Charlestons finest city guide

Everything you need to know about Charleston!

Charleston’s Finest City Guide

Your one stop online source to Charleston, South Carolina.

Charleston’s Finest c i t y g u i d e www.CharlestonsFinest.com

Your guide to relocating to the Charleston area

Everything you need to know about Charleston!

Charleston’s Finest City Guide

Your one stop online source to Charleston, South Carolina.

Charleston’s Finest c i t y g u i d e www.CharlestonsFinest.com

Your guide to relocating to the Charleston area

10:45am: Happy Hour begins.

Here in Mount Pleasant, we don’t limit our happiness to an hour. We let it stretch out wide – from stunning sunrises and warm afternoons on the creek to midday picnics and technicolor sunsets. Which makes for happy days, months, and lifetimes.

Call 843.884.8517 or experiencemountpleasant.com

Welcome

The Charleston region is full of life, history and opportunity. You have probably already discovered this, as you are considering, or have already chosen, the region as your new home.

On the surface, the region’s beauty is impossible to ignore. In fact, it’s probably one of the many things that attracted you to the area.

Rivers serenely wind through scenic marshlands. Historic buildings are shaded by grand live oaks draped in Spanish moss. There are a lot of advantages to living in an area that’s easy on the eyes, whether you’ve set down roots in Summerville, Charleston, Mount Pleasant or somewhere in between.

But much deeper than the region’s beauty is its history, which dates back to 1670 when the first English settlers arrived and established Charles Towne

on the banks of the Ashley River. As a favorite destination for travelers, the Charleston region proudly celebrates its history and the people who have helped shape the area into what it is today.

In addition, quality of life is something each community takes seriously. Schools are a high priority. New pedestrian and family-friendly neighborhoods are being built that mix seamlessly with established neighborhoods. There are abundant opportunities to experience arts, culture, outdoor recreation, shopping, dining and nightlife.

We invite you to explore the region, get to know your neighbors and discover the charms of the Lowcountry. It won’t take long before you become immersed in the area’s progressive Southern culture and call Charleston your new hometown.

We’re certainly glad you’re here.

Welcome home.

Shop Hicko r y Xad WhWdk daa_ [` kagd Za_W Furnitur e Mar t all under one roof!

HMF

Q /HU N N C S T

2

NNL

5 /HUHMF

'HMHMF 5NNL

%DCQNNL

+Z\ 6( ² +LFNRU\ 1& 0$57

)RU PRUH GHVLJQ LGHDV YLVLW ZZZ KLFNRU\IXUQLWXUH FRP 2SHQ WR WKH SXEOLF GD\V D ZHHN 0RQGD\ 6DWXUGD\ DP SP

+LFNRU\ )XUQLWXUH 0DUW LV WKH XOWLPDWH IXUQLWXUH GHVWLQDWLRQ &KRRVH IURP FRXQWOHVV KLJK TXDOLW\ IXUQLWXUH PDQXIDFWXUHUV DW DIIRUGDEOH SULFHV <RX·OO ILQG HYHU\WKLQJ \RX QHHG FRQYHQLHQWO\ ORFDWHG XQGHU RQH URRI 'HVLJQ H[SHUWV DUH DYDLODEOH WR KHOS \RX PDNH \RXU VHOHFWLRQV 7KH 0DUW RIIHUV FRQVROLGDWHG VKLSSLQJ VHUYLFHV WR DQ\ ORFDWLRQ DURXQG WKH ZRUOG 'LVFRYHU 1RUWK &DUROLQD·V PRVW LQFUHGLEOH IXUQLWXUH UHVRXUFH INTRO | 3

Contents

Photo/Courtesy of Kiawah Island Golf Resort

14 22

Living

Welcome 2 Introduction to Charleston 6 Economic Outlook 8 Education in the Lowcountry 13 Higher Education 16 Taking Care

4 | INTRO

20 Historic Charleston 22 Mount Pleasant 24 Isle of Palms & Sullivanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Island 26 North Charleston 28 West Ashley 32 James Island & Folly Beach 35 Johns Island 36 Daniel Island 38 Kiawah & Seabrook islands 40 Berkeley County 41 Summerville

47 Resource Guide 44 Sports & Recreation 46 Tee Time 47 Dining Out 49 Places to Stay 51 Arts Abound 54 Attractions & Tours 58 Nearby Getaways 60 Calendar of Events 62 Quick Links 64 Newcomer Information & Map

We’ve got it all Charleston was voted “Top City in the U.S.” in 2011 by Condé Nast Traveler readers and we’d like to introduce you to a few of the reasons why.

Atmosphere and Ambiance Daytime or nighttime, the Charleston area oozes atmosphere and ambiance. Experience it yourself: Take a carriage ride through the city to learn about its history, take in a scenic sunset at one of the city’s rooftop bars or venture out to a local beach to relax. Charleston gets into your soul and we think you’ll agree there’s nothing quite like it.

Culture and Sites The Charleston area is the home of many firsts. Founded in 1670, you can barely take a step in any direction without setting your sights on a historic building, plantation or other landmark. The historic area downtown does not disappoint, from Rainbow Row to the Market. And surrounding areas have plenty to see as well, from the grand plantations west of the Ashley River, to Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island.

Friendliness We’re certainly proud of the many accomplishments of our region, and we count being named the Friendliest City and the Most Mannerly City among them. We do live life a little slower here in Charleston and welcome travelers as well as new residents with the same hospitality and friendliness the city’s founders did. It won’t take long before you too will be saying, “Welcome, y’all!”

Lodging We offer a bevy of options for lodging. Want to stay in a historic inn? No problem. How about a beach resort with a golf course a stone’s throw away?

You got it. Historic inn, luxury hotel, bed and breakfast, marsh view, ocean view, harbor view or skyline view? If you can dream it, chances are, we have it.

Restaurants We don’t try to be anyone but ourselves when it comes to cuisine. Chefs focus on using local ingredients, including farm fresh produce and seafood straight from local waters. Charleston has become a hotspot on the gourmet scene and we use every festival and event to feature our local cuisine from spontaneous Food Truck Rodeos to the annual Wine and Food Festival.

Shopping From internationally known Louis Vuitton to locally known Bob Ellis Shoes, Charleston offers a plethora of places to shop. Downtown you can pick up a handmade sweet grass basket in the Market, or shop the latest fashions on King Street. Head out to the Tanger Outlet in North Charleston if you’re looking for a great deal, and swing by Town Centre in Mount Pleasant for trendy shops, as well as a few locally owned boutiques. Jewelry, art, clothing, shoes and more. If you need it or want it, we probably have it.

Charleston has proven it can hold its own against major metros like San Fran, Chi-Town and the Big Apple. Charleton has held a top five spot on Conde Nast’s annual list of top cities for 14 consecutive years. In 2010, we worked our way up to the No. 2 spot, and are proud to currently covet the top spot.

www.IntroCharleston.com Published by SC Biz News Vol. 4, No.2 Director of Business Development - Mark Wright mwright@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3143 Managing Editor - Andy Owens aowens@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3141 Special Projects Editor - Licia Jackson ljackson@scbiznews.com • 803.401.1094, ext. 206 Contributing Editor - Allison Cooke Oliverius Creative Director - Ryan Wilcox production1@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3117 Senior Graphic Designer - Jane Mattingly production2@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3118 Graphic Designer - Jean Piot production3@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3135 Senior Account Executive - Sue Gordon sgordon@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3111 Account Executives Sara Cox scox@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3109 Bennett Parks bparks@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3126 Renee Piontek rpiontek@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3105 Robert Reilly rreilly@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3107

Circulation and Event Manager - Kathy Allen kallen@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3113 Circulation and Event Assistant - Kim McManus kallen@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3116

Corporate & Commercial Division President andPublishing Group Publisher - Grady Johnson gjohnson@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3103 Vice President of Sales - Steve Fields sfields@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3110 Accounting Department - Vickie Deadmon vdeadmon@scbiznews.com • 864.235.5677 The entire contents of this publication are copyright by SC Business Publications LLC with all rights reserved.

Any reproduction or use of the content within this publication without permission is prohibited.

SC Business Publications LLC

A portfolio company of Virginia Capital Partners LLC Frederick L. Russell Jr., Chairman 389 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 200 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843.849.3100 • Fax: 843.849.3122 www.scbiznews.com

E conomic Outlook

Photo/Matt Tomsic

Economic Outlook

Boeing rolled out its first 787 Dreamliner in April 2012.

The Charleston area’s diverse economic landscape continues to draw large companies and entrepreneurs to the region

W

ith more than $200 million in economic investments announced last year, the Lowcountry of South Carolina continues to outpace the post-recession economy of many states in the Southeast.

Charleston, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant and Summerville — along with other municipalities — have developed a diverse economic climate geared toward developing large and small businesses, privately owned companies, national chains, real estate, manufacturing and health care.

Boeing Co. continues to be a driving force in the development of the region, with more than 6,000 jobs and four manufacturing plants, including a Final Assembly and Delivery Center for the 787 Dreamliner.

In the spring of 2012, Boeing rolled out the first 787 to be manufactured in South Carolina at the company’s plant in North Charleston and recently took the jet on a successful test flight.

The world’s largest aircraft manufacturer is one of many large and small companies making a positive impact on 6 | INTRO

the Charleston-area economy. Several existing industries have launched expansions, adding millions in investment to the area over the past year, leading to hundreds of permanent jobs and construction and engineering work.

The Port of Charleston continues to be a a hub of global commerce with a

At a Glance

Tri-county Population (2010).......................... 664,607 Growth Rate (2000-2010)...................................26.4% Median Age (2009)................................................... 35 Average Household Income (2009).............. $63,686 Annual Retail Sales (2009)..................... $16.3 billion Labor Force (November 2011)....................... 321,965 Unemployment Rate (November 2011).............7.8% Corporate Income Tax Rate (2011).......................5% Gross Metropolitan Product (2010) .........$28 billion Port of Charleston ranks 8th in the nation in cargo value (2010) at $50 billion.

Sources: Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, CRDA, U.S. Census Bureau, S.C. Dept. of Employment and Workforce, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

vibrant waterfront that imports and exports goods to markets across the world.

By working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and state and federal lawmakers, the Port of Charleston is getting ready for the future by expanding its capacity and working to deepen shipping channels. Some of the largest ships in the world already call on the port each week, and that is expected to increase substantially when an expansion of the Panama Canal opens in 2014.

In 2012, Forbes magazine named the Charleston area as the fifth best among mid-sized metropolitan areas for jobs and No. 29 overall. In 2011, research from the Wall Street Journal showed Charleston to be the metro area seeing the most gains across the U.S. in attracting well-educated talent, bucking the trend of educated adults and entrepreneurs clustering in major metro areas such as Silicon Valley, New York and Boston.

Tourism continues to play a major role in the Lowcountry economy with $1.5 billion local impact. High-end res-

welcome Photo/Courtesy of Clemson University

Largest Private Sector Employers, Charleston MSA Company Employees Clemson University’s $98 million wind turbine test facility will open in fall 2012. taurants, historic attractions, beaches, golfing and cruise ships all contribute a large part to South Carolina’s $14 billion hospitality industry. Many of the millions of visitors who visit the Charleston area frequently return for future visits here and to other parts of the state, and many choose to call the area home.

The area’s defense industry remains strong with billions of dollars flowing through the area’s economy from the Charleston Air Force Base and the Naval Weapons Station, which make up Joint Base Charleston, to small, medium and large defense contractors along with the Space

and Naval Warfare Systems Command.

Regionally, Charleston is home to several incubators and innovation centers, which are allowing a burgeoning creative class to take root by offering affordable space to small startup companies and businesses.

With several large hospital systems and the Medical University of South Carolina, the Charleston region also serves as a draw to some of the brightest innovators in biotechnology and health care. The region is home to the Hollings Cancer Center, the only National Cancer Institute designated center in South Carolina.

Joint Base Charleston............................20,000 Medical University of South Carolina.. 13,200 State of South Carolina (Tri-County)......9,064 Boeing.........................................................6,000 Charleston County School District.........5,300 Roper St. Francis Healthcare..................5,134 Berkeley County School District............3,744 Roper Hospital...........................................2,498 College of Charleston...............................2,470 Summerville Medical Center..................2,268 Trident Health............................................2,268 SAIC Inc......................................................1,877 Source: Charleston Regional Business Journal, 2012 Book of Lists

Recent Economic Development Announcements in the Lowcountry Month

New/ Exp. Company

Jobs Investment

County

Created

March ’11

E

3V Incorporated

Georgetown

$15 million

30

May ’11

N

Southeast Renewable Energy

Dorchester

$50 million

20

June ’11

N

Tire International

Berkeley

$25 million

150

July ’11

E

Coastal Corrugated Inc.

Dorchester

$1.5 million

26

Sep ’11

N

TIGHITCO Inc.

Charleston

$30 million

350

Nov. ’11

E

Cummins Technical Center

Charleston

$24 million

31

Nov. ’11

E

Streit USA Armoring

Charleston

$5.8 million

50

Dec. ’11

N

Cargo Composites

Georgetown

$700,000

40

Dec. ’11

E

SafeRack LLC

Georgetown

$9 million

58

Dec. ’11

E

TWL Precision

Charleston

$5 million

35

Dec. ’11

N

Sportsman Boats Manufacturing Inc.

Dorchester

$2 million

30

March ’12

N

Nexans

Berkeley

$85 million

200

June ’12

E

Cummins Inc.

Charleston

$19.5 million

76

$272.5 million

1,096

TOTAL

13 Announcements

Source: S.C. Department of Commerce INTRO | 7

E Ducation

Education

Charleston area schools are making gains as more emphasis is put on achieving and improving in the 150-plus schools in the tri-county area.

Charleston County

In 2011, the Charleston County School District created Vision 2016, a fiveyear plan that aims to cut the achievement gap in half and have 100% of its thirdgraders reading on grade level while investing in proven strategies.

8 | INTRO

The Charleston County school district runs up and down 1,000 square miles of the coast and includes a range of schools from urban to rural. There are about 45,000 students in the system for the 2011-2012 school year. Students are spread out among 97 schools, including 25 magnet schools and eight charter schools.

The district has about 5,500 employees and is the fourthlargest employer in the region.

In spring 2008, the district implemented a three-year plan, Charleston Achieving Excellence, to focus on three goals: elevating the achievement of all students, closing the achievement gap between groups and increasing the graduation rate.

By 2011, the district announced it would expand upon this program and created a five-year program called Vision 2016. By 2016, the district aims to cut the achievement gap in half and have 100% of its third-graders

reading on grade level, while investing in proven strategies.

The district has also expanded its support of child health and nutrition, literacy and arts and music.

In 2011, nearly half of the school district’s students attend schools with an “Excellent” rating. Also in 2011, the district’s graduation rate increased by five percentage points.

An emphasis on creating a collegeoriented culture begins in the early grades and the Charleston County School District continues to focus on improving the graduation rate.

Students in the district were awarded more than $48 million in scholarships in 2011.

Berkeley County Berkeley County schools continue to grow as more and more people move

welcome

We are Rob and Charlotte Black, and we are Ashley Hall.

'LVFHUQLQJ &UHDWLYH &RPSDVVLRQDWH “Charlotte started at Ashley Hall in the 3-year-old program, and we have watched her confidence grow every year. We love that her teachers challenge her to analyze information and to think critically about her lessons. That focus on developing the girls’ confidence and critical thinking skills is why we chose Ashley Hall for Charlotte, and we know those skills will help her succeed in her choices for college, career and life.”

-Rob Black, Father to Third Grader, Charlotte

Now accepting applications for girls 2 years old to 11th grade and boys 2 to 5 years old. Call the Office of Admission at 843-965-8501. www.ashleyhall.org

Are you Ashley Hall?

Ashley Hall provides a classical education with faculty and programs committed to producing educated women who are independent , ethically responsible and prepared to meet the challenges of society with confidence. Accepting girls 2 years old to 12th grade and boys 2 to 5 years old.

E Ducation

Photo/Courtesy of Charleston County School District

Photo/Courtesy of Charleston County School District

to the area. There are 40 schools in the district, including the brand new Cane Bay High School. More than 29,000 students are enrolled in the district that employs 2,257 teachers and administrators. More than 59% of the teachers have master’s degrees and above, and the teachers have an average of 13 years of experience.

The 2010-2011 school year was marked by several milestones including the announcement of Howe Hall Arts Infused Magnet School as the district’s first National Blue Ribbon School. In addition, five schools in the district were named Red Carpet Schools, and 21 schools achieved Palmetto Gold and Silver awards.

The district also received an “Excellent” growth rating on its report card.

Cane Bay Elementary School opened and construction began on Cane Bay Middle School to round out the Cane Bay campus. A magnet school of the arts opened at Goose Greek High School, and Berkeley County Middle College opened and celebrated the graduation of all 27 students in its first year.

Berkeley County is committed to innovative classroom technology. It has SMART boards in most classrooms and provides training to K-12 teachers in the use of SMART lessons software. All new and renovated schools have Cynergi technology that links safety and communication needs to the learning environment. The district also has an instant messaging system, allowing the schools and the district office to personally communicate with parents and employees regarding emergency situations, school events and other important issues.

Students in the district were awarded more than $22 million in scholarships in the 2009-2010 school year.

10 | INTRO

welcome Photo/Leslie Burden

Dorchester County Dorchester County, which includes Summerville, part of North Charleston and several smaller towns, is one of the fastest-growing areas in the area. It is divided up into two school districts: District Two, which mainly serves the Summerville area, and District Four, which mainly serves the more rural areas out past Summerville.

