As proud citizens and business owners in Charleston, SC, we at Ashbusters love living in this beautiful Southern town. With historical mansions and plantations, gorgeous beaches, unique shopping spots, and Civil War monuments, our town has something for everyone. In fact, Charleston is very popular as it has been named the number one city in the United States and Canada for two consecutive years by Travel + Leisure in its 2013 and 2014 World’s Best Awards. In 2014, it also placed second as the best city in the world in its annual readers’ poll. Ranked by sights and landmarks, art and culture, restaurants and food, people, and value, Charleston has been named a top North American travel destination for the past four years by a leading national magazine. We would like to share with you some of our favorite places in Charleston so you can see why our city is so well-liked.
The Battery Neighborhood
Formerly the heart and soul of Charleston Harbor’s waterfront activity, this stretch of historical Southern homes attracts people of every age and is called by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best scenic places to park and admire the Ashley River flowing into the harbor. This neighborhood features several attractions, including White Point Gardens, where you will find Civil War relics and monuments, and the 12-acre Waterfront Park, home to the famous giant pineapple fountain pictured on many Charleston postcards.
Charleston City Market
Filled with stalls selling clothes, toys, leather goods, and regional souvenirs, the Charleston City Market is a bustling outdoor market that dates back to 1804. Hailed as the number one tourist attraction in our city, this market is a great place to buy local souvenirs and to sample local cuisine. We recommend you visit the “basket ladies” to purchase a historical sweetgrass basket. Handmade from bulrush, a strong yet supple grass that thrives in the sandy soil of this region, sweetgrass baskets are among the country’s most prized local souvenirs. We love the Charleston City Market as a fun spot to people watch, but we advise you to be careful when buying souvenirs as some vendors will try to sell you overpriced trinkets.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
While Charleston is home to several historical plantations, we recommend the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens to our visitors who love nature. A great spot to see local wildlife, you can find alligators, otters, and turtles in the Audubon Swamp Garden and local birds at the waterfowl refuge. Nature lovers will also enjoy the biking trails and the horticultural maze. A petting zoo makes the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens a favorite place to take the kids. Other historical plantations and mansions in Charleston include Middleton Place with its impressive collection of antique furniture and Drayton Hall, one of the oldest surviving plantations left in the South.
Folly Beach
Located 12 miles south of downtown Charleston, this stretch of clean sand and a variety of seashells makes for a lovely day trip for relaxing in the sun. You will see surfers, swimmers, and fishermen enjoying Folly Beach. Its friendly atmosphere and beautiful scenery makes Folly Beach one of our favorite destinations.
Want to know more about our beautiful, historical city? Contact Ashbusters today to learn more about Charleston.