Named “Best Small City in the U.S.” by Condé Nast Traveler and “The World’s Best City” by Travel + Leisure, Charleston is a must-visit no matter where you're from. Today, it's the proud home of James Beard award-winning chefs, Boeing and BMW production plants, and new bucket list-worthy hotels and restaurants.

But Charleston is so much more than a hot spot for wining and dining. It's become the second largest wedding destination capital in the United States—only behind Las Vegas, and it's the city our founder Alexandra Macon chose to open the first-ever Over The Moon store. After years in New York City, she returned to her hometown with her family in tow and set up shop at The Charleston Place.

So, drawing from our own experience and calling upon a few of the most in-the-know influencers for their input, we’ve put together an Over The Moon–approved guide for where to stay, what to do, where to shop, and most importantly, what to eat. Enjoy your visit!

Where to Stay

The Charleston Place The Charleston Place is located right in the heart of downtown. Spanning the width of a city block, with King Street on one side and Meeting Street on the other, you can’t get any more conveniently located than this. It's the perfect place to host a wedding weekend; check out our destination wedding guide at The Charleston Place. And even more importantly, it's where the Over The Moon shop is!

The Dewberry The luxury hotel is situated across from Marion Square Park. Designed by Workstead, the space offers a bit of modernity in the midst of the historic district and has a popular bar for post-work drinks and get-togethers. "I can’t say enough wonderful things about The Dewberry," Jillian Eversole says. "I love every aspect of my stays there, including the perfect mid-century design aesthetic, the comfortable rooms, the divine food and drink options, the impeccable service, and the spa. You can find me nestled here in the Living Room bar with friends and family a lot."

The Dunlin Venture a little farther from the heart of town and take a trip to Charleston's sea islands. Avoid the hustle and bustle of King Street and visit the banks of the Kiawah River instead. Each of the 72 guest rooms has been designed by Amanda Lindroth and reflect her whimsical sense of decor, complete with rattan. Our tip? Enjoy a nightcap on the spacious porch and take in the marshland nightlife and riverfront view. When shooting our 2025 summer campaign with our Cara Cara exclusives, there was no better setting to serve as our backdrop.

Emeline“A record player in every suite; a delicious restaurant and coffee shop in the lobby; an impossibly chic design . . . if you stay at Emeline you may never want to leave!” Megan Pinckney says. Nestled in Charleston's historic district, the building dates back to 1852. The hotel is steeped in nostalgia, from the vintage decor to the vinyl record collection of 500 and counting.

Planters Inn With beautifully decorated rooms, this Relais & Chateaux property is nothing but luxury and probably the swankiest hotel in town. Be sure to make a reservation at the in-house Peninsula Grill.

Photo: Sloan Photography / Courtesy of Zero George Street

Zero George Hotel Set amidst a private landscaped courtyard, this boutique hotel is really five restored historic residential buildings. With accommodations featuring contemporary décor and furnishings, it’s a spot frequented by bloggers. Just ask Jillian: "This is one of my favorite hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying at," Jillian says. "It's a little slice of heaven nestled away on George Street (hence its name). Known for its distinct personality, charming rooms, delicious food, and impeccable service, it's simply divine." Grace Atwood adds, "My new favorite thing is The Caviar and Champagne Bar." Situated on the piazza overlooking the gardens, the decadent culinary experience is the latest on a long list of reasons to love Zero George.

Where to Eat

COFFEE / SWEETS:

Alcove Market Part neighborhood grocer, part café, Alcove Market is stocked with local provisions, fresh sandwiches, and a curated selection of pantry staples. It's ideal fare for grabbing picnic supplies before a day of exploring the town.

Babas Everyone swears by the coffee beans at Babas, which has not one but two locations. Venita Aspen likes to stop by "Babas on Cannon Street for in-and-out" service and "Babas on Meeting Street for vibes." There's delectable bites at both; Grace suggests the ham-and-butter sandwich, avocado toast, and deviled eggs.

Christophe Artisan Chocolatier Think of the movie Chocolat with Johnny Depp. It’s like that, but in the South, not France. These luxury artisanal chocolatiers also have a collection of hand-painted chocolates, macaroons, and fine chocolate truffles that make for great gifts. They ship, too!

