20 Best Things to do in Mount Pleasant!
Mount Pleasant in South Carolina, is a charming town nestled just across the Cooper River from Charleston. Known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and welcoming community, Mount Pleasant offers a delightful mix of natural attractions, historic sites, and modern amenities. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Mount Pleasant during your visit to South Carolina.
1. Must-See Attractions
Mount Pleasant Historic District
As you walk through Mount Pleasant Historic District, you’ll see preserved homes and buildings that tell the story of the town’s past. The architecture reflects different periods, from the early 19th century to the early 20th century. Many of these buildings are now filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Along the way, you’ll see historic landmarks, such as the Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Church and the Old Village Post House. These sites offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history and the Alhambra Hall Park is a popular spot, offering stunning views of the Charleston Harbor.
Shem Creek Park
The Shem Creek Park features a boardwalk that stretches along the creek, providing a perfect place for spending time. Along the way, you can watch boats pass by and enjoy the fresh coastal air. The park is also a great spot for fishing, with several piers to cast a line and try your luck. For those who love kayaking or paddleboarding, it’s an ideal location to explore the water and observe local wildlife. You might spot dolphins, birds, and other marine creatures as you paddle along the creek. Shem Creek Park is also home to several restaurants and bars, with beautiful waterfront views.
Mt. Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park
The Mt. Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park is located under the Ravenel Bridge and offers stunning views of the Charleston Harbor. The park features a long pier that extends into the harbor, perfect for a relaxing walk or some fishing. The park also has a playground and plenty of benches to relax along the pier and enjoy the passing boats. For those interested in local history, the War Memorial honors the men and women who have served in the armed forces. The park is also a starting point for the Mount Pleasant Pier, which is a great spot for fishing and enjoying the water.
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
As you enter Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, you’ll see centuries-old oak trees are lined in Spanish moss. The main house was built in 1936, it’s open for guided tours that provide insight into the rich history of the estate. You’ll learn about the lives of the people who lived and worked there, including the enslaved individuals who played a crucial role in plantation’s operation. It features several original slave cabins that have been preserved and converted into exhibits. For a memorable experience, consider attending one of the plantation’s live performances or historical reenactments.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking and Canoeing
The Mount Pleasant’s waterways are perfect for a day of paddling, whether you’re a rookie or a pro kayaker. The Shem Creek is a popular starting point, where you can rent kayaks and canoes and easily launch them into the creek. As you paddle along, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the marshlands and local wildlife. The creek also leads out to the Charleston Harbor, to enjoy open waters and take in the views of the city skyline. Guided tours like Coastal Expeditions on Shem Creek or Shem Creek Boat Landing show you the best spots and provide insights into the ecosystem.
Fishing Charters
In Mount Pleasant, fishing charters offer an exciting way to experience the area’s rich marine life and beautiful waters. Many companies like Tight Line Charters or Charleston Fishing Trips, provide a variety of charter options. These charters typically include all the necessary gear, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment. Many charters also provide options for families, making it a fun outing for everyone, regardless of age or experience level. Some charters offer specialized trips, such as shark fishing or night fishing, for those looking for a unique experience.
Golfing Courses
Mount Pleasant is a golfer’s paradise with several beautiful courses to choose from. One popular course is Patriots Point Links, located on the Charleston Harbor, offering stunning views of the water and city skyline. The challenging yet enjoyable layout caters to golfers of all skill levels. Another great option is Dunes West Golf and River Club, set along the Wando River, featuring well-kept greens, with a mix of open holes and tree-lined fairways. RiverTowne Country Club is known for its scenic views and well-designed layout, with a mix of challenging and more forgiving holes.
The Charleston National Golf Club is a favorite among locals and visitors, set in a beautiful natural setting with marshlands and woodlands, providing a peaceful environment. The layout is challenging but fair, with well-placed bunkers and water hazards. For a more casual and family-friendly option, the Snee Farm Country Club offers a welcoming atmosphere and a fun course to play. Each of these courses provides a unique golfing experience with beautiful scenery and well-maintained facilities.
Boating Tours
In Mount Pleasant, boating tours offer a fantastic way to explore the coastal waters. These tours provide a unique perspective of the area, allowing you to see stunning views of the coastline, marshlands, and wildlife. Many companies like Charleston Harbor Tours or Spirit Line Cruises, offer a variety of tour options, including dolphin watching, sunset cruises, and eco-tours. These tours are led by experienced captains who share their knowledge of the area’s history and ecosystem. You’ll have the opportunity to see dolphins and other marine life up close as you cruise along the water.
