With its vibrant culture, rich history, exquisitely-preserved architecture, idyllic coastal location, celebrated dining scene and friendly locals, Charleston is one of America’s best loved travel destinations. Come, experience what’s new in the Charleston area this spring!
Accolades
New Restaurants
Restaurant News
Retail
Accommodations
Tours & Attractions
Highlighted Special Events
ACCOLADES
BABYLON
145 Calhoun Street, Unit 102, Charleston
babylonchs.com | @babylonchs
Charleston’s nightlife scene is getting a bold new addition with Babylon, a vibrant new bar that blends exotic elegance with modern flair. Inspired by the rich history and mystique of ancient Babylon, this stunning space offers an immersive cocktail experience, artful design and a lively atmosphere for those looking to sip, socialize and escape into a world of indulgence. Opened March 2025.
BRIT BRATT GARLIC CRABS
102 Rembert C Dennis Boulevard, Moncks Corner
Local chef and Lowcountry native Brittney Simmons has opened Britt Bratt Garlic Crabs in Moncks Corner. Menu standouts include the Black Box Special with crab legs, shrimp, lobster tail, corn, eggs and sausage. The restaurant plays host to themed nights like Soul Seafood Wednesdays and Fry Crab Fridays with all-you-can-eat options and daily chef lunch and dinner specials. Opened May 2025.
CAFÉ CHARLOTTE
874 Orleans Road, Charleston
cafecharlottesc.com | @cafecharlottecharleston
Café Charlotte, a cozy European-style café, is now open in West Ashley at Summerall Square Shopping Center. This family-owned establishment, with roots from Berlin, Germany, offers a delicious selection of German pastries like apple strudel, sweet treats, all-day breakfast and Italian-style sandwiches. Guests can also enjoy rich, aromatic coffee brewed from an authentic Italian espresso machine. Open Monday through Saturday, Café Charlotte is a perfect spot to savor a taste of Europe close to home. Opened May 2025.
CLUTCH COFFEE
1173 SC-41, Mount Pleasant
clutchcoffeebar.com | @clutchcoffeebar
Fuel your day the Carolina way at Clutch Coffee in Mount Pleasant, a high-energy drive-through known in the Carolinas for its bold drinks, lightning-fast service and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re craving an iced latte, a fruit smoothie, or their exclusive Charleston Cheerwine Mocha, this local favorite delivers handcrafted beverages with a side of feel-good vibes. Opened May 2025.
COCONUT GLEN’S
105 East Arctic Avenue, Folly Beach
coconutglens.com | @coconutglensfollybeach
Hawaii’s beloved Coconut Glen’s ice cream makes its way to Folly Beach. The late founder, Glen Simkins, left his high-end chef career in Boston and set up shop in an old Volkswagen bus on the Road to Hana in Maui, eventually spearheading his authentic coconut-based ice cream recipe. Simkins soon became affectionately known as “Coconut Glen,” and his roadside stop became nationally renowned and recognized by publications like Condé Nast Traveler. Known for using coconut milk and fresh ingredients, Coconut Glen’s offers a variety of flavors along with vegan, gluten-free and organic options. Opened May 2025.
CRAFTHOUSE NORTH
901 Warrior Way, Suite 101, Mount Pleasant
communitycrafthouse.com |@communitycrafthouse
At this new craft beer bar in North Mount Pleasant, enjoy 12 rotating draft options on their covered outdoor patio, including craft beer, wine and cocktails served through an innovative bottom-up dispensing system. Guests can also enjoy an extensive selection of canned beer and frosé. For food, Crafthouse North will continue its collaboration with Max Sushi, known from Community Crafthouse, offering signature cooked and raw sushi rolls, poke and gyoza. Opened May 2025.
