Old City Market
(843) 853-8000
Market St
(at Between Meeting Street and East Bay Street)
Charleston,
SC
29401
32.781
-79.93
Neighborhood: South of Broad
What People Are Saying About Old City Market
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Background
The land on which the market sits was donated by a wealthy Charleston family in the early 1800s to be used as a marketplace. The main building, Market Hall, was erected in 1841. Modeled after a Greek temple, the building houses the Daughters of the Confederacy Museum. Behind Market Hall, four open-air buildings span from Meeting Street to East Bay Street, near the waterfront. The market originally sold foodstuffs, including meat, fish and fresh produce grown locally.
The Appeal
Today, more than 100 vendors sell everything from local foods to souvenirs. The kitsch factor runs high--serious shoppers may have better luck on King Street. It's a lively spot, often teeming with tourists and somewhat difficult to navigate at peak hours. The most celebrated residents are the ladies who weave and sell sweet-grass baskets. The craft of basket-weaving, passed down from West African slaves, is considered one of Charleston's most vibrant traditions.
User Reviews
JoAnnJewelry
February 27, 2009
After reading some of these reviews, I just had to say something. The Market Street experience is so worth having. I guess you are always going to find some cranky people and there are always going to be some "too commercial" types of articles. I found the most amazing hair combs that aren't charleston made but I loved them and wear them all the time. The Sweetgrass baskets are so worth the trip and watching the artisians make them is half the fun. The fabulous restaurants and shops on either side of the market are perfect. The whole experience is A+ so don't let anyone talk you out of visiting.
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MAXWILKS
July 24, 2008
My wife and I was in Charleston for 4 days. we injoyed the visit but parking is a problem. I got a $25 parking ticket. I thought it was un called for. If a person comes to your fine town to spend their hard earned money and get a ticket I don't think they will return. Other than that we had a good time.
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lisarjo
June 06, 2008
My family and I visited this museum and found the two ladies running the place to be extremely rude and insulting. My children were interested in the Civil War and wanted to learn about it but the ladies were constantly watching us waiting for our kids to misbehave. I received a cell phone call that was important and was told no cell phones. We had to pay a lot of money for this tour and was very insulted and disappointed. I do not recommend this museum especially with children.
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The Extras:
Planning to take a carriage tour? Most tours start and end at the Old City Market.
