Aside from the food, architecture and southern charm, Charleston has a plethora of amazing outdoor spaces to enjoy. We try to “go on an adventure” at least once a week to experience this great city we call home. These are a few of our favorite FREE adventures, AKA walks!
Pitt Street Bridge, Old Village Mount Pleasant
I always feel like I’m on vacation when we head to Pitt Street. It’s crowded on the weekends, but fairly empty during the week – which is perfect for energetic toddlers. The wide open space is great to let them run, however keep a close eye on them by the railings.
Spread out a picnic blanket on the grass or stake your claim on one of the many park benches. If you’re up to it, you can even go crabbing off the old bridge!
Shem Creek Park
Start by the park pavilion and hop on the boardwalk. It’s a good 15 minute walk to get to the end, with plenty of areas to stop and point out wildlife, the “big bridge” (Arthur Ravenel), and count the kayaks headed out on a tour. At the end, you can chat with the fisherman and maybe even catch a glimpse of a container ship cruising by. Take a different boardwalk back up along the creek to check out the shrimp boats and pelicans.
The Shem Creek Park boardwalks are like a bowling lane with bumpers. The railings are at the perfect heights to keep them fully contained while they run with a small taste of freedom.
End your walk at Mount Pleasant Seafood to pick up some local Charleston shrimp for dinner. Can’t beat it!
Downtown Charleston
The Holy City hides a photo worthy scene around every corner. While mom and dad enjoy the architecture and history, little ones will enjoy hunting for tour buses and horse carriages. Stop at every window box to {snap a picture} and point out the different colors of flowers. Make learning fun!
Obviously every street is worth walking, but below is an easy route for a 45 minute adventure. With the bustle of the city, this may be a better stroller ride walk.
Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park
Like Shem Creek, the Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park is perfect for your water/boat loving kiddos! Take a family stroll down the pier to watch the boats go by – especially when its a massive container ship passing right in front of you!
If your little ones are older, the pier shop has all the gear you need to try your hand at fishing.
And of course, the playground. Sitting under the shade of the Ravenel Bridge, the playground is a mini replica. Doesn’t get more Charleston than that!
Daniel Island Pier
For a bit slower pace, take to your tot to the Daniel Island Pier. There is a small park where they can run around a map of the Charleston Harbor.
Afterwards, a walk down the path along the water feels like a stroll through a tropical island. The trees, the light shining through, the sounds of the waves hitting the shore. Sure the walk is meant to spark delight in your little one, but chances are the getting out in nature will speak straight to your heart, too.
Take time to stop and…
Wherever you walk or whatever encourages your toddler to stop and take notice – actually stop and take notice. As their little brains develop they are constantly finding new objects and recognizing familiar favorites. Your intentional interest in their interest will encourage them to keep exploring and taking mom and dad along for the ride.
