A Shower of Fun Awaits: Spend Your Rainy Day Indulgently in Charleston, SC
Hurricane clouds may have darkened Charleston’s iconic skyline, but who’s to say you can’t find a silver lining in the storm clouds? Charleston, the jewel of the South Carolina coast, boogies to a different beat when the rain rolls in. You may wonder, “What energetic excursions exist in Charleston when it pours?”. There are plentiful opportunities to explore the city’s rich history, culinary scene, and even take time for some self-pampering. When the weather ignores your vacation plans, fear not – this guide shows you how to dance in the rain, Charleston style.
Embrace Southern History Indoors
As heavy droplets tap against the cobblestones, take a day to explore Charleston’s marvelous manors and historical haunts. Begin with Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War echoed. Although you may miss out on sweeping ocean vistas, the indoor exhibits tell a riveting tale of secession and conflict. Similarly, paying a visit to Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum offers a deep dive into naval history without getting your feet wet.
The Meandering Museums of the Holy City
Next, the grand museums of Charleston invite you in with open arms. At the Charleston Museum, you can explore South Carolina’s history, from the first Native American tribes to the recent glittering debutante balls. A stone’s throw away is the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, perfect for those wanting to keep younger minds intrigued and engaged in play.
Slow Your Pulse with a Soothing Spa
While Charleston dances with drizzle, opt for a day of rest and relaxation. The Restoration Spa and The Spa at Belmond Charleston Place are favored retreats to unwind and detox while listening to the gentle pitter-patter of rain against the windows. These environments’ soothing nature helps facilitate total relaxation and wellness.
Pamper Your Taste Buds
Charleston’s culinary scene offers an overwhelming array of tantalizing flavors, from Lowcountry classics to inventive fusion dishes. Cozy up in a classic café for a bowl of authentic shrimp and grits, or indulge in the exquisite “Farm to Table” experience at Husk, where the menu changes daily according to what’s fresh and in season.
Shop ’til You Drop at the Charleston Place Shops
Combating Charleston’s rainfall can be as simple as shopping ’til you drop. The Belmond Charleston Place houses an array of designer stores for your retail therapy convenience. Whether you’re hunting for illustrious labels or local crafts, these indoor markets promise a shopping spree fit for a king.
End Your Day with a Drink
If you’re a wine lover or a craft beer aficionado, Charleston’s bars are the perfect places to while away a rainy evening. Wine bars like Graft have made a splash with their wide range of vintages and relaxed, intimate vibes, while breweries like Revelry offers the city’s fine beers right from the source.
Brilliance Amidst the Rain
Even when Charleston’s typically sunny skies are clouded over, there’s a myriad of indoor experiences ready to seize the day. From exploring historical monuments to spas and shopping, Charleston keeps the fun flowing even when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Fort Sumter worth visiting in the rain?
Yes! Fort Sumter has indoor exhibits that detail its fascinating Civil War history, making it an ideal place to visit even in bad weather.
2. What food is Charleston known for?
Charleston is known for its classic Lowcountry food such as shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes, as well as its distinct ‘Farm to Table’ dining scene.
3. Where can I shop in Charleston when it rains?
Belmond Charleston Place houses a variety of stores, ranging from high-end designer brands to local crafts. It’s a perfect shopping location even during a downpour.
4. Does Charleston have craft breweries?
You bet they do! Craft breweries, like the popular Revelry, proliferate in Charleston offering a variety of local beers to enjoy.
5. What can kids do in Charleston when it rains?
The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is a fantastic indoor destination for kids, with many different exhibits to explore and learn from.