Charleston City Market

Charleston City Market

Introduction

The Charleston City Market is a historic and bustling public marketplace located in the heart of Charleston, offering an authentic shopping experience steeped in local culture. Established in 1804, this expansive market stretches four city blocks and is home to more than 300 local merchants. Visitors can find a diverse range of handcrafted goods, local food, and unique souvenirs, making it an essential stop for anyone looking to experience the best of Charleston’s history and craftsmanship.Among the treasures at the City Market are the iconic Sweetgrass Baskets—handwoven creations made from sweetgrass, bulrush, and pine. These baskets have a rich history, originating on local plantations for rice winnowing but now serving as both functional items and works of art. Today, they are highly sought after as souvenirs, each one handcrafted by local artisans. The market also features a special Certified Authentic: Handmade in Charleston seal, displayed by vendors who create products 100% fabricated in the Charleston area. This program aims to recognize and support local artisans, ensuring that visitors take home authentic Charleston-made products.

Tags

Explore the historic Charleston City Market, where you can shop for authentic locally made sweetgrass baskets and other handcrafted goods.

Local tips

To get the most out of your visit, take time to explore each of the four market buildings, as each offers a different selection of local arts, crafts, and food. Don’t miss the opportunity to speak with the artisans who create the sweetgrass baskets—many of them are happy to share the story behind their craft. If you're looking for the best selection of authentic Charleston-made products, look for the Certified Authentic: Handmade in Charleston tile at each vendor booth.

Directions

The Charleston City Market is located at 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, right in the heart of downtown Charleston. It’s easily accessible by foot from many nearby attractions, and there is parking available in nearby lots. The market is open seven days a week, but be sure to check the hours of individual vendors before visiting.
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