DASHI WINE BAR
5660 Rivers Avenue, Unit J, North Charleston
dashichs.com | @dashichs
Dashi is expanding with a new wine bar, just down the road from its flagship restaurant. This new concept will spotlight wines from Spain, Portugal and across Central and South America available by the glass, by the bottle and to-go. The beverage list will also feature draft and canned beer, sake by the glass and nonalcoholic offerings. Guests can expect a curated menu of pintxos, inspired by the bold flavors of Spain’s Basque region, all prepared by the Dashi culinary team. Opening Summer 2025.
DAWN PATROL COFFEEHOUSE
608 Harbourview Road, Charleston
@dawnpatrolcoffeehouse
Dawn Patrol Coffeehouse is a new addition to James Island’s vibrant café scene, offering a cozy spot for coffee enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. Located in the heart of the island, this inviting coffeehouse serves a variety of expertly brewed coffees, teas and light bites in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Opening Summer 2025.
FRANK & JACK’S
1434 I’On Road, Mount Pleasant
frankandjackschs.com | @frankandjackschs
Frank & Jack’s is a unique restaurant and event space offering nostalgic comfort food with a contemporary twist. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully crafted dishes, craft cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere featuring indoor dining, a spacious outdoor lawn with a walk-up bar and a family-friendly ice cream shack. Whether for casual gatherings, private events or live music, Frank & Jack’s is a place to relax, connect and create lasting memories. Opening Summer 2025.
GRIT BAKERY
601 Meeting Street, Charleston
gritbakery.com | @gritbakery
Allison Anspach, who started Grit as a cottage bakery in California, has brought her style of sourdough breads, baguettes, croissants, danishes and other baked goods to Charleston. The Scandinavian-inspired open concept allows patrons to watch Anspach and her staff rolling dough and crafting seasonal pastries. A small coffee program also accompanies the baked goods. Opened May 2025.
GROUCHO’S DELI
975 Savannah Highway, Charleston
grouchos.com | @grouchos_deli
Groucho’s Deli has opened a new Charleston location, led by a fourth-generation member of the family who founded it. After attending the College of Charleston, Max Miller opened his first Groucho’s Deli in Mount Pleasant in 2020. The deli, known for its “dipper” subs, large salads and signature Formula 45 Sauce, was first franchised in the early 2000s by Bruce Miller, the third generation to operate the restaurant. Open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday and lunch on Sunday. Opened April 2025.
JEFF’S BAGEL RUN
1400 Palm Boulevard, Isle of Palms
jeffsbagelrun.com | @jeffsbagelrun
A national bagel chain makes its way to Isle of Palms. Owners, Jeff and Danielle turned a passion for baking into a booming business that’s redefining the bagel experience. What started in their home kitchen quickly grew into a neighborhood favorite known for scratch-made, New York-style bagels made fresh daily. Jeff’s Bagel Run is built on quality, community and a belief that something simple, done with care, can be extraordinary. Opened April 2025.
KATSUBŌ CHICKEN & RAMEN
4628 Spruill Avenue, North Charleston
katsuboeats.com | @katsuboeats
Katsubō Chicken & Ramen prides itself on not only serving food but delivering full-on flavor experiences. Their ramen begins with slow-simmered broths and craveable toppings that elevate everyday ingredients to the next level. The bar features Japanese-inspired cocktails, Japanese beers, sake and a curated wine selection, all perfectly paired with their crispy, double-fried chicken. Everything they create is infused with care, creativity and the Katsubō hustle–great food, great vibes, no shortcuts. Opened May 2025.
MADISON MAISON
145 Calhoun Street, Unit 201, Charleston
madisonmaisonchs.com | @madisonmaison_chs
Madison Maison, Charleston’s newest Champagne and caviar bar, brings a fusion of New York sophistication and French elegance to the city’s vibrant nightlife. Created by Kenner Group Hospitality, this upscale lounge on Calhoun Street offers an indulgent experience with a curated selection of fine Champagne, the exclusive RG Caviar, artisanal craft cocktails and delectable small bites. Madison Maison invites guests to savor opulence in an atmosphere of timeless glamour. Opened March 2025.
