Where to eat, stay, and play in Charleston & Savannah
Southern charm, gorgeous hotels, for foodies
When it comes to southern charm and nostalgia, Charleston and Savannah are two standout destinations that offer both. Cobblestone streets lined with brick-front homes, oak-shaded parks with stoic statues, and bustling dining districts keep travelers returning year after year.
I've gathered insights to highlight the best of each city. Whether you're seeking a seaside getaway or a history-infused excursion, experience southern hospitality at its finest with a trip to Charleston and Savannah.
When you connect with me, I will create a customized itinerary specific to you and your preferences (or just a hotel booking, if that's all you need).
Charleston
Image courtesy of the Charleston Place
Known for its beautifully preserved architecture, Charleston radiates elegant charm, particularly in its chic hotels and historic inns. From bespoke tours and renowned landmarks to boutique-lined streets and curated local menus, discover Charleston’s modern take on its storied heritage.
Exploring Charleston begins with a visit to the Charleston City Market, a historic downtown market filled with local artist stalls and food vendors. Just a short walk away is King Street, bustling with boutiques, eateries, and bars. Art lovers can enjoy the impressive collections at the Gibbes Museum of Art and the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston.
History enthusiasts will find a plethora of sites to explore. Fort Sumter, the initial battleground of the Civil War, is just a half-hour ferry ride from downtown. East of town lies Middleton Place, renowned for its formal gardens and manor house. In downtown Charleston, notable sites include the Nathaniel Russell House and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon, a former military prison. For a deeper understanding of Charleston’s complex history, a visit to the McLeod Plantation Historic Site is essential. This site offers an insightful look into the lives of the enslaved community, their culture, resistance, and transition to freedom.
Where to stay
The Dewberry Charleston: A hip hotel with the city’s highest rooftop offering exceptional views and craft cocktails. Book with me to receive exclusive Fora Reserve perks like $100 hotel credit, a daily breakfast credit for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
Zero George Street Hotel: A charming boutique hotel offering refined rooms and suites in a 1800s property off-the-beaten-path. Our VIP partner perks include $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
The Charleston Place: Traditional luxury and a central location pair with an on-site spa and dining experiences. Book with Fora to receive exclusive Fora Reserve perks like $100 hotel credit, a daily breakfast credit for two and an upgrade.
Wentworth Mansion: Historic gem with an upscale restaurant and opulent rooms exuding old-world elegance. Our SLH withIN perks include a hotel credit, daily breakfast for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
Where to eat
Image courtesy of The Dewberry
Charleston’s culinary scene is vibrant and varied. Airy Kudu Coffee and Craft Beer combines two favorite beverages. Harken is a charming cafe for your coffee fix, and for morning eats, head to Caviar & Bananas, just off King Street. Fleet Landing offers reliable seafood with waterfront views. For an upscale dinner, Husk serves creative southern fare in a beautifully restored Victorian home. FIG provides a bistro setting with gorgeous southern-inspired dishes, and Halls Chophouse is famous for its hearty steaks. For authentic home cooking, Bertha’s Kitchen and Hannibal’s Soul Kitchen in North Charleston are not to be missed.
Savannah
Savannah enchants visitors with its moss-draped oaks, cobblestone streets, and meticulously preserved antebellum mansions. The city’s vibrant culinary scene, historic district carriage rides, and lush squares make it a jewel of the South.
What to do
Forsyth Park, with its majestic oaks and historic homes, provides a perfect introduction to Savannah’s timeless charm. The First African Baptist Church, the oldest continuous Black church in North America, and the Birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts. And while not exactly historic, ghost tours abound in Savannah, with the evening ones particularly popular. a significant landmark. Savannah’s riverfront is ideal for enjoying sunsets, hiring a private boat, or booking a dinner cruise. For beachgoers, a half-hour drive to Tybee Island is worth the trip.
Art and literature enthusiasts will appreciate the Telfair Museums, a creative complex that includes a children’s museum, an academy, and the historic Owens-Thomas House. Bonaventure Cemetery, popularized by "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," offers a unique, historical experience.
Where to stay
Thompson Savannah: Riverfront property touting designer rooms, a sleek pool and trendy rooftop bar. Book with me to receive Hyatt Privé partner perks like a hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
Hyatt Regency Savannah: Contemporary rooms in a prime riverfront location just steps from dining and shopping. When booked with me, you’ll receive Hyatt Privé partner perks like a hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
Andaz Savannah: Designer corner property in a bustling central location with a relaxing pool and terrace. Book with me to receive Privé partner perks like a hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
Hotel Bardo: An 1800s manor (formerly The Mansion of Forsyth Park) with park views and an updated modern aesthetic. Book with me to unlock Leading Hotels of the World perks like daily breakfast for two, an upgrade and extended check-in/out.
Where to eat
Savannah’s dining scene is equally impressive. I’ve researched where to refuel, taste regional favorites and celebrate a night out during your Savannah getaway. For coffee, The Coffee Fox, The Gallery Espresso, and Mirabelle (famous for their waffles) are top picks. Riverfront dining can be crowded, but Vic’s On the River offers classic southern fare like shrimp and grits, while Huey’s is known for homestyle southern plates and beignets. For Greek cuisine, Olympia Cafe provides a laid-back atmosphere, and Graffito Pizza is perfect for pizza lovers.
For a special night out, The Olde Pink House offers a grand Southern dining experience in an 18th-century mansion, while Elizabeth on 37th serves elegant dishes in a historic setting. The Grey surprises with a gourmet menu behind its diner-like exterior, and Alligator Soul Restaurant serves exotic dishes like alligator and wild game.
Need to Know:
Airport: Charleston International Airport (CHS) and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
Transportation: Both cities are walkable in central areas, with convenient bus systems and free trolleys in the historic districts.
Ideal Length of Stay: 3 to 4 days per city or a week for both, to fully explore their history, architecture, and culinary scenes.
Have fun!