CITY SPOTLIGHT:

YOUR GUIDE TO North Charleston, South Carolina

iced tea

Know Before You Go: About North Charleston

The tea is sweet, the weather is warm and the welcome mat is out in North Charleston.

Head on down to North Charleston, for a bit of tea "sippin'," beer tasting and some outdoor fun. Visit historic Civil War sites, or maybe pack a picnic and head for Riverfront Park. Let the kids burn off some energy while you relax under the shade of an old oak tree. The tea is sweet, the weather is warm and the welcome mat is out. Start packing and get in on the South Carolina fun.

Ice Tea Sippin' Weather

The waterfront location keeps the North Charleston temperatures at a more comfortable level than inland locales. In summer, especially in July and August, you'll find average temperatures in the 80s, with occasional spikes into the low 90s. You'll see the most rain during this time, with August sometimes getting up to 7 inches. The humidity is on the high side, but the breezes coming in off the water help out later in the day. To stay comfortable, wear lightweight, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. Temperatures rarely get below the 40s, even in winter.

From Riverfront Relaxing to Bacon Beer

Riverfront Park is the local gathering place, especially on hot, humid days. It sits on the Cooper River, and the waterfront breezes cool things off nicely. Pack a picnic lunch and find a spot on the meadow or on a shaded bench and relax. During the 4th of July Festival, the park becomes energized. Bring the family for food, music and fireworks. If you're a Civil War buff, check out the H.L. Hunley submarine at the Warren Lasch Conservation Center. Tours are available most weekends. Love to sample unusual beers? Head to the Holy City Brewing Company. Tours are available; just ask at the tap room. Sample the bacon porter, known as the "Notorious P.I.G."

Business and Tourism in North Charleston

After the Charleston Naval Base and Shipyard closed in 1996, North Charleston went from a military-based economy to a business-based. The land was reclaimed, with some of it devoted to parks, like Riverfront, and entertainment and business centers. The idea was, and is, to draw people to the area just so you could relax and enjoy yourself. In this town, tourism and business go hand in hand. Whether you're coming for a meeting or a family vacation, you are most welcome.

Planes, Trains and Maybe a Rental Car

If you're flying into town, the Charleston International Airport, roughly 7 miles away, is the closest option; Delta, United and American are just some of the available carriers. Take Amtrak, and you'll get off on Gaynor Avenue. Prefer the bus? Greyhound has a station on Dorchester Road. CARTA, the regional public transit system, offers service from the airport and around town.

Ready to travel? Find hotels in North Charleston.

Things to Do in North Charleston

Come to North Charleston for the history, the food and the relaxed Southern hospitality.