ROSEMARY ROSE
529 King Street, Charleston
nickelhotel.com | @thenickelhotel
Inspired by the sun-filled ease of the French Riviera, Rosemary Rose is an expansive indoor and outdoor rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Charleston. Furnished with hacienda-style furniture, handmade mosaic tables, local plantings and a stone fountain, this breezy space is the ideal place to soak up Charleston’s charm well into the evening. Enjoy this hidden oasis with a menu offering a curated selection of light bites and artisan cocktails. Opened June 2025.
TUTTI PIZZA
700 King Street, Charleston
tuttipizzachs.com | @tuttichs
Tutti Pizza is a casual pizza and wine-forward concept on Upper King Street in Charleston. Tutti is a partnership between Graft Wine Shop owners Femi Oyediran and Miles White and Oakwood Pizza Box owner Anthony Guerra. Tutti Pizza offers a casual dining atmosphere to enjoy pizza and salads with family and friends. Beer and wine are offered alongside a myriad of pizzeria-friendly, non-alcoholic drinks like sparkling lemonade. They offer round 18-inch NY Style pizzas as well as grandma-pie style pizzas that are 18 x 12 inches. Opened March 2025.
VOLPE
161 Rutledge Avenue, Charleston
volpecharleston.com | @volpe_chs
Volpe focuses on serving Italian American shareable plates in a rustic, lively atmosphere. The menu features a four-course, family-style meal, offering a more casual and affordable alternative to high-end Italian dining options. Opened March 2025.
16 HANDLES
654 Hopewell Drive, Charleston
16handles.com | @16handles
With over 16 flavors of premium soft-serve and endless toppings, 16 Handles is a frozen yogurt shop that invites guests to customize their perfect sweet treat. Known for its playful atmosphere and rotating seasonal offerings, it’s a go-to spot for families, students and anyone craving a refreshing dessert with a fun twist. Whether you’re craving classic vanilla or a bold, dairy-free option, 16 Handles delivers flavor and creativity in every swirl. Opened May 2025.
RESTAURANT NEWS
ISLANDER 71’S NEW MENUS
41st Ave, Isle of Palms
islander71.com | @islander71iop
Islander 71 is heating things up with a new lunch and dinner menu filled with fresh coastal flavors. Highlights include the seafood tower, shrimp + crab pasta marsala and Bettie Jane’s Crab Cakes.
LEGAMI LAUNCHES BRUNCH
492 King Street, Charleston
legamichs.com | @legamicharleston
Legami, the contemporary Italian restaurant from the Washington Street Hospitality team, has officially launched its brunch service. Their brunch is offered on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The menu features dishes inspired by recipes that Chef Andrea Conguista grew up enjoying, as well as a selection of classic brunch dishes.
MABEL MAE’S BAKERY + ATLYSS FOOD COLLECTIVE
476 Meeting Street, Charleston
atylssfoodco.com | @atlyssfoodco
Mabel Mae’s Bakery is now available seven days a week at Atlyss Food Collective. This expansion not only brings greater access to Mabel Mae’s lineup of better-for-you treats but also marks a major shift for Atlyss—now open on weekends for the very first time. The collaboration between Mabel Mae’s and Atlyss creates a full-service café and bakery experience available every day of the week, offering thoughtfully crafted, nutrient-dense meals and sweets all under one roof. Together, the two hope to create an enriching culinary space that nourishes the local community, supports family wellness and celebrates the joy of eating well.
RUE DE JEAN NEW HOURS AND BITES
39 John Street, Charleston
holycityhospitality.com | @39ruedejean
Rue de Jean has new hours and new bites, and is now open later on Fridays and Saturdays, from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., with brand-new brunch hours on both days from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Be sure to also check out the new Bar Bites menu available nightly from 8 PM. to closing.
