The people of Charleston Port love their churches, as 180 of them break up the region's low skyline. Since everything is so close together, you'll find plenty to do on foot. You could actually spend hours on King Street and barely tap the surface. The city's also a college town, which keeps it well energized. You'll find the warmest weather in early April through October, when highs reach the 80’s.
Shopping
When it comes to shopping near the Charleston port of call, don't miss King Street, as it's the premiere spot in the region. It's basically divided into three sections. First you'll find the lower section that is made up of high-end antique dealers, the middle section with national chains like Banana Republic, and the high end which is home to upscale alternative fashionistas like Putumayo. It has also been called the design district for all it emphasis on furniture and interior design.
At Worthwhile, the mundane becomes fun and time spent here shopping for artsy and hip baby gear, house warming gifts, and office supplies is definitely worthwhile as its name implies.
If you like hats, Magar Hatworks is the place to find designs from well known designers such as Prada and Calvin Klein.
Things to Do
Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry may just be the place to let your children burn off their energy built up while on the ship. It’s a hands on experience so they can touch and play with anything they like.
If you stand at the intersection of Water Street and East Battery, you can point your camera east and shoot mansions, or aim west for views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter. It’s also a great place to view the Charleston cruise port.
Fishing near the Charleston cruise terminal can be a real experience, and if you take a charter trip out on the water you will have an abundance of fish stories to tell your buddies back home. The difference between your fish stories and theirs is that yours will not be about the one that got away, but the one you had for dinner.
Restaurants and Bars
Grill 225 has been piling up the accolades for years now and it just keeps getting better. It is also an excellent place for that special occasion, or just a causal night out. Be sure to try the steak; it just may be the best you've ever tasted. The hefty portions will make it tough to save room for any of the special desserts on the menu.
The Pavilion Bar atop the Pavilion Hotel offers a breathtaking view of all Charleston’s; from Charleston cruise terminal to the surrounding college town. Start here with a Martini and lobster or duck appetizers before you visit Grill 225 down below.
Check out Mercato, known for its food as much as it is for its live entertainment. One night it will feature a swing band and the next, jazz is on the list.