Traveler of Charleston Mag | 2018 Spring

Best Things to Do in the Springtime

Shop Local at Farmers Markets

First-Time Visitors Guide april – june 2018

TRAVELER of Charleston

Find Amazing Things to Do in Charleston!

ATTRACTIONS TOURS DINING COUPONS EVENTS MAPS

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Contents

DEPARTMENTS 6 16 42 43 45 64 69

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

FEATURES 10

Charleston History Timeline

12

The Ultimate Guide to Springtime in Charleston

38

Charleston Area Beach Guide

40

Charleston’s Best Photo Spots

44

Charleston’s Best Photo Spots

52

Charleston Area Farmers Markets

56

Love These Landmarks

60

Charleston Area Events

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Be sure to download our free mobile app, “Exploring Charleston SC.”

12

From the Publisher e love this time of year in Charleston. The weather is warm, the flowers are blooming and outdoor events are filling our social calendars. You’ve picked a lovely time of year to visit!

In this issue, we’ve compiled our favorite springtime activities so whether you’re in the mood for history tours, family fun, arts and culture or outdoor adventure, we have the guide for you.

Be sure to check it out on Page 12.

If you enjoy supporting local vendors and farmers, visit one of the many area farmers markets. On Page 52, we have a list of markets taking place each week. It’s a great opportunity to take in some live music, grab a snack from a local food vendor and pick up some locally crafted souvenirs.

While you’re here, experience local culture, take in a world-class tennis tournament or explore downtown galleries on an art walk. Visit Page 60 for a list of some of the season’s best events and visit travelerofcharleston.com to access our online calendar of events updated daily with even more things to do.

If you need more information, download our free mobile app with maps, parking locations, public restroom listings and coupons, plus details on attractions and tours. Search “Exploring Charleston SC” in the App Store or Google Play.

Head to travelerofcharleston.com where you can purchase tickets for tours and attractions right from our website. Don’t forget to connect with us on social media – we love seeing how you’re enjoying Charleston!

Traveler of Charleston Team

TRAVELER

Publisher/Founder.................... Keith Simmons Editor........................................... Holly Fisher Writer........................................... Bailey Laskowski Graphic Designer...................... Heineman Design Circulation................................. Brian Bean Cheral McCombs Cover Photographer ............... Doug Hickok

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®

of Charleston

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

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 three children.

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 15 years 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 two 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.

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 May 30th, 2018.

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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 explore 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 the 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

1670 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

1783 City renamed “Charleston”

1718 1680

Pirate Stede Bonnet is hanged at White Point

Charles Town relocates to the peninsula; population 1,000

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1736 Dock Street Theatre opens, first building in colonial America used exclusively for theatrical performances

1770

1775-1783

College of Charleston founded

Revolutionary War; Siege of Charleston in 1780

1824

1920

Charleston Museum opens to the public (founded in 1773)

Preservation Society founded to protect historic resources

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

1864

2016

H.L. Hunley sinks U.S.S. 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 what is now the HeywardWashington 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

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Photo: Doug Hickok

The Ultimate Guide to Springtime in Charleston

BY HOLLY FISHER ell-known Southern author Pat Conroy was always so elegant in his descriptions of Charleston. In writing the foreword for “The Mayor,” a biography of former Charleston Mayor Joe Riley, Conroy expressed what so many people feel when they visit here: “There is no city on Earth quite like Charleston.”

Conroy wrote, “From the time I first came there in 1961, it’s held me in its enchanter’s power, the wordless articulation of its singularity, its withheld and magical beauty. Wandering through its streets can be dreamlike and otherworldly, its alleyways and shortcuts both fragrant and mysterious, yet as haunted as time turned in on itself.”

It’s possible the spring season in Charleston is most captivating. The city is delicious with the scent of jasmine. Azaleas are bursting forth in pink. The beach sun is warm on our face. There really is no city quite like Charleston.

So, we invite you to enjoy every moment of your visit – whether you’re learning about Civil War history, kayaking Shem Creek, relaxing on the beach or dining in a world-class restaurant. Let yourself be swept up in Charleston’s captivating spell and enjoy the many springtime activities the area has to offer.

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History If you enjoy seeing how some of Charleston’s earliest families lived, plan to visit one of several plantations to explore gardens, homes and even slave cabins for a look at life in the Lowcountry.

Boone Hall Plantation: Englishman Maj. John Boone established Boone Hall Plantation in 1681 when he started his plantation on the banks of Wampacheone Creek.

Spanning 738 acres, the planation offers tours and exhibits detailing plantation life, including black history and details on the slaves who lived at the plantation. boonehallplantation.com Drayton Hall: The 350-acre plantation served as the hub for John Drayton’s vast commercial plantation empire in the early 1750s. Over the course of his lifetime, he owned close to 100 different plantations across South Carolina and Georgia where enslaved Africans, Native Americans and their descendants grew rice and indigo. draytonhall.org Magnolia Plantation: Founded in 1676 by the Drayton family, Magnolia Plantation is home to the oldest public gardens in America. magnoliaplantation.com McLeod Plantation Historic Site: Opened in 2015, this 37-acre site provides a detailed history of the slaves who worked its cotton fields and their struggle for freedom following the Civil War. mcleodplantation.com Middleton Place: Tour America’s oldest landscaped gardens and a house museum.

Explore the stable yards, where crafts people re-create the activities of a selfsustaining Lowcountry plantation. middletonplace.org

McLeod Plantation Historic Site

Founded in 1773, The Charleston Museum, America's First Museum, has been discovering, preserving, interpreting, celebrating, and sharing ever since. The museum’s vast array of collections, exhibitions and educational programs are designed to inspire curiosity and conversation – about the South Carolina Lowcountry – and the stories that have shaped the city. charlestonmuseum.org april-june 2018 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 13

Go deep into Charleston’s roots with a visit to Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. This state park sits on a marshy point off the Ashley River on the spot where a group of English settlers landed in 1670 and established what would become the birthplace of the Carolina colony. southcarolinaparks.com The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, constructed in 1771, is where South Carolina ratified the U.S. Constitution in 1788, becoming the eighth state to join the union.