District Two is the second largest employer in Dorchester County.

It serves about 22,600 students at its 23 schools. It has more than 550 business partnerships that provide mentoring, donations and school projects, and 3,500 school volunteers. Its average SAT scores are consistently higher than state levels and its average ACT scores sit above state and nationwide averages.

District Two’s new Joseph P. Rye Elementary opened in August 2011 in the Oakbrook area at McKewn Plantation off of Patriot Boulevard. The state-of-the-art facility has approximately 1,000 students.

Students in the district were awarded more than $20.7 million in scholarships in 2010.

District Four has 2,500 students in five schools that serve the Saint George and surrounding areas, including Woodland High, Saint George Middle and Harleyville-Ridgeville Elementary.

Students in the district were awarded more than $1.7 million in scholarships in 2010.

Top left: A band performance at one of Charleston County’s schools.

Middle: Charleston County students participate in art class.

Above: Children listen to instruction during class at James B. Edwards Elementary School in Mount Pleasant.

YOU LOVE THE VIEW. WE LOVE KEEPING PESTS OUT OF IT. Charleston residents trust Orkin to keep pests in their place–and out of their homes. Call us at 866-536-8660 today to receive: s s s s

$50 OFF your first pest control service* $100 OFF your first termite control service* Superior mosquito control service Expert Formosan termite control service

*With the purchase of an annual agreement. Not valid in combination with any other discounts or offers.

INTRO | 11

Schools PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS Berkeley County School District P.O. Box 608 Moncks Corner, SC 29461 843-899-8600 www.berkeley.k12.sc.us Charleston County School District 75 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-937-6300 www.ccsdschools.com Dorchester County District II 102 Greenwave Blvd.

Summerville, SC 29483 843-873-2901 www.dorchester2.k12.sc.us Dorchester County District IV 500 Ridge St., St. George, SC 29477 843-563-4535 www.dorchester4.k12.sc.us

CHARTER SCHOOLS Charleston Development Academy 233 Line St., Charleston, SC 29403 843-722-2689 charlestondevelopmentacademy. com Grades Served: K-6 East Cooper Montessori Charter School 250 Ponsbury Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-216-2883 www.montessoricharterschool. com Grades Served: 1-8 Greg Mathis Charter High School 2872 Azalea Drive North Charleston, SC 29405 843-557-1611 www.ccsdschools.com Grades Served: 9-12

Susan G. Boykin Academy 4951 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 843-744-8882 Grades Served: K-6

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Addlestone Hebrew Academy 1639 Wallenberg Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29407 Phone: 843-571-1105 www.addlestone.org Grades Served: 18 months-8th Archibald Rutledge Academy 1011 Old Cemetery Road McClellanville, SC 29458 Phone: 843-887-3323 www.archibaldrutledgeacademy. com Grades Served: Pre-K-12th Ashley Hall 172 Rutledge Ave. Charleston, SC 29403 Phone: 843-722-4088 www.ashleyhall.org Grades Served: Co-ed, ages 2-5; all girls, K-12th Bishop England High School 363 Seven Farms Drive Charleston, SC 29492 Phone: 843-849-9599 www.behs.com Grades Served: 9th-12th Blessed Sacrament School 7 St. Teresa Drive Charleston, SC 29407 Phone: 843-766-2128 www.scbss.org Grades Served: K4-8th Cathedral Academy 3790 Ashley Phosphate Road North Charleston, SC 29418 Phone: 843-760-1192 www.cathedralacademy.com Grades Served: K4-12th

The Charleston Catholic School 888-A King St. Charleston, SC 29403 James Island Charter High School Phone: 843-577-4495 1000 Fort Johnson Road www.charlestoncatholic.com Charleston, SC 29412 Grades Served: K4-8th 843-762-2754 www.jamesislandcharterhs.org Charleston Christian School Grades Served: 9-12 2234 Plainview Road Charleston, SC 29414 Orange Grove Elementary Phone: 843-556-4480 Charter School www.charlestonchristian.org 1225 Orange Branch Road Grades Served: K4-8th Charleston, SC 29407 843-763-1520 www.ogecs.com Grades Served: K-5 12 | INTRO

Charleston Collegiate School 2024 Academy Drive Johns Island, SC 29455 Phone: 843-559-5506 www.charlestoncollegiate.org Grades Served: Pre-K-12th

Northside Christian School 7800 Northside Drive North Charleston, SC 29420 Phone: 843-797-2690 www.northsideministries.com/ncs Grades Served: Pre-K3-12th

Charleston Day School 15 Archdale St. Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: 843-377-0315 www.charlestondayschool.org Grades Served: 1st-8th

Northwood Academy 2263 Otranto Road North Charleston, SC 29406 Phone: 843-764-2284 www.northwoodacademy.com Grades Served: K4-12th

Christ Our KingStella Maris School 1183 Russell Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Phone: 843-884-4721 www.coksm.org Grades Served: Pre-K-8th

Pinewood Preparatory School 1114 Orangeburg Road Summerville, SC 29483 Phone: 843-873-1643 www.pinewoodprep.com Grades Served: K3-12th

Coastal Christian Preparatory School 681 McCants Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Phone: 843-884-3663 www.coastalchristian.org Grades Served: K3-12th The Cooper School 13 Oakdale Place Charleston, SC 29407 Phone: 843-573-1033 www.thecooperschool.org Grades Served: K5-5th First Baptist School of Charleston 48 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: 843-722-6646 www.fbschool.org Grades Served: K3-12th Mason Preparatory School 56 Halsey Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: 843-723-0664 www.masonprep.org Grades Served: 1st-8th Montessori School of Johns Island 3634 Mary Ann Point Road Johns Island, SC 29455 Phone: 843-559-0052 montessorischoolofjohnsisland. com Grades Served: Pre-school-6th, ages 2-12 Nativity School 1125 Pittsford Circle Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-795-3975 www.nativity-school.com Grades Served: K4-8th

Porter-Gaud School 300 Albemarle Road Charleston, SC 29407 Phone: 843-556-3620 www.portergaud.edu Grades Served: 1st-12th Riverpointe Christian Academy 2508 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Phone: 843-763-1600 www.riverbendchristian.org Grades Served: K2-12th St. John Catholic School 3921 St. John’s Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 Phone: 843-744-3901 www.saintjohncatholicsc.org Grades Served: K4-8th St. John’s Christian Academy 204 W. Main St. Moncks Corner, SC 29461 Phone: 843-761-8539 www.sjcacavaliers.com Grades Served: K3-12th St. Paul’s Academy 5139 Gibson Road Hollywood, SC 29449 Phone: 843-889-2702 www.stpaulsacademy.org Grades Served: 6 weeks-8th Summerville Catholic School 226 Black Oak Blvd.

Summerville, SC 29485 Phone: 843-873-9310 www.summervillecatholic.org Grades Served: K4-8th Trident Academy 1455 Wakendaw Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Phone: 843-884-7046 www.tridentacademy.com Grades Served: K5-12th

welcome Photo/Courtesy of College of Charleston

Photo/Courtesy of The Citadel

The Cistern at the College of Charleston.

Higher Education

W

hether you are a collegebound student, a college football fanatic, an employee or a resident interested in lectures and continuing education opportunities, there’s a good chance you will find what you are looking for in South Carolina’s higher education system.

Enrollment has been on the rise in recent years. More than 248,000 students were enrolled in South Carolina’s public and independent two- and four-year institutions during the 2011-2012 school year.

Founded in 1770, the College of Charleston is the city’s oldest institution.

It is a nationally recognized public liberal arts and sciences university located in the heart of historic Charleston. Students attend class in centuries old buildings, and many spend their evenings working as waiters and bartenders — or pedaling tourists around in rickshaws. Because

of both their work ethic and spending power, the students are a vital part of Charleston’s thriving hospitality industry.

The Citadel is another college with deep roots in Charleston. It’s not uncommon to spot a “knob” walking the Lowcountry’s streets. The freshman class is easily identified by the men’s shaved heads that resemble doorknobs — hence the nickname. A few dozen women also attend the military college, although females were not allowed until 1996.

The school is unique because it offers a classic military education described as “intense, meaningful and academically strong.” It differs from the nation’s traditional military schools because students are not required to join the service upon graduation.

The Medical University of South Carolina is one of the area’s premier hospitals and includes a strong teaching

South Carolina is home to 84 institutions of higher learning, including: •

Three research institutions

•

10 comprehensive teaching institutions

•

Four regional campuses of USC

•

16 technical colleges

•

24 independent senior institutions

•

Two two-year independent institutions

•

Two private professional schools

•

24 out-of-state degree granting institutions

INTRO | 13

Photo/Courtesy of College of Charleston Photo/Courtesy of College of Charleston

E Ducation 14 | INTRO

it would expand its aviation electronics programs and dedicate nearly 10,000 square feet of space for Boeing-related training programs at its main campus.

Students also have the option of attending satellite campuses for specialty training, such as Embry Riddle Aeronautical University located at the Charleston Air Force Base.

The Art Institute of Charleston opened in 2007 and is a branch of the Art Intitute of Atlanta. The programs it offers includes commercial photography, culinary arts, fashion and retail management, graphic design and more.

Charleston is also home to the American College of the Building Arts, which trains students in historical building trades such as ironwork or plaster.

The Lowcountry Graduate Center in North Charleston is an organization that formed to help working professionals gain advanced degrees through collaboration between the state’s colleges and universities.

But despite myriad choices, South Carolina, like many states, is at a crossroads when it comes to higher education.

Many exciting programs are under way here, including the South Carolina Centers for Economic Excellence program.

Photo/Courtesy of College of Charleston

Photo/Courtesy of The Art Institute of Charleston

component. Its specialty degree programs include dental, graduate studies, medicine, nursing and pharmacy. It is also one of the region’s largest employers, and the research conducted there is a vital part of the region’s high-tech biomedical industry.

The Charleston School of Law is a private institution located in downtown Charleston.

While the school was founded in 2003, like most things in this city, it is steeped in history.

In November 1825, a group of Charleston attorneys petitioned the S.C. General Assembly for a charter institution.

The following year, the Forensic Club started offering law lectures, beginning the Southeast’s earliest law school.

In 2002, prominent Charleston judges and attorneys set out to establish a law school that would continue the 19th century club’s tradition. The school earned accreditation in 2006 and graduated its first class the following year.

The Charleston region is also home to several technical colleges that offer a host of two-year degrees and trade certifications. This includes Trident Technical College, the region’s largest two-year school. Upon the Boeing Co.’s 2009 announcement that it would locate an assembly plant for its 787 Dreamliner in North Charleston, Trident Tech announced

welcome Photo/Courtesy of College of Charleston

Colleges & Universities The Art Institute of Charleston

24 North Market St., Charleston, SC 29401 843-727-3500, www.artinstitutes.edu/charleston

Charleston School of Law

81 Mary St./P.O. Box 535, Charleston, SC 29402 843-329-1000, www.charlestonlaw.org

Charleston Southern University

9200 University Blvd., Charleston, SC 29406 843-863-7000, www.charlestonsouthern.edu

The Citadel

171 Moultrie St., Charleston, SC 29409 843-225-3294, www.citadel.edu

The Citadel Graduate College

171 Moultrie St., Charleston, SC 29409 843-953-5089, www.citadel.edu/graduatecollege

College of Charleston

66 George St., Charleston, SC 29424 843-953-5500, www.cofc.edu

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 101 West Hill Blvd., Charleston AFB, SC 29404 843-767-8912, www.erau.edu/charleston

The state created the Centers of Economic Excellence program in 2002 to provide incentives for the state’s research universities to raise capital from private sources to fund endowments for specialized research professorships. The professorships serve a unique role in helping cultivate critical public-private industrial partnerships and expanding the state’s knowledge base.

At the same time, South Carolina is grappling with decreasing state funds and increased tuition costs. Without money for new facilities, demand in the coming years may outstrip capacity. And schools are constantly challenged with training students for the evolving high-tech industry.

The good news is that university officials and lawmakers spend countless hours studying, debating and creating innovative ways to advance higher learning in South Carolina — without putting the financial burden on students and their families. The state’s colleges and universities — including many in the Lowcountry — offer a competitive education to traditional and returning students. They also help fuel the local economy by serving as some of the area’s largest employers, by luring students and families to town, and in their relationships with the community and businesses. The Lowcountry’s institutions of higher learning

The Graduate School of the College of Charleston

66 George St., Suite 310, Charleston, SC 29424 843-953-5614, http://gradschool.cofc.edu

Limestone College

4500 Leeds Ave., Suite 208, Charleston, SC 29405 843-745-1100, www.limestone.edu

Lowcountry Graduate Center

5300 International Blvd., North Charleston, SC 29418 843-953-4723, www.lowcountrygradcenter.org Photo/Courtesy of The Art Institute of Charleston

Medical University of South Carolina 171 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425 843-792-2300, www.musc.edu

Southern Wesleyan University 4055 Faber Place Drive, Suite 301 Charleston, SC 29405 843-266-7981, www.swu.edu

Strayer University

5010 Wetland Crossing, North Charleston, SC 29418 843-746-5100, www.strayer.edu

Trident Technical College

7000 Rivers Ave., Charleston, SC 29406 843-574-6111, www.tridenttech.edu

USC Darla Moore School of Business PMBA Photo/Courtesy of The Art Institute of Charleston

153 Market St., Charleston, SC 29406 843-577-1195, www.moore.sc.edu

Virginia College are — and will continue to be — a major part of the cultural fabric of this region.

For more information on higher education institutions in South Carolina, visit the S.C. Commission on Higher Education at www.che.sc.gov.

6185 Rivers Ave., North Charleston, SC 29406 843-614-4300, www.vc.edu

Webster University — Charleston Metropolitan Campus

5300 International Blvd., North Charleston, SC 29418 843-760-1324, www.webster.edu/charleston

INTRO | 15

Taking care

Photo/Courtesy of MUSC

Taking Care

C

harleston stands on the cutting edge when it comes to medicine. The area is home to several major hospitals and numerous nursing homes, assisted living facilities, specialty clinics and rehabilitation services.

There are more than 2,100 licensed physicians practicing in Charleston, Dorchester and Berkeley counties. In addition, there are more than 4,600 registered nurses and more than 600 licensed practical nurses.

If you find yourself in need of medical care, your options in the Lowcountry are plentiful. The same could be said if you are looking for a job in a health care-related field. The medical industry is a strong economic driver and major employer.

The area’s four biggest hospitals — Roper St. Francis, the Medical University of South Carolina, Trident Health and East Cooper Medical Center — employ more than 15,000 workers.

Charleston’s health care industry has experienced a growth spurt in recent years as the population expands and ages.

16 | INTRO

That trend is only likely to increase as the baby boomer generation grows older and seeks Charleston’s warmer climate.

Like every industry, health care has been impacted by recent economic woes.

But it has been more insulated than most other businesses and is poised to expand in the region in the coming years.

Where the medical industry in Charleston was historically cloistered in downtown Charleston, a recent trend among hospitals is to sprawl into suburban areas to provide patient care closer to home.

Both Trident Health and Roper St. Francis have been granted permission from the state to build hospitals in Berkeley County.

In Charleston County, East Cooper Hospital, based in Mount Pleasant, replaced its aging facility with the $153 million East Cooper Medical Center in March of 2010.

Roper opened its $160 million Mount Pleasant Hospital in November 2010.

MUSC opened a $275 million, seven-story medical tower on its downtown campus in 2008 to treat heart and vascular and digestive disease patients. It has several

There are more than 2,100 licensed physicians practicing in Charleston, Dorchester and Berkeley counties.

welcome

INTRO | 17

Do you want a physician who partners with you throughout life?

Family Planning | Healthy pregnancy Preventive exams and health screenings Options to address menstrual disorders Menopause management | Surgical Expertise

including daVinci Robotic Surgery

I Do! North Charleston | Summerville

843-797-3664

lcwomensspecialists.com | lowcountryrobot.com 18 | INTRO

Above left: Roper Hospital in downtown Charleston.

Above middle and right: Area physicians and nurses have access to the latest diagnostic equipment in Charleston’s top-rated hospitals and medical facilities.

other projects ongoing at its downtown campus, as well as an 80,000-square-foot patient-centered medical office complex on Hungryneck Boulevard just off Highway 17 in Mount Pleasant that was expected to open in summer 2012. The facility will house numerous MUSC specialities in one location.

The Department of Health and Environmental Control reports the state has also licensed: • Eight adult day care centers for a total of 345 units.

• 14 ambulatory surgery centers.

• One birthing center (Charleston Birth Place Inc.).

• 78 community residential care facilities that form a combined 2,303 beds.

• 11 licensed home health care providers.

• One in-patient hospice facility.

• Eight at-home hospice care programs.

• 13 hospitals or institutional general infirmaries with a combined 2,141 licensed beds.

• 18 nursing homes with 1,953 licensed beds.

