Charleston differs from other small-city destinations in the US because it is a hotbed of things to do and sights to see. Whether you are traveling for work or play, 24 hours is a very small time frame to work with. The key to seeing all that you want and not wasting time on tourist traps is knowing ahead of time what locals do and staying away from things that are more hype than worth it. These are our Charleston Bed & Breakfast picks for a 24-hour whirlwind.
Start with Breakfast
If you are going to see the city at its greatest, it is going to start on foot. Most of Charleston’s greatest sights are in the downtown area. Since you are going to be doing a lot of walking, it is best to load up before hitting the road. If you are staying at The Ashley, we offer a grab-and-go breakfast that can tide you over for a bit, but our recommendation is that you stop at Toast and get your fill so you will have enough energy to go from dusk until dawn.
Corner of the French Quarter
The French Quarter is a small, quaint part of Charleston’s historic district, named for many who made Charleston their new home due to religious persecution. While in the French Quarter:
Stop at the Dock Street Theater
Whether you are a theater nut or not, you will love the Dock Street Theater. It is the first theater in the US, built specifically as a playhouse in the 1730s. It has been preserved and renovated many times over the past several hundred years, but its exterior has continued to be an iconic symbol of the deep tradition of Charleston’s cityscape.
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church
If there is one thing that Charleston is long on, it is churches. St. Michael’s is the oldest church in Charleston and is one of the most frequently photographed locations in Charleston and surrounding areas.
The Old Slave Mart
Charleston is also known for its Southern roots, which includes a part of our history that should not be forgotten. The Old Slave Mart is a must for anyone who visits the Holy City. It is one of the first and only African-American museums and is situated in a building that was originally was slave auctions were held up until 1863. The building showcases artifacts, posters, and information about slave life from former slaves.
The Charleston City Market
If you want to get a glimpse of local artistry and artisans, then the Charleston City Market is an absolute must. The City Market is not only a place where you can pick up some trinkets; you can also catch local talent lining the streets singing their hearts out and entertaining the masses.
Fort Sumter
Fort Sumter is where the first shots of the American Civil War were heard around the nation. You can choose a self-guided tour or take the one-hour tour to hear more about its historical significance and points of interest.
Ghost Tour
If there is one thing that should not be missed, it is a ghost tour of the city. Whether you want to do a midnight ride or you’d rather see the graveyards and hear scary stories by the light of day, you will definitely not want to miss the “nightlife” of Charleston – which is entirely different from the nightlife of bars and restaurants.
If you only have 24 hours to see Charleston, then make them worthwhile. The good news is that everything is close by and if you plan it properly, you can see nearly all that you want without sacrifice. However, if you decide to extend your trip, then The Ashley is a must. Not only is it a Bed & Breakfast in Charleston; it offers the most comfortable stay possible. Contact us to reserve your hotel room for 2023 today!