It was used as a prison by the British occupation during the Revolutionary War. oldexchange.org Confederate forces fired the first shots of the Civil War at Federal troops at Fort Sumter at 4:30 a.m. on April 12, 1861. Fort Sumter surrendered 34 hours later. Throughout the war’s duration, Fort Sumter would play an important role as Union forces spent nearly four years trying to take it back. fortsumtertours.com

Family Fun If you’ve brought the entire family to Charleston, take advantage of the many activities that get the kids off the screens and into the great outdoors.

Plan an eco-adventure tour to Capers Island, an undeveloped barrier island accessible by boat only. Collect sharks’ teeth and seashells while learning about the Lowcountry habitat and wildlife that live in these unspoiled areas.

Charleston County Parks has several parks around the Charleston area, including waterparks, a skate park, dog parks and plenty of trails for walking and biking. Waterparks are located in North Charleston, on James Island and in Mount Pleasant. They are usually open on weekends in May and then all week throughout the summer. Visit charlestoncountyparks.com for the full schedule.

Get up close and personal with birds, sea turtles, fish and reptiles at the South Carolina Aquarium. Don’t miss the Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery area of the aquarium, which walks visitors along the path of a rescued sea turtle as it moves through treatment and rehabilitation and ultimately to release back into the ocean. scaquarium.org The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry offers a variety of exhibits for young visitors, including water stations, an arts and crafts center, a medieval castle and a pirate ship for climbing (closed Mondays). explorecml.org

Outdoor/Adventure Put your climbing and balance skills to the test at Wild Blue Ropes Adventure Park, featuring 72 suspended obstacles up to 35 feet in the air. Or check out Charleston Zip Line Adventures where you can zip from a 65-foot tower through the trees, going between tree platforms, towers, three swinging bridges and a grand finale zip of 750 feet. (See Page 24-26 for park information.)

No trip to Charleston is complete without some time in the sand and surf. Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms are most popular among visitors and each provides a slightly different beach vibe.

(See our beach guide on Page 38.)

Ever wanted to try kayaking or paddleboarding? Now’s your chance. Nature Adventure Outfitters has a variety of kayaking and paddleboarding tours for all ages and experience levels.

Children's Museum of the Lowcountry 14 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com april-june 2018

Combine some Charleston history with cool water breezes and spectacular views when you book a boat tour with Charleston Harbor Tours. Climb aboard the Carolina Belle to enjoy a scenic 90-minute tour with more than 75 landmarks and points of interest. SpiritLine Cruises also provides a

Visit the first floor, including the Museum Store and Gibbes Café, for free. Purchase tickets to tour the second- and third-floor galleries. gibbesmuseum.org

Eat & Drink If you love a pint of local, craft beer, you’ve come to the right place. Charleston is home to several local breweries serving up IPA, stouts and seasonal brews. Many offer special events and brewery tours. Be sure to visit our blog for a guide to Charleston’s craft beer scene (travelerofcharleston.com/blog).

captivating history lesson as licensed tour guides narrate your trip around the Charleston harbor. (See Pages 20-22) Don’t let this good time be the one that got away. Try your hand at fishing in the Lowcountry. Most fishing charter companies supply all the bait, fishing rods and instruction so visitors of all ages and experience levels are welcome. (See Page 22 for fishing charter companies.)

Charleston Food Tours, hosted by Bulldog Tours, is the perfect way to eat your way around Charleston. Tour a chef's kitchen, take a truly sweet dessert tour or book the Savor the Flavors of Charleston Tour to learn all about the evolution of Charleston cuisine while nibbling on grits, benne wafers, Southern pralines, collard greens and Lowcountry barbecue. bulldogtours.com/food-tours

Art & Culture Charleston has a vibrant arts scene with several theaters, art galleries and cultural events. With more than 40 art galleries in the downtown Charleston area, art lovers can explore photography, painting, sculpture and more. Visit charlestongalleryassociation.com to download a map and check the schedule for art walks and upcoming gallery events.

Also, the Town of Summerville’s historic town square is home to art galleries, antiques shops and a great little quilt shop with fabrics ranging from 1800s reproductions to the latest modern designers.

The Lowcountry’s theater community is rich with productions ranging from musicals and mysteries to comedies and contemporary plays. Visit theatrecharleston.com for a list of local theater companies and upcoming productions. Plus, during Piccolo Spoleto, be sure to look for more than 500 performing, literary and visual arts events all around town from May 25 to June 10.

The Gibbes Museum of Art is home to the foremost collection of American art that incorporates the story of Charleston.

Folly Beach

Charleston Food Tours

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

ART & THEATER ACTIVITIES 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”.

N. Charleston Arts Fest May 2 - 6, 2018 • 843-740-5854 northcharlestonartsfest.com • Selected as a May Top 20 Event by the SE Tourism Society!

This annual multi-day celebration of arts and culture highlights national, regional, and local artists and performers in both performing and visual arts. Admission is free to all.

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SEE + DO

BOAT & WATER AquaSafaris 24 Patriots Point Road, A-Dock at Charleston Harbor Marina • Mount Pleasant • (Map: O:2) 843-886-8133 • aqua-safaris.com • Head out for an action-packed day of fishing, charter a luxury motor yacht for private or corporate events, sit back and watch dolphin on an affordable sunset cruise through Charleston Harbor. Offers Charleston’s largest fleet with the catamaran Palmetto Breeze.

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.

Charleston Harbor Tours Charleston Maritime Center. • 10 Wharfside St., Charleston • (Map: J:5/6) • 843-722-1112 charlestonharbortours.com • Board the Carolina Belle for Charleston’s top-rated harbor tour. This 90-minute tour is live narrated by the Captain and covers over 75 points of interest and 300 years of history. See Fort Sumter, Fort Johnson, Fort Moultrie, Castle Pinckney, The Battery, The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, dolphins, pelicans and much more! Offering great combination packages with other popular attractions saving you time and money! Fully stocked bar and snack bar with items for purchase on board. Call or go online for schedule and tickets or see our ad on page 2.

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 pick-up/ drop-off points at the Maritime Center and Waterfront Park.

Isle of Palms Marina 50 41st Ave • Isle of Palms • (Map: O:6) 843-886-0209 • iopmarina.net • Your one stop shop for all your island needs.

