Michael Satterfield
When it comes to romantic Southern getaways, Charleston, South Carolina, effortlessly combines charm, history, and refinement. Stepping into the city feels like peeling back the pages of a grand, beautifully illustrated novel where every building, every cobblestone, has its own story to tell. If you’re craving a weekend of indulgence filled with curated luxury, world-class dining, and immersive history, Charleston promises all that and more.
Our home base for this Charleston journey is The Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton, a landmark hotel in the historic district that combines heritage with elegance. Standing proud on Meeting Street in its famous pink hue, The Mills House has welcomed guests since 1853. Yet, despite its age, the hotel exudes a modern sense of luxury. With beautifully appointed rooms, a rooftop pool, and thoughtful amenities, it invites you to slow down and savor every moment. Imagine sipping coffee on the veranda or enjoying a cocktail at the lobby bar, steeped in the hotel’s timeless charm, before stepping out to explore the city’s treasures.
No visit to Charleston is complete without indulging in its culinary gems. Charleston is a city where each dish is served with a side of history, and the restaurants we’ve chosen are experiences in and of themselves.
We begin our culinary tour at The Establishment, a restaurant that takes Southern flavors and elevates them to something unmistakably Charlestonian. The setting is elegant and intimate, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, especially seafood. The menu is contemporary American, but with a nod to Lowcountry traditions. Think pan-seared grouper, oysters sourced just miles away, and an impressive wine list that feels like a journey in itself.
Then there’s Church and Union, a striking restaurant housed within a repurposed church. The atmosphere is eclectic, blending the grandeur of its sacred architecture with bold, modern decor. The menu here is equally inventive, offering a modern-American twist on classic dishes. The food is memorable, and the ambiance is an experience that marries Charleston’s historic soul with its avant-garde spirit.
Charleston’s historic homes and museums offer a glimpse into the city’s complex past, making it a must for anyone who appreciates architecture and heritage. Begin with a visit to the Aiken-Rhett House, an antebellum mansion preserved in time. Here, you don’t just see the grandeur of Charleston’s wealthy elite; you’re also given a rare, unflinching look at the lives of the enslaved people who worked on the property. Wandering the halls and outbuildings, you’ll feel the weight of history as you take in this honest representation of the South’s past.
Another essential stop is the International African American Museum, which sits on the historic Gadsden’s Wharf, where many enslaved Africans first arrived in America. The museum honors these stories with thought-provoking exhibits on African American history and culture, particularly the influence of the Gullah Geechee people in shaping Charleston’s unique cultural fabric. It’s a moving experience and a beautiful tribute to the resilience of those who helped shape the South.
For art lovers, the Gibbes Museum of Art offers a collection that chronicles Charleston’s journey through an artistic lens. With paintings and sculptures dating from the colonial era to modern pieces by Southern artists, the Gibbes brings Charleston’s history alive through a stunning visual narrative.
Charleston’s King Street is where history and luxury shopping meet. The street is divided into districts—each with its own flair, from the Fashion District’s boutiques to the antiques and art galleries of Lower King. Here, you can spend an entire afternoon discovering high-end boutiques like Hampden Clothing, which offers a curated selection of designer pieces, and Croghan’s Jewel Box, a family-owned jewelry store brimming with fine and estate jewelry treasures. At The Shops at Belmond Charleston Place, you’ll find luxury retailers like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, making it a top spot for indulgent retail therapy.
Even if you aren’t shopping, King Street’s vibrant energy makes it perfect for people-watching and exploring Charleston’s eclectic mix of old and new.
Beyond the Gibbes Museum, Charleston boasts an impressive art scene with galleries that showcase Southern artists and international works. The Mitchell Hill Gallery on Upper King Street combines art with high-end home furnishings, creating a space where you can imagine the art in your own home. Nearby, Corrigan Gallery focuses on contemporary Southern artists, offering a mix of works that reflect Charleston’s creative energy and regional pride. This blend of historic and modern perspectives is what makes Charleston’s art scene so unique—each piece feels like a conversation between the past and the present.
Of course, no Charleston visit is complete without a stroll along The Battery. This historic seawall promenade, lined with grand antebellum mansions, offers sweeping views of Charleston Harbor. Here, you’ll find White Point Garden, a shaded park dotted with cannons, statues, and monuments that tell the story of Charleston’s role in the Civil War. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment of reflection amid lush gardens and historic architecture.
In the evening, head to the Charleston City Market, a lively and historic marketplace that has been a gathering place since the 1800s. Stretching across four city blocks, the market offers a curated selection of local crafts, food, and sweetgrass baskets—a centuries-old Gullah art form unique to Charleston. It’s a lively, bustling atmosphere that captures Charleston’s community spirit and makes it a perfect place to find a meaningful souvenir or gift.
From the genteel comfort of The Mills House Hotel to fine dining at some of Charleston’s most innovative restaurants and from the hallowed halls of historic homes to the buzz of King Street shopping, Charleston is a city that leaves an indelible impression. It’s a place where history and luxury coexist, where each cobblestone whispers a story, and every plate tells a tale of heritage and creativity. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or simply looking to indulge in the finest things, Charleston invites you to savor every moment, every flavor, and every glimpse of its storied past.
