Downtown Charleston feels like a living museum, where every block tells a story. Whether you’re window shopping, touring historic homes, or simply taking in the architecture, the city’s historic core is a must-visit.

• King Street Historic District - A lively stretch of boutiques, cafés, and galleries set among beautifully preserved architecture. Perfect for a day of shopping and people-watching.
• Rainbow Row - A postcard-perfect row of pastel historic homes along East Bay Street, ideal for photos and a leisurely stroll.
• The Battery & White Point Garden - A scenic waterfront promenade with antebellum mansions, shaded park space, and sweeping views of Charleston Harbor.
• Charleston City Market - One of the nation’s oldest public markets, filled with artisans, sweetgrass basket weavers, Southern treats, and locally made goods.

Just beyond the city streets, you’ll find moss-draped oaks, manicured gardens, and peaceful waterways that define the Lowcountry landscape. These destinations make it easy to enjoy the outdoors year-round.

• Middleton Place - Home to America’s oldest landscaped gardens, plus stableyards, exhibits, and seasonal events on the banks of the Ashley River.
• Magnolia Plantation & Gardens - Famous for its romantic gardens, nature tram tours, and abundant Lowcountry wildlife.
• Cypress Gardens - Known for its blackwater swamp boat rides, walking trails, and as a filming location for movies like The Notebook.
• Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site - Near Summerville, this riverside site features archaeological ruins, scenic views, and walking paths through history.

When you’re ready for salt air and ocean breezes, Charleston’s nearby beaches offer everything from laid-back surf spots to serene nature preserves.

• Folly Beach - A relaxed, bohemian beach town where you can surf, fish from the pier, dine oceanfront, or simply enjoy the sand and waves.
• Isle of Palms & Sullivan’s Island - Family-friendly beaches known for wide shorelines, gentle surf, and local dining just steps from the sand.
• Huntington Beach State Park - A pristine stretch of coastline with incredible birdwatching, walking paths, and the historic Atalaya Castle to explore.

Charleston is a food lover’s paradise, with menus that spotlight seasonal ingredients, fresh seafood, and creative spins on Southern classics. Reservations are recommended at many of these favorites.

• Husk - A nationally acclaimed restaurant celebrating modern Southern cuisine in a beautifully restored historic home.
• 167 Raw Oyster Bar - A local favorite for fresh oysters, lobster rolls, ceviche, and seasonal seafood specials.
• Poogan’s Porch - A charming Victorian home-turned-restaurant known for its biscuits, shrimp and grits, and Lowcountry comfort dishes.
• Hall’s Chophouse - An iconic steakhouse offering prime cuts, live music, and warm Southern hospitality.
• Fleet Landing - Waterfront dining with coastal classics and unbeatable harbor views right on the water.

From galleries and theaters to family-friendly attractions, Charleston offers a full calendar of cultural experiences and educational outings.

• Gibbes Museum of Art - Showcasing Southern art, rotating exhibitions, and collections that span centuries.
• South Carolina Aquarium - Interactive exhibits on Charleston Harbor, featuring sea turtles, otters, and hands-on experiences.
• Dock Street Theatre - America’s first theater, offering live performances in a beautifully restored historic space.
• Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum - Tour historic vessels like the USS Yorktown and explore immersive exhibits overlooking the harbor.

Living at Cresswind Charleston or The Ponds means you’re surrounded by local favorites in Summerville, with dining, parks, and everyday conveniences close to home.

• Downtown Summerville - Historic streets lined with restaurants, boutiques, and small-town charm, just a short drive from both communities.
• Azalea Park - A peaceful park with blooming azaleas, ponds, sculptures, and walking paths that showcase Summerville’s natural beauty.
• Nexton Square - A modern dining and shopping destination with patios, live music, and a walkable atmosphere.
• Summerville Farmers Market - Fresh produce, artisan foods, and local crafts that make weekend mornings feel like an event.
• Wescott & Legend Oaks Golf Clubs - Nearby courses offering scenic Lowcountry layouts and a welcoming club atmosphere.