Book a boat tour, fishing charter, harbor or dolphin cruise or go jet-skiing, rent a boat or stop into our ship store for all your grocery and beer needs.

The Circular Congregational Church cemetery is likely the oldest English burial ground still in existence in Charleston. The earliest unmarked grave dates from 1695.

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SEE + DO

BOAT & WATER

COMBO TOURS

Palmetto Breeze

Charleston Harbor Tours & Boone Hall Plantation Combo

100 Church St. • Mount Pleasant (behind Red’s Ice House • (Map O:2) • 843-886-8133 palmettobreeze.com • Charleston's most fun boat tour featuring Margarita Monday, 2 for Tuesday, “Windsday” Red’s Sunset Cruise, 3 for Thursday Wine Tastings, Firefly Friday and Saturday Dolphin Sunset Sails.

Nature Adventures 1 Shrimpboat Ln. • Mount Pleasant (Map O:2) • 843-568-3222 kayakcharlestonsc.com Our focus is on creating experiences! Take a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour or they can be rented. Located on picturesque Shem Creek where dolphins and wildlife are all around to experience up-close.

Schooner Pride – Charleston’s Tall Ship 360 Concord St. • Charleston • (Map: J:5) 843-722-1112 • schoonerpride.com • Board this beautiful, 49 passenger sailing vessel for a unique and breathtaking excursion on Charleston Harbor. Each 2 hour sail is unique as the Pride sails with the wind and tides, but you are sure to have an experience you won’t forget.

Rated as one of the top 10 things to do in Charleston and one of the top Sunset Sails in North America, the Pride is a great way to get out on the water! Beer, wine, champagne, sodas and water available for purchase on board.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED, go online or call for tickets.

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.

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.

10 Wharfside St. • (Map J:5/6) • Boone Hall 1235 Longpoint Rd. • (Map: L:4) charlestonharbortours.com • Save time and money by booking this top rated combo tour!

Enjoy a 90 minute, live narrated Charleston Harbor Tour and admission to Boone Hall Plantation, Charleston’s most photographed and the top plantation to visit according to USA Today 10Best! May be taken on separate days.

Charleston Harbor Tours & Bulldog Tours Ghost or Walking Tour Combo Harbor Tours • 10 Wharfside St. • (Map J:5/6).

Bulldog Tours • 18 Anson St. • (Map H:7) charlestonharbortours.com• Enjoy the top rated, live narrated harbor history tour with Charleston Harbor Tours and choose from one of 3 great walking tours with Charleston’s best walking tour company! Choose from the Ghost & Graveyard Walking Tour, Haunted Jail Tour or Charleston Strolls History Tour.

Charleston Harbor Tours & Palmetto Carriage Combo Charleston Harbor Tours • Charleston Maritime Center, 10 Wharfside Street • (Map :J:5/6) Palmetto Carriage Works • Big Red Barn, 8 Guignard Street • 843-722-1112 • (Map: H:7) CharlestonHarborTours.com PalmettoCarriage.com • Join two of Charleston’s most reputable tour companies for the most popular combination tour. This is a great way to save time and money and get a great overview of the Holy City. Book tickets in advance and you can save $6 on adult tickets! You can even split the tours up over different days! Book online or call for tickets.

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.

FISHING CHARTERS Reel Deal Charters

On most Fridays, The Citadel cadets parade the grounds, sometimes presenting awards and recognizing notable individuals. Schedule: citadel.edu/root/parade-schedule

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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!

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SEE + DO

MOTORIZED LAND TOURS

MUSEUMS AND PARKS

Adventure Sightseeing

Audubon Center at Beidler Forest

AdventureSightseeing.com • 843-762-0088 “See it All” with Charleston’s top-rated bus tour company. With over 30 years of experience offering guided tours of Charleston, Adventure Sightseeing is a must do when visiting. 90minute city tours and plantation tours. The most available combination tours offer great savings on the most popular tours and activities. Departing from the Charleston Visitor’s Center. Free downtown hotel pick up available too!

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-year-old 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 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.

The Shag has been the official state dance since 1984. It's thought to have started in the 1920s in Myrtle Beach.

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Caw Caw Interpretive Center 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.

Charleston County Water Parks Whirlin' Waters: 888 University Blvd. • North Charleston • Splash Zone: 871 Riverland Dr. James Island • Splash Island: 444 Needlebrush Pkwy. • Mt. Pleasant | 843-795-4386 • Open Weekends only staring 5/6. Daily starting 5/29.

Weekends only 8/12 • Labor Day. • ccprc.com Stay cool and have fun and choose between three area water parks! Whirlin' Waters is the largest park covering 15-acres with slides, a lazy river, wave pool and large kids area. Next is Splash Zone with a good mix for all ages, and Splash Island is best for toddlers and pre-teen children.

SEE + DO

MUSEUMS AND PARKS Charleston Museum 360 Meeting St. • Charleston • (Map: G:4) 843-722-2996 • charlestonmuseum.org Visit America’s First Museum! The Charleston Museum explores the story of Charleston and the Lowcountry. Whether you enjoy early s outhern culture, decorative arts, military history, or natural history, The Charleston Museum has something for everyone.

Charleston Zip Line Adventures 1152 Guerins Bridge Rd. • Awendaw • (Map K:6) 843-928-3947 charlestonziplineadventures.com The only zip line canopy tour in the Charleston area! Canopy Tour: Fly through the trees on this guided tour. Kids Zip Line Tour: For beginners or ages 5-13. Climbing Wall: 60’ climbing wall with three difficulty levels. Reservations recommended. Enter or mention code TRVCHS10 for $10 off!

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.

Fort Sumter Tours 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

North Charleston/American LaFrance Fire Museum 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.

Charleston is for romance! The city was named among “America’s Most Romantic Cities” by Travel + Leisure, as well as the “World’s Most Romantic Cities” by Food & Wine.

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SEE + DO 28 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com april-june 2018

SEE + DO

MUSEUMS AND PARKS

MUSEUMS AND PARKS

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Wild Blue Ropes

40 Patriots Point Rd. • Mount Pleasant (Map: O:2) • 843-884-2727 • patriotspoint.org Walk in the steps of heroes at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, home of the USS Yorktown, and SC’s most unique attraction. With fresh exhibits, educational programming and other one-of-a-kind events, Patriots Point is the only Charleston-area historic attraction that offers exciting new experiences all year long.

