Strolling Through Charleston: Hidden Streets & History -

History buff? Charleston is South Carolina’s oldest city. Cobblestone streets, pastel homes with overflowing window boxes, and the salty breeze from the harbor set the scene for a weekend that feels like a step back in time.

In just a few days, you can explore centuries-old plantations, indulge in fresh Lowcountry cuisine, and wander neighborhoods where history lingers on every corner.

Our a recent road trip we visited the oldest city in Florida, the oldest city in Georgia, and Charleston, the oldest city in South Carolina. Each of them has their own vibe and lots of history.

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Table of Contents

Where is Charleston?

Charleston is a coastal city in South Carolina. It is just under 100 miles south of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and just over 100 miles north of Savannah, Georgia.

Things to do in Charleston: White Point Garden

White Point Garden is a park at the Charleston peninsula where the Ashely and Cooper River meet the Atlantic Ocean. The park has several war monuments and a marker for the pirate Stede Bonnet and his crew. From this park you can walk to see the water and seawall, the Battery.

Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

Old City Jail

Customs House

Rainbow Row

Charleston’s most photographed colorful row houses line Bay Street. These thirteen pastel homes were constructed in the mid 1700′. Originally homes to merchants who had stores on the first level and lived upstairs they are now all privately owned residences.

Alleys & Side Streets

One of my favorite things to do in a city is to wander. Charleston has a pretty alleys throughout downtown.

Unitarian Gateway Walk

Connects King Street and Archdale. This walkway has lush vegetation and flowers. When we visited the hydrangeas were in bloom. This was my favorite due to all the vegetation.

Philadelphia Alley

An alley that connects Queen Street and Cumberland Street. I love the cobblestone path.

It is right next to the Queen Street Play House.

Lodge Alley

The oldest alley in Charleston, Lodge Alley

The Walled City of Charles Town

Just down Bay Street from Rainbow Row is the marker for the Walled City of Charles Town. In the late 1600’s 8-10 foot high walls were built to protect the residents within the settlement.

Market Hall

Charleston City Market

Within the French Quarter of Charleston the City Market has been selling wares since the early 1800’s.

King’s Street

Edmondston Alston House

Angel Oak Tree

About 13 miles from Charleston you can visit the Angel Oak Tree on John’s Island. This southern live oak is a few hundred years old, it stretches 25 feet out.