KULTURA’S GUEST CHEF DINNER SERIES “SAMA-SAMA”
73 Spring Street, Charleston
kulturacharleston.com | @kulturacharleston
James Beard Award-nominated Chef Nikko Cagalanan and the Kultura team have introduced “Sama-Sama”, a new monthly guest chef dinner series. Each month until July 16, a different guest chef works with Cagalanan on a one-night-only, five-course tasting menu. Guest chefs mirror the same mission as Kultura: to honor roots, uplift communities and create joy through food.
SOUTHBOUND HAPPY HOUR
72 Cannon Street, Charleston
southboundchs.com | @southboundchs
Happy Hour has officially arrived at Southbound! Join us at the bar Tuesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for half-off all signature cocktails—crafted with care, balanced to perfection and best enjoyed with good company. Also new, is the Southbound Burger made using a rich blend of ground short rib, brisket and chuck, topped with grilled red onion, melted cheddar and a signature burger sauce, all nestled in a toasted brioche bun and available exclusively at the bar during Happy Hour.
SCARBOROUGH & SQUIRREL BAR
21 Hasell Street, Charleston
theansonborough.com | @theansonborough
The Ansonborough Hotel invites the public to experience its Sunset Cocktail Hour, every Friday and Saturday from 4 PM to 8 PM on the Rooftop Garden, which is now open to the public. Guests can take in sweeping views of the Ravenel Bridge and city steeples while sipping on cocktails from the hotel’s Scarborough & Squirrel Bar. To toast the season, The Ansonborough is also debuting a new drink menu featuring handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, including favorites like the Blackbeard’s Bounty (rum, cactus pear, pomegranate, orgeat and lime) and the All In (aged whiskey, Tokaji Late Harvest and toasted almond bitters).
BLOOMTOWN FLOWER MARKET
966 Houston Northcutt Boulevard, Suite 1, Mount Pleasant
bloomtownflowermarket.com | @bloomtownflowermarket
BloomTown Flower Market has recently relocated to 966 Houston Northcutt Boulevard near the foot of the Ravenel Bridge. Providing a large walk-in cooler for all your floral needs, BloomTown is available to both retail and wholesale customers. Shop the cooler, as well as the vast inventory of vases, containers and floral supplies while also utilizing their in-store workstations and knowledgeable staff. Pre-order your florals and supplies for your upcoming weddings, events, baby/bridal showers and dinner parties. Opened April 2025.
CONIGLIO PALM BEACH
49 Archdale Street, Charleston
conigliopalmbeach.com | @conigliopalmbeach
Coniglio Palm Beach’s year-round studio is now open in Charleston’s historic district. The Charleston studio features a curated lounge for monthly artist residencies and exclusive merchandise honoring both Coniglio’s heritage and Charleston’s culture. Founded in Palm Beach in 2023 by Christina Coniglio, Coniglio Palm Beach creates free-size, adjustable, unisex garments designed for diverse body journeys. Each piece features in-house, one-of-a-kind prints and is produced with certified fair-trade vendors, emphasizing sustainability and small-batch collections meant to be shared across generations. Opened March 2025.
CROGHAN’S JEWEL BOX
155 King Street, Charleston
croghansjewelbox.com | @croghans
Croghan’s Jewel Box has moved locations. Come check out the new location just a few blocks down King Street to discover a treasure trove of heirloom silver, estate jewelry and classic gifts. Sisters Mariana Ramsay Hay and Rhett Ramsay Outten are the third-generation owners of this gleaming boutique that has been in business for more than 100 years. Opened June 2025.
HARVEST MARKET
1240 Camp Road, Charleston
Tucked behind roll-up garage doors at the intersection of Camp Road and Dills Bluff on James Island, Harvest Market is a new European-style market offering grab-and-go prepared foods, a coffee and pastry bar, curated wine and beer and small-batch retail food items. Created by Lexie Webb and executive chef Ryan Sullivan, owners of Harvest Catering, the business features an extensive selection of freshly made meals from their nearby commercial kitchen, plus international goods and candies, local honey, cut flowers from Johns Island-based Urb Farm and Austrian cheese. The venue’s industrial style offers a spacious backdrop for a community gathering spot, with wine by the glass often available during Thursday and Friday happy hours and special events. The wine program is locally curated by Angie and Matt Tunstall of Park Circle-based wine bar Stems & Skins. Opened May 2025.
