Visit Charleston, SC: Ultimate Guide
From its historic architecture to its coastal ecosystems and vibrant cultural traditions. Visit Charleston, SC worth every second.
When you visit Charleston, SC, you're not just experiencing Southern charm, but stepping into a community increasingly committed to sustainability. As a walkable city, here is the ultimate guide to enjoying the Holy City while supporting businesses prioritizing environmental and cultural preservation.
First stop: Museums
The Charleston Museum
Founded in 1773, The Charleston Museum, America's First Museum, is leading conservation efforts by implementing energy-efficient lighting systems throughout its historic buildings and developing educational programs on Lowcountry ecology. Their "Charleston's Natural History" exhibit highlights local ecosystems and conservation challenges. Your admission directly supports their preservation of over 2.4 million artifacts and specimens.
Admission tickets can be purchased on the museum's official website. Prices range from $30 to $15, depending on the locations you want to visit. Children pay $6 and youth pay $12.
Gibbes Museum of Art
This cultural institution has transformed its historic building with sustainable renovations like water-saving fixtures and energy-efficient climate controls to protect priceless artworks. Their "Art of Conservation" program connects local environmental issues with artistic expression. Visit their garden featuring native plants that support local pollinators.
The Gibbes Museum of Art offers classes, workshops, and events year-round. This is intended to inspire, heal our hurt, and nourish our souls.
Purchase tickets online; prices vary depending on age and occupation, starting at $6 for children and $12 for adults. Students, seniors, and military personnel pay $10 admission.
Sustainable Dining Destinations
When you visit Charleston SC, a food tour is a must. These restaurants combine the city's renowned culinary traditions with eco-conscious practices.
Basic Kitchen
A farm-to-table restaurant partners exclusively with local farms practicing regenerative agriculture. Their seasonal menu showcases Lowcountry ingredients while minimizing food waste through creative preservation techniques. Their "Waste Not" dinner series educates diners about sustainable food systems.
We believe the choices we make through food can have a positive impact on our health, community and environment. -Basic Kitchen.
The average price per person ranges from $20 to $30 per meal.
The Grocery
Chef Kevin Johnson's commitment to local sourcing extends beyond ingredients to energy and waste management. The restaurant maintains its urban garden, composts kitchen waste, and utilizes a comprehensive recycling program. Their Sustainable Seafood Initiative promotes responsible fishing practices in South Carolina waters.
Operating under a philosophy of respect for ingredients and their origins, the menu is made to harmonize and surprise. -The Grocery.
The average price per person ranges from $50 to $100 per meal.
Eco-Friendly Shopping
Preservation Society of Charleston Shop
An elegant shop on King Street sells products from local artisans. Items range from Salobre feather earrings to books on Lowcountry African American history. The PSC Shop is a non-profit organization.
Where to Stay?
Visit Charleston, SC, and stay at one of these five-star boutique hotels where sustainability and luxury merge to create a welcoming environment designed especially for their guests.
The Restoration Hotel
This 5-star boutique hotel earned Green Tourism certification through water conservation systems, farm-to-table dining, and the elimination of single-use plastics. Their "Charleston Heritage" program includes guided walks highlighting preservation efforts throughout the historic district.
Located on iconic King Street, The Restoration is at the center of it all. It's recommended to book at least three months in advance to get the best reservation prices.
Zero George Street
This meticulously restored 5-star property combines 19th-century architecture with modern sustainability. They got the LEED certification reflects comprehensive energy-efficient systems, while their on-site culinary garden supplies their restaurant. Their Sustainable Charleston package includes carbon-offset transportation options for exploring the city.
The hotel's restaurant is renowned for serving local flavors. Chef Vinson Petrillo is known for using seasonal ingredients and preparing dishes that could be works of art.
Please reserve three months in advance.
