There's no denying that the summer months are the preferred months for travel in America, with July taking the lead as 51% said in a poll they would be vacationing during that month in 2022. In second place was the month of August followed by June and then September. While children being out of school for the summer is undoubtedly a major factor, the warmer weather is another. But if you enjoy fewer crowds and lower travel costs, the best time of the year for you to travel is in the winter months, with the exception of during the holidays, the busiest travel days of the year! Yet, Charleston has been named as one of the best winter holiday getaways to take in America.
Charleston continues to be a favorite city to visit in America, no matter the time of year. But during the holiday season, people who are looking for a warmer climate ranked Charleston as the #6 best winter vacation destination with high marks in categories like travel costs, local costs, and weather.
When it comes to local costs, there are plenty of things to do in Charleston that are free. We recommend some sightseeing with stops at the famed Rainbow Row, ...
... the magnificent Angel Oak (found in Johns Island), named the most beautiful place in South Carolina by Condé Nast Traveler, ...
... and the Joe Riley Waterfront Park, where you won't want to miss the iconic pineapple fountain. Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise behind the fountain!
For some wallet-friendly but delicious dining spots, stop by Early Bird Diner for some incredible chicken and waffles for breakfast, ...
... the Brown Dog Deli for an Apple Butter Jeans sandwich for lunch that's to-die-for, ...
... and Hannibal's for some unforgettable soul food for dinner.
Get some of your Christmas shopping done or find the perfect souvenir from the Charleston City Market, a historic market complex in downtown Charleston that was established in the 1790s and stretches for four city blocks.
For a unique adventure in Charleston, take a ghost hunting tour that allows you to explore the city as a paranormal investigator, an interactive experience utilizing the real tools of the trade, including a thermal imaging camera.
Take a drive through 2 million lights and over 700 light displays at the Holiday Festival of Lights in James Island during the Christmas season.
At the end of the day of exploring the city, you can rest for the evening at the Kings Courtyard Inn, an example of the affordable 3-star hotels also noted as a reason Charleston stands out as a top winter holiday travel destination.
As beautiful a city as Charleston is, it's simply magical when decorated for the Christmas season. If you've never been to Charleston before, the holidays are an excellent time for an introduction, and it won't drain your bank account during a time of year when you're spending extra money buying gifts and traveling to visit with family!
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