Get ready to dive into six days of Southern charm! From the cobblestone streets and historic mansions of Charleston to the historic squares and vibrant culture of Savannah, these places are filled with captivating history, great food, and beautiful settings. So, grab your walking shoes and prepare for an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the South!
Accommodation Recommendations
In Charleston, consider these great hotels:
- The Hotel Bennett: The Hotel Bennett is a luxurious spot that features elegant rooms, a rooftop bar, and a prime location right by Marion Square. Inside, it’s absolutely stunning and packed with upscale amenities. It’s my favorite place to stay in Charleston!
- The Vendue: The Vendue is a boutique hotel located in the French Quarter with contemporary decor and a rooftop bar. It’s perfect for those looking to stay in a lively area with easy access to local attractions.
Day 1: Charleston
Morning
Start your Charleston adventure with a walk through the historic district. Begin at Rainbow Row, the iconic row of colorful historic houses. From there, wander over to Waterfront Park for some beautiful views of the harbor and the famous Pineapple Fountain.
Lunch
Head to Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar. It’s right on the water with great seafood and stunning views of the harbor. The shrimp and grits are a must-try.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, I highly recommend taking Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour. It’s a wonderful way to explore 30 blocks of the city’s historic area. You’ll get to see stunning antebellum mansions, charming old churches, and historic homes, including the former residence of South Carolina governor William Aiken Jr. The best part? Your guide will share over 300 years of history with you, giving insights into the city’s founding and its important role in the Civil War. It’s a relaxing and informative ride that really brings Charleston’s rich past to life!
Next up, make your way to Middleton Place, which is America’s oldest and most important landscaped gardens. This historic site spans 110 acres and includes not just the beautiful gardens but also the House Museum, Stables, and Eliza’s House. Each of these spots shares the rich history of everyone who lived, worked, and passed through this place. You’ll learn about the Middleton family, including two Founding Fathers, as well as the generations of enslaved people whose stories are woven into the property’s history. Whether you prefer a guided tour or want to explore on your own, there are plenty of opportunities to dive into these fascinating stories!
Dinner
For dinner, try out Hall’s Steakhouse—it’s my favorite restaurant in Charleston! If you’re a steak lover, this place has some of the best around. We took my brother-in-law with us, and he couldn’t stop raving about it; he mentioned at least five times during dinner that it was the best steak he’d ever had! It’s truly a gem, with fantastic food, excellent service, and a great atmosphere. You won’t be disappointed!
Day 2: Charleston
Morning
Take the short drive to Drayton Hall, a stunning historic plantation dating back to the mid-18th century. It is one of the oldest preserved plantation houses in the United States, known for its beautiful Georgian architecture and picturesque setting along the Ashley River. What makes Drayton Hall particularly special is its commitment to preservation; rather than restoration, the site maintains its historic integrity, allowing visitors to appreciate its authentic charm. The grounds have lovely gardens and walking trails. It’s a place to learn about the history of the Drayton family and the enslaved people who lived and worked there. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Southern history.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at Cru Café, a restaurant set in a historic home. They serve comfort food in an indoor and outdoor porch setting.
Afternoon
Visit the South Carolina Aquarium to start your day with some fun and education. Afterward, take a short drive to Fort Sumter National Monument. The fort is accessible by ferry and offers a deep dive into Civil War history.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at The Ordinary, a stylish seafood restaurant housed in a historic bank building. The raw bar and seafood dishes are exceptional.
Day 3: Charleston
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island. This magnificent Southern live oak is estimated to be over 400 years old, and its sprawling branches make for a stunning sight. Afterward, take a walk around Folly Beach, where you can enjoy the ocean breeze and perhaps even dip your toes in the water.
Lunch
Head back to the historic district and grab lunch at Poogan’s Porch. It’s a charming spot known for its classic Southern fare, like fried chicken and biscuits.
Afternoon
Explore King Street for some shopping and local charm. Continue to Charleston City Market, a great spot for local crafts and souvenirs.
