Sip n’ Shop in Charleston

Thinking about adding a splash of fun and fashion to your Charleston trip? The Sip n’ Shop in Charleston is a guided experience that promises a relaxed, social way to explore the city’s best boutiques while enjoying wine, margaritas, and champagne. With a good reputation and an enthusiastic following, it’s clear this tour offers a blend of shopping, sipping, and socializing that appeals especially to friends celebrating special occasions.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines local boutique shopping with social sipping, making it perfect for groups looking for a laid-back, engaging day. The inclusion of exclusive discounts at each shop and a mead tasting at Savannah Bee Co. add genuine value. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour caters to small groups (max 10), which might feel a bit intimate if you’re seeking a more extensive shopping spree or a larger social scene.

This tour is an excellent choice for bachelorette parties, birthday gatherings, or girlfriends’ getaways. If you enjoy boutique shopping with a side of drinks and friendly guides, this experience might just be your new favorite way to spend an afternoon in Charleston.

Key Points

• Combines boutique shopping with wine, margaritas, and champagne
• Features exclusive discounts at local shops
• Includes a complimentary mead tasting at Savannah Bee Co.
• Ideal for celebrating special occasions with friends
• Small group size ensures personalized attention
• Convenient meeting points on King Street and at The Restoration Charleston

The Flow of the Tour: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point: Juanita Greenberg’s on King Street

The tour kicks off at Juanita Greenberg’s Nacho Royale on King Street, a beloved Charleston staple known for its margaritas, chips, and salsa. Here, you’ll begin your social and flavorful journey with a delicious margarita to loosen up the group. The lively atmosphere of King Street, packed with local shops, sets a vibrant scene for what’s to come.

Many reviews highlight the relaxed, friendly vibe. One guest noted, “We had such a fun time visiting shops that we were unfamiliar with, all while sipping on champagne or wine.” The initial meet-up at this central location makes it easy for downtown travelers to join without hassle, and the lively start gets everyone in the mood for a fun shopping adventure.

The Boutique Crawl

From Juanita’s, you’ll stroll along King Street, renowned for its diverse array of local shops and boutiques. The guided aspect means you’ll learn about each store’s story, which adds a layer of appreciation for Charleston’s unique retail scene. With small group size (max 10), you’ll get personalized attention, and the guide will point out the best picks and hidden gems.

The focus on local boutiques means you’re supporting small business owners directly—something savvy travelers increasingly value. Many reviews praise the discounts offered at each stop, which can significantly sweeten the deal. One reviewer shared, “The discounts were very nice, and it made shopping even more enjoyable.” Expect to visit several shops, each offering different styles, from trendy to classic.

Sampling and Sipping

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy complimentary wine, with the option for margaritas at Juanita’s right at the start. The highlight for many is the champagne toast at The Mercantile, located in the elegant Restoration Hotel. This celebratory moment snaps the group together for a memorable photo and makes the experience feel special.

Adding a dash of local flavor, you’ll also participate in a mead tasting at Savannah Bee Co.—a treat for those curious to try a different kind of fermented honey beverage. Many guests mention that the mead was a new discovery and a fun complement to the drinks.

Ending at The Restoration Hotel

The tour wraps up at the beautiful Restoration Hotel, where you’ll toast your shopping spree with champagne. It’s a fitting finale, offering a chance to relax and chat about your favorite finds. The hotel’s boutique, The Mercantile, is a lovely spot to browse further or pick up last-minute souvenirs.

The Practicalities

• Duration: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes—perfectly paced for a morning or afternoon activity
• Price: $65 per person, which includes drinks, tastings, discounts, and guide services
• Meeting points: Conveniently located at Juanita Greenberg’s on King Street and The Restoration Hotel in downtown Charleston
• Group size: Up to 10 travelers, allowing for a personalized experience
• Booking: Most travelers book about 41 days in advance, suggesting it’s popular among those planning ahead for special occasions

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a picture of a fun, social, and well-organized tour. Many mention how the guides make the experience lively and informative. One guest simply stated, “Devon was awesome – even gave us a great recommendation for lunch,” highlighting the added value of the guide’s local knowledge.

Another review noted, “Claire was amazing! We loved her and enjoyed every minute, even in the rain.” This indicates the guides’ professionalism and ability to keep spirits high despite weather hiccups.

The tour consistently receives praise for the quality of the shopping experience and the value of discounts, with many visitors feeling they received more than their money’s worth. A common theme is that the tour is ideal for celebrations, particularly bachelorette parties, thanks to its lively, festive atmosphere.

Special Mentions and Criticisms

While most reviews are glowing, there’s a note about limited size options for plus sizes at some stores, which could be disappointing for some. Also, the small group size might not appeal to those seeking a broader shopping spree or larger crowds.

The friendly guides, good value, and focus on local businesses seem to make this tour a winner for many who want a relaxed, social shopping experience in Charleston.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

The combination of boutique shopping and wine makes for a laid-back yet engaging experience. The exclusive discounts mean you might find that perfect souvenir or gift at a lower price, adding tangible value. Plus, the mead tasting offers a fun twist for those wanting to try something different from the usual wine or cocktails.

The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the knowledgeable guides elevate the experience with local stories and shop recommendations. The locations are central and accessible, making it a convenient choice for travelers based in downtown Charleston.

This experience truly caters to those who enjoy supporting local businesses, indulging in a bit of luxury, and sharing laughs with friends. It’s a social activity that balances fun, shopping, and tasting, making it ideal for celebrating a special day or simply adding a special touch to your Charleston visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Charleston?
Absolutely. The guide shares insights about the city and its shops, making it a great way to get familiar with Charleston’s retail scene.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, providing plenty of time for shopping, tasting, and socializing without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The $65 fee covers guided shopping, complimentary wine, margaritas at Juanita’s, a champagne toast at The Mercantile, and a mead tasting at Savannah Bee Co. Plus, you’ll receive exclusive discounts at participating shops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking along King Street and visiting shops, it’s best for those comfortable with light walking. Service animals are allowed, but check with the provider for specific mobility accommodations.

What’s the best time of day to take this tour?
Most travelers book this during the day—morning or early afternoon—so they can enjoy shopping and socializing in the daylight.

Are drinks included throughout the tour?
Yes, complimentary wine is served throughout, with margaritas available at Juanita’s and a champagne toast at the end.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While primarily geared towards adults, especially those interested in shopping and tasting, children may join if accompanied by an adult, but note the alcohol service is adult-oriented.

In Closing

The Sip n’ Shop in Charleston offers a lively, intimate way to explore the city’s boutiques while enjoying wine, champagne, and exclusive discounts. It’s more than just shopping—it’s about sharing a memorable experience with friends, discovering local stores, and tasting new beverages.

The guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, help make each stop engaging and relaxed. The inclusion of a mead tasting and champagne toast adds a unique flavor to the tour, elevating a simple shopping trip into a celebratory outing.

While it’s best suited for small groups, especially those celebrating special occasions, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to combine social fun with discovering Charleston’s local retail treasures. If you’re after a laid-back, friendly, and well-curated experience, the Sip n’ Shop tour might just be your next favorite activity in Charleston.