The Daily With Stumptown coffee, cold-pressed juice, and breakfast sandwiches, The Daily has everything one could want in the A.M.

Harken Cafe & Bakery A cozy café tucked away in a historic building on Queen Street, Harken is beloved for its excellent coffee, creative pastries, and warm, inviting interiors. Perfect for a quiet breakfast or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Jeni’s Ice Cream There’s often a short line, but it moves quickly and the wait is worth it. Try their peanut butter and jelly sundae.

Off Track Ice Cream You can also satisfy your sweet tooth at Off Track Ice Cream, where you'll find traditional and vegan options in classic and inventive flavors made from scratch. On the vegan side of the menu, Venita highly recommends the cold-brew honeycomb.

The Rise Coffee Shop at The Restoration Hotel This is newly opened and an obvious morning go-to if you’re staying at The Restoration.

Photo: Blog Appétit / Courtesy of Sugar Bakeshop

Sugar Bakeshop Opened by a couple who moved to Charleston from New York City (they actually live in the house attached to the bakery), this sweet bakeshop is a fun stop for a treat.

Weltons Tiny Bakeshop True to name, this bakery occupies 956 square feet of the first floor of a little house on King Street. Started by couple Hannah and Zachary Welton, the bakery uses every square inch and packs in flavor with each bite of their naturally leavened baked goods.

DRINKS:

Bar167Just off lower King Street in historic Charleston, you’ll find one of our favorite Mediterranean spots. Enjoy local fare and East Coast seafood, along with the top-notch raw bar or visit Bar167’s sister restaurant, 167Raw.

Citrus Club"When the sun goes down, you can find me at Citrus Club for tropical cocktails and the best rooftop views in the city," Jillian says. Perched on top of the Dewberry, the mid-century spot is the highest public viewpoint in Charleston. While the indoor lounge is ultra-chic, the outdoor terrace is its calling card and offers a 360-degree steepled skyline and sea-skimming view.

The Gin Joint This is a cozy, intimate bar and eatery serving cocktails and eclectic small plates in a 1920s-inspired setting. The bartenders really take time crafting their artisanal cocktails. If you don’t know exactly what you want, you have the option to pick a few adjectives off of their menu and the bartender will make you something custom.

Graft Wine ShopRun by two sommeliers and friends, Graft offers an approachable but well-curated selection of wines, plus small plates to share. A great place to discover your next favorite bottle. If you’re still hungry, pop next door to Tutti’s for some delicious New York style pizza.

La CaveFor a taste of Provençal-style cooking, try La Cave. Despite the extensive wine menu, La Cave is an approachable and laidback sipping lounge and salon privé that brings the culinary interpretations of the South of France to King Street. Order one of the handcrafted cocktails for the full experience.

Little PalmInside the Ryder Hotel is this darling joint, hailing from the same proprietors of the world-famous Manhattan bar Death & Co. And just like that, we’re ready for a dip in the pool, which, thankfully, isn’t too far from the bar.

Maison MadisonThe new Champagne and caviar bar is what dreams are made of. Owner Madison Kenner found inspiration in London’s most exclusive clubs and hotels when opening Maison Madison. She successfully brought that intrigue, sophistication, and cheeky fun to Charleston.

BRUNCH & LUNCH:

Basic Kitchen "Healthy but delicious," is how Grace sums up her favorite lunch spot. "I like to sit outside on the back patio. There is so much fried food in Charleston, and that's great, but sometimes you just want a salad or something healthy. This is where you go for that."

Burbage’s Self-Serve Grocery The no-fuss grocery store on Broad Street has been family-owned for over 65 years. Grab-and-go items include delicious homemade BBQ sandwiches and fresh soups.

Photo: Courtesy of Goat. Sheep. Cow.

Goat. Sheep. Cow. Gourmet specialty cheese shop on Church Street in Charleston’s historic south of Broad neighborhood featuring artisanal cheeses and wines, plus a daily sandwich that regulars call-in to order ahead as it always sells out in hours. There’s also a second location of Goat. Sheep. Cow. on Meeting Street that immediately transports you to Europe. The selection of cheese and wines can’t be beat. Follow them on Instagram and suddenly you’re immediately hungry.

