Cannonborough–Elliotborough
A vibrant downtown Charleston neighborhood known for its eclectic dining, unique boutiques, and charming, walkable streets.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dine at popular restaurants
Cannonborough–Elliotborough
Best Time
Dine at popular restaurants

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant downtown Charleston neighborhood known for its eclectic dining, unique boutiques, and charming, walkable streets.
"This neighborhood is a foodie's paradise with incredible spots and a hot spot for short-term rentals."
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
This neighborhood is best explored on foot. Wear comfy shoes to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local vibe.
🍽️ Book Dinner in Advance
Popular restaurants fill up fast! Make reservations, especially for weekend dining, to secure your spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Culinary Exploration
Throughout the neighborhood
Indulge in a diverse culinary scene, from Spanish tapas at Malagón to Oaxacan flavors at Pink Cactus and fresh seafood at Chubby Fish.

Boutique Shopping
King Street and side streets
Wander through unique boutiques like Harvest Moon and Old Whaling Co., offering curated finds and local crafts.

Philosopher and Fools Bookstore
Downtown Charleston
A charming bookstore and beverage haven, perfect for bookworms and coffee enthusiasts seeking literary treasures.
Tiger Lily Florist
131 Spring Street
Experience a women-owned business with a unique bloom bar to create your own bouquets or crowns.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walkability
Foodie Paradise Awaits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
This neighborhood is best explored on foot. Wear comfy shoes to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local vibe.
🍽️ Book Dinner in Advance
Popular restaurants fill up fast! Make reservations, especially for weekend dining, to secure your spot.
📸 Capture the Charm
The colorful streets and unique architecture are perfect for photos. Don't forget your camera!
☕ Coffee & Book Nooks
Discover cozy spots like Philosopher and Fools for a relaxing coffee and browse unique reads.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
This neighborhood is best explored on foot. Wear comfy shoes to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local vibe.
🍽️ Book Dinner in Advance
Popular restaurants fill up fast! Make reservations, especially for weekend dining, to secure your spot.
📸 Capture the Charm
The colorful streets and unique architecture are perfect for photos. Don't forget your camera!
☕ Coffee & Book Nooks
Discover cozy spots like Philosopher and Fools for a relaxing coffee and browse unique reads.
💐 Bloom Bar Fun
Visit Tiger Lily Florist to create your own bouquet or flower crown at their unique bloom bar.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cannonborough-Elliotborough's vibrant culinary scene and charming, walkable streets. It's praised as a foodie paradise with diverse dining options and unique boutiques. Some find it can get crowded, especially on weekends, and recommend making reservations for popular restaurants.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cannonborough-Elliotborough is located in downtown Charleston, SC. It's easily accessible by car, ride-sharing services, or even by walking from other downtown areas. Many visitors find it convenient to park and then explore the neighborhood on foot.
Absolutely! This neighborhood is renowned for its walkability, making it a pleasure to explore its streets, shops, and restaurants on foot.
The best way to explore Cannonborough-Elliotborough is by walking. This allows you to stumble upon charming boutiques, unique eateries, and picturesque architecture at your own pace.
While walking is highly recommended, Charleston also has a DASH (Downtown Area Shuttle) trolley system that may have routes that pass through or near the neighborhood, offering an alternative for longer distances.
Generally, Cannonborough-Elliotborough is considered safe for walking at night, especially on well-lit main streets. As with any urban area, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-trafficked areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cannonborough-Elliotborough is a public neighborhood, so no tickets are required to wander its streets and enjoy its atmosphere. Individual businesses within the neighborhood will have their own entry requirements or purchase needs.
Shop and restaurant hours vary. Many boutiques are open from late morning to early evening, while restaurants often serve lunch and dinner. It's best to check the specific hours for any establishment you plan to visit.
As a residential and commercial neighborhood, there are no general entry fees for Cannonborough-Elliotborough itself. Any parks or public squares within the area are typically free to access.
While there might not be specific 'Cannonborough-Elliotborough' tours, many general Charleston walking tours will likely include this vibrant area, highlighting its history and culinary scene.
To avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting on weekday mornings or early afternoons. Weekends, especially Saturday mornings due to the farmers market, tend to be busier.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
