The Charleston City Market is a must-do on any trip to the Holy City. This four-block-long market has over 300 vendors and features a charming assortment of local wares.
From sweetgrass baskets and handcrafted teapots to delicious fried chicken and biscuits, the Charleston City Market is fun for the entire family. Best of all, it has a day market and a night market that are both worth exploring.
Venture through this historic market and one thing is for certain — you won’t leave empty handed.
About the Charleston City Market
Established in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, the Charleston City Market is one of the oldest public markets in the nation. Construction first began when Charles Cotesworth Pinckney ceded the land to the city government in 1788 on one condition: The land had to be used to house a market.
It took more than 20 years to build the market, although it opened a few years prior to its completion. The market buildings originally sold meat, vegetables and fish. It wasn’t until the 1970s that vendors began selling other local wares.
The Charleston City Market is housed in a gorgeous Grecian building on Meeting Street in historic downtown Charleston. Much of the original building has survived natural disasters, wars and fires.
The Market Hall that visitors see today is not the original hall. The current hall was built in 1841 by Edward B. White after the original structure was destroyed in a fire. It is now a National Historic Landmark and earned its place in an exhibit at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C.
Today, the market is known as the “cultural heart of Charleston” and features an ever-evolving collection of wares from talented locals throughout the Lowcountry. From beautiful handcrafted teapots to authentic sweetgrass baskets, every product has been carefully curated and has its own unique story.
The Day Market
Hand-carved wood bowls, original works of art and mouthwatering breakfast biscuits can all be found at the Day Market. Open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., this market offers visitors the opportunity to marvel at its impressive architecture and take in the full sights and sounds of Charleston’s busy public marketplace.
The Day Market offers fun for the entire family. Located in the center of the city, it’s easy to access whether you’re parked downtown or walking to the market from your downtown hotel.
Just remember to bring a good pair of walking shoes. The market is only four blocks long, but you might end up walking up and back down again if you spot something that catches your eye.
Explore the History of the City Market
If you want to learn more about the City Market’s fascinating history, consider taking a walking tour. A knowledgeable guide will uncover the rich history of the market, including the period when it was split into four unique sections until it was later consolidated into one center market.
Find a Charleston Treasure
Stroll through the market and you’ll find everything from jewelry and soaps to wood carvings and leather goods. One prized craft that you can find here is a sweetgrass basket, a centuries-old craft of African origin made by next-generation Gullah weavers.
Lowcountry art, decorative pillows with nautical themes, Edgar Allen Poe art — you can find it all at the Charleston City Market. Just be aware of sticker shock. Although these items are pricier than your average souvenir, they are handmade and of much higher quality. Many of the goods sold here have been lovingly handcrafted by local vendors, and the price reflects as much.
Savor Local Goodies
The Day Market also has a wide variety of gourmet goodies for foodies to enjoy. From Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit to vendors selling a mix of foods and spices, there is plenty to keep your stomach full and happy.
After exploring the City Market, make your way to nearby Bitty and Beau’s Coffee and sip a delicious coffee while you rest your feet. Later, you can hit the Night Market and experience another side to Charleston.
The Night Market
The Day Market is a great experience for first-time visitors, but the Night Market is also not to be missed. After sunset, the Charleston City Market offers different wares and displays a unique side of Charleston’s culture that is worth experiencing.
Open every Friday and Saturday from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., the Night Market features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere. Thanks to Charleston’s exceptional weather, you can stroll along the four-block market in comfort without being too hot or cold.
Handmade Arts, Crafts and Treats
If you’re looking for unique art to decorate your home, the Night Market is a great place to shop. There is a less touristy feel to the night market because it is reserved strictly for local artisans — meaning no mass-produced products.
You’ll find all sorts of interesting art and handmade crafts from local vendors, including hand-painted Lowcountry motifs and chic clutches that any Southern fashionista would love.
Need a good gift for a friend? From handcrafted sea salt scrubs and beautiful pearl jewelry to delicious saltwater taffy and lemon cookies, the Night Market has it all.
Final Thoughts
The past and present collide at this vibrant city market. Full of Southern charm and elegant handcrafted wares, the Charleston City Market is something that every visitor should experience.
The Day Market and Night Market are two distinct experiences, and each is worth a visit. Whether you’re searching for an authentic souvenir or want to nosh on gourmet eats, the historic Charleston City Market is bound to captivate all your senses.