The Post House This coastal tavern and inn on Mount Pleasant is also a restaurant and bar with seasonal fare and classic cocktails in a setting that feels like a home away from home. “I like everything on the menu, and I always run into a friend,” Chassity Evans says. The outdoor patio is perfect for alfresco dining and has made it a popular choice for wedding receptions. Better yet, host your wedding party in the seven cozy hotel rooms upstairs, each with a unique interior design aesthetic.

DINNER:

167 Raw This place is always buzzing with locals and visitors alike. The main restaurant is located on King Street and offers a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual meal or a fun night out. They have one of the best lobster rolls in the city, so it’s worth going out of your way and waiting for a table (if need be). Or, make like Jillian and wait at Bin 152, the rustic-cool wine bar located nearby. “If my husband and I are seeking a casual night out, then we never tire of putting our names in at 167 Raw before popping down the street to indulge in wine and cheese at Bin 152,” Jillian says. “We never skip on the margaritas at 167 Raw either!” For more variety, check out their other concepts—Bar 167 on Fulton Street for cocktails and small plates, or the more intimate Sushi Bar on East Bay Street.

Chez Nous "When my husband and I are celebrating a special occasion, we don’t think there is anywhere better in town than Chez Nous," Jillian says. "The French menu changes daily, so the food is always a surprise, but the most delicious surprise in the city. The atmosphere is romantic and magical with the perfect warm glow."

Chubby FishTake it from Grace and get to Chubby Fish early, between 4:30 p.m. and 4:45 p.m., to put your name down at this popular sustainable seafood restaurant, which is first come first serve. "Grab a beer at the bar around the corner and be prepared for one of the best meals of your life," she says. While the menu changes daily, it never disappoints. "The caviar sammie is beyond, the steak tartare is heaven (it’s prepared nori style, so you eat it like a little sushi style wrap), and I love the bluefin tataki!"

Coastal Crust James IslandFamily-friendly with an incredible happy hour and wood-fired pizzas, this laidback spot has something for everyone, adults and kids alike. Try the oyster mushroom pizza—just trust us!

Photo: Dan Q Dao / Courtesy of The Darling

The Darling Oyster Bar Located on King Street, this very chic oyster bar is perfect for drinks and dinner.

Edmund’s Oast This is a hip, loft-like spot offering New American fare, beer brewed on-site, and craft cocktails—plus, there's a patio.

FIG With its elevated take on southern classics, many think this restaurant serves up the best meal in town. And it's often worth just sliding in at the bar even if you can’t get a reservation.

The Grocery This neighborhood spot is known for its fresh menu packed with seasonal ingredients available from local and regional farmers and fishermen.

Husk The restaurant in a Victorian-era home on Queen Street is owned by well-known award-winning Chef Sean Brock. This well-known spot specializing in southern cuisine with a twist has been featured in Vogue and on No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain. There is also a location in Nashville. Savannah, G.A. and Greenville, S.C. will be getting their own soon, too.

Photo: Courtesy of Leon's

Leon’s Oyster Shop An oyster shop in an old car garage. Now you've seen it all! We love their oysters, but they also have the best fried chicken and soft serve ice cream. Spend an afternoon eating good food and sitting outside on their patio.

Lewis Barbecue Pitmaster John Lewis brings his signature Texas barbecue to Charleston, S.C., with Lewis Barbecue in the city’s emerging Upper Peninsula. Before moving to the Holy City, John lived in Austin, where he oversaw the award-winning BBQ program at La Barbecue and helped open Franklin Barbecue, establishing himself as one of the best in the business.

Magnolias“Charleston is filled with contemporary cuisine, but experiencing traditional Southern food is still a must,” Megan says. “Magnolias is one of the OG’s of fine dining in town, and it will forever be one of my faves. Request one of the few tables by the window and be sure not to miss their Down South egg rolls!”

Merci This charming restaurant is hidden away inside of a historic 1820s Federal‑style building in the Harleston Village neighborhood. Inside, the ambiance is reminiscent of a European bistro with vintage plateware, antique furnishings, wooden tables, and soft lighting.

