Madison & Austin
Things To Do
Middleton Place Restaurant
Middleton Place Restaurant is on the same property as the wedding and just a stroll from The Inn. They strongly encourage reservations beforehand which can be made via phone or RESY.
Zen Asian Fusion
Delicious lunch or dinner spot for Asian food. Madison love their gyoza and edamame, Austin enjoys the shrimp tempura roll (with yum yum sauce!), and everyone enjoys the West Ashley Roll.
Middleton Place Equestrian Center
If you like horseback riding and would like to explore Middleton, then this will certainly be a fun activity. Each ride is approximately one hour long and includes a guide who will provide a brief history of the Plantation, rice culture and other points of interest along the way. Please be sure to book your ride in advance.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Next door to Middleton is Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. They invite you to stroll through the historic gardens, learn about the horticulture and nature thriving in the Lowcountry, survey the wildlife that call Magnolia home, and explore over 300 years of history. If you love walking around Middleton Place, this is another beautiful spot to explore.
Drayton Hall
Two properties down from Middleton, and next to Magnolia, is Drayton Hall. Founded in 1738, Drayton Hall is the nation’s earliest example of fully executed Palladian architecture and the oldest preserved plantation house in America still open to the public. Great tour for all history buffs.
Slightly North of Broad Restaurant
A Charleston classic restaurant where you will be sure to find some delicious food. They are known for their beef carpaccio and shrimp and grits with a slight kick to them. Madison loves their scallops, her dad loves the swordfish, and Austin loves the pork chop. Be sure to make a reservation beforehand as this is downtown and stays busy.
Citrus Club
The Citrus Club is located on top of the Dewberry Hotel, has great drinks, and an awesome view. They are first come first serve (Madison recommends adding your name to the list, doing some shopping around King Street/the Marion Square Farmer's Market (if open), and coming back over when they text you). If you are near The Market, Stars Rooftop and Grill Room is another rooftop bar worth checking out. You can take the elevators up to the top floor and you'll be there. Last, but certainly not least, The Vendue is another rooftop bar that is a favorite cocktail and sunset spot.
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
Fleet Landing is a perfect lunch spot that is waterfront (if you're lucky, you might see the dolphins). They have great food and one of the best views. Located downtown and they take reservations. They are located next to the Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park and not too far from Rainbow Row.
The Darling Oyster Bar
The Darling Oyster Bar is one of many that has fantastic oysters (and March is prime oyster season!) They take reservations and are located downtown. If you want a no reservation option that is equally delicious, then be sure to check out 167 Raw Oyster Bar. They can have a long wait so Madison likes to add her name to the list, do some shopping at The Charleston Place or The Market, and come back when the table is ready.
Magnolias
Another Charleston classic in the heart of downtown that is focused around Southern cuisine. Madison's parents held their rehearsal dinner here in 1997 and her Aunt Tracy and Uncle Link had their wedding reception upstairs. Magonolias is Madison's favorite place for shrimp and grits. Please make reservations beforehand (Blossom and Cypress are the sister restaurants and nice alternatives if Magnolias is booked).
Halls Chophouse
If you are looking for a fancy dinner out and want a delicious steak, Halls Chophouse is your answer. They are known for their top quality service, Allen Brother's steak selection, and they have a Gospel Brunch on Sundays. Madison and Austin's favorite espresso martini is at Halls. Reservations will be needed in advance.
Three Little Birds Cafe
Three Little Birds is a local known breakfast spot that is quite tasty. If you like sweets, the Peanut Butter, Banana, & Honey, Stuffed Challah French Toast is fantastic, and if you're more savory, the Breakfast Burrito is equally great. They make a fantastic smoothie as well. They are walk-in only so no reservations needed (there is usually a 15-30 minute wait but it's worth it!)
Palmetto Carriage Works
March is one of the best times of the year for a carriage ride. If you are looking for a tour of downtown Charleston, this can be a great way to do it. Be sure to wear layers as it may be slightly chilly.
Charleston City Market (The Market)
If you are headed downtown, be sure to take a stroll through The Market which is lined with local vendors, artists, and seagrass baskets. On the outer streets, there are lots of places to eat, praline samples, Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe, Ben & Jerry's ice cream, and tons of souvenir shops.