A Weekend in Charleston, SC with the Kids! Here are 7 Great Ideas

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston, South Carolina, is a fantastic destination for a family weekend getaway. Here are some fun and family-friendly activities to enjoy with your kids:

  1. Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour:
    • Hop aboard a charming horse-drawn carriage and explore the historic streets of Charleston. Learn about the city’s rich past, architecture, and fascinating stories.
    • Age Compatibility: Children to adults (6+ years)
    • Educational Value: 4/5
    • Fun Factor: 4/5
  1. Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise:
    • Embark on a delightful harbor tour by boat. Enjoy scenic views of the Charleston Harbor, historic landmarks, and maybe even catch a beautiful sunset.
    • Duration: 90 minutes
  1. Fort Sumter National Monument:
    • Take a ferry to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Explore the historic site, cannons, and learn about its significance.
  1. Wild Blue Ropes Adventure and Laser Tag Park:
    • Thrill-seekers will love this outdoor adventure park. Climb ropes courses, tackle obstacles, and challenge your capabilities.
    • Perfect for team building, birthday parties, and family outings.
    • Location: 1595 Highland Ave, Charleston, SC 29412
    • Open Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  1. Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry:
    • Engage your kids’ curiosity at this interactive museum. Explore exhibits related to science, art, and play.
    • Location: 25 Ann St, Charleston, SC 29403
    • Open Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  1. South Carolina Aquarium:
    • Dive into an underwater world at the aquarium. Discover marine life, touch stingrays, and learn about conservation efforts.
    • Location: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401
    • Open Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  1. Folly Beach County Park:
    • Head to Folly Beach for some sun, sand, and waves. Build sandcastles, swim, and enjoy a family picnic.

Remember to check the specific hours of operation and any reservation requirements for these attractions. Have a wonderful weekend exploring Charleston with your kids!

South Carolina State Library Announces 2023 Notable State Document Winners

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State Library Announces 2023 Notable State Documents Winners

The South Carolina State Library is pleased to announce the selection of the most notable South Carolina State Documents of 2023. Government documents come in a variety of formats. Winning categories include state agency monographs, serials, and websites or apps. These noteworthy publications call attention to some of the most informative documents released by state agencies in 2023. Winners of the South Carolina Notable State Documents awards are announced in honor of Freedom of Information Day, which occurs annually on March 16. Awards will be presented to the winning agencies and authors in a ceremony to be held at 10 a.m. at the State Library on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. For more information about the awards program, please visit our subject guide.

Nominations for the Notable Documents Awards were submitted throughout the calendar year, with final candidates being judged by a panel of librarians and state employees.

Publications were judged based on their designs, writing styles, and breadth of information. The judges chose a unique group of twelve publications and websites for recognition, including a report on the effects of social isolation on older adults, a lovely annual publication showcasing the state’s agriculture industry, and a newly redesigned website by the agency charged with guiding the development of the arts in our state.

Leesa Aiken, South Carolina State Library director said, “South Carolina state documents provide a wealth of information, statistics, and share a broad range of knowledge about our state. I am pleased that we are able to publicly recognize these important publications and websites as notable documents and it is my hope that all South Carolina state agencies continue to produce high quality documents such as these.”

Monographs (physical or born digital)

Addressing Social Isolation in Older Adults as a Determinant of Health I South Carolina

Department on Aging, South Carolina Institute of Medicine & Public Health

While social isolation finds its way to all ages, this focus centers on the impact it has on older adults in our state. In this report, readers learn about the effect social isolation has on the physical and mental health of older adults. The recommendations in the report are noted as the top areas of concern, and include suggested ways to reduce problems associated with social isolation in our most vulnerable population.

