Parks and Recreation

A rotating gif featuring photos of young children playing tennis + pickleball on blue courts in athletic clothing, being instructed by adult and older teen coaches. LTP (Live to Play Tennis) logo is visible on the fence on the edge of the courts.
Travel and Outdoors
🎾 The local program helping young players find their swing
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This photo shows a rainy day in the French Quater.
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10+ free things to do in Charleston
No cash? No problem. Whether you are spending a day or a lifetime in Charleston, these are some of the best offerings that won’t break the bank.
September 3, 2025
 · 
Callie Putnam
A aerial view of Charleston. You can see tops of buildings, a church steeple and greenery.
History
A look at how Charleston claimed its official city status
From settlement to city, we’re taking a look back at the path Charleston took to becoming official.
August 12, 2025
 · 
Callie Putnam
dog with sunglasses
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Dog-friendly business guide for Charleston
Explore these dog-friendly businesses in Charleston that span from places to eat, drink, shop, exercise, swim, and stay the night.
August 11, 2025
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Staff
A water bird flies over the marsh.
Travel and Outdoors
Go birding around Charleston
Use this guide to spot a variety of birds along the Charleston shore, in the sky, and on land.
July 21, 2025
 · 
Callie Putnam
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Take a hike: A guide to trails around Charleston
Looking for the perfect hike? This curated guide highlights tried-and-true trails in the area — plus everything you should know about them, from difficulty level to accessibility and beyond.
June 11, 2025
 · 
Staff
A family looks at a turtle in the aquarium.
Play
Kid-friendly activities in Charleston
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Charleston, SC has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
May 30, 2025
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Staff
Charleston County water parks
Parks and Recreation
Makin’ a splash: Charleston County water parks are ready for summer
With summer around the corner, here are three ways to cool off around the Holy City.
May 6, 2025
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Tatum Jacaruso
Visitors browse a vibrant indoor art exhibit showcasing mixed media, sculptures, and colorful wall hangings. People of various ages engage with the artwork, some admiring stained glass, fiber art, or abstract pieces. Sculptures of animals and intricate textures create a lively, creative atmosphere within a spacious, well-lit venue.
Culture
What you can expect at the 42nd annual North Charleston Arts Fest
The North Charleston Arts Fest is a free five-day celebration that will include performances, activities, and exhibits at a variety of venues throughout the city.
April 21, 2025
 · 
Callie Putnam
This conceptual illustration depicts a mixed-use development adjacent to a waterfront. The layout features a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, including mid-rise apartment buildings, retail shops, green courtyards, and community gathering areas. Tree-lined streets and pedestrian pathways promote walkability, while parking areas are discreetly integrated. A marina or dock extends into the water, enhancing the coastal appeal. Architectural styles blend modern and traditional elements, creating a welcoming village-like atmosphere. The surrounding landscape includes lush greenery and open space, providing a natural buffer between structures and the shoreline.
Real Estate
Updates on Patriots Annex, a mixed-use project planned for Mount Pleasant
This waterfront work, live, and play project aims to bring marinas, offices, hotels + tourist attractions, restaurants, parks, and homes to the area.
April 15, 2025
 · 
Callie Putnam
This photo shows Kelsea Ballerini performing on stage under a soft spotlight, creating an intimate and ethereal atmosphere. Seated on a stool, she strums an acoustic guitar and sings into a microphone, her focus deep and emotional. She wears a layered tulle dress paired with sparkling knee-high boots, adding elegance and glamour to the moment. The background is dimly lit, with a drum set visible behind her.
Events
Answered: Where Kelsea Ballerini should visit on her next trip to Charleston
Did you know? Ballerini collaborated with Apple Maps to highlight a few of her favorite Lowcountry spots.
April 7, 2025
 · 
Callie Putnam
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A photo of a sourdough loaf taken from above. We are looking down on the golden brown loaf which sits on a piece of branded Baguette Magic paper on a wooden table.
Food
Join the sourdough revolution in Charleston
The bread type is more popular than ever. We’re here to help you find the best loves in the Holy City, or to start making your own.
January 12, 2026
 · 
Patrick Sidwell
A doodle sat on a wooden pier by a lake. It is a marshy lake with classic Lowcontry foliage surrounding it.
Culture
Charleston pets: Paws up for the pups
We asked readers to send us photos of their Charleston-resident pets, and they delivered. Here’s our roundup of Holy City pups.
January 7, 2026
 · 
Patrick Sidwell
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Food
Charleston is hungry for Restaurant Week South Carolina 2026
Dozens of local eateries are taking part, and we’re here to give you the lowdown on the Lowcountry’s best deals.
January 7, 2026
 · 
Patrick Sidwell
An up-close photo of a Huguenot torte.
Food
Treat yourself to a Charleston-inspired Girl Scout Cookie
Different cities and regions have plenty of localized menu items. Now it’s time for cookies to join the fray.
January 6, 2026
 · 
Patrick Sidwell
People on a orange and yellow float, many wearing orange, smiling and waving at the camera.
Events
Plan Ahead: Don’t miss these events happening in Charleston
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
January 6, 2026
 · 
Patrick Sidwell
CHS-Rivayat lambchops .png
Culture
Restaurant Roundup: New and coming-soon restaurants in Charleston
Dining in the Holy City is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
December 29, 2025
 · 
Callie Putnam
CHS_savannah_MARCH2023
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The ultimate road trip to Savannah
Hit the road and head to Savannah — we’re sharing all the details about what to do and eat, plus where to stay.
December 29, 2025
 · 
Staff
Hampton Park in the sunshine. A big tree hangs overhead and a white gazebo is in the distance. The photo is slightly filtered, giving a nostalgic feel. No one is around. It looks peaceful.
Travel and Outdoors
Where would you put an Outdoor Library in Charleston?
The concept is taking over South Korea’s capital city. We’re thinking about where we’d copy it in the Holy City.
December 17, 2025
 · 
Patrick Sidwell
Several brightly lit trees covered in blue, yellow, purple, and green holiday lights. Children are milling about in front of the trees. It is dark out.
Culture
Hallmark movies with ties to the Lowcountry
Ever spotted the Holy City on the silver screen? We have.
December 16, 2025
 · 
Patrick Sidwell
A gorgeous home in Isle of Palms, SC. It has multiple floors, a decked pool, balconies, and is surrounded by greenery. we are stationed high above, and can see rolling green in the distance.
Real Estate
Hot homes: Doubling the price of local real estate listings
Charleston is among the hottest real estate markets heading into 2026, so we wanted to investigate.
December 10, 2025
 · 
Patrick Sidwell