Exploring Charleston: Activities to Enjoy Before or After Your Cruise

Are you embarking on a cruise to the Caribbean, Bermuda, or The Bahamas from the picturesque shores of Charleston? You’re in for a treat! As South Carolina's oldest city, Charleston boasts a wealth of breathtaking historical landmarks, delicious local cuisine, and unique shopping experiences.

Whether you’re embarking on a family cruise or a romantic escape, make the most of this charming part of South Carolina. Before you set sail or even after you return from your tropical adventure, be sure to allocate a few extra days to wander through the streets, enjoy the festivals, visit museums, and soak in the historical allure of South Carolina’s premier city.

Shopping on Historic Streets

Shopaholics will find a true paradise in Charleston. Visitors are quickly discovering what the locals have known for ages: the streets of Charleston boast some of the finest shopping experiences around.

King Street reigns supreme as the most beloved shopping destination, and it’s easy to see why. This lengthy avenue is filled to the brim with chic clothing boutiques, quirky music stores, inviting bookstores, and antique shops where you never know what treasures you might unearth. Additionally, various festivals take place in the downtown area throughout the year, so keep an eye out for one during your visit.

The section of King Street located north of Calhoun Street offers a wider array of shops, while the southern part transforms into a narrow, one-way road where boutiques are nestled closely together. This lower segment exudes a more romantic ambiance, making it the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a delightful jaunt in and out of shops as you search for the most extraordinary finds.

Another exceptional shopping hub is the Charleston City Market, located within a cluster of charming low-rise buildings between North Market Street and South Market Street. Not only are the offerings inside remarkable, but the buildings themselves are captivating, having been constructed in the early 1800s with the enduring purpose of serving as a public market.

Initially established as a food market, the City Market now features hundreds of local and regional vendors offering a diverse range of products, from jewelry and artisanal soaps to pottery and handcrafted baskets. The sweet grass baskets are particularly noteworthy for their stunning beauty, intricate symmetry, and the countless hours dedicated to weaving each exquisite layer.

Dining Out: A Flavorful Array of Choices

Charleston is a melting pot of culinary influences, and this diversity is evident in its dishes. As you navigate through Charleston before or after your cruise, you’ll discover a wealth of Southern specialties, including fried chicken, grits, barbecue, pimento cheese, and cobblers. This is soul food made with love, where each dish is thoughtfully crafted and meticulously checked for the ideal balance of flavor and visual appeal. Deep-rooted family traditions thrive in Charleston, with many eateries being family-run establishments passed down through generations.

While Charleston boasts a variety of international cuisines, including Chinese, Lebanese, French, Mediterranean, and Vietnamese, its most prevalent fare is lowcountry cuisine.

Lowcountry cuisine is distinctly regional, stretching down to Georgia and up to Virginia, and it heavily draws from the ocean's offerings. Fish, shrimp, and other seafood delicacies frequently feature in lowcountry dishes, which are beloved by locals. Many restaurants see long lines as both residents and visitors flock to savor these delightful meals. Popular dishes include okra soup, shrimp and grits, Frogmore stew, crab cakes, and oyster soup.

Discovering Charleston: A Sightseer’s Paradise

After enjoying shopping and dining, you’ll likely want to explore this charming port city at a leisurely pace. Fortunately, Charleston is perfect for slow exploration, with many attractions within easy walking distance. If you prefer to take a break, consider hiring a horse-drawn carriage for a romantic tour of the historic downtown area.

At the southernmost tip of the city, you’ll find The Battery. This historic seawall and promenade was built in the 1750s and later renovated in the 1820s. It stretches along East Battery and Murray Blvd., concluding at Tradd Street. The area is lined with breathtaking antebellum homes, each serving as a unique destination in its own right.

Next, there’s Fort Sumter, situated on an island at the entrance of Charleston Harbor. This national monument played a crucial role during the Civil War and remains a source of pride for many Southerners. You can catch the Fort Sumter Ferry from the downtown landing near Freedom Lane.

Discovering the charm of Charleston is the perfect way to kick off or conclude your cruise to the Caribbean, Bermuda, or The Bahamas. While your cruise offers numerous adventures, remember to enhance your journey with experiences along Charleston’s shores. Spend a few days in this welcoming port city, and you’ll see why Charleston holds a special place in everyone’s heart.