As you stroll through Charleston’s cobblestone streets, you will discover an abundance of charming boutiques and unique shops. From antique gems to curated clothing collections, shopping in Charleston is a leisurely and refined experience. Here are some of the best places to find that perfect piece during your visit.
King Street
In the heart of downtown Charleston, King Street serves as the city’s primary shopping corridor. It’s divided into three main shopping districts to explore: Upper King, Middle King, and Lower King. On the second Sunday of each month, King Street is closed off from Calhoun Street to Queen Street between 1PM and 5PM for Second Sunday, when pedestrians can enjoy live music, open-air dining, and a lively shopping experience.
Upper King
Stretching from Calhoun Street to Spring Street, Upper King is Charleston’s interior design district. Here you will find some of the most unique furnishing and interior decor stores in the country. The area is also gaining recognition as one of the city’s top culinary destinations, making it the perfect place to shop for home pieces and enjoy a delicious lunch afterward. Upper King 400 Block Shops | Upper King 500 - 700 Block Shops
Middle King
Known as Charleston’s Fashion District, Middle King runs between Market Street and Calhoun Street. With a great balance of beloved national brands and stylish local boutiques, there is a great variety of clothing, shoes, and accessories to browse. Forbes Traveler has even named Middle King as one of the country’s "Top 10 Shopping Districts in the USA." Middle King 200 Block Shops | Middle King 300 Block Shops
Lower King
Between Broad Street and Market Street, you will find Lower King. This antique district is a treasure trove of unique fashion and home finds. The readers of Travel + Leisure magazine voted this area "Best Antique Shopping in the U.S." You’ll uncover incredible pieces from various regions and eras.
Old City Market
One of Charleston’s most visited attractions, the Old City Market is just steps away from the doors of Planter’s Inn. Visitors can discover gems like souvenirs, crafts, woven baskets, jewelry, clothing, and art — many handmade by local artisans. It’s a wonderful spot to spend an afternoon strolling and shopping while soaking in Charleston’s vibrant energy.
Shops at Charleston Place
For those in search of luxury shopping, the Shops at Charleston Place are a must. Located just across Meeting Street from Planters Inn, between the East and West wings of Charleston Place Hotel, the center features stores including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tommy Bahama.
Tanger Charleston
Just a 20 minute drive from downtown Charleston, the Tanger Outlet Center in North Charleston offers an open-air shopping experience with more than 85 stores. It’s a great place to shop if you’d like to explore beyond the city center.
