Henrietta’s at The Dewberry
Hey guys! Elsa here. My mom and I recently took a mother-daughter trip down to Charleston, South Carolina. So, I wanted to share our hotel experience, where we ate and what we did that made it such a great weekend getaway. Charleston has a special place in my heart, I make my way down about once a year, my Grandmother was born and raised here, my husband and I fell in love with this city, and Nora and I took a girls trip here last year.
Charleston is a city with a rich history, a vibrant culture, amazing restaurants and fun things to do. If you’ve never been, it is also the most beautiful city. The historic streets are lined with palm trees, colorful houses and people smiling from ear to ear. It is also a really cool city. There is a huge food, drink, and arts scene, with many one of a kind shops housing local low-country finds.
It is a city you can do at your own pace, it isn’t particularly large, so it is perfect for a weekend getaway. We stayed at The Dewberry in downtown Charleston. This was my second stay here, the first being last year with Nora. Nora and I felt it was the perfect experience, so when my mom suggested it, I said absolutely. I’ve also stayed at four other Charleston Hotels, and I have to say, The Dewberry really surpassed any any all expectations, even the second time around.
THE DEWBERRY
The Dewberry hotel itself is beautiful. I would say this was a 10/10 lodging experience. They have a wonderful restaurant, spa, lounge and rooftop bar. The rooftop was unfortunately closed, but next time I plan to check it out. It is modern, elegant and mid-century inspired. Their staff is truly unparalleled, the level of sophistication without being intimidating is perfect for feeling both welcomed and special. Aside from the rooms, they have several areas of the hotel you can enjoy.
Their vibrant living room has a bar, and is an easy place to retreat in-between activities. We found it to be a saving grace when there were bouts of rain or we just wanted some down time. It was also a great place for me to blog. They sometimes have live Jazz at night perfect for a nightcap or cocktail. Their signature restaurant, Henrietta’s, was FABULOUS. We had breakfast included in our room rate which was such a win. The food was great, staff was nice, and the restaurant itself is not a typical hotel restaurant. It feels like you’ve gone “off campus” and someplace really special. There is a store / mercantile inside the hotel filled with low country treasures. If you have a day trip planned, you can also use one of their complimentary Volvos. They will also drive you anywhere on the peninsula!
Our room was perfect. Last time I stayed here, Nora and I had the same room but with a King bed. The rooms are beautifully appointed. The interior design team really nailed the mid-century inspired vibe with low country and Charlestonian feels. As an Art Historian, I really appreciated this. The bathroom was my favorite part, I still dream about the shower. Also, they have a signature candle that I still. order. til. this. day. They burn it in the hallways and lobby and it’s DREAMY. The standard rooms have typical views, closets and dressers etc. But, you feel as though you’re stepping into a lap of luxury.
Of the four (five?) hotels I have stayed at in Charleston, this one checks all my boxes. Location is great, rooms are fabulous, service is welcoming, and everything is right there. There are other accommodations that were “nicer” by livability standards, but didn’t deliver the entire package if you will. This is the spot!
THE SPA AT THE DEWBERRY
Out of respect for guests, I did not photograph a lot of this experience. We arrived first thing in the morning and our room was not ready, which I anticipated and planned for! So, we had a spa morning upon arrival. The Spa is absolutely lovely. The treatments are unique to The Dewberry and the facilities are lovely. I had a massage and my mom had a facial. The only downfall to this spa is there is no sauna or amenities aside from the lounge after you are done with your treatment. But, it was a great and rich experience.
ACTIVITIES
When it came to actives, we wanted the emphasis to be on bonding and fun things that provided a balance between the history of the city, and the cool aspects of downtown. So, we took a Candlefish Class! This is the best activity, my husband and I did this on an anniversary trip. It is BYOB and they ship your candles home to you! We also spent a lot of time walking lower King and Cannonborough, just to peruse and take in the views stopping at coffee shops and wine bars in-between. We visited Historic Homes, my favorite is the Nathaniel Russell House and Rainbow Row , the famous colorful row of historic homes!
The Battery, the waterfront South of Broad Street with the most gorgeous historic homes, Waterfront Park where you can see the famous Pineapple Fountain were also destinations we hit. We did a lot of wandering, exploring and eating on this trip, and I think it was absolutely perfect. I also co-hosted a blog event at LOFT with my friend, Emma! It was so fun to get to met her in real life. She has a blog and if you haven’t checked her out yet, you must.
We shopped local businesses and enjoyed all the culture of King street and beyond. We hit up the arts district as well as lower king and areas with unique shops. Ibu Movement cool and luxe artisan clothing and decor in the cutest upstairs shop was my mom’s favorite! Lake Pajamas even if you don’t buy the pajamas, visit the store! It is darling and so welcoming. We loved The Skinny Dip a collective of brands that give major Charleston vibes, we went upstairs to have wine! The Antiques District is also in the lower area of King Street where some of the more local and old school shops are.
EATS
I could eat my way through the city of Charleston in a heartbeat! I am going to just breakdown where we ate and some of my favorite spots.
Breakfast: Miller’s All Day [a breakfast all-day pin worthy spot], Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit [go for a biscuit!], Hentriettas At the Dewberry [ brasserie-inspired setting with the best brunch].
Lunch: The Watch [rooftop dining with American bites and killer views], One Broad [a perfect lunch when strolling rainbow row]. Basic Kitchen [healthy menu with a cool laid back vibe].
Dinner: Parcel 32 [modern low-country southern food with an artful atmosphere] , The Ordinary [Incredible southern seafood with a gorgeous interior and best vibe] Indaco [casual cool dining with yummy Italian fare].
Other spots I love: Peninsula Grill, Chez Nous, Fig, 5 Church, Leon’s Oyster Shop, The Harbinger Cafe. Husk is okay.
