...to CHARLESTON, SC!
My husband and I went on
vacation with our family already this year which was a TON of fun! But we'd (well, I'd) really like to go on a short vacay together! Our budget isn't anything grand this year, so I had been thinking of something that is only a car ride away. My sister went to Charleston a few months back and absolutely loved it so when I did some research and saw how adorable the city was, I decided this was our pick! Now Les is making me convince him to head south, so I've compiled a list of things that I'd really love to see and do when we are there and I'm hoping he agrees...
1. The
Charleston City Market looks like a blast to me. It's full of unique booths that sell everything from art to food to
Sweetgrass Baskets. It's open every day and from May-December, it opens some nights as well! I think Les will be sold when he sees the bags of grits below...(and there's air conditioning). (ps. you'll notice a theme in these posts- Les likes food..a lot...so everything has to involve that in some way or another)
*photos borrowed from Charleston City Market's website
2. Next on the list is the
Cypress Gardens. It's complete with a swamp where you can take a paddle boat around and see ALLIGATORS! This is actually where part of The Notebook was filmed, but frankly the 'gators intrigue me more. Otherwise there's a reptile house and butterfly gardens! Apparently it's a must-see while in town.
3. While I'm on the topic of locations that might not win Les over (but I really want to go!!), I will mention
Boone Hall Plantation. It's one of America's oldest working and living plantations and also the most photographed (for its sheer beauty). Another must-see stop while in Charleston...(oh and also had a cameo in The Notebook)..
4. Let's get to the good stuff- the food. This list is bound to be lengthy, because I just know it will really reel him in!
First stop is
Hominy Grill, which looks AMAZING. I mean, talk about southern comfort food! My vote is we go here for brunch...check out those Shrimp & Grits.
*Photo from their website
Butcher and Bee is a sandwich shop on King Street. They craft unique sandwiches every single day and keep their menu fresh! Les, lunch?
*Photo from their website
All that needs to be said about the next one-
The Macintosh- is that the owner's last name is Bacon and they have a Bacon Happy Hour. THIS is where I really want to go for brunch another day. Here's a snippet of two menu items...
"Mac Attack," Pork Belly, Bone Marrow Bread Pudding,
Poached Egg
Steak & Eggs, Potato Confit Hash, Wilted Greens, Choice of Eggs,
Chimichurri Sauce
Oh. my goodness. That's all you really need to know...
The Rarebit would also be a contender for a nice dinner in town. They apparently have an amazing Moscow Mule and you can purchase the copper cup it's in!
Next up is my all-time favorite frozen treat,
Jenis Ice Cream. With flavors like Salty Caramel, Goat Cheese with Red Cherries, and Saison with Sunflower Seeds & Golden Flax, you cannot pass this up. I actually tasted this for the first time in Columbus, OH and since my local market sells it for $10 a pint, I am ready to go back to the source.
And finally for the cocktails.
The Cocktail Club has a drink called the Cloak and Dagger- aged rum, rye whiskey, ginger, beet, pineapple, lemon, and a port float. Les, did I win your heart yet?
5. But aside from all this, I would really like to see the beautiful homes, especially on
Rainbow Row and enjoy a romantic walk with my husband:)
*Image from Style Me Pretty
This is just a small taste of some of the places that make me want to visit Charleston! Check back for more after our trip...to be determined :) Les, did I convince you?
With love, Allie xoxo
Ps. A few other places to note:
-
The Battery (promenade along the water) for a walk and view of the water