April showers bring May flowers
There is a reason Charleston has repeatedly been listed as a top city to visit or to live. Because it’s amazing in every way! In fact, recently Travel and Leisure listed Charleston among the top 15 cities in the world!
We couldn’t agree more with the editor-in-chief of Travel + Leisure, Nathan Lump. “The city has managed to preserve all the qualities for which it is widely known: a prime coastal setting, historic architecture, friendly locals—while also nurturing a creative culture that is making it one of the most notable destinations for those who seek out interesting restaurants, bars, and shops that highlight a dedication to distinctive craft.” Well said! This description fits our amazing city to a tee!
This historical city is a beautiful place to visit with cultural roots and stunning gardens. Due to the fact that Charles Towne was founded in 1670, there are plenty of historical homes and architectural icons to enjoy. As the oldest city in South Carolina, Charleston has done a beautiful job of preserving these sites for locals and visitors to enjoy.
Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Charleston and for good reason. The foliage is in full bloom, the weather is mild, and there is a variety of things to see and do. Actually, many consider Charleston’s weather to be perfect year-round. With a coastal climate, even hot summer weather is bearable with the ocean and swimming pools for cooling off. Of course, we think ANY time is a good one to visit Charleston! Another reason spring is so popular is due to the opportunity to visit gardens and homes. Here are some highlights not to miss!
Springtime in Charleston by the Garden Club of Charleston
March 26 – 28
The festivities begin on Thursday, March 26th from 5-7:30 p.m., at historic Hibernian Hall, to celebrate the 85th year of The Garden Club of Charleston’s House and Garden Tours! Continue the celebration on Friday, March 27th and Saturday, March 28th, from 2-5 p.m., to tour some of Charleston’s most beautiful and historic private homes. Maps and instructions will be sent via e-mail a day or two before the tour begins. For questions about the tour, or to pick up a hard copy of the map, please stop by Women’s Confederate Home at 62 Broad Street. Tea and refreshments will be provided during and after the tour at the Confederate Home Garden.
Charleston Festival of Houses and Gardens
March 11 – April 18
Step inside the private houses and gardens of some of the city’s most stunning properties, learn about Charleston’s distinctive architecture and history and celebrate our unique culture at luncheons, musical concerts and other Lowcountry lifestyle events. Tours and events vary by day. Houses, gardens, musical performances, morning history walks, and architectural insights are just some of the things you will enjoy when participating in this hugely popular annual event hosted by the Historic Charleston Foundation.
Meander through 3.5 miles of nature trails in on the 170-acre property while discovering enchanting swampland, gardens and cypress trees. Be sure to visit the Butterfly House, a large greenhouse filled with flowering plants, live butterflies, birds, a pond, an arthropod exhibit, and an observation beehive. And, for those of you who are movie buffs, you’ll see settings where famous actors came to film well-known movies. Stars such as Patrick Swayze, Mel Gibson, Jude Law, Heath Ledger, Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams and Katherine Heigl have all spent time filming at Cypress Gardens.
White Point Garden is located in the heart of the historic district downtown. This park provides beautiful views of Fort Sumter and of the Charleston Harbor, and it features lots of grass space, shaded by beautiful old oak trees. The park has a gazebo in the center and features a rich display of history, including an impressive display of Civil War cannons, and several monuments and statues. Take a break from your walk and rest in the shade on some of the benches that line the pathways throughout the park.
As one of the best-preserved antebellum period homes in the south, if the walls of this house could talk they would tell you the story of the wealthy family of Governor and Mrs. William Aiken, Jr. as well as the black servant staff who cared for their home and family. When the property was acquired by the foundation, the structure and contents were left in an “as-found” state, including furniture, architecture and finishes that have not been altered since the mid 19th century.
Charleston has something to offer for every visitor who ventures to our wonderful city. Be sure to join us on one of our highly rated and popular culinary tours while you are here! It’s the perfect way to get a taste for the cuisine of the city, take in historical insights, and experience the opportunity to make new friends! We have the inside scoop on where to enjoy the best food the city has to offer!