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coastal towns
Beaufort,
SC
Bluffton, SC
Brunswick
Islands, NC
Charleston &
its Resort Islands, SC
Conway, SC
Currituck, NC
Edisto Island, SC
Georgetown, SC
Hardeeville, SC
Hilton Head
Island, SC
Jasper
County, SC
Mount
Pleasant, SC
North Myrtle
Beach, SC
Myrtle
Beach, SC
Northeast NC: Edenton, New Bern, Elizabeth City, Hertford
Ocean Isle Beach, NC
Outer Banks, NC
Pawleys
Island/Litchfield, SC
Savannah,
GA
Southport, NC
Summerville, SC
Walterboro, SC
Washington, NC
Whiteville, NC
Wilmington, NC
Books About The
Carolinas
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Flicka's fantasy.
What handsome steed (and rider) wouldn't enjoy a leisurely saunter around
Boone Hall Plantation, where live oak trees planted in 1740 meet overhead, and
the magnificent grounds whisper of the history that was molded here. A must-see
during any visit to the South Carolina Lowcountry.
Like grand old ladies waving their fans, the 90+ oaks lining
the avenue leading to Boone Hall Plantation shade, protect and
welcome travelers to the majestic house. Spanish Moss drapes
the branches and in spring, azaleas add colorful touches.
It’s a perfect way to make your entrance.
It’s one of America’s most photographed plantations and for
good reason. Boone Hall Plantation is also one of America’s
oldest working plantations. Once known for growing cotton and pecans,
they still produce strawberries, tomatoes, pumpkins and other fruits
and vegetables for visitors to enjoy, courtesy of U-Pick fields, open to the public in season.
Come experience the patriotism, honor and character at Patriots Point
Naval & Maritime Museum, where visitors view priceless war planes
used during conflicts spanning from WWII through Desert Storm.
Also home to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and of course the USS
Yorktown, visitors of all ages will be inspired as they learn more about the
brave souls who fought to keep America free.
The Pitt Street Bridge in the Old Village of Mount Pleasant is a popular
fishing and walking area for locals and visitors. Here, sojourners can
delight in green spaces among the historic buildings and cemeteries.
There’s even a doggie park nearby where Fido can enjoy leisure time making new friends.
The Old Village Post House seamlessly combines the centuries-old tradition of
the post house with food that is up-to-the-moment and fabulous.
You’ll find this fine dining establishment amidst the moss-draped oaks of the
old Village of Mount Pleasant.
Stop by the Kruger B. Smith Visitor Center at Memorial
Waterfront Park during your visit to Mount Pleasant.
These delightful folks will help you and yours find the perfect
accommodations, dining experiences and fun-filled adventures –
plus they’ve got all the info on outdoor events and celebrations.
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Carolina Day Trips: Insider Guide to Visiting Mount Pleasant, SC
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hy spend a day or two exploring Mount Pleasant when the glories of Charleston are just across the bridge? Because, as wonderful as Charleston is, with its many opportunities for fine dining and fabulous shopping, Mount Pleasant has a charm all its own.
Perhaps some of the culinary talent, charm and individual-ness have crossed that bridge to become slightly removed from the constant barrage on the senses that you’ll find in the Holy City.
For many reasons, Mount Pleasant is a destination all its own, and has been
recognized as an All
America City. Visit in conjunction with a trip to Charleston if you like, but carve out a day or so to explore. You’ll find a parallel universe within eyesight of the big city.
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Where to Stay
Plantation Oaks Inn is a premier choice. Built on the historic property of what was once part of Snee Farm Plantation, which was owned by Charles Pinckney (signer of the United States Constitution), this luxurious log exterior bed and breakfast is surrounded by 300-year-old oak trees and features a tidal creek and marsh backdrop. There are five cozy guest rooms available, all individually decorated and all with luxurious linens and private baths. It’s next to Boone Hall Plantation, another destination worth the visit.
The breakfasts are legendary, with Sunday fare particularly scrumptious. Not sure about Southern biscuits? These will change your mind. However, if you’re lucky enough to get a warm ham and cheese panini, you won’t miss those Southern delicacies at all.
Which room to choose? Up to you. You’ll also want time to enjoy sitting on the dock and feasting your eyes on Lowcountry marshes. But don’t become beguiled into spending all day. There’s lots to do on this side of the bridge.
Historic Plantations, Churches & Other Sites
Boone Hall Plantation: Established by Major John Boone, one of the original settlers of South Carolina,
Boone Hall Plantation originally grew rice until it became a prosperous cotton-producing bonanza. There are nine original slave cabins, an old smokehouse, and a cotton gin. The approach, through three blocks of live oak trees, is simply breathtaking.
(If you’re visiting soon, the Greater Charleston Restaurant Association is hosting the 28th annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival January 30th, on the grounds of Boone Hall. Not sure about the salty bivalves? Give ‘em a try, with zesty cocktail sauce and a saltine cracker. Then let us know what you think about one of the south’s most notorious culinary treasures.)