• Three inpatient drug rehab centers and 11 outpatient centers.

welcome

Hospital resource guide Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital

Medical University of South Carolina Medical Center

Roper Hospital Berkeley

171 Ashley Ave., Charleston, SC 29425 843-792-2300 www.muschealth.com

730 Stoney Landing Road Moncks Corner, SC 29461 843-899-2000 www.rsfh.com

East Cooper Medical Center

Moncks Corner Medical Center

Roper Rehabilitation Hospital

HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Charleston

Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant Hospital

2095 Henry Tecklenburg Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29414 843-402-1000 www.rsfh.com 2000 Hospital Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-0100 www.eastcoopermedctr.com

9181 Medcom St., Charleston, SC 29406 843-820-7777 www.healthsouthcharleston.com

Kindred Hospital Charleston 326 Calhoun St., Third Floor Charleston, SC 29401 843-876-8340 www.khcharleston.com

401 N. Live Oak Drive Moncks Corner, SC 29461 843-761-8721 www.tridenthealthsystem.com

Summerville Medical Center 295 Midland Parkway Summerville, SC 29485 843-832-5000 www.tridenthealthsystem.com

3500 U.S. Highway 17 N. Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-606-7000 www.rsfh.com

Roper Hospital

316 Calhoun St., Charleston, SC 29401 843-724-2800 www.rsfh.com

Trident Medical Center

316 Calhoun St., Charleston, SC 29401 843-724-2000 www.rsfh.com/roper

9330 Medical Plaza Drive Charleston, SC 29406 843-797-7000 www.tridenthealthsystem.com

Committed to delivering you right to South Carolinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newcomers.

Get There First!

Be the first to introduce your products and services!

newcomers guide g ide newcomers gu

For advertising information, contact: Mark Wright at mwright@scbiznews.com or 843.849.3143 www.intronewcomersguide.com INTRO | 19

Historic Charleston

Photo/Courtesy of Charleston CVB

Photo/Leslie Burden

Living in

Historic Charleston Downtown is a much sought-after location for newcomers who are attracted to its history, beauty and charming walkability.

“A rich history that is revealed in nearly all of its buildings.”

Above: Historic homes along the Battery.

Inset: The pineapple fountain at Waterfront Park.

20

|

INTRO

W

ith all the grace and charm of a Southern city, Charleston draws in visitors and residents with its historic charisma and waterfront panoramas. Stroll down King Street to browse boutiques, wander through art galleries in the French Quarter, or tour some of the city’s historic homes. The peninsula is home to a rich history that is revealed in nearly all of its buildings, streets and parks.

A bit of history The city, originally named Charles Towne, was founded in 1670 in current day West Ashley and started with about 30 houses. It moved to the peninsula 20 years later and grew to encompass several thousand inhabitants as it became a major trading center.

After weathering several hurricanes and French and Spanish at-

tacks during the 1700s, Charleston became a royal colony in 1721.

Charleston began to take shape as a major city, adding cultural, residential and commercial aspects. Businesses popped up, such as the country’s first fire insurance company and one of the country’s first theaters. Several historic landmarks were built, such as the East Bay warehouse district, which is now Rainbow Row; and lots were laid out in 1745 for the first neighborhood, Ansonborough.

The first church services at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church on Broad Street were held in 1761. It is now the oldest church building in the city. The Charleston Museum was established in 1773 as the country’s first museum.

Several major Revolutionary battles unfolded around Charleston, and the city eventually fell under British control for two years before it was incorporated in 1783.

Living

Photo/Courtesy of Charleston CVB

The College of Charleston was granted a charter in 1785 and the school garners a large presence downtown to this day.

In 1824, the Medical University of South Carolina was founded, becoming the first medical school in the South.

The MUSC campus and hospital occupies a large area on the western side of the peninsula between Calhoun and Bee streets, where a cluster of other health care providers have hospitals, such as Roper St. Francis and the VA Medical Center.

Despite a damaging earthquake in 1886 and Hurricane Hugo in 1989, Charleston still has some of the most historic homes and buildings in the South. A designated “historic district” preserves many residential properties.

Neighborhoods

lic use in 1768 and is now used by joggers and dog walkers. The architecture includes Italian and Georgian styles, as well as styles that span the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.

Radcliffeborough is bound by King, Vanderhorst, Smith and Radcliffe streets and contains much of the College of Charleston campus. Many of the houses have Italian and Gothic revival influences.

To the west and north of Radcliffeborough are Cannonborough and Elliottborough where homes are being renovated at a rapid rate. Close to MUSC, this area is popular with medical students and families who want a house downtown without the price of a lower-peninsula property.

New developments are opening up residential spaces, such as the Midtown project, which is expected to help revitalize upper King Street with condominiums and single-family houses mixed in with commercial space. The recently constructed Bee Street Lofts offer views of the Ashley River. With their proximity to the Medical University of South Carolina, the lofts have been popular with physicians moving to the area. This injection of residential property has attracted several restaurants to the area.

To the east of Radcliffeborough is the Mazyck-Wraggborough neighborhood, which stretches from King over to Washington Street. Anchoring the area is the landmark Marion Square, the 10-acre

Photo/Courtesy of Charleston CVB

The housing options downtown range from the sprawling pastel-colored multimillion-dollar homes to new luxury condos overlooking the Ashley River.

The median price of homes downtown is higher than surrounding areas.

South of Broad is the neighborhood literally south of Broad Street that includes the often-photographed Battery and Waterfront Park. Full of large traditional homes, this area has some of the most expensive real estate in Charleston with most of the houses coming with a price tag in the millions.

Walk down the streets in this quiet, storied neighborhood to catch a glimpse of traditional Charleston gardens and verandas.

The French Quarter, above Broad Street, is bound by Market and Meeting streets and Waterfront Park. It is characterized by the many art galleries, cobblestone streets and restaurants that fill the area, and it is named for the many French merchants who once occupied the area.

Above the French Quarter is Ansonborough, the peninsula’s first neighborhood, although much of it was destroyed in a fire in 1838 and had to be rebuilt.

Many of the houses have Greek Revival characteristics and were built by some of Charleston’s oldest family names, such as Joseph Legare and Edward McCrady.

Harleston Village is another one of the old neighborhoods that was developed in 1770. It encompasses the area north of Broad Street to Calhoun Street. It includes Colonial Lake, which was set aside for pub-

Top: Carriage tours are a great way to learn a little Charleston history.

Above: Rainbow Row. public park that houses a farmer’s market on Saturdays from April to December. The area also includes the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry on Ann Street and the Charleston Museum on Meeting Street.

Farther up the peninsula, Hampton Park Terrace and Wagener Terrace offer more affordable housing options with turn-of-the-century and brick bungalow homes. The Citadel campus also falls in the Hampton Park area.

INTRO | 21

Mount P leasant

Photo/Courtesy of I’On Group

Living in

Mount Pleasant

Once a summer destination for those who lived downtown, Mount Pleasant now stands alone as the state’s fifth-largest municipality.

A “The sleepy town on the other side of the harbor.”

22

|

INTRO

fter almost 250 years as “the sleepy town on the other side of the harbor,” Mount Pleasant forged its 20th-century identity when the Grace Bridge opened in 1929, connecting it to Charleston and sparking a building boom that continues more than 80 years later. The Silas Pearman Bridge, built adjacent to the Grace Bridge, opened in 1966.

Yet by the dawn of the 21st century, snarling traffic on those Cooper River bridges was choking the area’s prized quality of life. Things improved dramatically with the opening of the $650 million Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, an eight-lane marvel that was greeted with fireworks and celebration on July 16, 2005.

The new bridge marked the beginning of a new era for the state’s fifth-largest municipality, now home to about 65,000.

Despite its reputation as the suburban gateway to Charleston and the East Cooper beaches, the historic heart of

Mount Pleasant can still be found near picturesque Shem Creek, where the local fishing fleet dock beside popular locally owned eateries. The Old Village, founded in 1680 and incorporated in 1837, sits on breezy bluffs that overlook the harbor just seaward of Shem Creek.

Locals treasure its 18th-century homes, its quaint Pitt Street commercial district and the neighborhood’s authentic shade-drenched ambiance. Residents and visitors alike enjoy trips to Alhambra Hall Park and the nearby Pitt Street Bridge, which once connected the town to Sullivan’s Island by trolley but now offers views of Charleston Harbor and easy access to fishing and crabbing.

Other glimpses of Mount Pleasant’s past can be found across town on scenic Long Point Road.

On one side of the road, motorists may turn off and wander down a broad alley of oaks that leads to Boone Hall Plantation. Settled in 1743, this privately owned

Living

Photo/Ryan Wilcox

Photo/Ryan Wilcox

are numerous, popular and spirited.

Palmetto Island County Park, a 943acre facility, has nature trails, picnic areas, a 50-foot observation tower, a water park and pedal boat rentals. Patriots Point on the Charleston Harbor boasts a state-run military museum that displays four World War II-era vessels and more than a dozen vintage aircraft. The aircraft carrier USS Yorktown is also the home to the Medal of Honor Society Museum. Patriots Point features a golf course (one of five in town), and a new athletic complex. Patriots Point also connects to the Ravenel Bridge by way of Memorial Park, a $14 million waterfront park unveiled in the summer of 2009.

Because of its 20th century history as a bedroom community, Mount Pleasant’s neighborhoods are typically distinct suburban developments. Their varying styles offer residents a range of choices.

The Tides, an upscale condominium community on the Charleston Harbor, is among the town’s newest. I’On, a newurbanist development off Mathis Ferry Road, is an award-winning neighborhood of beautiful homes, tiny yards, elaborate public spaces and mixed-use construction. Farther out, the sprawling new developments of Park West and Carolina Park are moving the geographic center of town more to the east each year.

With people come businesses, most of them oriented on either Highway 17 or Coleman Boulevard. The town’s most prominent shopping area is Towne Centre,

Photo/Courtesy of I’On Group

historic property has been open to the public for tours since 1955 yet remains a working plantation. Its “you-pick ’em” fields and seasonal events are beloved by local families.

On the other side of Long Point Road, the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site interprets life at Snee Farm Plantation, home of one of the original signers of the U.S. Constitution. The U.S. Park Service staff makes a special effort to explain and preserve the region’s Gullah culture.

Glimpses of that Gullah heritage can be seen along U.S. Highway 17, where the area’s “basket ladies” still make and sell the Lowcountry’s signature sweetgrass baskets from simple roadside stands.

Efforts to honor and preserve traditions like sweetgrass basketry demonstrate an emerging sense of civic identity. After decades of rapid suburban growth, Mount Pleasant began allocating building permits in 2005 and now puts greater emphasis on planning.

The qualities the town guards today helped convince Money magazine to name Mount Pleasant as one of the Top 100 Best Places to Live in 2006 and 2010.

Money magazine lists the average home value at around $287,000 and median household income more than $95,000.

Caring for others is also on the rise.

East Cooper Community Outreach, a volunteer organization that emerged from the aftermath of Hurricane Hugo in 1989, operates social programs aimed at helping disadvantaged people live healthier, more successful lives. A weekly farmers’ market on Tuesday afternoons from April to October gives locals access to affordable, healthy food.

The town unveiled two new modern hospitals in 2010. East Cooper Regional Medical Center opened in March and Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant Hospital opened in November. Fitness has also been on the upswing here since the bridge opened in 2005 with a lane for bicyclists and pedestrians. Residents make extensive use of the town’s numerous parks, ballfields and gyms, and recreational sports leagues for children and adults

Inset: Live oaks draped with Spanish moss at Oakland Plantation.

Top: Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market.

Above: The I’On neighborhood. located between the Isle of Palms Connector and the end of Interstate 526.

In keeping with Lowcountry tradition, the town loves a good festival. Mount Pleasant hosts festivals for the arts, oysters, Scottish games, local foodies and children. Every April, the town turns out for the annual Blessing of the Fleet at Memorial Waterfront Park, during which local clergy bless the fishing fleet and local residents hang around to celebrate spring.

The annual Christmas parade is a big draw, as is the Cooper River Bridge Run, which attracts runners and walkers by the tens of thousands each spring.

INTRO | 23

I sle of palms & Sullivan ’ s island

Photo/Leslie Burden

Living 0n

Isle of Palms & Sullivan’s Island Life on the islands offer distinct choices. Isle of Palms offers upscale energy While Sullivan’s Island maintains its quirkier charms.

E

ast Cooper’s two beachfront islands are connected by one bridge but represent two distinct lifestyles.

Sullivan’s Island lies at the entrance to the Charleston Harbor and spent much of its history as a slave port. Its strategic position made it a key to the seaward defense of the city of Charleston and it was fortified well into the 20th century. To Charlestonians of the late 19th and early 20th century, Sullivan’s Island was the beach to which they escaped by boat when the summer heat grew unbearable.

Today, the island’s military and beachretreat heritage give the place an elegantly shabby, slow-moving style that is unique among southern beach communities. Islanders have adapted abandoned fortifications and disused buildings 24

|

INTRO

from Fort Moultrie’s sprawling past into creative living spaces and public uses.

Victorian homes line shaded streets.

About 2,000 people live on the 3.3-square-mile island, which remains a popular destination for beach-goers from Charleston and Mount Pleasant.

But with no hotels, the beach is seldom crowded. Easements and strict regulations protect the island’s dunes and maritime forests, and its lighthouse, which began operation in 1962, was conveyed to the National Parks Service in 2008.

Though Sullivan’s Island was home to two settlements in the 19th century, the neighboring Isle of Palms remained a remote, sparsely populated vacation spot until the early 20th century. A 50-room hotel opened in 1906, followed in 1912 by a beach pavilion and amusement park.

Living

Photo/Courtesy of Wild Dunes

First known as Hunting Island, and then Long Island, developers renamed it the Isle of Palms in 1913 to attract tourists.

Development of the 5.6-square-mile island didn’t begin in earnest until the 1940s.

The boom started in 1944 with the purchase of 1,300 acres by The Beach Co., which laid out roads and began building a mixture of vacation and affordable housing. The Ben Sawyer Bridge connecting Mount Pleasant to Sullivan’s Island completed the Charleston-to-IOP automobile link in 1945 and more growth followed.

By the 1970s, developers turned their eyes toward a 1,600-acre tract and began construction of what is today the gated Wild Dunes Resort. This exclusive community features two golf courses, extensive tennis facilities and a system of walking and bicycling trails.

Hurricane Hugo destroyed 95% of the IOP’s buildings in 1989 and the influx of

insurance cash led to a burst of luxurious gentrification. Today, the island has a population of more than 4,500, multimillion-dollar homes line the water, and its Front Beach commercial district bustles with restaurants and shops.

The IOP’s Windjammer Lounge is a classic beachfront bar and music venue, and the annual Polar Bear Swim on Sullivan’s Island, which draws thousands of high-spirited bathers every New Year’s Day, originates at Dunleavy’s Pub in the island’s tiny downtown.

Life on the islands offers distinct choices for those who can afford them — the upscale energy of the IOP versus the quirkier charms of Sullivan’s Island. Residents of both islands benefit from one of the state’s finest elementary schools, enjoy easy access to shopping via the Isle of Palms Connector and can often be spotted tooling around in their ubiquitous electric golf carts.

Photo/Courtesy of Charleston CVB

Photo/Leslie Burden

Opposite: Sullivan’s Island lighthouse.

Above: Isle of Palms boasts two picturesque golf courses within Wild Dunes Resort.

Top right: A family walks the beach on the Isle of Palms.

Right middle: Even when the weather cools off, the beaches are still perfect for a stroll.

Right bottom: Wild Dunes Resort.

Photo/Courtesy of Wild Dunes

INTRO | 25

N orth charleston

Photo/Courtesy of City of North CHarleston

Living in

North Charleston North Charleston continues to experience a resurgence of new communities, shopping areas and industries.

N

orth Charleston is an area in transition. With industrial and military roots, the city in recent years has committed to redeveloping its central neighborhoods and reinventing itself as a trendy yet affordable place to live.

The area north of Charleston was developed as plantations by early colonists, but after the Civil War, it grew into an industrial center. Just after the turn of the 20th century, the U.S. Navy targeted a huge swath of land along the Cooper River for a new naval base, and planned neighborhoods began to unfold to house workers, the military and their families.

The North Charleston area boomed during World War II. The dynamic area incorporated as a city in 1972 and has

26

|

INTRO

expanded to include land in Charleston, Dorchester and Berkeley counties.

In the 1990s, the federal government closed the Navy base in North Charleston.

The city of North Charleston has since partnered with developers to infuse new life into the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic neighborhoods.

Redevelopment areas include Park Circle, a community of neighborhoods planned early in the 20th century. Residential developments in the works, such as Oak Terrace Preserve and Mixson, have earned a reputation for their sustainable building practices. Nearby Montague Avenue is a Main Street of the past alive again with shops and restaurants.

Redevelopment is ongoing on at the former naval base as well, where once empty military buildings now

bustle with art studios, private offices and other commercial activity collectively known as the Navy Yard at Noisette.

North Charleston remains a center of business activity for the region, with many of the Charleston areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commercial and industrial employers located there. Boeing Co. announced plans in late 2009 to locate its second assembly line for its 787 Dreamliner in North Charleston. In 2011, South Carolina officials along with Boeing celebrated the completion of the assembly plant.

One of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major attractions is the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center and adjacent Charleston Area Convention Center.

The complex is home to the Stingrays, a minor league hockey team, and is a

Living

Photo/Courtesy of City of North Charleston

Photo/Courtesy of City of North Charleston Photo/Leslie Burden

Photo/Courtesy of City of North CHarleston

Top left: Montague Avenue has become the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Main Street with shops and restaurants.

Top right: North Charlestonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Riverfront Park.

Left: The Mixson Neighborhood.

Opposite: New neighborhoods like Oak Terrace Park provide walkable areas for homeowners.

Bottom: One of the many parks in North Charleston.

Photo/Courtesy of City of North Charleston

Above: A concert at Riverfront Park.

venue for concerts, performances and meetings large and small. An $18 million expansion is under way for the Coliseum that will include a new ticket window, upgraded box suites, better kitchen facilities and stage and sound improvements.

