Hollywood has taken advantage of Charleston’s breathtaking seascapes, shady paths lined with trees, and historic streets. Pop some popcorn — we’re catching the Lowcountry on the big screen.
“The Righteous Gemstones” (2019-2024) | The HBO series is loaded with Holy City locations. Keep your eyes open — the show also looks for locals to fill the background as extras.
Boone Hall Plantation was used for scenes in The Notebook.
Movies “The Notebook” (2004) | Easily one of the most famous movies ever made in Charleston, browse the full list of local filming locations for this tearjerker.
“The Patriot” (2000) | You’ll spot several Holy City locations in this historical drama that is set during the American Revolution, including Randolph Hall, The Cistern, and Cypress Gardens.
Bar Takeover: Bar Contra | 6-8 p.m. | babas on meeting | $95 | Join Dave Arnold, co-owner of NYC’s Bar Contra, as he takes over babas on meeting for a patio party featuring specialty cocktails.
Kiawah River Full Moon Kayak Tour | 7 p.m. | Coastal Expeditions at Kiawah River, Johns Island | $75 | Paddle out into a tidal flat where dolphins, herons, and egrets call home to watch the sun set and the full moon rise.
Happy Flower Happy Hour | 7 p.m. | MIX, Mount Pleasant | $60 | Enjoy bites + sips while you learn how to create beautiful floral arrangements from a master florist.
Tuesday, May 13
Growing Green: Build a Backyard Bird Habitat | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Charleston County Public Library, Wando Mount Pleasant | Free | All levels of birders are welcome to learn how to create an environment that attracts a variety of local birds.
Gators of the Lowcountry | Times vary | Edisto Beach State Park | Free with park admission | Learn more about the state’s largest reptile and get an up-close look at one of the resident gators.
Korean Cooking Class | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Two Blokes Brewery, Mount Pleasant | $60 | Join this hands-on experience filled with tantalizing tastes, vibrant spices, and the joy of creating Korean dishes.
Wednesday, May 14
Reading Party | 6-8 p.m. | Philosophers & Fools | $20 | Settle in for a cozy series that makes gathering, unwinding, and reading together easy.
Sunset Dolphin Boat Cruise | 7 p.m. | Coastal Expeditions at Shem Creek, Mount Pleasant | $40 | Cruise through Charleston’s waters at sunset and try to spot some Lowcountry wildlife.
In honor of Great Outdoors Month, Columbia’s natural beauty is calling — whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun. | Photos provided by Experience Columbia SC
Pack your bags for a road trip to Columbia, SC this summer, when the city’s natural playground invites explorers of all ages to celebrate Great Outdoors Month in June.
From lush forests to sparkling lake shores, here are four can’t-miss ways to make the most of your outdoor adventure in this capital city:
Explore the old‑growth forest
Walk along elevated boardwalks situated beneath towering loblolly pines and bald cypresses in Congaree National Park. Keep an eye out for playful squirrels, migrating warblers, and the park’s famous swamp lilies in bloom.
Bask in sparkling waters
Whether you’re casting a line from a shaded pier, renting a boat for a day on the water, or simply soaking up the sun on the shore, Lake Murray encompasses spring serenity.
Float down the river
For a splashy afternoon, grab an inner tube and drift beneath leafy canopies on the Saluda River. Gentle currents and scenic vistas make for the perfect adventure. Pro tip: Check out this guide for more river fun.
Camp under the stars
Pitch your tent on one of three serene islands in Lake Murray. Then, enjoy evening campfires, wildlife sightings, and epic sunrises over the water.
No matter which option you choose, Columbia’s great outdoors awaits — ready to inspire, refresh, and connect you with nature all month long.
Pelato, a new Italian restaurant, is set to open tomorrow, May 13, at 5 p.m.. The new spot will call the former Butcher & Bee space on Morrison Drive home. Our mouths are already watering, and we can’t wait to try the chicken parmigiana and radiatori vodka.
Environment
Before you jump headfirst into the water, take a look at Charleston Waterkeeper’s first Swim Alert of the season. The project tests bacteria levels at 20 popular Charleston-area sites to ensure it’s safe to swim.