See ad for $3 off coupon.

1595 Highland Ave • James Island (area map) 843-5024066 • wildblueropes.com Experience Charleston’s premier High Climbing Ropes & Challenge Course Adventure – featuring 72 suspended obstacles – up to 35 ft. in the air! 4 difficulty levels – ranging from beginner to expert. Conquer high and low elements expertly designed for maximum thrills! Located less than 10 minutes from Downtown Charleston.

South Carolina Aquarium 100 Aquarium Wharf • Charleston 843-720-1990 • scaquarium.org Walk in the steps of heroes at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, home of the USS Yorktown, and SC’s most unique attraction.

With fresh exhibits, educational programming and other one-of-a-kind events, Patriots Point is the only Charleston-area historic attraction that offers exciting new experiences all year long.

See ad for $3 off coupon.

Visit Charleston’s historic City Hall (80 Broad St.), constructed in the early 1800s. Also, the picturesque Washington Square Park is located

by City Hall and features beautiful architecture, memorials and ironwork.

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Last fall, Charleston was named the No. 1 city in the United States by Condè Nast Traveler in its 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards. Charleston has been the top-voted city for seven years in a row.

SEE + DO

PLANTATIONS

TRANSPORTATION

Boone Hall Plantation

Charleston Water Taxi

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.

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 pick-up/ drop-off points at the Maritime Center and Waterfront Park.

McLeod Plantation Historic Site 325 Country Club Dr. • Charleston • (Area Map) 843-795-4386 • Hours: Tues - Sun 9 am - 4 pm charlestoncountryparks.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.

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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Sweetgrass basket making can be traced back to West Africa, brought to the S.C. coast by African slaves.

Charleston is the only place where this craft is practiced in its original form.

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 Food Tours 18 Anson St. • Charleston • (Map: H:7) 843-727-1100 • charlestonfoodtours.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.

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.

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SEE + DO

WALKING TOURS Taste of the Lowcountry Tour & Cooking Demonstration Departs from Mercantile and Mash • 701 East Bay St. • Charleston • (Map H:2) • 843.727.1100 charlestonfoodtours.com Join us as we take an exclusive look at Charleston’s gourmet food emporium followed by a cooking demonstration at the Culinary Institute of Charleston! The tour starts with learning the history of Lowcountry cuisine while tasting some locally made delicacies in a local historical landmark. The finale is a cooking demonstration by an award winning chef that prepares a mouthwatering dish to be shared with all the participants.

USS Yorktown Ghost Tours 40 Patriots Pt. Rd. • (Map O:2) yorktownghosttours.com Walk in the steps of Heros where many gave their all and a few may still linger on this legendary WWII aircraft carrier. Featured on Syfy Channel’s “Ghost Hunters?.

Stop by the Red Barn at Palmetto Carriage Works, 8 Guignard St., to visit the horses, mules and other animals. There’s a fee for tours, but no charge to visit the barn.

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Charleston Area Beach Guide FOLLY BEACH This barrier island beach has a laid-back atmosphere and is often frequented by locals and surfers – and it’s just a short drive from the heart of downtown Charleston. Note, a beach preservation project is underway; check cityoffollybeach.com for additional information on how this might impact your visit.

WHERE TO PARK: Limited parking is available at Folly Beach County Park (1100 W. Ashley Ave.), so plan to arrive early to secure a spot. Parking fees vary by season. The most you'll pay is $10 per vehicle Monday to Friday and $15 on Saturday and Sunday.

RULES TO KNOW: Alcohol is not allowed on Folly Beach. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Sept. 30. At other times, dogs much be leashed; pick up after your pet. Surfing without a leash is prohibited. Between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. May 15 to Sept. 15, surfing is not allowed from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West (known as the swimming zone).

ISLE OF PALMS Located a just a few minutes from Mount Pleasant, the Isle of Palms has plenty of amenities and is a great family friendly beach option. The area of Ocean Boulevard from 10th Avenue to 14th Avenue is set aside for beachgoers and is known as “Front Beach.”

WHERE TO PARK: Parking is regulated along the public rights-of-way from May 15 through Sept. 15 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. In the on-street Beach Parking Zones, parking is free of charge. Adjacent residential areas would become “resident parking only.” Paid parking is available in the Municipal Parking Lots on Pavilion Drive, at Isle of Palms County Park and on Ocean Boulevard between 10th and 14th avenues.

RULES TO KNOW: Alcohol is not allowed on the beach. Dogs are allowed off leash on the beach from 5-9 a.m. April 1 to Sept. 14 and from 4 p.m. to 10 a.m. Sept. 15 to March 31. At all other times, dogs must be on a leash – even in the water. More info and complete beach rules: iop.net

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND The Town of Sullivan’s Island, a barrier island north of the Charleston harbor, has only about 2,000 residents. The beach has few short-term rentals and no hotels so plan a day trip to this beach.

WHERE TO PARK: Parking can be a problem if you arrive after 10 a.m. There are no public parking lots; street parking only on one side of the street. Be sure to obey posted signs and don’t park in any private yards or driveways.

RULES TO KNOW: Sullivan’s Island has no public restrooms or showers and there are no lifeguards on duty. Alcohol is not permitted on the beach. All dogs visiting the island must have a dog permit and should wear the town-issued collar while on Sullivan’s Island.

Permits and collars are available at Town Hall, 2050-B Middle St.; 843-883-3198. Dogs are not allowed on the beach during certain times in the summer season. More info and complete beach rules: sullivansisland-sc.com

KIAWAH ISLAND Another of Charleston’s beautiful beaches is Kiawah Island. Much of the island and its beaches are private, but you can access a portion of public beachfront via Kiawah Beachwalker Park on the west end of the island.

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SEE + DO

Picture Perfect Capture vacation memories at the most picturesque spots in Charleston Riley Waterfront Park Riley Waterfront Park in downtown Charleston is breathtaking. Not only does it offer the perfect view of multiple historic landmarks, such as Fort Sumter and the USS Yorktown, but when the sun starts to set, you’ll be reaching for your camera to capture a shot worth framing.