The Obstinate Daughter Located on the beautiful Sullivan’s Island, The Obstinate Daughter is worth leaving the peninsula for. With great wood oven pizzas, it’s the perfect spot for dinner after a walk on the beach. Stop by Beard Cat’s Sweet Shop downstairs for an after-dinner treat!

Photo: Courtesy of The Ordinary

The Ordinary This beautiful upscale seafood restaurant on King Street is in an old bank. The kitchen is in the bank vault, and the raw bar is a great perch from which to take it all in. As Venita says: "For dinner you have to go to The Ordinary; it’s a non-negotiable."

Roseline This spot is called "the hidden gem of Elliotborough," and it really is. The space is only 429 square feet and romantically decorated, making Roseline an easy choice for tête-à-têtes and date nights. This neighborhood wine bar is at the intersection of Rose Street and Line Street with a vast assortment of beer, wine, other beverages, and a can't-miss happy hour.

SorelleA chic Italian restaurant bringing a bit of the Amalfi Coast to Broad Street. Expect house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a stunning bar where you’ll want to linger over a spritz. Downstairs, the Mercato offers coffee, pastries, and fresh lunch sandwiches perfect for a quick bite or takeaway.

Vern'sA neighborhood bistro with serious culinary cred. The menu changes often but always showcases seasonal ingredients and thoughtful technique—think fresh pastas and perfectly cooked seafood. Vern’s is known as one of the toughest reservations in the city, so be sure to book your table well in advance.

Xia Bao Biscuit Located on the corner of Rutledge Avenue and Spring Street, Xia Bao Biscuit is a local favorite. Serving up Asian Soul food, family style, the menu features dishes from China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam and is inspired by “kick-ass grandmothers everywhere!"

Where to Shop & Other Things To Do

Over The Moon See all of the brands you love—and the ones you have yet to discover—in-person. Since 2024, our store selection features all of the categories you know from our online site–fashion, gifts, tabletop, homeware, and more–so you can discover them for yourself. You can’t miss us with our impeccable window displays underneath our pink-and-white awning at The Shops at The Charleston Place. Stop by any day of the week! You never know what trunk show we may be hosting or who you’ll find inside.

Photo: Courtesy of Croghan's Jewel Box

Croghan’s Jewel Box The 100-year old family jewelry store is well-known around town for its estate pieces, sterling silver gifts, and charming, upbeat atmosphere. As Jillian says: "The shop and the family who runs it are truly crown jewels of the city themselves!" They have a wide selection ranging from graduation and debutante presents to Christmas ornaments, diamonds, and custom creations. Be sure to check out the Goldbug Collection, designed by “Mini” Mariana Hay. The design of the bold, gold jewelry is based on the South Carolina cockroach or “palmetto bug,” as they’re called by Charlestonians, and the unique collection has been embraced by locals and tourists alike.

Elizabeth Stuart Simultaneously oriented toward livability, functionality, and beauty, the team behind Elizabeth Stuart are devoted to creating curated spaces. With over 25 years of experience, the studio offers art selection, custom furniture, interior design, space planning, and more. Have fun strolling around the little boutique or working with the team to make your home your own.

Designs by Helen “Steep in African and African-American history, sweetgrass baskets tell a story of strength, sacrifice, and tradition in an artful way,” Megan says. “You’ll find basket weavers and their works throughout the Lowcountry, but if you’re looking for a unique piece to invest in, Designs by Helen, located in the open-air Charleston City Market, has a collection worthy of display for years to come.”

Hampden Clothing "Hampden Clothing has the best curation of designer and contemporary fashion," Julia says. "I can never leave empty-handed." This womenswear boutique features designers like Isabel Marant, Stella McCartney, Tibi, Rag & Bone, and Self-Portrait. The store celebrated fifteen years in business (a major feat in the current retail landscape), and is owned and operated by fellow Vanderbilt alum, Stacy Smallwood, who’s super nice. She and her team are always happy to pull looks for an upcoming event or giving styling advice, so be sure to say “hi” when you drop in.

