Explore the Charleston City Market

Explore the Charleston City Market

The Charleston City Market is a historic landmark and must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city of Charleston, South Carolina. This market has been in operation for over 200 years and is filled with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food. Here are some of the top things to do when exploring the Charleston City Market:

Shop for Handmade Crafts

The Charleston City Market is known for its handmade crafts, including sweetgrass baskets, jewelry, pottery, and more. Visitors can browse the many stalls and find unique gifts to take home as souvenirs.

Sample Local Food

The Charleston City Market is also a great place to sample local food. Visitors can try classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes. There are also plenty of sweet treats to try, including pralines and Benne wafers.

Learn About the Market’s History

The Charleston City Market has a rich history, and visitors can learn about its past by exploring its many historic buildings. The market was established in the early 1800s and has been an important part of the city’s commerce ever since.

Watch the Sweetgrass Basket Weavers

One of the highlights of the Charleston City Market is the sweetgrass basket weavers. Visitors can watch these skilled artisans create beautiful baskets from the local sweetgrass. Many weavers are happy to chat with visitors and share their knowledge of this traditional craft.

Take a Tour

Visitors can also take a tour of the Charleston City Market to learn more about its history and significance. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can answer any questions visitors may have.

Tips for Exploring the Charleston City Market:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Charleston City Market is a large area, and visitors should be prepared to do some walking. It’s important to wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your visit.

Bring Cash

While some vendors may accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring cash when exploring the Charleston City Market. This will make it easier to purchase items from the many vendors.

Plan Ahead

There are so many vendors and stalls at the Charleston City Market, so it’s important to plan ahead and prioritize the areas and items that interest you the most.

Visit Early

The Charleston City Market can get crowded later in the day, so visitors may want to consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Conclusion

Exploring the Charleston City Market is a great way to experience the history and culture of the city. Visitors can shop for handmade crafts, sample local food, learn about the market’s history, watch the sweetgrass basket weavers, and take a tour. To make the most of your visit, wear comfortable shoes, bring cash, plan ahead, and consider visiting early in the day.