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How to Spend 24 Hours in Charleston: Full Itinerary
1 Day in Charleston SC | What to See in 24 Hours
If you like charming cities as much as I do, you will love Charleston. We’ve visited Charleston multiple times because there is so much to see, do, and eat! This time, as we made our way north from Miami to New York, we decided to spend a week in South Carolina.
Charleston was founded in 1670 and is defined by pastel antebellum houses, cobblestone streets, historic sites, horse-drawn carriages, and its beautiful harbor. This port city is one of the oldest and most well-preserved cities in the United States with beautiful Colonial architecture.
Here is a list of my Top Things to See in Charleston, and a complete One Day in Charleston Itinerary (in case you are wondering what to do with your first 24 hours in the city!).
Top Things to See in Charleston
Best Things To Do In Charleston
Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is an eight-acre park overlooking Charleston Harbour and the Cooper River.
Be sure to stop at the enchanting Pineapple Fountain, not only is it the iconic focal point of the park, it is also one of Charleston’s most Instagrammable landmarks!
Did you know that pineapple motifs represent hospitality?
Rainbow Row
You can’t leave Charleston without checking out Rainbow Row!
Rainbow Row refers to the captivating row of thirteen pastel-colored homes located on East Bay Street, just along the waterfront. These historic homes were first constructed around 1740 and were used by merchants who ran their businesses on the ground floor and lived on the top floor.
After the Civil War, Dorothy Porcher Legge and her husband purchased a section of the houses and started renovating them. These homes will brighten your day!
The Battery
After checking out the homes on Rainbow Row, make your way to The Battery, a fortified seawall at the southernmost tip of the Charleston peninsula. We enjoyed this beautiful promenade that is well-known for its antebellum homes!
shoe details: Pointe Flats
Charleston City Market
Spend a few hours exploring the Charleston City Market, picking up a regional souvenir, and soaking up the local culture. Spanning four blocks, the historic market was established in the 1790s and is one of the oldest public markets in the country. This market’s most popular arts and crafts include sweetgrass baskets, a true Charleston treasure.
An interactive map of how to spend one day in Charleston SC
Charleston – Where to Eat
If you like to try traditional Southern cuisine, then you will enjoy this restaurant located inside a beautiful Victorian townhouse tucked away on charming Queen Street. When visiting Charleston, biscuits are a must! Their homemade biscuits are fantastic, and one early morning I walked over to pick up half a dozen for me and my husband!
Address: 72 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
The Restoration’s The Watch Rooftop is a farm-to-table restaurant worth checking out! One of my husband’s college roommates recently moved to Charleston, and brought us here for cocktails on the rooftop and a panoramic view of Charleston from above!
Address: 75 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401
Wood-fired pizzas, hand-crafted pasta, and great wine – need I say more?! My husband’s cousin has lived in Charleston for many years, so we met up with her and her boyfriend here for dinner. Delicious food & fun times!
Address: 526 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
We stopped at this lovely eatery on the way to the Pineapple Fountain! This popular cafe has smoothies, sandwiches, and desserts, just three minutes from the Waterfront Park area.
Address: 198 E Bay St #100, Charleston, SC 29401
Food Tours in Charleston
Here are two very popular food tours in Charleston:
Charleston – Where to Stay
We enjoyed our stay at the Indigo Inn because of its excellent location. Another advantage is that it has a parking lot on site, and wine & cheese daily at 5 PM. We were traveling with our two dogs, so staying at a hotel that welcomed them was also a requirement. I feel that we got lucky with this one – we booked it one hour before we arrived in the city!
To book a room at Indigo Inn, click here.
Address: 1 Maiden Lane, Historic District, Charleston, SC 29401
This historic hotel is also located in the heart of Charleston! Live jazz music along with cocktails is available at the hotel’s Swamp Fox Bar. A full-service spa and Starbucks Coffee shop are on site as well. We could not stay here because the hotel only allows one dog per room and small breeds. I think this hotel would be perfect for a romantic getaway!
To book a room at the Francis Marion Hotel, click here.
Address: 387 King Street, Historic District, Charleston, SC 29403
This top-notch hotel offers a relaxing and cozy environment in the heart of Charleston’s historic district. If you are looking for refined elegance during your visit to the city, this luxury boutique hotel is a must! The hotel offers complimentary cruising bikes and a Tesla car charging station. Be sure to check out the rooftop!
To book a room at The Loutrel, click here.
Address: 61 State Street, Charleston, SC 29401
We didn’t learn about this hotel until after we left, but I’d love to stay here in the future! This 5-star hotel features a gorgeous lobby, indoor and outdoor saltwater pools, a fitness center, and a rooftop terrace! The hotel welcomes two pets of any size, for an additional fee.
