Charleston Has a Historic Market Where You Can Sip Sweet Tea and Shop Gullah Treasures

Step beneath the shade of a red-roofed arcade and into the heart of Charleston’s soul. At the Charleston City Market, you’re not just shopping—you’re stepping into a story more than two centuries in the making. Lined with vibrant booths and brimming with local charm, this historic market buzzes with energy and whispers with the ghosts of the past.

Whether you’re hunting for handmade treasures, watching sweetgrass baskets come to life, or just soaking in the scents of pralines and barbecue wafting through the air, there’s something captivating at every turn. This isn’t your average farmer’s market—it’s a Charleston icon and a cultural touchstone, open daily and bustling with Lowcountry magic.

A vibrant market with a mural, featuring people walking by and stalls displaying fruits and crafts.
Facebook/Charleston City Market

What We Love

Sweetgrass Basket Weavers at Work
Watch as artisans from the Gullah community skillfully coil dried sweetgrass into stunning, museum-worthy baskets. These are living pieces of history—passed down through generations—and you’ll likely catch the rhythmic flick of hands shaping tradition right before your eyes.

A collection of woven baskets displayed on a table, each with informational flyers inside.
TripAdvisor/Jaina H

Southern Foodie Finds
From smoky jerky to local jams to just-out-of-the-oven benne wafers, this market knows how to tempt your taste buds. Don’t skip the hot sauces—they’re bold, flavorful, and a great conversation starter back home.

A bustling market entrance with a mural above, featuring a man and various baskets displayed outside.
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One-of-a-Kind Charleston Souvenirs
Forget kitschy fridge magnets—this is where you’ll score hand-painted oyster shells, custom jewelry, original art prints, and even vintage-style Charleston maps. Everything feels crafted with love and pride.

A display of handmade dolls in various outfits, including a fox doll, arranged on a table with a chalkboard sign.
Facebook/Charleston City Market

Open-Air Meets Indoor Wanderlust
The market stretches across multiple buildings, from the shaded open-air stalls of the Great Hall to the breezy indoor vendor spaces along Market Street. Each section has its own rhythm, making your stroll feel like a choose-your-own-adventure.

A bustling indoor market with vendors selling various items, featuring shoppers browsing colorful displays.
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Friendly Faces & Local Stories
Many vendors are locals who love to chat—ask them about their craft, their Charleston favorites, or how long they’ve been setting up shop here. You’ll walk away with more than just a purchase—you’ll have a piece of someone’s passion.

A display of colorful paintings and crafts at a market, featuring various artworks and a small decorated Christmas tree.
TripAdvisor/ArthiRaga

Atmosphere & Setting

Charleston City Market radiates a warm, inviting buzz. The architecture is a blend of antebellum elegance and market-town charm, with wrought iron lanterns, wide brick walkways, and sky-lit ceilings. Live acoustic music often drifts through the air, blending with the hum of conversation and the occasional clip-clop of a passing horse-drawn carriage outside.

It’s lively but not overwhelming—easy to wander at your own pace while still feeling the heartbeat of the city. It’s also a photographer’s dream, with golden light spilling through high arches and colorful stalls adding a splash of life to every frame.

Historic building with a grand entrance, featuring columns and green railings, set against a cloudy sky. Traffic lights in view.
Facebook/Charleston City Market

Value (Is It Worth It?)

Absolutely—this is a free-entry experience that offers hours of exploration without costing you a dime unless you want to shop (which, fair warning, you probably will). You can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a full afternoon browsing and chatting with artisans. There are walking tours that pass through the market, and some vendors offer demos or mini-history lessons for curious visitors.

It’s perfect for families, couples, solo travelers, or anyone craving a slice of authentic Charleston life. Even if you’re just window shopping, the vibe alone is worth the stop.

A display of cookbooks, including "Shrimp and Grits" and "101 Things to Do with Grits," alongside bags of grits.
Facebook/Charleston City Market

Other Considerations

Parking: There are several garages and metered spots nearby, but they can fill up fast—especially on weekends. Arrive early or take a rideshare if you’re staying close.

Weather: It’s mostly shaded, but Charleston heat can be sticky in summer. Bring water and wear breezy clothes.

Accessibility: The market is flat and walkable, with plenty of space for strollers and wheelchairs. Just be mindful of the occasional uneven brick path.

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours offer a quieter vibe, while weekends bring in the full buzz. Spring and fall are especially lovely for strolling.

Snacks & Sips: Plenty of vendors sell drinks, treats, and snacks, but if you’re looking for a full meal, hit up one of the nearby restaurants right outside the market’s doors.

A display of handmade soaps in various colors on a wooden stand, with a sign reading "Made in Charleston."
Facebook/Charleston City Market

Whether you’re chasing history, treasure-hunting for handcrafted keepsakes, or just soaking in that warm Charleston hospitality, this is one of those spots that leaves a mark. You’ll leave with something in your hand—and a whole lot in your heart.

Charleston City Market
📍 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

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