- karenkirk@clandestintravel.com
- (239) 415-3731
1. The Gibbes Museum
Home to a premier collection of American art that incorporates the story of Charleston, the Gibbes is the perfect place to find inspiration and explore the stories of the South through painting, sculpture, photography, and more. A highlight of the museum is the Miniature Portrait collection. The first American miniature portraits were painted in Charleston, and the Gibbes is home to more than 600, spanning nearly 200 years.
2. Charleston City Market
Located in the heart of downtown Charleston on Meeting Street, City Market is home to a flurry of vendors selling toys, clothing, leather goods, and regional souvenirs. To learn about, experience, and purchase one of Charleston’s oldest products, head to the “basket ladies.” Women use a weaving technique originating in West Africa and passed down through generations. Each basket is made with local materials like sweet grass and palmetto leaves.
3. Charleston Bicycle Tours
One of the best ways to explore Charleston is on two wheels. Bicycles allow you to take in all the sights and cover more ground than walking. Experience low country architecture as you cycle through historic neighborhoods and wind your way past local restaurants, art galleries, and shops.
4. Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
As one of the oldest and most photographed working plantations, Boone Hall frames Charleston’s beautiful landscape while also allowing guests an opportunity to learn about the history and inner workings of a large Southern plantation. A natural corridor of live oak trees mark the plantation house entrance and were first planted by the son of Major John Boone in 1743. The plantation originally produced cotton and pecans, but now grows strawberries, tomatoes, pumpkins, and other fruits. Don’t miss the amazing butterfly pavilion with numerous species.
5. Self-Guided Tour of Shepard Fairey Murals
Known for his 2008 Obama “Hope” posters, street artist and activist Shepard Fairey is a Charleston native and features large works scattered throughout town. Take a self-guided tour of some of his hometown creations or check out the Halsey Institute’s Shepard Fairey collection. Start the self-guided Shepard Fairey tour at Groucho’s Deli and you’ll end it at the High Wire Distilling complex.