Charleston City Market
188 Meeting St., Charleston, SC, 29401
Smack in the middle of historic Charleston, the Charleston City Market is a must-see landmark for Holy City visitors. In addition to being one of the most popular historic attractions in town, the City Market—which opened in the 1790s—is also one of the oldest continuously operating public markets in the United States. Today, shoppers can browse stands featuring the work of local chefs, artists, and craftspeople, including handmade sweetgrass baskets, a unique Gullah handicraft.
The Basics
History, shopping, and South Carolina culture lure visitors to the Charleston City Market in droves. Visit on a Charleston walking tour to learn about the market’s long history as a commerce hub from a tour guide, or browse the market’s indoor Great Hall and centuries-old outdoor sheds on your own. Stroll past low country goods like stone-ground grits, sweetgrass baskets, and benne wafers, plus home goods, crafts, and clothing from more than 300 vendors, many of whom make their wares by hand.
Things to Know Before You Go
The market is a must for foodies and first-time visitors to Charleston.
There are two cafés inside the market and many more in the surrounding streets.
Dress for the weather to fully enjoy the indoor and outdoor market areas.
The market is accessible to wheelchair users and strollers.
How to Get There
The Charleston City Market is located at the intersection of Market and Meeting streets in Charleston’s historic district. Though there are street parking spots and parking garages nearby, it’s best to walk or take public transit, as traffic can be thick and parking can be limited. The free DASH shuttle and the city’s many pedicabs are both good options.
When to Get There
The market is open every day from 9:30am to 6pm except on Christmas Day. A special night market runs from 6:30pm to 10:30pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and some Thursdays from April through December.
Nearby Attractions in Historic Charleston
Charleston’s historic downtown is rich with attractions beyond the City Market. Highlights include Rainbow Row, the Battery, and Waterfront Park. A number of guided tours, such as a carriage tour or a private tour, show you the sights while letting you in on Charleston’s history.
Ways to explore
History, shopping, and South Carolina culture lure visitors to the Charleston City Market in droves. Visit on a Charleston walking tour to learn about the market’s long history as a commerce hub from a tour guide, or browse the market’s indoor Great Hall and centuries-old outdoor sheds on your own before or after a city sightseeing tour. Stroll past low country goods like stone-ground grits, sweetgrass baskets, and benne wafers, plus home goods, crafts, and clothing from more than 300 vendors, many of whom make their wares by hand.
Accessibility
The market is accessible via entrance ramps, but crowds at peak times make navigating in a wheelchair a challenge.
Age limits
Stands dedicated to handcrafted toys and sweet treats will keep young shoppers satisfied.
What to pack
Cash or credit card, camera and battery pack
What to wear
Comfortable shoes, layers
Not allowed
Dogs are not permitted inside the market’s enclosed buildings and food courts.
Amenities
Restrooms, air conditioning in the main hall, dining spaces
Address
The Charleston City Market is located at the intersection of Market and Meeting streets in Charleston’s historic district. Though there is parking nearby, it’s best to walk or take public transit, as traffic can be heavy and parking limited.
Driving
Take Market Street if arriving from the west or Meeting Street or East Bay Street if arriving from the north or south. Park at the Church Street Garage, Hassel Street Garage, or Cumberland Street Garage, or at the parking lot at the corner of Church and North Market streets. There is also metered street parking.
Public transportation
The free hop-on hop-off DASH Trolley runs from the Charleston Area Visitors Center on Meeting Street and makes several stops within walking distance of the Charleston City Market.
Best times to visit
The market can get overrun with visitors at midday, so visit it when it opens in the morning or over the extended evening hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
Best days to visit
Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds; the market is open daily except for Christmas Day.
Best months to visit
Summer crowds make visiting the market challenging, while spring and fall are quieter (and cooler).
Special events
The market has a robust calendar of special events and festivals year-round. Check the official website for an updated schedule.
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