Christ Church: Nearby Christ Church dates back to 1707 – more than 300 years. It was all but destroyed several times, but persevered and is worth a walkabout.
Charles Pinckney: Also, consider Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, the former residence of one of the framers of the constitution.
Café for Lunch
When it’s time for lunch, locals suggest the Sea Biscuit Café in the Isle of Palms. Well, some locals do – many in fact. A few visitors have been put off by certain dishes, but others swear by the food and give it five stars in a number of foodie blogs. The specials are the way to go, and hopefully that grouper eggs benedict is on the menu. That is a favorite in everyone’s estimation.
Waterside Tours, Museums & Attractions
After lunch, you have choices. If the weather is warm and sunny, consider taking a ride on Thriller, an off-shore tour boat that gives you a dolphin’s eye view of Charleston, Fort Sumter and Morris Island Lighthouse, among others. Barb and Mark are the owner/operators and they receive accolades from just about everyone. It’s fast and it’s fun. Take a baggie for your camera, and if it’s really hot, sit near the back where the water splashes more.
But what if the weather isn’t ideal for boating? No problem. Save Thriller for another day and tour Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, aboard the USS Yorktown carrier. For those of a certain age, there’s also a recreation of a US base in Vietnam that can be toured on site. Kids will love the experience, while history enthusiasts and veterans will be moved beyond words. Retired military guides are friendly and helpful. There are steep stairs, however, so be forewarned.
Wherever you are in Mount Pleasant, you won’t be far from water. There are parks and award-winning views everywhere you turn.
Dinner at Graze
When it’s time to dine, you could cross spectacular Ravenel Bridge and succumb to the temptations of old Charleston, but, for a night or two, stay close to your B&B and sample the deliciousness that can be found at Graze. Don’t let its strip-mall location dissuade you. The food and service has attracted enough enthusiasts to give it #1 rating out of more than 150 Mount Pleasant restaurant reviews.
One happy camper who lives in Charleston calls the fries “amazing.” (Tossed in truffle oil with garlic aioli on the side? I guess so.) Another self-proclaimed foodie
uses the same adjective and touts the “somewhat extensive but ridiculously well-priced wine list” as another reason to give it a try.
You’ll be close to home, and ready to kiss the night goodbye with a relaxing libation on the screened-in porch at Plantation Oaks.
Day Two: Brunch, Shopping & Sweets
Next morning. What to do? We suggest shopping, and we’ve got a few ideas that will make the excursion appealing to all ages. First, enjoy breakfast at the inn, or decide to give Page’s Okra Grill
a try for brunch. Urban Spoon reviewers love Page’s, and food blogs recommend the cheesy grits cakes with Andouille sausage gravy and shrimp, or the lightly fried shrimp and oysters. Call them at 843.881.3333.
As for shopping, if you want to return home with a bit of old Charleston, consider
Carolina Lanterns & Accessories
in Mount Pleasant. This business specializes in custom-made copper and brass lanterns and lamps that use propane, natural gas, or electricity. The Charleston ambience is elegant and authentic.
Or, visit the Antiques Market on Coleman Boulevard. It’s a popular destination with more than 20,000 square feet and 100+ vendors selling high-quality antiques, primitive pieces and collectibles.
The Old Mount Pleasant area features specialty boutiques and more antiques in a picturesque setting. Out on Highway 17, you’ll find Sweetgrass baskets for sale at local stands. The craft is handed down from generation to generation and requires patience and creativity. Longleaf pine needles are often added for design purposes, and now,
the baskets are considered show pieces. They aren’t cheap, but will last forever, in pristine condition.
Finally, reward your fellow travelers with a visit to Christophe Artisan Chocolatier-Patissier. Christophe Paume is a third-generation French chocolatier who learned his craft in Toulouse, France, worked in Paris, and, eventually, fell in love, married and moved to Charleston.
These are edible works of art, hand-painted and scrumptious. Try the rum flavor, with white chocolate ganache, mango puree and a hint of rum. Or be a bit more daring and sample savory Roquefort cheese in a dark chocolate ganache – heaven!
If you’re not ready to leave, Plantation Oaks may be able to accommodate you. If so, nearby Shem Creek is a beautiful waterway that is host to a number of award-winning restaurants and techni-color sunsets. Tomorrow is another day, and just across that bridge awaits Charleston.
More time to dine???
Try these excellent
choices:
Long Point Grill
Mustard Seed
Old Village Post
House (dinner only,
Sunday brunch)
Related
Reading
More About Mount Pleasant
Day Trips Directory
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About the Author
Katherine O. Pettit has worked as a writer, magazine editor, printer and
public relations consultant. The Columbia resident has published
more than 250 articles in magazines and newspapers. Her writing
explores a variety of subjects including travel, lifestyles, business
and management.
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