LILLY PULITZER
1239 Belk Drive, Mount Pleasant
lillypulitzer.com l @lillypulitzer
Renowned for its iconic prints, vibrant colors and classic styles, such as The Shift dress, Lilly Pulitzer offers a wide range of product categories, including dresses, sportswear, ladies’ accessories, Luxletic®, activewear, swimwear, children’s clothing, home goods and more. What started as a juice stand in Palm Beach over 65 years ago has evolved into a colorful lifestyle resort wear brand. Opened April 2025.
LOVE SHACK FANCY
634 Freshfields Drive, Johns Island
loveshackfancy.com | @loveshackfancykiawah
LoveShackFancy has refreshed its boutique, unveiling a newly reimagined space where visitors can discover the brand’s signature whimsical, vintage-inspired fashion and accessories. Launched as a pop-up in April 2024, it is now becoming a permanent part of The Village. Opened April 2025.
MARSH WEAR CLOTHING
306 King Street, Charleston
marshwearclothing.com | @marshwearclothing
Marsh Wear Clothing, the lowcountry-based lifestyle and saltwater fishing brand built for the pursuit of good times, is thrilled to announce the opening of its first brick and mortar location on Charleston’s historic King Street in tandem with the celebration of its 15-year anniversary. This apparel is designed for fishing, surfing, hunting and experiencing the local live music scene. This move marks the brand’s commitment to growth and community. Opening Summer 2025.
MUGSY JEANS
342 King Street, Charleston
mugsyjeans.com | @mugsy
Mugsy Jeans, celebrated for its ultra-comfortable, stretch-infused menswear, has opened its first South Carolina location in Charleston. This marks the brand’s eighth store, joining other locations in cities like Boston, Washington, D.C. and Austin. Acclaimed for redefining men’s denim with a focus on comfort and style, Mugsy’s arrival adds a fresh, laid-back vibe to Charleston’s historic shopping district. Opening June 2025.
OLIVER PLUFF & CO.
49 John Street, Charleston
oliverpluff.com | @oliverpluff
Oliver Pluff & Co. is a veteran-owned Charleston company known for its thoughtfully sourced, historically inspired products, including hot and iced teas, toddies, coffees and cacao. While the John Street storefront won’t offer beverage service for consumption on site, shoppers can find best-selling packaged blends like Colonial Bohea, English Breakfast, Early Grey and popular Summer Toddy mixes, alongside Early American coffee. The store will also offer exclusive rotating high-end teas, curated gifts and accessories that are available only in-store. Opened May 2025.
OVME
917 Houston Northcutt Boulevard, Mount Pleasant
ovme.com | @ovmeofficial
Founded by medical aesthetics pioneer Dr. Mark McKenna, OVME was created to transform the cold, clinical med spa experience into a personalized, empowering one. Launched in Atlanta in 2018, the boutique-style studio quickly gained a devoted following for its client-first approach to cosmetic care. Today, OVME has grown to 29 studios nationwide, offering holistic, results-driven treatments and fully customized plans designed to evolve with each client’s needs. Opened June 2025.
PICKLERAGE
5101 Ashley Phosphate Road, North Charleston
picklerage.com | @pickle_rage
PickleRage, one of the fastest-growing indoor pickleball clubs in the country, is coming to North Charleston, marking its first South Carolina location. With 13 indoor, climate-controlled CushionX courts, this state-of-the-art facility will offer open play, clinics, leagues, private lessons and events year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just discovering pickleball, PickleRage makes it easy and fun to get in the game. Opening Summer 2025.
