Springtime in Charleston, South Carolina

The blue skies and mild temperatures of spring are ideal for exploring Charleston’s blossoming green spaces and botanical wonders. At Charleston Waterfront Park, stroll scenic boardwalks and enjoy views of the Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River. Admire seasonal greenery at Hampton Park, one of the city’s oldest and largest parks. Don’t miss the Rose Pavilion, home to a splendid collection of heirloom roses. Looking to get into nature just outside the city? About 30 minutes west of Charleston is the Caw Caw Interpretive Center. See alligators, bald eagles and native flora along 9 kilometers of elevated wetland trails.

Get immersed in Charleston’s colorful scenery on walking tours of downtown. Sign up for an architecture tour with an expert local guide to admire beautiful lawns and gardens alive with seasonal flowers. Broad Street is especially revered for its stretch of historic homes and gorgeous grounds. The Gateway Walk is a serene path connecting graveyards and gardens of iconic locations throughout the city. This short but stunning walk gets its name from the many wrought iron gates you’ll pass through on the route. Behold azaleas, lilies, wisteria and more in full bloom on this truly unexpected, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Spring is prime time for getting some fresh air, and downtown Charleston is known for rooftop bars and al fresco dining. Take advantage of the city’s famous food scene while soaking in views of the harbor and steeple-filled skyline. With open-air options ranging from upscale farm-to-table restaurants to casual hangouts and pool bars, you’ll find the perfect spot to watch the sunset with a craft cocktail in hand. Or, grab a seat on a brewery patio to enjoy live music and seasonal events alongside your beer. Charleston’s craft beer scene is booming with over 30 breweries, many located in the Charleston Brewery District across the Ashley River from downtown. On Saturdays, a free, hop-on hop-off trolley is available for transportation between the district’s taprooms and brew pubs. Sign up for guided bus or walking tours to make the most of your brewery adventure.

Charleston comes alive with events and festivals in the spring months. Savor the flavors of the Lowcountry in early March at Charleston Wine + Food in historic Marion Square. This culinary festival offers tastings, cooking classes and demonstrations from premier chefs and sommeliers. Also in March, the Charleston Garden Club hosts its Annual House & Garden Tour, a guided excursion through some of the city’s most notable gardens and homes. Art lovers will appreciate five days of public art installations and performances by local dance, music and theater ensembles during the North Charleston Arts Fest in April. From June 12 through 19, the seven days leading up to Juneteenth, celebrate and pay homage to the heritage and achievements of South Carolina’s Black communities at Lowcountry Juneteenth Week. Community events include live music, dance performances, a community parade and educational programming.

Fly into Charleston International Airport (CHS) and take a rental car, taxi or public bus to your lodging. Much of downtown Charleston is easy to navigate on foot.