I think Ben said it best when he declared Charleston to be a town you could just melt into and never leave.

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

We felt so at home in the south, taking in the scenery, laid back lifestyle, and strolling our days away.

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

Vacation never felt so sweet!

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

I love how downtown Charleston has a couple of different sides to it. Centuries-old cobblestone streets still remain in parts of the French Quarter with upscale dining establishments just around the block, and influences from Europe to Miami can be seen in the enviable homes that line the peninsula.

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

As a history lover, I, well, love, the fact that many places in the area (including private homes, shops, and businesses) have placards with the history of the building on them – some dating back to the early 1700s. I always forget how “old” the east coast is compared to the rest of the country. I think that’s so neat!

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

As I mentioned in previous posts, the food in Charleston is not to be missed. From regional snacks like boiled peanuts (crazy!), to re-imagined dishes like pig ear lettuce wraps, and staples like Chicken & Waffles, the splurges were well worth it.

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

(Remind me of that when I’m chugging along on the treadmill this week, mmkay?)

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

One thing I was surprised by is how OUTSTANDING Charleston’s shopping scene is. Like, some of the best shopping I’ve seen anywhere, ever.

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

The main shopping district on King Street is lined with upscale brands like Cynthia Rowley and Louis Vuitton, fun and more affordable shops like Anthropologie and Kate Spade (ok still not that affordable) but the kicker is all the boutique shops filled with adorable dresses, jewelry, bags, and shoes that also dot the street. Ben and I were both pretty happy that I’m not able to fit into anything right now because I could have done some serious damage this past week!

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

One thing we were able to buy was a bow tie for our little man. He’ll be such a Midwestern gentleman! ;)

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

I always say the best way to get to know a new place is to see it on foot, and lucky for us Charleston is a true walking town. Ben and I walked everywhere – I’d say between 3-5 miles a day. Between the gorgeous waterfront and house gazing, it wasn’t hard to rack up the miles. Helped negate our heavier dinners, too…right? RIGHT?!

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While in Charleston we stayed at the Francis Marion Hotel on King Street. The stunning hotel was built in the 20s and is in the perfect location for exploring the shops, restaurants, and areas on and off King. (Photos from hotel website.)

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While the hotel was beautiful and clean, it was definitely built in a different era. The rooms are small and bathrooms even smaller with needs for updates. If I were you, and the budget allows for it, I’d stay at a nearby B&B to get the true Charleston experience in an old, Victorian-esque home. The Francis Marion was not bad at all, and we were only there to sleep and shower though, so no biggie!

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With that, it’s back to the real world for us! Charleston was a dream, but alas, it is time to wake up. Thank you for coming along with us! Back to regularly scheduled programming tomorrow. I hope you had a great weekend!

Charleston, SC trip | iowagirleats.com

More Charleston Recaps:

Sweet Southern Style

Friday Favorites: Charleston Restaurant Edition