SÉZANE
222 King Street, Charleston
sezane.com | @sezane
Born in Paris in 2013, Sézane was created from a desire to offer all women high-quality, perfectly cut pieces at fair prices, or “Je ne sais quoi” for all. To achieve these ideals, Sézane created an alternative route, where the absence of intermediaries has allowed the brand to invest in quality, avoid overproduction and ensure affordable prices all year round. Every season, Sézane imagines a new collection inspired by Paris and the women who call it home. An ode to beautiful design, Sézane’s pieces are then crafted in the world’s finest ateliers from carefully sourced and sustainable materials. Opened May 2025.
SOUTHERN FUSS
139 Market Street, Charleston
southernfuss.com | @southernfuss
Southern Fuss is a Charleston-based boutique on a mission to empower women to feel confident, classy and stylish daily. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Cassie and Paul Pratt, the brand blends high-end flair with budget-friendly edge, offering a curated mix of everyday essentials and standout pieces you won’t find anywhere else. With a vibrant online community, daily live sales through their free app and a welcoming vibe, Southern Fuss is beyond a boutique—it’s a celebration of personal style and positive energy. Opened March 2025.
SUGAR & LOLA
835 Coleman Boulevard, Suite 101, Mount Pleasant
sugarandlola.com | @sugarandlola
Sugar & Lola is more than a jewelry store—it’s an experience. Discover a curated mix of fine and fashion jewelry that’s sophisticated, modern and anything but ordinary. With the most comprehensive selection of chains and charms, Sugar & Lola also offers permanent jewelry making. Their elevated, design-forward space features calming neutrals, cozy seating, bespoke jewelry cabinets and signature fish wallpaper. The space invites guests to linger, style and shop. Opened April 2025.
THE ARCHIVE
700 South Shelmore Boulevard, Unit 103, Mount Pleasant
thearchivechs.com | @thearchivechs
Tucked into Mount Pleasant’s vibrant Shelmore District, The Archive is a new destination for lovers of books, conversation and beautiful spaces. Equal parts bookstore, full-service coffee shop and wine bar, The Archive offers a curated selection of literary fiction, fantasy and banned books alongside handcrafted lattes, local wines and signature spritzes. The vibes are immaculate—the decor feels like stepping into a castle library, with rich colors, moody lighting and shelves that invite you to stay awhile. Whether you’re browsing the shelves, attending a book club or sipping a glass of wine under towering bookshelves, The Archive is Charleston’s newest haven for readers, romantics and creative souls alike. Opened April 2025.
THE CLUBHOUSE
476 Meeting Street, Suite E, Charleston
theclubhousechs.com | @theclubhouse_charleston
The Clubhouse brings Charleston energy to a whole new level, combining a lively bar, craft cocktails, live music and DJs, light bites with state-of-the-art virtual golf—all under one roof. Whether you’re looking to hang out, catch some music or sneak in a round without hitting the course, The Clubhouse is your go-to spot to unwind, vibe and have a little fun. Opened May 2025.
ACCOMMODATIONS
EMBASSY SUITES
5055 International Boulevard, North Charleston
hilton.com | @embassysuites
The Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Airport Hotel & Convention Center has unveiled a stunning multi-million-dollar renovation, redefining comfort and style for travelers and event planners alike. Guests can enjoy updated two-room suites with modern furnishings, enhanced dining at the Palm Tree Bar and Grill featuring Southern-inspired cuisine and refreshed event spaces equipped with the latest technology. The transformed atrium and social areas offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that blends Lowcountry charm with contemporary design. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or your next event, experience the all-new Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Airport—where Southern hospitality meets modern sophistication. Opened April 2025.
