Founded in 1670, Downtown Charleston is known for its natural beauty, rich history, award-winning restaurants, livability, shopping, and romantic appeal. Charleston was recently named the top city in the United States by Travel + Leisure’s readers for the 11th year in a row!
What is your favorite thing about raising kids here?
We love how accessible downtown is to everything the Charleston area has to offer. From our house, it takes 10 minutes (by foot) to get to King St. and 20 minutes to get to Marion Square. In just 15 minutes by car, we can be at one of three beaches, ready to soak up the sun and enjoy the coastal vibes!
What makes Downtown Charleston family friendly?
Living downtown, we are within walking distance or golf cart distance to so many of our favorite places. From our kids’ daycare to restaurants to coffee shops, and a host of other entertainment, everything is within reach. Our kids visit a variety of playgrounds, feed the ducks at Hampton Park, watch the boats at The Battery, check out the Farmer’s Market and Historic Charleston Market, and visit new coffee shops and restaurants on the daily. I’ve written an entire article on the best things to do in Charleston!
What events does Downtown Charleston host?
Second Sunday on King is a monthly event where a portion of King Street is closed off to vehicle traffic and opened to pedestrians. Local businesses, vendors, and street performers spill onto the street, creating a lively, festival-like atmosphere. It’s a great opportunity to shop, dine, and enjoy the vibrant culture of downtown Charleston in a unique, pedestrian-friendly setting.
The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) is an annual three-day event that celebrates wildlife and nature through fine art, conservation education, and sporting demonstrations. It’s the largest event of its kind in the US, attracting artists, wildlife enthusiasts, and conservationists from around the world.
The Charleston Farmers Market is a weekly event held in Marion Square, offering a wide array of fresh produce, plants, artisan crafts, and local cuisine. It’s a gathering spot for the community, providing a platform for local farmers, artisans, and food vendors to showcase their work.
The Teddy Bear Picnic is an annual event at Hampton Park, where kids bring their favorite stuffed animals for an afternoon of fun. Organized by the Charleston Parks Conservancy, activities typically include games, crafts, a teddy bear parade, and a teddy bear “hospital”. Families are invited to bring a picnic and enjoy this free, community-focused event.
Charleston Wine + Food Festival is usually held in March. This festival is a celebration of Charleston’s culinary scene, featuring local chefs, winemakers, and food enthusiasts.
Spoleto Festival is one of America’s major performing arts festivals. It’s held annually from late May to early June and features over 150 performances of opera, dance, theater, classical music, and jazz.
Why would you recommend Downtown for other families?
Charleston is a BIG, small city. I love how quickly Charleston felt like home to me, and part of that is because of its size. It frequently surprises me how many people know each other. Are you considering relocating? Check out the article I wrote about relocating to the Charleston area!
What makes your community unique?
Date nights can’t be beat when you live downtown. The restaurants and breweries are top-notch. Having lived in Chicago and San Francisco, my husband and I are no strangers to good eats and drinks. As foodies, we’ve been thrilled with the growing beer scene and all of the unique restaurants Charleston has to offer.
What are some of your favorite businesses, restaurants or shops Downtown?
Chubby Fish, Estadio, and Maya for dinner without kids. With kids, Edmund’s Oast Brewery, Baker and Brewer, and Rutledge Cab Company.
Bad Bunnies, 132 Spring, Daps, and Babas on Cannon for coffee/breakfast.
Tiny Tassel for cute goodies and Pinot + Provisions for snacks and wine.
For entertainment, try The Alley, the South Carolina Aquarium, or the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry.
Interested in exploring other cities around Charleston? Check out our full Moving to Charleston City Guide here!
Katie Olejniczak is one of the most dedicated and knowledgeable real estate agents in the Charleston area. She stands out above the crowd; treating each client like they’re her only one and meeting them where they’re at with their individual needs. Bringing both knowledge and care to each client, Katie is ready to bring her A-game to all of her encounters! When you want a Charleston area real estate agent who will be dedicated and determined to get the results you desire – call Katie Olejniczak. She will help you achieve your personal real estate goals by being your biggest cheerleader and toughest negotiator!