Charleston still has its cannons aimed at Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began, and has elected the same mayor, Joseph Riley, since 1975. It even has some of the country’s most aggressive historic preservation. But that doesn’t mean this charming Southern city has nothing new to offer. There are new galleries on Broad Street, and a festoonery of restaurants, bars and boutique bakeries have transformed the once-struggling design district on upper King Street. Charlestonians, governed by laws of hospitality as incontrovertible as those of gravity, cannot help themselves from sharing their new finds, even if you are “from off,” as those who grew up on this once swampy peninsula refer to outsiders.
“I post this in part as a reminder that it is a fabulous place to visit. If you have not ever been you need to put it on your list…. –KSH.”
That’s for sure.
It is decidedly one of the most all-around pleasant and enjoyable places I’ve ever visited. And it’s easy to get around and see much on foot. The only problem I had with the city was that I immediately wanted to move there.
At my wife’s request we drove off the beaten path on our return from Florida and were able to spend about 5 hours in Charleston this spring. A easy and enjoyable town to walk around even with three youngsters. The time passed too fast. I plan to be back early next year to recall some historical events.
My favorite city in the entire United States. Can’t let a year pass without a visit. Was there twice this year and hope to make it down again this winter (maybe for Mere Anglicanism?).
Can’t help but notice they don’t even mention the USS Yorktown, aka Patriots’ Point, a truly “can’t miss” attraction — and the only place I’ve spent the night in Charleston (so to speak), four nights worth aboard with Scout groups, and I got to preach a Sunday worship in the cavernous theater which was originally the forward elevator.