What makes Charleston so special?
Many have thought it's a great place to visit for a long time. Maybe that's why Charleston topped Conde Nast Traveler's "Best Small Cities In The US" list for 10 years running. It held that crown once again last year.
So we'll start this guide with some words we couldn't have said better. From the 2023 Conde Nast Traveler awards issue.
Charleston may be a small town, but this city punches well above its weight. When you consider everything it has to offer—history, culture, food, charm—it’s no wonder the so-called Holy City has repeatedly topped our list of the best small cities in the U.S. While its robust F&B scene, which includes a steady annual circuit of nationally recognized food and culture festivals, continues to be a draw, visitors are rarely prepared for the city's good looks. Stately homes, cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and an abundance of flowering window boxes only add to its welcoming vibe. Find a seat among its many outdoor terraces for a drink and some fresh oysters (we recommend hitting the Ordinary), and try to resist the urge to up and move here.