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This South Carolina City Named America’s #1 Favorite City, Again!

Now, we all know there is a little friendly competition when it comes to cities in America. We all love to represent our city or state that we consider to…

Rainbow Row in Charleston, South Carolina, USA.

Rainbow Row in Charleston, South Carolina, USA.

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Now, we all know there is a little friendly competition when it comes to cities in America. We all love to represent our city or state that we consider to be the best of the best. Every year, Travel + Leisure does their "World's Best Awards." This is a chance for the readers to vote in different categories for cities, places, etc. they consider to be the best. Now, this year is no different when it comes to the love that a particular South Carolina city got.

You guessed it, Charleston, South Carolina was voted (AGAIN) the readers' #1 favorite city in the U.S. Not only is it America's favorite, but it's almost mine because this is my hometown. Travel + Leisure readers love Charleston and all of its charm it has to offer. In Charleston, you can enjoy the beach, history, shopping, amazing food, and tons of other things to make you fall in love with the charm. Readers were gushing over the friendly locals, restaurant options, and the amount of hotels that the area has to offer. This is the second year in a row that Charleston is walking away with the #1 title. Rightfully so, if you ask me.

Other cities that made the list of the readers' favorites include:

  • Savannah, GA
  •  Santa Fe, NM
  • Honolulu, HI
  • Nashville, TN
  • San Diego, CA

Check out the full list here and see what other cities that their readers loved and why.

5 Things to Do In Charleston, South Carolina People Don’t Tell You About

Call me a simp, but I may or may not miss home from time to time. I was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina and as much as I was ready to get out of there, it still holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, I use to think there was never much of anything to do. Don't get me wrong, some things are questionable but it's still home for me.

I don't go home often, but whenever people tell me they're going to Charleston I love telling them places to go and things to do. It's no fun being simple and going to the same old boring spots that everyone knows about. Sometimes being a local gives me the upper hand to know what places to recommend. So, I decided to put a list together of 5 spots that most people don't tell you about whenever you're visiting. I'm not saying these aren't places you may have not heard of, but it's places and things that hold a special place in my heart. So, let's take a crack at it!

Dave's Carry Out

If it's one thing I am going to do, it's eat some GREAT seafood when I am home. Everyone knows all of the popular sit-down, fancy restaurants around Downtown and Mt. Pleasant, but I know more local hole in the wall spots. My grandma has been in the same house since she was born in Downtown Charleston and this seafood spots is right around the corner. Dave's is my favorite place to eat whenever I am home. The small corner spot is serving hot, fresh seafood that will make you melt. I always enjoy the shrimp platter and it's nothing like it. The hours are a bit weird, but it's so worth it if you can catch them when they're open.

Nexton Community

Nexton is a new area in the Summerville area, but it's well worth the visit. In Nexton, you will find plenty of food places and shopping, and homes to sightsee. From Viscous Biscuit having a line out the door during brunch, Bad Daddy's Burger Bar, Halls Chophouse, Ever Creamery, and so much more. If you want to just relax and enjoy a good day out in the sun, Nexton is a great spot to check out.

Sullivan's Island

Check out Sullivan's Island if you are wanting the beach feels, but not to much of the crowd. Sullivan's Island is perfect spot to enjoy the beach and relax but not the complete chaos that Folly Beach and Isle of Palms may have. Trust me when I say, there is a difference. Either way, you're on the beach and can grab a bite to eat when you're free.

North Charleston Farmer's Market

If you're looking for something cute and new to do, then head to the North Charleston Farmer's Market. Enjoy so many fresh things from bread, fruit, vegetables, and so much more. There will also be tons of local baked goods from Charleston's famous chewies to so much more! Sounds like a good time, doesn't it?

Whirlin' Waters

Oddly enough, many people don't know that Charleston has a water park. Yes, a water park. There are water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and more to enjoy. Head to Whirlin' Waters in North Charleston if you want to enjoy a good time with water not at the beach. There is plenty to do and you can grab some good food while you're there. Fun fact, I used to work there in the food services department.

Randi Moultrie is a Charleston, South Carolina native and has been in the radio industry for the last few years in Charlotte. Randi started with Beasley Media Group as an intern in 2019 and is now thriving in the digital world. Randi enjoys writing about her favorite foods (especially pizza) and all things fashion and travel. As one who loves taking trips to find new foods, it’s not surprising that she enjoys writing about both!