Unbeleafable: A Kid-Friendly, Self-Led Guide to Identifying Trees in Harbison State Forest I South Carolina Forestry Commission

The South Carolina Forestry Commission children’s tree identification guide is designed for families to use while visiting Harbison State Forest to learn more about the basics of tree identification. The guide includes leaf characteristics, types of fruit/flowers, bark characteristics, the difference between hardwoods and softwoods, common tree species found on Harbison, and fun facts from Serrated Sam, the leaf character found on the cover. The guide is intended to be completed alongside an adult with access to a smartphone and directs families to go on a fun tree ID activity to try to identify 10 different tree species.    

South Carolina Strategic Statewide Resilience and Risk Reduction Plan* I South Carolina

Office of Resilience

The South Carolina Office of Resilience is responsible for developing and implementing a

Strategic Statewide Resilience and Risk Reduction Plan (Resilience Plan). This Resilience Plan is intended to serve as a framework to guide state investment in flood mitigation projects and the adoption of programs and policies to protect the people and property of South Carolina from the damage and destruction of extreme weather events. The Plan identifies major flood risks around the state and potential losses that could occur as a result of extreme weather events, and provides guidance on ways communities can better anticipate, absorb, recover and thrive when presented with environmental change and natural hazards.

*Note: This publication must be downloaded to open. Click on the PDF file to download.

Florence-Darlington Technical College Early College Academy Career Pathways I FlorenceDarlington Technical College

This informational booklet describes FDTC’s Early College Academy (ECA) program, an innovative way for high school students to earn both a high school diploma and complete an associate degree in the time it takes to attend high school.  Completing the program allows students quicker entrance into the workforce or entry into a 4-year college with junior status. FDTC’s ECA program requires maturity and dedication, and is academically rigorous, but makes it possible for students to eliminate two college years and accumulated debt.

Come Back to the Land: An Exploration of James and Johns Islands African American Settlement Communities I South Carolina Department of Transportation, New South

Associates

This publication comprises a research study, completed by New South Associates (NSA), of multiple African American Settlement Communities on both James and Johns Islands in Charleston County, South Carolina for the South Carolina Department of Transportation’s (SCDOT) Mark Clark Expressway Expansion Project. This investigation sought to compile and create a “cultural atlas” of the identified communities that the respective communities can use for future cultural heritage preservation.

Oral history interviews were gathered from May through June of 2022. This report brings collected narratives and archival information together with historic images and maps to present a historic context for James and Johns islands. Specific examinations of each settlement community for which information was gathered follow that broader historic context. The report also includes an atlas, both visual and narrative, of identified sites and areas across both islands that are associated with the various settlement communities, as well as a bibliography.

Serials 

Grown in SC* I South Carolina Department of Agriculture

Grown in SC is an annual publication by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. Complete with striking graphics and photography, it is produced to promote and highlight agriculture and agribusiness in South Carolina. This year’s issue features “Ag Facts,” articles on the beekeeping experience, a quail habitat program, flower farming, sweet potato recipes, and much more. 

*Note: This publication must be downloaded to open. Click on the PDF file to download.  

Coastal Heritage I South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium

Established in 1978, the South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium was created to manage and administer the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Sea Grant College Program for the South Carolina and adjacent regions that share a common heritage. The South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium publishes Coastal Heritage, a quarterly publication that covers environmental policy, science, history, and culture.

This issue, from Fall, 2023, features an extensive article on Carolina bays, which are shallow, elliptical depressions found in the unconsolidated sediments throughout the Atlantic Coastal Plain. Some believe they were created by a shower of meteorites. Also included are regular features exploring Consortium related news and happenings around the state.

2022 Annual Report I South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy

The South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy (DCA) completely redesigned its FY22 annual report to more clearly communicate our program operations and overarching legislative duties, as well as to note the achievements and benchmarks we hit during the fiscal year and what we set out to achieve in FY23. 

The DCA began operation on July 1, 2019, and is an independent state agency that examines the care and services that other state agencies provide children. The agency recommends ways to improve the quality of those services through the development and promotion of a broad vision for statewide reform. 

