Tours, parks, gardens, plantations, water — what to do with a free afternoon.
Passenger ferry connecting Daniel Island's Waterfront to downtown Charleston, running daily with free parking at the River Landing dock.
Campground with a store, bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, grills & activity center in a 643-acre natural park.
Guided kayak tours through the tidal creeks and marshes off the Ashley River, with free parking on site.
Canoe and kayak outfitter on the Edisto River, running guided tours and rentals through one of the longest free-flowing blackwater rivers in the country.
Small neighborhood park on Pierce Street with a pirate-themed playground, free parking, and room for dogs.
Two Civil War forts bookending Charleston Harbor, reachable by ferry, where the first shots of the war were fired.
Tours & interactive exhibits at the birthplace of the Carolina colony, first settled in 1670.
Free public beach access point on Sullivan's Island with parking, a reliable entry for families skipping the Isle of Palms crowds.
Romantic-style gardens dating to 1680. Azaleas peak in March; camellias bloom all winter.
Free public swings overlooking the Cooper River at Waterfront Park, a reliable stop for kids and anyone who wants a harbor view.
Dolphin-spotting boat tours departing from the Charleston waterfront at Immigration Street, with free parking on-site.
Neighborhood park on Cleveland Street with standard playground equipment, open lawn, and free parking in the upper peninsula.
The iconic 2.5-mile cable-stayed bridge over the Cooper River with a dedicated pedestrian + bike lane on the north side, connecting downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant.