Charleston Weekend

How to Spend a Charming 48 Hours in Charleston

Where to Stay, Dine and Explore

Day 1

⏰ 4 PM: Check into the Francis Marion Hotel
📍387 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

Start your Charleston journey at the Francis Marion Hotel, a testament to 1920s elegance. Its opulent charm and modern amenities make it the ideal retreat.

⏰ 4:30 PM: Late Lunch at Felix
📍 550 King St #100, Charleston, SC 29403

Make your way to Felix for a late lunch that promises to delight your taste buds. The star of the menu is the Petit Steak-Frites, a dish that elegantly marries French culinary artistry with a touch of Southern charm. The chic and welcoming ambiance sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. Don’t miss their signature mocktail, “Faux Fun,” which is as playful and refreshing as it sounds, making it the perfect non-alcoholic accompaniment to your meal. Felix is not just a meal; it’s a culinary journey in the heart of Charleston. 

Day 2

⏰9 AM: Scenic Walk across the Ravenel Bridge
📍99 Harry M. Hallman Jr Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Begin your day with a picturesque walk across the Ravanel Bridge. The sweeping views of the harbor provide a stunning backdrop for your morning stroll.

⏰ 10 AM: Breakfast at Second State Coffee
📍 766 S Shelmore Blvd Ste 202, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Savor a nourishing breakfast at Second State Coffee. Their Breakfast Bowl is a medley of black beans, baby greens, pepitas, two eggs, roasted veggies, and pickled onions. This healthful and hearty meal is a delightful way to kickstart your day.

⏰ 11 AM: Discover Shem Creek Boardwalk
📍 Shem Creek Boardwalk, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

The tranquil Shem Creek Boardwalk is next, offering a peaceful respite. Its natural beauty and lively atmosphere are perfect for a leisurely morning.

⏰ 1 PM: Authentic Tacos at El Molino Supermarket 2 
📍 5900 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406

For lunch, venture to El Molino Supermarket 2. Their tacos are a culinary revelation, freshly made and bursting with flavor. It’s a local secret, known for its authentic taste that’s unparalleled in the Charleston area.

⏰ 2:30 PM: Explore King Street’s Boutiques
📍 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401

King Street is a shopper’s paradise, featuring notable boutiques and shops. From high-end fashion to local artisan crafts, this bustling street offers a shopping experience filled with Southern charm and unique finds.

⏰ 4 PM: Sunset Cruise on Schooner Pride
📍 Charleston Harbor

Embark on a picturesque sunset cruise aboard the Schooner Pride. This tranquil sail offers a unique view of the city, capturing the essence of Charleston’s coastal beauty.

⏰ 7 PM: Seafood Dinner at Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar
📍 205 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401

Conclude your day with a sumptuous dinner at Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar. Their menu showcases the freshest local seafood, served in an elegant yet relaxed setting.

Day 3

⏰ 8 AM: Morning Coffee at Mudhouse Charleston
📍 375 King St, Charleston, SC 29401

Begin your final day at Mudhouse. Their expertly crafted coffee provides the perfect start to a day filled with exploration.

⏰ 9 AM: Historic Carriage Tour
📍 Old South Carriage Company, Charleston, SC

Take a step back in time with a horse-drawn carriage tour through the historic streets of Charleston. This engaging tour reveals the city’s storied past and architectural gems.

⏰ 11:30 AM: The Charleston Market Experience
📍 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

The Charleston Market awaits, offering a diverse array of local artisan crafts and souvenirs. This historic marketplace is a vibrant expression of Charleston’s culture.

⏰ 12:30 PM: Elevated Dining at Élevé
📍 55 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401

Lunch at Élevé Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge provides a grand finale to your Charleston trip. Enjoy their modern Southern cuisine amidst breathtaking city views.

⏰ 2 PM: Scenic Visit to the Battery and Waterfront Park Pier
📍 The Battery, Charleston, SC 29401

Conclude your adventure with a visit to the Battery and Joe Riley Waterfront Park Pier. These iconic landmarks offer scenic views and a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection on your memorable journey.

Charleston is a city where every moment is a journey through rich history, and each meal a celebration of Southern culinary artistry. This 48-hour itinerary offers just a glimpse into the heart of this captivating coastal city.

Megan Parker

+ posts

Megan Parker, Marketing Director at Coastal Insider, is a seasoned videographer and photographer residing in Market Common with her family, including her son Bodhi. A Coastal Carolina University alumna, Megan combines her experience in domestic and international fashion photography with her marketing skills, creating a structured and dynamic approach that drives her professional success.