Morris Island Lighthouse First illuminated in 1876, the Morris Island Lighthouse is best viewed from the northern tip of Folly Beach where the lighthouse rises from the Atlantic Ocean. If you arrive at a quiet time of day and submerge your feet in the sand, your patience will be rewarded with the perfect calm picture of this historic structure. If you’re lucky, some dolphins may even pose for your shot.

Angel Oak Located on beautiful Johns Island, the Angel Oak is one of the most respected historical sites in all of Charleston. Estimated to be around 400 years old, this tree stands at 65 feet tall and is known for its majestic spread of branches. It’s the perfect example of Mother Nature’s incredible work. Get there early to capture the perfect photo as this public park gets crowded with spectators as the day goes on.

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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.

SHOP + SAVOR

SHOPPING Dacuba’s Fine Jewelry 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.

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.

Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park is located at the base of the Ravenel Bridge in Mount Pleasant. Enjoy the large lawn, pier that stretches out into the Cooper River and nautical-themed playground. Also stop by the Sweetgrass Basket Pavilion, a cultural arts exhibit on the history of sweetgrass basket making.

We know it’s really hard to leave Charleston. But don’t worry! You can stay connected with the world’s best city in between visits! Come follow us on Twitter @traveler_mag and on Instragram @travelerofcharleston where we share beautiful photos and cool stories year-round.

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SHOP + SAVOR

Picture Perfect Capture vacation memories at the most picturesque spots in Charleston Cistern Yard Dropped into the heart of historic downtown Charleston is the College of Charleston. A central – and most iconic spot – on campus is the Cistern Yard. Oak trees trace the entire yard and the background features historic Randolph Hall built in 1829. If you arrive around noon, the sun will be shining right into the yard, making the perfect photo opportunity.

Pitt Street Bridge This historic Mount Pleasant structure has gone through many renovations and expansions. No longer functioning as a bridge for transportation, this long walkway serves as a fishing pier and sightseeing opportunity.

With views of the Ravenel Bridge and the downtown peninsula, you can capture many amazing photos from this spot.

We would recommend visiting at sunset, but sunrise offers its own astounding experience.

Azalea Park This Summerville destination is well worth putting on your to-do list. This park includes a renowned garden that offers a spectacular display of flowers every spring. A series of pathways wind around the park, giving you plenty of opportunities to snap pictures of the ponds, sculptures and trees.

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Shop your way around Charleston DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON ■ King Street is a shopper’s paradise lined with national retailers, locally owned boutiques with clothing, housewares and handmade items. 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 Street to East Bay Street and is home to more than 100 vendors selling everything from art and jewelry to T-shirts and sweetgrass baskets.

■ Visit the Night Market from 6:3010:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday for live music and local arts and crafts.

SUMMERVILLE Take the main Summerville exit off Interstate 26 and follow the signs to the charming historic district and town square. There you’ll find loads of local boutiques and shops, including 12 antique stores, a children’s book store, coffee shops and restaurants, a community theater and one of the top quilt shops in the country. From 5-8 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month, businesses stay open later and the town square is filled with entertainment.

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, 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 pick up something new to wear at Escapada Living or II Brunettes. Carolina Girls carries gift items, jewelry and stationery. The Coastal Cupboard has a selection of specialty food items and cookware. shopbellehall.com NORTH CHARLESTON Tanger Outlets has dozens of nationally known retailers offering apparel for adults and children, shoes, accessories, housewares and jewelry. The area also has several restaurants and is easily accessible from both Interstates 526 and 26.

Share your Charleston shopping moments on our Facebook page at facebook.com/travelermag april-june 2018 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 45

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!

From shrimp and grits and crab cakes to local craft beer and spirits, you’ll discover why Charleston food is fabulous.

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.

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.

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.

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Visiting Charleston for the First Time?

WE HAVE YOUR GUIDE!

By Bailey Laskowski

Charleston has so much to offer that it can be a little overwhelming trying to figure out what to see and do first. If you only have a short time to visit or if it's your first time in the Holy City, there are few things you just can’t miss. We’ve compiled a list of the mustvisit attractions and tours to see while you’re here.

Get started! Charleston is waiting.

CARRIAGE TOUR Book a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown. Your tour guide is randomly assigned a route and will delight your tour group with stories and facts about Charleston from her earliest days to the present.

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND Sullivan’s Island is a breathtaking stretch of beach. Frequented by locals, this beach offers a serene environment to relax and take in the ocean breeze while watching for dolphins. The vibe on the island is calm and casual with multiple small shops and restaurants.

SHEM CREEK One of the most picturesque waterways in the area, Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant is a great spot for kayaking or simply enjoying drinks and a fresh seafood dinner with a water view.

PLANTATION TOUR Visit one of Charleston’s many plantations to see how wealthy plantation owners lived and for a deeper understanding of slave life in the Lowcountry.

RAINBOW ROW If you’re walking down Market or King streets, take a detour to Rainbow Row and Battery Park starting on East Bay Street. Rainbow Row includes a stretch of 13 brightly colored historic homes that you’ve probably seen in famous photographs. It’s definitely a sight to see for yourself. Rainbow Row also sits along the Battery, a Civil War-era defensive seawall and promenade along the Charleston harbor. Continue along the Battery to White Point Garden, a public park on the tip of the peninsula. Walk the park to see several statues and monuments.

WALKING HISTORY TOUR To fully immerse yourself in Charleston culture and history, walk the historic streets on a history tour. These on-the-ground tours offer a whole new perspective on the Holy City and afterward you’ll feel like a local with all your newfound Charleston knowledge.

FORT SUMTER Visit the spot where the Civil War began. On April 12, 1861, the Confederate artillery opened fire on this fort located in the Charleston harbor. Fort Sumter surrendered 34 hours later, and Union forces tried for nearly four years to take it back. Learn the history behind the Civil War, while taking in the beauty of the Charleston harbor.

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EAT + DRINK 50 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com april-june 2018

Shop Local Produce and Crafts at Area Farmers Markets

By Bailey Laskowski

What’s better than a beautiful day walking one of our local farmers markets, enjoying the sights and smells of local Charleston produce and artisan creations.

