We Came, We Ate, We Considered Moving to Charleston
- Tricia and Todd Blakney
- Apr 4
- 5 min read
If you’ve followed along with our travels for any amount of time, you already know this… but I’ll say it again:
Charleston, South Carolina is my favorite city in the U.S.
I mean… how could it not be?
It’s filled with southern charm, rich history, incredible food, and the kind of hospitality that just makes you feel good. Oh—and Todd and I were married here, so it definitely holds a special place in our hearts.
If I could choose anywhere to live in the U.S., it would be Charleston. Hands down.
It’s truly a destination for all ages—whether you’re into food, history, beaches, shopping, or just soaking in beautiful scenery.
A Local’s Perspective: Meet Kimberly
To make this guide even better, I interviewed Kimberly Ritter, who has lived in Charleston for 20 years and is a local realtor at Carolina One—so she really knows this city inside and out.
Here’s what she had to say 👇
What made you fall in love with Charleston?
“I would say first and foremost, it's the people. It just seems that everyone is more at peace and just full of joy who live here. The other thing is the creation that God made—the gorgeous water, the gorgeous birds, the dolphins, even the alligators, but most definitely the people!”
What’s one thing you would tell someone visiting for the first time?
“Put your phones down, bring your walking shoes, and just get lost downtown Charleston. Enjoy the history, the people, and the scenery.”
If you only had 24 hours—where should you eat?
“Most definitely the first thing that comes to my mind is Halls Chophouse. Now everyone always says, ‘hey, a steakhouse is a steakhouse’—well, Halls Chophouse is not just a steakhouse. It’s the best food in town, the best service in town, the friendliest place in town, and the best drinks in town. That’s my personal opinion. Going back to the people…you’re going to most definitely get a good idea of what hospitality is all about. After all, Charleston is known for the hospitality.” Halls Chophouse - The Charleston Steakhouse - Downtown, Charleston, SC
What’s the one dish everyone has to try?
“OK, so this is difficult because Halls Chophouse does not have this dish, but I would most definitely say the one dish that you need to try in the Charleston area is shrimp & grits! There’s Hank's Seafood Restaurant Charleston Hours & Location | Hank's Seafood Restaurant that has it, which is phenomenal! Magnolias too! Home - Magnolias Restaurant in Charleston, SC There’s a multitude of other places that have it, as well. Shrimp & grits is most definitely one of the most famous dishes that Charleston is known for.”
I would have to agree with her on this one. Our friend Kristi had shrimp & grits at our wedding for the first time, and she fell in love. We still talk about her obsession to this day. We also send each other pictures of shrimp & grits when one of us is lucky to get to eat them, in effort to make each other envious and hungry!
What’s your favorite hidden gem?
“Well, if I tell you, then it won’t be a hidden gem anymore! However, I suppose I will share… South of Broad! Just go get lost there. Walk the streets, walk the cobblestone sidewalks… all the history, the architecture, the trees—just enjoy.”
Where do you take visitors for the “wow” moment?
“Walking the Ravenel Bridge and getting to the very top, feeling that sea breeze on your face, and looking at the Holy City skyline with all the church steeples—that is most definitely a wow moment!”
Describe your perfect day in Charleston-
“Depends on the time of year. If it's spring or summer, I would say heading to Wild Dunes Resort—sitting on the beach, listening to the waves with sand between my toes. Then coming in, taking a cool shower, getting dressed to go downtown—I am most definitely in a sundress and sandals—and walking around after dinner.
A perfect winter day in Charleston is heading downtown around noon, going to Basic Kitchen for a great, light, healthy lunch. Then walking around Queen Street, looking at all the front doors. I love seeing all the decorations, whether it's fall, winter, or the holidays. Then heading to King Street for several hours of shopping—make sure you go into those little alleyways because there are some great boutiques off the beaten path. Then heading somewhere for dinner, like Poogan's Porch, and then strolling a little more before heading home.”
I hate to say this, but after this interview, we were honestly a little sad—because it reminded us how much we MISS Charleston and our family there. It definitely had us ready to book another trip ASAP.
We actually went this summer with our friends on our annual trip with them, and it was everything!
We stayed at the same place we got married—Wild Dunes Resort—which made it more special! Luxury Isle of Palms Resort & Vacation Rentals | Wild Dunes | Wild Dunes
We took a boat through Charleston Vacation Boat Rentals, and it was such a fun experience for everyone.
And yes… we went to see the legendary Angel Oak Tree.
At first we were like, “Wait… we’re driving all this way to see a tree?” But once you see it, it’s absolutely insane. The Angel Oak is estimated to be over 400–500 years old and is one of the most breathtaking natural sights in the area.
It’s 100% a must-see.
Did You Know… 👀
For all my fellow Netflix fans—especially if you traveled with teens—this is a fun one.
The hit show Outer Banks is actually filmed in Charleston! Do you identify as a Pogue or a Kook?! There is only one acceptable answer!
This turned into a whole experience for us—trying to spot filming locations and recognize scenes from the show. It honestly kept the teens engaged the entire trip (which is saying a lot 😅). So if you’ve got kids or teens with you, this is an unexpected way to make Charleston even more fun.
Final Thoughts
Charleston isn’t just a place you visit once. It’s the kind of place that pulls you back again and again.
For us, it holds memories we’ll never forget—but even beyond that, it’s just that good. The food, the views, the energy… it all just works.
And if I ever had the chance to choose a city to live in?
Charleston. Every single time.
💛 A Big Thank You
Speaking of moving...
A huge thank you to Kimberly Ritter for taking the time to share her love and insight about Charleston. It’s people like her who truly bring the spirit of this city to life.
If you’re thinking about making Charleston your home (honestly…do it 😏), or even just exploring the idea, Kimberly is absolutely someone you want in your corner. She knows this city inside and out and is incredible at what she does!
Highly recommend reaching out to her—you’ll be in the best hands. Of course, I may be biased, because she's family. ❤️ Click the link below for her information-
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