This week Melissa will transport you to Charleston, South Carolina. Beyond its quaint appearance, cobblestone streets, and pastel-colored historic houses, it is also home to a thriving food scene, charming boutique hotels, and a rich and important history. Surrounded by both pristine beaches and acres of farmland, this southern city is considered one of the most vibrant American tourist destinations. In our latest Know Before You Go episode, Melissa is joined by three people Charleston experts who each have unique ties to the city : Winslow Hastie, President and CEO of the Historic Charleston Foundation; Angela Mack, Executive Director of the Gibbes Museum of Art; and food and culture journalist, Shane Mitchell.

If you’re headed to the South Carolina Lowcountry soon, you’ll also want to hear Melissa’s Destination Hacks for Charleston. She shares her recommendations for pinpoints hotels, restaurants, shops, and experiences you’ll want to check out on your next visit.

If you want more information on the hotels, restaurants, shops, and sites from this week’s episode, click on the links below: 

Hotels

The Pinch: New favorite with 22 luxury rooms and suites, plus three residences for extended stays at a prime location just off George and King Streets. Perfect spot for travelers who want to be minutes away from the best restaurants and shopping.

Planter’s Inn: Located in the original center of town, it was originally built in 1844 as a dry goods store and is the only Relais and Chateaux property in Charleston. Perfect for a history buff.

The Dewberry: Its buzzy lobby bar makes it a favorite of tourists and locals. Those who enjoy design-forward properties must check out its mid-century modern interiors.

Zero George: A 18-room hotel is spread out across five historic buildings on George Street, close to many great restaurants, shops and sights. The definition of Southern charm.

Restaurants

167 Restaurant Group: 167 Raw has a rotating list of oysters, fish tacos, lobster rolls, and tons of other fresh seafood. 167 Raw is a great spot for sushi lovers. Bar 167 has lovely cocktails and a small bite.

Chez Nous: Cozy French restaurant with daily hand-written menus and a robust wine list.

The Grocery, FIG, and The Ordinary: Farm-to-table restaurants with a fantastic selection of fresh, local seafood.

Xiao Bao Biscuit, Cru Café, Basic Kitchen, Chubby Fish: Neighborhood spots for a quick bite.

Leon’s: World famous char-grilled oysters.

Obstinate Daughter: Delicious Italian food on Sullivan’s Island

Raw Lab: 12-course tasting seafood menu, three and a half hours experience.

Husk: Elegant yet rustic and takes on a fine-dining approach to Southern cuisine.

Shopping

House of Nomad: Features home designs inspired by the owner’s travels in Asia, Central America and Africa.

Ibu: King Street boutique featuring art from women’s artisans collectives around the world.

George C. Birlant & Co.: Antique store with an impressive collection from across the US and UK.

Sites to See

Gibbes Museum of Art: American fine art museum, with an emphasis on pieces with a connection to Charleston or the South.

Nathaniel Russell and the Aiken-Rhett Houses: Two 19th century homes run by Historic Charleston Foundation, which provide insight into antebellum Charleston.

International African American Museum: Opening June 27th. Shares and celebrates the stories of enslaved African Americans.