Dolphin Watching Tours
Dolphin watching tours offer a wonderful way to experience the waters, where you can see dolphins playing in their natural habitat. Many companies like Sundog Sailing & Boating or Everything Zen Sailing Charters, provide various tour options, led by experienced captains who know the best spots for dolphin sightings. During the tour, you’ll learn interesting facts about dolphins and watching them in the wild is an unforgettable experience. Tours also offer sunset options, providing stunning views of the coastline and some tours even include stops at nearby islands to explore.
3. Iconic Landmarks
Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
The Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park can be reached only by ferry. As you approach the fort, you’ll see the spot where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. The fort is preserved, with cannons and exhibits that tell the story of its role in the war. Fort Moultrie, on the other hand, is located on Sullivan’s Island and has a history that spans more than two centuries. The fort has been restored to show its appearance during different periods, from the Revolutionary War to World War II. You’ll see various displays and artifacts that showcase it’s role in American history.
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
The Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum features a variety of exhibits and historic ships. It includes the USS Laffey, a destroyer known for its role in the D-Day invasion, and the USS Clamagore, a Cold War-era submarine. Each ship offers a glimpse into naval history and the lives of the sailors who served on them. In addition to the ships, Patriots Point has a large collection of aircraft, including vintage warplanes and helicopters. The Vietnam Experience Exhibit gives visitors an idea of what life was like for soldiers during the Vietnam War, with recreated scenes and sounds.
USS Yorktown CV-10
The USS Yorktown CV-10 is an aircraft carrier, also known as “The Fighting Lady,” played a significant role in World War II and later conflicts. Now docked at Patriots Point, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a chance to explore its decks and learn about its storied past. As you walk through the ship, you’ll see various exhibits, including aircraft, and the Medal of Honor Museum, it honors the brave individuals who have received the prestigious award. Another interesting feature is the Apollo 8 exhibit, which highlights the aircraft carrier’s role in recovering the Apollo 8 space capsule.
Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse
The Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse is known as “Charleston Light,” stands out with its modern triangular design and was built in 1962, making it the last major lighthouse constructed in the United States. At 140 feet tall, it is one of the tallest lighthouses in the country, with a powerful light that can be seen from 27 miles away. Unlike traditional lighthouses, Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse has an elevator and air conditioning, highlighting its advanced features for its time. While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, visitors can still admire it from the surrounding area and nearby beach.
Mount Pleasant Farmers Market
The Mount Pleasant Farmers Market is held weekly, providing a variety of fresh, local produce and handmade goods. As you walk around, you’ll find stalls filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, and flowers. In addition to fresh produce, the market has many local artisans selling unique crafts, jewelry, and artwork. There’s also a selection of delicious prepared foods, from homemade bread and pastries to savory snacks. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite or enjoy a meal from one of the food trucks. Live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a fun outing for the whole family.
4. Family-Friendly Activities
Isle of Palms Beach
The Isle of Palms Beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy their own spot by the water. The soft, sandy shore is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or taking a long walk along the water’s edge. There are also areas where you can try activities like paddleboarding and beach volleyball. The beach is well-kept, with lifeguards on duty during the peak season to ensure everyone’s safety. For those looking to stay a bit longer, there are many vacation rentals and hotels in the area, providing accommodations with easy access to the beach.
Splash Island Waterpark
The Splash Island Waterpark is located within Palmetto Islands County Park, it offers a variety of attractions. The park features a large pool with a play structure that has slides, waterfalls, and interactive water elements. Kids will love splashing around and exploring different areas. For more excitement, there are larger water slides for a thrilling ride. The park also has a lazy river where you can relax and float along. It also offers picnic areas with tables and grills, making it easy to enjoy a meal without leaving. There are food and beverage concessions available if you prefer to grab a snack.
Sky Zone Charleston
The Sky Zone Charleston is a trampoline park, offers a variety of activities that are perfect for all ages. When you walk in, you’ll see a massive area filled with trampolines. It’s a great place to jump, flip, and bounce around. The park has different sections, including a freestyle jumping area, dodgeball courts, and a foam pit where you can practice your jumps and flips safely. There’s a section for younger kids, so they can play and jump around without getting in the way of the bigger kids. For those looking to celebrate a special occasion, it’s a great place to host birthday parties or other events.
5. Natural Attractions
Laurel Hill County Park
The Laurel Hill County Park features miles of scenic trails perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. The trails take you through forests, open fields, and wetlands, offering a diverse landscape to explore. As you explore, you’ll find opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The park is a peaceful retreat from the daily life, making it an ideal place for relaxation and recreation. There are picnic areas scattered throughout the park to enjoy a meal in outdoors. The park has several large open spaces that are perfect for playing games or just relaxing on the grass.
