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While many of us are Googling how to spatchcock a turkey, some of us are looking for where our next sunny escape will be.
The South is teeming with warm-weather getaways, with most travelers focusing their destination on Florida, the aptly named ‘Sunshine State’.
But don’t sleep on what the rest of the South has to offer, where the beautiful coastlines of countless states just scratch the surface.
One of those states with some of the best beaches is none other than South Carolina, and better yet, it’s also home to the South’s trendiest city, where the summer vibes never end.
Winter is a great time to visit as you can explore pastel-colored streets and coastal charm and enjoy epic cuisine Charleston without having to pack a jacket.
Charleston: the cure for your winter blues
Once Thanksgiving is over and your neighborhood starts to light up with Christmas lights and holiday cheer, use that as the first cue to plan your winter getaway.
A majority of the US will experience frigid temperatures for at least a few months, so what better time to plan a trip to one of America’s most fascinating cities?
Aesthetically pleasing, historically captivating, and nearly impossible to have a bad meal, Charleston serves as a sunny weekend getaway at the very least.
With clear blue skies and consistent weather in the 60s and 70s, you can visit the beautiful beaches, wander the postcard-worthy streets or simply relax with a cocktail in hand on a variety of restaurant patios.
Although Charleston has Uber, many say the best way to explore Charleston’s sights is on foot, or perhaps an old-fashioned carriage ride through the historic district.
Here you will find insightful museums such as Joseph Manigault House ($15 admission) and the The old Slave Market Museum ($8 admission), America’s first African-American slave museum.
Although many choose to get around on a scenic bike ride through the blissful sea breeze along coastal paths.
Move over New Orleans! Charleston is the ultimate place to party
The South knows how to eat! Culinary icons such as New Orleans, Miami, Austin and last but not least Charleston showcase some of the South’s best flavors.
Charleston, however, is on a different level. Love and pride are not found in cookbooks, but you can find them on the tables in Charleston.
Take in one of the city’s most famous restaurants, PeelFor example. The menu is constantly evolving, giving new life to southern ingredients.
With a variety of unique cornbread concoctions, locally sourced seafood, and Southern staples like collard greens, you know you can’t go wrong.
It’s a rare kind of place where Michelin-star judges might as well throw up their hands and award stars to any restaurant.
Charleston also has a vibrant craft beer scene with dozens of popular breweries to choose from. Oh well, there are even those beer cruises.
Sometimes the timelessness of Charleston overshadows the beaches, but don’t forget that this is a city where you can wine and dine with some of the best seafood in the country.
Circle your calendar for the 41st annual Lowcountry oyster festival takes place on February 2, 2025.
Explore timeless streets with virtually no crowds
Charleston is a hip place in the spring and summer, so take advantage of the empty cobblestone streets this time of year for the best photo opportunities.
Listed on AFARs’12 best places to travel in winter‘, Charleston’s preserved cityscape and beautiful weather make it stand out as one of the best places in the US to vacation.
Charleston is divided into numerous districts, but these 5 neighborhoods are absolute musts during your trip:
- French Quarter: a shrunken version of New Orleans’ most famous neighborhood with historic homes, churches and beautiful shops.
- South of Breed: offers great views of the water and Rainbow Row, a row of colorful 18th-century houses
- Harleston village: lively area with trendy restaurants and old-fashioned inns John Rutledge House Inn
- Folly Beach: relaxed beaches with trendy bars and restaurants
- Koningstraat: vibrant area full of nightlife, trendy restaurants and boutiques
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