Nearby shopping centers include the Tanger Outlet Center and Northwoods Mall.

The Charleston International Airport is also located in North Charleston. Interstate 26 forms a spine that begins in Charleston and runs through North Charleston toward Columbia. Interstate 526, which has terminal points in Mount Pleasant and West Ashley, reaches its peak in North Charleston.

INTRO | 27

W est Ashley

Photo/Courtesy of Leslie Burden

Living in

West Ashley West Ashley features a range of old and new neighborhoods and shopping centers, historic plantations and a unique greenway.

“Eclectic shopping strips filled with many locally owned stores and eateries.”

28

|

INTRO

T

he area west of the Ashley River in Charleston is home to some of the area’s oldest suburban neighborhoods and, a little farther out, some of the newest.

West Ashley, as it’s called, also features a range of old and new shopping centers and restaurants, historic plantations and other attractions, and a unique outdoor walking trail.

Neighborhoods closest to the Charleston peninsula were built in the 1920s through the 1950s. Among the older subdivisions are Old Windermere, Byrnes Down, Moreland, Avondale and The Crescent. Development continued through the 1970s and 1980s in neighborhoods farther out from the city, such as Northbridge, Northbridge Terrace and Wespanee Plantation. New residential

development has continued in recent years, especially past the western boundary of Interstate 526, in neighborhoods like Shadowmoss and Carolina Bay. Long-ago residents of West Ashley have left behind several historic plantations and gardens that have been preserved and are open for tours. Magnolia Plantation, Middleton Place and Drayton Hall Plantation allow visitors to learn about the architecture and life of South Carolinians in the 1700s and the centuries following.

Another historic destination in West Ashley is Charles Towne Landing, the site of the English settlement that would become the Carolina colony.

The 664-acre attraction is a state park.

When getting around by car, main highway corridors in West Ashley are U.S. 17, called Savannah Highway, and

Living

INTRO | 29

W est ashley

Photo/Leslie Burden

Middle right: The sunrises over the West Ashley Greenway.

Right: A serene afternoon at one of the historic plantations in West Ashley.

30

|

INTRO

Photo/Leslie Burden

Middle left: The Avondale area runs along Highway 17 in West Ashley, which also is called Savannah Highway.

Photo/Ryan Wilcox

Top: Several murals cover the exterior walls in Avondale, where there are shops and restaurants.

Photo/Leslie Burden

S.C. 61, also known as Ashley River Road.

The two highways are connected by S.C. 7, also called Sam Rittenberg Boulevard. Interstates 526 and 26 connect West Ashley to North Charleston to the north and Mount Pleasant to the east.

For those interested in seeing West Ashley by foot or bike, the West Ashley Greenway is a good option. This 10.5mile walking and biking path weaves among residential areas and shopping centers and through small marshy areas and swaths of trees. The trail starts near the South Windermere Shopping Center and stretches to Johns Island.

Shopping is plentiful in West Ashley.

The area is home to Citadel Mall, one of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two enclosed malls. Shopping centers anchored by national retailers and restaurants surround Citadel Mall, which is located just inside I-526 near the intersection of U.S. 17 and Sam Rittenberg Boulevard. West Ashley also includes eclectic shopping strips filled with many locally owned stores and eateries, such as the Avondale shopping area along U.S. 17.

Living

INTRO | 31

J ames island & folly beach

Photo/Leslie Burden

Living On

James Island & Folly Beach James Island’s enormous live oaks and deeply shaded lanes lead into Folly Beach, which is also called ‘The Edge of America.’

“A distinctly independent streak in the Lowcountry character.”

32

|

INTRO

J

ames Island and Folly Beach, located just south of Charleston, represent a distinctly independent streak in the Lowcountry character.

Long a semi-rural area, James Island’s population has been booming since the early 1990s and the opening of the James Island Connector, a bridge that links the island directly to the Charleston peninsula.

James Island is bounded by Wappoo Creek, Charleston Harbor and the Stono and Folly rivers. Its network of marshes, inlets, sounds and creeks gives it one of the most scenic natural environments in the region. It was

a strategic key to Charleston during the Revolutionary and Civil wars. The Confederate attack on Fort Sumter began in 1861 with a shot from Fort Johnson, modern-day home of a state-of-the-art government marine science research facility.

McLeod Plantation, with its alley of slave cabins visible from Folly Road near the foot of the Wappoo Bridge, stands near the entrance to the private Country Club of Charleston. The Riverland Terrace neighborhood, located between Maybank Highway and Wappoo Creek, features enormous live oaks and deeply shaded lanes. A nearby commercial district offers

Living

Stay Awhile

CLOSEST B EACH TO H I STOR IC CHAR LESTON, SOUTH C AROLI NA 1- 8 4 3 - 58 8 - 24 47, e x t 1 ~ w w w. f o l l y b e a c h s o u t h c a r o l i n a . o r g

INTRO | 33

J ames island & folly beach

INTRO

from the old Coast Guard station. The island has been heavily eroded, and the Morris Island Lighthouse has been surrounded by water for decades.

Long described as the Lowcountry’s “poor man’s beach,” Folly’s signature shacks ceased to be affordable escapes for drifters, starving artists and beach bums a decade ago, but the island’s 2,300 year-round residents preserve its identity as a place where corporate homogenization hasn’t taken over – yet.

Left: A shrimp boat docked in a creek.

Top: Folly Beach has plenty of hotels and beach rentals for vacationers.

Top right: Center Street on Folly has a wide range of restaurants and gift shops.

Right: James Island County Park boasts trails, a water park and a 50-foot climbing wall.

Photo/Courtesy of Charleston County Parks

|

Photo/Leslie Burden

34

Photo/Leslie Burden

Photo/Leslie Burden

fine restaurants, antiques and the Terrace Theatre, the area’s only art-house cinema.

Recreational options include the Charleston Municipal Golf Course and James Island County Park, a 643-acre facility with trails, fishing docks, a 50-foot climbing wall, kayak rentals, picnic areas and a campground. The park’s Splash Zone water park is extremely popular with families during summer months, and the county park’s annual Holiday Festival of Lights attracts motorists on winter nights.

James Island ends where Folly Road enters a marsh marked by the landmark “Folly Boat,” an abandoned hull that was deposited on the roadside by Hurricane Hugo. Locals have been painting messages on it ever since. Another treasured local landmark – Bowen’s Island Restaurant – sits on a tidal creek in a hummock of trees in the vast marsh between James Island and Folly Beach.

Folly Beach calls itself “The Edge of America,” and the seven-mile island certainly seems to take the nickname seriously. The island celebrates its bars, fishing shacks, funky eateries and nefarious characters, and East Coast surfers swarm to the spot they call “The Washout” whenever an Atlantic swell pushes big waves ashore.

A county-run 1,000-foot fishing pier marks the center of the island.

The undeveloped eastern end of the island was the longtime site of a Coast Guard station. Morris Island, where the Union assault depicted in the movie “Glory” took place, lies across the inlet

Living

Living On

Johns Island Johns Island is the Lowcountry’s last rural sea island and is where much of the area’s organic produce is grown.

J

ohns Island, the Lowcountry’s last remaining rural sea island, is a vast swath of land between James Island, the mainland west of Charleston and the private barrier islands of Kiawah and Seabrook.

Its future is one of the most important undecided questions in the Lowcountry.

The island grows much of the area’s fresh organic produce and is home to numerous farms, nurseries, packing houses and produce stands. And though its main transportation arteries are heavily trafficked, the island has miles of long, quiet, tree-lined roads that attract Lowcountry bicyclists looking for a nice day’s ride.

Traffic remains one of the island’s most pressing issues. Johns Islanders shot down a proposed Cross Island Expressway in the 1990s and are divided over a proposed extension to Interstate 526 that would cross the island en route to the James Island Connector, shortening the 30-minute commute to Charleston considerably. The debate continues, as opponents don’t want to trade their rural way of life and thousands of acres of farmland for the suburban development better roads would bring.

The island boasts The Angel Oak, believed to be one of the oldest trees east of the Mississippi. Said to be an estimated 1,500 years old, the oak is a graceful giant, 65 feet tall, more than 25 feet around and provides more than 17,000 square feet of shade with limbs as long as 89 feet. It’s owned by the city of Charleston and is open to the public.

Another local gem is the village of Rockville at the end of neighboring Wadmalaw Island. This remote, picturesque village plays host each August to the Rockville Regatta, an event that dates

The Angel Oak, believed to be 1,500 years old. back more than 100 years and marks the end of the Lowcountry’s competitive sailing season. It’s as much a party as it is a race.

Horses raised for work, transportation or recreation have long been a part of life on the island. The public Mullet Hall Equestrian Center at Johns Island County Park (a largely undeveloped 738-acre tract) provides riders with facilities for horse shows and equestrian tournaments, plus 20 miles of riding trails.

The Charleston Executive Airport is a small facility that offers convenience to resort visitors and flying lessons for locals.

A 16,000-square-foot library, completed in 2004, is the county’s largest branch.

Much of the development driving the island today is upscale, including The Preserve at Fenwick Hall. Other developments offer a mixture of affordable and luxury choices, varying from waterfront lots to Charleston-style ur-

banism to custom rural seclusion.

The island’s central commercial district is located at the intersection of Main, Maybank and Bohicket roads. The island now boasts a fine-dining French restaurant, The Fat Hen, as well as the Italian restaurant, The Wild Olive, both on Maybank Highway.

Johns Island is a stronghold of Gullah culture and holds a special place in the Lowcountry’s civil rights history. Native son Esau Jenkins, despite receiving no formal education beyond the fourth grade, understood in the 1950s and 1960s that the future of the island’s isolated black communities would depend on bootstrapping programs for their education and health. He and others founded “Citizenship Schools” that helped residents — many of whom were illiterate — qualify to vote, and their Sea Island Health Corp. brought doctors and nurses to rural corners that had never received proper care.

INTRO | 35

daniel island

Photo/Leslie Burden

Daniel Island Daniel Island is largely a bedroom community and offers many amenities, including an extensive system of parks.

T

he Lowcountry’s newest address is also one of its most attractive. Daniel Island has grown from an undeveloped expanse of forest and farmland into a thriving community of more than 5,000.

The 4,000-acre island at the tip of the Cainhoy Peninsula was essentially uninhabited when Interstate 526 crossed it in the 1990s, linking the land between the Wando and Cooper rivers to the mainland for the first time. Development, guided by a master plan worked out in conjunction with the Guggenheim Foundation (which owned the island from 1947-97), began in the late 1990s. Today, the Daniel Island community spans nine neighborhoods, a central commercial district, more than 400 acres of public parkland,

36

|

INTRO

two golf courses, a professional soccer stadium and a world-class tennis facility.

Daniel Island is incorporated into the city of Charleston, even though it’s located in Berkeley County and residents must pass through Mount Pleasant or North Charleston to reach it. Though generally considered a bedroom community, the island’s daytime population swells to an estimated 8,500, thanks to employers such as software firm Blackbaud and the 34-acre campus of Bishop England High School, which moved to the island in 1998 after more than 80 years in downtown Charleston.

Home prices range from the $300,000s to more than $3 million, with select lots selling for upwards of $1 million.

Condominiums are available for less

Photo/Daniel Island Real Esate

Living On

than $200,000, but the island’s network of public spaces, services, shopping, education and amenities generally tends to put a premium on property values. Plans point toward an eventual population of 15,000.

Life on the island benefits from 23 miles of shoreline, much of it open to the public, and the extensive system of parks and docks give neighborhoods plenty of public spaces and room to socialize.

The island’s event calendar gets more crowded every year, thanks in large part to the Family Circle Cup Tennis Center (its namesake tournament is played there each April) and Blackbaud Stadium, home pitch for the Charleston Battery Soccer Club.

These modern facilities are increasingly in demand for concerts and festivals.

WELCOME TO CHARLESTONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ISLAND TOWN. danielisland.com 800-958-5635

Edged by 23 miles of rivers and tidal creeks With parks, gardens, biking and walking trails On-island shops, schools, restaurants and churches Convenient to beaches and international airport A private club featuring golf courses by Tom Fazio and Rees Jones The Family Circle Tennis Center A diverse selection of homes and homesites An established community with a coveted Charleston address A smart decision A town. An island. A way of life.

To learn more, call or visit us online at danielisland.com.

Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law and read before signing anything. No Federal Agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required and registration requirements have not yet been met. NY residents: Complete Offering terms are in an offering plan available from Sponsor. File No. HO-00-0016. Equal Housing Opportunity. Access and rights to recreational amenities may be subject to fees, membership dues or limitations.

INTRO | 37

kiawah & Seabrook islands

Photo/Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Living On

Kiawah & Seabrook Islands “World-class golf, upscale homes and breathtaking views of the Lowcountry’s landscape.”

38

|

INTRO

K

iawah and Seabrook islands, two private resort communities south of Charleston, offer a quality of life that includes world-class golf, upscale homes and breathtaking views of the Lowcountry’s landscape.

Pottery found on Kiawah Island dates as far back as 4,000 years. Ownership of the island changed many times through the years from the Indians to the British and then to some of the earliest “Charlestonians.” Its history is linked to names you may already be familiar with: Gibbes, Vanderhorst and Middleton, to name a few.

Development of the island loosely began in the 1950s when C.C. Royal, who made his fortune in the lumber business, purchased the island. He built a home for

his wife and seven children and then sold 65 lots to friends. In 1974, the Kuwait Investment Co. purchased the island from Royal’s heirs and created a land plan that consisted of a resort and residential development.

Kiawah Development Partners is currently the master developer of the island.

Approximately 1,200 full-time residents inhabit the island, but the population swells in the spring and summer when about 600 of the island’s properties are rented.

The island is also home to the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, which includes five public golf courses and two private courses; The Sanctuary, a AAA Five Diamond hotel; an award-winning spa; and several restaurants.

In August 2012, the PGA Championship will come to Kiawah Island Golf

Living

Photo/=Leslie Burden Photo/Leslie Burden

Resort. The PGA major is expected to bring a more than $200 million economic impact to the area, including millions of dollars worth of worldwide exposure.

Outside of golf, the island also caters to tennis players and is a destination for runners each year during the annual Kiawah Island Marathon, held each December.

Seabrook Island, just across the marsh from Kiawah Island, is a 2,200-acre mix of forest, salt marshes and beach. The island was discovered by settlers in 1666 and indigo and rice were its first cash crops. The island was first called Jones Island, then Simmons Island and finally Seabrook when it was purchased by William Seabrook in 1816.

Originally developed in 1972 as a resort and conference center location, the island has evolved into a private oceanfront community. There are more than 2,500 properties on Seabrook Island and more than 700 families live on the island year-round.

There is no shortage of things to do on Seabrook Island, from golfing on two private golf courses, to playing tennis, horseback riding and boating. There are several restaurants to choose from also.

Inhabitants of both islands place a high value on the environment and have made sure that the buildings are constructed in harmony with the natural surroundings. There are also plenty of opportunities to experience the wildlife, whether strolling on the beach or exploring the waterways via kayak or canoe.

Just 30 minutes away from Charleston, the islands are close enough for a day trip into the city; however, there are several options for shopping excursions on both islands, as well as at Freshfields Village on neighboring Johns Island.

Freshfields Village offers a variety of stores, from sporting goods to groceries, as well as several restaurants.

Prior to entering Seabrook Island (top right) or Kiawah Island (right), there is Freshfields Village (bottom left and right), which offers shops, restaurants and a gas station.

Photo/Leslie Burden

Photo/Leslie Burden

INTRO | 39

berkeley county

Photo/Courtesy of Berkeley County

Living in

Berkeley County

H

istoric Berkeley County is the largest of the three counties in the Charleston metro area and one of the fastest growing in the state. Its agricultural base — dating back to the 17th century — has given way to industry as evidenced by a $600 million investment by Internet giant Google in a new data center and DuPont’s expansion of a Kevlar plant that the county won over 40 potential locations worldwide.

In addition, the entire tri-county area has benefitted from the 2009 announcement that Boeing Co. selected North Charleston as the location for its second assembly line for the 787 Dreamliner — a $750 million investment.

Major employers include the U.S. Naval Weapons Station, with nearly 18,500 employees, and Berkeley County School District, with 3,650. Several industry leaders, including Nucor Steel, J.W. Aluminum and Alcoa Mt. Holly, have earned recognition for sustainability efforts.

Sensitive to quality of life issues, the Berkeley County Planning Commission has launched an initiative to study and manage growth. Dubbed “Planning the Future While Preserving the Past,” its mission is to create a comprehensive development plan.

Indeed, quality of life is a major draw for visitors and newcomers to Berkeley County, with its temperate coastal plain climate, abundant waterways and unspoiled landscapes. A rich heritage that traces its origins to the first set-

40

|

INTRO

tlers in the Carolinas is alive today in the residents of Berkeley County and their communities — Bonneau, Goose Creek, Hanahan, Jamestown, Moncks Corner, St. Stephen and Daniel Island.

Originally the domain of European planters, county farmlands once supported rice and cotton crops. Plantations may still be seen today along tributaries of the Cooper River and some still serve as residences.

Mepkin Abbey, a former plantation perched on the river’s bluffs, now serves as home to a Trappist monastery with a garden and chapel open to the public. It is located in the town of Moncks Corner, originally a colonial trading post dating back to 1738 that took its name from landowner Thomas Monk.

Old Santee Canal Park commemorates America’s first summit canal, which began operating in 1800. In addition to tours of the historic site, the park features the Berkeley County Museum and Heritage Center. Exhibits and artifacts portray the region’s history and include Brig. Gen. Francis Marion, also known as the “Swamp Fox,” Native Americans, colonial life, the Civil War and the Francis Marion National Forest.