THE CHARLEE
89 Cannon Street, Charleston
thecharleeoncannon.com | @charleecharleston
The Charlee, a new set of luxury short-term rental residences, is now open for bookings. Located on Cannon Street in the Cannonborough neighborhood, the concept blends the amenities of a traditional hotel with the flexibility and comfort of a short-term rental. The property includes eight four-bedroom residences, each accommodating up to 10 guests. The spaces were designed by Charleston-based interior designer Jenny Keenan and architect Stephen Ramos. No two residences are exactly alike—each one has its own layout, artwork and design touches. Guests can expect features like custom millwork, private rooftop or porch access and hotel-style concierge services such as excursion bookings, grocery delivery and access to bicycles. Opened May 2025.
THE ELEMENT
5054 Erin Court, North Charleston
marriott.com | @marriottbonvoy
The Element by Marriott Charleston Airport in North Charleston has opened this summer. This 123-room, upscale extended-stay hotel features a restaurant, 24/7 fitness center, an outdoor pool and meeting space. The hotel is located near Charleston International Airport and a short drive from historic downtown Charleston. Opened May 2025.
THE NICKEL HOTEL
529 King Street, Charleston
nickelhotel.com | @thenickelhotel
Located on bustling Upper King Street, The Nickel Hotel features 50 suites, a lush interior courtyard, a library, a guest-only lounge and Rosemary Rose, a rooftop bar and lounge open to the public. While the modern, arched façade creates a dramatic entrance, the interiors feel intimate, honoring the city’s passion for historic preservation from the filigree ironwork on the balconies to the handmade tilework and the courtyard fountains. The Nickel Hotel is a verdant oasis in the Holy City for both visitors and locals alike. Opened May 2025.
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS
EDGAR ALLAN POE LIBRARY
1921 Ion Avenue, Sullivan’s Island
ccpl.org | @chascolibrary
The library is named for author Edgar Allan Poe, who was stationed on Sullivan’s Island as a private in the United States Army in 1827 and 1828 and who used the island setting as the background for his famous story, “The Gold Bug.” After nearly eight months of renovations, the Edgar Allan Poe Library on Sullivan’s Island has officially reopened. Upgrades include new bathrooms, fresh paint, updated furniture and enhanced IT systems.
INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM
14 Wharfside Street, Charleston
iaamuseum.org | @iaammuseum
The International African American Museum (IAAM) will debut its new special exhibition, “re/Defined: Creative Expressions of Blackness from the Diaspora.” Co-curated by IAAM’s staff members Suzanne DiBella and Isabelle Britto, the exhibition explores how Black creatives across the Atlantic World have shaped, challenged and celebrated Black identity through art, music, adornment and storytelling. Drawing on shared African ancestry, these artists redefine Blackness while preserving traditions and resisting systemic oppression. From West Africa to the Americas, “re/Defined” highlights the power of creative expression in confronting colonial legacies and promoting cultural pride. June 12, 2025 – January 4, 2026.
NATURE POP!® MAGNOLIA PLANTATION AND GARDENS
3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston
magnoliaplantation.com | @magnoliaplantation
For generations, visitors have come to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Lowcountry. This summer, experience nature in an entirely new way with Nature POP!®, an awe-inspiring exhibition by acclaimed artist Sean Kenney. This highly anticipated outdoor exhibit features more than 40 larger-than-life sculptures, made entirely of LEGO® bricks. These vibrant creations celebrate the beauty of nature through a striking pop-art lens, blending bold colors, imaginative designs and intricate craftsmanship to transform Magnolia’s gardens into an immersive outdoor gallery. During the month of June, experience the enchanting atmosphere of golden hour with extended hours until 8 pm and enjoy the gardens as you revel in nature’s beauty. May 23 – August 15, 2025.
SOUTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM VIRTUAL REALITY
100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston
scaquarium.org | @southcarolinaaquarium
Immersive 360-degree views of spectacular sharks and wondrous whales are now a reality at the Aquarium. Undersea Explorer, the new virtual reality experience, is now open for riders. Choose your ocean adventure and step aboard to enjoy the thrill of the ocean as live-action films are synced with motion-platform seating. April 2025.
