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Located at the southern end of the Charleston Peninsula where the Cooper and Ashley Rivers meet, this rectangular park is a historic landmark. During the American Revolution and War of 1812, it was a fort site and called Oyster Point because of the mounds of bleached oysters created by the Native American who had occupied the area. In 1837, it became a public garden. During the Civil War, it became known as the Battery, where fortifications were established. Today the beautiful park features oak trees, a gazebo bandstand, cannons and memorials.
Charles Towne Landing is the site of the first South Carolina permanent English settlement. With a history dating back to 1670, the 80 acres of this park have become a living museum, featuring historical attractions, educational activities and plenty of outdoor spaces to explore. There's a visitor center that introduces kids and adults to life in colonial times. Experience hands-on activities and go on a self-guided tour of the area. Visit the Animal Forest to see species that the settlers encountered, like bears and pumas. Special events are frequent, including live cannon firings and musket demonstrations. Bring a lunch or purchase food from one of the vendors onsite.
A 643-acre nature and recreation park located along the Stono River marsh, James Island County Park offers miles of walking, hiking, skating and bike trails; a campground with 124 sites and ten cottages; a seasonal water park; kayak and canoe rentals; and saltwater fishing and crabbing. There are also picnic grounds, a climbing wall and playgrounds. Annual events such as the Holiday of Lights, concerts, festivals, movies and kayak and wall competitions are held here. Facilities for private events are available for rent.
Built in the late 1700s by the South Carolina Jockey Club (the first jockey club in the United States), this lovely park was once the center of fabled "Race Week", held every February as one of Charleston's grandest social events. Originally called Washington Racecourse, the oval shape of the race course can still be seen today amidst colorful landscaped gardens, bridges, picnic areas, playground, walking trails, a pond, and a fountain. In 1901 this was the site of the magnificent West Indian Exposition—the bandstand pavilion remains from that event. It's a hidden gem of the city.
This amazing stadium is the home of the RiverDogs, Charleston's own minor league baseball team. It was named after avid baseball fan and former mayor of Charleston, the Honorable Joseph P Riley, Junior. Located on the Citadel, and affectionately called 'The Joe', this state-of-the-art baseball venue can seat 6000. It offers a variety of delicious ball park food to enjoy while you take in a great game. Check website for events, times and ticket information.
Smythe Park is a quiet park in an upscale neighborhood of Daniel island. It features several walkways around the large lake, where you can relax and unwind with a nice stroll. There are also picnic table and a fun playground for the kids, which make this park a great place to spend a day with family.
The Cooper Rive Bridge (officially known as the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge) connects Downtown Charleston with Mount Pleasant. Along the bridge's 1,546 feet (471 m) span, there are two separate lanes for running and biking. This is the perfect place to get some great exercise while looking over the beautiful harbor that the bridge crosses.
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