Charleston Waterfront Park
The Basics
For an afternoon picnic or fun with the kids, Waterfront Park is an excellent choice. The 12-acre (4.9-hectare) park is a favorite for its wide-open spaces, neat walking trails, and fantastic views of the Ashley River from Vendue Wharf. The park also has two fountains: one giant pineapple fountain that’s perfect for taking photos, and one smaller splash zone that’s a hit with kids who want to cool off.
Many Charleston walking and carriage tours pass by the park, but because of its central location, Waterfront Park is an easy add-on to your independent sightseeing itinerary too.
Things to Know Before You Go
Charleston Waterfront Park is a lovely spot for all visitors to Charleston, especially families with children.
There isn’t much shade at the park, so be sure to bring sun protection.
Tote swimsuits and towels to make the most of the splash zone.
Public restrooms are available within walking distance of the park.
The park is accessible to wheelchair users and strollers.
How to Get There
Waterfront Park is located on the eastern edge of the Charleston peninsula, at the end of Concord Street. There is street and lot parking nearby, and the park is also a stop on the free downtown DASH shuttle’s green line.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The always-popular Waterfront Park is free and open to the public year-round. Check the weather before you visit to ensure that you can make the most of your time there. If you’re interested in taking photos, consider going at sunset and staying until the fountain lights turn on—it’s worth the wait.
Waterfront Park Tours
If you want to visit Waterfront Park without spending a valuable chunk of your vacation time, consider going on a guided tour. Get an overview of the park’s highlights, snap a photo, and then move on to the city’s bigger-name attractions nearby like the Battery, Rainbow Row, and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon.
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- Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
- Rainbow Row
- St. Philips Church
- Circular Congregational Church
- Gibbes Museum of Art
- Charleston City Market
- Heyward-Washington House
- Edmondston-Alston House
- St. Michael's Church
- The Battery and White Point Garden
- Joseph Manigault House
- Charleston Museum
- Children's Museum of the Lowcountry (CML)
- Aiken-Rhett House
- Aiken-Rhett House