[2023 GUIDE] The Best Places for Shopping in Charleston

Shopping in Charleston offers some of the best shopping experiences in the US. From high-end designer stores like Gucci and Louis Vuitton at The Shops at Belmond Charleston Place to small locally-owned shops like Blue Bicycle Books, the Vault/Haute Hanger, and Las Olas, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, you can find antique housewares and vintage furniture at Page’s Thieves Market, as well as modern and old-fashioned games and toys at the Magnifilous Toy Emporium on Upper King Street.

For those who prefer traditional malls and shopping centers, they are just a short drive away. Outlet malls and shopping centers are in North Charleston and over the Ravenel Bridge in Mount Pleasant. Additionally, open market-style shopping centers, such as the Charleston City Market and Charleston Farmers Market, are easily accessible within walking distance of anywhere downtown.

The Best Places to Go Shopping in Charleston

1. King Street

King Street is a vibrant shopping center located in the city of Charleston. It offers a mix of old and new, with its historical buildings, contemporary restaurants, and upscale shops. Pedestrian-friendly pavements make accessing the range of chic boutiques and antique stores easy, making it a great shopping destination for everyone.

King Street can be divided into three distinct districts. The lower district is home to a number of antique shops, while the upper district provides a range of dining options. The middle district is where you can find fashion retailers. The street stretches from the northern highway to the southern coast, running through most of Charleston.

2. City Market

The Historic Charleston City Market is one of the most visited places in Charleston, although people may mistakenly refer to it as the “slave market.” In fact, no slaves were ever bought or sold here. It was where slaves bought items such as meat, vegetables, and seafood for the plantations.

Today, locals and visitors alike flock to the market to purchase souvenirs, crafts, woven baskets, jewelry, clothing, sweets, and artwork. One can stroll through the market to experience Charleston’s true Southern charm or visit one of the numerous restaurants for a culinary experience. The market is open 364 days a year (closed Christmas Day) from 9:30 am – 5:30 pm, and metered street parking is available around the market.

The Charleston City Night Market occurs every Friday and Saturday evening from March to December. This free event is open to the public from 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. and showcases over 100 talented artists and craftspeople. Enjoy live entertainment and a festive atmosphere outdoors at twilight and stroll through the three-block-long market. All vendors are 100% local and offer 100% locally-made items for sale. If you are looking for a unique souvenir or artwork, the Charleston City Night Market is where to find it.

3. Shops at Charleston Place

The Charleston Place Hotel allows shoppers to purchase high-end luxury brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tommy Bahama. These shops are located in the East and West wings of the hotel, between King and Meeting streets. With such a convenient location, visitors to the hotel can easily enjoy a luxurious shopping experience.

4. Charleston Farmers Market

The Charleston Farmers Market is a weekend event in Marion Square each Saturday from 8 am – 2 pm from April to the end of November. It is a well-loved event by locals and tourists alike and has been voted “Best Outdoor Event” and “Best Attraction” in Charleston several years in a row.

The selection of goods available at the Farmers Market is vast, featuring produce, plants, herbs, flowers, prepared foods, breakfast and lunch vendors, live entertainment, and arts and crafts from local artisans. It is conveniently located within walking and biking distance of most downtown hotels, and there are several parking garages within a half mile of Marion Square. 

The Farmers Market is transformed into a holiday market for the first three weekends in December. The hours are extended for this special occasion, and there is more to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Charleston Farmers Market has something for everyone.

5. Mount Pleasant Town Centre

Mount Pleasant Town Centre is located approximately 15 minutes from downtown Charleston. This open-air shopping center provides a unique shopping experience with 65 chain and local stores. It offers a 16-screen grand theater to view the latest movies along with shopping. Additionally, the center has a large selection of restaurants to satisfy any craving.

6. Quadrangle Shopping Centre

Quadrangle Shopping Centre is located in West Ashley, just a few miles east of the city center. It provides convenient shops and services, including a supermarket, bakery, deli, and salon. The main anchor of this shopping center is the Piggly Wiggly, which provides a wide range of products, from ready-to-eat meals to ingredients for home cooking.

The center also offers local services like a dry cleaner and salon. Additionally, the craft store here has become very popular with customers. If you’re looking for a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs, Quadrangle Shopping Centre is worth a visit.

7. The Shops at Belmond

The Shops at Belmond offer an unparalleled shopping experience. Located on the eastern edge of Harleston Village off Meeting Street, this shopping center is home to some of the world’s most famous brands. You can find the top designer names from Godiva and St. John to Gucci.

In addition, the Shops at Belmond also have a range of unique stores offering an array of gifts crafted by local artisans. Whether you’re looking for something special for yourself or a loved one, you’ll find it at Belmond Boutique.

8. Mount Pleasant Old Village

Mount Pleasant Old Village is a popular shopping center across the Cooper River, about 18 minutes from the city center. It is known for its balance of quality and affordability, with retailers focused primarily on clothes and home décor and some designer stores with higher-end items such as jewelry and women’s wear. Furthermore, the shopping center is aesthetically pleasing, making it a great place to simply window shop.

For a unique experience, visitors should stop at the hand-spun milkshake shop. Here you can enjoy a classic soft drink fountain. Mount Pleasant Old Village is a great place for a satisfying shopping experience.

9. Tanger Outlet Center

The Tanger Outlet Center is conveniently located in North Charleston, just a 20-minute drive from downtown Charleston. It is an open-air mall offering a variety of stores. Shoppers can find name-brand retailers such as Coach, Banana Republic, Polo Ralph Lauren, Nine West, J. Crew, and Brooks Brothers. In total, the outlet center has about 85 stores.

Shopping in Charleston FAQ

What street are all the shops on in Charleston?

The shops in Charleston are located on King Street. King Street is the anchor of downtown retail and has a wide variety of offerings to customers.

What is the best street to shop on in Charleston?

King Street in Charleston is renowned for its shopping opportunities. It is a charming street of small boutiques and family businesses that have been around for centuries. This renowned shopping street has even been recognized as one of the 10 Best Shopping Districts in the U.S. King Street offers a unique selection of home goods, jewelry, and clothing that can only be found here. Shopping on King Street is a great way to experience the true southern charm of Charleston.

What good is Charleston, SC is known for?

Welcome to the Charleston City Market, one of the nation’s oldest public markets and the cultural heart of Charleston. Located in the historic district of downtown Charleston, the Charleston City Market has been a beloved destination for generations of locals and visitors alike. 

With over 300 vibrant entrepreneurs, the market offers an array of handmade items, art, jewelry, souvenirs, and more. Visitors can explore the market’s many stalls, browse the diverse selection of goods, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The market is open every day of the year except December 25th. We invite you to experience the unique atmosphere and discover why the Charleston City Market is such a beloved destination.

Does Charleston have a shopping mall?

Yes, Charleston does have a shopping mall. The mall is Citadel Mall, located in Charleston, South Carolina. This mall provides visitors with a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.