Dear reader,…read more Charleston City Market is exactly the sort of place that makes casual browsing turn into a full-fledged expedition. It is full of jewelry, handmade gifts, local art, and all manner of treasures, and so many visitors seem to love the same thing: the sheer variety and the chance to find something that actually feels special rather than mass-produced. That absolutely tracked for us. The Market itself has been a Charleston staple for over 200 years, and it still feels lively, local, and full of character. What really stood out for me was an artist who went by Andy, who had a collection of pop art vinyl records that was genuinely fantastic. Using mixed media, he created pieces featuring different singers, musicians, and bands on old vinyl records, which felt both clever and beautifully done. I chose an amazing Mary J. Blige piece that was also hand-painted, and I was absolutely thrilled with it. The value of your dollar was VERY worth getting one (or more)! Cash only! Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable wander and a very good place to find art, gifts, and a few things you did not know you needed. I would happily go back.

Impressive place! The Charleston City Market goes 4 blocks. The shopping experience stretches from…read moreMeeting Street (where you'll enter) to the end of the waterfront. We had no idea until we entered just how far it went; it goes "on & on"! So much history within these buildings. It's one of the oldest public markets in the U.S. Has weathered many storms and has been registered in the National Registry of Historic Places. Established in 1788 (even though the inside entrance stats 1807) & as of today it still stands on the premises of monetary trades & services, as well as shared cultural heritage. There are countess vendors throughout this retail galleria. We enjoyed mainly browsing the works of products that were officially certified as Handmade in Charleston. You won't get tired of looking, but a lot of repeat sellers. It's essentially like a flea market if you will. It was fun, but way too much basket weaving vendors. Was so intriguing to watch the Gullah artistry & understand its importance here, but would have liked to have seen and explored MORE local foods. Wished that they would have had a specific area that was an actual type of wet market/ open-air concept or traditional marketplace that sells fresh, perishable foods like meat, seafood, and produce focusing more on local eats and food heritage of its distinct low country cuisine. There were some food spots, just not what we had envisioned or experiencing with other east coast markets we've been to. Bought a bottled water that was over $5! Other than that, we didn't buy anything else. However, definitely worth a stroll and a unique experience. Perfect touristy spot! *Open daily 9:30 AM-5:30 PM Fri & Saturday Night 6:30 PM -10:30 PM

One word " unprofessionalism " from corporate down to store…read moremanagers. The corporation /owner is not listed anywhere for communication. They should know what goes on in their store.

Very cute items for both adults and children. Convenient location right near the market.read more

If you want to get a nice souvenir for someone and support the lovely city of Charleston, this is…read morethe place to do it! I bought a Brackish bracelet for my wife here and she liked how unique it was. You can't get something like this anywhere else. The bracelet I chose was exclusively made for Preservation Society of Charleston. If I'm ever back here, I'll probably have to pick up one of the awesome Brackish bowties or other fun item here.

The Preservation Society is my go-to for gifts! Everything in here is of high quality and offers a…read morevariety of price ranges. The staff is always helpful and ready to explain the background of each manufacturer. The Smithey cookware is iconic. During this visit, I purchased a few jewelry pieces from Brackish for my girls. They are absolutely the most unique jewelry! I also bought some cards, spiced nuts and oyster Christmas ornaments for gifts. I bring all of our guests downtown and we always include a trip to the Preservation Society. It's a fav for sure!

Lovely selection of quality ornaments. The sales associate, Hannah, was so kind and thoughtful. She…read moreeven pointed out one of the ornaments had some paint missing and suggested I get another one. Definitely recommend!

We were on our way to the city market, and we passed by the store and had to stop. There is a huge…read moreselection of all different styles of ornaments, from the real fragile to the real sturdy, plus a wide variety of topics. I really enjoyed the selection, and the owner was very nice. I would definitely stop back again!

So disappointed!!! We went into the shop right before 6 the doors were still open. I really wanted…read moreto buy a book of Charleston but a very rude older employee to us that they were closed and we needed to leave. My daughter even asked if I could purchase the book that I needed and the same employee said "we're good and no I couldn't. What a bitter taste of Charleston this left with is!!! I will purchase my book elsewhere!!!

This is a fun, and different, bachelorette type of experience! The very nice worker helped us…read moredesign our hat. We simply came to her with all of our favorite patches and pins! I will say that the elements of the hat do add up price wise! But it was a great time and we love our hats!

From the owner: Mess Hall Truck Shop is your go-to destination for fun! An immersive shopping experience where you…read morecreate your own custom product. A DIY craft for adults and kids! Our make-your-own experience is perfect for team building activities, family activities, or bachelorette party ideas. Pick from our playful selection of iron on patches and pins to decorate your product and create a one of a kind souvenir. Shop our unique food themed gifts. Our customizable products make thoughtful and creative handmade gifts. Whether you’re planning a bachelorette weekend, searching for things to do with kids, or looking for fun things to do in Charleston or Savannah, Mess Hall combines nostalgia and creativity with its camp cafeteria vibe—all food, no mood! Come see why we’re the ultimate hat shop for statement accessories, souvenirs, and gifts. A shop full of treasures and an unforgettable activity for all ages!

This surf shop came to the rescue during my long weekend trip to Charleston! It was later on a…read moreSunday and my mom had expressed a desire for me to bring her back a t-shirt. Most gift shops were closed by that point, aside from Pipeline. They had a huge selection, so I ended up spending way over $100 for toooo much stuff. I even bought myself a couple of shirts and magnets. They had items for both Charleston and Isle of Palms, which was even better. I'd definitely recommend this spot. And it's HUGE.

Items are great but customer survive....terrible! They have hermit crabs dead in their cage, no…read morewater, and it's overcrowded. Straight up animal abuse. When I kindly informed the single cashier about the hermit crabs having no water he looked at me and laughed, then went back to working. I will not be going back.

An amazing shop with great prices. Because it is non profit everything is taxed free.read more

From the owner: The mission of Historic Charleston Foundation is to champion the historic authenticity, cultural…read morecharacter, and livability of the Charleston region through advocacy, stewardship, and community engagement. Enjoy tax-free shopping in our nonprofit store.