Statistical Profile FY 2021-2022 | South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs This profile contains information on the fiscal year 2021-2022 demographic shifts in the 21st century, economic and employment trends, educational attainment and occupational selection, housing and homeownership, poverty, public assistance, and health insurance coverage, linguistic diversity, ethnic identities, and citizenship in SC’s minority communities, and conclusions and suggestions. The purpose is to help ascertain certain areas where South Carolina’s minority populations have consistently experienced socio-economic deprivations, particularly in educational attainment and homeownership.

Websites

South Carolina State Museum Website: scmuseum.org I South Carolina State Museum The State Museum’s website, rebuilt from the ground up this year with a focus on accessibility, showcases how guests can explore South Carolina’s rich history in-person and online. This new website also features a digital collection database, launched this fall, which allows educators, students, researchers and others to explore the museum’s collection digitally for the first time in its 35-year history. This new feature allows the museum to share more of the over 1.1 million artifacts, artwork, fossils and specimens in its care as only a small portion of their collection is on display in its galleries. Additionally, this robust website offers more opportunities to explore the state (and museum’s) history through podcasts, deeper dive articles and more.

South Carolina Arts Commission Website: southcarolinaarts.com I South Carolina Arts Commission

On June 7, 1967, Governor Robert E. McNair signed legislation that established the South Carolina Arts Commission. For more than 50 years, the agency has worked to build a thriving arts environment that benefits all South Carolinians.

The newly redesigned website features the results of a nearly 18-month process to better represent the work of the Arts Commission and the people it serves. The Commission wanted a look that showed boldness, demanded attention, and was fresh and original. This new brand hints at a vibrant, dynamic team. Special highlights of the site are Arts Daily, which directs users to art events around SC; The Hub, reporting on news happening around the state related to the arts; and a grants directory for artists, organizations, and schools.

South Carolina Secretary of State Website: sos.sc.gov I South Carolina Secretary of State The Office of the Secretary of State is mandated to serve as the state filing office for business corporations, nonprofit corporations, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships and limited liability companies. In addition to business filings, the Secretary of State’s Office examines and files state trademarks, maintains the state notary public database, and issues commissions for elected officials and those appointed by the Governor.

The goal of the Secretary of State’s website is to provide the public with easy access to information and services from the convenience of home or office. This website is designed to serve as a one-stop portal for accessing general information, completing important tasks online, and providing information specifically related to each division. Whether one is a new user who is visiting to learn more about this office and what is done there or a returning visitor who simply needs to complete a filing online, the public is invited to take advantage of this convenient resource.

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About the S.C. State Library

The South Carolina State Library develops, supports, and sustains a thriving statewide community of learners committed to making South Carolina stronger. The Library serves the people of South Carolina by supporting state government and libraries to provide opportunities for learning in a changing environment. It is the primary administrator of federal and state support for the state’s libraries. In 1969, as the result of action by the General Assembly, the State Library Board was redesignated as the South Carolina State Library and assumed responsibility for public library development, library service for state institutions, service for the blind and physically handicapped, and library service to state government agencies. Headquartered in Columbia, S.C., the Library is funded by the state of South Carolina, by the federal government through the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and other sources.  For more information, please visit statelibrary.sc.gov or call 803-734-8666.             

