The Low Country and I have a love affair. Don’t get me wrong, Oklahoma is amazing, but there’s just something about the Low Country that brings the South to a whole different level. I’m blaming it on the history, old houses, seafood and beaches. So when I think of some of the most iconic towns in the Low Country, Charleston comes to the top of the list.
Charleston sits on a peninsula where the Ashley and the Cooper rivers come together with the Atlantic Ocean. When I say Charleston has old houses I mean OLD houses since Charleston was founded in 1680.
Most of the houses have these porches all facing the Atlantic to get as much wind and cool air as possible before air conditioning was involved. To start your tour of Charleston, get on one of the many horse drawn carriages to show you around. Sit back and relax, and take in this beautiful scenery.
Then take a ferry out to Fort Sumter. Fort Sumter has been involved in the American Revolutionary War, The War of 1812 and the Civil War. Any history buffs will get a kick out of Fort Sumter. Many of the original cannons are still on site.
The Charleston Aquarium is right off the dock for the Fort Sumter ferry rides. This is a great stop for kids if they are tired of all the old houses. Our daughter was a big fan of the Aquarium.
Charleston is known for some of the best places to eat in the country. Start at Hominy Grill for great home cooking and some boiled peanuts. I highly recommend the Charleston Nasty Biscuit with fried chicken breast, cheddar cheese and sausage gravy.
Hyman’s Seafood is a great stop for some fresh catches. They have been in the same location for 113 years (did I mention things in Charleston are really old?). It had a ton of seating but can fill up fast. Finally, for a date night go to Husk. Always fresh, farm to table and the menu changes daily. I should also mention reservations are pretty much required to eat anywhere in Charleston. These people like their food!
Close by to Charleston are many grand plantations to check out. After a friend’s recommendation we chose Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and were so glad we did!
Seriously! How gorgeous is this?! Magnolia Plantation dates back to 1676 and has over 464 acres with miles of gardens to explore. The Planation house is still mostly preserved so you can tour it. Let me tell you, it’s so worth it.
Finally, check out one of the many, many beaches all around Charleston. We decided to tour Folley Beach. I never get tired of beaches. They make me happy!
It’s safe to say my love affair for the Low Country is still intact, if not grown. Charleston was so welcoming and delicious, and I can’t wait to go back.
Originally published March 25, 2016