While you’re visiting, be sure to stop off at one of these wonderful local markets.

Charleston Farmers Market 329 Meeting St. in Marion Square | charlestonfarmersmarket.com Join locals every Saturday in beautiful Marion Square and peruse the more than 100 local vendors, including farmers and growers, sweet and savory food concessions, artisans and crafters plus live music and activities. Open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Saturday from April 14 to Nov. 24.

Mount Pleasant Farmers Market 645 Coleman Blvd. at Moultrie Middle School | experiencemountpleasant.com Visit the Mount Pleasant Farmers Market for local produce and fresh seafood plus live music and delectable snacks. Open 3:30-7 p.m. each Tuesday from April to September.

Folly Beach Farmers Market Folly River Park, Center St. | follybeachfarmersmarket.org Located so close to the Atlantic Ocean you’ll be able to smell the salt water in the air, the Folly Beach Farmers Market hosts vendors with fresh produce and local artisans showcasing their crafts along with kids’ activities. Shop for local goodies and then take a stroll on the beach to watch the sunset. Open 4-8 p.m. each Monday.

West Ashley Farmers Market 55 Sycamore Ave., Charleston | charlestonfarmersmarket.com/westashley Each week Ackerman Park is filled with local artisans and vendors. Stop by to support local farms and agriculture while enjoying live entertainment and family-friendly activities.

Open 3-7 p.m. each Wednesday from April 25 to Oct. 3.

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photo: Ken Bowman

James Island Sunday Brunch Farmers Market 1977 Maybank Highway, Charleston (behind The Pour House) sundaybrunchfarmersmarket.com Bring the family to James Island for a weekend morning full of quality and community.

This market is 100 percent local and includes live music and food trucks. Plus, dogs are welcome. Open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Sunday year-round.

Homegrown Johns Island Farmers Market 2024 Academy Road, Johns Island (at Charleston Collegiate School) johnsislandfarmersmarket.com Johns Island is a hidden gem of Charleston, offering beautiful views and good vibes all around. Hang out and listen to live music while browsing some of Johns Island’s best local produce and artisan crafts. Open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Saturday year-round.

Summerville Farmers Market 200 S. Main St. (in First Citizens Bank parking lot) summervillesc.gov/farmersmarket Browse fresh local produce, meats, seafood, baked goods and more in Summerville’s historic downtown square. Open 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Saturday from April 14.

North Charleston Farmers Market Felix C Davis Community Center, 4800 Park Circle northcharleston.org/farmersmarket.aspx The market offers an abundance of fresh, locally grown produce along with art & craft vendors, food trucks, specialty foods, kids’ activities and entertainment. Enjoy live music by groups and individuals from 5-7 p.m. Open 3-7 p.m. each Thursday from May 10 to Oct. 25. april-june 2018 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 53

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.

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 like Certified Angus Beef. The varied menu menu comes with many options: soups, chili, both hearty and heart-healthy sandwiches, wraps, giant spuds and desserts.

Oyster House on Market 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.

The Shelter Kitchen + Bar 202 Coleman Blvd. • Mount Pleasant • (Map O:2) 843-388-3625 • theshelterkitchenandbar.com One of Mount Pleasant's favorite restaurants and bars located by the hotspot known as Shem Creek. Locally sourced menu serving amazing brunch, lunch, dinner and a great place for a cocktail any time of day on their dog friendly patio.

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.

Riverfront Park in North Charleston sits on the bank of the Cooper River.

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.

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Visit Charleston’s Only Winery Just beyond the city limits of Charleston is Wadmalaw Island, a rural piece of the Lowcountry dotted with lives oaks and quiet country farms. The island is home to a 48-acre winery where muscadine grapes, a fruit native to the Southeast, grow in 7 miles of vines.

The only domestic winery in Charleston, Deep Water Vineyard produces five different wines from four varieties of grapes: • Low Tide: A semi-dry smooth white wine made from the Tara Scuppernong grape.

• Magnolia: A sweet white wine made from the Carlos Scuppernong grape.

• Lowcountry Red: A dry red wine, made with the Ison Muscadine grape, that’s fruity and fully flavored.

• Deep Water Blend: This wine is uniquely created each year to showcase the versatility of the grapes.

• High Tide: This light-bodied red wine, made from the Noble grape, has a robust muscadine flavor and nose.

Deep Water Vineyard offers daily self-guided tours and tastings plus a series of special events that invite visitors to enjoy the peaceful surroundings with a glass of their favorite red or white wine.

Visit Tuesday to Saturday for a self-guided tour of the vineyard and taste all the available wines for $7 (souvenir wine glass included). Tours and tastings are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Each Saturday, the vineyard hosts Weekend WineDown from noon to 4 p.m. with food, live music and, of course a glass a wine all in the tranquil surroundings of the vineyard.

On May 5, bring your furry friend for Vino-PAW-looza for a "May the 4th Be with You" event, complete with appearances from some of your favorite Star Wars characters. Dress your dog and bring the whole family for a day of fun.

Be sure to check out the new Sea Island Tours with three options for sampling beverages from Deep Water Vineyard plus Firefly Distillery and a local brewery. Other tour options include a stop at McLeod Plantation, the Angel Oak and Charleston Tea Plantation. Learn more at seaislandtours.com.

On the Way Out: Don’t miss a chance to see the Angel Oak on nearby Johns Island.

Estimated to be 300-400 years old, this oak tree towers 65 feet high and has a circumference of 25.5 feet. Its area of shade is 17,000 square feet and its largest limb has a circumference of 11.5 feet. Address: 3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island

Visit Deep Water Vineyard 6775 Bears Bluff Road Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487 843-559-6867 deepwatervineyard.com Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. april-june 2018 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 55

Love these Landmarks Soak up Charleston history at these key attractions

L

earn the history of Charleston and see some of the city’s most beautiful public spaces by visiting these area landmarks. These attractions are free or low cost. Be sure to download the free Traveler of Charleston mobile app for information and directions to all of these landmarks and more. (travelerofcharleston.com/download-the-app) Angel Oak Estimated to be 300-400 years old, the majestic Angel Oak is worth a visit. The oak tree towers 65 feet high and has a circumference of 25.5 feet. Its area of shade is 17,000 square feet and its largest limb has a circumference of 11.5 feet, and a length of 89 feet. No admission to visit the park and take photos, plus there’s a gift shop and picnic area. Address: 3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge Opened in July 2005, this cable-stayed bridge spanning the Cooper River has become an iconic symbol of Charleston. This architectural marvel has a 2-mile bike/pedestrian lane called Wonders’ Way. Free parking is available on East Bay Street in downtown Charleston and also on the Mount Pleasant side at Memorial Waterfront Park so you can walk the bridge for a bird’s eye view of the Charleston harbor.