At Francis Beidler Forest in Four Holes Swamp, shaded boardwalks wind through ancient groves of towering cypress and Pleistocene swamps.

The forest — a National Natural Landmark — is protected and managed by the National Audubon Society and is

the largest remaining virgin black water cypress and tupelo swamp in the world.

Cypress Gardens features boat rides through black water swamps and the Berkeley Blueways offer 20 canoeing and kayaking trails. World-class waterskiing, wind surfing, sailing, boating and fishing are popular on Lake Moultrie, as well as the state’s largest lake, Lake Marion.

The Palmetto Trail, a recreational trail that stretches statewide, takes trekkers off the beaten path for a closer experience with Southern fauna and wildlife.

The active lifestyle of Berkeley County pairs well with the wide variety of residential neighborhoods available. From the small town feel of some of the county’s oldest communities to planned neighborhoods with singlefamily attached and detached homes, choices abound in every price range. Del Webb Charleston, located in Cane Bay Plantation, offers all the classic amenities for the active adult population.

Daniel Island offers a master-planned lifestyle community built on a sea island in Berkeley County. Thoughtful planning and quality execution have earned the Daniel Island Co. recognition from the Urban Land Institute and the National Association of Homebuilders for exceptional smart growth development practices. One of the hottest tickets in professional sports, the Family Circle Cup, attracts top-seeded players every year to the all-woman’s Tier I pro tennis event on Daniel Island.

Living

Living in

Summerville Photo/Leslie Burden

S

ummerville is a community that still gathers at Town Square to celebrate the 4th of July, where Friday night high school football draws a spirited crowd, and in early December, the holiday season is ushered in with an annual Christmas Tree Lighting downtown. In this modern Southern city, progress and preservation are inextricably intertwined, making it a dynamic and diverse place to live and work.

Downtown Restoration, Enhancement and Management (D.R.E.A.M.), a nonprofit group spearheaded by local residents, has done much since its inception in 1992 to bring focus and support to Summerville and its historic downtown district. The commercial area is bustling again with unique shops, a local bookstore, art galleries and eateries. Guerin’s Pharmacy —the oldest still operating in South Carolina — contains antiques, a full-service pharmacy and an old-style soda fountain that serves drug store classics like cherry and vanilla cokes, milkshakes and chili dogs.

The Summerville-Dorchester Museum documents cultural and natural history with a film and exhibits of the colonial settlers, early churches and architecture. More than 700 buildings have been placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Summerville traces its roots to the 1780s, when it was known as Pineland Village to plantation owners wanting to escape the swamp fever and insects of the Lowcountry summer. After being deemed by medical specialists in 1899 as one of the best areas in the world for lung and throat disorders, the area experienced a golden era, with special lodgings and resorts springing up to accommodate pulmonary patients. The most famous was Pine Forest Inn, which sometimes served as the Winter White House for Presidents William Howard Taft and Theodore Roosevelt.

Today, Summerville is Dorchester County’s largest city with an estimated population of more than 43,000. Named one of the 50 best small towns in America

Summerville was named one of the 50 best small towns in America by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine.

by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine, Summerville offers residents the best of both worlds in terms of quality of life and housing. Known for its stately Victorian homes, the city also offers the full spectrum of new construction options attracting families, business and military personnel to the area.

Dubbed Flower Town in the Pines, Summerville still gets high marks for natural attributes. The Flowertown Festival draws more than 200,000 people every spring for a weekend dedicated to artisans and crafts amid the profusion of blooms in Azalea Park.

The park, a 12-acre oasis of ponds, paths, fountains and tennis courts, has also been the site for one of South Carolina’s premiere outdoor arts events, Sculpture in the South.

Summerville residents take to the trails at nearby Givhans Ferry State Park, on the former site of an 18th-century ferry that once crossed the Edisto River. The

park features camping, cabins, fishing, picnic areas and river access.

At Francis Beidler Forest in Four Holes Swamp, shaded boardwalks wind through ancient groves of towering cypress and Pleistocene swamps. The forest — a National Natural Landmark — is protected and managed by the National Audubon Society and is the largest remaining virgin stand of bald cypress in the world.

Among the many fine and fun dining options in Summerville, perhaps the most famous is the Dining Room at Woodlands Resort & Inn — one of only six lodging properties in America to be awarded the Mobil Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond awards for both lodging and dining. The readers of Travel + Leisure magazine ranked Woodlands Inn No.1 in the Continental U.S. and Canada and No.3 worldwide in the 2008 World’s Best Service Awards. The property also was voted the No. 1 hotel in the magazine’s 2011 list of the World’s Best Hotel Values.

INTRO | 41

Mount P leasant

At BB&T, our local financial centers and local lenders keep us close to our clients. And our award-winning service continues to set the standard. So when you’re looking to buy, build or refinance a home in the Charleston area, look first to BB&T. Our door is always open to share more than 140 years of financial knowledge – helping thousands of clients open doors of their own. Let’s get started today. BBT.com/Mortgage

B A N K I N G

42

|

.

I N S U R A N C E

.

I N V E S T M E N T S

Branch Banking and Trust Company is a Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.

Loans are subject to credit approval. Only deposit products are FDIC insured. © 2012, Branch Banking and Trust Company. All rights reserved.

INTRO

Living

Home Mortgage

Home mortgage options you trust from the people you trust.

Chris Barlow West Ashley NMLS# 414600 843-852-5840

Maggi Bryant Summerville NMLS# 414591 843-937-6787

Betsy Good Seabrook Island NMLS# 415266 843-768-9629

Amanda Powell Peuser Mt. Pleasant NMLS# 415446 843-971-3007

Debbie Malone James Island NMLS# 415485 843-406-6654

Cindy Shelor Mt. Pleasant North NMLS# 415636 843-388-1007

Pete McLaughlin Goose Creek NMLS# 415459 843-720-5102

Steve Ross Charleston NMLS# 415558 843-720-5125

Nick Wagner North Charleston NMLS# 415734 843-720-5189

John Seel Daniel Island NMLS# 415704 843-971-7218

Sandy Darling West Ashley NMLS# 796974 843-852-5855

Mortgage products are offered through Branch Banking and Trust Company, a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

Only deposit products are FDIC insured. Loans subject to credit approval. BBT.com. Š2012 Branch Banking and Trust Company.

INTRO | 43

Sports and Recreation Photo/Ryan Wilcox

From surfing to ice hockey, you name it, the Lowcountry has it.

T

he Lowcounty’s coastal environment makes outdoor life here a special draw, but its sports and recreation scene doesn’t end with beachgoing.

The area boasts three professional teams, three small college athletic programs, excellent venues and dozens of amateur recreational leagues in a variety of sports.

Folly Beach is generally considered one of the best surfing destinations on the East Coast, and dedicated wave riders keep track of conditions at its storied “Washout” via webcam. Waves at the Isle of Palms aren’t quite as powerful, but East Cooper surfers swear by them.

Sullivan’s Island waves are inadequate for surfing, but kiteboarding is a popular alternative.

Kayaking has been a popular local sport for years, and outfitters along Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant cater to locals and tourists alike.

Remote islands in the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge are a draw for many, but others prefer to drive south of Charleston and strike out into the blackwater wilderness of the pristine and sprawling ACE Basin or head farther inland to explore the swamps and groves of Dorchester County.

Sailing — either competitive or contemplative — has been a Lowcountry passion since antebellum days. Charleston Race Week, a three-day regatta sponsored by the Charleston Ocean Racing Association, draws more than 1,500 sailors to the Charleston Harbor every April. The College of Charleston and The Citadel both field competitive sailing teams. The local sailing season ends in August with the Rockville Regatta, a tradition for more than 100 years.

Recreational boating — particularly as it relates to fishing — takes up much of the calendar and deep sea charters are available from Shem Creek and other locations.

Charleston County runs a fishing pier 44 | INTRO

at Folly Beach and in Mount Pleasant at the Memorial Waterfront Park, and surf casters land sizable fish every year. Locals dip for crabs in tidal creeks all summer and shrimp-baiting season typically runs from September to November.

Hunters flock to inland private game preserves and public game lands each fall in the Francis Marion National Forest and the ACE Basin.

Fall and winter are also the best time for hiking and biking in the local forests.

Running has grown in popularity since the founding of the Cooper River Bridge Run in 1978, but received a healthy boost in 2005 when the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge opened with a pedestrian/bicyclist lane. The Bridge Run takes place each April, attracting worldclass 10k runners and tens of thousands of amateur athletes and walkers. The race begins near Shem Creek and finishes in downtown Charleston. Kiawah Island hosts an annual marathon and half-marathon, and there are organized races throughout the year in various locations across the region.

In recent years, triathlons have been proliferating, many of them taking advantage of the region’s open water for the swimming legs.

The area’s flat roads make for fast cycling. The Lowcountry hosts a series of popular cycling events, including criterion races at Charleston’s Hampton Park, 100k and 100-mile “century” rides in the Francis Marion National Forest and group rides that make use of the long, shady roads on Johns Island. Johns Island is also home to the Mullet Hall Equestrian Center.

Most municipalities in the area offer recreational leagues, but amateur youth and adult baseball/softball leagues are extremely popular in Mount Pleasant, Summerville, Goose Creek and the St. Andrews District west of Charleston. Gahagan Park in Summerville is a softball shrine. Mount Pleasant, which is riddled with ballfields, opened an extensive recreation complex at Dunes West earlier this decade and has been expanding it ever since.

Soccer is popular in the suburban areas, and recreation departments in some locations run the football leagues for their local public and private middle schools.

Guide

Sports and Recreation Photo/Leslie Burden Photo/Courtesy of The Sting Rays

Photo/Courtesy of Family Circle Cup

Photo/Leslie Burden

Mount Pleasant’s youth football season begins each year with a massing of the teams and a series of 15-minute scrimmages at Wando Stadium. It concludes with a well-attended town championship game.

Summerville’s Memorial Stadium is a high school football shrine, home to the Summerville High School Green Wave. Young players in southern Dorchester County are groomed from elementary school to play for one of the district’s two high schools.

Charleston Southern University, between Summerville and North Charleston, competes in the Big South Conference, while The Citadel and the College of Charleston are members of the storied Southern Conference.

The Citadel’s football team moved into a new and improved Johnson Hagood Stadium in 2008, while the College of Charleston opened its 5,000-seat Carolina First Arena basketball facility later that fall.

The Citadel sports thrive on tradition and pageantry, while “CofC” basketball has developed a reputation as a mid-major “giant-killer,” with a history of upsetting high-ranked teams. Both Southern Conference schools have an outstanding history of success in baseball.

Professional baseball in Charleston dates back to 1886 and the city has been associated with the South Atlantic League off and on for more than 100 years. The city is currently represented by the Class A Charleston RiverDogs, a member of the New York Yankees farm system.

The RiverDogs play in Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park, known by locals as “The Joe.” It overlooks the Ashley River and was considered one of the finest ballparks in America when it opened in 1997.

The Carolina Stingrays, a member of the East Coast Hockey League affiliated with the Washington Capitals, have played at the North Charleston Coliseum since 1993. That same year also saw the founding of the Charleston Battery, a member of the United Soccer Leagues’ First Division. The Battery plays at Blackbaud Stadium on Daniel Island.

Daniel Island is also home to the Family Circle Tennis Center where its namesake tournament is held each year. The state-of-the-art stadium and surrounding courts were built in 2000 and are also used as a public tennis center.

Opposite top: A Charleston RiverDogs game at The Joe.

Above left: Family Circle Cup Stadium on Daniel Island.

Top: A bike lane and pedestrian lane were included on the construction of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and it is used daily by many residents and visitors alike.

Above right: The ECHL Stingrays.

Above: Charleston’s waterways offer many opportunities for kayaking.

INTRO | 45

Photo/Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Tee Time

C

Golf Courses Daniel Island: The Daniel Island Club (843-971-3555) offers two private, non-equity courses: Beresford Creek Course and the highly-rated Ralston Creek Course.

James Island: There are 60,000 rounds of golf played at Charleston Municipal Golf Course (843-795-6517) every year. The Country Club of Charleston (843795-2400) is private.

Edisto Island: The Plantation Course at Edisto (843-869-1111) is a top-ranked public course.

Johns Island: The Golf Club at Briar’s Creek (843-768-3050) is an award-winning, private nonequity course.

Goose Creek: There are two 18-hole public courses in town, Crowfield Golf & Country Club (843-764-4618) and Redbank Plantation Golf Course (843-7647802). The Oaks Golf & Country Club (843-553-4191) is an 18-hole, par-35 public course.

Hollywood: The Links at Stono Ferry (843-763-1817) is public and a local favorite.

Isle of Palms: Wild Dunes Resort (843-886-2164) has two public courses, the Harbor Course and the highly regarded Links Course.

46 | INTRO

Kiawah Island: This resort community is built around golf. Its Kiawah Island Club River Course (843-768-6120) is a private non-equity award-winner. Cassique Golf Club (843-768-6120) is equally well-regarded as a private equity course. Kiawah Island Resort offers five public choices: The Ocean Course (843-768-2121), which is ranked among the Top 100 courses in America; the award-winning Osprey Point Course (843-768-2121); the five-star Turtle Point Course (843-768-2121), the four-star Cougar Point Course (843-768-

harleston is literally the birthplace of golf in America and today features numerous places to play and several award-winning courses.

This August, the 2012 PGA Championship will be held at the Ocean Course on Kiawah Island, designed by Pete Dye. More than 200,000 people are expected to attend the tournament.

Charlestonians first teed it up in 1786 on the peninsula on a course they called Harleston Green at the South Carolina Golf Club.

While this original golf course no longer exists, the city is still actively involved in the game. The Charleston Municipal Golf Course, a.k.a. “The Muni,” opened in 1929 on James Island and now books 60,000 rounds of golf every year.

No matter where you live in the Lowcountry, golf is just a short drive away.

2121), and the Oak Point Course (843-768-7431).

Moncks Corner: The 18-hole Berkeley Country Club (843-7614880) is a public course, as is the nine-hole Cypress Point Par 3 (843-761-5599).

Mount Pleasant: Rivertowne Country Club (843-849-2400) is an award-winning public course.

Charleston National Country Club (843-884-4653) and Dunes West Golf Club (843-856-9000) are highly rated and public. Patriots Point Links on Charleston Harbor (843-881-0042) is an affordable public course with great scenery. Snee Farm Country Club (843-884-8571) is a private nonequity course.

North Charleston: Yeamans Hall Country Club (843-747-8855), located on North Charleston’s boundary with neighboring Hanahan, is an award-winning, top-ranked course. Wrenwoods

Golf Club (843-963-1833) is a private, non-equity course. Coosaw Creek Country Club (843-7679000) is semi-private.

Seabrook Island: The private equity Club at Seabrook Island (843-768-2529) offers two courses: Crooked Oaks and Ocean Winds.

Summerville: The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation (843-8712135) is Summerville’s municipal golf facility, offering three public nine-hole courses: Burn Kill, Black Robin and Oak Forest.

Legend Oaks Plantation Golf Club (843-821-4077), Pine Forest Country Club (843-851-1193) and Summerville Country Club (843-873-2210) are 18-hole public courses.

West Ashley: Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club (843-556-8251) is a public course in a subdivision.

Guide

Dining Guide The following list is just a taste of the many restaurants in the region you can enjoy. Please call ahead to check days and hours of operation.

CHARLESTON Amen Street Fish and Raw Bar 205 East Bay St. 843-853-8600 Andolini’s Pizza 82 Wentworth St. 843-722-7437 East Bay Deli 334 East Bay St. 843-723-1234 Fig Restaurant 232 Meeting St. 843-805-5900

Juanita Greenbergs Nacho Royal 439 King St. 843-723-6224

Fleet Landing 186 Concord St. 843-722-8100

Hanks Seafood Restaurant 10 Hayne St. 843-723-3474

Fulton Five 5 Fulton St. 843-853-5555

High Cotton 199 East Bay St. 843-724-3815

Jim & Nick’s BBQ 288 King St. 843-577-0406

Gilroys Pizza Pub 353 King St. 843-937-9200

Hominy Grill 207 Rutledge Ave. 843-937-0930

Library at the Vendue 23 Vendue Range 843-577-7970

Fish 442 King St. 843-722-3474

Husk

Magnolia’s 185 East Bay St., Suite 100 843-577-7771

Five Loaves Cafe 43 Cannon St. 843-937-4303

Il Cortile Del Re 193 King St., Suite A 843-853-1888

76 Queen St. 843-577-2500

Jestine’s Kitchen 251 Meeting St. 843-722-7224

Marina Variety Store 17 Lockwood Blvd.

843-723-6325

Market Pavilion Hotel 225 East Bay St. 843-723-0500 McCrady’s 2 Unity Alley 843-577-0061 Oak Steakhouse 17 Broad St. 843-722-4220 O-Ku Restaurant 463 King St. 843-37-0112 Pearlz Oyster Bar 153 East Bay St. 843-577-5755 Peninsula Grill 112 Market St., Suite N 843-723-0700

INTRO | 47

Dining guide Poogan’s Porch 72 Queen St. 843-577-2337 Santi’s Restaurante Mexicano 1302 Meeting Street Road 843-722-2633 Sermet’s Corner 276 King St. 843-853-7775 Ted’s Butcher Block 334 East Bay St., Suite K 843-577-0094 Tristan Restaurant LLC 55 South Market St. 843-534-2155

ISLE OF PALMS Acme Cantina 31 J.C. Long Blvd.