Next, head to the Charleston Museum to learn more about the city’s history and culture. The museum’s exhibits are engaging and provide a comprehensive overview of Charleston’s past.
Dinner
For a memorable final dinner, check out Fig. This restaurant is known for its inventive dishes and local ingredients.
After Dinner Drinks
To cap off your evening, stop by The Cocktail Club. This rooftop bar offers a great atmosphere and a fantastic selection of craft cocktails, all while providing beautiful views of the city.
Tips:
- Book your Fort Sumter ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
- Use a combination of walking and using the DASH shuttle to explore different neighborhoods.
- The best time to visit Charleston is during the spring and fall, when temperatures are warm (but not too warm) and the city is blooming with flowers or fall foliage.
- Make sure to wear comfortable shoes
This morning, make the two-hour drive to Savannah Georgia.
Accommodation Recommendations
- Perry Lane Hotel: The Perry Lane Hotel is located right in the heart of the Historic District. They have a rooftop bar and a popular restaurant that serves Southern cuisine.
- Andaz Savannah: We really loved our time at the Andaz Savannah, especially its central location. Located in the City Market area, it’s just steps away from shops, restaurants, and all the historic sites. The rooms are modern and stylish, and the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting—definitely a great base in Savannah.
Day 4: Savannah
Morning
Start your Savannah trip with a stroll through Forsyth Park. The iconic fountain is a great photo op. From there, explore the historic district, including River Street, where cobblestone streets and historic buildings create a charming atmosphere.
Lunch
Grab lunch at The Grey, a restaurant in a restored 1938 Greyhound bus terminal. The ambiance is unique.
Afternoon
Take a tour of the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, the home of the founder of the Girl Scouts. Continue on with a visit to Savannah History Museum to get a deeper understanding of the city’s past.
Dinner
Dine at The Olde Pink House, one of Savannah’s most famous restaurants. We found the Southern cuisine to be delicious, and the historic setting adds to the experience.
Day 5: Savannah
Morning
Begin with a tour of the Bonaventure Cemetery, known for its beautiful statuary and historic graves. It may seem like a strange thing to do, but it’s actually really interesting, and a serene place with lots of character.
Lunch
Head to Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room for a true Southern experience. This family-style restaurant is famous for its hearty comfort food.
Afternoon
Shop and explore the charming streets of Abercorn Street and Bull Street. You can find unique shops, boutiques, and cafes to enjoy.
Next, visit the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Savannah’s complex history. The stunning mansion showcases not only beautiful architecture but also the intricate relationships between the city’s elite and the enslaved people who lived and worked there. As you explore the house, gardens, and slave quarters, you’ll gain insights into life in early 19th-century Savannah.
Dinner
For dinner, check out Elizabeth on 37th. This restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Day 6: Savannah
Late Morning
After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a fun Segway tour around the city’s charming squares, where you’ll see historical homes, including the residence of Harriet Tubman. She played a crucial role in American history as an abolitionist and helped many enslaved people escape to freedom through the Underground Railroad.
Lunch
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Collins Quarter, known for its Australian-inspired cuisine and laid-back atmosphere. Their brunch menu is particularly popular.
Afternoon
Start your afternoon at the American Prohibition Museum, where you can dive into Savannah’s fascinating history during the Prohibition era. Afterward, head over to the Wormsloe Historic Site. Here, you can explore Revolutionary War ruins and colonial recreations while walking along scenic oak-lined trails. The site features living history exhibits that provide a glimpse into 18th-century estate life.
Dinner
For your final dinner, head to Cotton & Rye. This restaurant features a cozy atmosphere and offers a modern twist on Southern classics. The menu includes favorites like fried chicken and house-made pasta. Be sure to save room for dessert; it’s a great way to wrap up your evening.
Tips:
- Make sure to explore the squares and parks that Savannah is famous for.
- Don’t forget to take lots of photos—the city’s beauty is stunning!
- Try to book restaurant reservations in advance, as popular spots fill up quickly.
Enjoy your trip through Charleston and Savannah!
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