakcharlestonsc.com Charleston’s outstanding naturalist-guided kayak, canoe and paddle-board tour service.

Tour salt-water marshes, swamps, rice plantations. See dolphins, pelicans and a wide variety of wildlife. Families and beginners are welcome; rentals also available.

Multiple area departure locations - some tours depart from Shem Creek, Mount Pleasant 843-388-5093 • thereeldealcharters.com Join The Reel Deal Charters for year-round inshore/offshore, deep-sea, big game and saltwater fishing. Includes licenses, bait and tackle. Operating several boats with the lowest prices for a “reel” fishing experience! Mention “Traveler” for discounts.

Sandlapper Water Tours

Redfin Charters

Tour depart from the Maritime Center (by S.C. Aquarium) • 10 Wharfside St. • Charleston (Map K:4) • 843-849-8687 for info; 800-979-3370 for tickets • sandlappertours.com Take the haunted ghost & pirate tour or cruise the Charleston harbor with a history tour.

145 Lockwood Blvd • Charleston • (Map A:4) 843-277-5255 • redfincharters.com Come fish with a Pro Angler who’s fished Charleston's waters for decades. Offering halfday, three-quarters of a day and full-day charters to near-shore reefs on a custom Blackjack 224 Hybrid Bay Boat. Mention "Fish On" for up to $50 off your trip!

Schooner Pride – Charleston’s Tall Ship

FISHING CHARTERS

360 Concord St. • Charleston • (Map: J:5) 888-245-9206 or 843-722-1112 schoonerpride.com • Marvel at the Holy City skyline while sailing by the forts where history was made. See dolphins playing and experience a Charleston sunset. Take an afternoon dolphin sail or a sunset sail; available for private charters. Combo tour available.

SpiritLine Charleston Harbor Tour 843-722-BOAT(2628) • spiritlinecruises.com Enjoy a 90-minute tour of Charleston’s harbor with 75+ points of interest narrated by City of Charleston licensed tour guides. Discounted Land & Sea Combo Tours available: include either a 90-minute Gray Line City Tour or a 60minute Old South Carriage Tour. Tours depart Aquarium Wharf in downtown Charleston and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant.

Looking for things to do in Charleston?

It’s easy with our free mobile app! Search “Charleston” in the app stores or go to travelerofcharleston.com on your smartphone.

Join the Charleston Gallery Association for a free Art Walk from 5-8 p.m. Friday, May 6. Stroll through some 40 galleries admiring paintings, sculpture and photography. charlestongalleryassociation.com

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MUSEUMS AND PARKS

Adventure Sightseeing

Audubon Center at Beidler Forest

AdventureSightseeing.com • 843-762-0088 “See it all” with Adventure Sightseeing.

Live narrated by the most experienced and professional guides! Board our buses from the Charleston Visitor Center or let us pick you up.

We offer hotel pick up and drop off for a nominal fee. Fantastic combo tours available with house tours, harbor tours and more.

336 Sanctuary Rd. • 336 Sanctuary Rd. 843-462-2150 • beidlerforest.com Francis Beidler Forest contains the largest stand of virgin bald cypress and tupelo gum swamp forest left in the world. See 1,000-yearold trees and native wildlife; walk the 1.75-mile boardwalk into the swamp. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m-5 p.m. Harleyville, S.C.

Gray Line of Charleston

Caw Caw Interpretive Center

graylineofcharleston.com • 843-722-4444 Explore 300 years of history with experienced, licensed tour guides onboard our mini-buses.

Gray Line offers a comprehensive tour of Charleston’s Historic District with 100+ points of interest and a stop at Charleston’s Battery.

Take our 90 minute tour or add a visit to a fully restored antebellum home. Land & Sea Combo includes either a visit to Fort Sumter or a 90-minute tour of the harbor. Tours depart every 30 minutes from the Charleston Visitor’s Center, 375 Meeting St. Free hotel pickup in historic district.

5200 Savannah Hwy • Ravenel, SC 29470 843-889-8898 charlestoncountyparks.com/cawcaw Explore colonial era rice plantations and a principle site of the 1739 Stono Rebellion, seven miles of walking trails and boardwalks, guided bird walks, wildlife preserve, butterfly garden and more.

City of North Charleston 843-554-5700 • northcharleston.org North Charleston is a lively center of hospitality.

There’s plenty to see and do from waterfront parks, art galleries and gardens to historical sites, museums and shopping centers. Book a tee time for golf, dine at a local restaurant or buy tickets for a show.

april-june 2016 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 23

SEE + DO

MOTORIZED LAND TOURS

SEE + DO

MUSEUMS AND PARKS

MUSEUMS AND PARKS

Fort Sumter Tours

North Charleston/American LaFrance Fire Museum

843-722-BOAT(2628) • fortsumtertours.com Walk in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers as you visit this National Historic Site. Cost includes tour of Charleston harbor onboard the boat plus an hour to explore the fort. The National Park Service maintains the Civil War era fortifications as well as restrooms, a gift shop and the Fort Sumter Museum. Fort Sumter Tours is an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service and the only tour that stops at historic Fort Sumter. Tours depart Liberty Square in downtown Charleston (handicapped accessible) and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road • Mount Pleasant (Map: O:2) • 843-884-2727 • patriotspoint.org Home to the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, WWII's Fighting Lady. Museum includes the destroyer USS Laffey, the submarine USS Clamagore, a re-creation of a Vietnam Naval Support Base, 28 historic military aircraft, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s Museum. Free map for self-guided tours.