843-886-0024 Boathouse Restaurant at Breach Inlet 101 Palm Blvd.

843-886-8000 Long Island Cafe Inc. 1515 Palm Blvd., Suite A 843-886-8809 Morgan Creek Grill 80 41st Ave. 843-886-8980 Sea Biscuit Cafe LLC 21 J.C. Long Blvd.

843-886-4079 Sea Island Grill 5757 Palm Blvd.

843-886-2200

MOUNT PLEASANT 17 North 3563 North Highway 17 843-606-2144

48 | INTRO

Ali Baba Mediterranean Cuisine 920 Houston Northcutt Blvd.

843-388-0683 Andolini’s Pizza 414 Coleman Blvd.

843-849-7437 Bambu 604 Coleman Blvd.

843-284-8229 Boulevard Diner 409 Coleman Blvd.

843-216-2611 Charleston Harbor Hilton 20 Patriots Point Road 843-856-0028 CJ’s Catering/ Gullah Cuisine 1717 Highway 17 North 843-881-9076 Five Loaves Cafe 1055 Johnnie Dodds Blvd.

843-849-1043 Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill 644 Long Point Road 843-856-5798 Graze 863 Houston Northcutt 843-606-2493 Giuseppi’s Pizza & Pasta 1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd.

843-856-2525 Iacofano Deli 626 Coleman Blvd.

843-881-2313 Ichiban Restaurant 909 Houston Northcutt Blvd.

843-849-8121 Jack’s Cosmic Dogs 2805 Highway 17 North 843-884-7677

Juanita Greenberg’s Nacho Royal 410 West Coleman Blvd.

843-329-6224 Langdon’s Restaurant 778 S. Shellmore Blvd.

843-388-9200 Melvin’s Southern BBQ 925 Houston Northcutt Blvd.

843-881-0549 Moe’s Southwest Grill 900 Houston Northcutt Blvd.

843-388-0101 Mustard Seed Restaurant 1036 Chuck Dawley Blvd.

843-849-0050 Pattaya Restaurant 607 Johnnie Dodds Blvd.

843-856-1808 Sakyo Japanese 1150 E. Hungryneck Blvd.

843-881-8580 Sette 201 Coleman Blvd.

843-388-8808 Skoogie’s 840 Coleman Blvd.

843-442-5185 Square Onion 18 Resolute Lane, Suite B 843-856-4246

Madra Rua Irish Pub 1034 East Montague Ave. 843-554-2522

Gene’s Haufbrau 817 Savannah Highway 843-225-4363

Sesame Burgers & Beer 4726 State Road S-10-32 843-554-4903

Glass Onion 1219 Savannah Highway 843-225-1717

SEABROOK ISLAND Lucy’s Red Sky Grill 1001 Landfall Way 843-768-0183

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND Atlanticville Restaurant & Café 2063 Middle St. 843-883-9452 Dunleavy’s Pub 2213 Middle St. 843-883-9646 High Thyme 2213 Middle St., Suite C 843-883-3536 Poe’s Tavern 2210 Middle St., Suite C 843-883-0083 Station 22 Inc. 2205 Middle St. 843-883-3355 Sugar Shack 2213 Middle St., Suite C 843-883-8811

Wreck of Richard & Charlene 106 Haddrell St. 843-884-0052

Sullivan’s Restaurant 2019 Middle St. 843-883-3222

NORTH CHARLESTON

WEST ASHLEY

Cork Neighborhood Bistro 1067 East Montague Ave. 843-225-2675

Al Di La 25 Magnolia Road 843-571-2321

Evo Pizza 1075 East Montague Ave. 843-225-1796

Andolini’s Pizza 1117 Savannah Highway 843-225-5200

Mellow Mushroom 19 Magnolia Road 843-747-4992 Joy Luck Chinese 1303 Ashley River Road 843-573-8899 Nirlep India Restaurant 908 Savannah Highway 843-763-9923 Olympic Restaurant & Bakery 1922 Savannah Highway 843-556-9359 Osaka Restaurant 100 Folly Road 843-852-9979 Panda Palace 1119 Wappoo Road 843-763-7472 Pearlz Little Oyster Bar 9 Magnolia Road 843-573-2277 Red Orchid China Bistro 1401 Sam Rittenberg Blvd.

843-573-8787 Rococo German Bakery 1750 Savannah Highway, #A 843-763-2055 Taste of India 851 Savannah Highway 843-556-0772

Triangle Char & Bar 828 Savannah Highway 843-377-1300 Voodoo Tiki Bar & Lounge 15 Magnolia Road 843-769-0228

Guide

Places to Stay The following list is just a sample of the many places to stay in the region.

Berkeley County Holiday Inn Express Summerville 120 Holiday Drive Summerville, SC 29483 843-875-3300 www.hiexpress.com/summervillesc

Charleston County 1807 Phoebe Pember House & Studio 26 Society St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-4186

www.phoebepemberhouse.com

1843 Battery Carriage House Inn 20 South Battery Charleston, SC 29401 843-727-3100 www.batterycarriagehouse.com

Aloft Charleston Airport and Convention Center 4875 Tanger Outlet Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 843-566-7300

www.alofthotels.com/charlestonairport

Andrew Pinckney Inn 40 Pinckney St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-937-8800

www.andrewpinckneyinn.com

Best Western Charleston Downtown 146 Lockwood Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29403-5123 843-722-4000 www.charlestonbestwestern.com

Best Western King Charles Inn 237 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-7451 www.kingcharlesinn.com

Best Western Sweetgrass Inn 1540 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-571-6100 www.thesweetgrassinn.com

The Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes Resort 5757 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451 888.845.8880 www.wilddunesmeetings.com

Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina 20 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-856-0028

www.charlestonharborresort.com

Charleston Marriott 170 Lockwood Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29403 843-723-3000 www.marriott.com/chsmc

Charleston Place 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-4900

www.charlestonplacehotel.com

Comfort Suites West of the Ashley 2080 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-769-9850

www.choicehotels.com/hotel/SC369

Courtyard by Marriott CharlestonMount Pleasant 1251 Woodland Ave. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-284-0900 www.marriott.com/chscm

Crowne Plaza Charleston Airport Convention Center 4831 Tanger Outlet Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 843-744-4442

Hampton Inn & Suites 1104 Isle of Palms Connector Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-856-3900

www.crowneplaza.com/charleston

www.charlestonisleofpalmssuites. hamptoninn.com

Doubletree Guest Suites Charleston Historic District 181 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-577-2644

Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston/ West Ashley 678 Citadel Haven Drive Charleston, SC 29414 843-573-1200

www.charlestondoubletree.com

Embassy Suites Airport/Convention Center 5055 International Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 843-747-1882 www.embassysuitescharleston.com

Embassy Suites Historic Charleston 337 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-723-6900 www.historiccharleston.embassysuites. com

Fairfield Inn & Suites Charleston Airport/Convention Center 4841 Tanger Outlet Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 843-300-3100 www.marriott.com/chscs

Francis Marion Hotel 387 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-722-0600

www.francismarioncharleston.com

French Quarter Inn 166 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-1900 www.fqicharleston.com

Fulton Lane Inn 202 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-720-2600

www.charlestonwestashleysuites. hamptoninn.com

Hampton Inn & Suites North Charleston/University Blvd.

2688 Fernwood Drive North Charleston, SC 26406 843-735-7500

www.northcharlestonuniversityblvdsuites.hamptoninn.com

Hampton Inn Charleston Historic District 345 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-723-4000 www.charlestonhistoricdistrict.hamptoninn.com

Hampton Inn Daniel Island 160 Fairchild St. Charleston, SC 29492 843-216-6555

www.charlestondanielisland.hamptoninn.com

Harbour View Inn 2 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401 843-853-8439

www.harbourviewcharleston.com

Hawthorn Suites 2455 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29414 843-225-4411 www.hawthorn.com

www.fultonlaneinn.com

INTRO | 49

Places to Stay

Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview 301 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-556-7100 www.hiriverview.com

Holiday Inn Charleston-Mount Pleasant 250 Johnnie Dodds Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-6000 www.himtpleasant.com

Holiday Inn Express 1943 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-402-8300

www.hiexpresscharleston.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston Ashley Phosphate 7670 Northwoods Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29406 843-553-1600 www.hiexpress.com/chastni-26

Holiday Inn Express Mount Pleasant 350 Johnnie Dodds Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-375-2600

www.hiexpress.com/mtpleasantsc

Holiday Inn Express-North Charleston 8975 Elms Center Road North Charleston, SC 29406 843-569-3200

www.hiexpress.com/charleston-n

Homewood Suites by Hilton Charleston Convention Center/ Airport 5048 International Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29418 843-735-5000

www.charlestonairport.homewoodsuites. com

Homewood Suites by Hilton, Charleston/Mount Pleasant 1998 Riviera Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-6950

www.charlestonmtpleasant.homewoodsuites.com 50 | INTRO

Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/ Convention Center 3234 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418 843-302-8600

www.charlestonairport.place.hyatt.com

Hyatt Place North Charleston 7331 Mazyck Road North Charleston, SC 29406 843-735-7100

www.northcharleston.place.hyatt.com

John Rutledge House Inn 116 Broad St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-7999

www.johnrutledgehouseinn.com

Kings Courtyard Inn 198 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-7000

www.kingscourtyardinn.com

Meeting Street Inn 173 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-1882 www.meetingstreetinn.com

The Mills House Hotel 115 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-577-2400 www.millshouse.com

Quality Inn & Suites at Patriots Point 196 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-856-8817 www.choicehotels.com

Residence Inn by Marriott Charleston Mount Pleasant 1116 Isle of Palms Connector Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-1599 www.marriott.com/chsmp

Residence Inn Charleston Airport 5035 International Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 843-266-3434 www.marriott.com/chsno

Restoration on King 75 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401

www.northcharlestoninn.com

The Palms Hotel 1126 Ocean Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-886-3003 www.palmscharleston.com

Planters Inn 112 N. Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-2345 www.plantersinn.com

www.sleepinn.com

Tides Folly Beach 1 Center St. Folly Beach, SC 29439 843-588-6464 www.tidesfollybeach.com

Town & Country Inn and Conference Center 2008 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-571-1000

www.thetownandcountryinn.com

The Vendue Inn 19 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401 843-577-7970

www.restorationonking.com

www.vendueinn.com

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 843-768-6000

Wentworth Mansion 149 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-853-1886

www.kiawahresort.com

Shem Creek Inn 1401 Shrimp Boat Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-1000

www.wentworthmansion.com

Wingate by Wyndham at Charleston Southern University 9280 University Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29406 843-553-4444

www.shemcreekinn.com

www.charlestonwingate.com

Shem Creek Inn 1401 Shrimp Boat Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-1000

Zero Water Street Bed & Breakfast 31 East Battery Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-2841

The North Charleston Inn

2934 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418 843-744-8281

Sleep Inn of Charleston 1524 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-556-6959

www.shemcreekinn.com

www.zerowaterstreet.com

Sheraton Charleston Airport Hotel 4770 Goer Drive North Charleston, SC 29406 843-747-1900 www.SheratonCharleston.com

Sleep Inn North

7435 Northside Drive North Charleston, SC 29420 843-572-8400 www.sleepinn.com

Dorchester County Woodlands Inn 125 Parsons Road Summerville, SC 29483 843-875-2600 www.woodlandsinn.com

Guide

Photo/Leslie Burden

arts abound

The depth and breadth of Charleston’s arts scene just may surprise you. From established galleries and historic theaters to funky festivals and improv comedy, the Holy City and surrounding areas have it all. The following is just a small selection of what’s available to spark and satisfy your artistic cravings.

Visual arts Artistic Spirit Gallery Artistic Spirit Gallery, located at the Navy Yard at Noisette, features wellknown artists’ work and “outsider art,” — pieces created by self-taught, emerging artists. Call for an appointment.

10 Storehouse Row, Charleston, 843-579-0149. www.artisticspiritgallery

Carolina Galleries This Church Street gallery focuses on two distinct periods in Charleston history: First, the Charleston Renaissance, which took place during the first half of the 20th century and features artwork inspired by the beauty and war-ravaged Lowcountry.

And second, 21st-century Charleston, which includes more recent paintings that capture the personality of the region, from its historic streets to quintessential marsh scenes.

106-A Church St., 843-720-8622. www.carolinagalleries.com

Charleston Fine Art Dealers’ Association

Cedric Watson & Bijou Creole perform at the 2012 Spoleto Festival USA finale.

Created in 1999, the Charleston Fine Art Dealers’ Association now includes 13 galleries. The association hosts Palette and Stroll each July, an evening dedicated to fine art, cuisine and wine. It also hosts the Fine Art Annual, a weekend event held each November that features national artists and raises funds to support art programs in local schools. www.cfada.com

INTRO | 51

Arts abound

City Gallery at Waterfront Park

New Perspectives Gallery

Charleston Ballet Theatre

The City Gallery presents six to eight exhibits each year focusing on contemporary visual arts created by local, regional, national and international artists.

34 Prioleau St., Charleston, 843-958-6484. http://citygalleryatwaterfrontpark.com/

Features curated exhibitions by Charleston area artists and special exhibits during the Piccolo Spoleto Festival and MOJA Arts Festival. 180 Meeting St., Charleston, 843-958-6459.

During the last 20 years, the Charleston Ballet Theatre has achieved national recognition for its artistic and professional presentations of a range of works from classic to eclectic. 477 King St., Charleston.

843-723-7334. www.charlestonballet.org

French Quarter Gallery Association

Located in the common areas at the Charleston Area Convention Center, the North Charleston City Gallery features exhibits that are rotated on a monthly basis.

5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston, 843-745-1087. www.northcharleston.org

Roughly 30 galleries are members of the French Quarter Gallery Association.

The galleries stay open late the first Friday night in March, May, October and December for the very popular Art Walks. Free. 843-805-8052. www.frenchquarterarts.com

Gallery Chuma Specializing in the works of the Gullah people of coastal South Carolina, Gallery Chuma features Gullah art, books, crafts, storytelling, tours and food. 43 John St., Charleston, 843-722-7568. www.gallerychuma.com

Gibbes Museum of Art As Charleston’s only visual arts museum, the Gibbes also offers a variety of educational programs, group tours and art discovery walking tours. 135 Meeting St., Charleston. 843-7222706. www.gibbesmuseum.org

Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art Administered by the School of the Arts at the College of Charleston, the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art was created to advocate, exhibit and interpret visual art, with an emphasis on contemporary art. 54 St. Philip St., Charleston, 843-9535680. http://halsey.cofc.edu/index.php

MOJA Arts Festival Started in 1984, the annual MOJA Arts Festival is a celebration of African American and Caribbean arts and features music, visual art, storytelling, performances, crafts, children’s activities and more. 843724-7305. www.mojafestival.com

52 | INTRO

North Charleston City Gallery

Piccolo Spoleto

Charleston Music Hall Said to offer some of the best acoustics in Charleston, the Charleston Music Hall welcomes a variety of performers throughout the year from bluegrass to blues. 37 John St., Charleston. www.charlestonmusichall.com

Piccolo Spoleto was created in 1979 to coincide with the international Spoleto Festival USA and primarily features artists from the Southeast.

Held at a variety of locations in downtown Charleston. 843-724-7305. www.piccolospoleto.com

Charleston Stage

Spoleto Festival USA

Founded in 1936, the Charleston Symphony Orchestra is known its Masterworks and Pops series, the CSO also offers holiday performances and family concerts throughout the year.

Concerts are held at various locations around Charleston including the Gaillard Auditorium and the Memminger Auditorium. 572 Savannah Highway, Suite 100, Charleston. 843-723-7528. www.charlestonsymphony.com

Held each spring since 1977, this 17-day festival features visual art exhibits and more than 120 performances from opera to jazz music. 843-722-2764; box office: 843-579-3100. www.spoletousa.org

Performing arts The Actors’ Theatre of South Carolina Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Charleston, members of the Actors’ Theatre travel the state presenting a full season of performances as well as acting classes.

843-588-9636. www.actorstheatreofsc.org

American Theater The American Theatre opened in 1942 as one of Charleston’s premiere movie houses. It closed in 1977 and stood vacant for 20 years until it was revitalized and reopened in 2005 as a state-of-the-art meeting and conference facility. It also hosts a variety of performances, including Spoleto activities. 446 King St., Charleston.

843-853-0246. www.pphgcharleston.com

Charleston Stage, which calls the newly renovated Dock Street Theatre home, was founded in 1978 and is the state’s largest professional theatre company.

843-577-7183. www.charlestonstage.com

Charleston Symphony Orchestra

The Dock Street Theatre The historic Dock Street Theatre reopened after undergoing a three-year, $20 million renovation. The theatre originally opened in 1736 and was the first building built specifically for theatrical productions. It is a performance venue for Spoleto Festival USA and home of Charleston Stage.

135 Church St., Charleston. 843-720-3968. www.charlestoncity.info

Flowertown Players This community theater presents a range of productions from musicals to serious dramas, as well as performances and classes just for children. 133 S. Main St., Summerville. 843-875-9251. www.flowertownplayers.org

Guide

Photo/Leslie Burden

The Del McCoury Band perform at the 2011 Spoleto Festival USA finale.

Footlight Players Theatre

Memminger Auditorium

PURE Theatre

Since 1931, the Footlight Players Theatre has presented a variety of stage products and has become known as one of the top community theatres in the South. A typical season includes six performances.

