Spend a weekend in Charleston, South Carolina with Old Whaling Co.! Read along as we discuss some of our favorite things to do with our guests in the Holy City. Whether you're here for a night or a long weekend, there are plenty of activities to fill your days with charm, history, and coastal beauty. From local markets to historic landmarks and waterfront dining, let’s explore how to make the most of your Charleston getaway.
Friday Night: Markets, Rooftops, & Southern Cuisine
Picture Credit: Charleston City Market
Start your weekend by immersing yourself in Charleston’s thriving local artisan scene at the Charleston City Night Market! Taking place every Friday and Saturday night from 6:30pm to 10:30pm, the open-air Charleston City Market transforms into a hub of handmade treasures. The day vendors wrap up around 6:00pm, making room for new local artisans, musicians, and craftspeople creating only handmade items. This tradition is close to our hearts at Old Whaling Co., as we actually started as a night vendor over 13 years ago! It remains one of the best places to find locally made products, art, and souvenirs to take home as a memory of your trip.
After perusing the market, stroll down East Bay Street to discover some of Charleston’s finest dining experiences. Slightly North of Broad (S.N.O.B.) is a must-visit, offering Southern staples with a modern twist, don’t miss their classic shrimp and grits! For those craving seafood, Hank’s Seafood Restaurant serves up some of the freshest catches in the city. If you’re in the mood for a post-dinner drink with a view, The Vendue or Pavilion Hotel rooftops located on East Bay Street provide spectacular panoramic views of Charleston’s skyline, making them perfect spots to toast the beginning of your weekend.
Saturday in the Holy City
Saturdays are the most vibrant and bustling days in Charleston, so we recommend starting early! Beat the morning shopping rush by taking a short drive to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, one of the city’s most historic and picturesque landmarks. Established in 1676, this preserved plantation offers a deeper dive into Charleston’s cultural and architectural history. You will find some of the most stunning curated gardens and oak tree-lined paths in the South. We recommend taking in the beautiful views that the marsh has to offer, while learning more about the important history that has shaped Charleston into the wonderfully diverse destination it is today.
After a peaceful morning, head back downtown to King Street, Charleston’s premier shopping district. Lined with everything from high-end boutiques to charming local shops, King Street is the perfect place to pick up unique gifts, home decor, and stylish fashion finds! Stop by Old Whaling Co. at 409 King Street to shop our collection of coastal-inspired bath and body products, or grab a quick coffee at The Rise Coffee Bar or Kudu Coffee for a mid-morning energy boost.
Stroll down King Street to take a left at Broad Street, and get a glimpse of businesses and their buildings that have been standing for hundreds of years. Continue straight until you hit East Bay Street, take a right, and you have arrived at Rainbow Row and The Battery. These two landmarks are some of Charleston’s most iconic areas. The pastel-colored homes of Rainbow Row make for a perfect photo opportunity, while the waterfront views at The Battery provide a peaceful way to feel the breeze and spot sailboats in the harbor. As the evening rolls in, enjoy a waterfront dinner at Fleet Landing, known for its seafood and waterfront views, or indulge in an upscale meal at The Ordinary, a beautifully restored bank-turned-oyster bar serving some of the most creative seafood dishes in the city.
Sunday Funday
No Charleston weekend is complete without Sunday brunch, and there’s no shortage of incredible options. Head to Halls Chophouse on King Street (reservations recommended!) for their popular Gospel Brunch, where live music and decadent Southern dishes make for an unforgettable experience. If you’re craving something coastal, The Darling Oyster Bar serves up delicious brunch cocktails and seafood in a charming atmosphere.
After brunch, take a short drive to Folly Beach to enjoy Charleston’s stunning coastline. Soak up the sun, walk along the water, or grab a casual bite at any of the small restaurants by the shore. Did you know Charleston’s beaches are known for their treasures? Look down to find full sand dollars and maybe even a shark tooth! Watch out for sea turtle landing sites, which will be marked off, providing the public with a safe view of their natural egg-laying habitat.
For the afternoon, consider a harbor cruise or sailing adventure to see Charleston from a different perspective. Take a sunset cruise on the Schooner Pride, a dolphin-spotting tour, or a rent a kayak at Shem Creek. Getting out on the water is one of the best ways to experience the city.
Plan Your Next Visit!
Charleston is a city that blends history, charm, and coastal beauty, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re indulging in southern cuisine, exploring historic landmarks, shopping local treasures, or relaxing by the water, there’s something for everyone. We hope to see you at Old Whaling Co. during your visit- stop by our shops to take home a little piece of Charleston. "Sea" you soon!
