Charleston Getaway WeekendA Charleston getaway makes a great women's weekend. The shopping, the restaurants, the lovely architecture and neighborhoods - and of course, the pleasant weather - make for a really relaxing getaway with "the girls".
I spent a couple of days in Charleston with my sisters a couple of years ago; our week's vacation was in Hilton Head and we visited Savannah, too - but I liked Charleston the best!
Getting to CharlestonGetting to Charleston is relatively easy whether you fly or drive. All of the major airlines service Charleston International Airport, just outside the city. Amtrak also services Charleston, with its east coast lines. But if you're in the vicinity, driving is easy, with some nice scenery along the way. We took smaller roads along the coastline from Hilton Head, which took longer but was a very pleasant drive. Where to StayThe Doubletree Guest Suites is a moderately priced in the heart of the historic district offering spacious rooms and suites within walking distance of City Market and other shops. Walk to shops and restaurants on King Street, wander Waterfront Park, enjoy antebellum mansions with hidden gardens, Rainbow Row, and much more! The perfect location for a Charleston getaway. For a more elegant experience, try The French Quarter Inn, an historic inn that, like the Doubletree, is within walking distance of everything you'll love about Charleston (it's on the same street as the Doubletree!). The French Quarter Inn oozes Southern charm, with champagne upon arrival, wine and cheese in the afternoon, and milk and cookies at night. It's a wonderful destination for a girl's weekend, and they'll give you a little extra attention if you're celebrating a birthday or other milestone. Ask for spa recommendations, carriage rides, or shopping tips - they're happy to help! What to Do When You Get There
History, shopping, and sightseeing are among the activities you can enjoy on your Charleston getaway - along with the lovely Southern architecture and gardens! City Market, a series of open-air stalls and small shops, has everything from fresh food to boutiques and souvenirs. You can see women weaving seagrass baskets they way they've been made for centuries (and purchase one to take home!), enjoy lunch at an outdoor cafe, and pick up a few trinkets for friends and family. 
Wandering the historic district on foot, you'll find shops and restaurants along King Street; or take a carriage ride and see the lovely homes and gardens. Don't miss Rainbow Row, where each home is painted a different, pastel color! The Battery, a park where the rivers meet, has an historic cannon facing Fort Sumter, visible across the river. Another park has a large Angel Oak - a lovely sight! There a lots of walking, carriage, trolley or bus tours that focus on the history of the area, or fun ghost or pirate tours! And after a long day of shopping and sightseeing, what could be better than a spa visit? There are many to choose from; get a recommendation from your hotel concierge for one near you. Where - and What - To Eat in CharlestonWhat to eat on a Charleston getaway weekend? Seafood!! Being from the midwest, fresh seafood is such a treat, I can't resist. The she-crab soup is phenomenal! Southern cooking - from grits to peach cobbler - is a real treat, and you'll find some of the best in traditional Southern cuisine in Charleston. One of the finest, and best known, restaurants in Charleston, Pooghan's Porch is famous for it's upscale Lowcountry cuisine. Housed in an old Victorian home in the historic district, the restaurant has an elegant decor, and a menu offering biscuts and gravy to pecan-encrusted catfish. The Swamp Fox Restaurant and Bar, overlooking Marion Square on King Street, also offers fine Lowcountry cooking, specializing in shrimp and grits. You can enjoy jazz on the weekends, and meals made from the farmer's market in season. For a more casual dining experience, try Sticky Fingers Smokehouse. Memphis-style barbecue ribs, pulled port, smoked chicken, with mac and cheese, sweet potato fries - and peach cobbler! I've eaten at Sticky Fingers, and absolutely loved it. While browsing the City Market, stop in the Market Street Bakery and Cafe for a quick (and inexpensive) bite; or wander over to King Street to Ye Olde Fashioned Ice Cream and Sandwich Cafe (I know, it's the kind of name you'd shy away from - but don't! It's a nice place to get a quick sandwich or snack without breaking the bank!) To take some of the sting out of the prices at upscale restaurants, Buy Restaurant.com Gift Certificates! A Charleston getaway is perfect for a sister's trip, girlfriend getaway or multi-generational family get-together. It's relaxed pace and lovely surroundings encourage relaxation, conversation, and re-connecting with those close to you.
What Are Your Favorite Things to Do On a Weekend Getaway?
Where do you like to spend a weekend getaway? What do you like to do, where do you stay, what are your favorite restaurants? Where Would You Like to Go Next?For more weekend getaways:
Boston Weekend Getaway Chicago Weekend Getaway Miami Weekend Getaway Milwaukee Weekend Getaway New York Weekend Getaway Phoenix Weekend Getaway San Francisco Weekend Getaway return from Charleston Getaway Weekend to Great Women's Vacations
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