Must See Sights and Landmarks in Sullivan's Island Area

"About: The City Market is a historic market complex in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. Established in the 1790s, the market stretches for four city blocks from the architecturally-significant Market Hall, which faces Meeting Street, through a continuous series of one-story market sheds, the last of which terminates at East Bay Street. The Market Hall has been described as a building of the “highest architectural design quality.” The entire complex was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as Market Hall and Sheds and was further designated a National Historic Landmark."

"Charleston Place may not previously have come to mind when choosing a spot to grab a few beers and watch the game, but that all changed with the opening of Meeting at Market, a highbrow sports bar nestled—you guessed it—on the corner of Meeting and Market streets. Upon arrival, settle in at the bar or lounge in one of the back sofa seats and order from an extensive drink list including nearly 10 local brews. You can’t go wrong with the menu’s elevated pub fare, including a smoked fish sampling board, fried confit chicken thighs, and a supremely tender salmon filet à la fish and chips."

"This historic market complex is located right where it should be- in the heart of downtown Charleston. Here you can get in some of the best shopping you'll find in the entire area, and do it inside of the 200-year old brick market buildings. The selection of local goods and heritage crafts is quite eclectic, sea grass baskets and spices being some of these."

"One of the nation's finest examples of Federal-style architecture, the Nathaniel Russell House was built in 1808 and is restored to a…"

"The only surviving urban town-house complex, this 1820 abode gives a fascinating glimpse into antebellum life on a 45-minute self-guided audio tour. The role of slaves is emphasized and visitors wander into their dorm-style quarters behind the house before moving on to the lifestyle of the rich and famous.The Historic Charleston Foundation manages the property 'preserved as found,' conserving but not restoring it. There have been few alterations and you get it as is, peeling Parisian wallpaper and all."

"After the Revolutionary War, Federal architecture began to make its way through Charleston from the late 1700s to 1830s. Marked by several chimneys, staircases, balconies, shutters, narrow windows framing the front door, arched Palladian-style windows, and fanlights (usually above the front door with a semicircle window), this style was inspired by Britain and the temples of ancient Rome."

"Built in 1820 and expanded by Governor and Mrs. William Aiken, Jr. in the 1830s, this house and its outbuildings are preserved as rare intact artifacts. The extensive property allows visitors to explore the interconnections among all members of the household, both free and enslaved."

"This location is named due to the 13 colorful historic homes, dating back to the 1700s,  located here that have been painted in pastel colors. The homes are located on East Bay Street, north of Tradd Street, and South of Elliot Street. This is one of the most photographed locations in Charleston, and is a must-see if you’re in the area!"

"One of the best Instagram photo spots in Charleston is Rainbow Row. You should definitely visit this place is you love pastel colors. There are thirteen houses in many different colors."

"Bridge is Charleston’s modern landmark and a superb place from where to view the downtown district and Charleston harbor. The two and a half mile long cable-stay bridge spans the Cooper River and carries eight lanes of traffic plus a pedestrian walkway and cycle path. Walk out to the middle of the bridge or hire a bicycle and cycle across."

"At the end of Folly Beach, you’ll find the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve. It’s the perfect place to view the Morris Island Lighthouse, a red(ish) and white striped lighthouse that has become somewhat of an icon of this area of Charleston. The original tower was demolished in the Civil War."

"Standing at 161 feet high, Morris Island Lighthouse is an attention grabber!. It’s off the coast but you can get a great view of it at the very end of Folly Beach. Swing by during sunset when its striped body takes on red hues."

"More of a historic colonial settlement brought to life in authentic fashion than a simple park, a visit to the Charleston Towne Landing historic site makes for an excellent afternoon activity off-peninsula for people and groups of all ages. Just a short drive from downtown Charleston across the Ashley River, Charles Towne Landing brings the past to life at the site of the first permanent European settlement in the Carolinas. This state historic site offers bike rentals, nature and walking trails (including nature and history trails), and 80 acres of gardens and greenery."

"Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site sits on a marshy point, located off of the Ashley River, where a group of English settlers landed in 1670 and established what would become the birthplace of the Carolina colony."

"Right in the heart of historic Charleston’s downtown, the Powder Magazine is one of the city’s oldest buildings. Built in 1713, it was once upon a time a storehouse for gunpowder, making it an important location for both British troops and loyalists and those colonists and soldiers who fought on the side of the new nation. After the war, as the Charleston landscape shifted, the small building remained standing, and served as—amongst other things—a print shop, a livery stable, and even a private wine cellar."

"The Powder Magazine (circa 1713), South Carolina's oldest public building, served as an arsenal within the walled city of Charleston. Interact with interpreters and explore museum exhibits devoted to Charleston's colonial and Revolutionary War history."

"Replaced by a newer magazine in 1748, it served effectively until the American Revolution. Now open as a National Historic Landmark."

"The Isle of Palms County Park is a famous beachfront park offering a playground & umbrella rentals, alongside grills and an always-open sand volleyball court."

"If in search of something a bit heartier, visit Village Bakery, just across the quaint East Cooper River. While Village Bakery harbors plenty of options for dessert, its sandwiches, soups, and salads are also good picks to try. Restaurant owner Sal Parco has also championed a handful of other successful individual favorites in the Mount Pleasant and Charleston areas."

"At this eatery on the locals’ end of Market Street, French chef Dominique Chantepie shows his years of experience in breakfast and lunch menus, offering everything from crèpes to paninis (try the Prosciutto di Paese!) alongside a gorgeous array of desserts."