4975 Centre Point Dr • North Charleston (Map: KK:5) • 843-740-5550 northcharlestonfiremuseum.org The Fire Museum, located adjacent to Tanger Outlet Center, is home to the largest collection of fully restored American LaFrance fire trucks and antique fire equipment in the country. It is a wonderful museum for the firefighter in all of us. Great demonstration for kids and people of all ages.

South Carolina Aquarium 100 Aquarium Wharf • Charleston 843-720-1990 • scaquarium.org The South Carolina Aquarium is home to more than 5,000 animals found across the state.

Explore 385,000-gallon Great Ocean Tank or enjoy a movie in the interactive 4-D movie theater. Journey from the mountains to the sea and find family fun around every corner.

Check out the new Traveler TV with videos highlighting all the fun things to do in Charleston: travelerofcharleston.com/videos.

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SEE + DO

MUSEUMS AND PARKS Town of Summerville

Photo: Jennifer Hitchcock

Visitor Center: 402 Main St., Summerville (see maps) • With over 700 homes and buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, the city is known for its historic character.

A charming downtown is a must visit along with the “Sweet Tea Trail.”

One of the South’s great novelists, Pat Conroy, passed away on March 4, 2016, not long after announcing he’d been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Traveler of Charleston’s Facebook fans weighed in on some of their favorite Conroy novels, including “Beach Music,” “The Water is Wide,” “The Great Santini,” The Prince of Tides” and “South of Broad.” One person said, "His description of the Lowcountry would allow you to smell the salt & pluff mud and make you feel the beauty of his beloved South.”

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Wild Blue Ropes 1595 Highland Ave • James Island (area map) 843-5024066 • wildblueropes.com If you’re looking for a something-to-writehome-about-holy-cow-I-can’t-believe-I-just-didthat adventure, you’ve come to the right place.

An aerial ropes course with 70+ challenge features reaching 35 feet above the ground.

Designed at 3 levels of difficulty that’s fun for the whole family. Imagine a jungle gym suspended 35 feet in the air.

Founded in 1770, the College of Charleston located in the heart of historic Charleston is a public liberal arts and sciences university. The college has more than 10,000 undergraduates and about 1,200 graduate students from around the world.

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SEE + DO

PLANTATIONS

PLANTATIONS

Boone Hall Plantation

McLeod Plantation Historic Site

1235 Long Point Road • Mount Pleasant (Map: L:4) • 843-884-4371 boonehallplantation.com • One of America’s oldest plantations with more than 320 years of history. Located 8 miles north of Charleston.

The “Avenue of Oaks,” nine original slave cabins, house tours and shows included in admission.

Mon.-Sat. 8:30 a.m.-6:30p.m.; Sun. 1-5 p.m.

325 Country Club Dr. • Charleston • (Area Map) 843-795-4386 • Hours: Tues - Sun 9 am - 4 pmcharlestoncountryparks.com Established in 1851, McLeod Plantation has borne witness to some of the most significant periods of Charleston’s - and our nations history. Today it is an important 37-acre Gullah/Geechee heritage site that has been carefully preserved in recognition of its cultural and historical significance.

Drayton Hall 3380 Ashley River Road (Highway 61) Charleston • (area map) • 843-769-2600 draytonhall.org • Drayton Hall (circa 1738) is the oldest unrestored plantation house in America open to the public. Admission includes tours river and marsh walks, the African-American cemetery and artisaninspired Museum Shop.

Middleton Place National Historic Landmark • 4300 Ashley River Road (Highway 61) • Charleston • (area map) 843-556-6020 • middletonplace.org • An 18th-century rice plantation and National Historic Landmark comprising 65 acres of America’s oldest landscaped gardens. See the house museum, craftspeople in the stable yards or take an African-American focus tour.

Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

.

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TRANSPORTATION Charleston Water Taxi Downtown: Maritime Center • 10 Wharfside St. (Map: K:5/6) • Mount Pleasant: Charleston Harbor Marina at Patriots Point • (Map: O:2) Waterfront Park Pier • (Map J:8) • 843-330-2989 charlestonwatertaxi.com The water taxi runs on a continuous loop around Charleston Harbor between Patriots Point (USS Yorktown) and downtown Charleston with pickup/drop-off points at the Maritime Center and Waterfront Park.

SEE + DO

WALKING TOURS Bulldog Tours 18 Anson St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7) 843-722-TOUR • bulldogtours.com As seen on the Travel Channel’s “America’s Most Haunted Places,” this walking tour company will have you exhilarated and entertained. Choose from four tours: Ghost & Graveyard, The Dark Side of Charleston, Ghost Dungeon and Haunted Jail Tour.

Charleston Strolls Walk With History Mills House Hotel (corner of Meeting & Queen) 18 Anson St. • Charleston (Map H:7) 843-722-8687 • charlestonstrolls.com charlestonstrolls.com • Featured in The New York Times, this two-hour tour is the best way to see Charleston’s Historic District. Famous landmarks, historic highlights, antebellum mansions, quaint alleys and hidden gardens.

Everyday at 10 a.m. Requires reservation.

Culinary Tours Of Charleston 18 Anson St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7) 843-727-1100 • culinarytoursofcharleston.com Walk, talk and taste your way through Charleston while experiencing history through Lowcountry cuisine. Daily tasting tours introduce guests to tasty bites at many great restaurants. Go behind the scenes and visit with chefs, bakers, artisan food producers, chocolatiers and specialty shops.

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SEE + DO photo: City of Charleston

hop local during your Charleston vacation. Local markets are a great place to find locally made gifts and crafts, tasty eats and you get a true sense of the local community.