To book a room at The Charleston Place, click here.
Address: 205 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC, 29401
See all Charleston hotels here.
The best time to visit Charleston
The best time to visit Charleston, South Carolina is during spring (mid-March through May) or fall (September – November) when the temperatures are lovely.
September is hurricane season, so be sure to check the weather reports!
Is 1 day in Charleston enough?
Although one day is not enough, it is a good start! Charleston offers history, charm, architecture, great food, and scenic views, so you will want to visit again for sure! Take a look at the 1 day Charleston itinerary below, and enjoy your time!
How far is Charleston?
If you are visiting Charleston from Florida, the trip from Miami to Charleston is 590 miles (950 km) via Florida’s Turnpike and I-95. The drive usually takes 8.5 hours with normal driving conditions.
Can you do a day trip from Charleston to Savannah?
Yes! The trip from Savannah to Charleston is a little over 100 miles (160 km) via I-95. These two cities are often visited together because Savannah’s proximity to Charleston makes it the perfect day trip destination while staying in one or the other.
Which airport is best for Charleston?
Charleston International Airport (CHS) is 13 miles (20 km) from Charleston.
Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is 302 miles (486 km) from Charleston, a 5-hour drive.
Charleston 1 day itinerary and map!
Map of Charleston South Carolina
Charleston One Day Itinerary
- Start your day with an early breakfast at Poogan’s Porch
- Explore the Historic Charleston City Market
- Take a coffee break at Carmella’s Cafe
- Walk to the Pineapple Fountain & enjoy a walk along the river
- Make your way to the colorful homes on Rainbow Row
- Continue to The Battery & stroll by the water
- Watch the sunset at The Watch Rooftop while enjoying a cocktail
- Finish your day with dinner at Indaco on King Street
A final note!
If you are in Charleston for longer than two days, you can do a day trip from Charleston to Fort Sumter National Monument. It’s an island fortress in the middle of Charleston Harbor that is famous for being the location of the first battle of the American Civil War. Less than two miles from the fortress you will find several dining options like NICO Oysters & Seafood, Page’s Okra Grill, and Water’s Edge, a restaurant on historic Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant. We had lunch at Water’s Edge with friends of my husband, and I enjoyed the views and the linguini, but check all the restaurant options to see which you’d like best!
What are you looking forward to seeing in Charleston? I hope that this list of things to see, and my 1 day Charleston itinerary helps plan your next trip to the Holy City.
Lots of love, Xx
Tours recommended for Charleston:
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Looking for pet-friendly hotels in Charleston?
I wrote an article on the best pet-friendly hotels we have stayed at, and I included pet-friendly hotels in Charleston and other cities along the East Coast of the US.
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Jacksonville & Where To Stay in Atlantic Beach Florida
Jacksonville Travel Guide
The city of Jacksonville had always been at the top of my list of cities to visit in Florida! Jacksonville has 22 miles of beaches, beautiful historic neighborhoods, parks, museums, outstanding golf courses and fantastic local restaurants.
We drove down to Miami to visit my family during the holidays, and on our way back to New York we enjoyed an amazing week in the city of Jacksonville!
I was invited by Jacksonville Florida Tourism to explore the city and share my favorite activities. We visited during the third week of January, and the weather was amazing. It was breezy at night, and we had plenty of sunshine during the day.
Keep reading to find out where we stayed, where we ate and what we enjoyed the most!
Where To Stay in Atlantic Beach FL
There are so many different experiences to have in Jacksonville. This time around we were looking to explore the fun things to do in town, relax by the ocean, and enjoy long walks on the beach. One Ocean Resort & Spa in Atlantic Beach was perfect for doing all of that.
Located about 25 miles south of the Georgia state line and 350 miles north of Miami, Jacksonville was the first stop we made after leaving Miami. We were escaping the snow, so spending a few more days by the beach was exactly what we were looking for.
One Ocean Resort & Spa is a luxury resort that features guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling views of the Atlantic Ocean. We stayed in one of their Deluxe King Rooms, which offered a breathtaking view of the ocean. Upon arriving, we opened the windows, and my husband noticed that we could hear the waves crashing from inside the room, he was so impressed! The guest rooms feature deluxe beds custom-designed for the hotel, and our bed was one of the most comfortable beds we’ve ever slept on. The hotel’s oceanic-inspired décor, combined with ocean views create an incredibly soothing experience for its guests.
See One Ocean Resort’s rooms and reviews here.
