Charleston City Market
A historic 4-block marketplace in Charleston, SC, showcasing local art, crafts, and the iconic sweetgrass baskets.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Charleston City Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 4-block marketplace in Charleston, SC, showcasing local art, crafts, and the iconic sweetgrass baskets.
"A very Charleston-esque spot to visit, with something for everyone and hard not to find something you'd like to purchase."
🎯 Embrace the Evening Market
Catch the 'swap-over' for a new set of vendors and a different vibe on Friday & Saturday nights!
💰 Haggle Respectfully
While prices can be high, polite negotiation might be possible for some items.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sweetgrass Baskets
Various vendors
Iconic Gullah cultural craft, intricately woven by skilled artisans. A true Charleston treasure.

Local Art and Crafts
Market stalls
Discover unique paintings, jewelry, pottery, and more from talented local artists and makers.

Gullah Cultural Experiences
Various vendors
Explore the rich heritage of the Gullah people through their crafts, stories, and traditions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Vendor Variety and Pricing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Evening Market
Catch the 'swap-over' for a new set of vendors and a different vibe on Friday & Saturday nights!
💰 Haggle Respectfully
While prices can be high, polite negotiation might be possible for some items.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Charleston gets hot! Carry water, especially during summer months.
🛍️ Look for Unique Finds
Beyond souvenirs, discover handmade jewelry, art, and local delicacies.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Evening Market
Catch the 'swap-over' for a new set of vendors and a different vibe on Friday & Saturday nights!
💰 Haggle Respectfully
While prices can be high, polite negotiation might be possible for some items.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Charleston gets hot! Carry water, especially during summer months.
🛍️ Look for Unique Finds
Beyond souvenirs, discover handmade jewelry, art, and local delicacies.
🚶♀️ Explore All Four Blocks
The market spans several blocks; don't stop at the first section!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Charleston City Market a fun and essential stop, praising its wide variety of local crafts, art, and the iconic sweetgrass baskets. While prices can be high and crowds significant, especially in summer, the historic atmosphere and the unique evening market experience are highly valued. The surrounding restaurants also add to its appeal.
"The Charleston City Market is always a fun stop when visiting the city. There’s a little bit of everything here, so it’s easy to find souvenirs or unique gifts. Prices can be on the higher side, but that’s pretty standard for a tourist spot. On one of my first visits, a kid handed me a palm rose, and before I knew it, a man was chasing me down asking for $5—it gave off a bit of a New York street hustle vibe. The market is usually crowded and can get very hot in the summer, but there’s a small indoor section with food options, air conditioning, and surprisingly clean bathrooms, which was a welcome break."
Katherine Hilton
"I recently visited the Charleston City Market during my trip to Charleston and really enjoyed the experience. The market is surprisingly long and filled with a wide variety of vendors. There’s just about anything you can think of for sale like local crafts, handmade goods, art, souvenirs, and more. It’s a great place to walk through, browse, and find something unique to take home."
James Wood
"A very Charleston-esque spot to visit. It's a decent walk through the stalls; a feeling of old American abounds as you walk from building to building. Classic architecture, convenient to walk to, and quite a few carriage ride options nearby. Easy access to the cruise ship docks so be prepared for heavy tourist traffic while the ships are at port. There's something for everyone here and it's hard not to find something you'd like to purchase."
Brad Kosar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Charleston City Market is centrally located downtown at 188 Meeting Street. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Many visitors also walk from nearby hotels or take advantage of ride-sharing services. Carriage tours often start or pass by the market, offering a scenic approach.
Yes, there are several parking garages within walking distance of the market, including the Charleston County Parking Garage at 197 Meeting Street and the Cumberland Street Garage. Street parking can be limited and metered.
Charleston's public bus system, CARTA, has routes that stop near the City Market. Check their schedule for the most convenient stops.
The market is generally accessible, with paved walkways. Some stalls may have slight inclines, but most areas are navigable for wheelchairs and strollers.
The Charleston City Market is conveniently located near the cruise ship docks, making it an easy stop for passengers. Be prepared for increased crowds when ships are in port.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Charleston City Market is free. You only pay for any items you choose to purchase from the vendors.