S

Mount Pleasant Farmers Market Each Tuesday from 3:30 p.m. until dusk beginning April 5 at the Farmers Market Pavilion on Coleman Boulevard. comeonovermp.com

Charleston Farmers Market Each Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning April 9 in Marion Square, downtown Charleston. Open Sundays during Piccolo Spoleto Festival (May 29, June 5, June 12). The market features local produce, plants, herbs and cut flowers as well as breakfast and lunch vendors, live entertainment and an assortment of juried arts and crafts from local artisans. charlestonfarmersmarket.com

Summerville Farmers Market Each Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. beginning April 9 in the First Citizens parking lot adjacent to Summerville Town Hall. summervillesc.gov Sunday Brunch Farmers Market Local farmers and artists display their goods each Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1977 Maybank Highway on James Island. sundaybrunchfarmersmarket.com

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Photo: Charlotte Caldwell

SEE + DO

The Friends of Drayton Hall is hosting the Drayton Hall Distinguished Speakers Series this year. A number of respected historians, archaeologists and curators are on the schedule, providing thought-provoking presentations related to America’s history and culture. Speakers also will highlight the connections of Charleston and Drayton Hall to their research interests and answer questions from the audience. For a complete schedule, visit draytonhall.org.

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SEE + DO Photo: Holly Fisher

In January 2016, Mayor Joe Riley left office after leading Charleston for 40 years. To honor his service, Waterfront Park was renamed to Riley Waterfront Park. Riley was instrumental in making that muchvisited park a reality. The Charleston City Council resolution noted, Waterfront Park, a magniďŹ cent public space at the water’s edge, symbolizes Riley's dedication to the pursuit of excellence and beauty and his untiring zeal to achieve both for the heritage and enjoyment of all.

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SEE + DO

WALKING TOURS Yorktown Ghost Tours 40 Patriots Point Road • Mount Pleasant (Map: O:2) • 843-277-0577 yorktownghosttours.com • Guided tour explores the unexplained mysteries of this WWII aircraft carrier. Hear stories of sacrifice and devastation as this tour ventures into areas normally restricted to the public.

Watch the cadets at The Citadel conduct a dress parade. At various times throughout the year, the cadets parade the grounds, also using the time to present awards and recognize notable individuals. Free and open to the public; citadel.edu/root/paradeschedule.

Looking for things to do in Charleston?

It’s easy with our free mobile app! Search “Charleston” in the app stores or go to travelerofcharleston.com on your smartphone.

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SEE + DO april-june april-june2016 2016 TRAVELER TRAVELER ofCharleston.com ofCharleston.com 35 3

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SEE + DO 38 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com april-june 2016

Your Charleston Springtime Bucket List

By Holly Fisher

The Charleston area has so many attractions, activities, outdoor amenities and events it can be tough to narrow down your choices. Let’s prioritize. We’ve created a lineup of springtime items for your own Charleston bucket list.

Let us know which ones you do and what you would add to the list by sharing on social media with #chsbucketlist.

Beach relaxin’

Arts abound

Local goodness

Battery views

What’s better than that first springtime trip to the beach? Nothing beats kicking off your shoes and racing across the warm sand to dip your toes in the water. Visit one of Charleston’s area beaches for fun in the sun: Isle of Palms, Kiawah Island, Sullivan’s Island or Folly Beach.

With more than 500 events across 17 days, you’re sure to find an event you love at Piccolo Spoleto. This cultural celebration highlights plenty of local talent in events all around the city – many of which are free or low cost.

Events are May 27 to June 12; piccolospoleto.com.

Marion Square is abuzz with activity on Saturdays as shoppers head to the Charleston Farmers Market for local produce and veggies, food vendors and a wide selection of arts and crafts perfect for souvenirs and gifts.

For an early morning stroll or an afternoon sightseeing trip, don’t miss the Battery, a seawall along the southern Charleston peninsula. Catch a glimpse of Fort Sumter and sunset views over the water. For more history, stop off at the Edmondston-Alston House, a house museum at 21 East Battery. Take a guided tour of this 1820s mansion with its collection of historic heirlooms.

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Wide open

Military museum

Admire the Angel Oak, a majestic oak tree thought to be one of the oldest living things east of the Mississippi River.

For centuries, the Angel Oak has grown up to 65 feet and has a canopy of branches spanning 17,000 square feet.

Sitting stately on the Mount Pleasant side of the Charleston harbor is the USS Yorktown, the 10th aircraft carrier to serve in the U.S. Navy in the 1940s. Tour the ship and take in the beautiful views of Charleston from the flight deck. Tour the Congressional Medal of Honor Museum and the Vietnam Experience Exhibit.

Shop the square Summerville’s picturesque town square is ideal for a day of shopping and lunch.

With a small town feel, the area has plenty of locally owned boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops. On the third Thursday of each month, stores stay open late.

Drinks with a view Kick back with a cocktail and take in the Charleston skyline from one of the city’s rooftop bars, including the Rooftop Cocktail Bar at the Vendue Inn, Pavilion Bar or Stars Rooftop & Grill Room – all located in the heart of downtown Charleston.

Walk in history Take one of the many available walking tours along the cobblestone streets of downtown Charleston. You’ll get plenty of history – and maybe even a little folklore – along with the opportunity to ask questions, take photos and get up and close personal with the Holy City.

Swing a spell Pick a warm spring evening and watch the sunset from the bench swings at Waterfront Park, one of the city’s most inviting public spaces with its fountains, pier, greenspace and amazing views of the Charleston harbor.

Watch closely and you just might see some dolphins at play. april-june 2016 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 41

Shop + Savor Charleston was founded in the late 1600s as a port city, and it has remained a thriving place to buy goods ever since. Buy local and enjoy the rewards.

Shop King Street On the second Sunday of each month, the street is closed so visitors and locals can enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment.

WHETHER YOU’RE SHOPPING FOR SOUVENIRS, A DRESS FOR DINNER OR A BOX OF BENNE WAFERS, YOU’LL FIND JUST WHAT YOU WANT IN THE CITY’S MANY RETAIL OUTLETS. The Charleston peninsula has boutiques, national retailers and a market full of Southern charm.

SHOPPING

Dacuba’s Fine Jewelry

Low Country Harley-Davidson

84 N. Market St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7/8) 843-853-0103 • dacubasjewelry.citymax.com Nestled in the heart of Charleston, Dacuba’s is a unique fine jewelry store with a wonderful selection of sterling silver and 14kt gold jewelry.

Its classic Charleston “Southern Gate” collection is fashioned after the wrought-iron work seen throughout this historical city.

4707 Dorchester Rd. • North Charleston (Map LL:5) • 843-554-1847 • Harley Shop 1580 Old Trolley Rd. • Summerville (Map DD:2) lowcountryharley.com Operating in Charleston since 1979, Low Country Harley-Davidson is where you'll find new and pre-owned Harley's, apparel, collectibles, novelties and tees. Mention their ad to receive a free gift!

Doll Clothes Factory 129 Market St. • Charleston (Map G:7) 843-722-5299 • dollclothesfactory.com The largest & finest collection of complete doll outfits, shoes, glasses and all accessories.

Customized doll with matching eye color, hair style, or ethnic preference for a very lucky recipient. Mention “Traveler of Charleston” to receive discounts and free ear piercing for dolls!

Nice Ice Fine Jewelry 145 Market St. • Charleston • (Map: G:7) 843-577-7029 • Since 1974 they have been providing Charleston and visitors with the most exquisite and unique jewelry. Designers such as Rudolf Friedman, Judith Ripka, Slane & Slane, Jude Frances, Charriol and Nanis.

Terrace Oaks Antique Mall 2037 Maybank Highway • James Island (area map) • 843-795-9689 • Mon-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. • terraceoaksantiques.com A leader in the Charleston area for multidealer antique shops since 1988. The 10,000-squarefoot, climate-controlled shop houses 90+ booths with all different tastes and styles.

When it comes to antiques, they have just about anything your heart desires.

Town of Mount Pleasant comeonovermp.com • Mount Pleasant is not your average place to visit. Filled with an array of restaurants, taverns, activities and accommodations, the vacation you’re anticipating will be more than just a trip from home; it will be an experience of indescribable magic and warmth.

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SHOP + SAVOR

SHOPPING

Shop Dine Relax

DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON Spend the day walking King Street with its clothing boutiques, shoe stores, gift shops and more. Start near Charleston Place Hotel and head toward Calhoun Street for a wide selection of local boutiques, gift shops and national retailers. If you’re in the market for rare finds, make your way down Lower King Street (south of Market Street), the city’s antique district.

On the second Sunday of each month, several blocks of King Street are closed off to vehicles, and people (and pets) flood the streets for open-air dining, music, shopping and entertainment.

The City Market stretches from Meeting to East Bay Street and is home to more than 100 vendors. Dozens of businesses and restaurants line Market Street, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs, sweetgrass baskets, art and jewelry.

After the sun sets, head to Upper King Street, which in recent years has transformed into a hip design district with a bustling nightlife. The area stretches from Calhoun up to about Mary Street and is filled with trendy clubs and bars and highend restaurants, giving the street a sort of New York City vibe.

The Cocktail Club offers a refined atmosphere with its house-made drinks and rooftop terrace or stop off at The Belmont for a scotch and a cheese and charcuterie plate. Named a 2013 Best New Restaurant finalist by the James Beard Foundation, The Ordinary is a Southern seafood hall and oyster bar from Chef Mike Lata, best known for his other Charleston restaurant, FIG (Food Is Good).

SUMMERVILLE Summerville’s Town Square is filled with local boutiques and shops, including 12 antique stores, a children’s book store and one of the top 10 quilt shops in the country.

MOUNT PLEASANT ■ Mount Pleasant Towne Centre on Highway 17 North is home to national retailers, local boutiques and restaurants.

Shop at Belk and Belk Men’s Store, Copper Penny Shooz, Palmetto Moon, Hairy Winston Pet Boutique, Athleta and more. mtpleasanttownecentre.com ■ Belle Hall Shopping Center is located on Long Point Road ( just off Interstate 526). Stop by Wonder Works for a large selection of children’s toys and gifts or visit Princess of Tides for costumes and tutus. Carolina Girls carries gift items, jewelry and stationery. The Coastal Cupboard has a selection of specialty food items and cookware. shopbellehall.com After a full day of sightseeing and shopping, relax on Shem Creek – cold drink in hand and seafood platter on the table. Shem Creek’s laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to unwind while watching the shrimp boats dock in the creek and the dolphins play in the water.

NORTH CHARLESTON ■ Tanger Outlets has dozens of nationally known retailers offering apparel for adults and children, shoes, accessories, housewares and jewelry. Tanger is easily accessible from both Interstates 526 and 26. tangeroutlet.com/charleston

Share your Charleston shopping moments on our Facebook page at facebook.com/travelermag

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SHOP + SAVOR

Rainbow Row is probably one of the most photographed areas of downtown Charleston. This brightly colored stretch of 13 historic homes can be found from 83 to 107 East Bay Street (north of Tradd Street and south of Elliot Street).

