48 hours in Charleston, South Carolina

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I’ve been to Charleston a few different times in my life, but recently spent a quick weekend there with my mom and daughter! Justin and the boys were set to go on a weekend camp trip, so I took advantage of that time and whisked Emily away to one of the most charming cities I’ve ever been to.

We stayed at the Mill’s House in downtown Charleston, right near the City Market. I was excited to tell Emily we were staying in a *pink* hotel! We parked our cars (we met there since my mom was driving up from South Carolina) in a nearby garage and didn’t use them again until we left to head back home. The location of the hotel was ideal, making it really easy to walk anywhere we wanted to go! The restaurant in the hotel was very nice, the lobby was beautiful, but the guest rooms left a little to be desired. The real cost of this hotel is the location and easy access to the main tourist areas of Charleston.

After we dropped our things in our rooms, we walked over to the Aquarium. I brought an umbrella stroller for Emily which she rode in for a lot of the weekend, and I was very glad to have that with us. The Aquarium was about a 20-minute walk from the hotel, and the beautiful weather that afternoon made it delightful.

The Aquarium is right on the water and there are really scenic views from the top floor. It had a lot of interesting features and even a spot where adults and kids alike could “pet” a few different sea creatures.

We ate dinner at Bumpa’s, which was delicious, and then we walked over to the Joe Riley Waterfront Park. It was a perfect evening and the views from the park were beautiful.

The next morning we got up and walked north on King Street, the main shopping street downtown, to Virginia’s on King for breakfast. The food was delicious, and we spent the rest of the morning shopping on King Street. Each retail shop had so much character and charm from the outside, the simple act of window shopping was just about as enjoyable as going inside.

We took a break back in the hotel room but grabbed a light bite in the hotel restaurant first. Then, we headed back out to explore before our dinner reservation at Rudy Royale. We made our way back to the Joe Riley Waterfront Park but went further down to discover a playground. Emily played a bit, then we walked over to dinner.

Afterward, we got a scoop of ice cream from The Fudgery and slowly made our way back to the hotel.

The next morning we ate breakfast at Poogan’s Porch, which is just a 15-second walk from our hotel, and it was fun to learn about the story of that restaurant. A neighborhood dog, named Poogan, lived on that street for many years and was the first to greet customers when they converted that house into what is now Poogan’s Porch.

While it was a quick trip, we got to see some of the beautiful sites, eat delicious food, and enjoy the beauty of Charleston. There really isn’t a place quite like it, and I left wanting to go back as soon as I can.

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Lisa says · 04.04.22

Can you share a stroller review? Do you like the GLux? I’m in the market for a travel stroller. We have (and love) the Uppababy Cruz at home but it’s so heavy fit on the go.

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Kate says · 04.04.22

We love the g-luxe for this stage of life! We gave our Cruz away because we don’t use it anymore but we kept the g luxe for times just like these! It’s folds nicely and is spacious for a 4 year old. I like the basket under the stroller too! Highly recommend!

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Kennedy Carter says · 04.04.22

I just came across your YouTube channel, and just had to check out your blog! Your so funny,, and I loved your review on the
blow-dry/ blowout brushes as well as your other beauty videos! I’m going to Charleston for my birthday for the first, I can’t wait! Thanks for the post!! God Bless!

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Kyly says · 04.05.22

Where do you think you would you stay next time?

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Mary Martin says · 04.05.22

Come by my galleries the next time you come to Charleston and bring your daughter. We have gifts for young artists of various art supplies. Would love to meet you and your mom and your daughter.

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Christy says · 04.06.22

My Sissy & I went about a month ago & we stayed at The Meeting Inn on Meeting Street! Loved it & most def love being downtown & walking everywhere, it was beautiful, ready to go back!

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Rae says · 04.07.22

This looks like such a wonderful trip and so special for the 3 of you to be together!! I started going on girls trips with my mom when I was in high school and wish we would have started sooner. Some of my favorite memories are from the hours chatting in the car or exploring new towns together!
This got me wondering, would you and your mom consider sharing a blog post with her favorite places to shop for clothes? She has a wonderful “modern grandma” style that my mom would love!! I think you’ve also mentioned you, Deb and Lauren sometimes get the same clothing item – it would be so fun to see how each of you would style a couple of the same items to fit your personal styles 🙂

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Lesley says · 04.10.22

Thanks for this info! We’re going to Charleston for vacation this May and it will be our first time there! 🙂

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Jan Haas says · 04.27.22

Kate, I am a “youngish 60 something” mother and grandmother who lives in Goldsboro–45 min east (?) of Raleigh. I started following you when you only did hair tutorials, and I am a huge fan. I love all things family, house, makeup, clothes, and just everyday life with your beautiful family.

My main comment today though must be about your mom!!!! She honestly looks fabulous and just like the older sister!!!! Tell us older women her secrets!!! I love seeing you and your sister with her and the beautiful relationship you seem to share.

You all make Charleston look good!! Thanks for sharing your life with us. All the females in my family are huge fans. Keep up the great work, and my best regards.

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Kristin says · 04.27.22

Next time check out The French Quarter Inn, it’s charming yet cozy and close to all the action as well!

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BSMITH says · 04.28.22

Thank you for the recommendations. My family and I are heading to Charleston for long weekend next month.

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Timothy Keenan says · 05.01.22

I came here 22 years. I married my wife of 20 years. I came and loved Charleston then
.we now live in Summerville and enjoy each visit to Charleston.

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