20 Queen St., Charleston. 843-722-4487. http://footlightplayers.net/

Built in the 1930s as an auditorium for Memminger High School, the building stood vacant since the 1960s and was severely damaged by Hurricane Hugo.

Spoleto Festival USA played a large part in the building’s recent $6 million renovation and the facility reopened in 2008. Now used for a variety of performances from international artists performing as part of Spoleto, to local school groups. 56 Beaufain St., Charleston.

PURE Theatre performs at the Circular Congregational Church and has gained respect as a small professional theatre focusing on the works of contemporary playwrights. 150 Meeting St., Charleston, 843-723-4444. www.puretheatre.org

The Gaillard Municipal Auditorium Built in 1968, the Gaillard hosts a multitude of events and performances from rock ‘n’ roll concerts to fashion shows.

77 Calhoun St., Charleston, 843-577-7400. www.charlestoncity.info

The Have Nots!

Comedy Improv Called the longest-running show in Charleston, The Have Nots! cast has been together for 153 years and performed more than 1,200 shows. Local shows are held at Theatre 99, the group’s own theatre, as well as other locations throughout Charleston. 280 Meeting St., Charleston.

843-853-6687. http://theatre99.com/

North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center The North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center have hosted numerous events from hockey games to Broadway shows throughout the year. The coliseum seats more than 13,000 for a concert performance. The Performing Arts Center seats 2,300.

5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston, 843-529-5011. www.coliseumpac.com

Sottile Theatre The Sottile Theatre opened in 1922 as The Gloria Theatre and hosted the premiere of “Gone With the Wind” in 1939. It’s now the home of various performances, including Charleston Symphony Orchestra concerts and Spoleto Festival performances.

44 George St., Charleston, 843-953-5623. http://sottile.cofc.edu/

Village Playhouse Open since 2001, the Village Playhouse and Repertory Company offer more than 150 nights of entertainment each season. Classics, as well as new dramas and musicals, can be experienced within a venue that features small, candlelit tables rather than auditorium seating.

730 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant, 843856-1579. www.thevillageplayhouse.com INTRO | 53

Photo/Courtesy of Leslie Burden

attractions and tours Aiken-Rhett House

Marines and Coast Guard. The museum is located in the Aquarium Wharf. 360 Charleston merchant John Robinson built the Aiken-Rhett House in 1817 and sold it to Concord St., Charleston. 843-577-7000. www.americanmilitarymuseum.org William Aiken Sr. in 1827. Aiken’s son and namesake moved into the property with his new bride in 1833. William Aiken Jr. was Angel Oak one of the state’s wealthiest citizens and Located on Johns Island, the masserved as governor from 1844-1846. The sive and majestic Angel Oak has been home remained in the Aiken family until the shading the ground beneath it for an 1970s, when it was donated to the Charles- estimated 1,500 years. It has a circumton Museum and subsequently purchased ference of 25 1/2 feet; its branches by the Historic Charleston Foundation. reach out 160 feet from the trunk and 48 Elizabeth St. 843-723-1159 cover 17,000 square feet. 3688 Angel www.historiccharleston.org Oak Road, Charleston. 843-559-3496. www.angeloaktree.org

American Military Museum

Since 1987, the American Museum has offered military buffs the chance to view authentic artifacts from 14 different American conflicts. Pieces represent the Revolutionary War through the recent war in Iraq. More than 70 cases display 260 uniforms, 33 flags, medals and hundreds of artifacts from the Army, Navy, Air Force, 54 | INTRO

Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens Experience what plantation life was like in the 1800s at one of America’s oldest working plantations. At one time, Boone Hall produced cotton and pecans, but today, the main crops are strawberries, peaches and other fruits and vegetables. Tour the

plantation house, slave cabins and gardens, and don’t forget to stop by the U-Pick fields before you head home. 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. 843-884-4371. www.boonehallplantation.com

Carolina Heritage Outfitters Focusing on canoe and kayak tours of the Edisto River and Bull Island, Carolina Heritage Outfitters offers 10-mile day trips and 22-mile overnight trips where you can spend the night in a private tree house.

Highway 15, Canadys. 843-563-5051. www.canoesc.com

Carolina Ice Palace Home of the Stingrays, Carolina Ice Palace also offers public skating and lessons. 7665 Northwoods Blvd., Charleston.

843-572-2717. www.carolinaicepalace.com

Caw Caw Nature History and Interpretive Center Located south of Charleston in Ravenel,

Guide

the Caw Caw Interpretive Center was once part of several rice plantations.

It offers interpretive exhibits and programs, as well as more than 6 miles of trails with elevated boardwalks through the wetlands. 5200 Savannah Highway, Ravenel. 843-889-8898. www.ccprc.com

The Citadel Archives & Museum

Charles Pinckney Historic Site

The Confederate Museum

Charles Pinckney, one of the signers of the U.S. Constitution, owned a coastal plantation in what is now Mount Pleasant.

The 715-acre plantation is now a national historic site and includes a walking trail, archeological excavations and a visitor center. 1254 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. 843-881-5516. www.nps.gov/chpi

History buffs won’t want to miss a trip to the Confederate Museum, located on the second floor of the recently renovated City Market Hall. 188 Meeting St., Charleston. 843-723-1541. www.csa-scla. org/articles/ConfederateMuseum.htm

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Park Rebuilt in 2006, Charles Towne Landing focuses on its rich history as the location of the first permanent European settlement in South Carolina. Explore the park’s new visitor’s center, museum and archaeology exhibit. Experience the natural habitat zoo, 80 acres of gardens and a replica of a 17th-century ship. 1500 Old Towne Road, Charleston. 843-852-4200. www.southcarolinaparks.com

The Charleston Museum Charleston is a city of many firsts, including America’s first museum. Founded in 1773, the museum provides an authentic look into the history of Charleston and the Lowcountry. In addition to the museum, you can explore two houses listed as National Historic Landmarks: The Joseph Manigault House and the Heyward-Washington House. 360 Meeting St., Charleston. 843722-2996. www.charlestonmuseum.org

Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry Since opening in September of 2003, the Children’s Museum has seen more than 450,000 visitors. It features eight interactive exhibits and offers something for children ages 3 months to 12 years. 25 Ann St., Charleston. 843853-8962. www.explorecml.org

Featuring memorabilia from special events, cadet uniforms and more, the Citadel Museum represents the history of The Military College of South Carolina. 171 Moultrie St., Charleston. 843953-6846. www.citadel.edu/museum

Cypress Gardens Once one of the area’s largest rice plantations, Cypress Gardens is now a pristine black water swamp that has served as a location for several movies, including “The Notebook” and “The Patriot.” Walk along the scenic trails or take a boat through the swamp to experience the towering cypress and tupelo trees. 3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner. 843-553-0515. www.cypressgardens.info

Drayton Hall Drayton Hall stands apart from other historic properties in that the house is not furnished, allowing the imagination to run wild. Drayton Hall’s mission is to maintain the look and feel the plantation had when it was turned over to the National Trust in 1974. 3380 Ashley River Road, Charleston. 843-769-2600. www.draytonhall.org

Edisto Beach State Park Located just an hour south of Charleston, Edisto Beach State Park offers an oceanfront campground as well as a maritime forest full of live oaks and some of the state’s tallest palmetto trees. State Cabin Road, Edisto Island. 843-869-2756. www.southcarolinaparks.com

Edisto Island Museum Established in 1990, the Edisto Island Museum is run by the Edisto Island Historic Preservation Society.

The museum recounts the island’s history through a variety of exhibits. 8123 Chisolm Plantation Road, Edisto Island.

843-869-1954. www.edistomuseum.com

Edisto Island Serpentarium & Gift Shop Learn about reptiles that are native to the region, as well as those from around the world at the Edisto Island Serpentarium. Explore the indoor and outdoor exhibits and watch alligators and turtles swim in the outdoor ponds. 1374 Highway 174, Edisto Island. 843-8691171. www.edistoserpentarium.com

Fort Moultrie Fort Moultrie, located on Sullivan’s Island across from Fort Sumter, has been restored to reflect the major events in the fort’s history, from World War II to the American Revolution. 1214 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island. 843-883-3123. www.nps.gov/fomo

Fort Sumter Fort Sumter is known as the site where the American Revolution began. Take a boat ride from Charleston or Mount Pleasant to the fort where you can walk right up to thick brick walls built to withstand cannon fire. Park rangers are available to answer questions and a museum offers a host of artifacts. 843-883-3123. www.nps.gov/fosu

H.L. Hunley The H.L. Hunley was the first submarine to ever sink an enemy ship. It was lost at sea for 137 years and found just outside the Charleston Harbor in 1995 by author and adventurer Clive Cussler.

It was raised from the sand and silt in 2000 and can be viewed on the weekends at the Warren Lasch Conservation Center. 1250 Supply St., North Charleston. 877-448-6539. www.hunley.org

International Center for Birds of Prey The Center for Birds of Prey is dedicated to studying the welfare of birds and their habitats with the mission to educate the public on environmental issues that impact birds and humans. The center treats nearly 400 injured birds of prey each year. Open every day for tours except major holidays.

4872 Seewee Road, Awendaw. 843-9717474. www.thecenterforbirdsofprey.org

INTRO | 55

Attractions and tours Isle of Palms County Park

Morris Island Lighthouse

This oceanfront park offers picnic tables, a playground, a volleyball court and beach chair rentals. One 14th Ave., Isle of Palms. 843-886-3863. www.beachparks.com/isleofpalms.htm

Originally constructed 1,200 feet from the ocean, the land the Morris Island Lighthouse sits on today is submerged in water.

A group called Save the Lighthouse has been working since 1999 to coordinate the stabilization, erosion control and restoration of the lighthouse. So far, the group has raised more than $4.5 million for this purpose. 843-633-0099. www.savethelight.org

Kiawah Beachwalker Park Photo/Leslie Burden

Carriage Tours Carolina Polo & Carriage Co. The only carriage company in the city owned and operated by Charlestonians whose family has been in Charleston since the 1600s. 181 Church St., 16 Hayne St., Charleston.

843-577-6767. http://cpcc.com Classic Carriage Tours A carriage ride with Classic Carriage Tours will provide insight on the city of Charleston and a lesson in Southern culture.

10 Guignard St., Charleston. 843-853-3747. www.classiccarriage.com Old South Carriage Tours Guides dressed in Confederate uniforms will take you around the city, speaking of more than 300 years of Charleston’s history.

14 Anson St., Charleston. 843-723-9712. www.oldsouthcarriage.com Old Towne Carriage Co. Hop on a carriage ride that will take you through the historic market and past historic homes and buildings in a 25-30-block area.

20 Anson St., Charleston. 843-722-1315. www.oldtownecarriage.com Palmetto Carriage Works The oldest carriage company in Charleston, Palmetto Carriage Works covers a 30-block area of the historic district. Evening tours offered in the summer.

40 N. Market St., Charleston. 843-723-8145. www.carriagetour.com 56 | INTRO

This public beach is located on the west end of the private Kiawah Island.

The park includes dressing areas, restrooms, picnic tables, grills and beach chair rentals. Beachwalker Drive, Kiawah Island. 843-768-2395. www.ccprc.com

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Magnolia Plantation was founded in 1676 by the Drayton family. Tour the historic home and grounds, which includes Spanish moss-draped gardens, a black water swamp garden, slave cabins and a petting zoo. 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston. 800-3673517. www.magnoliaplantation.com.

Old City Market Open 365 days a year, the Old City Market consists of four open-air buildings that are filled with vendors and shoppers. At one end of the market sits Market Hall, a substantial building with a curved iron staircase. Located on Market Street between Meeting and East Bay streets. 843-724-3796. www.charlestoncity.info

Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

Built in 1771, this three-story building was an important part of South Carolina’s, and the nation’s, history. It was the place Home of the Charleston Farmer’s Market where, in 1776, South Carolina drafted its each Saturday from April through Defirst constitution and declared indepencember, Marion Square also hosts several dence from Great Britain. Beneath the Old events including the Charleston Wine + Exchange building is the Provost Dungeon.

Food Festival, Charleston Fashion Week and the Southeastern Wildlife Festival. The 122 East Bay St., Charleston. 843-727-2165 10–acre green space in downtown Charles- or 1-888- 763-0448. www.oldexchange.com ton is bordered by King, Calhoun and Meeting streets. www.charlestoncity.info Old Slave Mart Museum Once used as a slave auction gallery, the Old Slave Mart was constructed in 1859. Its Mepkin Abbey uses through the years ranged from a teneA former plantation perched on the bluffs of the Cooper River, Mepkin Abbey is now ment dwelling to an auto repair shop. The city of Charleston acquired the property in the home of a Trappist monastery with 1988 and now operates a museum here. a garden and chapel open to the public.

1098 Mepkin Abbey Road, Moncks Corner. 6 Chalmers St., Charleston, 843-9586467. www.charlestoncity.info 843-761-8509. www.mepkinabbey.org

Marion Square

Middleton Place This carefully-preserved 18th-century plantation offers a glimpse into the life of four generations of Middletons dating back to 1741. The House Museum, gardens and stableyard are open for tours. Middleton Place is also the location for several annual events including the Spoleto Festival finale.

4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston.

843-556-6020. www.middletonplace.org

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum The museum at Patriots Point is a state-run military museum that displays four World War II-era vessels and more than a dozen vintage aircraft. The aircraft carrier USS Yorktown is also the home to the Medal of Honor Society Museum. 40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant. 866-831-1720, 843- 884-2727. www.patriotspoint.org

guide

Photo/Leslie Burden

Philip Simmons Children’s Garden Philip Simmons, born in 1912, was a worldrenowned iron worker whose works include more than 500 pieces of ornamental wrought iron gates, fences, balconies and window grills. The Philip Simmons Children’s Garden celebrates the blacksmith’s artistic skill and social contributions. The garden is located at the corner of East Bay and Blake streets. 843-830-4674.

Powder Magazine Completed in 1713, the Powder Magazine was the oldest public building in South Carolina and may be the oldest surviving building in all of the former British colonies. It served as a military storage area for loose gun power until 1770 and has since served as a wine cellar, a print shop and a museum. 79 Cumberland St., Charleston. 843-722-9350. www.powdermag.org

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

Shem Creek Maritime Museum Located on the bank of historic Shem Creek, this outdoor exhibit offers a look at Charleston’s rich maritime heritage. 514 Mill St., Mount Pleasant. 843-849-9000.

South Carolina Aquarium The South Carolina Aquarium provides a look at the wildlife you’ll find in South

Carolina from the mountains to the sea. 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston.

843-720-1990. www.scaquarium.org

Summerville-Dorchester Museum This museum chronicles Dorchester County’s history. 100 E. Dotty Ave., Summerville.

843-875-9666. http://summervilledorchestermuseum.org

INTRO | 57

Nearby Getaways I

n the mood to explore? The Lowcountry’s location provides easy access to a host of interesting places.

Just about anything you would want to see — from majestic mountains and tranquil rivers, to swinging hotspots and quirky stores — is within a few hours’ drive. So gas up, roll down the windows and don’t forget to take the back roads.

Asheville, N.C. Nestled in what seems like a cupped hand of a valley is a town built by pioneering souls that holds tight to its free-thinking, artistic roots. Asheville attracts thousands of visitors each year with its mountain vistas, the Gilded Age splendor of the Biltmore mansion, an eclectic range of boutiques and a variety of global cuisine at restaurants that feature local (and often organic) ingredients. www.exploreasheville.com

Atlanta, Ga. The proud capital of the “New South” is a diverse and welcoming metropolitan area. Neighborhood enclaves, each with their own distinctive flair, hold a wealth of sights and attractions that range from pop (the Coca-Cola museum) to fine art (the High Museum of Art).

58 | INTRO

Shop boutiques or big malls, club hop into the wee hours or take in a Braves or Falcons game. www.atlanta.net

Charleston, S.C. This Lowcountry gem, settled in 1670 and South Carolina’s colonial capital, retains the charm of bygone days. Its stately mansions, churches, theaters and public buildings date back to the 18th century. Once one of the richest cities on the Eastern Seaboard, today it combines the traditional with the historic and provides some of the best restaurants, beaches, entertainment and shopping in America. Cruise ships depart the Charleston docks and historic plantations ring the city on the region’s creeks and rivers. www.charlestoncvb.com

Charlotte, N.C. Though the Queen City reigns over a bustling business scene, Charlotte has plenty of Southern charm with a strong dose of contemporary fine dining and a chic shopping scene. Rosedale Plantation offers visitors a chance to witness the pace and elegance of the past, as does Fourth Ward with its streets filled with fine specimens of Victorian archi-

Savannah, Ga.

tecture. Those preferring a more exciting pace will appreciate the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats, the NFL’s Carolina Panthers, as well as NASCAR races at Lowe’s Motor Speedway. www.charlottesgotalot.com

Columbia, S.C. From a high-energy college football game at the University of South Carolina to a lowkey float down the Saluda, Broad or Congaree rivers, the Palmetto State’s capital city offers something for every visitor. History buffs will appreciate Columbia’s historic homes and museums, and those who enjoy arts and culture will be amazed by the city’s theaters, galleries, dance companies, orchestras and festivals. Dining and nightlife options are plentiful, especially downtown in Five Points and the Vista. Columbia also boasts the annual state fair, a zoo and botanical garden, and nearby parks, lakes and rivers offer plenty of recreational opportunities. www.columbiacvb.com

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, N.C./Tenn.