The market generally operates daily, with hours typically from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. However, there's an evening swap-over on Fridays and Saturdays where vendors change, and some stay open later, often until 10:30 PM.
Yes, the Charleston City Night Market typically runs on Friday and Saturday evenings, with vendors often staying open until 10:30 PM. This offers a different shopping experience than the daytime market.
The Charleston City Market is usually open on most holidays, though hours might be adjusted. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for specific holiday operating times.
There is no admission fee to enter the Charleston City Market. It's a public space where you can browse the stalls and enjoy the atmosphere for free.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors
You can find a wide variety of goods, including handmade crafts, local art, jewelry, souvenirs, sweetgrass baskets, clothing, and local food items.
Yes, many vendors are local artisans and small business owners showcasing their unique creations and products.
Absolutely! Sweetgrass baskets are a signature item of the Charleston City Market, representing a significant part of Gullah culture.
While some vendors may be open to negotiation, it's not guaranteed. It's best to inquire politely. Prices can be higher as it's a popular tourist destination.
It's common for some vendors to offer similar products. Exploring different stalls might reveal variations in quality, craftsmanship, or price.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a small indoor section with food options, and numerous restaurants line both sides of the market, offering a variety of cuisines.
Many restaurants surround the market, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining. Some TikToks highlight specific spots like Well Hung Vineyard for wine and charcuterie.
While Callie's Hot Little Biscuit has locations in Charleston, it's not consistently listed as a vendor inside the main market stalls. You might find them nearby.
Yes, several establishments near the market offer drinks, including wine bars and restaurants.
The indoor food court options are generally more affordable than sit-down restaurants, but prices can still be tourist-oriented.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant stalls, unique crafts, and the historic architecture. The sweetgrass basket weavers are particularly photogenic subjects.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their specific merchandise.
The market can get very crowded, especially during peak hours and tourist seasons, which can make getting unobstructed photos challenging. Early mornings or late evenings are best.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer people. The evening market can also provide interesting lighting opportunities.
The market itself, with its historic buildings and bustling atmosphere, is the main attraction. The surrounding historic Charleston architecture also provides great backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, consider going earlier in the day to avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat. The indoor sections provide a cool place to rest and grab a snack. Keep an eye out for vendors selling fun, kid-friendly items, and be prepared for the bustling atmosphere.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the evening market on Fridays and Saturdays, as some vendors might offer different price points or deals. Also, take advantage of the surrounding restaurants for more budget-friendly meal options compared to some of the market's indoor food vendors.
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
Don't miss the evening market for a different selection of vendors and a vibrant atmosphere. Take your time exploring all four blocks to compare offerings and find exactly what you're looking for. Remember that prices can vary, so comparing between vendors is a good strategy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Evolution of Charleston City Market
Today, the market is renowned for its Gullah cultural heritage, particularly the iconic sweetgrass baskets woven by descendants of West African slaves. These intricate baskets are a testament to a rich tradition passed down through generations. Beyond baskets, the market showcases a diverse array of local art, crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs, offering visitors a chance to take home a piece of Charleston's unique charm.
The market's structure itself is a blend of historic architecture and modern updates, with some sections offering air-conditioned comfort while others remain open-air. This mix provides a unique shopping experience, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The market's central location makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring historic Charleston, South Carolina, and it plays a vital role in supporting local small businesses and preserving cultural traditions.
Navigating the Charleston City Market: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Be prepared for a wide range of vendors, some of whom may sell similar items. While this offers variety, it's also worth noting that prices can be on the higher side, typical for a popular tourist destination. Some visitors have noted a 'New York street hustle' vibe with certain vendors, so staying aware is advisable. The market operates an 'evening swap-over' on Fridays and Saturdays, where most vendors change, offering a fresh experience if you visit during the day and then again at night.
Beyond shopping, the market is surrounded by numerous restaurants and eateries, providing ample opportunities for dining before or after your exploration. The indoor sections offer a welcome respite from the heat, complete with restrooms and food options. Remember to explore all four blocks of the market to fully appreciate the diversity of offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit