OK, so as of lately, Charleston is admittedly becoming a bit of a destination. But long before its reputation as an up and coming city began to take shape, its charming architecture, rich history, and dazzling landscapes humbly framed the city in a most quiet and unassuming way. Locals can tell you how much the city has changed in their lifetime—just ask any one of the exceptionally affable bartenders downtown. From North King Street to Boone Hall to Sullivan’s Island, there is certainly plenty to see—and eat.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Charleston is its sheer age, and the history that permeates every piece of the city. The oldest city in South Carolina, Charleston was founded in 1670, and it shows. A walk through its historic downtown area presents visitors with pristine examples of architectural styles spanning the last few centuries. One highlight, located on East Bay Street, is known as Rainbow Row, and comprises several 18^th century Georgian townhouses, each painted a different pastel hue. If you continue to stroll along the waterfront, the grandeur and magnificence of the houses you will witness is like something out of a movie. But pretty much any street you may stumble upon or wander through downtown will offer you some gems—be sure to stop at any wrought iron gates you may notice for a peep at the lush, meticulously landscaped gardens as well—a treat in and of themselves.

Some houses are open for tours, as are some of the many plantations in Charleston. The most beautiful, of course, is Boone Hall. In speaking of scenes from a movie, well—this is your spot. Many movies have been shot on the grounds of Boone because, as you will see, it is absolutely spectacular. Upon entering, you are greeted by the famous Avenue of Oaks, which will leave you feeling utterly small and speechless. A tour of the house will fill you in on the incredible history of the well preserved home and grounds, still occupied as a residence to this day. The grounds, which you are free to wander, lend insight into the storied past of the plantation, through a number of generations and chapters in our nation’s history.

Sullivan’s Island also boasts a significant historical landmark, in addition to serving as the home of Bill Murray of course. In between keeping an eye out in hopes of bumping into everyone’s favorite celebrity, take a stroll through Fort Moultrie, well kept by the National Park Service, and thus remaining an unspoiled example of several periods of use, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War and beyond. If you tire of studying its fortified passageways and various forms of artillery, take a quick walk down to the adjacent beach for a lovely view of the Atlantic.

If you get hungry, North King Street has everything you could possibly ever dream of—especially the favorite local dish, shrimp and grits. I strongly recommend trying it at least once, and when you do, Charleston Beer Works is a good place to do it. The incredibly welcoming and likeable bartender is proud to boast their chef’s noteworthy take on classic dishes, and this one certainly does not disappoint. Once your belly is full (and it will be) there is plenty more to see downtown. The Historic Charleston City Market is a good place to walk off those calories (let’s face it, good Southern cooking is not as lowfat as it is delicious). There you can find some great locally made crafts, such as traditional sweetgrass baskets.

If you are on a shoestring budget like myself, you will likely have stayed by the airport, which is not actually a terrible thing—North Charleston holds its own in the restaurant realm to be sure. Check out East Montague Street for a number of great dining options. I personally recommend Sesame Burger, just around the corner on Spriull Ave. They’ll do any burger sans bun, over a salad, which is good after the amount of fried chicken and seafood you’ll have consumed on your trip (trust me).

Charleston is a city with such a rich and well preserved history that it’s remarkable to think how much new life is constantly being breathed into the place, every day. The locals are young and impossibly attractive and cool, but still ever appreciative of the timeless culture of the city. Walk around. Breathe it in. Feel yourself fall into a different era, then another, and another. Then you will have experienced what it truly means to visit Charleston.