Mansion Monday
Looking for a woodsy escape? Look no further — this 6,800-sqft home is nestled on 13+ acres with direct access to the Bohicket River. The gated estate, AKA the Dance of the Dolphins, boasts grand floor-to-ceiling windows, a boatlift + dock, a home gym, and a guest house. See it for yourself.
Eat
Mark your calendars.Halls Chophouse Charleston has announced the final installment of its limited-run Friday Lunch Series, which is set for Friday, May 23. The weekday adaptation of its Saturday lunch service welcomes guests from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are highly encouraged.
Trending
Check this out. Erin + Jonathan Carpenter — known for their home renovations, laundromat, and Instagram presence — were recently featured on the Kelly Clarkson Show, where they were surprised with $10,000, which will help free laundry days, community dinners, and concerts continue at Reynolds Laundromat.
Number
5 million. That’s how many Mercedes-Benz Sprinters have been produced globally, and the North Charleston facility has contributed to that milestone after ~20 years in action. Fun fact: The 5 millionth commemorative vehicle was assembled at the North Charleston facility. (Charleston Regional Business Journal)
Kids
Just in time for summer. This Thursday, May 15, at 3:30 p.m., the City of Isle of Palms Recreation Department is hosting a grand opening ceremony for its new playground. Pro tip: Stick around because the Isle of Paws Music Festival starts at 4 p.m.
Edu
Charleston Southern University’s Aeronautics program has officially landed at the Summerville Airport. Officials say the program has grown from 19 students to 170, with more growth expected next school year. (WCSC)
Try This
Looking to try something new? Get inspired by Somm Wine Bar’s latest segment on “Palmetto Life,” where wine experts highlighted some unique ways to pair wine with your favorite snacks.
Plan Ahead
Looking for a venue for your special occasion? The Porch at Oyster House in downtown is perfect for rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, and more. With lots of tasty eats to choose from, you can treat your guests to Southern favorites like Lowcountry shrimp boils, oyster roasts, and barbecue. Explore pricing.*
Number
$30,000. That’s how much an Upstate woman won playing a new SC Education Lottery scratch-off. “I almost passed out,” she said when her ticket revealed the top prize. Now, she’s planning a vacation. See which game she won (and try your luck).†*
Featured Home
Located in scenic Summerville, The Coves at Lakes of Cane Bay is a master-planned community just minutes from top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and more. Enjoy easy highway access, lush trails, and choose from 10 versatile floorplans to suit your lifestyle.*
Coming Soon
Did this catch your eye? That’s because locals (like you) are excited about new happenings in the city. Spread the word about your business, services, big news, or event coming soon to Charleston.
Category
Drink
🍸 Sip, stamp, and win
Pro tip: Return your completed passport to the Veranda Lounge to claim your prize. | Photo provided by The Loutrel
Let us introduce you to The Loutrel’s Moonlight Martini Trail, where you will win prizes for trying six of Charleston’s best martinis.
The prizes
Half off Fine Brine Pickle Martinis at Veranda Lounge for the rest of 2025.
One person will win the grand prize, which is a stay at The Loutrel + a curated basket of Charleston-inspired goodies.
Here’s how to participate.
Pick up their passport from The Veranda Lounge.
Order a signature martini at each of the six destinations and show your passport to the bartender to collect a stamp.
Once all stamps have been collected, verify your passport at Veranda Lounge. A winner for the grand prize will be selected on Saturday, Nov. 1.
Tap here to explore the six stops + their signature martinis.
A cotton wrap dress that boasts an elegant halter neckline and chic wrapping at the waist. We love it for summer grill outs, casual afternoons by the beach, and warm weather weekend hangouts.
ICYMI: We played a little game on Instagram last week — we gave three options each for a main, a side, and a dessert, and asked you to build your ideal Charleston lunch combo.
Here are my results. I’ll admit, this was a tough decision — but I’ve settled on Berkeley’s Greek salad, Melvin’s fried okra, and Heavy’s Triple H pie.
Let us know your choices in the comments of this post.
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