Neighborhoods
Historic Lower Peninsula
South of Broad
Window boxes, iron gates, intimate gardens and courtyards adorn this stately neighborhood. Along the tree-lined streets and narrow alleyways are the largest concentration of Charleston’s premier properties: gracious mansions, elegant Charleston Single and Double houses, and renovated townhouses and condominiums dating from the 1700s to the present. Home to many of the most picturesque spots in the city, the South of Broad neighborhood is a great place to call home.
French Quarter
Renovated warehouses and pre-Revolutionary buildings provide a vibrant mix of residential and commercial use for this neighborhood. Amid narrow cobblestone streets, these stucco and brick dwellings symbolize 18th century European architecture, now housing galleries, theaters, taverns and popular restaurants. Elegant homes and gardens line streets aglow with light from gas lanterns. The sheer beauty of the architecture and views of the water make this historic neighborhood unique.
Ansonborough
Ansonborough is one of the most architecturally consistent neighborhoods in the city, due in large part to a 1960s rehabilitation project that preserved and protected over 60 structures. Ansonborough contains more than 125 pre-Civil War houses that were built after the Great Fire of 1836 as well as several new-construction luxury condominium complexes, many with outstanding water views. An important part of Charleston’s history, the neighborhood today is known for its quiet walkable streets and convenient central location close to shopping and restaurants.
Harleston Village
Harleston Village is one of the most popular places to live on the Peninsula, particularly for those associated with the bordering institutions the Medical University of South Carolina and the College of Charleston. Greek Revival, Gothic and grand Italianate style mansions stand beside Victorianized Charleston single houses and 19th & 20th century townhouses, making this one of the most architecturally eclectic neighborhoods in the city. Residents of Harleston Village enjoy strolling along Colonial Lake and catching up with neighbors at Canon Park or at local corner stores.
Mazyck-Wraggborough
Mazyck-Wraggborough was Charleston’s earliest planned suburban neighborhood and home to some of its most prominent early families. Largely developed in the early 19th century, grand homes, opulent gardens and many Charleston Single houses were built along spacious tree-lined streets. The area has more public green space than any other neighborhood in downtown Charleston and includes Marion Square, which hosts farmers markets, festivals and community benefits. This neighborhood is also conveniently located to all of the restaurants and shops that upper King Street has to offer.
Eastside
Charleston’s Eastside neighborhood is in the midst of a massive revitalization, where residents and investors are restoring some of the city’s most charming properties. Centered around Hampstead Park and Mall Playground, this neighborhood boasts fine Charleston Single residences, modest cottages, sweetshops and take-outs. Developed in the late 18th century by German immigrants, the neighborhood is now home to Trident Technical College’s Culinary Institute of Charleston as well as the newly renovated Cigar Factory which houses small businesses, restaurants, fitness studios and event spaces.
Radcliffeborough
The Radcliffeborough neighborhood is an eclectic and lively area downtown, filled with late-19th century Charleston Single houses of varying sizes as well as a few grand homes and cottages. The neighborhood features Ashley Hall, a private girls’ school founded in 1909, as well as several historic churches. Adjacent to the Medical University of South Carolina and fashionable upper King Street, Radcliffeborough is also close to the College of Charleston, making this one of the most convenient spots downtown.
Cannonborough/Elliotborough
The Cannonborough and Elliotborough neighborhoods have gone through a recent resurgence, and are extremely popular with young professionals and college students alike. This neighborhood blends the old and new seamlessly, with architecture that includes everything from antebellum Charleston Single houses to sleek modern dwellings fitted into alleys and enclaves. Close to the College of Charleston and the Medical University, this neighborhood stands out for its diversity of use. There are numerous corner stores, small businesses, bakeries, boutique shops and plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants.
Historic Upper Peninsula
Charleston Beaches
