Charleston City Market — Attraction in Charleston

This was a manaigry of sights, sounds & smells! 4 buildings full of artists & vendors. I got permission from the different artists to take their pictures & crafts. We went on a Saturday and it was Packed! The parking was a Nightmare as it is definitely a destination spot, but parking doesn't support the influx of people wanting to visit. If this is a place that you want to go, my suggestion is go early & bring your patience. Love all of the bike taxi's thought it was a fun way you could get around. I'm not a fan of the horse-drawn Carrages. I personally don't think the horses are treated ethically, so I refuse to fund the practice. Back to the Market... Food, Fashion & the Artists. Joyce's Choices I found in Building "C" ( 31 ) Watercolors, Wood Plaques, Ghost Prints, Unique Framing, Books, Inspirational Verses & Cards. Usually, No Photos are allowed, but Joyce gave me permission to share her work with you. Bought a few pieces to add to the house & had a wonderful conversation. Highly recommend that you go by & say Hello. You may just find that perfect treasure to add to your Space. Had fun at this booth also located in Building "C" in the back half. I sadly can't find her card or anything right now, which is very frustrating to me. That aside, you can't miss her! She has a booth full of hand towels with great sayings as well as pillows, bags, flour sacks and more! She is exceptionally sweet and gave me permission to take pictures of her products. If I can locate her information, I will try to edit this post to include. Golden Goodies in Building "A" ( 18 ) Kathryn helped me pick out some Amazing Silver Jewelry pieces. Two of my treasures are the Mermaid Tail & the Rice Chain. They have a wide selection of rings, nautical pieces & unusual finds. They also have pieces that are made specifically for them. One Day, I hope to make the charm bracelet with all of the places and things specific to Charleston. Till then, I took a picture to remind me of the beauty. The last artist that I want to share is Debra. I came across her booth at the very end of my trip. She has hand-made Jewelry featuring Pearls & other Semi Precious stones. I shared a few pictures of her work, had my budget been bigger, I would have brought home one of her pieces. All in all... I definitely recommend that you make a Trip here to find your own Treasures...

My wife and I recently visited the Charleston City Market (often called the Charleston Street Market) during our December 2024 stay in downtown Charleston, and it was one of the highlights of our holiday trip! Dating back to the early 1800s, this historic market spans several blocks and is home to over 300 vendors, offering everything from locally made crafts to delicious Southern treats. The entire place was decked out with festive decorations for Christmas—twinkling lights, holiday garlands, and cheerful music made the atmosphere feel extra special.

We spent the afternoon wandering past endless stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, including the famous sweetgrass baskets, artisanal jewelry, hand-poured candles, and so much more. What really caught our eye—and our sweet tooth—was the variety of food vendors, each offering their own unique specialties. We ended up buying some chocolate from a friendly chocolatier near the entrance, and just before heading out, we found a stand selling fresh key lime pie. We couldn’t resist grabbing a slice—let’s just say it didn’t last very long!

Part of what makes the Charleston City Market so memorable, besides the mouthwatering snacks, is the sense of history and local pride that fills the air. Established in the early 19th century, the market was once a center of daily life for Charlestonians, and it remains one of the oldest public markets in the United States. During the holidays, there’s an added layer of magic: the vendors often decorate their booths with holiday themes, and you can hear Christmas carols drifting through the aisles.

If you’re looking for a quintessential Charleston experience—especially at Christmastime—I’d highly recommend a visit to the Charleston City Market. Between the festive ambiance, the fascinating history, and the huge variety of local artisans, it’s truly a must-see destination. And if you have a sweet tooth like us, don’t leave without sampling the treats. Trust me: the chocolate and key lime pie alone are...

Charleston City Market is a vibrant and historic marketplace that captures the essence of Charleston's charm and culture. Spread over several blocks, this open-air market offers a unique shopping experience, showcasing local artisans, craftspeople, and food vendors.

One of the standout features of the City Market is its rich history, dating back to the early 1800s. The market is housed in a series of brick buildings that exude Southern charm, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors. As you stroll through the market, you'll find an array of handmade goods, including sweetgrass baskets, jewelry, and artwork, all crafted by local artisans. This not only supports the community but also allows visitors to take home a piece of Charleston's heritage.

The food options are equally impressive, with vendors offering a variety of local delicacies. You can savor traditional Lowcountry cuisine, sample sweet tea, or indulge in freshly made pralines. The atmosphere is lively, often accompanied by local musicians playing sweet Southern tunes, adding to the overall experience.

While the market can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, the energy is infectious. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture, meet friendly vendors, and discover unique souvenirs.

Overall, Charleston City Market is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Charleston. Whether you’re looking for handmade crafts, delicious food, or simply a taste of the city’s rich history, this market offers a delightful experience that showcases the best of what Charleston...