There are many places in Charleston that steal our breath away, but perhaps none more so than the parks, beaches, and historic sites that abound in the city. Regardless of the time of year, a trip to The Battery or a seaside meal on Sullivan’s Island can make any day memorable.

If you’re craving a peaceful day in Charleston’s open air, check out these scenic venues for your next outing:

  • The Battery: Famous for its' stately antebellum homes, The Battery is a landmark defensive seawall and promenade in Charleston. It stretches along the lower shores of the Charleston peninsula, bordered by the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, which meet here to form Charleston harbor. Visible from the Cooper River side and the point, is Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, the World War II aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10), and Sullivan’s Island. Take a pleasant stroll along the promenade, and you can almost feel the centuries of history that resonate throughout the peninsula.
  • Waterfront Park: Along the Cooper River, you’ll find Waterfront Park, which received the 2007 Landmark Award from the American Society of Landscape Architects and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This award “recognizes a distinguished landscape architecture project completed between 15 and 50 years ago that retains its original design integrity and contributes significantly to the public realm of the community in which it is located.” Enjoy a relaxing walk along the pier, and be sure to check out the incredible pineapple water fountain!
  • Sullivan’s Island: If you’re looking for a seaside venue, you’ve come to the right place. Sullivan's Island is one of the most relaxing and family-friendly beaches on South Carolina’s coast. Year-round, visitors enjoy the island’s tranquil beaches, seaside neighborhoods, and waterfront dining venues.

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site: On a marshy point off of the Ashley River, you’ll find Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. This is the very place where a group of English settlers landed in 1670 and established what would become the birthplace of the Carolinas colony. Charles Towne Landing depicts life in Colonial Charleston through interpretive rangers in 17th century dress, a self-guided history trail with an audio tour, and in the interactive museum in the Visitors Center. Take the whole family and tour the Adventure, Charleston’s only 17th-century replica sailing ship. You can also see cannons fired or take a peek at otters, bears, and bison at the Animal Forest natural habitat zoo. If you prefer a more low-key day, the grounds include 80 acres of gardens, with an elegant live oak alley—the perfect place to be alone with your thoughts.

Where do you go in Charleston for a scenic stroll?