7 Must Visit Parks in Charleston, SC

It's easy to forget the areas that nature offers those visiting Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston's gentle charm, meticulously maintained architecture, shopping, and dining have become so well known. Many large parks are located along Charleston's peninsula, featuring water features, lush plant life, and statues. But there are also many hidden gems for those who want to escape the bustle of the city center.

Also, there are many sites outside of the city. Disc golf, cultural festivals, kayaking, and social events are just a few of the activities available at local Charleston parks. A space like this can never bore you. Regardless of what you're looking for, a park is sure to satisfy. 14 of the area's best restaurants are listed below.

Joe Riley Waterfront Park

Located along Charleston's downtown waterfront, Joe Riley Waterfront Park is the perfect example of former Mayor Joe Riley's vision. In 1990, eight months after Hurricane Hugo ravaged the South Carolina coast, Riley dedicated the new office he held for 41 years. Several years ago when he left office, he renamed the park after him.

If you don't want to take all the equipment you would want to take to the beach with you, then the Pineapple Fountain and Vendue Fountain are ideal for you. A number of benches are grouped together in anticipation of spirited conversations. In Joe Riley's elegant words, "this park serves as a cathedral of the stars, a chapel to the wind, a temple to the sun, of the stars" during the dedication in 1990. 

Exploring Waterfront Park is possible due to its strategic location. There are a few art hotspots nearby, such as City Gallery. The Vendue hotel's rooftop bar is also a great place to enjoy happy hour.

The Battery

Located on the southernmost tip of the downtown peninsula, the fortified seawall, referred to as 'The Battery' by official travel guides, dates back to the Revolutionary War. It's a great way to get some fresh air on a hot day. Sullivan's Island lighthouse, Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie, Castle Pinckney, and the USS Yorktown can be seen from the promenade.

White Point Garden, situated between Murray Boulevard and East Battery, also contains wartime relics. Cannons and statues commemorating the Civil War dot the area. A large gazebo and rows of oak trees are perfect locations for engagement photos. The South Battery Street neighbourhood is crossed by stately antebellum mansions. In essence, there are no bad angles in this park.

Colonial Lake Park

A tidal pond surrounded by wide, paved walkways, Colonial Lake is located in the heart of Harleston Village. You'll always see people here exercising regardless of how hot it is outside. Benches shaded by water oaks are available for those who feel less active. A few fishermen find their way here when the tide is high, looking for mullet or shrimp.

While you catch up with an old friend across Ashley Avenue, your kids can be active at the Moultrie Playground across the street. After that you can enjoy your coffee or some homemade ice cream from Off Track.

Cannon Park

There's not much to Cannon Park - it's located next to a Walgreens pharmacy - but it's on the map. The downtown hospital district lies across Calhoun Street, which may explain why medical staff might soak up some Vitamin D during a break between shifts. In addition, relatives of patients can take a break from hospital life. Alternatively, residents may walk their dogs briskly. Break rooms are outdoor versions of indoor ones. 

There is no denying the charm of this green area. Under the shade of the trees is some playground equipment. The property on which Cannon Park now stands served several purposes before the city council leased the buildings to College of Charleston as a museum. Only four Corinthian columns remain of the 1981 fire which destroyed the building. Near the park are several pastel-colored historic homes, such as the Rutledge Victorian Guest House (which is said to be haunted by a girl). Make a midday break from your busy schedule with a wrap or a smoothie from Brown Dog Deli.

Marion Square

King Street and Calhoun Street intersect here, resulting in 6.5 acres of greenspace. It's a situation similar to the cool kids' table at the school cafeteria. Sunbathe here on warm days if you are a student from the nearby College of Charleston. The Wine and Food Festival and Spoleto are just two of the big events that take place here. Furthermore, throughout April and November, the city farmers market is a top event. A contentious John C. Calhoun statue atop Charleston City Hall's bird's-eye perch was removed from the square last summer, and within 24 hours Charleston City Council did so.

Within a few blocks of here are some of the city's best restaurants and bars. Children's Museums of the Lowcountry offers innovative interactive programs and summer camps that combine learning with fun. Alternatively, Bangkok Lounge has karaoke seven nights a week in a hole-in-the-wall. Upper Deck (also known as Bangkok) used to be a grimier, but still beloved hole-in-the-wall with Sunday-night karaoke.

Folly Beach County Park

If you'd prefer to spend a few dollars versus parking on the street at the other end of the island, this park at the western tip of Folly Beach may be that solution. The price of admission varies depending on the season; those coming by bicycle or foot pay nothing. Likewise, beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent with photo identification.

Folly Beach County Park has several amenities, including beach access wheelchairs, lifeguards, dressing areas, and snack bars. In the public Pelican Watch Pavilion, visitors can take in a view of "The Edge of America" from the observation deck and rent the space for events. It is a great location for the license plate game because many visitors from out of state come here. The day at the beach is easy and enjoyable for the whole family.

James Island County Park

The Charleston County parks have more acreage and offer more programs once you leave the downtown peninsula. It offers crabbing in salt water, a waterpark, bike rentals, watercraft rentals, disc golf, and camping over 643 acres. When you need a break and a refill, there are paved trails and picnic areas with grills and tables.

In this park, the meadows host numerous events, such as the Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series and the Lowcountry Cajun Festival. The holiday festival of lights has been a long-running tradition here as well. There are plenty of activities to choose from at this park, and at $2 per head, it's a better value than most other local parks.

Whether you are just visiting Charleston or making a permanent move to the area, there are a lot of great amenities to enjoy. The parks scattered throughout Charleston offer a great source of entertainment and recreation for residents and guests alike. If you are planning a move to the area in the near future, consider hiring a team of professional movers in Charleston to help lighten your load and help you settle into your new home sooner. If you are looking for a reputable team of local movers, Miracle Movers of Charleston is a great choice, they make light work of your move while also taking the time to make sure that all of your belongings are handled professionally. When you work with movers, you will be moved in and ready to explore the parks of Charleston in no time.