If you have ever wondered if your family should travel to Charleston, the answer is yes! Have you ever visited the “Holy City”? Charleston, South Carolina is known to be the Holy City because of its acceptance of all religions. In addition, there are many historical churches that are absolutely breathtaking. Charleston is a great vacation destination, especially for families with children, toddlers, and infants. The city offers many different attractions and foods. There is something for everyone to enjoy. If you are in downtown almost everything is in walking distance.

The community is kind and welcoming. The town is made up of many “mom and pop” shops and restaurants. There are also many chain businesses and restaurants as well. If you are looking for a place with plenty of southern hospitality, entertainment, and history, then Charleston is the place to go.

Finding Lodging in Charleston

There is a large range of places to stay in and around Charleston. The lodging in the city is mostly sweet boutique-style hotels. Many of them are near historical buildings or are modernized historical buildings themselves. The 86 Cannon, Zero George, and Belmond Charleston Place hotels range approximately $250 to $400 a night. If you are looking for places that are simple, safe, and affordable, there are many hotels inland such as in North Charleston, Summerville, and West Ashley. These cities are all roughly 30 minutes or less from Downtown Charleston.

Places to Eat in Charleston

Charleston has many places to eat or snack. Many again, are “mom and pop” shops with a variety of foods and atmospheres. This Holy City even has many restaurants that accommodate dietary restrictions.

Bon Banh Mi

Bon Banh Mi offers an amazing Southeastern Asian menu. Their options include fresh salads, sandwiches, tacos, and their daily special. The menu is well written with clear descriptions of what is vegetarian and gluten free. Their Vietnamese iced coffee and Thai tea are worth every penny. Bon Banh Mi has something that everyone will enjoy.

Caviar and Bananas

If you like freshly made pastries and espresso bars then you have to try Caviar and Bananas. This place will “knock your socks off” they are so good. The menu starts with coffee and pastries of all kinds and continues to fresh, delicious salads and sandwiches. They are both a market and deli with delivery. The owners take pride in making sure their food and beverages are top quality and have great portions. Their menu includes items that accommodate dietary restrictions such as gluten free. This is a must-stop during a visit to Charleston.

Basil Thai Restaurant

Here is a place that offers a generous amount of gluten free meals with a variety of choices. They offer curry, soups, salads, entrees, and specialties. The curry is delicious and comes in a mix of flavors and toppings. The prices are fair and the portions are perfect. They offer lunch Monday thru Friday  11:30 am – 2:30 pm. They offer dinner Monday thru Thursday 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm, Friday and Saturday 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm, and Sunday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm.

Some similar places include Verde, Brown Dog Deli, Five Loaves Cafe, Dellz Uptown, and Co. One of the many reasons to visit Charleston is to enjoy the variety of comfort food that is offered. There is something for every single member of your family.

Things to do

There is plenty of nightlife in Charleston and great places to sit and enjoy a cocktail or your beverage of choice. During the day there are so many attractions that your whole family can enjoy. You can find a variety of tours, museums, beaches, shopping, and more to fill up every hour of your stay.

South Carolina Aquarium

This aquarium is not the biggest in the country, but it offers a lot of fun and a variety of sea life. You can watch the stingrays swim through a large pool and turn around to watch dolphins in the harbor. There is a touch tank with little sea critters such as starfish that kids love. The aquarium is one of the more expensive attractions, but it is a wonderful place for the whole family.

Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry

There are Children’s Museums all over the country. It is fun and is an incredible learning opportunity for the whole family. The Charleston Children’s Museum is free for kids 12-months-old and under and is $12 for non-residents. The admission gives you access to the entire museum. This museum has nine hands-on interactive attractions. In between attractions you can check out the neat 3D mural and art they have on display. This will be a trip that will have all your little ones sleeping well that night.

Sightseeing Tours in Charleston

Tours in Charleston are very entertaining. Historical tours are offered at the variety of buildings and landmarks. One being the Angel Tree that is located in downtown Charleston.  The tree is said to be at least 1,500 years old and it is breathtaking. There is a ghost tour of all the “spookier” historical sites. Personally, I would not bring my 4-year-old here, knowing he would get scared, but every child is different. There is a pirate tour that he would love. There are often discounted tickets on Groupon throughout the year and it’s said to be hilarious and so much fun.

Visit the Beaches

When traveling to Charleston, you have to visit the beaches. There are so many beaches to choose from and islands to visit. Some of the more popular beaches are Folly Beach and Isle of Palms. The sand is soft and the sun is strong. It is a great way to spend a long morning or the entire day. Around the beaches are plenty of stops for food and shopping. Many families love coming out to swim and cool down from the hot summer days.

Charleston has been voted by Southern Living to be the US and Canada’s favorite destination. This beautiful city is full of southern hospitality, entertainment, and endless waterfront views. If you love shopping and are a culinary connoisseur then be ready to meet your match. For all you walkers, the sidewalks are endless and lined with fun little shops. To start planning your trip check out the Charleston website at charlestoncvb.com.

Have you ever been to Charleston? What were your favorite stops? We would love to hear what you thought of it.