Posted on 2/28/2024 by Jessie Jacob

24 Hours in Charleston

The month of March is a beautiful time to be in Charleston.

The cold snap has passed, the flowers are blooming, and traffic is still relatively quiet. Whether you're here for Spring Break, or just for a weekend, we've planned out a full day of adventure for you in the Charleston area!


8:00 AM:

Breakfast at Sea Biscuit Cafe

Rise and shine! The best way to start the day is with a good breakfast, and we couldn't think of a better place to do so than Sea Biscuit Cafe over on J C Long Boulevard. Sea Biscuit is a quaint and cozy little cafe in the Front Beach district of Isle of Palms. Have a seat and read the paper while you enjoy your morning coffee, and get ready for the rest of your day. They're also serving up your breakfast favs like biscuits and gravy, pancakes, avocado toast, and more!

Tips from the locals:

This spot is cash-only, but they have an ATM conveniently located outside of the restaurant!

What we'd recommend:

The Crabcake Eggs Benedict, or The Treehugger (Homemade granola, Vanilla Yogurt, and Fresh Fruit) for a lighter bite!

10:00 am:

Walk the Gardens at Magnolia Plantation

After breakfast, it's time to head out for the rest of the day!  Just across the Ashley River is Magnolia Plantation. It's a little bit of a drive from Isle of Palms, but the scenic drive and the gorgeous gardens that await you are worth the trip. There is such a wide variety of flowers here that no matter when you visit, something is blooming. Personally, we think March is the best time to go. The weather is just right and the crowds that come with peak season haven't arrived yet. Take a peaceful stroll through the garden or a tour through the historic plantation house to get a feel for what life was like for the Drayton Family in the 17th/18th Centuries.

Tips from the locals:

Take the Rice Field Boat Tour for a special view of the plantation and a great break from walking!

What's blooming in March:

Bradford Pears, Carolina Jessamine, Japanese Flowering Cherry, Poppies, Roses, Snapdragons, Tea Olives, Wisteria, and more!

1:00 pm:

Stop for Lunch on John's Island

On your way back from the gardens, make a pit stop on John's Island. For a lunch that's sure to hit the spot, visit The Tattooed Moose! There are several different sandwiches such as the Mike's Famous Duck Club and The Lowcountry Cuban to choose from. If you're looking for lighter fare, choose from a selection of salads and soups instead.

Tip from the locals:

After lunch, drive 5 minutes down the road to the famous Angel Oak Tree! This tree is estimated to be between 400-500 years old and is always a beautiful sight to see.

What we'd recommend:

Mike's Famous Duck Club and a basket of Roasted Garlic & Bleu Cheese Duck Fat Fries!

4:00 pm:

End the Day with Happy Hour Downtown

Wind down after a jam-packed day with drinks at one of Charleston's many bars. Whether you prefer the Upper King Street scene or a rooftop along the Charleston harbor, you can't go wrong.

Tip from the locals:

It may be 5:00 somewhere, but many local happy hours start at 4:00! Most places have amazing deals on drinks and bar bites, and it's a great way to end the evening while you're on vacation.


What we'd recommend:

 The happy hour at Uptown Social on the corner of King and Spring St. is a great choice, with the full bar ½ price from 4-7 p.m. (with some limitations), and $2 sliders.


For a waterfront option, try The Rooftop at the Vendue with ½ off select food items, $4 domestic beers, $5 well liquors, and $6 house wines.

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