From luscious gardens to waterfront parks, the Charleston area offers many refreshing escapes to immerse yourself in the charming nature of the Lowcountry. Whether you’re looking for a green space under the grand oaks to enjoy a picnic, or a walk with a sunset backdrop and refreshing breeze from the harbor, Charleston has an escape for you. Follow along as we highlight a few of our favorite enchanting parks in the Charleston area.
Hampton Park. This park is bordered by bordered by Hampton Park Terrace, Wagener Terrace, The Citadel and North Central neighborhoods in downtown Charleston and is one of the cities’ largest and oldest parks. Boasting sixty acres of natural beauty, you’ll be delighted by beautiful oak trees and the extensive floral displays such as an old rose collection and seasonal displays planted by the park’s staff and volunteers. Enjoy walking and biking on trails that circulate the entirety of the park. Hampton Park is a charming oasis with a rich history. This park was once part of a grand exposition in the late 19th century and still maintains its historic charm today. When Spring arrives, this is one of the first places on our list to explore and admire the colorful Spring flowers.
Marion Square. Located in the heart of the historic district, Marion Square is a six-and-a-half-acre urban park surrounded by historic buildings and is the home to many monuments. This iconic park is the perfect place to enjoy the bustling city of downtown Charleston, while simultaneously relaxing under the shady trees. During the summer, the square is also the home to a farmers market on Saturdays, and various festivals such as the renowned Spoleto Arts Festival. Since 1913 a tree has been placed in Marion Square for the Christmas season. Bring a picnic, relax on the grass and soak in the charming atmosphere.
Colonial Lake. As Harleston Village’s centerpiece, Colonial Lake stretches from Broad to Calhoun street and Lockwood Drive to King Street, and is one of the most popular parks for afternoon strolls, jogs or bike rides. This palm tree-lined park is a tidal pond with wide walkways and is a special part of many Charlestonian’s lives. Colonial Lake dates back to the 1700s and was once known as Rutledge Street Pond. It was renovated by the Charleston Parks Conservancy in 2016 to include a $5.9 million dollar investment to repair the timeworn seawall, install a more efficient water system, as well as new benches and seating areas. Fun fact – You can actually fish in Colonial Lake when the tide is high – its pipes run from the lake, under the streets and into the Charleston Harbor!
Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. Located at the base of the Ravenel Bridge in Mount Pleasant lies a peaceful and spacious park where you can enjoy the breeze and up-close views of the Charleston Harbor. Known as the “Crown Jewel” of Mount Pleasant, locals and visitors enjoy picnics, fishing, a nautical-themed playground, occasional events and sunset walks on the 1,250-foot pier where you can sit and watch the picturesque sunset while boats pass by. Enjoy ice cream from the River Watch Cafe to top off your visit.
Joe-Riley Waterfront Park. Overlooking the Charleston Harbor on the eastern coast of the peninsula, Waterfront Park was deemed “this generation’s gift to the future” by Mayor Riley. This iconic park is an eight-acre linear park and pier along the harbor’s entry and masterfully combines intimate gardens, spectacular fountains, spacious lawns and walking paths. This has become one of the hottest attractions in Charleston and many visit this park to take a photo in front of the iconic Pineapple Fountain. The park received the 2007 Landmark Award form the American Society of Landscape Architects and the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Exploring Charleston parks allows locals and visitors to create a deeper connection the the Lowcountry’s natural beauty – you’ll be sure to leave refreshed. If you’re looking to move to Charleston to make the Lowcountry lifestyle permanent, get in touch with a William Means agent; they’re Charleston experts and would be happy to share their knowledge with you.
Leave a Reply