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SHOP + SAVOR

Sweetgrass basket making can be traced back to West Africa, brought to the South Carolina coast by African slaves. One of the oldest art forms of African artwork in the United States, Charleston is the only place where this craft is practiced in its original form. Shop for sweetgrass baskets at the Charleston City Market on Market Street or at roadside stands along Highway 17 North in Mount Pleasant.

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Eat + Drink Charleston’s diverse culinary scene is amazing.

Innovative chefs and their dishes will dazzle the taste buds and warm the heart.

Charleston has great taste!

Meals on Wheels Charleston has some pretty delicious food trucks.

Check out facebook.com/chsfoodtruckfed for details on food truck events.

TRUST US, YOU WON’T LEAVE CHARLESTON HUNGRY. In fact you might spend half your vacation simply deciding which delectable restaurant to try next. Our city has world-class chefs cooking up plates filled with Southern goodness. Our desserts are claiming national recognition.

EAT + DRINK

FINE DINING Cru Cafe´ 18 Pinckney St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7) 843-534-2434 • crucafe.com • In an 18th-century home on Pinckney Street, Charlestonians sip mint julep tea on the porch and dine on upscale comfort food at John Zucker’s Cru Cafe. “Do it right and use the best possible ingredients” is his mantra. Lunch and dinner.

SpiritLine Dinner Cruise Departs from 40 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant • (Map: O:2) • 843-722-2628 spiritlinecruises.com • The SpiritLine Dinner Cruise aboard the Spirit of Carolina features fine cuisine prepared to order onboard, entertainment, dancing, fully stocked bar and a magnificent cruise on Charleston Harbor.

Call for reservations.

Middleton Place Restaurant 4300 Ashley River Road • Charleston (area map) • 843-556-6020 • middletonplace.org Savor Lowcountry cuisine while taking in views of America’s oldest landscaped gardens.

For lunch, visitors enjoy a three-course, prix fixe menu. Lunch served daily. Dinner guests pay no admission after 5:30 p.m. and can stroll through the gardens prior to dinner.

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EAT + DRINK

CASUAL DINING Charleston Crab House Downtown: 41 S. Market St. (Map I:7) • 843-795-1963. James Island: 145 Wappoo Creek Dr. • (Area Map) • 843-853-2900 charlestoncrabhouse.com • Serving Fresh Lowcountry seafood everyday! Indoor/patio, casual and family friendly. Visit James Island for waterfront dining or Market Street for rooftop dining. Reservations recommended.

Kevin Johnson

Chow Down Charleston Food Tours Charleston has become well known for its incredible restaurants and world-renowned chefs. The city is well represented on the list of semifinalists for the 2016 James Beard Awards.

Winners will be announced on May 2 in Chicago.

Charleston semifinalists include: • Outstanding Service – Charleston Grill • Outstanding Wine Program – FIG • Best Chef: Southeast – Jeremiah Bacon of The Macintosh and Kevin Johnson of The Grocery Making the Outstanding Chef list is Sean Brock for his Husk location in Nashville. He also has a Husk restaurant here in Charleston.

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All tours depart from: 40 Broad St. • Charleston 866-736-6343 • chowdowncharleston.com Their food tasting and historical walking tours allow you to step off the beaten path as they explore 6 different tastings showcasing local ingredients, Lowcountry classics, and the true culinary technique and genius that Charleston is famous for. See $2 off per person coupon in ad!

East Bay Deli 334 East Bay St. • Charleston • (Map: I:5) 843-216-5473 • 1120 Oakland Market Road Mount Pleasant • (Map: L:5) • 843-216-5473 9135 University Blvd. • North Charleston 843-553-7374 • 4405 Dorchester Road North Charleston • (Map: W:4) • 843-747-1235 New York-style deli using only quality products such as Thumann’s deli meats and Hebrew National deli dogs. The varied menu comes with many options: soups, chili, both hearty and heart-healthy sandwiches, wraps, giant spuds and desserts.

EAT + DRINK

CASUAL DINING

CASUAL DINING

Hyman’s Seafood

Oyster House on Market

215 Meeting St. • Charleston • (Map: G:7) 843-723-6000 • hymanseafood.com Voted No. 1 seafood restaurant in the Southeast

by Southern Living magazine nine years in a row. Lunch and dinner served daily. Parking and back entrance from Charleston Place.

No reservations; come early to avoid the wait.

See coupon in ad.

35 S. Market St. • Charleston (Map H:7) 843-723-1151 • oysterhouse.menu • Come get fresh with us! Oyster House on Market is the newest restaurant in downtown Charleston! We are a causal fine dining establishment with a focus on oysters and seafood. Open for lunch and dinner daily.

In the Kitchen with Bob Waggoner 164 Market St. • Charleston • (Map G:7) 843-619-7529 • chefbobwaggoner.com Amazing cooking classes with Chef Bob, an award winning chef, who will teach you tips and techniques to build confidence in the kitchen.

Each night is a truly unique and fun dinner party with every detail carefully crafted.

Benne Wafers are a uniquely Lowcountry snack. Dating back to Colonial times, the wafers came to America from East Africa during the slave trade era. “Benne” is the Bantu word for “sesame,” which was planted throughout the South.

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DRINK + NIGHTLIFE Deep Water Vineyard 6775 Bears Bluff Rd. • Wadmalaw Island • (Area Map) • 843-559-6867 • deepwatervineyard.com Open: Tue - Sat 10 am - 5 pm After indulging in a tasting at Charleston's only winery, stay and relax with us - we have many animals, a garden, outdoor games, and 50 acres to explore. It’s a full day of fun for the whole family.

