Look Linger Love

Compensation for this post was provided by Discover card via AOL Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Discover card or AOL.

A love note of sorts to Charleston,

I could go on for ever about the amazing people, places, and things to do here in Charleston. There are so many ways to spend an enjoyable day here, regardless of the time of year. I thought it would be fun to share a city guide focused on exploring downtown Charleston in a budget friendly way. What to do, where to go, and what to order at a good value.

Let’s start with breakfast at The Park Cafe. It’s one of my favorites spots downtown due to it’s charming interior and wonderful food. Try the almond butter with wild flower honey toast and half a grapefruit.

I think that Charleston’s best feature is our charming, historical neighborhoods. I highly recommend a walk or bike ride through the South of Broad neighborhood. Be sure to hit the obvious spots like Rainbow Row and the Battery on the Harbor, but also explore the alleys and gardens through out.

For an easy but very Charleston lunch hit up Hot Little Biscuit. It’s Callie’s Biscuits’ only restaurant and though it’s tiny (very narrow space), it’s totally worth the stop in! You really can’t go wrong ordering here but I definitely recommend anything in a biscuit bowl! By the way, this is a great late night spot, too!

One of my favorite dwellings in Charleston is the Nathaniel Russell Home. The interiors are restored to their original 1808 grandeur (i.e. jaw dropping gorgeous), and the surrounding formal gardens are exquisite. Just trust me on this that this tour is worth the visit.

Next let’s head over to Cannon Street for a snack and a little shopping. Sugar is known for serving Charleston’s best cupcakes, and yes they’re amazing, but I think that their cookies are really where it’s at. There’s a side garden for putting your feet up, too.

A few doors down is my favorite paper shop, Mac N Murphy. It’s full of charm and of the coolest lines like Rifle Paper Co and Poppin. They also carry collections from local talents like Teil Duncan, Sally Benedict, and 42 Pressed. What the two bff’s behind Mac N Murphy pick up to carry in store, others in the field follow.

One of my most favorite, favorite restaurants in town in Xiao Bao Biscuit. They’re self described as being influenced by kick-ass grandmothers everywhere. It’s Asian soul food at it’s best. I really recommend ordering as much as you can because everything is good, but in the spirit of the theme of this post you’ll get the most bang out of your buck from the okonomiyaki. It’s a japanese cabbage pancake. And go ahead and load it up with the pork candy, egg, and bacon. Heaven.

For more of my favorite Charleston spots to see, eat at, and stay at, check out my complete Charleston City Guide!