Palmetto Islands County Park
The Palmetto Islands County Park features well-marked trails that are perfect for walking, running, or biking, and it take you through scenic marshlands and forests. For those who enjoy water activities, the park has a large lake where you can rent pedal boats and kayaks. There’s also a water park with splash pads and slides, which is a hit with kids during the summer. Picnic areas with shelters and grills in the park, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a relaxing picnic. One of the highlights is the observation tower, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Charleston Adventure Forest
The Charleston Adventure Forest has several trails that take you through the green landscape, providing a chance to spot local wildlife. These trails are well-marked and range from easy to moderate difficulty, making them accessible for everyone. For those who enjoy adventurous activities, the park features zip lines and rope courses that challenge your balance and agility. These courses are designed with safety in mind and are suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers. The park also has areas for picnicking, with plenty of tables and shaded spots to enjoy a meal outdoors.
How to Reach Mount Pleasant
If you’re driving, Mount Pleasant is just across the Cooper River from Charleston. You can take U.S. Route 17, which runs directly through the town. The Ravenel Bridge, a stunning cable-stayed bridge, connects Charleston to Mount Pleasant and offers a smooth drive with beautiful views. For those flying in, Charleston International Airport (CHS) is the nearest major airport. It’s about a 20 minutes drive from Mount Pleasant, and you can rent a car or take a taxi, shuttle, or rideshare service to reach your destination.
The bus service is a budget-friendly option, and it’s a great way to see the area. For visitors arriving by train, the closest Amtrak station is in North Charleston. From there, you can take a taxi or rideshare to Mount Pleasant. Once you arrive in Mount Pleasant, getting around is easy. Renting a car provides the most flexibility, but there are also bike rentals, taxis, and rideshare services available. The town is bike-friendly, with several paths and trails for cyclists to enjoy.
Local Transportation
Getting around Mount Pleasant, is convenient and offers several options to suit different needs. If you have your own car or decide to rent one, you’ll find that driving is straightforward. The town has well-maintained roads and clear signage. For those who prefer public transportation, the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) provides bus services that connect various parts of Mount Pleasant with nearby Charleston. The buses are affordable and run regularly, making it easy to get around without a car.
Another great option is biking, as Mount Pleasant is bike-friendly with several paths and trails. You can rent bikes from local shops and enjoy a scenic ride around town. Ridesharing services are also available, offering a convenient way to travel without worrying about parking. Taxis are another option, though they are less common than rideshares. For visitors looking to explore the area by water, there are also boat rentals and water taxis that offer a unique way to get around and enjoy the coastal views.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What’s the best time to visit Mount Pleasant?
Mount Pleasant is delightful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying festivals. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is typically mild but can occasionally be chilly.
2. Are there any must-see attractions in Mount Pleasant?
In Mount Pleasant, you can explore the Patriots Point Naval u0026amp; Maritime Museum, featuring historic ships like the USS Yorktown and rich naval history. Visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens for beautiful gardens, a historic house, and wildlife tours. For a laid-back experience, Shem Creek offers waterfront dining at charming restaurants and the chance to spot local wildlife.
3. What are some good dining places to eat in Mount Pleasant?
For a taste of local seafood, you can visit Husk for some Southern specialties or head to Shem Creek Bar u0026amp; Grill for fresh, local dishes. If you’re looking for a casual meal, Palladium Sports Lounge provides a relaxed vibe with American comfort food and sports on TV. For a more upscale dining experience, The Ocean Room at the Sanctuary offers fine dining with beautiful ocean views.
4. Is Mount Pleasant family friendly destination?
Mount Pleasant is a fantastic place for families. Kids will enjoy exploring the Patriots Point Naval u0026amp; Maritime Museum, where they can see an aircraft carrier and other naval ships. Shem Creek Park is perfect for a family picnic and offers a chance to spot dolphins and other wildlife. Additionally, there are several local parks with playgrounds and open spaces where children can have fun and play.
5. Are there any local festivals or events in Mount Pleasant?
Mount Pleasant features two popular events that highlight the town’s community spirit. The Blessing of the Fleet is an annual festival celebrating the shrimping industry with parades, food, and music. The Mount Pleasant Farmers Market, held weekly, offers fresh produce, crafts, and local goods, giving visitors a taste of the town’s vibrant culture.
