Most Walkable Charleston Neighborhoods
One of the top reasons we love Charleston is the city is just so walkable. In fact, the walkability of downtown affords residents and tourists alike the ability to enjoy a rich and diverse culture. There are many historic points of interest, theaters, boutiques, art galleries, breweries, and much much more to explore. And life here always seem to offer a special local event, festival, or farmer’s market that fosters a sense of community. But that’s not all, there are many surrounding boroughs and enclaves that offer one the ability to ditch the car and get those steps in. Take a peek below at our top picks for most walkable neighborhoods in Charleston.
Downtown:
King Street
Charleston’s King Street neighborhood in the heart of the historic peninsula is a shopper’s paradise. Upscale shops and small, locally owned boutiques line the sidewalks and this lively cultural hub of the city. It’s simply an iconic street and a place to be seen, and with all of the diverse dining and shopping options it makes life here the quintessential urban experience, without being very well, urban. In fact, one of our favorite things about the area is that it still epitomizes the charm that we’ve come to know and love of Charleston. Living here means that there are options for those charming row homes and Charleston singles, but also there’s the additional option for condos that sit above the storefronts that line the famed street. It’s the sure way to be certain that you’ll be in the many happenings and heartbeat of the city.
French Quarter
Charleston’s French Quarter neighborhood in the heart of the historic peninsula is a vibrant enclave in with a charm of the past. A walk around the cobblestone streets that make up this area between Market Street and Waterfront Park, is dominated by many cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. There is a peaceful existence here and one of rich history with centuries-old buildings offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past. We love how you can be minutes away but yet worlds apart.
Harleston Village
Just off of the College of Charleston’s campus lies Historic Harleston Village, with a distinctly academic and stately feel. This area is a beautiful blend of both college students and full-time residents and is lined with quintessential Charleston style homes. Also, with the CofC campus being nearby there is a lively and upbeat environment that always has something going on just around the corner. Also, from here one is just a short walk away from all of the commercial offerings that historic King Street and its shopping district has to offer, making this a central location smack dab in the middle of the peninsula, and one we’re quite fond of if you ask.
Cannonborough | Elliotborough
With Cannon and Spring Streets as the two main thoroughfares, and the Crosstown creating the Northern border, one great thing about this area (aside from the favorable STR status, more on that later), is the easy access on and off the Peninsula. That’s not to bypass all the neighborhood has to offer, which is a vibrant artsy local scene that has brought many eateries and small businesses to town over the past few years, which dot the residential area. Couple this with its intimate side streets and mix of both modern and historic architecture, and you’ve got a top neighborhood in our books. Oh, and back to the Short Term Rental situation, this is the only area that you might just qualify for a coveted permit.
Further Afield
Old Village | Mount Pleasant
This is a spot that exudes a timeless charm that hugs the coastline with Sullivan’s on one side and the Charleston Harbor on the other. It’s idyllic tree-lined streets give a palpable sense of community and whisper stories from the village’s historic past. Life here is extremely laid-back where a mason jar of sweet tea is shared on the front porch with neighbors and residents drive their LSVs and ride their beach cruisers into the little downtown strip more than they drive. And of course their is the iconic Pitt Street Bridge where residents enjoy a stroll after dinner for a beautiful sunset with Charleston in the background.
Sullivan’s Island
Sullivan’s Island truly has a distinct vibe that you won’t find anywhere else, and to be honest, that’s why we feel the Charleston barrier islands are so special. Each one has its own personality straight down to the local businesses and style of homes. Here on Sullivan’s, you are greeted first by the sweeping ocean views and miles of endless beach. It’s beach on one side, that gently winds its way to the Charleston Harbor, while on the other side it’s all about the Intracoastal and Old Village, Mount Pleasant. Life here is lived on the water, and one can certainly see why, but when the sun goes down the cute as a button beach town is the place for gathering with friends at the local cafe or bar. And it’s this distinct coastal living lifestyle that creates an inviting ambiance and a local community feel. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, where nature puts on a show each day at sunrise and sunset, and where you feel at home.
Park Circle | North Charleston
Nestled in the heart of North Charleston, and just minutes from Charleston’s Historic Peninsula, lies the Park Circle Neighborhood. Park Circle is urban living at its finest and offers a lively and artsy vibe with quaint downtown shopping district.
Here you’ll find the iconic park (newly opened and incredible) situated on the grand circle and from which the neighborhood gets its name. You’ll also enjoy cute boutiques and a trendy culinary scene along with many breweries.
Avondale | West Ashley
Located just West of the Ashley, this enclave is just minutes from Downtown Charleston, and yet offers a more suburban environment with many modern conveniences. Here there is a family friendly atmosphere and a plentitude of urban amenities. In fact, this is why some tend to shy away from West Ashley, because unlike many other areas of Charleston it does have less natural beauty in lieu of commercial areas and development.
That being said, this does make an ideal choice for those residents who want the ease of a suburb with access to the historic peninsula. And there are numerous parks and river access, which offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking. Our personal favorite is the West Ashley Greenway, which is a scenic multi-use trail for outdoor recreation and biking.