South Carolina’s oldest and largest city, Charleston is nicknamed the “Holy City” because of an ordinance stating that no building can tower over the tallest church steeple. Because of this, there are no skyscrapers of any kind in the city, which has allowed Charleston to maintain its historic character. Home to a stunning landscape and award-winning restaurants, Charleston is truly the center for all things Southern charm.

History buffs revel in the many historical sites throughout Charleston, including the Fort Sumter National Monument, where the first shots at the Civil War were fired. Pristine beaches, the mighty Angel Oak tree, and the vast Lowcountry are popular with the city’s nature lovers. Residents adore the unique boutiques lining King Street, and the live performances at America’s first theater, the Dock Street Theater.