What To Do in Jacksonville
In Jax, as the locals call it, you will discover that this perfectly positioned city along the Atlantic Ocean in northeast Florida, has something for everyone! If you are looking to explore the coast, Atlantic Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach and Amelia Island are all within an hour’s drive from downtown Jacksonville. If you enjoy staying active or spending time outdoors, Jacksonville offers hiking and biking trails that will definitely get your adrenaline going.
Art lovers can enjoy an afternoon at the Cummer Museum & Gardens (my favorite place!), or at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Finally, did you know that Jacksonville is home to the World Golf Hall of Fame, The Players Championship, PGA Tour and Champions Tour, as well as home to world-class golf courses?!
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Where To Eat in Jacksonville
Southern Grounds & Co. – Quickly became one of our favorite breakfast spots in Jacksonville! Their gluten-free blueberry muffins are so delicious! I loved their cute indoor area, if you are ever in town, check it out!
Address: 1671 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Whit’s Frozen Custard – This is one of the most delicious cold desserts! Whit’s Frozen Custard is located across the street from The One Ocean Resort so it was easy for us to grab a frozen custard every single day! The flavors that I ordered the most were: mint, banana & raspberry, and the last one was my favorite.
Address: 38 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
The Local on Neptune Beach – The Local is a fun place with a cool atmosphere and live music every night! We grabbed dinner here one day and had such a great time. Their fresh lemonade is one of the best I’ve ever had.
Address: 301 Atlantic Blvd, Neptune Beach, FL 32266
Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar – Tacos & margaritas? Yes, please! This restaurant has an entire menu that is gluten free, how amazing is that?! My husband and I both love Mexican food so we had to try it out!
Address: 207 Atlantic Blvd, Neptune Beach, FL 32266
Azurea at the One Ocean Resort – We enjoyed one of the best fine dining experiences here! Azurea is a beautiful restaurant located inside the One Ocean Resort that offers a seafood-centric American menu. We loved the mussels as the appetizer, the seabass as the main course, and the brownie for dessert! The seabass for dinner is a must-have! It was probably the best fish I have ever eaten.
Address: 1 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
JACKSONVILLE AND ATLANTIC BEACH FLORIDA MAP
How is the weather in Jacksonville, Florida?
The average annual temperature of Jacksonivlle is 70 degrees, with an average high of 78 and an average low of 62. You can expect year-round sunshine, chilly nights during the winter months, and temperature in the 80s during the summer months. Jacksonville’s coldest month is January!
Where is Jacksonville located?
The city of Jacksonville is situated in the northeastern corner of Florida, 350 miles from Atlanta, Georgia, and 350 miles from Miami.
Save this post, and plan a quick getaway to Atlantic Beach soon!
And be sure to check out Visit Jacksonville to see why Jax is the perfect destination year round.
WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR JACKSONVILLE FLORIDA TRIP
Have you visited Jacksonville? What was your favorite spot?
MORE PLACES TO STAY
See all Jacksonville area hotels and reviews here.
MORE TRAVEL GUIDES
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Where to Stay in Islamorada in the Florida Keys
Where to Stay in Islamorada Florida
Looking to enjoy the beauty of Islamorada Florida? Then you’re in the right place because in today’s blog post, I will share where we stayed, where we ate, and a list of hotels you can stay at while visiting Islamorada.
Islamorada is one of six villages in The Florida Keys.
What is Islamorada known for?
Islamorada is a beautiful destination in Florida that is known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World. You will find peaceful scenic views, amazing food, coral reefs, and an easygoing atmosphere in a tropical setting.
Why Visit Islamorada, Florida?
Staying in Islamorada is always a good idea! For us, January, February, and March are the best months to escape New York’s snow and enjoy Florida’s sandy beaches.
We drove down to Florida to spend time with my family during the holidays, as well as for sunshine, palm trees, and bliss. My husband had never been to the Florida Keys, so we thought it’d be the perfect time to visit because of its proximity to Miami. I must add that Amara Cay Resort welcomes pets, which is important for us traveling with our dogs.
SEE RELATED ARTICLE:
The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels We’ve Stayed At
Where to Stay in Islamorada
Amara Cay Resort has 110 rooms, each with a private balcony. The resort has its own heated pool and private beach for guests to enjoy. Both my husband and I loved the hammocks under the palm trees, thatched huts, and stunning ocean views.
Waking up with those sunrises was quite dreamy! If you are looking for an ocean-front property with a laid-back atmosphere, then Amara Cay Resort is the place for you.
