Welcome to Charleston
A hip, port city with a historic downtown
Charleston is a trendy, historic community situated south of the geographical core of South Carolina's coastline on Charleston Harbor. It is the state's largest city and boasts incredible historic sites, world-class restaurants, cobblestone walkways, and several miles of stunning beaches. With a thriving arts scene and historic architecture, Charleston residents enjoy urban living in a peaceful city with a downtown offering panoramic views of the city's stunning steeples.
Charleston comprises various neighborhoods, from downtown Charleston with a highly walkable and bikeable lifestyle and close to all amenities to the stunning Mount Pleasant. Whether living or visiting Charleston, you will enjoy upscale dining spots, boutique shops, excellent schools, unique arts, and historic destinations.
What to Love
- Beautiful year-round weather
- Incredible food
- Plenty of outdoor recreation
- A historical haven
Local Lifestyle
Charleston offers an urban feel with a dash of Southern charm, a strong sense of community, and an unbeatable culinary scene. Residents are highly energetic, friendly, welcoming and enjoy the community's glorious and impeccable art, music, and entertainment. In addition, Charleston's lifestyle strikes a remarkable balance between work and play, with European sensibilities, miles of beaches, diverse housing options, a warm climate, and an attractive cost of living, making it a unique neighborhood.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Charleston has a unique dining, shopping, and entertainment scene, offering fine and casual restaurants, upscale shopping destinations, and memorable nightlife. Most food items in Charleston originate from the bravura Atlantic Ocean, making Delaney Oyster House a great place to discover mouthwatering seafood dishes. The restaurant is set in a historic house with a homey feeling, serving seafood specialties and a raw bar, including wine and cocktails. Another great seafood option is 167 Raw Bar, a New England style Oyster Bar in the heart of historic downtown Charleston. 167 Raw serves up some of the best local seafood and cocktails.
You’ll also want to check out Magnolias along Bay Street for refined takes on traditional Southern cooking in a warm, sophisticated setting. Halls Chophouse can be ideal when craving sizeable cuts of beef and seafood. The steakhouse features elegant surroundings, and residents love it for its Sunday brunch. For unique and tasty American fares, visit FIG, an elegant eatery popular for Southern classics with seasonal ingredients in an upscale-bistro setting.
Downtown Charleston is a hotspot for all your shopping needs, whether you’re looking for home goods, clothing, or gifts you’ll find it on historic King Street. The Charleston City Market along Meeting Street is convenient when shopping for various items like, souvenirs, food and local arts & crafts, like sweetgrass baskets. Or head to The Shops at The Charleston Place for an exclusive collection of sophisticated stores nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston.
Things to Do
With its historic architecture, pristine beaches, scenic views, exciting recurring events and festivals, Charleston offers residents and vacationers multiple attractions and unique adventures.
Looking to take in Charleston's rich history and architecture consider a walking tour of the city. I personally like to start at Waterfront park, a well-known park with water views from the pier, plus a large lawn, walkways & 2 fountains including the famous Pineapple fountain. From there I head over to Rainbow Row, a cluster of 13 pastel-painted Georgian-style rowhouses dating from 1748 to 1845 in the historic district. I then walk along The Battery, a Landmark defensive seawall & promenade, lined by stately antebellum homes & historical monuments. And end the tour by weaving through the streets between South of Broad St, E. Bay St, S. Battery St & King St.
Schools
Charleston has some of the region's best private and public schools serving local families within the community.
- Academic Magnet High School, Grades 9-12
- Charleston School of the Arts, Grades 6-12
- Charleston Charter School for Math and Science, Grades 6-12
- Palmetto Christian Academy, Grades PreK-12
- Buist Academy for Advanced Studies, Grades 1-8
- Ashley Hall, Grades PreK-12
- Porter-Gaud, Grades 1-8
- Charles Towne Montessori School, Grades PreK-6
