Charleston is full of charm and history, making it a wonderful holiday destination. If you’re looking for must-visit restaurants, special holiday happenings, or fun things to do during your stay, look no further! BarGlance has you covered with the holiday guide to Charleston including restaurants, things to do, and of course, our favorite bars.
Making Spirits Bright
At BarGlance, we love our Charleston bars! Holiday pop-up bars have risen in popularity over the past few years. Ordinary bars will convert their bar into a Christmas oasis at night and usually offer festive and unique cocktails. The Gin Joint and Tradesman are transforming their bar into a winter wonderland this season, so you should definitely check them out! And if you’re looking for a more traditional night out, we have some recommendations for that too. Uptown Social is great if you’re looking for a casual, beachy hangout. Sip on a Smoked Lime and Jalapeno Marg on the waterfront at Red’s Ice House. Head to King Street Social House if you’re ballin’ on a budget!
Eat Your Heart Out
We all know that Charleston is known for its food scene. Whether you’re looking for a brunch spot, a fancy dinner place, or a casual hangout, we’ve got you covered.
Brunch
If you’re jonesing for a traditional Southern breakfast, visit Big Bad Breakfast! You’ll be stuffed after their pancakes and huge omelets. Millers All Day is a local favorite for a nicer brunch experience. With a retro vibe and unique twists on breakfast classics, Millers is the place to go! Felix Cocktails et Cuisine is our favorite upscale, French-inspired Southern cuisine, like their famous eggs benedict. Poogan’s Porch is a well-loved brunch spot among locals and tourists. Don’t miss out on the Shecrab Soup or the Pimento Cheese Fritters.
Via Felix
Romantic Dinner Date
Hank’s is a beloved seafood spot in downtown Charleston. It’s a prime place for a romantic night out. They offer a variety of raw bar dishes and are known for their Seafood Tower. Slightly North of Broad (SNOB) is another one of BarGlance’s top picks. This Lowcountry bistro is warm and welcoming, and the food does not disappoint! Get your wallet ready, and be sure to make a reservation. 167 Raw is another romantic date destination. They offer a diverse raw menu, hence the name, and make a mean lobster roll!
Via 167 Raw
Casual Lunch
If you’re a boiled peanut lover, check out Hominy Grill. While you’re waiting for your food, they bring out boiled peanuts in lieu of bread! Fleet Landing is located on the water and serves up unique cocktails to pair with fresh seafood! Leon’s Oyster Shop is a classic. Don’t miss out on their chargrilled oysters that are covered in garlic, butter, and cheese. Xiao Bao Biscuit is a great pick if you’re looking to switch it up from the Lowcountry cuisine.
Via Hominy Grill
Holiday Festivities
The city of Charleston is bustling during the holiday season! The Holiday Festival Of Lights is a walking tour in James Island County Park that takes place through the end of December. With an estimated 2 million twinkling Christmas lights, the festival is the perfect way to spend the night, especially if you have little ones tagging along. Charleston is also known for its horse and buggy tours. For a magical ride around the charming city, schedule a romantic carriage tour for you and your significant other. If your trip takes place during the first few weeks of December, be sure to check out the Charleston Holiday Market in Marion Square for locally grown produce and handmade holiday gifts!
Charleston Classics
Even during the holiday season, we still want to make sure you see your fair share of all that Charleston has to offer. Here’s BarGlance’s “Don’t Miss” list!
The Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park
The Angel Oak Tree
Rainbow Row
Historic Charleston City Market
King Street shopping
BarGlance wishes you nothing but sugar and spice for your holiday Charleston trip! If you’re planning on hitting the town after the day’s festivities, download our live stream nightlife app to “know before you go.”
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