Republic Garden Lounge 462 King St. • Charleston • (Map G:4) 843-724-7400 • republicreign.com Premium, innovative lounge and nightlife setting for every day enjoyment or any special occasion located in the heart of Charleston’s upper King Street district. A modern venue setting the Gold Standard in hospitality through great food, great drinks, luxurious surroundings and exceptional personalized service.

EAT + DRINK

Dinner with a View The Holy City skyline is the perfect complement to your cocktail or dinner.

Visit one of these rooftop bars to relax while taking in the blue skies, sunset or nighttime stars over Charleston.

Charleston Crab House at 41 S. Market St., Charleston. Enjoy happy hour specials 4-7 p.m. Monday to Friday | charlestoncrabhouse.com Pavilion Bar is located at the Market Pavilion Hotel, 225 East Bay St., Charleston.

Open daily 11:30 a.m. to midnight | marketpavilion.com Rooftop Cocktail Bar at the Vendue Inn is open daily for lunch and dinner at 19 Venue Range, Charleston | vendueinn.com/rooftop-bar Stars Rooftop & Grill Room offers a 360-degree view of downtown Charleston at 495 King St., Charleston. Rooftop bar open daily | starsrestaurant.com The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits is located in The Restoration hotel at 75 Wentworth St., Charleston. Open daily 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. | therestorationhotel.com

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EAT + DRINK

Five Charleston Freebies Charleston has so much to do and see you just might need a vacation from your vacation! Add these activities to your sightseeing list. As a bonus, all are free or low cost.

1. Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site’s well preserved archaeological remains give visitors an up close glimpse into the early history of colonial Carolina. (Admission: $2/adults; free for ages 15 and under | southcarolinaparks.com) 2. South Carolina’s Palmetto Trail is the state’s largest bicycle and pedestrian project that runs from the sea to the mountains. Locally, hike the 7-mile Awendaw Passage accessible in the Francis Marion Forest. (Daily parking: $5 | palmettoconservation.org) 3. Stop at the Avery Research Center at the College of Charleston to view the collection of items that highlight the African-American history and culture in the South Carolina Lowcountry. (Open Monday-Friday | avery.cofc.edu) 4. Summerville’s town square is a picturesque downtown lined with boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and antique stories. Go window shopping before stopping at Guerin’s Pharmacy – the oldest pharmacy in South Carolina – for an old-fashioned ice cream float.

5. Riverfront Park sits on the bank of the Cooper River in North Charleston. Stop by and see the Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial honoring the many military personnel and civilians who served our country and the Charleston region at the former Charleston Navy Base.

Be sure to visit the Traveler of Charleston Blog for more free and low-cost things to do around Charleston: travelerofcharleston.com/blog

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EAT + DRINK

Charleston Recipe OLD-FASHIONED PRALINE COOKIES Yield: 2 ½ dozen Ingredients 3 tablespoons butter 1 cup brown sugar 1 egg, well beaten 1 cup pecan halves

Instructions Melt butter and blend in sugar, add egg, nuts, flour, vanilla and mix well. Prepare a well-greased heavy cookie sheet. Drop 1/2 teaspoon of batter for each cookie, placing them 5 inches apart. Bake about 10 minutes in a moderate oven, then loosen edges of each cookie with wide spatula and lift onto wire cake rack to cool and crisp.

Recipe reprinted with permission from the Junior League of Charleston’s Charleston Receipts (The Junior League of Charleston, South Carolina, 1950).

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Charleston Area Events april – june 2016

Strawberry Festival

APRIL Through Weeki Wachee Mermaids – Visiting the South Carolina Aquarium from Florida, three 4/3 mermaids will swim among hundreds of animals in the Great Ocean tank, performing a choreographed routine to musical numbers. Shows are 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. (included in admission). scaquarium.org | 843-579-8518 Through Festival of Houses and Gardens – Explore the city’s historic district in a series of 4/24 tours showcasing Charleston’s distinctive architecture, history, gardens and culture.

A number of special events are also part of this springtime event, including morning history walks, Circa 1886 Wine Tastings, Mimosas at Middleton Place and Harbor of History Boat Cruises. historiccharleston.org | 843-722-3405 1-3

Flowertown Festival – The Town of Summerville celebrates spring with this annual festival with more than 200 jury selected artists and their wares, food from local restaurants, rides and activities for children and more – all in Azalea Park awash in spring color. flowertownfestival.org | 843-871-9622

2

Cooper River Bridge Run – Thousands of runners and walkers make their way across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge spanning the Cooper River for one of the largest 10K races in the world. bridgerun.com | 843-856-1949

2-10

Volvo Car Open – Formerly the Family Circle Cup, this is the largest women’s only tennis tournament in the world. Among the players at the Daniel Island tournament are Sloane Stephens, Eugenie Bouchard, Angelique Kerber, Venus Williams, Belinda Bencic, Lucie Safarova, Madison Keys and Andrea Petkovic. volvocaropen.com 800-677-2293

3

Lowcountry Cajun Festival – Louisiana comes to the Lowcountry for a full day of Zydeco music, Cajun and Creole foods plus kids’ activities, live music and a crawfish-eating contest. Event is noon to 6 p.m. at James Island County Park. ccprc.com | 843-795-4386

8

Kiawah Island Art and House Tour – Get a rare glimpse into the art and architecture of several private homes on Kiawah Island. Five homes in the gated community will be open for public viewing, each with their own unique style. kiawahartsetc.org

