Local Hangouts in charleston
Local hangouts where we take our families
To find the local hangouts in Charleston, just ask. Locals in Charleston know where to go for the best food, culture, and entertainment that won’t break the bank. When it comes to popular hangouts, Charleston residents often head to spots that showcase the city’s history, southern charm, food scene, and amazing vibe – all with a budget-friendly twist.
For breakfast or brunch, locals love the casual atmosphere of places like Big Bad Breakfast or Page’s Okra Grill in Mount Pleasant, where you can find hearty Southern dishes like shrimp and grits without touristy prices. For those wanting a local favorite in downtown Charleston, places like The Daily on King Street offer fresh coffee, pastries, and small bites, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
Another of our favorite local hangouts in Charleston is to spend time at Hampton Park, one of the city’s most scenic parks, boasting a small lake, large oak trees, floral gardens, and ample space for picnics or leisurely bike rides. For children, the Charleston Waterfront Park downtown is another favorite, where fountains, eco stones, scenic waterfront views, and green spaces are shaded by 87 live oak trees – making it perfect for families on a budget.
Take a moment and look below at the over 50 places we’ve selected to help make your time in Charleston memorable…..
Le Chambertin French Bistro Charleston SC
If you are searching for an authentic French Bistro experience in Charleston, Le Chambertin offers something truly special. Nestled in the historic French Quarter, this charming bakery, café, and gourmet grocery store brings the warmth, flavor, and elegance of France to the Lowcountry. From morning coffee and flaky breakfast pastries to fresh lunch favorites and imported delicacies, Le Chambertin invites guests to slow down, savor each bite, and enjoy a genuine taste of French tradition.
Charleston’s only true crimes tour
Charleston is famous for ghost stories, grand homes, and candlelit streets—but if you want a walking experience rooted in documented cases instead of legends, Charleston’s ONLY True Crimes Tour by the Blueberry Tour Co/Op belongs at the top of your list.
Charlestown Express Rocks!
When it comes to navigating the Lowcountry, nothing compares to the comfort and convenience of Charleston Transportation with Charlestown Express. Whether you’re planning a private celebration, a family outing, or need reliable service to and from one of Charleston’s many destinations, Charlestown Express offers a fleet designed to make every trip smooth, stylish, and stress-free.
South Carolina Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium is more than just a collection of fish tanks—it’s a hands-on journey through the diverse ecosystems of South Carolina. From the mountains to the sea, the aquarium showcases native wildlife in immersive exhibits that captivate the imagination and inspire curiosity.
Jack of Cups on Folly Beach
Step inside Jack of Cups Saloon and find a pint-sized kitchen where co-owner and chef Lesley Carroll crafts rotating global dishes. On any visit, you might encounter beet dumplings, bibimbap skillets, lamb vindaloo, or pork belly tacos.
The Ghost Hunter Experience
If you’re ready to uncover the secrets of the supernatural, a Ghost Hunter experience in Charleston is the perfect way to begin your journey into the paranormal. Known as one of the most haunted cities in the United States, Charleston is the ideal setting for ghost hunting, filled with centuries-old graveyards, shadowy alleys, and buildings echoing with eerie energy.
Paddle Board rentals on Folly Beach
If you’re looking for the ultimate paddle board experience on Folly Beach, there’s no better place than Stand-Up Paddle Board Safari. As the best paddle board shop on the island, they offer everything you need for an unforgettable adventure on the water, including expert-led lessons, guided tours, and high-quality paddle board rentals.
HALO The #1 Opera in Charleston
Through our large-scale productions and intimate concerts. Our goal is to invite you to experience live theatre in the way that is most comfortable for you, in an immersive theatrical experiences. We break down barriers, elevate expectations, and create performances of classical art for a modern audience. Join us to experience High Art in the LOWcountry.
Big Bad Breakfast… It’s Awesome
Enjoy Big Bad Breakfast staples such as custom-created meats, fresh biscuits and preserves, locally roasted coffee and some of the best cocktails you’ll find anywhere. We wear our “Big Bad” name as a badge of honor and take special pride in serving all your Southern favorites with the creativity and technique that only a skilled, world-renowned chef can bring to the table.
Leave Your Mark at Graffiti Lane on Folly Beach
The Folly Tiki, Charleston’s Number 1 coolest boat ride
If You Like The Show, Outer Banks… Go See Jill
If you have a teenager obsessed with the Netflix show Outer Banks, then you’re in for a treat! Although the series is set in North Carolina, the stunning backdrop is actually Charleston, South Carolina.
Chico Feos Caribbean Food and Local Music… Fun!
Yum….Try Jeni’s Organic Ice Cream on Upper King
Charleston Outdoor Adventures is Awesome!
The Amazing Pirates of Charleston Kid Adventure!
Historic Foundation…The Best Gift Shop in Charleston
Number 1 Texas-Style BBQ…. You Need To Try Lewis BBQ!
The Belmont on King, a Classic Cocktail Bar
Take a Spooky Ghost Tour of Charleston!
Want Fresh Oysters?… Go to Leon’s
See Charleston From the Air…With Fly-In Helicopter Tours
Folly Beach – Just a Hippy Little Beach Town
Want Cool Live Jazz?… Try Forte Jazz Lounge
Visit the Hunley Submarine Museum…It’s Cool
Meet me at the Black Fedora Comedy Theater!
#1 Place To Eat a Healthy Breakfast at Millers All Day
The Blind Tiger, the #1 Bar, Enjoy Great Food & Drinks
Try The Obstinate Daughter…It’s Awesome!
Chubby Fish! The Best Seafood in Charleston
Amazing! Who doesn’t want to see Dolphins …We sure do!
Harken Cafe…An Amazing Healthy Bistro Option
Big Gun Burger Shop…Yep, It’s a Dive Bar
Delicious Home Cooking… Oh, that’s Page’s Okra Grill
Bring Fido! Find Dog Friendly Places in Charleston
For Breakfast, it’s The Lost Dog Cafe On Folly Beach
Learn Gullah Cooking at an Amazing Gullah Cooking Class
Tavern & Table on Shem Creek is Awesome!
Just Let Charleston Bag Valet Store Your Luggage!
The #1 Vegan Restaurant in Charleston is Sorghum and Salt
The Charleston Water Taxi, a convenient way to see Charleston
Woody’s Pizza Place on Folly Beach is Awesome
Fishing Charter Fun with Captain Ryan
The Pitt Street Bridge… Sunset, Relax, Fish, Stroll
Spend Time at Shem Creek Waterfront… you’ll love it!
Take a Sunset Cruise on Palmetto Breeze
Charleston Adventure Forest & Zip Line
If you’re looking for an outdoor activity that feels like a mini-vacation without leaving town, Charleston Adventure Forest is one of the most exciting family-friendly options in the Lowcountry. Tucked into the coastal landscape near Charleston, this treetop-style park blends fresh air, confidence-building challenges, and just the right amount of thrill
The Wild Olive…Awesome Italian Restaurant
Live Music & Cold Beer at The Windjammer!
Discover Charleston’s Foodie Side with Gump!
South Carolina BBQ…. Just Try Rodney Scott’s
Burwell’s The Best Wood-Fired Steakhouse in Town!
Carmela’s…Who doesn’t like Dessert!
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