Good 'Ol Southern Hospitality

The carriage ride through Historic Charleston was informative and fun for our kids. Our guide shared lots of stories, some tall tales ,and some true history, and made us laugh. His accent was geniune and he seemed to have a real love for his city. Just like everyone else we met in Charleston, his view of the Civil War was one we Yankees had never considered.

We then spent a beautiful afternoon walking along the Battery taking in the view of the gorgeous older mansions on one side and the open water to Fort Sumter on the other. A trip by boat out to Fort Sumter was my husband's favorite, being the history buff that he is.

You feel like you've stepped back in time wandering through old Charleston. I found it interesting that all the history was so cautious in its description of Civil War information so as not to offend the tourists or the locals. That's what I call unbiased reporting!

Quick Tips:

Take a night ghost tour! This was truly entertaining and one of the more unique things we did. We were only there for two days, so we had to do our research ahead to try to pack as much into the time as we could. Check the internet for Charleston Visitors Bureau and they'll send you lots of helpful literature, as well as coupons and discounts for hotels, restaurants, tours, etc. If you have more than a few days, there is plenty to do in the city of Charleston, but we also found that in the surrounding areas we could have spent much more time. I'd love to go back so we can play a little golf on some of the fine courses, shop in the antique districts, and visit Kiawah Island.

Best Way To Get Around:

Park and wander! Your legs will grow weary but it is worth it to take the stroll. I'd suggest staying close to the historic district even though it is more pricey to do so, but it is worth it to fully explore on foot. You do need a car if you are getting out of that area to see plantations, do more shopping, golf, or expand your experience in any way.

As we wandered the streets, we came across A.W. Shucks -- doors wide open, music playing, and people talking and laughing loudly over dinner. It seemed like the kind of place that we were looking for. Dark wood and lots of booth space made if feel relaxed.

We each ordered something different and shared. No one opted for raw oysters. We're not that brave in my family. We all enjoyed the stuffed shrimp and the Cajun catfish. The atmosphere was very casual and inviting. They were busy but the service was quick and excellent. I could have been completely satisfied with the variety of appetizers they have on their menu without ordering a full meal. Portions were large and filling.

Driving here along the Charleston River was like time travel. It is a beautiful drive with trees lining the road. I could picture taking the carriage there for the summer barbecue at the plantation, just like in Gone with the Wind.

Spending time through the Gardens and the Plantation home and the outer buildings was well worth the admission cost. It gave us insight into a whole different world than the one my children are growing up in. We enjoyed just sitting on the big front porch for a "spell" and sitting on the big branch of a huge old tree out front and thinking about time gone by. Our youngest son enjoyed the hedge maze.

We have taken many vacations as a family but often feel so busy trying to take everything in, but the pace of Charleston and our visit to the plantation felt very slow moving and relaxing. It was a refreshing feeling.

Our kids enjoyed the boat ride out more than the time spent at Fort Sumter as we saw a dolphin swimming along with us. However, my husband and I found the place fascinating. The details, old photos, cannons, and description of the devastation really gave a great story of the Civil War. We've seen many Civil War sites, but this one brought so much more information to us, especially from the perspective of the confederates. I was amazed to learn about the many inventions and improvements of weaponry that were made in that area and time period. You need to be a true history buff to completely enjoy this. I think my husband could have spent his entire two days in this one location reading every little detail provided.