8-10

World Grits Festival – Small town St. George welcomes visitors to enjoy all things grits. Get ready to eat grits, buy grits, learn how grits are made and even dive into a vat of grits for the Grits Rolling Contest. worldgritsfestival.com

10

Blues by the Sea – Head to Freshfields Village on Kiawah Island for a free, outdoor concert featuring national blues artists; event is 2:30-7 p.m. freshfieldsvillage.com 843-762-9125

15-17

Kiawah Island Motoring Retreat – More than 100 rare and antique automobiles will compete for awards. There’s also an oyster roast, wine dinner, live music, seminars and a scenic motoring tours. kiawahconcours.com | 843-277-0271

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21-24

The Lowcountry Strawberry Festival at Boone Hall Plantation – Rides, a petting zoo, pig races, acrobatic dog show, a playground and strawberry pie-eating contests are all part of this family friendly event. Plus, there are plenty of strawberries ripe for the pickin' in the U-Pick Fields. boonehallplantation.com

22 to 5/8 “Lend Me a Tenor” – It’s the biggest night in the history of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company. Unfortunately, renowned tenor Tito Morelli – about to make his North American premiere – is incapacitated by a series of calamities and someone is forced to impersonate him. The Footlight Players, 20 Queen St. footlightplayers.net 843-722-4487 23-24

Hands-on Rice Planting – Join a costumed interpreter and learn how Carolina Gold rice was planted on Lowcountry plantations and about the African origins of rice and its cultivation in South Carolina in the 18th and 19th centuries. 10 a.m. to noon & 1-3 p.m. middletonplace.org | 843-556-6020

24

Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival – Pay tribute to Mount Pleasant’s local shrimping and fishing industry at this event with a boat parade, live music, craft show and lots of free activities at Memorial Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant. comeonovermp.com

29 to 5/7

North Charleston Arts Festival – Concerts, street dances, fine art, photography, film, public art installations, lectures, workshops, antique show, kids' activities and fireworks finale. northcharlestonartsfest.com | 843-740-5854

MAY 1

Old Village Mount Pleasant Home, Garden and Art Tour – Stroll the Old Village of Mount Pleasant, visiting six properties and sampling food from local chefs while viewing local art work and watching plein air artists at work. tinyurl.com/qjnwkbj 843-764-2323

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

brewery/distillery article.

For more Charleston area events, stop by our online calendar at travelerofcharleston.com/events.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Charleston RiverDogs 6-8

Greek Festival – Enjoy Greek food, music, folk dance performances, cultural exhibits and tours of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 30 Race St., Charleston. charlestongreekfestival.com | 843-577-2063

7

Lowcountry Shrimp Festival – Join the Town of McClellanville for a celebration of shrimp and a blessing of the fleet at the Robert E. Ashley Boat Landing on Jeremy Creek. Live music, local shrimp, frogmore stew, barbecue, hot dogs and beer plus more than 45 local artisans and children's play area. lowcountryshrimpfestival.com

7

Sheep Shearing at Middleton Place – The flock will be shorn between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and interpreters will demonstrate shearing as it was done in the past using steel-bladed hand shears. middletonplace.org | 843-556-6020

27 to 6/12

Piccolo Spoleto – With more than 500 arts and cultural events, Piccolo Spoleto complements the international scope of Spoleto Festival USA with dozens of inexpensive programs around the area, including visual arts exhibits, classical music, jazz, dance, theatre, poetry readings, children’s activities, choral music, ethnic cultural presentations, crafts and film. piccolospoleto.com | 843-724-7305

27 to 6/12

Spoleto Festival USA – Considered a premier international performing arts festival, this annual event fills Charleston historic theaters, churches and outdoor spaces with dozens of performances by world-renowned artists and performers in opera, theater, dance, chamber, symphonic, choral, bluegrass and jazz music. spoletousa.org 843-579-3100

JUNE 3-19

“Oliver! The Musical” – Orphaned Oliver Twist goes from mistreatment in the London workhouses to falling in with a gang of pickpockets before finally finding a home in Lionel Bart's musical adaptation of the Charles Dickens novel. Flowertown Players, 133 S. Main St. in Summerville. flowertownplayers.org | 843-875-9251

4

Winestock Music Festival at Deep Water Vineyard – Woodstock with a wine twist, this event includes wines and Firefly spirit tastings, local food vendors, a “Best Hippie” costume contest and more. deepwatervineyard.com | 843-559-6867

4

The Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival – Head to Mount Pleasant’s Waterfront Park to experience the Gullah Geechee people's history and culture through the sounds of music, Gullah storytelling and African drummers and dancers. Children’s activities available, including puppet shows, face painting, jump castles. Lowcountry restaurants will have Gullah cuisine available for purchase. sweetgrassfestival.org 843-345-7849

5, 24

Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series – This evening event features old school roots reggae with a new school attitude at James Island County Park. ccprc.com