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Fort Moultrie Visit Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island for a greater understanding of history from the American Revolution through World War II. Insider tip: Walk the beach there for stunning views of Fort Sumter and the Charleston skyline from a distance. Address: 1214 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island

Fort Sumter Calling all history buffs! Visit the spot where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Located in the Charleston harbor, Fort Sumter also played key roles in the Revolutionary War against the British and was Charleston’s main defense from seaside attacks. In 1966, the site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

You can visit the fort via ferry operated by Fort Sumter Tours. Tours depart from the Aquarium Wharf downtown or at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. april-june 2018 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 57

Marion Square Spanning more than 6 acres in the heart of downtown Charleston, Marion Square was established as a parade ground for the state arsenal under construction on the north side of the square. It is best known as the former Citadel Green because The Citadel occupied the arsenal from 1843 until 1922, when the military college moved to Charleston’s west side. The name was then changed to Marion Square, in honor of Francis Marion. This city park hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year. Address: 329 Meeting St., Charleston

Pitt Street Bridge Once a trolley bridge that connected Sullivan's Island and Mount Pleasant, the Pitt Street Bridge in Mount Pleasant’s Old Village is a beautiful spot for walking and jogging.

Fish from the pier or kayak in the Charleston harbor. The park is also a spectacular spot for catching the sunset with the Ravenel Bridge in the background.

Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon The Old Exchange is a must-see for all Charleston visitors. During your visit, you will discover this building’s integral role in our country’s quest for independence and its important service to our young nation.

The Old Exchange began its existence as a public building and remains so today. Take a tour (admission: $5-$10) to see various aspects of Charleston history during the Colonial and Revolutionary eras and put into context the people and events of the period.

Address: 122 East Bay St., Charleston

Rainbow Row Rainbow Row is the name for a series of colorful historic houses located north of Tradd Street and south of Elliot Street on East Bay Street. It is referred to as Rainbow Row for the pastel colors used to paint the houses.

It is a common tourist attraction and is one of the most photographed area of Charleston.

You may hear a number of tales as to why the houses are painted so colorfully.

One is so intoxicated sailors coming in from the port could remember which house to bunk in.

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The Battery The Battery is a landmark defensive seawall and promenade in Charleston, famous for its stately antebellum homes. Named for a Civil War coastal defense artillery battery at the site, it stretches along the lower shores of the Charleston peninsula, bordered by the Ashley and Cooper rivers. Address: 2 Murray Blvd., Charleston

St. Michaels Church & Graveyard St. Michael’s Church is the oldest church edifice in the City of Charleston, standing on the site of the first Anglican Church built south of Virginia. In the 1680s, a small wooden church – the first in the new town of Charles Town – was built on this spot for the families of the Church of England and named St. Philip’s. John Rutledge, the first governor of South Carolina and signer of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution is buried in the graveyard here.

Address: 80 Meeting St., Charleston

Riley Waterfront Park Riley Waterfront Park is a 12-acre park along a one-half mile stretch of the Cooper River in Charleston. The public park has a pier with swings and it’s a great place to see some dolphins and snap some photos of the harbor.

Be sure to dip your toes in the Pineapple Fountain – another iconic Charleston symbol.

Address: 1 Vendue Range, Charleston

Charles Pinckney National Historic Site Visitor Center Charles Pinckney was a principal author and a signer of the U.S. Constitution. This historic site is a 28-acre remnant of Pinckney's Snee Farm, a rice and indigo plantation.

Located on site is an 1828 coastal cottage that serves as a museum and visitor center.

Exhibits tell the story of Pinckney and his contributions to the United States as a young and emerging nation as well as detailing 18th-century plantation life for free and enslaved people at Snee Farm. Address: 1254 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant

St. Philips Church & Graveyard Building and graveyard are open to the public Monday to Friday. Established in 1681, St. Philip’s is the oldest religious congregation in South Carolina. The first St. Philip’s Church, a wooden building, was built between 1680 and 1681 at the corner of Broad and Meeting streets on the present day site of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. It was damaged in a hurricane in 1710 and a new St. Phillip’s Church was begun a few blocks away on Church Street. Address: 146 Church St., Charleston april-june 2018 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 59

Charleston Area Events april – june 2018

Blessing of the Fleet

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. scaquarium.org | 843-579-8518 6-8

Flowertown Festival – During this three-day festival, take in the beauty and charm of Summerville while enjoying 200 arts and crafts exhibitors, food, children’s activities and more. summervilleymca.org/flowertown-festival/

Through Volvo Car Open – This is the largest women’s only tennis tournament in the world.

4/8 2017 Volvo Car Open champion Daria Kasatkina will return to Charleston to defend her title. volvocaropen.com | 800-677-2293 Through Festival of Houses and Gardens – Explore the city’s historic district in a series of 4/21 tours showcasing Charleston’s distinctive architecture, history, gardens and culture. historiccharleston.org | 843-722-3405 6

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

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Cooper River Bridge Run – Thousands of people will gather for this annual event.

The 10K race starts in Mount Pleasant, crosses the Ravenel Bridge and finishes near Marion Square in downtown Charleston. bridgerun.com

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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, 22

Oh Happy Day Gospel Music Experience – This concert presents this colorful music through traditional songs, hymns, spirituals and the contemporary. Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting St. in Charleston. 843-577-6400

13-15

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

19-22

The Lowcountry Strawberry Festival at Boone Hall Plantation – Rides, a petting zoo, 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

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Cars on Kiawah – Head to the scenic Ocean Park on Kiawah Island to view more than 200 of the region’s top club and collector cars. Free admission.