7 Great Charleston, South Carolina activities you can do on those rainy coastal days

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When it’s raining in Charleston, SC, there are still plenty of fun indoor activities to enjoy. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Explore the Charleston Museum: It’s the oldest museum in the United States and offers fascinating exhibits on Charleston’s history, culture, and natural history. You will be part of history as it just celebrated its 250th Anniversary!
  2. Visit the South Carolina Aquarium: Spend a few hours exploring the diverse marine life found in the region. You can see sharks, sea turtles, otters, and many other aquatic creatures. This is wondrous and educational fun for the entire family and situated in the heart of the Charleston Harbor.
  3. Tour the Gibbes Museum of Art: Discover the rich artistic heritage of Charleston through its extensive collection of American art. The museum showcases a variety of mediums and styles.
  4. Take a historic house tour: Charleston is known for its beautifully preserved historic homes. Many offer guided tours, allowing you to step back in time and learn about the city’s architecture and lifestyle. You will never see such elegance and grace!
  5. Escape rooms: Challenge your problem-solving skills by participating in an escape room experience. Gather a group of friends or family and work together to solve puzzles and find your way out within a set time limit. Can you outwit your friends and family?
  6. Enjoy a cooking class or culinary tour: Sign up for a cooking class where you can learn to prepare Lowcountry cuisine. Discover the secrets behind dishes like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup, and savor the flavors of the region. We are in fact one of the top foodie towns in the national!
  7. Visit a trampoline park: Bounce, jump, and flip to your heart’s content at an indoor trampoline park. It’s a great way to burn off some energy and have a blast, regardless of your age. Charleston offers 3 great options to bounce around!
  8. Check out a local brewery or distillery: Charleston has a vibrant craft beer and spirits scene. Take a brewery or distillery tour to learn about the brewing/distilling process and enjoy some tastings.

Remember to check the operating hours and availability of these activities, as they might be subject to change or require reservations. Enjoy your rainy day in Charleston!

Governor McMaster signs permitless firearm carry bill into South Carolina law – Here is what you need to know

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After over a year of heavy debate, the permitless firearm carry is now legal in South Carolina. Governor Henry McMaster on Thursday afternoon, March 7, 2024, signed the bill, which was prefiled in the state House of Representatives in December 2022.

After a joint committee with members of both chambers met Tuesday, that committee’s report was approved by the House later the same day and by the Senate on Wednesday.

Here are some things you need to know about the new law:

  • There are restrictions of where an individual may carry a gun, such as hospitals, doctor’s offices, churches, many government buildings, schools, polling places, detention facilities, post offices, or personal residences without permission.  Some places, such as churches and doctor’s offices, may choose to allow individuals to carry weapons onto the premises.
  • Businesses have the right to label themselves as a gun-free zone.
  • The new law enables individuals 18 and older who are legally allowed to own firearms to carry them, openly or concealed, without requiring training or registration for a permit.
  • Representative Bobby Cox (R-Greenville), the Vice President for Government Affairs at Sig Sauer, a firearms company, was the lead sponsor of the bill.
  • South Carolina becomes the 29th U.S. state with a permitless carry law.
  • Click HERE for the entire history of the legislation.
  • Click HERE for complete legislative language.

5 Must Try Foods When You Visit Charleston, South Carolina

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When you visit Charleston, South Carolina, prepare your taste buds for a delightful culinary adventure. Here are five must-try food items that capture the essence of this charming city:

  1. Carolina BBQ: The secret to Carolina barbecue lies in its tangy sauce—a blend of yellow mustard, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. Head to Rodney Scott’s BBQ on Upper King Street for whole hog ‘cue, spare ribs, pit-cooked chicken, and classic sides like macaroni and cheese, baked beans, and collard greens.
  2. Frogmore Stew (Lowcountry Boil): This South Carolina specialty tastes like summer in a pot. Made with corn, shrimp, crab, potatoes, smoked sausage, onion, and a generous dash of Old Bay seasoning, you can savor it at Bowen’s Island Restaurant.
  3. Shrimp and Grits: A signature Low Country dish, the combination of tender shrimp and savory grits is satisfying day or night. For a classic take, visit Poogan’s Porch on Queen Street.
  4. Raw Oysters: If you’re a seafood lover, head to The Ordinary on Upper King Street. This renovated 1920s bank houses a stunning raw bar where you can enjoy East Coast oysters.
  5. She Crab Soup: Similar to New England lobster bisques, this Holy City classic features crab roe, Atlantic crab, dry sherry, and heavy milk or cream. You can find it at 82 Queen.

Bon appétit! Charleston’s culinary scene awaits you with open arms.