HARTFounded by Hart Hagerty—a seventh-generation Charlestonian—HART began in 2016 and has grown into a beloved line known for soul-boosting, joyful pieces at attainable price points. Alongside her sister and business partner, Curry, Hart creates designs inspired by the spiritual power of jewelry: how talismans can honor the past, inspire the present, and help us tap into our truest selves. Don’t miss the charm bar, where you can customize your own meaningful piece—Gigi Hadid even stopped by to make a necklace while vacationing on Sullivans Island.

Hill House HomeFounded by Nell Diamond in 2016, Hill House Home has become synonymous with effortless, romantic style that’s as comfortable as it is sophisticated. This sunny outpost of the cult-favorite brand showcases their signature Nap Dresses alongside women’s apparel, accessories, baby and kids’ collections, bridal pieces, and homewares. With a design-centric approach, Hill House delivers impeccable quality and timeless, delicate styles through products created to enhance and celebrate everyday life. Don’t miss Nell’s, the charming in-store coffee and candy bar, perfect for a sweet treat or pick-me-up while you shop.

Ibu Movement Ibu is located on the second floor of a house on lower King Street. Go up the narrow staircase, and you’ll find a boutique that provides women in over 30 countries around the world the ability to grow into economic self-sufficiency through their art. Started in the Spring of 2015, the store prides itself in being bearers of both the textile tradition and social change. It features a wide range of handmade fashion and home accessories.

LAKE Pajamas It's the "pajamas superstar" of Charleston, Jillian says. With its flagship store is on King Street, LAKE Pajamas is famous for its supersoft Pima cotton sleepwear for the whole family. Check out the loungewear assortment to stay cozy around the clock.

minnow This flagship location takes the family-lifestyle brand’s swimwear and resort wear and puts it right on King Street. A longtime Over The Moon favorite, we even launched an all-Americana exclusive capsule with the brand in 2025. With minnow’s lowcountry roots, the brand also features exclusive Charleston-inspired pieces, making it a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike. Where else would we shop for our little ones’ water-filled adventures this summer?

Out of Hand A longtime Mount Pleasant favorite blending a flower shop, gift boutique, and salon all under one roof. You’ll find everything from fresh blooms to beauty products to stylish home accents.

Preservation Society of CharlestonNot only beautiful, the society is also historical. In 1931, the society played a key role in pushing the Charleston City Council to pass what became America’s first zoning ordinance to protect historic buildings. They thus established a Board of Architectural Review and designated a 138-acre “Old and Historic District.”

RTW Charleston Women’s specialty shop that carries designer clothing and is iconic to King Street. You'll find many of OTM's favorite labels while perusing the racks—and the accessory offering is just as swoon-worthy with the likes of Manolo Blahnik and Marlo Laz.

Shirtini Located on lower King Street, Shirtini offers up a curated collection of menswear-inspired Oxford-style shirts made for women. The quality is great, and the fit is fantastic. They run long, and if you can swing it, it’s worth stocking up on one or two to wear over leggings.

Under The Almond Trees"This is an incredible baby and kids destination," Berolzheimer says. With a newly renovated store on King Street, consider this a one-stop shop for all of your little one's needs, from practical car seats and strollers to precious clothing, toys, and more. Should you need a baby shower gift, the friendly and knowledgeable staff can always help with finding the perfect present.

INTERIORS / ANTIQUES / ART / GIFTS:

Candlefish The best-smelling gift and scent shop in Charleston. Candlefish has a candle library of 100 handmade fragrances. As Grace says: "They have more candles in one place than I’ve seen in my life." They also offer BYOB candle-making classes.

Fieldshop Fieldshop is a retail concept brought to you by Garden & Gun. Located inside The Dewberry Hotel, there’s an assortment of the finest sporting centric brands from around the world coupled with seasonal apparel, barware, jewelry, entertaining items, and florals all curated with the tastes of the magazine in mind.

Photo: Olivia Rae James / Courtesy of Flowershop

Flowershop Flowershop is a retail florist and floral design studio located downtown at 125 1/2 Spring Street (downstairs from Proud Mary). Owner Lily Peterson specializes in beautiful, unique wedding bouquets.

