Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is a city of rich history and picturesque hidden gems. Whether you're a local, hopping off a cruise, or considering Charleston as your next vacation destination, these top 6 downtown sights will leave you in awe. 

 

#6 The Pineapple Fountain

The Lowcountry is prized for its warm, hospitable, embrace. The pineapple fountain, found in iconic Waterfront Park, serves as a welcoming beacon for those traveling to Charleston. You can also swim in it if you wish to cool off from your downtown trekking. 

 

#5 The Best Friend Train Museum

This free exhibit features a replica of the iconic Best Friend steam locomotive and is found in the Tourist Center Building. The train was active nearly 200 years ago and was thought to be a technological milestone for the Lowcountry. You read more about Best Friend and the history of Charleston in this time period here.

 

 

#4 Philadelphia Alley

This hidden thoroughfare will transport you back to an earlier era. You can read about its interesting and deep history here. This little hidden gem in downtown Charleston is older than the United States and continues to encompass passers through in an enchanting colonial-era portal. 

#3 Tradd Street 

Tradd Street laterally cuts the downtown peninsula, spanning to both outlining rivers. This street, and the Tradd family, are as old as the city itself. Lined with historic Charleston homes, this street has been included in many films and is truly a must-see of downtown Charleston. To learn more about the street, visit this great article.

#2 73 East Bay 

Take a step off of Tradd Street and you will find yourself on East Bay, home to a historic collection of colorful Charleston homes also known as Rainbow Row. 73 East Bay bears a vibrant pink that stands out even amongst the other colorful edifices. 

#1 Broad Street

This street was initially named Cooper Street but was renamed for its innovative "broad" width, allowing of more traffic. It is truly an iconic road in Charleston, dating back to the pre-revolutionary era. The famous Shepherd's Tavern was located where 46 Broad currently resides. 

 

Charleston Mandalas Series

All of these top 6 must-sees in historic downtown Charleston have been expressed in Fer's latest series. In this series, Fer invites the viewer to pay attention to the subtle beauty in the details constantly around us. Check out the full collection here!