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South Carolina Department of Aging (SCDOA) accepting applications for Geriatric Loan Forgiveness

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Geriatric Loan Forgiveness Program accepting applications

Columbia, SC — The Geriatric Loan Forgiveness Program incentivizes physicians in the fields of geriatrics and geriatric psychiatry to practice medicine in South Carolina by helping to repay their medical school debt. Only physicians who have completed fellowships or are in the process of completing fellowships in geriatrics or geriatric psychiatry are eligible to apply.

Successful applicants must meet certain criteria. The application deadline is April 30, 2024. This program is only for geriatric fellows.

In exchange for a commitment to practice geriatric medicine in South Carolina for at least five years, eligible doctors can compete to receive a $35,000 grant to help repay their medical school debt. Physicians who practice geriatrics may have medical school debt above $250,000.

“South Carolina’s senior population is growing exponentially, and we do not have enough geriatricians to meet this influx of seniors,” South Carolina Department on Aging Director Connie Munn said. “The Geriatric Loan Program was created to bring some of our nation’s most elite practitioners of geriatrics to South Carolina by offering to repay a portion of their medical school debt. Our seniors deserve the best!”

Since its inception in 2005, the Geriatric Loan Forgiveness Program has awarded more than 28 physicians over $840,000 to repay their medical school debt. This program is the first of its kind in the nation.

For more information about the Geriatric Loan Forgiveness Program, contact Aging PSA Help at psahelp@aging.sc.gov.

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For more information on the South Carolina Department on Aging visit https://aging.sc.gov/ and https://www.getcaresc.com/

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Southern Living Magazine names its Top Southern Cities, New Restaurants, BBQ, Travel and More – Congratulations to Vern’s and Charleston, SC!

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TOP SOUTHERN CITIES, NEW RESTAURANTS, BARBECUE JOINTS, TRAVEL STOPS, AND MORE REVEALED

COVER STARS MATTHEW AND CAMILA MCCONAUGHEY SHARE THEIR LOVE OF TEXAS AND A TASTE OF THEIR NEW TEQUILA

NEW YORK and BIRMINGHAM, Ala., March 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Southern Living announces the winners of its eighth annual South’s Best Awards, recognizing readers’ favorite Southern destinations and experiences. For the eighth year in a row, Charleston, South Carolina has been voted the South’s Best City, and for the first time, Wilmington, North Carolina claims the top spot for the South’s Best City on the Rise. In-depth coverage of the winners appears in the April issue of Southern Living, on sale March 22 and on SouthernLiving.com here.

South's Best 2024
South’s Best 2024

This year’s South’s Best Awards survey results reveal the South’s Best Cities on the Rise, plus the Best Cities, Best Small Town in Every State, Best New Restaurants, Best BBQ in Every State, and more. The special double issue’s cover features Matthew and Camila McConaughey talking about family, their connection to Texas, and the creation of their tequila brand, Pantalones.

“From the beaches and charm of Wilmington, North Carolina, our top city on the rise, to the hidden desert gem of Marfa, Texas, this year’s South’s Best Issue celebrates the places and experiences that define our beloved region,” said Sid Evans, Editor in Chief of Southern Living. “We’re thrilled to have Matthew and Camila McConaughey on our cover, whose love of the Lone Star State embodies the spirit of the South’s Best Issue.”

Highlights of Southern Living’s 2024 South’s Best Awards survey results are as follows:

South’s Best Cities – Top 10
1. Charleston, SC

2. Savannah, GA
3. Nashville, TN
4. New Orleans, LA
5. Asheville, NC
6. Greenville, SC
7. Atlanta, GA
8. Austin, TX
9. Raleigh, NC
10. Orlando, FL
See the full list here.

South’s Best Cities on the Rise – Top 10
1. Wilmington, NC
2. Franklin, TN
3. Spartanburg, SC
4. Huntsville, AL
5. Columbia, SC
6. New Braunfels, TX
7. Bowling Green, KY
8. Cary, NC
9. Alpharetta, GA
10. Bentonville, AR
See the full list here.