This neighborhood is a foodie haven! Don't miss Malagón for Spanish tapas, Pink Cactus for Oaxacan dishes and margaritas, Chubby Fish for seafood, Xiao Bao Biscuit for Asian-inspired fare, and Ban Banh Mi for delicious sandwiches.
Yes, Cannonborough-Elliotborough has excellent coffee options. Baba's on Cannon is a popular spot for coffee and quick bites, and Philosopher and Fools offers a delightful combination of books and beverages.
The neighborhood offers a diverse culinary landscape, with Spanish, Oaxacan, Asian-inspired, and Southern cuisine being particularly well-represented. It's known as downtown Charleston's unofficial bistro district.
Many restaurants in the area are becoming increasingly accommodating to dietary needs. It's always a good idea to check menus online or call ahead to inquire about vegetarian and vegan options.
For a casual bite, consider Ban Banh Mi for flavorful sandwiches or Elliotborough Mini Bar for a relaxed atmosphere. Baba's on Cannon also offers quick bites perfect for a casual stop.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful architecture, charming streetscapes, and unique storefronts make this neighborhood incredibly photogenic. Look out for vibrant buildings, intricate details, and the lively atmosphere of its eateries.
Wandering down King Street offers many opportunities to capture the essence of Charleston's charm. The unique offerings at places like Tiger Lily Florist or the vibrant decor at Pink Cactus also make for great shots.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant colors of the buildings can still pop.
Generally, it's polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private businesses. Quick snaps of your food or a general ambiance shot are usually fine, but be mindful of other patrons and staff.
While not a single landmark, the overall streetscape of Cannonborough-Elliotborough, with its historic homes and lively commercial areas, is the main photographic draw. Keep an eye out for unique architectural details and colorful facades.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the focus is often on dining, many restaurants can accommodate families. Look for spots with more casual menus or those known for being welcoming to children. The Saturday Farmers Market can also be a fun outing for the whole family, offering a taste of local life and perhaps some kid-friendly treats.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Keep an eye out for happy hour specials at bars and restaurants, which can offer a more economical way to sample local drinks and appetizers. Visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays might also present opportunities for better deals.
couples
Consider a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand, discovering hidden architectural gems and perhaps picking up a unique souvenir from a local shop. The atmosphere is both sophisticated and relaxed, making it ideal for quality time together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Culinary Journey Through Cannonborough-Elliotborough
Beyond these highlights, the area is a hotspot for other acclaimed eateries. Chubby Fish is a must for seafood lovers, while Xiao Bao Biscuit offers a unique take on Asian-inspired cuisine. For a quick and delicious bite, Ban Banh Mi serves up fantastic sandwiches. The neighborhood's reputation as an 'unofficial bistro district' is well-earned, with new and exciting culinary ventures continually emerging.
When planning your visit, remember that popular spots can get busy, especially during peak hours and weekends. Making reservations is highly recommended to ensure you can experience the best of what Cannonborough-Elliotborough's food scene has to offer. Don't forget to explore the charming coffee shops like Baba's on Cannon and Philosopher and Fools for a perfect start or break during your culinary adventures.
Exploring the Unique Charm of the Neighborhood
For those who enjoy a bit of retail therapy, King Street and its surrounding side streets offer a delightful shopping experience. You can discover curated collections at boutiques like Harvest Moon and Old Whaling Co., perfect for finding unique souvenirs or gifts. The neighborhood also boasts specialized shops, such as Tiger Lily Florist, a women-owned business where you can even create your own floral arrangements at their bloom bar.
This area is also a fantastic place to simply wander and soak in the local vibe. Its walkability makes it easy to stumble upon hidden courtyards, public art, and the everyday life of Charleston residents. Whether you're looking for a great meal, a unique shopping find, or just a pleasant stroll, Cannonborough-Elliotborough offers a rich and rewarding experience.
Cultural and Historical Insights
Supporting Black-owned businesses within the neighborhood is a way to directly engage with and contribute to this cultural legacy. These establishments not only offer unique products and services but also serve as vital community hubs. By patronizing them, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring contributions of the Black community to Charleston's identity.
For a more immersive experience, consider seeking out local guides or historical markers that shed light on the area's past. Understanding the historical context enriches the visit, transforming a simple exploration into a more meaningful journey of discovery and appreciation for the diverse narratives that shape Charleston.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit