If you didn’t post it on Instagram, did it even happen?
Well, probably, but an Instagram-worthy photo adventure makes for a great 24 hours. Charleston, SC, is a gorgeous city all around — but we know you want to curate the best of the best for your followers, so here is our guide to creating the most photogenic journey through Charleston possible, and get you the most double-taps. Because we know you love them, too!
Start at sunrise
Those expansive southern skies on the coastline make for amazing sunrise shots at the beach. Get an early start and head to Folly Beach, just 15 miles from downtown. On a good surf day, you can get some shots of the multitudes of surfers catching waves, or maybe glimpse some of the wildlife — eagles, porpoises, and even some Loggerhead Turtles.
#Hungry? Make an Instagram Story out of your breakfast
After finishing your sunrise stroll head to the Lost Dog Cafe, where the walls are covered in dog photos (of course) and the Graham Cracker French Toast and latte art will make your followers drool.
Head back into the city for a carriage tour and #ExploreCharleston
Really, who doesn’t get giddy for the clip-clop of horse hooves on cobblestone streets? Take a tour down Rainbow Row, one of the most photographed areas of Charleston, to see the longest row of colorful Georgian rowhouses in the U.S. Along the way you’ll see classic Antebellum architecture, amazingly curated gardens, and probably a good sample of interesting local culture. You never know what you’ll come across, so make sure you’re camera ready.
Take in the colors of the Charleston City Market and #shoplocal
With three open-air sheds and one Great Hall, the market has over 140 vendors to browse and sample. Make sure to get a photo of one of the iconic sweetgrass baskets, once used to winnow rice on local plantations and now an artisanal work of art. Charleston is also one of the top antiquing towns in America, so keep your eyes open for some fantastic items wrapped in history.
Speaking of plantations, go see one
After a locally sourced, authentically Southern lunch at one of the City Market’s many vendors (photo op!), head out to a spot like Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Founded in 1676, this location lends itself to a smattering of amazing photos — from close-ups of the flowers in the Romantic-style gardens to iconic images of historic plantation buildings, to picturesque bridges reflected in still water. This is the oldest public tourist site in the Lowcountry and the oldest public gardens in America, making it a must-’gram for those seeking some #NaturePhotography.
Don’t forget the Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park
This Park truly is a goldmine for photo opportunities, particularly as the sunset colors start to light up the fountain. Snap a photo on the swings, capture your sweetheart gazing off at the sunset from the dock, or get a more sweeping photo of the other people out for a stroll.
Wrap up your tour with a classy cocktail
Start with a rooftop view of Charleston at The Vendue, where creative cocktails are the name of the game. Relax into the evening, and then make strides to FIG — headed up by James Beard Award-winning chef Mike Lata, FIG serves up locally-sourced, seasonal foods made with creative flair and love. Not to mention impeccable attention to presentation, making this dinner spot the perfect destination for your #foodie shots.
So go ahead, charge up your phone and #ExploreCharleston to find out why so many people are hiring national movers and heading to “The Holy City”. It’s why Unpakt launched in Charleston — to provide full-service moving for all the new residents who couldn’t wait to live in this picturesque city!
