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

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.