Charleston: King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks

Getting a taste of Charleston’s vibrant shopping scene while enjoying drinks and exclusive discounts sounds like a win, right? That’s exactly what the King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks promises. It’s a two-hour, guided walk through one of the city’s most iconic streets, packed with boutique stops, sips of champagne and wine, and special deals that make browsing even more tempting. With a solid 4.5-star rating based on just two reviews, it’s clear that this experience hits the right notes for many.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the pleasures of retail therapy with a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who enjoy exploring local shops with a little bubbly in hand. One thing to keep in mind: the price tag of $65 per person offers good value for a curated shopping experience with drinks and discounts included. However, the relatively short duration of only two hours means it’s best suited for a quick, fun peek rather than an all-day spree. This tour appeals most to visitors interested in boutique shopping, lively social outings, and that touch of Southern charm.

Key Points

• Ideal for Shopaholics: Focuses on boutique shopping along Charleston’s famous King Street.
• Exclusive Discounts: Enjoy 10-20% off at participating shops, adding value to your purchases.
• Relaxed, Social Atmosphere: Sip champagne, wine, or margaritas while browsing.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Myia are praised for their energy and knowledge.
• Convenient & Accessible: Short, 2-hour walk that’s wheelchair friendly and easy to fit into any schedule.
• Great Photo Opportunities: The tour concludes at Kendra Scott, perfect for selfies and capturing memories.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary: What’s Included

This tour kicks off inside the Restoration Hotel at the Mercantile Boutique, where your guide will be waiting beside the elevator. This starting point is conveniently located in a central spot, making it easy to find and access. From there, it’s a leisurely walk along King Street, a hub of Charleston’s shopping scene, lined with an eclectic mix of boutiques, trendy shops, and local brands.

The first stop is Juanitas Nacho Royale, a Charleston staple famous for its margaritas, chips, and salsa. This initial tasting sets a fun, lively tone, and offers a chance for guests to settle in with a drink before hitting the shops. As you sip, your guide will introduce the shopping plan, highlighting some of the best boutiques to visit.

Throughout the tour, you’ll visit several local boutiques. These are carefully chosen for their appeal and uniqueness, giving you a taste of Charleston’s style. Expect a mix of trendy fashion, jewelry, home décor, and specialty shops. The guides are known for their energy and friendliness—one reviewer noted that Myia made the experience memorable with her engaging personality and solid knowledge about the city and shopping scene.

The Shopping: Boutique Highlights and Exclusive Deals

Each shop offers discounts of 10-20%, making it worthwhile to browse and purchase. These are not just perfunctory discounts but real savings that can add up, especially when you find something you love. The boutique atmosphere is intimate, allowing for personalized service and recommendations from shop owners.

The tour wraps up at Kendra Scott, a popular jewelry brand, where guests will enjoy a champagne toast. This is a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to celebrate your shopping success. The guides often share interesting insights about Charleston’s architecture and history, adding a layer of cultural context to your shopping stroll.

Drinks & Social Vibe

One of the most talked-about aspects is the complimentary drinks. From champagne and wine to margaritas, the atmosphere is relaxed and convivial. It’s a fun way to enjoy shopping without the typical rush, making the entire experience feel more like a social outing than just a retail tour.

Reviewers like Erica praised guide Myia’s energetic and knowledgeable approach, which kept the group lively and informed. Barbara added that the tour felt very personal, highlighting how the guides’ personalities make a difference.

Practical Details & Accessibility

The tour lasts approximately two hours, which is perfect for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing. The meeting point is inside the Mercantile Boutique at the Restoration Hotel, a central and easy-to-find location. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can participate.

All you need to bring are comfortable shoes and your driver’s license—both practical for a walk through shops and for checking into any stores that might require ID for alcohol or age verification.

Price and Value

At $65 per person, this tour offers a respectable value considering the inclusions: multiple drinks, exclusive discounts, and a guided experience through some of Charleston’s most fashionable spots. It’s notably an efficient way to combine shopping, socializing, and sightseeing in a brief window. For shopaholics and casual browsers alike, the value is clear—especially when discounts are factored in.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for visitors who want a brief, lively introduction to Charleston’s shopping scene with the added bonus of drinks and discounts. It’s perfect for those who enjoy social outings, boutique shopping, and picturesque city walks. Because it’s only two hours, it suits travelers who prefer a quick, engaging activity rather than a full-day tour. It’s also a good choice for couples, groups, or solo travelers looking to meet others in a friendly, relaxed environment.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Engaging, energetic guides like Myia, who make the experience fun and informative
• Exclusive discounts that enhance the shopping experience
• Complimentary drinks add a celebratory feel
• Convenient, central meeting point inside a well-known hotel
• Beautiful photo opportunities at the tour’s end at Kendra Scott
• Wheelchair accessible

Cons

• The short duration might leave some wanting more time to browse
• Not a full day of shopping; ideal for a quick peek rather than an all-day spree
• Limited reviews suggest it’s still a niche experience, so it might vary depending on guide and group dynamics

Final Thoughts

This Charleston King Street Shopping Tour with Drinks offers a lively and stylish way to explore one of the city’s most famous shopping districts. It combines the joy of boutique shopping with the relaxed atmosphere of enjoying drinks and exclusive discounts. Its compact two-hour format makes it perfect for travelers who want a taste of Charleston’s local style without dedicating an entire day.

The personal touch provided by guides like Myia, along with the appealing mix of shopping, socializing, and sightseeing, makes this tour a memorable addition to your Charleston itinerary. Whether you’re a fashion lover, a casual shopper, or someone looking to meet fellow travelers, this experience delivers a fun, authentic slice of Southern charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While the tour includes alcohol, most shops are suitable for all ages. Participants must present a driver’s license, but the focus is primarily on shopping and socializing.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick, enjoyable activity that can fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Where does the tour start?
It begins inside the Restoration Hotel at the Mercantile Boutique, located beside the elevator—central and easy to find.

Are the shops accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests.

What drinks are served?
Guests can enjoy champagne, wine, or margaritas, depending on availability and preferences.

How much discount can I expect?
Each boutique offers 10-20% off, adding good value to your purchases.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility.

Is this tour good for groups?
Absolutely, the relaxed, social nature of the tour makes it great for groups, couples, or solo travelers looking to connect.

This tour is a lively, boutique-focused way to get a taste of Charleston’s shopping scene with a friendly, social twist. Whether you’re after exclusive discounts, a fun atmosphere, or simply to explore King Street in style, it’s worth considering as part of your Charleston adventure.