Charleston, SC has proven itself a bucket-list location as one of the most desired American destinations complete with gas lamp-lit streets, steeple-studded skyline and antebellum charm that enchants tens of thousands each year from around the globe. This Lowcountry gem stands as one of the best cities in America according to Travel and Leisure.
After a few treks to the Holy City (and even living there for more than a year), I can confidently say it does. Lady, my dog definitely agrees and I can see why; Charleston is one of our favorites.
Stroll down cobblestone streets downtown and splurge in parks, plantations or fun games to make new memories.
Be sure to check out some of our favorite dog-friendly activities in Charleston!
Dog-Friendly Activities in Charleston, SC
1. Explore Downtown Charleston
Downtown Charleston is a charming, sunny, and historic coastal city in the South. Walking about the streets you’ll swear that you’ve gone back in time with rows of pastel buildings and majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss.
Horse click-clacking on cobblestone and flying sea breeze from the harbor just add to this lifestyle. From there, you and your pup may not want to return home!
Charleston is very pet-friendly. A lot of local shops and eateries put water bowls outside for dogs, even welcoming them inside. Here are some must-do Downtown Charleston while you are in town:
Waterfront Park
The Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park is a staple of most pictures you see from Charleston. Just be mindful that this is a pet-friendly park with beautiful harbor views, gardens, walking paths and an awesome pier which has fantastic photo ops of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in them! Lady and I like to lay in this garden when walking by the harbor for some ice cream, top deck watching yachts throughout our wandering.
Battery and White Point Gardens
The Battery and White Point Gardens (Historic District) This area was used to fend off sea invaders during the Civil War period. The park boasts historic cannons, commanding Charleston Harbor and the Fort Sumter view shed, an expansive green lawn shaded by sprawling live oaks trees and some of Charlestons’ grandest waterfront mansions.
Marion Square Park
Commonly visited Charleston’s CP, Marion Square was used in the 1700s as a defensive location. Now, it is a city park dedicated to Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion. King Street Locals bring their dogs to sunbathe, play fetch or have a rest from King Street. It also is home to the ever-popular Charleston Farmers Market that runs every Saturday from mid-April through mid-November.
Charleston Carriage Works
A horse-drawn carriage ride is a must-do in Charleston. If the pup is too small, four adults can bring it along for free with Charleston Carriage Works. A child’s ticket price is available for larger dogs or smaller groups. This fun ride is an introduction to city highlights that will be of interest to you at the same time as offering insight from a charming guide (and your dog).
2. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Magnolia Plantation, established in 1676 by the Drayton family is one of Charleston’s most visited historic places. It has also been named one of America’s most beautiful gardens by Travel and Leisure.
The grounds at Magnolia Plantation are designed to be a part of the surrounding natural world, creating an oasis. Exploring some beautiful gardens, strolling along a few nature trails or taking a tour of the Drayton mansion can all be things that visitors and their furry friends might choose to do.
The plantation features tram tours, which pass through wetland areas that showcase 1000 natural and ornamental species; visits to forests of native trees overlooking scenic marshes inhabited by a variety of wildlife), presenting information on the plantations past as well.
3. Riverfront Park
Located on the banks of the Cooper River, riverfront park located in Charleston is an excellent place to sit and watch huge cargo ships go through as well as just take pleasure in nature at its finest. It boasts a large meadow where Lady and I have picnicked many times, so pack some lunch for an outdoor seat.
The park also contains the Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial. Make sure to take lots of pictures at key landmarks such as the Lone Sailor, Homecoming Statue and old naval officer homes.
4. Paddle Boarding on Shem Creek
Shem Creek is a popular waterway that winds its way through Mt. Pleasant out into Charleston Harbor. I have paddle-boarded here many times and it is always better than the last to have Lady with me.
You can rent paddle-boards very economically within Shem Creek from Coastal Expeditions. Wave to diners at nearby restaurants, observe delightful waterfront homes or take a quick dip in the water as you paddle along.
You may even meet some friendly visitors on your journey! Dolphins They get nice and close (This one even brushed against my board) That followed me down the creek on 1 of our paddle boarding adventures
Fear not, they are inoccous and only snoop around!
Pet Safety Tip: If you know in advance that your dog will be swimming, a pet life jacket may be the absolute necessity You should have one on hand even if your dog is a great swimmer, especially in unfamiliar waters.
5. Old Charleston Ghost Tours
Charleston may appear quaint and easy-going on the surface, however this city houses a deadly past that has lead to its drastic ranking as one of Americas most haunted locations. Consequently, ghost tours are a tourist draw in the area.
An actual ghost tour, The Old Charleston Ghost Tour with all of the history and haunting that you come to expect. You will be led from the darkened streets through the city, unraveling these ghosts of Edinburgh’s infamous spectral past.
Tours take around 90 minutes, beginning at 7:30 p.m. in Washington Square Park every night—so show up on time!
6. Folly Beach
As a favorite beach escape for Charleston locals — often called “The Edge of America” — Folly Beach is jarred by its maritime roots. Boasting wide sandy beaches and easygoing surf courtesy of the Atlantic, there’s room for Spot to sunbathe, catch a few waves or take a dip in it’s pristine waters — and play endless rounds of fetch wherever you roam.
Because dogs love the beach as much we do, be sure to take your furry friends with you on a day at Folly! Dogs are allowed at any time from October 1st to April 30th. From May 1st till September 30th they can be with you before the hours of a.m. and after p.m.
Once you have had your fill of the beach head over to Folly’s eccentric little beach town for food, drink and shopping options — there are lots of dog-friendly spots!
7. Charles Towne Landing
The founding of the colony at Carolina began in 1670 when English settlers set foot on marshy point along Ashley, it was an area which would become part of what is now known as Charles Town Bay. Nowadays, Charles Towne Landing lets visitors step back in time and see what the settlement was like 400 years ago at exactly where it all started.
An authentic 17th Century sailing ship replica, live-oak alley, illustrated gardens and trails that allow you to walk in the footsteps of history.
note: Dogs are not permitted in the Animal Forest-only All a Bord this port, there is room for your furry travel companion at all other locations on site.
Verdict
Charleston is hands down my favorite place! This city has it all, whether you are seeking a heart-pounding adventure or quiet relaxation in the Lowcountry. Charleston is also a great choice for making travel with your pets, as there are an array of dog-friendly things to do. What more could you ask for!