Photo: Courtesy of Fritz Porter

Fritz Porter Concepted by designer Sarah Hamlin-Hastings, Fritz Porter is an antique center representing 15 different dealers with styles ranging from flea market chic to museum quality classics located inside the Cigar Factory. With everything from original pieces by contemporary artists to fabric and a furniture showroom as well as one-of-a-kind gifts, this is a must-visit for anyone who loves interiors.

Open Door Shop This is a curated home decor, unique gifts, bridal gifts, wedding registry, tabletop and linens shop on Line Street.

WentworthFounded by event planner Gregory Blake Sams, Wentworth marries eclectic and special design with pure sophistication. Think Murano glass ashtrays, one-of-a-kind lighting fixtures, and beyond.The space itself is a carefully restored building from the 1870s.

MAKERS / CRAFTSMEN:

Brackish Bowties Handcrafted bowties made locally out of turkey feathers. Seen on many southern gentlemen at weddings and special events. Bill Murray wore his Brackish bowtie to the 2014 Oscars.

J. Stark Erik Holmberg is the owner and founder of J. Stark, a Charleston-based luxury dry goods label comprised of a variety of handcrafted tote bags, clutches, zip-up pouches, and leather wallets.

SITES AND SOUNDS:

The Battery & White Point Gardens The southern tip of Charleston’s peninsula was originally known as Oyster Point and later White Point because of the piles of sun-bleached oyster shells found at the edge of the water. This area of town is perfect for an afternoon walk and great for dream home hunting as it’s where the majority of Charleston’s grandest historic homes are located.

Charleston Music Hall The Charleston Music Hall is a Holy City staple. Located in the Upper King Street Area of Downtown Charleston and home to the city's ever-growing, eclectic, local music and theater scene.

Children's Museum of the Lowcountry This is a hands-on wonderland for little ones, with interactive exhibits, art activities, and a pirate ship to climb for a fun way to spend a morning with the kids.

Dock Street Theater Historic Dock Street Theatre was the first building in America built exclusively to be used for theatrical performances. Today, Charleston Stage, which became the resident professional theatre at the Dock Street Theatre in 1978, produces over 100 performances each season.

Photo: Courtesy of The Gibbes Museum

Gibbes Museum of Art The Gibbes Museum of Art is recognized among the oldest arts organizations in the United States, opening in 1905. Home to over 10,000 works that tell the story of American art, the museum recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation that restored the building to its original grandeur and transformed the look and feel of the space where these pieces of art are displayed. In addition to having the largest collection of miniatures in the United States, the museum presents an innovative series of six to eight special exhibitions per year.

International African American MuseumThe nation’s second largest African American museum is located right here in Charleston with year-round exhibits like exhibits about the pre-enslavement origins in West and West Central Africa, enslavement in the Lowcountry and beyond with more than 150 artifacts, 30 works of art, and over 50 films. Additionally, the IAAM’s Center for Family History provides genealogy services.

Sullivan’s Island Just a 20-minute car ride from the peninsula is one of Charleston’s most gorgeous beaches. It’s worth the ride out there to get some sun and enjoy lunch at one of many great restaurants Sullivan’s island has to offer (like family favorite Poe’s). Afterward, Jillian recommends a leisurely stroll along the shore. "I can’t think of a better place to ground myself and recharge my batteries than with a walk on Sullivan’s Island."

TopgolfPart driving range, part entertainment hub, Topgolf is always a hit for groups. Reserve a bay for friendly competition, then refuel with snacks and drinks delivered right to your spot.

DANCING:

The Commodore According to Jillian, this vintage jazz club that started as "Touch of Class" in the '80s has "the best late-night drinking and dancing in town." With green velvet barstools, craft cocktails, and a disco ball–lit dance floor, plus live music five nights a week, it's a swanky spot to go all out.

Henry's on the MarketIt’s the oldest restaurant in Charleston and the oldest continuously run operation in South Carolina, and when you go, it’ll be easy to see why. The brick tavern is an institution, cooking up burgers and other pub fare with live jazz and a roof deck to boot. It’s seen Charleston through so much since 1932: Prohibition, World War II, hurricanes, and more.