Pros:
- The sightseeing bus tour was informative and an efficient way to see landmarks that did not require lengthy stops.
- Comfortable walking temperatures and short distances made exploring easy.
- Waterfront Park was distinctive and dog-friendly, with obstacle courses and a fenced running area.
Cons:
- The Hampton Inn was pleasant but dated, with small rooms that needed updating.
- Some historic buildings were not air-conditioned.
I would definitely plan another trip devoted entirely to Charleston. I would like to visit more museums, the aquarium, additional historic sites, and several restaurants I missed. Fort Sumter was informative and worthwhile, but one visit was enough; the ferry ride took longer than the time spent at the fort.
Charleston, SC: May 26–29, 2026
This was an unusual Amtrak travel day. We left Charlotte at 6:45 a.m. and were not scheduled to reach Charleston until about 10 p.m., largely because of a planned three-and-a-half-hour stopover in Wilson, North Carolina, before boarding the Palmetto. Unfortunately, the delay stretched to five hours. Wilson’s older station had uncomfortable wooden benches, a restroom, and a vending machine. Because I had researched the stop in advance, Baxter and I explored the small, quaint town. We ate at Bill’s Grill, a local diner three minutes away that is known for its varied menu and generous portions. The nostalgic décor was charming, and the food was plentiful and delicious. We finally boarded around 5 p.m. and enjoyed scenic views from both trains.
We arrived in Charleston around 11:30 p.m. and were picked up by the Hampton Inn shuttle. Charleston, South Carolina’s oldest and most populous city, is known as “The Holy City” because historic church steeples rise above its low skyline. Founded in 1670 as Charles Town, the city occupies a peninsula where the Ashley and Cooper rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean. It is celebrated for its rich history, pastel antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and Lowcountry cuisine.
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
The morning was beautiful and comfortable enough to eat breakfast outside. We then crossed the street to the transportation center and boarded the 120-minute Gray Line Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour. The experience included:
- Views of more than 100 points of interest—including Rainbow Row, the Old Exchange Building, White Point Garden, King Street, the Battery, and Waterfront Park—along with extensive historical commentary.
- Admission to the Joseph Manigault House.
- Admission to the Charleston Museum.
Afterward, we used the complimentary bus service to visit Charleston City Market and enjoy a relaxing dinner. The tour introduced us to many historic homes and landmarks, and I explored more of the Market area on foot.
Thursday, May 28, 2026
- Visited historic Fort Sumter after a narrated ferry
- Explored the surrounding area, photographed more historic homes, landscapes, and buildings, and browsed local
- Visited a local arts fair.
- Enjoyed dinner in the expensive shopping district, where the food itself was reasonably priced.