Formed hundreds of millions of years ago, these mountains are some of the oldest in the world and are comprised of peaks that rise up over 6,000 feet. The park encom-

guide

passes more than 520,000 acres of forests, streams, rivers, waterfalls and hiking trails passing through valleys, peaks and forests with plenty of overlooks to take in scenic views. The park has an enormous variety of plants, trees, mammals, birds and fish — so many that the United Nations has designated the park an International Biosphere Reserve. www.nps.gov/grsm

Greenville, S.C. The Upstate is South Carolina’s only land of four true seasons. And its metropolitan environment, coupled with its pristine lakes and rivers nestled at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a favorite for cyclists, runners, hikers and water enthusiasts. Greenville’s downtown is renowned for its arts community, unique shopping and dining. Greenville’s crown jewel is Reedy River Falls Park. The falls, which powered textile mills in the 18th century and industrial sites in the 19th and 20th centuries, now comprise the centerpiece

of a vibrant entertainment and business district. www.greenvillecvb.com

Hilton Head Island, S.C. Hilton Head Island boasts nearly 30 golf courses nestled among lush pine and live oak forests that offer some of the most challenging holes on the East Coast.

Hilton Head Island is the largest barrier island off the Atlantic coast between Long Island and the Bahamas. And while it is known for its beautiful beaches and fantastic golf, it’s also known for its shopping — from outlet malls to local boutiques — and its restaurants. Hilton Head also includes a thriving arts and cultural scene and has the state’s second largest theater facility, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. www.hiltonheadisland.org

Myrtle Beach, S.C.

es, numerous nightlife and concert venues, as well as 60 miles of beaches. On the way, stop by Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark and display garden. www.visitmyrtlebeach.com

Savannah, Ga. This waterfront town will, no doubt, remind visitors of Charleston with its historic homes and lush gardens. Founded in 1733, Savannah was the site of many famous Revolutionary and Civil War battles. This history has been preserved and is celebrated along with the city’s vibrant arts and cultural scene. Its more than 20 city squares, monuments, parks, historic homes, churches and forts will appeal to history buffs of all ages. Don’t miss River Street with its waterfront park, quirky shops and varied restaurants. www.savannahvisit.com

Located about two hours north of Charleston via U.S. 17, Myrtle Beach offers visitors two outlet malls, more than 100 golf cours-

Myrtle Beach, S.C. INTRO | 59

Photo/Leslie Burden Photo/Leslie Burden

Calendar of Events Lowcountry Oyster Festival Each January, two tractor trailer loads of oysters – more than 65,000 pounds – are brought in for the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival. Special contests, live music and activities are scheduled throughout the day, including an oyster shucking contest, oyster eating contest and a contest between local chefs for the best oyster recipe.

Boone Hall Plantation, 843-805-3084. www.charlestonrestaurantassociation.com

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition Known for its world-class original art, diverse exhibits and animal demonstrations, the annual Southeastern Wildlife Exposition kicks off in February with approximately 120 artists and more than 350 exhibitors. The nation’s largest wildlife and nature event offers a variety of exhibits throughout Charleston, including its trademark conservation exhibits, birds of 60 | INTRO

prey and retriever demonstrations, and the new crowd favorite: Dock Dogs. Various locations, 843-723-1748. www.sewe.com

Charleston Wine + Food Festival Held each March, this festival celebrates the culinary history and culture of the Lowcountry. Foodies can enjoy more than 50 events during the four-day event, including a Sip and Stroll, a wine tasting and auction, and a gospel brunch. Marion Square is the central location for most activities. 843-7279998. www.charlestonwineandfood.com

Charleston Fashion Week During Charleston’s Fashion Week, Marion Square is transformed into a venue that rivals New York’s Bryant Park. The latest trends from local designers and boutique owners are featured during this annual fashion event held in March. www.charlestonfashionweek.com

Charleston International Antiques Show Featuring more than 30 of the nation’s most prominent antique dealers, the Charleston International Antiques Show is held each spring and has become a premier destination for antique collectors. 40 East Bay St., Charleston. 843-722-3405. www.historiccharleston.org

Summerville Flowertown Festival This three-day event is held each spring and organized by the Summerville Family YMCA. The festival includes a host of food vendors and more than 200 artisans from across the country, as well as a 10k run.

843-871-9622. www.summervilleymca.org

Annual Spring Festival of Houses & Gardens Some of Charleston’s finest historic homes and gardens are on display during the Historic Charleston Foundation’s Annual

guide

Photo/Leslie Burden

Opposite: Charleston Fashion Week.

Opposite Inset: Southeastern Wildlife Exposition.

Right: Chef Ben Berryhill of Red Drum demonstrates cooking risotto.

Spring Festival of Houses and Gardens.

Each Festival tour features eight to 10 properties dating from the American colonial period through the antebellum and Victorian years of architecture, to the early 20th century. 843-7223405. http://historiccharleston.org

Cooper River Bridge Run Held at the end of March or in early April each year, this event includes a 10k run across the Cooper River on the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. It begins in Mount Pleasant and ends in downtown Charleston. 843-792-1586. www.bridgerun.com

Family Circle Cup After 28 years in Hilton Head Island, the Family Circle Cup moved to a new home on Daniel Island in 2001. A partnership between the city of Charleston and Family Circle magazine helped build a state-of-the-art tennis facility that is not only used for the week-long tennis tournament each April, but is also open to the public and used as a venue for sporting and cultural events. 800-677-2293. www.familycirclecup.com

Piccolo Spoleto Piccolo Spoleto was created in 1979 to coincide with the international Spoleto Festival USA and primarily features artists from the Southeast. Held at a variety of locations in downtown Charleston. 843-724-7305. www.piccolospoleto.com

Caribbean arts and features music, visual art, storytelling, performances, crafts, children’s activities and more.

843-724-7305. www.mojafestival.com

Spoleto Festival USA

Annual Fall Tour of Homes & Gardens

Held each spring since 1977, this 17-day festival features visual art exhibits and more than 120 performances from opera to jazz music. 843-722-2764; Box office: 843-579-3100. www.spoletousa.org

Experience some of the region’s most historic homes and gardens. The tour also serves as a fundraiser for the Preservation Society and is held for five weeks, beginning in September. www.preservationsociety.org

MOJA Arts Festival The annual MOJA Arts Festival is a celebration of African American and

Taste of Charleston This three-day event, held each October,

showcases more than 40 area restaurants.

In addition to great food to sample, there is also an Iron Chef competition and an art walk. Held at Boone Hall Plantation. 843-5774030. www.charlestonrestaurantassociation.com

Holiday Festival of Lights Millions of sparkling lights at the James Island County Park will get you in the holiday spirit. When the event started in 1990, there were only 18 light displays. Now there are 2 million lights and 600 light displays. The festival is open from November to just after New Year’s. 843-795-4386. www.ccprc.com INTRO | 61

Quick Links

TRANSPORTATION

Edisto Island Museum

CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority)

Edisto Beach State Park

www.lincolnvillesc.com

www.ridecarta.com

www.southcarolinaparks.com

BellSouth

McClellanville

Charleston International Airport

Edisto Island Serpentarium

www.bellsouth.com

http://www.townofmcclellanville-sc.net/

www.chs-airport.com

www.edistoserpentarium.com

Home Telephone Company

Meggett

THINGS TO DO

Folly Beach State Park

www.hometelco.com

http://www.townofmeggettsc.org/

Knology

Moncks Corner

http://www.americanmilitarymuseum.org/

www.knology.com

www.townofmonckscorner.sc.gov/

CABLE

Mount Pleasant

Anna’s House & Garden Tour/ Ghost Walk

Fort Sumter

www.townofmountpleasant.com

www.ghostwalk.net

North Charleston

Audubon Swamp Garden

The International Center for Birds of Prey

E Ducation

TELEPHONE

Comcast

www.comcast.com

Knology

www.knology.com

Time Warner Cable

www.timewarnercable.com

ELECTRICITY AND NATURAL GAS Berkeley Electric Cooperative www.becsc.com

Edisto Electric Cooperative

Lincolnville

www.northcharleston.org

Rockville

www.townofrockville.com

Seabrook Island

www.townofseabrookisland.org

Sullivan’s Island

www.sullivansisland-sc.com

Summerville

www.summerville.sc.us

American Military Museum

http://www.magnoliaplantation.com/ gardens.html

http://edistomuseum.org/

www.ccprc.com

Fort Moultrie

www.nps.gov/fomo

www.nps.gov/fosu

www.thecenterforbirdsofprey.org

Boone Hall Plantations & Garden

Isle of Palms County Park

Carolina Heritage Outfitters

Magnolia Plantation

Carolina Ice Palace

Middleton Place

Caw Caw Interpretive Center

Morris Island Lighthouse Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

www.boonehallplantation.com

www.canoesc.com

www.carolinaicepalace.com

www.ccprc.com

www.ccprc.com

www.magnoliaplantation.com

www.middletonplace.org

www.savethelight.org

www.edistoelectric.com

COUNTY GOVERNMENTS

Santee Cooper

Berkeley County

Charleston Ghost and Graveyard Tours

www.santeecooper.com

http://www.berkeleycountysc.gov/

www.bulldogtours.com

South Carolina Electric & Gas

Charleston County

The Charleston Museum

Old Slave Mart Museum

www.sceg.com

www.charlestoncounty.org

www.charlestonmuseum.org

CITY GOVERNMENTS

Dorchester County

Charles Pinckney Historic Site

Old South Carriage Tours

www.dorchestercounty.net

www.nps.gov/chpi

Charleston

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Park

Palmetto Carriage Tours

Folly Beach

Berkeley County Chamber of Commerce

www.charlestoncity.info

www.follybeachsouthcarolina.org

Goose Creek

www.cityofgoosecreek.com

www.bcoc.com

Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce

Hanahan

www.charlestonchamber.net

Hollywood

Greater Dorchester – Summerville Chamber of Commerce

www.cityofhanahan.com

www.townofhollywood.org

Isle of Palms

http://www.iop.net/

www.gsdcchamber.org

http://www.southcarolinaparks.com/ park-finder/state-park/1575.aspx

Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry www.explorecml.org

The Citadel Museum

www.citadel.edu/museum

The Confederate Museum

www.csa-scla.org/articles/ConfederateMuseum.htm

Cypress Gardens

www.cypressgardens.info

Kiawah Island

www.kiawahisland.org 62 | INTRO

www.oldexchange.com

www.charlestoncity.info

www.oldsouthcarriagetours.com

www.carriagetour.com

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum www.patriotspoint.org

South Carolina Aquarium www.scaquarium.org

Arts The Actors’ Theatre of South Carolina www.actorstheatreofsc.org

American Theater

www.pphgcharleston.com

welcome Carolina Galleries

www.carolinagalleries.com

Charleston Ballet Theatre www.charlestonballet.org

Charleston Stage

www.charlestonstage.com

Charleston Symphony Orchestra www.charlestonsymphony.com

City Gallery at Waterfront Park www.charlestoncity.info

Flowertown Players

www.flowertownplayers.org

Footlight Players Theatre http://footlightplayers.net/

French Quarter Gallery Association

www.frenchquarterarts.com

Gibbes Museum of Art www.gibbesmuseum.org

The Have Nots! Comedy Improv http://theatre99.com/

MOJA Arts Festival www.mojafestival.com

North Charleston City Gallery www.northcharleston.org

Spoleto Festival USA/Piccolo Spoleto www.spoletousa.com www.piccolospoleto.com

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Berkeley County School District www.berkeley.k12.sc.us

Charleston County School District www.ccsdschools.com

Dorchester County School District 2 www.dorchester2.k12.sc.us

Dorchester County School District 4 www.dorchester4.k12.sc.us

CHARTER SCHOOLS Charleston Development Academy

www.charlestondevelopmentacademy.org

East Cooper Montessori Charter School

www.montessoricharterschool.com

James Island Charter High School

Nativity School

Lowcountry Graduate Center

Northside Christian School

Medical University of South Carolina

www.nativity-school.com

www.northsideministries.com/ncs

www.jicharterhigh.org

Northwood Academy

Orange Grove Elementary Charter School

Pinewood Preparatory School

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Porter-Gaud School

Addlestone Hebrew Academy

Riverpointe Christian Academy

www.ogecs.com

www.addlestone.org

Archibald Rutledge Academy

www.archibaldrutledgeacademy.com

Ashley Hall

www.ashleyhall.org

Bishop England High School

www.northwoodacademy.com

www.pinewoodprep.com

www.portergaud.edu

www.riverbendchristian.org

St. John Catholic School www.saintjohncatholicsc.org

St. John’s Christian Academy www.sjcacavaliers.com

St. Paul’s Academy

www.lowcountrygradcenter.org

www.musc.edu

Southern Wesleyan University Adult & Graduate Studies www.swu.edu

Strayer University www.strayer.edu

Trident Technical College www.tridenttech.edu

Virginia College www.vc.edu

Webster University — Charleston Metropolitan Campus www.webster.edu/charleston

www.stpaulsacademy.org

HOSPITALS

Summerville Catholic School

Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital

www.summervillecatholic.org

www.rsfh.com

Trident Academy

East Cooper Medical Center

www.tridentacademy.com

www.eastcoopermedctr.com

www.charlestoncatholic.com

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Charleston

Charleston Christian School

The Art Institute of Charleston

www.charlestonchristian.org

www.artinstitutes.edu/charleston

Charleston Collegiate School

Charleston School of Law

www.behs.com

Blessed Sacrament School www.scbss.org

Cathedral Academy

www.cathedralacademy.com

The Charleston Catholic School

www.healthsouthcharleston.com

Kindred Hospital Charleston www.khcharleston.com

www.charlestoncollegiate.org

www.charlestonlaw.org

Charleston Day School

Charleston Southern University

Medical University of South Carolina Medical Center

www.charlestondayschool.org

www.charlestonsouthern.edu

www.muschealth.com

Christ Our King-Stella Maris School

The Citadel

Moncks Corner Medical Center

www.coksm.org

Coastal Christian Preparatory School www.coastalchristian.org

The Cooper School www.thecooperschool.org

First Baptist School of Charleston www.fbschool.org

Mason Preparatory School

www.citadel.edu

The Citadel Graduate College

www.tridenthealthsystem.com

Mount Pleasant Hospital

www.citadel.edu/graduatecollege

www.rsfh.com

College of Charleston

Roper Hospital

www.cofc.edu

www.rsfh.com/roper

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Roper Rehabilitation Hospital

www.erau.edu/charleston

The Graduate School of the College of Charleston

www.masonprep.org

http://gradschool.cofc.edu

Montessori School of Johns Island

Limestone College

www.rsfh.com

Summerville Medical Center www.tridenthealthsystem.com

Trident Medical Center

www.tridenthealthsystem.com

www.limestone.edu

montessorischoolofjohnsisland.com INTRO | 63

17

26

78

17A

Berkeley County

78

Dorchester County

Summerville

Goose Creek

17A

17A 52

61

17

165

Hanahan

33 41

North Charleston

17 7

642

526

Daniel Island

26

Mt. Pleasant 17

Ravenel

West Ashley

17

699

Isle of Palms

Charleston Sullivan's Island

30

Charleston County

162

517

703

James Island

Atlantic Ocean

164 700

Johns Island

171

Meggett Folly Beach Kiawah Island

174

Newcomer Information Seabrook Island

TELEPHONE BellSouth 888-757-6500

www.bellsouth.com

Home Telephone Company 843-899-1111 www.hometelco.com

Edisto Electric Cooperative 800-433-3292

Town of Moncks Corner 843-719-7900

City of Folly Beach 843-513-1832

Santee Cooper 843-761-8000

Town of Mount Pleasant 843-884-8518

City of Goose Creek 843-797-6220

South Carolina Electric & Gas

City of North Charleston 843-745-1026

City of Isle of Palms 843-886-6148

Town of Sullivan’s Island 843-883-3198

James Island Public Service District 843-795-9060

www.edistoelectric.com

www.santeecooper.com

800-251-7234

Knology 843-225-1000

www.sceg.com

CABLE

City of Charleston 843-724-7364

www.knology.com

GARBAGE

www.townofmonckscorner.sc.gov

www.townofmountpleasant.com

www.northcharleston.org

www.sullivansisland-sc.com

Town of Summerville 843-851-5210

Comcast 800-266-2278

www.charlestoncity.info

Knology 843-225-1000

www.cityofgoosecreek.com

WATER AND SEWER

City of Hanahan 843-529-3413

Time Warner Cable 866-892-7201

www.cityofhanahan.com

Berkeley County Water & Sanitation Authority 843-572-4400

ELECTRICITY AND NATURAL GAS

www.iop.net

Berkeley Electric Cooperative 843-761-8200

James Island Public Service District 843-795-9060

www.comcast.com

www.knology.com

www.timewarnercable.com

www.becsc.com

City of Goose Creek 843-824-2200

City of Isle of Palms 843-886-8956

www.jipsd.org

www.summerville.sc.us

http://www.bcwsa.com/

Charleston Water System 843-727-6800 www.charlestonwater.com

Dorchester County Water Authority 843-563-0075, 843-832-0075 www.dorchestercounty.net

64 | INTRO

www.cityoffollybeach.com

www.cityofgoosecreek.com

www.iopwsc.com

www.jipsd.org

Town of Moncks Corner 843-719-7900

www.townofmonckscorner.sc.gov

Town of Mount Pleasant 843-884-8518

www.townofmountpleasant.com

St. John’s Water Co. 843-559-0186 Town of Sullivan’s Island 843-883-3947 www.sullivansisland-sc.com

Town of Summerville 843-871-0810 www.summerville.sc.us