Explore Charleston in December For The Ultimate Holiday Experience

Charleston, South Carolina is a beautiful city with plenty to do and see for tourists looking for a memorable holiday experience. With its mild winter climate, Charleston is the perfect place to visit during the month of December, when temperatures stay mild and the city is bustling with holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift, delicious local cuisine, or an unforgettable experience, Charleston is a great destination for the holidays. Here’s a look at some of the best things to do in Charleston in December.

Visit the Holiday Markets

Charleston’s holiday markets are one of the city’s best attractions during the month of December. With numerous different markets to choose from, you’ll find everything from unique handmade gifts to delicious treats. Some of the most popular markets in Charleston include the Holiday Market at Marion Square, the Holiday Market on King Street, and the Holiday Flea at the Navy Yard. These markets offer a festive atmosphere and the perfect opportunity to pick up the perfect holiday gift.

Explore the Historic District

Charleston’s Historic District is a must-visit during the month of December. With its cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and charming atmosphere, this area is the perfect place to take a stroll and take in the holiday spirit. Be sure to check out some of the city’s best attractions, such as the Charleston City Market, the Battery, and the Calhoun Mansion. You can also find plenty of great places to eat, shop, and explore along the waterfront.

Check Out a Holiday Festival

Charleston is home to a variety of different holiday festivals throughout the month of December. From the downtown Christmas Parade to the annual Holiday Festival of Lights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Other popular festivals include the Holiday on the Harbor, the Holiday Boat Parade, and the Kwanzaa Celebration.

Enjoy a Holiday Show

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the holidays, be sure to check out one of Charleston’s holiday shows. From musicals to live theater to holiday-themed events, there’s something for everyone. Popular shows include the Charleston Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker, the Charleston Opera’s A Christmas Carol, and the Charleston Stage’s Elf.

Take a Holiday Tour

One of the best ways to learn more about the city is to take a holiday tour. From walking tours to carriage tours to boat tours, there are plenty of options to choose from. Popular holiday tours include the Holiday Lights Tour, the Holiday Shopping Tour, and the Christmas Caroling Tour.

Visit a Plantation

Charleston is home to a variety of historic plantation homes that are open for tours during the month of December. Some of the most popular plantations include Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Booger Swamp Plantation, Middleton Place, Drayton Hall, and McLeod Plantation. These plantations offer a unique way to experience the holidays, with spectacular grounds and unique holiday decorations.

Take a Boat Cruise

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the holidays, consider taking a boat cruise. From sightseeing cruises to dinner cruises to holiday light cruises, there’s something for everyone. Some of the most popular boat cruises include the Holiday Lights Cruise, the Dinner Cruise, and the Charleston Harbor Cruise.

Experience the Magic of the Holidays

No matter how you choose to experience the holidays in Charleston, one thing is certain—you’ll be sure to find plenty of magic and holiday cheer. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift, delicious local cuisine, or an unforgettable experience, Charleston is the perfect destination for the holidays. So, come explore the beauty of Charleston in December and experience the magic of the season!

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Charleston, SC: Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine, and Unique Experiences

Charleston, a city known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and incredible food, is the perfect year-round destination. But if you’re visiting in December, it’s a time when the city is bursting with festive cheer. With this guide, you’ll go beyond the conventional tourist spots and discover Charleston’s hidden gems, local cuisine, and unique cultural experiences.

Local Attractions

Beyond the well-known landmarks like Rainbow Row and the Battery, there are many hidden gems in Charleston. Take a walk through the historic French Quarter district, home to beautiful churches and art galleries, or visit the Nathaniel Russell House, which gives a peek into the life of a wealthy Charleston family during the antebellum era.

To get a feel for the city’s bohemian side, head to Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, where you’ll find eclectic shops and unique galleries. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll be glad to know that the Angel Oak Park is just a short drive away from the city. Its majestic oak tree is said to be over 400 years old, making it a must-visit spot.

Dining Spots

Charleston is renowned for its culinary scene, known for its seafood, Lowcountry-style cuisine, and farm-to-table fare. For some classic Southern soul food, head to Bertha’s Kitchen, a local favorite renowned for its mouth-watering fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens.

If you’re a seafood lover, be sure to try out Leon’s Oyster Shop, known for its impeccably fresh oysters and fried chicken sandwiches. Don’t miss Butcher & Bee, where you can indulge in some of the best sandwiches in the city, featuring a fusion of Middle Eastern and Southern flavors.

For dessert, visit Kaminsky’s, a dessert bar offering a range of decadent cakes, pies, and pastries, or Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, where you can sample unique flavors like Sweet Potato with Torched Marshmallows and Gooey Butter Cake.

Cultural Experiences

To get a taste of Charleston’s cultural milieu, head to the Gibbes Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of 18th-century American art, works on paper, and contemporary art. If you’re a history buff, take a stroll through the Charleston City Market, where you’ll find vendors selling local handicrafts, clothing, and sweetgrass baskets.

If you’re in town between December 1st to December 31st, don’t miss out on the Holiday Festival of Lights, where the Charleston peninsula is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights. The festival also features live music, roasting marshmallows, and hot cocoa.

Local History

Charleston has a fascinating history that spans centuries, and the best way to experience it is by visiting some of the city’s historic landmarks. Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum, which tells the story of Charleston’s slave trade, or take a tour of Middleton Place, a meticulously maintained plantation that has been in the same family for generations.

If you’re a literary buff, stop by the Dock Street Theatre, the first building in America designed specifically for theatrical performances, which has seen everything from Shakespeare’s plays to performances by the Beach Boys.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to create lasting memories in Charleston, try some unique experiences that are not for the faint of heart. The Charleston Ghost and Dungeon Walking Tour is a spine-chilling stroll through some of the city’s most historic and haunted locations, while the Charleston Food Tours offer the ultimate culinary exploration of the city’s unique food culture.

For something offbeat, take a yoga class on a rooftop while overlooking Charleston’s skyline, or book a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city’s streets, a quintessential Charleston experience.

As you can see, Charleston has much to offer beyond the worn-out tourist clichés. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a lover of the arts, the Holy City is sure to impress. With this insider’s guide, you’re bound to have a unique experience that will stay with you long after you leave.