Carsonkiawah.com

27 “Singing in the Rain” – The “greatest movie musical of all time” is faithfully and through lovingly adapted for stage. “Singin' in the Rain” has all the makings of a Tinseltown 5/13 tabloid headline - the starlet, the leading man and a love affair that could change lives and make or break careers. The Footlight Players, 20 Queen St. in Charleston. footlightplayers.net | 843-722-4487

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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. middletonplace.org 843-556-6020

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Joint Base Charleston 2018 Air & Space Expo – A free community event where the latest and greatest military and commercial aircraft will be on display in the air and on the ground. The main event will feature the U.S. Air Force’s elite aerial demonstration team, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. jbcharleston.jb.mil

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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. experiencemountpleasant.com

MAY 2-6

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

5

Charleston Gallery Association Artwalk – Visit more than 40 participating galleries during this free evening artwalk. Visit the website for a map. charlestongalleryassociation.com

5

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

10 & 24 Hops and Vines – This event features live music, beer, wine and a food truck in the beautiful setting of McLeod Plantation Historic Site on James Island. Interpreters also will be at the event to illustrate the storied history of McLeod Plantation. ccprc.com 11-13

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

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Charleston Beer Garden – Known as Charleston's largest pop-up beer garden, The Grove at Patriots Point will be transformed into an oasis for craft beer lovers. Enjoy beer, food, a homebrewers village, games, live music and more. charlestonbeergarden.com

25 to 6/10

Piccolo Spoleto – With more than 500 arts and cultural events, Piccolo Spoleto hosts 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

25 to 6/10

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

25-27 & “Boeing Boeing” – Bernard is a ladies man with three fiancees, each a beautiful 6/1-3 flight attendant. With the help of his maid, Berta, and his friend, Robby he keeps "one up, one down, and one pending" until schedule changes brings all three ladies to Bernard's apartment in Paris at the same time. flowertownplayers.org | 843-875-9251

JUNE 1 & 22

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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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

brewery/distillery article.

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

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

brewery/distillery article.

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

2

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. 843-856-9732

12 “She Drives Me Crazy” – A five-story walkup is overrun with love, angst and the through pursuit of better coffee. It’s “Friends” meets “Seinfeld” in this new romantic comedy 9/25 with tunes from Celine Dion to Spin Doctors. Prepare for a hilarious '90's night out at 34 West Theater, 200 Meeting St. in Charleston. 34west.org | 843-901-9343 21-24

Charleston Carifest – Charleston Carifest is a Caribbean Carnival celebration in honour of Caribbean American Heritage Month. It is four days of food, fun, music, and costumes submerged in education and culture. This is the creative and artistic expression of Caribbean people. charlestoncarifest.com

ONGOING EVENTS Blues & BBQ Harbor Cruise – Cruise the Charleston harbor enjoying a barbecue buffet, live blues music and cash bar. Thursdays through Oct. 26 and some select Fridays. 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 6 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 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. soundofcharleston.com | 843-270-4903 “Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre” – Audience-interactive comic mysteries run most evenings. 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 in 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. summervilledream.org * Event details are subject to change. Please call ahead or check the listed website for confirmation.

For even more Charleston area events, check 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 Theatre, 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 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 The Powder Magazine, G:8 Visitor Center, G:4 Waterfront Park/Pineapple Fountain, I:8

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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; $12 for allday passes, 3 and under are free.

No reservations needed.

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.

■ UBER AND LYFT Ride services are available in the area.

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SEE + DO Adventure Sightseeing Tours Audubon at Beidler Forest Barrier Island Eco Tours Black Fedora Theatre Boone Hall Plantation Bulldog Tours Carriage / Harbor Tour Combo Caw Caw Interpretive Center Charleston County Water Parks Charleston Food Tours Charleston Harbor Tours Charleston Strolls Charleston Water Taxi Charleston Zipline Adventures Fort Sumter Tours Ghost / Harbor Tour Combo GrayLine Bus Tours Isle of Palms Marina McLeod Plantation Middleton Place Nature Adventures North Charleston Arts Fest North Charleston Fire Museum North Charleston, City of Palmetto Breeze Palmetto Carriage Patriots Point Maritime Museum Plantation / Harbor Tour Combo Reel Deal Fishing Charters Sandlapper Tours South Carolina Aquarium SpiritLine Harbor Tour Summerville, Town of Taste of the Lowcountry The Charleston Museum The Schooner Pride The Sound of Charleston USS Yorktown Ghost Tours Wild Blue Ropes

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SHOP + SAVOR Dacuba's Jewelry Terrace Oaks Antique Mall

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EAT + DRINK Charleston Crab House Cru Café Deep Water Vineyard East Bay Deli Middleton Place Restaurant Oyster House on Market SpiritLine Dinner Cruise The Shelter Kitchen + Bar

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TRAVELER

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travelerofcharleston.com april-june 2018 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com 69

DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS

Directory Of Advertisers

Sponsored content

Music, Art Come Alive in North Charleston this Spring orth Charleston’s Riverfront Park has become a go-to location for outdoor concerts and festivals. Coming up April 21-22 is High Water Festival (highwaterfest.com).

Taking the stage at this year’s event are Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit’s, Band of Horses, Shovels & Ropes, Brandi Carlile and more than a dozen more musical performers.

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Widespread Panic also will play Riverfront Park during the Trondossa Music & Arts Festival (trondossa.com) on May 5-6. Other performers include Sturgill Simpson, Margo Price and Big Something along with Moon Taxi and Hiss Golden Messenger. Widespread Panic and Sturgill Simpson will perform unique sets each night of the festival.

Celebrate North Charleston’s vibrant arts and culture scene at the North Charleston Arts Fest (northcharlestonartsfest) from May 2-6. This annual celebration boosts national, regional and local artists and performers in dance, music, theatre, visual arts, media arts and literature.

Performances and exhibits are affordable and accessible at locations all around the area.

Don’t miss the flagship event, the Arts Fest Expo on May 5-6, with free admission and more than 40 performances on multiple stages at the Charleston Area Convention Center.

70 TRAVELER ofCharleston.com april-june 2018