Are you a new Charleston resident whose weekends are getting more boring by the second? Or maybe you’re moving or staying in Charleston and need things to do.
In either case, add Historic King Street to your must-visit list. This shopping district runs throughout the Charleston peninsula. Here, there are hundreds of stores and restaurants to see–which means you’ll need to prepare for large crowds of people and plenty of traffic.
But trust us when we say that King Street is worth the hassle. Plus, if you plan your Charleston shopping ahead of time and narrow down some must-visit stores, you’ll be able to tackle King Street with ease.
9 Must-Visit Stores on King Street
King Street is famous for its hundreds of stores and restaurants. Did you know that a whopping 91% of the buildings on this historic street are occupied? From brands like Apple, Louis Vuitton, and Kate Spade to unique boutique shops offering handcrafted and personalized goods, there’s something for every shopper.
1. Blue Bicycle Books
Blue Bicycle Books is like a paradise for book lovers and history lovers alike. It offers a collection of new, used, and rare books, and plenty of local Charleston-related books. This charming bookstore is loved for its shelves of rare first editions, making it a must-visit for all the bookworms like me!
2. Croghan’s Jewel Box
Croghan’s Jewel Box has been a family-owned treasure trove on King Street for over a century. This store in downtown Charleston is known for its stunning antique and estate jewelry collection, designer jewelry, custom jewelry designs, and gifts. They carry the following jewelry pieces:
- Bracelets
- Rings (including engagement and wedding bands)
- Necklaces
- Earrings
- Pendants
- Charms
3. Candlefish
If you want your home to smell amazing like I do, then Candlefish is a must-visit store.
Candlefish is not just a store; it’s an experience. Sure, you can buy some premade candles and be on your way. But the store is a household name for its unique candle-making workshops.
But if you’re in a rush, the store offers over 100 premade candles, making it easy to find the perfect fragrance for your home. I loved this interactive adventure. It definitely makes Candlefish a standout destination for lower King Street shopping.
4. George C. Birlant & Co.
If antique shopping intrigues you, George C. Birlant & Co. is one of the largest family-owned antique shops in the southeastern United States. The store specializes in 18th and 19th-century antiques, furniture reproductions, silver, china, and crystal.
This store also has a subsidiary store called Charleston Battery Bench, which crafts beautiful benches from durable South Carolina cypress. Charleston Battery Bench is also located on King Street for those interested in adding a new piece to their outdoor space.
5. Lake Pajamas
Who doesn’t love to get cozy? If you’re a big fan of relaxing at home like me, then you’re going to need a nice pair of pajamas, and Lake Pajamas has exactly that.
Lake Pajamas offers a line of pajamas, loungewear, and daywear for women, men, and children. The store focuses on cozy pajama and lounge sets, nightgowns, and luxurious robes. Their sets make perfect gifts or you can grab one for yourself for a relaxing night in!
6. Freebird
Freebird is the perfect place to get your new pair of cowboy boots! But, if you’re not a fan of cowboy boots, this store has plenty of other beautiful leather boot options for both men and women.
Whether you’re looking for a brand-new pair of sandals, booties, heels, dress boots, or even a hat, this store has it! Everything in this store is made from handcrafted leather, bringing you the best of the best. I highly recommend checking out their hat collection!
7. HART
HART is the go-to destination on Upper King Street for customizable jewelry. The store specializes in charm and pendant necklaces, built with specialty gemstones and charms shaped like hearts and birds.
Almost all pieces are tarnish-resistant gold-plated jewelry, ensuring your special necklace or bracelet will last for years to come. This King Street store is perfect for personalized unique gifts or even pieces for yourself!
8. Harvest Moon Home
If you’re looking for unique pieces to spruce up your home or need a housewarming gift, Harvest Moon Home is the place to go! This beautiful home decor store has anything you could ever need for your house, including:
- Decorative pillows
- Candles and candleholders
- Unique dishes
- Artwork
- Tea towels
- Vases
In addition to home decor, the store also offers clothing and stationery products like journals, planners, and cards. I love that everything at this store has a vintage flair, making it stick out among some of the other stores.
9. Sewing Down South
If the southern coastal look is more your style for home decor, Sewing Down South is the perfect option.
This King Street store’s products include things ranging from decorative pillows to candles, blankets, and even clothing. Many of the designs feature fish, beachy colors, and florals, which can give your home a beautiful coastal look.
Parking Suggestions When Visiting King Street
King Street does have some street parking, but it typically fills up quickly. Some great alternative places to park near King Street include the following:
- Marion Square Parking Garage
- Wentworth Street Garage
- Majestic Square Garage
- Charleston Place Garage
Final Thoughts
As a new resident of the Charleston area, you’re thinking about ways to spend your weekends. However, you may also want to think about self-storage options in the area.
Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace, can provide you with many affordable self-storage choices in all 50 states. And you can save up to 50% when compared to traditional storage options! Once you’re settled in, you can make up to $294 of passive income per hour worked if you choose to become a host yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Products Is Charleston Known For?
Charleston is known for many products, with many of them being food-related. Some of these stapes include shrimp and grits, Frogmore Stew (seafood boil), and sweet tea.
How Do I Spend a Day in Downtown Charleston?
You may want to start the day in downtown Charleston with a walk through one of the local parks for a relaxing morning. Then check out some museums and the Charleston City Market, shop on King Street, stop by the water parks, and end the day at a delicious restaurant!
If you’re more of an outdoorsy type, visit one of Charleston’s top kayaking spots or renowned state parks.