Best New Restaurants – Winner in Each State
Alabama: 1856 (Auburn)
Arkansas: Nosh Nola (Bentonville)
Florida: Norman’s (Orlando)
Georgia: Brochu’s Family Tradition (Savannah)
Kentucky: House of Marigold (Louisville)
Louisiana: Miss Shirley’s Chinese Restaurant (New Orleans)
Maryland: Little Donna’s (Baltimore)
Mississippi: Sambou’s African Kitchen (Jackson)
North Carolina: Salted Melon (Charlotte)
Oklahoma: Nātv (Broken Arrow)
South Carolina: Vern’s (Charleston)
Tennessee: The Pink Hermit (Nashville)
Texas: Veracruz Fonda (Austin)
Virginia: Birdie’s (Richmond)
West Virginia: The Vandalia Co. (Charleston)

For methodology and more results from Southern Living South’s Best 2024 survey, including the full lists in every category, visit SouthernLiving.com.

ABOUT SOUTHERN LIVING
Southern Living celebrates the essence of life in the South, covering the best in Southern food, homes, gardens and travel. Southern Living connects consumers to the region’s rich culture through a robust multi-platform presence, including print, digital and social as well as its Biscuits & Jam podcast and licensing partnerships. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Southern Living is part of the Dotdash Meredith publishing family.

SOURCE Dotdash Meredith

Full Swing Ahead:  Get to Know 17 Great Golf Courses in Charleston, SC and Beyond!

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By Mark A. Leon

Here’s a list of golf courses in Charleston County, South Carolina and beyond!

Charleston National Country Club:

  • Located in Mount Pleasant, this course offers picturesque views and a challenging layout.

Cougar Point (Kiawah Island Golf Resort):

  • Situated on Kiawah Island, this course boasts stunning coastal scenery.

Dunes West Golf Club:

  • A well-maintained course with water features and scenic marshland.

Legend Oaks Golf & Tennis Club (Summerville):

  • A beautiful course surrounded by oak trees and natural beauty.

Oak Point (Kiawah Island Golf Resort):

  • Another gem on Kiawah Island, known for its challenging holes.

Osprey Point (Kiawah Island Golf Resort):

  • Offers a mix of marsh views and wooded areas.

Patriots Point Links on Charleston Harbor:

  • Enjoy harbor views while playing this course in Mount Pleasant.

Pine Forest Country Club (Summerville):

  • A friendly course with a variety of holes.

RiverTowne Country Club:

  • Offers a challenging layout and scenic vistas.

Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club:

  • A public course in Charleston with a mix of open fairways and tree-lined holes.

The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation (Summerville):

  • Features well-designed holes and friendly staff.

The Links at Stono Ferry (Hollywood):

  • Known for its challenging island green on the 18th hole.

The Ocean Course (Kiawah Island Golf Resort):

  • A world-renowned course with oceanfront holes.

The Plantation Course at Edisto (Edisto Beach):

  • A scenic course on Edisto Island.

Turtle Point (Kiawah Island Golf Resort):

  • Offers challenging play and beautiful surroundings.

Wild Dunes Resort Harbor Course (Isle of Palms):

  • A resort course with water views.

Wild Dunes Resort Links Course (Isle of Palms):

  • A classic seaside course with ocean breezes.

Enjoy your golfing adventures in the Lowcountry! 

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Important Things to Remember as you Plan Your Summer Trip to Charleston, South Carolina

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If you’re planning a summer vacation to Charleston, South Carolina, here are some important things to keep in mind:

  • Sunset Water Cruises: As the sun begins to set, consider hopping on one of Charleston’s charter boats for breathtaking sunset views. Sip a cocktail, enjoy live music, and take in the entire cityscape from the harbor. The Schooner Pride Sailing is a great option.
  • Farmers Markets: Charleston boasts an array of fresh and local farmers markets. Throughout the week, you’ll find different markets with fresh produce and crafts from local vendors. Check out the various market locations and times.
  • Baseball with the RiverDogs: Head to Joe Riley Stadium on the banks of the Ashley River for a minor league baseball game with the Charleston RiverDogs. Grab some boiled peanuts (a Southern delicacy), a hot dog, or enjoy $1 beer on beer night. It’s a family-friendly option with reasonably priced tickets.
  • Weekend Brunch: In Charleston, brunch isn’t just a meal—it’s a way of life! Look forward to bottomless mimosas at one of the city’s many brunch hotspots. Whether you crave shrimp and grits or a stack of pancakes, Charleston has it all. Some restaurants even serve brunch all day, every day.
  • Hit the Beaches: Charleston’s coastline offers beautiful beaches. Consider visiting Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, or Sullivan’s Island for sun, sand, and ocean breezes.
  • Downtown Biking: Rent a bike and explore the historic downtown area. Pedal along cobblestone streets, admire the architecture, and discover hidden gems.
  • Brewery Hopping: Charleston has a thriving craft beer scene. Visit local breweries, sample unique brews, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
  • Walking Tours: Join guided walking tours to learn about Charleston’s rich history, haunted spots, or culinary delights. Walking tours provide fascinating insights into the city’s past and present.
  • The View from Above: For a panoramic view of Charleston, consider visiting the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Walk or bike across this iconic cable-stayed bridge and take in the stunning vistas of the city, harbor, and surrounding areas.

Remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and embrace the Southern hospitality as you explore this charming city during your summer vacation! 

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Eggo House of Pancakes is Here: A Literal “Pancake House” You Can Stay in Gatlinburg, TN

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In celebration of National Pancake Day, the brand best known for waffles unveils a one-of-a-kind rental propertylarger-than-life stack of flapjacksbookable exclusively on HomeToGo.com 

CHICAGO, Feb. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Wake up and smell the pancakes! From the brand whose pancakes pack the same punch as their iconic waffles, comes this humble ab-ode to flapjacks. Eggo® is celebrating its other favorite breakfast staple with the ultimate Eggo experience in honor of National Pancake Day on Feb. 28.

You can now book the first-ever Eggo House of Pancakes, a literal “pancake house” complete with a stick-of-butter-shaped chimney and breakfast-inspired decor, available for rent exclusively on HomeToGo. It’s here just in time for spring break to rescue families and fans from the chaos that comes with planning a vacation for the whole crew.

Located in the Pancake Capital of the South – Gatlinburg, Tenn. – fans will soon be able to book a unique stay at the Eggo House of Pancakes and enjoy this short-stack-shaped home-away-from-home in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Flapjack-loving fans and families visiting this unique vacation destination will be transported into a pancake paradise from the moment they step inside. Breathe in the scent of sweet syrup-infused mountain air. Get cozy in the fluffy pancake beds and bean bag chairs. Toast up Eggo Mini Pancake s’mores at the fire pit overlooking the Smokies. Pour it on thick at the maple syrup fountain. Dive into game night in the basement gameroom, complete with an Eggo pancake-fied pool table and more.

The best part? Parents can actually relax because vacationing here is easy, from start to finish. First, HomeToGo’s seamless booking process ensures your pancake-filled vacation begins effortlessly. Then, Eggo’s array of products ensure you don’t have to worry about breakfast once you’re there.

That’s right. We’ve packed the freezer full of Eggo pancakes for chaos-free mornings throughout your stay. Expertly crafted and irresistibly fluffy, Eggo pancakes are a convenient, ready-in-30-seconds breakfast classic that come in a variety of flavors and sizes: Buttermilk, Blueberry, Chocolatey Chip, Minis & Chocolatey Chip Minis. All you need is a microwave…and butter and syrup. 

“Eggo and waffles are an iconic combination, so much so that fans might forget about our pancakes. That’s why we’re flipping our focus with this unexpected experience that celebrates Eggo pancakes as a breakfast go-to that’s equally good at making parents’ lives easier and making breakfast delicious,” said Joe Beauprez, Senior Director of Marketing for Frozen Foods at Kellanova. “Plus, we know that planning a family vacation can be chaotic, so we’re helping parents check one more thing off their to-do list for spring break season with this deliciously fun house.”

