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Get away to Charleston for pastel houses and picturesque eats.
Belinda Carlisle was right—heaven really is a place on earth, and it’s only a ~four-hour drive from the Cap City. Enter Charleston, the Holy City famed for its preservation of rich (and dark) history, surplus of churches, and restos and bars tucked in distinctive architecture.
I recently escaped to the heavenly SC city, with 86 Cannon serving as my home base, an inn nestled amid the pastel houses, snippets of history and acclaimed fare. The refreshed adults-only boutique hotel serves up the ideal cozy combo of the city’s storied vibes and Southern charm with a modern spin—perfect for honeymooning, girls tripping or just riding solo. Here’s what to know for the ultimate pilgrimage south to Chucktown.
Patio Perfection
There’s no better spot to start the day than on 86 Cannon’s extensive sun-kissed patio attached to the main house. Basking in the breeze surrounded by the tops of palm trees on the outdoor couches paired with a brekky of housemade yogurt, locally made quiches, and a variety of juices and coffee ops made for the perfect morning serotonin boost.
Sunny Sipping
Who doesn’t love a wine and cheese moment? Embedding 86 Cannon’s happy hour into my before-dinner routine was the perfect pick-me-up before taking to the streets again. Pro tip: The orange wine matches the vibes impeccably.
Must-Do List
It’s easiest to walk or bike around Chucktown (plus better for taking in the gorge architecture), so grab one of the boutique hotel’s bikes and put the pedal to the metal. Or, embrace your inner homebody with a dip in the courtyard pool or a break in the library.
Eat Your Heart Out
Cannonborough—the neighborhood the inn calls home—is on the come-up as a foodie destination. “Foxy neighborhood den” By The Way was my personal favorite for its signature drinks (the Dirty Spritz changed my life) and Southern fare served with a side of good vibes and outgoing staff—plus it was just a 10-minute jaunt from 86 Cannon. And don’t sleep on French fine-dining mainstay Bistronomy by Nico (also just down the street!). For escargot with puff pastry (!) and scallops with coconut rice, it’s definitely worth the splurge.
Come and Sea
For me, a platter of raw oysters when visiting Charleston are nonnegotiable. If you decide to venture towards the Pineapple Fountain or Rainbow Row, neighborhood waterfront resto Fleet Landing has you covered for any seafood or raw bar hankering—plus seaside views for days.
Dance the Night Away
Stay out for another drink? Twist my arm. When post-dinner sips beckon, the Holy City has a lively bar scene on lock. Belly up to Felix for a colorful twist on signature cocktails in a moody modern-meets-1920s atmosphere—or, if you’re a fan of Bravo’s Southern Hospitality, Republic is a stone’s throw away. And there’s no better way to close out the night than by dipping your toes in the sleazy side of things by grabbing a beer and belting a tune at Bangkok Lounge. If you’re an early-to-bed type and day drinking is more your speed, grab some frosé to go at The Co-Op just across Cannon Street and sip while you kick back by the pool.
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