I recently traveled to Charleston to celebrate a 30th birthday party, with an itinerary surrounding one of my favorite shows – Southern Charm. For anyone unfamiliar, this is a reality tv show following the lives of a group of friends in Charleston, South Carolina. The show highlights many of Charleston’s great restaurants and bars as well as the various entrepreneurial endeavors of the cast. As a true fan, most of our plans for the weekend included visiting aspects from the show. If you want to know “where does Southern Charm cast hang out”, check out my Charleston Southern Charm tour recommendations below. Including Southern Charm addresses of these great locations.
Be sure to check out MAST's Essential Packing List For Charleston.
Bars, Hotels, & Restaurants On Southern Charm Show
Palace Hotel
The Palace Hotel is a Shep Rose restaurant in Charleston. In Shep’s own words, this is not a palace, nor is it a hotel. This dive bar is located within a neighborhood, a few blocks from King street and offers great drinks, excellent food, and even better prices. Try out their brunch for a cool mix of southern offerings and funky takes on traditional breakfast food. The back patio is definitely a hidden gem of this location.
Address: 35 Hanover St, Charleston, SC 29403
NICO
Another Southern Charm restaurant is Nico. I can easily say that dinner at NICO was the highlight of our trip. This was some of the best food I have ever had in my life. As they are known for their oyster selection, I would highly recommend trying some. For someone new to oysters, their woodfire options are delicious. The seafood is unrivaled here, but don’t sleep on the sides. Mix it up and try as much as you can, you won’t regret it!
Address: 201 Coleman Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
Republic
Let’s continue our Southern Charm Charleston tour with Republic. Party into the night at Charleston’s premier night club. You may have seen several scenes filmed at Republic on Southern Charm, as it is a favorite hangout of Craig, Austin, and Shep. If you’re feeling fancy, get yourself a private table in the VIP and spend your night sipping cocktails and partying like a true Charlestonian.
Address: 462 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
Ravanel Bridge
Anytime you are on the east side of Charleston, you get a fantastic view of the Ravanel bridge, named after Arthur Ravanel Jr., the father of Thomas Ravanel from Southern Charm. The bridge connects downtown Charleston with neighboring Mt. Pleasant. Wanting to get up and personal for a great photo of the bridge I booked a sunset sail cruise. This is a great option for a couple of hours on the water, floating past the historic Charleston homes, taking in the views of downtown, and getting up close and personal with some sea life.
Trop Hop
When we set out in search of Austin’s famous tropical beer, we didn’t realize we would be sipping it next to him. Several bars on the peninsula offer Trop Hop including King Street Dispensary, Bay Street Biergarten, and Uptown Social. When we arrived at Uptown Social and promptly ordered our Trop Hop, the bartender asked if we were fans of the show. He noted that the cast was often there and only minutes later Austin strolled in. No one bothered him, asked him for photos, or acknowledged him in any way. Charleston is a small town and if you are hoping to see some cast members from Southern Charm you have a high likelihood, as they are often out and about.
More Southern Charm Houses & Favorites
Ms. Patricia’s House
If you want to see one of the Southern Charm houses head south of Broad to get a view of the famous Isaac Jenkins Mikell House where Ms. Patricia lives. You won’t necessarily spot this Southern queen; however, you will get a good look at her compound.
Address: 94 Rutledge Ave., Charleston, South Carolina
Sewing Down South
Craig’s journey to become the male Martha Stewart can be enjoyed by picking up one of his famous pillows. You can find Sewing Down South items at a number of boutiques throughout Charleston.
The Commodore
Another Shep Rose restaurant-- take in a night of Jazz music at another of Shep’s funky establishments, the Commodore. Located just a few blocks from the Palace Hotel.
Address: 504 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403
MAST's Essential Charelston Packing List
1. Boat Shoes
This seaside town is all about nautical attire. Boat shoes are an excellent option for a day at sea or walking around the cobblestone streets of Charleston.
2. Statement Bags
Fashion is in full swing in this upscale southern town. A funky handbag will give you that high end look at a modest price.
3. Honest Sunscreen
Charleston is hot and sunny, protect yourself no matter what time of year you are visiting with a sunscreen you can take with you wherever you go.
3. An Outdoor Blanket
South Carolina has great weather, which means outdoor activities are a must. This great outdoor blanket is perfect for a trip to the beach, picnicking in the park, or just relaxing outside.
5. Baseball Caps
Nothing says South Carolina like the moon palm tree image on their state flag. Feel like a local in this baseball cap.
Conclusion
Whether you are fan of the show Southern Charm, or not, Charleston is an excellent vacation city. With great weather year round, excellent restaurants, and tons of activities, there is truly something for everyone. For other Bravo obsessed readers, use this Bravo Southern Charm guide to help you plan your next vacation to South Carolina.