The Eggo House of Pancakes will be exclusively listed on HomeToGo.com, a vacation rental marketplace specializing in making incredible homes easily accessible to everyone. According to HomeToGo data, Gatlinburg not only tops the charts as the most-searched destination in Tennessee, but also ranks as one of the top ten most searched destinations in the entire U.S., making it the perfect pancake haven for this mouthwatering collaboration.

“At HomeToGo, we’re on a mission to make vacation planning as delightful as the trips themselves. And, we love pancakes. That’s why we are thrilled to partner with Eggo to bring their House of Pancakes to fans of unique vacation rentals,” said Danielle Finch, Director of Customer Experience at HomeToGo. “We look forward to inspiring adventure-seeking families to embark on unforgettable journeys, all while showcasing the simplicity of booking their dream stays using HomeToGo. We believe booking a vacation rental should be as easy as a pancake breakfast with Eggo: without any chaos and full of fun.” 

HOW TO BOOK YOUR STACKED STAY

Families and fans can request to book one of four different three-night stays at the Eggo House of Pancakes beginning on National Pancake Day, Feb. 28, at the chaos-solving cost of $0 a night, by visiting www.hometogo.com/EggoHouseofPancakes. And yes, you can bring the whole crew, as the House accommodates up to 8 guests.

Set your alarms! Bookings will be available throughout the month of March. The first weekend opens for booking on National Pancake Day (2/28 at 12 PM EST) and the rest will open on Mondays at 12 PM EST on a rolling basis through Monday, March 18.* Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from the Eggo House of Pancakes. See below for exact booking dates and openings.

Looking for more ways to L’Eggo with Eggo? Fans can find their favorite Eggo pancakes in freezer aisles nationwide. Plus, check us out on TikTokInstagramFacebook or visit leggowitheggo.com for all the latest Eggo news.

*The four 3-night stays are not a contest. The stays will be available for booking as follows:

  • Wednesday, Feb. 28: March 7-10 open for booking
  • Monday, March 4: March 14-17 open for booking
  • Monday, March 11: March 21-24 open for booking
  • Monday, March 18: March 28-31 open for booking

About Kellanova 

Kellanova (NYSE: K) is a leader in global snacking, international cereal and noodles, and North America frozen foods with a legacy stretching back more than 100 years. Powered by differentiated brands including Pringles®, Cheez-It®, Pop-Tarts®, Kellogg’s® Rice Krispies Treats®, RXBAR®, Eggo®, MorningStar Farms®, Special K®, Coco Pops®,and more, Kellanova’s vision is to become the world’s best-performing snacks-led powerhouse, unleashing the full potential of our differentiated brands and our passionate people. Our net sales for 2023 were $13 billion.

At Kellanova, our purpose is to create better days and ensure everyone has a seat at the table through our trusted food brands. We are committed to promoting sustainable and equitable food access by tackling the crossroads of hunger, sustainability, wellbeing, and equity, diversity & inclusion. Our goal is to create Better Days for 4 billion people by the end of 2030 (from a 2015 baseline). For more detailed information about our commitments, our approach to achieving these goals, and methodology, please visit our website at https://www.kellanova.com.

About HomeToGo

HomeToGo is the SaaS-enabled marketplace with the world’s largest selection of vacation rentals, listing millions of offers from thousands of trusted partners. From vacation homes, cabins, beach houses, apartments, condos, house boats, castles, farm stays and everything in between, HomeToGo combines price, destination, dates and amenities to find the perfect accommodation for any trip worldwide.

Founded in 2014, HomeToGo operates local apps & websites in 25 countries across Europe, North America, South America, Australia and Asia-Pacific. HomeToGo also operates brands such as Agriturismo.it, AMIVAC, Casamundo, CaseVacanza.it, e-domizil, EscapadaRural, Tripping.com and Wimdu. To learn more, visit www.hometogo.com or download the HomeToGo app.

SOURCE Kellanova