THE CHARLESTON MUSEUM ARCHAEOLOGICAL DIG
360 Meeting Street, Charleston
charlestonmuseum.org | @charlestonmuseum
The Charleston Museum, in partnership with the College of Charleston, will conduct an archaeological dig at the historic Heyward-Washington House, focusing on the rear garden following last year’s cellar excavation. Led by curator John Fisher and professor Sarah Platt, the project offers students hands-on experience while inviting the public to explore Charleston’s colonial roots. Researchers aim to uncover remnants from the 1680s to 1730s tied to gunsmith John Milner Sr., who once owned the property. The dig is open to the public Fridays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. No reservations are required, though work is weather-dependent. March 14 – April 19, 2025.
TOKI BITES & BREWS
4475 Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Kiawah Island
kiawahisland.org | @townofkiawah
The Town of Kiawah Island is hosting its very first summer food truck festival series at Town Hall called TOKI Bites & Brews. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on one Friday of each month from April to August, the Town Hall’s green space will be transformed into a lively community gathering spot, showcasing a variety of fantastic vendors and offering a fun and food-focused experience. April – August 2025.
INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
14 Wharfside Street, Charleston
iaamuseum.org | @iaammuseum
The International African American Museum (IAAM) will host its annual Juneteenth celebration, J.O.Y. (Juneteenth on the Yard), on Thursday, June 19, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the African Ancestors Memorial Garden. This free, multigenerational event celebrates Black freedom and culture through music, dance, storytelling and community. Guests can enjoy performances and activities across themed zones like the Ubuntu Village and Adorned (Black Beauty Bazaar). Complimentary museum admission is available all day with advance registration for timed-entry tickets on the IAAM website. June 19, 2025.
PATRIOTS POINT 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS BLAST
40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant
patriotspoint.org | @patriots_point
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum will continue the tradition of being the Lowcountry’s destination for patriotism this Fourth of July. The home of the historic aircraft carrier USS Yorktown will kick off a free 4th of July Fireworks Blast celebration on shore at 6 p.m. The event includes live music, food trucks and a fireworks show over the Charleston Harbor. July 4, 2025.
SWEETGRASS FESTIVAL
99 Harry M Hallman Junior Boulevard, Mount Pleasant
experincemountpleasant.com | @experiencemp
The annual Sweetgrass Festival in Mount Pleasant, founded in 2004, is designed to promote and bring attention to the contributions of the Gullah Geechee people’s history, culture, traditions and their sweetgrass basket art form that originated in Mount Pleasant and continues to exist in our town and surrounding communities today. Additionally, the Sweetgrass Festival provides an opportunity for engagement, interaction and exposure to the Gullah Geechee people’s culture. Informative and interesting educational sessions will enlighten and entertain participants of all ages. July 26, 2025.
THE ANSON AFRICAN BURIAL MEMORIAL
This July, Charleston welcomes a significant new memorial, which takes the form of a fountain that holds deep meaning. On the southwest corner of the iconic Charleston Gaillard Center in downtown Charleston, a stretch of beautifully landscaped, tranquil green space will be the site of the Anson Street African Burial Memorial.
Created by North Carolina artist Stephen Hayes, the memorial will feature three dozen pairs of hands cast in bronze, with water spraying from them into a bowl-shaped depression that they encircle. The bronze hands were created from casts of the hands of present-day individuals, many of whom are connected in some way to the project, including through DNA matches with these ancestors.
The Anson Street African Burial Memorial honors 36 individuals from the 1700s, most of whom were likely enslaved. They were discovered in 2013 during construction of the Gaillard and are now interred in the burial ground at nearby Anson Street.
The result of years of research and community outreach, the Anson Street African Burial Memorial seeks to provide a space of remembrance and education while also shedding light on this significant chapter of Charleston’s history. At the same time, its prominent placement ensures their stories of these individuals, whose names have been lost to time, are never forgotten.