Charleston getaway

We just returned from a four day trip to the beautiful city of Charleston, SC.  It was lovely to have this mini vacation before hubby returns to Belgium.

There are so many historical buildings, museums, plantations, forts and parks to visit.  Many of these were within walking distance of the Lodge Alley Inn where we stayed. 

 The Inn has several buildings.  We were in the Griffith Suites building that was originally used as a powder magazine during the Civil War and has heavily reinforced walls and ceiling.

At four o’clock each afternoon the Inn served sherry and cookies in the lobby.  The weather was so warm that we often sat in the courtyard instead.

We were amazed by the number of restaurants in the historic district.  High Cotton and Magnolias, two excellent choices were on either side of Lodge Alley.  One of my favorite meals in Charleston is Shrimp & Grits, which I enjoyed at the High Cotton Sunday brunch.

 

Some of the best grits I had were from the Dixie Supply Bakery and Café.  We were told that Dixie Supply was on the Food Network show, Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.  The local stone-ground grits are cooked in heavy cream and butter, which gives them a wonderful creamy texture.

A horse drawn carriage ride is a popular way to enjoy the many sights.  Our guide was very knowledgeable and our tour enjoyable.  They decide your route after you have boarded and there are several.  We were a little disappointed that our route did not cover the battery with its magnificent homes and Rainbow Row.  

 So many of the buildings featured beautiful wrought iron gates and balconies.  The wealthy had little gardens tucked away behind their gates.  Many of the homes that did not have gardens had window boxes filled with flowers. 

Monday afternoon was spent at The Charleston Museum.  I was surprised at the size of their collection and delighted at the many tea related artifacts.  They have a great Historic Textiles Gallery, Civil War artifacts, historic Charleston silver and much more.

 

There was one antique store that we passed on our way back from the museum.  They had two tea caddies for sale, one traditional style with wood and crystal and this unusual one.  The $375 price tag was not in my budget.  My shopping consisted of adding a couple of Pandora beads to my bracelet at The Shops of Charleston Place in the Charleston Place Hotel.  I also bought a tea bag caddy and a lovely Charleston souvenir photo book.

 Of course, a visit to the Historic Charleston City Market was a must.  There are four blocks of open air buildings with the main entrance on Meeting Street.  Locally made sweetgrass baskets are beautiful and collectible and you can see them being woven and purchase them at the market.

I’m sure that you can tell by now that I loved my second visit to Charleston.  Everyone should visit this great city at least once.