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ONGOING EVENTS Blues & BBQ Harbor Cruise – Cruise the Charleston harbor enjoying a barbecue buffet, live blues music and cash bar. Thursdays through Oct. 27. charlestonharbortours.com 843-722-1112 Weekend Wine-Down is from noon to 4 p.m. each Saturday at Deep Water Vineyard. Tastings, food, music and the relaxing atmosphere of the vineyards. deepwatervineyard.com 843-559-6867 Charleston RiverDogs – Season opens April 7 with games all summer. Take in some minor league baseball at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park on the banks of the Ashley River in downtown Charleston. Check the website for complete schedule and special promotions. riverdogs.com Charles Towne Landing special events – The first Saturday is musket demonstrations. The second Saturday is a monthly theme (April is Animal Forest; May is Maritime History; June is Colonial Foodways). The third Saturday is cannon demonstrations. charlestownelanding.travel 843-852-4200 Jazz Brunch Riverboat Cruises – These events feature live jazz music, a gourmet brunch buffet and a cruise on The Carolina Queen around the Charleston harbor. Spring dates are 4/24, 5/8, 5/22, 6/5 and 6/19. charlestonharbortours.com | 843-722-1112 The Sound of Charleston – Experience the unique sounds that define Charleston's rich musical heritage: gospel, Gershwin, music of the Civil War, light classics and jazz, all presented by professional artists in a live, 75-minute concert at Circular Congregational Church. Check website for select dates: soundofcharleston.com | 843-270-4903 “Sherlock Holmes and the Charleston History Mystery” – A hauntingly historical, hysterical whodunit for fans of the Master Sleuth at the Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre. charlestonmysteries.com | 843-937-6453 “Captain Blackbeard’s Sing-Off Smackdown” – A witty, wacky, slapstick mystery where the only solution is to join ranks with dead pirates from Charleston’s history in an all-out battle for sing-a-long supremacy at the Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre. charlestonmysteries.com | 843-937-6453 Evenings in the Market – Each Friday and Saturday night through December, this street fair-style event showcases local artists, food vendors and designers the Historic Charleston City Market. thecharlestoncitymarket.com 2nd Sunday on King Street – On the second Sunday of each month. Street is closed to vehicular traffic from Queen Street North to Calhoun Street. 2ndsundayonkingstreet.com Third Thursdays – Head to historic downtown Summerville from 5-8 p.m. every third Thursday. Shops and restaurants will be open late and some have special promotions. summervilledream.org First Friday’s On Broad Art Walk – Stroll the art galleries along Broad Street in downtown Charleston from 5-8 p.m. the first Friday of each month. charlestongalleryrow.com * Event details are subject to change. Please call ahead or check the listed website for confirmation.

brewery/distillery article.

Follow us on Twitter @Traveler_Mag and on Facebook for more Charleston events, festivals and activities.

For even more Charleston area events, check our online calendar at travelerofcharleston.com/events

april-june 2016 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 61

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

brewery/distillery article.

For more Charleston area events, stop by our online calendar at travelerofcharleston.com/events.

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Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, J:1 Battery, G:10 Charleston Museum, G:4 Charleston Place, G:7 Children’s Museum, G:4 Citadel Military College, B:1 College of Charleston, F:6 Dock Street Theater, G:8 Four Corners of Law, G:8 Gaillard Municipal Auditorium, H:6 Gibbes Museum, G:H King Street Shopping District, G-6:7 Marion Square, G:5 Market Hall & City Market, H:7 Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, H:9 Old Powder Magazine, G:8 Old Slave Mart Museum, H:8 Rainbow Row, H:9 South Carolina Aquarium, J:5 St. Philip’s Church, H:8 St. Michael’s Church, G:9 Visitor’s Center, G:4 Waterfront Park/Pineapple Fountain, I:8

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Charleston Area Map

Getting Around Some transportation options for getting around downtown Charleston and the surrounding areas.

■ WATER TAXI: Transports visitors from downtown Charleston (Aquarium Wharf or Waterfront Park) to Mount Pleasant (Patriots Point or Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina).

Taxi runs each hour; $10 for all-day pass. No reservations needed. $20 round trip.

Call 843-330-2989 for pickup. charlestonwatertaxi.com ■ BUS: The CARTA bus system has regular routes that travel to major destinations. The DASH trolley service is available free of charge if you’re traveling around downtown Charleston. ridecarta.com | 843-724-7420 ■ RICKSHAWS AND PEDICABS: Available in downtown Charleston as are taxi cabs for transportation around the Lowcountry.

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SEE + DO Adventure Sightseeing Bus Tours Angler Management Charters Audubon Center at Beidler Forest Barrier Island Eco Tours Black Fedora Comedy Theatre Boone Hall Plantation Bulldog Walking Tours Charleston Farmer's Market Charleston Harbor Tours Charleston Water Taxi Combo Tour: Boone Hall + Harbor Tour Combo Tour: Carriage + Harbor Tour Combo Tour: Ghost Walking + Harbor Tour Culinary Tours of Charleston Drayton Hall Edmondston-Alston House Fort Sumter Tours GrayLine Bus Tours Isle of Palms Marina Low Country Yacht Charters McLeod Plantation Historic Site Middleton Place Nature Adventures Outfitters North Charleston Arts Fest North Charleston Fire Museum North Charleston, City of Palmetto Carriage Works Patriots Point Maritime Museum RedFin Fishing Charters Sandlapper Water Tours South Carolina Aquarium SpiritLine Cruises Harbor Tour Summerville, Town of The Footlight Players The Reel Deal Charters The Schooner Pride Sailing Tour The Sound of Charleston Tidalwave Watersports USS Yorktown Ghost Tours Wild Blue Ropes

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SHOP + SAVOR Dacuba's Fine Jewelry Doll Clothes Factory Low Country Harley-Davidson Mount Pleasant, Town of Nice Ice Jewelry Terrace Oaks Antique Mall

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EAT + DRINK Charleston Crab House Chow Down Charleston Food Tours Cru Café Deep Water Vineyard East Bay Deli Hyman's Seafood In the Kitchen w/Chef Waggoner Middleton Place Restaurant Oyster House on Market Republic Garden & Lounge SpiritLine Dinner Cruise

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