Historic Downtown Charleston

The quaint, lantern-lit streets and melodic sounds of street musicians are just parts of the inner city’s character, but the Historic Downtown area offers much more than a sophisticated atmosphere. Historic Downtown Charleston is the heart of the city, and it’s easy to see why. Its cobblestone streets are lined with the beautiful homes that boast one-of-a-kind Southern charm, and the entire peninsula seems to transport its visitors and residents to a simpler, more wholesome lifestyle. The homes of downtown Charleston are truly of the city’s character—their large, glamorous porches are perfect for summer lemonade, or for holiday lights. These historic homes have the ability to take one’s breath away, simply by their beauty and elegance.

Fortunately, these stunning residences fit right in to the rest of the city’s aura. Fantastic, award-winning restaurants, breath-taking views of the Charleston harbor, and unique shopping locations draw newcomers to the city year after year. Take a walk around, and you’ll see the constant, passionate movement of our residents, enjoying the natural beauty of places like Marion Square, and Waterfront Park. For eating and drinking there are numerous choices, no matter what you’re in the mood for. Sandwich shops, quick cafes and bistros, and coffee bars are favorites among visitors and locals alike during the day, and at night there is an array of restaurants, all offering their special cuisine, many with ethnic flair. Nightlife in downtown Charleston is also action-packed; there are places for enjoying a quiet cocktail, as well as for dancing the evening away. And, appropriately nicknamed “The Holy City,” downtown Charleston has some of the most historic—and beautiful—churches in the South, many of them original structures. It’s somewhat fitting that both vehicles and horse-drawn carriages flood the streets of Historic Downtown; the atmosphere seamlessly blends the present and the past, allowing residents to enjoy both tradition and progress.