Another reason to stay at Amara Cay Resort is the amenities the property has to offer. You can enjoy the bicycles, kayaks, paddleboards and board games on their outdoor lawn, or take a dip in their heated pool before heading to the Tiki Bar for a piña colada (I couldn’t get enough of them!).
Accommodations at Amara Cay Resort
During our recent stay at Amara Cay Resort, we stayed in an oceanfront suite on the top floor – it had a living room, a balcony, and a spacious bedroom with a King bed. The views from the rooms were spectacular, and staying there felt like a home away from home.
See rooms and availability at Amara Cay Resort here.
Where to Eat in Islamorada
Restaurants
Reel Burger & Tiki Bar
Breezy poolside spot for classic American cuisine and tropical cocktails against a backdrop of swaying palm trees. Their grilled chicken Caesar salad and key lime pie were both amazing!
Ciao Hound Italian Kitchen & Bar
At Ciao Hound I enjoyed some of the best appetizers I’ve ever had in my life! I highly recommend the baked spinach artichoke fonduta and their prosciutto-wrapped shrimp. For dinner, my husband and I both picked the mahi-mahi, and it was excellent.
Book your stay at Amara Cay Resort here.
Interactive Map of Islamorada FL
MORE INFO FOR YOUR DAYS IN ISLAMORADA
What To Do in Islamorada
Here are popular activities for your visit to Islamorada!
Are 1-2 days in Islamorada worth it?
Yes! Seeing Islamorada in 1-2 days is easy because it is a small village. Make a stop in Islamorada on your way to or from Key West since you will drive through it each time. Islamorada is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with tropical views, and fun outdoor activities.
How far is Islamorada?
The trip from Miami to Islamorada is around 90 miles (145 km) via I-95 and US-1. The drive usually takes 2.5 hours, with normal driving conditions.
If you are making a stop in Islamorada after visiting Key West, the trip is 80 miles (129 km). Those are the best ways to get to Islamorada.
Which airport is best for Islamorada?
Miami International Airport (MIA) is 79 miles (127 km) from Islamorada, a 2-hour drive.
Fort Lauderdale Hollywood Airport (FTL) is 108 miles (174 km) from Islamorada, a 2+ hour drive.
Orlando International Airport is 311 miles (500 km) from Islamorada, a 5-hour drive.
A final note!
If you are trying to decide whether to stay in Key West or Islamorada, the answer depends on two things: the amount of driving you are comfortable doing, and whether you prefer a relaxing atmosphere or a touristy spot. Those were the two factors that made us pick Islamorada over Key West. We were seeking a peaceful atmosphere that was a relatively easy drive from Miami.
The trip from Miami to Key West is around 170 miles and the drive takes 4+ hours.
Let me know if you have a question about Islamorada and I’ll get back to you!
FOR YOUR FLORIDA TRIP
Where to Stay in Islamorada FL
Take a look at the following hotels in Islamorada:
- Amara Cay Resort
- Cheeca Lodge & Spa
- Islander Resort
- Chesapeake Beach Resort
- Pines & Palms Resort
- Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection
- Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina
- Pelican Cove Resort & Marina
- La Siesta Resort & Marina
Prefer to stay in a hotel in Key Largo? Here are three wonderful options:
Looking for a hotel in Key West? Take a look at these:
Activity mentioned in this article:
Explore More
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- MAINE | 20 Amazing Things in Portland
- The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels We’ve Stayed At
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What to Pack for Miami in January
Shop: Black Midi Dress
SHOP THE LOOKS:
What to Pack for Miami in January
Today I wanted to share the outfits that I brought with me to Miami. I love tropical weather, and ever since I moved to New York City in 2019, I’ve missed dressing for summer all year long!
I can’t wait to be able to repeat these looks in New York next summer! If you ever visit Miami in January, be sure to pack a mix of clothing pieces, including a knit cardigan, or a lightweight jacket.
Details: Black Midi Dress
2021 | Holidays in Miami
Shop The Look – Check Coat
Shop The Look – Teddy Coat
White Winter Outfit with a Long Teddy Coat
LONG TEDDY COAT
Hello everyone! New York City is currently covered in snow!
Winter Storm Gail passed through the northeast area of the country just a few days ago! The storm brought New York City between 8-12 inches of snow overnight – more snow than all last winter!
Surprisingly, this Florida girl has been enjoying it! Let me remind you that I have been living in New York since late 2019… and this is my second winter in the city so I feel that I am now better prepared for the low temperatures!
Having the right gear is key, and this long teddy coat has been a favorite! What city are you guys in, and what is the weather like over there?!
Staying warm by wearing a TEDDY COAT with a CABLE-KNIT SWEATER.
