Maybe you’re already a world traveler, or maybe you’re eager to start new adventures. Regardless of the number of stamps in your passport, it’s time to pack up for a beautiful vacation.

If you’re not sure where to go next, we recommend a trip to the South. Charleston, South Carolina, is a truly magical place. This is where history and beauty swirl together like fireflies on a warm night—not to mention the seafood is something out of this world.

Here at the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia®, we’re ready to help you plan an unforgettable weekend in Charleston.

Step 1 – Explore

Via Yelp/Mark Q.

Charleston City Market

188 Meeting Street

Now that you’re in Charleston, it’s time to explore. Make your first stop the famous Charleston City Market, which has been around since 1804. The market has grown from its humble small beginnings to its current grand size of 300 vendors selling everything from fruits to baskets.

Historic Walking Tours

Throughout the city

As you may have noticed, Charleston is brimming with historic sites. This is why walking tours are among the top things to do in the city. One of the most popular options is Bulldog Tours, which has won best tour company seven years running. Take your pick of historic, ghost, or food outings.

Step 2 – Experience

Via Yelp/Glenn G.

Pineapple Fountain

1 Vendue Range

If you’ve seen any postcards of Charleston, there’s a good chance the Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park served as the backdrop. This is one of the most photographed spots in the city, and is simply stunning at sunset.

Old Slave Mart

6 Chalmers Street

Truth: Charleston played a big part in inter-state slavery until 1863. The Old Slave Mart is the actual location where thousands of slaves were sold from 1856 until the start of the Civil War. Through a variety of documentation and storytelling, the museum tells this part of the city’s history with unflinching honesty.

Step 3 – Shop

Via Yelp/Brit M.

Croghan’s Jewel Box

308 King Street

Roughly 100 years ago, a man named William Joseph Croghan opened a little jewelry shop on a side porch of a storefront. The business eventually grew to fit the entire building. Today, Croghan’s Jewel Box offers rare antiques and new jewelry pieces to fit any taste.

Blue Bicycle Books

420 King Street

Love bookstores? For rare tomes, popular favorites, and used classics, Blue Bicycle Books has the best in the city. This quaint shop on King Street gets quite a number of authors stopping by, including Stephen Colbert and Sue Monk Kidd.

Step 4 – Eat

Via Yelp/Alice K.

Husk

76 Queen Street

If you’re on a vacation where the goal is to treat yourself to the finest foods in the land, make a reservation at Husk. Spearheaded by James Beard-winner Chef Sean Brock and Executive Chef Travis Grimes, they give Southern classics brand new twists.

The Darling Oyster Bar

513 King Street

Did someone say seafood? If so, they were probably referring to The Darling Oyster Bar, which is one of the most popular seafood places in the region. You’ll find shrimp and grits here, but also delicacies like squid ink tagliatelle.

You have more than earned a vacation you’ll never forget. With beautiful sights and exquisite dining, Charleston may become your favorite city.